What is the primary purpose of a fable?

The primary purpose of a fable is to convey a moral lesson through a short story. Fables often feature animals with human traits, and by illustrating their actions and the consequences that follow, these stories teach important life lessons about behavior, ethics, and decision-making. The moral is typically stated at the end, making it clear what lesson the reader is meant to learn. This unique format, focusing on brevity and meaning, distinguishes fables from other types of narratives, such as historical accounts or adventure stories. The incorporation of anthropomorphized characters allows for engaging storytelling while still emphasizing the core message about virtues and vices.