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A cautionary tale or moral tale[1] is a tale told in folklore to warn its listener of a danger. There are three essential parts to a cautionary tale, though they can be introduced in a large variety of ways. First, a taboo or prohibition is stated: some act, location, or thing is said to be dangerous.[citation needed] Then, the narrative itself is told: someone disregarded the warning and performed the forbidden act. Finally, the violator comes to an unpleasant fate, which is frequently related in expansive and grisly detail.
- ^ Burlingham, Cynthia (1997). "Picturing Childhood. The Evolution of the Illustrated Children's Book". Grunwald Center for the Graphic Arts, University of California, Los Angeles Library Department of Special Collections.