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What is a story that uses immoral aspects to give a moral value in the end called?

English Language & Usage Asked on October 1, 2020

Is there a specific or related word for when a story illustrates the doing of bad and unlawful things to reveal a moral value beneath it?
For example- a story about a person committing suicide and showing that if anyone had talked to the person, they wouldn’t have committed suicide. Or a person with a mental disorder who didn’t receive any help from others and was driven insane. I would appreciate any words to describe such a story or an event, thanks!

One Answer

Not a single word but it's usually called a cautionary tale

a story that gives a warning

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/cautionary-tale

A cautionary tale is a tale told in folklore, to warn its listener of a danger. There are three essential parts to a cautionary tale, though they can be introduced in a large variety of ways. First, a taboo or prohibition is stated: some act, location, or thing is said to be dangerous. Then, the narrative itself is told: someone disregarded the warning and performed the forbidden act. Finally, the violator comes to an unpleasant fate, which is frequently related in expansive and grisly detail.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cautionary_tale

I would go with the more general dictionary definition. I'm not conviced that the tale has to come from folklore although of course it may.

Correct answer by chasly - supports Monica on October 1, 2020

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