Which narrative form is specifically designed to impart a moral lesson?

Fables are a specific form of narrative that is designed to impart a moral lesson, often using animals as characters to convey the message. These short stories typically illustrate a clear moral at the end, making it easier for readers, especially children, to understand the ethical or practical lesson being conveyed. The simplicity and directness of fables allow them to be memorable and impactful, fostering moral reasoning in the audience.

In contrast, legends often focus on historical events or figures and may contain exaggerated elements that contribute to cultural identity but do not prioritize moral teaching in the same way. Myths are primarily designed to explain natural phenomena, human behavior, or the origins of society, and while they may contain moral elements, it is not their central purpose. Folktales encompass a broad category of traditional stories that reflect the beliefs and values of a culture but may not be specifically crafted with a moral lesson in mind.

Thus, fables stand out as the narrative form uniquely intended to impart clear moral lessons, making them an essential tool in teaching ethical principles.