What distinguishes a fable?

A fable is characterized by its use of talking animals as characters, which serves as a means to convey life lessons or moral principles. This storytelling technique engages readers or listeners while imparting important lessons about human behavior, ethics, and values. The anthropomorphism of animals allows the narrative to reflect human traits and situations, making the moral lessons more relatable and memorable.

Other options do not accurately describe a fable. While historical events may inform some stories, they do not define the structure or purpose of a fable. Fables are not primarily centered on romantic themes or written exclusively in verse, as their primary function is to provide a moral lesson rather than to engage in romantic storytelling or poetic form. Thus, the presence of talking animals and the teaching of a moral are what distinctly qualify a narrative as a fable.