tale type

A tale type is a classification used by folklorists to categorize stories that share common plot structures, themes, or motifs, regardless of their cultural origin. Think of it like labeling different versions of similar stories—such as fairy tales or folktales—that have been told in various countries but follow a recognizable pattern. For example, the "Cinderella" story appears in many cultures with different details but retains the core elements. Recognizing tale types helps us understand how stories evolve and influence each other across different societies.