Folklore is a body of stories that reflect a culture's beliefs, traditions, and values. Often the characters in folktales are real people. When a folktale tells of the actions of a real person, its purpose is to reveal some admired quality of that person's character. Other folktales use characters that are larger than life to pass on truths that are valued by the culture. Characters like Annie Oakley and Pecos Bill are two examples from the American culture.
      Folktales have been told for centuries, and all cultures have them. At one time, all folklore was part of an oral tradition and was passed on by word of mouth. Today, folklore finds its way into poetry, song lyrics, and fables.
       The folktale below is an American tale about George Washington. What quality of George Washington's character is the tale trying to highlight? Why?

George Washington's father had a beautiful garden. In his garden there were many flowers and trees. His favorite tree was the cherry tree. He liked the pink flowers in the spring and the sweet, red fruit in the summer.       George was just a little boy. He was six years old. He had a new ax, and he liked to cut things in the garden. One day, he cut down the cherry tree by mistake. When he saw the cherry tree on the ground, he felt very badly.       Later that day, George's father saw the tree on the ground. He was angry. He called his son. "George," he asked, "Do you know who cut down my cherry tree?"       George was afraid because his father was angry, but he wanted to tell the truth. "Father," George said, "I cannot tell a lie. I cut down the cherry tree." George's father took the boy in his arms and hugged him. He was happy because his son had told the truth.

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