Motif Index of Folk-Literature

The Motif-Index of Folk-Literature is a comprehensive catalog that organizes recurring themes, symbols, and story elements found in folklore worldwide. Created by scholar Stith Thompson, it acts like a library index for myths, legends, and folk tales, helping researchers identify how specific motifs—such as magical objects or hero quests—appear across cultures. This system makes it easier to study connections, cultural exchanges, and common storytelling patterns, revealing shared human experiences and creative expressions throughout history and geography.