Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) Practice Test

The description of literary forms that involve outlandish or highly improbable actions or events aligns well with tall tales. Tall tales are a specific type of folklore characterized by exaggerated and incredible elements. These narratives often feature larger-than-life characters and events that stretch the truth to a point that is implausible, creating a humorous or entertaining effect.

While fantasy, myths, and fables each contain elements of the extraordinary or moral storytelling, tall tales are distinct due to their emphasis on exaggeration and absurdity, often rooted in American culture. This focus on improbable situations and impressively exaggerated characters, such as Paul Bunyan or Pecos Bill, solidifies the connection between tall tales and the question about literary forms that depict outlandish events.