Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

What is a characteristic feature of a 'fable'?

1. Lengthy, abstract stories

2. Animal characters with moral lessons

3. A mix of poetry and drama

4. Complex plot structures

The correct answer is: Animal characters with moral lessons

A key characteristic of a fable is the use of animal characters to convey moral lessons. Fables often feature anthropomorphized animals—characters with human traits and behavior—who embark on brief narratives that illustrate ethical principles or reveal truths about human behavior. The simplicity of the story allows for easy understanding and retention of the moral lesson. This concise conveyance of wisdom is what makes fables effective educational tools, particularly in teaching values to children. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the essential nature of a fable. Lengthy, abstract stories are more characteristic of epic tales or novels, while a mix of poetry and drama suggests a different literary form altogether. Furthermore, complex plot structures are generally not a hallmark of fables, which tend to be straightforward and focused on a singular lesson or theme.