What characterizes a 'folk tale'?

A folk tale is characterized by its roots in popular culture and its method of transmission, which is primarily oral. This means that folk tales often begin as community stories, shared through generations rather than written down by a single, identifiable author. The storytelling aspect allows these tales to evolve as they are retold, often adapting to the culture and context of the audience. While some folk tales may contain moral lessons or elements of history, their defining feature is the oral tradition and communal nature of their existence. This distinguishes them from written stories or factual accounts, as they are not bound by authorship or strict truthfulness but instead reflect the values, beliefs, and experiences of the cultures that tell them.