Legends

Unlike myths and fables, legends have human characters. As with myths the characters often have special abilities or strengths. They use these characteristics to solve a problem or to win a challenge. The characters or events of legends are based on some fact. Many popular legends originated from Greek literature where characters were thrust into heroic battles or adventurous quests.

As with most narratives, legends have characters, plots, and settings. Legends tend to have more characters and greater plot development than do myths and fables. The language used to describe characters and events is direct; yet, it is also more descriptive and lofty. Many of today’s tales come from the legend tradition.