The stories gave people in the area a chance to exchange information as well as ideas. It also was a way to show how people should conduct themselves during their everyday lives. Beliefs of the time were present, such as traditions and morals. Sometimes, these messages could change or become mixed as to their actual meaning.
Themes were an important feature to any tale but not seen through the plot alone. The consequences for the character's actions also incorporate the theme. Good versus evil as well as rich and poor show up in numerous variations. One type of theme seen is an adventure, such as journeys, to illustrate a point. Another might present the supernatural world and its relationship to the real world through stories showing the interaction between people with ghosts.
Traditional tales usually take place in certain settings that are real, imaginary or a combination of both. Reality settings covered locations, such as forests, castles and cottages in remote areas. Imaginary places often provided a way to present more complex ideas. There are only a few plots in use for the standard tale. Many follow the storyline that one person is happy; something happens that jeopardizes the situation; a resolution is presented and the tale ends with everybody living happily ever after. Some examples of plot points include unused or misused wishes.
Characters are significant aspects. They can range from regular people who have redeemable flaws to superhumans with special powers. A majority of tales feature a male as the lead character because of the society or culture from where the stories originated. Examples of other characters can be monsters, animals, parents, royalty and even evil counterparts. Characteristics may become clearer as the story progresses if they were not presented in the character's introduction.
Tales from Europe are more likely to use the numbers three and seven. By using the numbers, storytellers organized repeating plots. One use of this technique is seen in the story of "Goldilocks and the Three Bears."