What Are The 7 Types Of Stories [Professional Critic View]

1. Introduction

Stories have been around since the dawn of civilization. They are a way for us to make sense of the world around us, to share our experiences, and to express our creativity. In this article, we will explore the different types of stories, from ancient myths to modern flash fiction. We will look at examples of each type, and discuss how these stories can be used to engage readers and create powerful experiences. Finally, we will provide some resources for further exploration. So, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of stories!

2. Definition of a Story

A story is a narrative, or account, of a series of events that have been related in words, sounds, or images. It is usually told to entertain or inform, and can range from the simplest folk tale to the most complex literary works. Stories have been told for thousands of years, and are a fundamental part of human culture.

Stories can be told in many different forms, including oral, written, and visual. They can be based on real events, or entirely fictional. They can be told in the first person or third person point of view. They can be told in a linear fashion, or they can have a non-linear narrative structure.

Stories can have many different purposes. Some stories are meant to entertain, while others are meant to educate. Some stories are meant to inspire, while others are meant to warn. Stories can also be used to explore complex ideas, or to reflect on the human condition.

Stories can be told in a variety of ways, from traditional oral storytelling to more modern forms such as film, television, and video games. Stories can also be expressed in other forms such as music, dance, and visual art.

Stories can be told in many different genres, from adventure and fantasy to horror and romance. They can be told in a variety of styles, from the simple to the complex. They can be long or short, humorous or serious.

Stories can have many different themes, from the epic and heroic to the mundane and everyday. They can explore a variety of topics, from love and loss to war and peace.

Stories can be used to explore a variety of emotions, from joy and wonder to fear and sadness. They can also be used to explore complex ideas and to reflect on the human condition.

Stories can be told in many different languages, and can be translated into other languages. They can be told in a variety of formats, from books and plays to songs and movies.

Stories can be told in many different ways, but all stories have one thing in common: they are meant to be shared.

3. Types of Stories

Stories have been around since the dawn of time, and they come in many shapes and sizes. Whether it’s a classic fairytale, a modern-day comic book, or a personal anecdote, stories have the power to captivate us, transport us to another world, and teach us valuable lessons.

When it comes to stories, there are many different types that have been used throughout the years. Here are seven of the most popular types of stories:

A narrative is a type of story that follows a sequence of events and is usually told from the point of view of a narrator. It can be written in either the first or third person, and the narrator can be either a character in the story or an outside observer. Narratives can be either fictional or based on real-life events.

A fable is a type of story that usually involves animals or other mythical creatures as characters and is meant to teach a moral lesson. Fables often feature talking animals or other supernatural elements and often have a moral lesson at the end of the story.

A myth is a type of story that is based on traditional beliefs and is meant to explain natural phenomena or the origins of certain customs and beliefs. Myths often feature gods and goddesses and other supernatural elements.

An allegory is a type of story that uses symbolic characters and events to represent abstract ideas or moral principles. Allegories are often used to make a political or social statement.

A parable is a type of story that uses simple characters and events to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. Parables often feature everyday people and situations and are meant to teach a moral lesson.

A tall tale is a type of story that exaggerates the truth in order to make a point. Tall tales often feature larger-than-life characters and events and are meant to be humorous.

Flash fiction is a type of story that is very short, usually no more than a few hundred words. Flash fiction often features a twist at the end and is meant to be read quickly.

– Narrative

A narrative is a story that is told or written to entertain, inform, or educate an audience. It is usually based on real or imagined events and typically contains characters, a setting, and a plot. Narratives are often used to explore ideas, values, and beliefs, and can be found in many forms, including books, movies, plays, and even oral storytelling.

The narrative structure is one of the oldest and most popular forms of storytelling. This structure typically follows the same pattern, beginning with an introduction, followed by a rising action, a climax, and a resolution. The introduction introduces the characters and the setting, while the rising action is the main conflict and the events that lead up to the climax. The climax is the most exciting and intense part of the story, and the resolution is the conclusion.

Narratives can be divided into two main types: fiction and non-fiction. Fiction narratives are stories that are created out of the imagination, while non-fiction narratives are based on real events. Both types of narratives can be further divided into subcategories, such as adventure, romance, horror, and fantasy.

Narratives are often used to explore themes, such as love, courage, and morality. They can also be used to explore a specific time period or culture, or to provide insight into a person’s life. Many authors use narrative to convey a message or to share a personal experience.

No matter what type of narrative is being told, the storyteller must use effective techniques to capture the audience’s attention and keep them engaged. This can include using vivid descriptions, creating suspense, and developing interesting characters.

Narratives are a powerful way to explore ideas, values, and beliefs, and to entertain and educate an audience. They can be found in many forms, from books and movies, to plays and oral storytelling. No matter what type of narrative is being told, the storyteller must use effective techniques to capture the audience’s attention and keep them engaged.

– Fable

A fable is a type of story that typically features animals, plants, inanimate objects, or forces of nature that are anthropomorphized (given human qualities), and that illustrates a moral lesson. Fables are often designed to teach a lesson about life, nature, and human behavior. They often feature a protagonist and antagonist who represent different sides of a moral dilemma.

Fables are usually short stories, often with only a few characters and a few scenes. They often use simple language and straightforward plots to illustrate a moral lesson. Fables typically have a moral at the end of the story, which is meant to teach the reader a lesson.

Fables can be traced back to ancient Greece, where they were used by Aesop to teach moral lessons. Aesop’s Fables, which are still popular today, are a collection of stories featuring animals, plants, and other inanimate objects that are given human qualities. These stories are thought to have been passed down orally for centuries before being written down and published in the 5th century BCE.

Fables often feature talking animals, such as in the classic story of The Tortoise and the Hare. In this story, the hare is overconfident and takes a nap during a race against the tortoise, who slowly but steadily makes his way to the finish line and wins the race. This story teaches the moral lesson that slow and steady wins the race.

Fables can also feature plants, such as in The Oak and the Reed. In this story, the oak tree is strong and proud, while the reed is weak and humble. When a storm comes, the oak is uprooted, while the reed bends but does not break. This story teaches the moral lesson that strength is not always the best quality to have.

Fables can also feature inanimate objects, such as in The Wind and the Sun. In this story, the wind and the sun have a contest to see who can make a traveler take off his coat. The wind tries to blow the coat off, but the traveler holds on tightly. The sun then shines, and the traveler takes off his coat because it is too hot. This story teaches the moral lesson that kindness is more powerful than force.

Fables are a great way to teach moral lessons to children and adults alike. They are often short and simple, and they use vivid imagery to illustrate a moral lesson. Fables can be used to teach lessons about life, nature, and human behavior.

– Myth

A myth is a traditional story that is used to explain the beliefs and customs of a culture. Myths are often used to explain natural phenomena and to provide moral guidance. Myths are usually set in a supernatural or mythical world, and they often involve gods, goddesses, and other mythical creatures. Myths are usually seen as being rooted in truth, even if the events described in them are not real.

One of the most famous myths is the Greek myth of Zeus and Prometheus. In this myth, Zeus is the king of the gods and Prometheus is a Titan who steals fire from the gods and gives it to humans. This myth explains why humans have fire and how it was given to them.

Another famous myth is the Norse myth of Thor and Loki. In this myth, Thor is the god of thunder and Loki is a trickster god who causes trouble for the other gods. This myth explains why thunder and storms occur and why there is chaos in the world.

The Chinese myth of the Jade Emperor is also popular. In this myth, the Jade Emperor is the ruler of heaven and earth and he is responsible for creating the world. This myth explains why the world is the way it is and why humans have to obey certain rules.

Myths are stories that are rooted in ancient traditions and are passed down through generations. They are often used to explain natural phenomena and to provide moral guidance. Myths are usually set in a supernatural or mythical world, and they often involve gods, goddesses, and other mythical creatures. Examples of myths include the Greek myth of Zeus and Prometheus, the Norse myth of Thor and Loki, and the Chinese myth of the Jade Emperor.

– Allegory

An allegory is a type of story that uses figurative language to convey a deeper moral or spiritual meaning. It typically uses characters, symbols, or events to represent abstract concepts or ideas. Allegories often contain a moral lesson or message that is implied rather than stated outright.

The term “allegory” comes from the Greek word “allēgoría,” which means “speaking otherwise.” This type of story has been around since ancient times, and is still used in literature and film today.

An allegory can be used to illustrate a moral or spiritual truth. It often uses symbolism to represent abstract concepts, such as good and evil, love and hate, or life and death. For example, the classic novel Animal Farm by George Orwell is an allegory of the Russian Revolution. Each character and event in the novel symbolizes a different aspect of the revolution.

Allegories can also be used to explore complex philosophical or social issues. For example, the novel The Allegory of the Cave by Plato is an exploration of the nature of knowledge and reality. The characters in the story represent different levels of understanding, from the unenlightened prisoners in the cave to the philosopher who is able to see the true nature of reality.

Allegories can also be used to explore religious themes. For example, the Bible contains many allegories, such as the parable of the Prodigal Son, which is a story about forgiveness and redemption.

Allegories are often used in literature, art, and film to make a statement or convey a message. They can be used to explore complex themes, illustrate moral lessons, or simply entertain.

No matter what the purpose of the allegory is, it is sure to leave readers with something to think about.

– Parable

A parable is a type of story that conveys a moral lesson or spiritual lesson through the use of symbolism. Parables are often used in religious teachings and are used to illustrate a point or teach a lesson. Parables are typically short stories with a clear moral or spiritual lesson, and often feature animals, plants, inanimate objects, or forces of nature that act as characters in the story.

A parable is different from a fable in that a fable typically features talking animals or plants as characters, while a parable does not. The characters in a parable are often symbolic and represent a larger idea or concept. Parables are also different from allegories in that an allegory is a story with a more complex moral or spiritual lesson.

The most famous parable is the Parable of the Good Samaritan, which is found in the Bible. In this parable, a traveler is robbed and left for dead on the side of the road. He is passed by a priest, a Levite, and a Samaritan, each of whom refuse to help him. Finally, the Samaritan stops and helps the man. This parable is used to teach the lesson that we should be kind and help those in need, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Another famous parable is the Parable of the Prodigal Son, which is also found in the Bible. In this parable, a father has two sons. The younger son asks his father for his inheritance and then leaves home and squanders the money. He eventually returns home and his father welcomes him back with open arms. This parable is used to teach the lesson that we should be forgiving and merciful to those who have wronged us.

Parables are also used in literature and other forms of storytelling. One example of a parable in literature is the Parable of the Sower, which is found in the book of Matthew. In this parable, a farmer sows seeds on different types of soil. The seeds that are sown on good soil produce a good crop, while the seeds that are sown on bad soil do not produce anything. This parable is used to teach the lesson that the results of our efforts depend on the conditions in which we work.

Parables can also be found in popular culture. For example, the popular movie The Matrix is an allegorical parable about the human condition. The characters in the movie represent different aspects of human life, and the story is used to illustrate the idea that we can choose to live in a world of illusion or a world of truth.

Parables are an effective way to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. They are often short stories that feature symbolic characters, and they can be found in religious teachings, literature, and popular culture. By using parables, we can convey a message in an interesting and engaging way that is easy to remember and understand.

– Tall Tale

A tall tale is a type of story that is often exaggerated and often focuses on a heroic character. It is a form of folklore that is typically used to tell a humorous story with a moral lesson. Tall tales are often based on real people and events, but the details are often exaggerated to the point of being unbelievable.

Tall tales are often used to teach lessons about the power of imagination and the importance of not taking everything at face value. They are also used to illustrate the power of storytelling and how it can be used to make the mundane seem extraordinary.

The main character of a tall tale is usually a larger-than-life hero who performs amazing feats. These feats are often impossible or exaggerated and are often used to illustrate the power of the hero. Examples of tall tales include Paul Bunyan, Pecos Bill, and Johnny Appleseed.

The characters in tall tales often have exaggerated physical characteristics, such as superhuman strength or incredible speed. They also often have special abilities or skills that make them stand out from the crowd. These characters are often portrayed as brave and heroic, and they are often seen as role models for children.

Tall tales are often humorous, and they often use exaggeration and hyperbole to make their point. They also often contain elements of fantasy, such as talking animals or magical powers. The stories usually contain a moral lesson, and they often end with the hero triumphing over evil.

Tall tales are a form of folklore that has been around for centuries. They are often used to entertain and educate, and they can be a great way to teach children about the power of imagination and the importance of using critical thinking.

– Flash Fiction

Flash fiction is a type of short story that typically tells a complete story in fewer than 1,000 words. It is a relatively new form of storytelling, having only been around for a few decades. Despite its brevity, flash fiction can still be an incredibly powerful and effective form of storytelling.

Flash fiction is a brief but complete story that typically takes no longer than a few minutes to read. It is usually written in the third person and told in a linear fashion. Flash fiction often relies on vivid imagery and strong emotions to convey its message. It often has a twist or surprise ending, as well as a moral or lesson.

Writing flash fiction can be a great way to practice your storytelling skills. Because of its brevity, you can complete a story in a relatively short amount of time. It can also help you become more creative and inventive with your writing. Flash fiction can also be used to explore different genres and experiment with different writing styles.

When writing flash fiction, it is important to remember to keep it concise and to the point. Start by brainstorming ideas and writing a short outline. Then, you can begin writing your story. Make sure to include vivid imagery and strong emotions to bring your story to life. Finally, make sure to end with a twist or surprise.

There are many great examples of flash fiction out there. One example is “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson. This story tells the story of a small town that holds a lottery each year, with a dark and unexpected ending. Another example is “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allen Poe. This story tells the story of a man who is haunted by the sound of a beating heart.

Flash fiction is a great way to practice your storytelling skills and get creative with your writing. It is a brief but complete story that can be written in a relatively short amount of time. It is important to remember to keep it concise and to the point, include vivid imagery and strong emotions, and to end with a twist or surprise. With some practice, you can become a master of flash fiction.

4. Examples of Each Type

A narrative is a story that is told in chronological order and usually revolves around a single protagonist. A classic example of a narrative is the novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. In this novel, the protagonist, Jay Gatsby, is a wealthy man who is in love with a woman from his past. Throughout the novel, Gatsby strives to win her affections and make her his own.

A fable is a short story that usually teaches a moral lesson. One of the most famous fables is “The Tortoise and the Hare” by Aesop. In this story, a hare and a tortoise compete in a race. The hare is confident that he will win because he is much faster than the tortoise. However, the tortoise ends up winning the race because he is persistent and never gives up. The moral of this story is that slow and steady wins the race.

A myth is a story that is based on legend or folklore and is used to explain a natural phenomenon or cultural practice. One of the most famous myths is the legend of Zeus. In this myth, Zeus is the ruler of the gods and is responsible for creating the world. He is also responsible for punishing those who disobey him, such as Prometheus, who stole fire from the gods and gave it to mankind.

An allegory is a story that uses characters and events to represent abstract ideas or moral principles. One of the most famous allegories is “Animal Farm” by George Orwell. In this novel, the characters are animals who are living on a farm and represent various aspects of human society. For example, the pigs represent the ruling class and the other animals represent the working class. The novel is an allegory for the Russian Revolution and the rise of communism.

A parable is a short story that is used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. One of the most famous parables is “The Prodigal Son” from the Bible. In this story, a father has two sons. The younger son asks for his inheritance and leaves home. He eventually squanders all of his money and returns home. The father welcomes him back with open arms, illustrating the concept of unconditional love and forgiveness.

A tall tale is a story that is exaggerated and often includes larger-than-life characters and events. One of the most famous tall tales is “Paul Bunyan” by James Stevens. In this story, Paul Bunyan is a giant lumberjack who is said to have created the Great Lakes with his ax. He is also said to have been so strong that he could move mountains with his bare hands.

Flash fiction is a type of story that is usually very short, usually no more than 1,000 words. One of the most famous flash fiction stories is “The Lady, or the Tiger?” by Frank Stockton. In this story, a princess must choose between two doors. Behind one door is a tiger and behind the other is the woman her lover is in love with. The story ends without revealing which door she chose, leaving the reader to imagine what happened.

5. Conclusion

Stories have been around since the dawn of time, and have served as a way for us to communicate and connect with one another. The seven types of stories – narrative, fable, myth, allegory, parable, tall tale, and flash fiction – are all unique in their own ways, and each provide a different way of conveying a message or a moral.

Narratives are stories that are told in a linear fashion, with a beginning, middle, and end. Fables are often used to teach a moral lesson, while myths are stories that explain natural phenomena and the origins of a culture. Allegories are stories that use symbolism to convey a deeper meaning, and parables are stories that are used to teach spiritual lessons. Tall tales are exaggerated stories that are used to entertain, and flash fiction is a form of writing that is extremely brief.

No matter what type of story you choose to tell, it is important to remember that stories are powerful tools that can be used to connect with others and to convey messages. With the right story, you can create a lasting impression and inspire others to think differently. So whether you choose to tell a narrative, a fable, a myth, an allegory, a parable, a tall tale, or a flash fiction, you can be sure that your story will make an impact.

6. Resources

Are you looking for more information on the different types of stories? Here are some great resources to help you out!

Story Types: A Comprehensive Guide – This comprehensive guide from Scribendi provides an overview of the seven types of stories and includes examples of each type.
The Different Types of Stories: A Guide – This guide from The Writers Store provides an overview of the different types of stories and explores the various elements of each type.
The 7 Story Types – This article from StoryBrand provides an overview of the seven types of stories and explains how to use each type to create compelling stories.
Types of Storytelling – This guide from TCK Publishing provides an overview of the different types of stories and explains how to create stories that will engage your audience.
Storytelling: Types of Stories – This article from Gotham Writers provides an overview of the different types of stories and explains how to use each type to create powerful stories.

By exploring these resources, you’ll be able to gain a better understanding of the different types of stories and how to use them to create engaging stories.