Stories that teach a lesson are called what?

Answer 1

What were these stories supposed to teach

Answer 2

The better, common word is "allegory." A less common word would be "apologue." "Parables" in common usage are usually assumed to be religious, often even Christian specific, or even more specifically, stories told by Christ himself. "Fables" such as Aesop's almost always have a moral or ethical message but are not generally considered religiously oriented, though they may be considered "Western-centric." Even "legends" over time will drift from pure historical form and take on cultural significance.

So, by definition, "fables" and "parables" are "allegorical" in nature. Other religions, ethnic or even national/political cultures will have similar stories by different names, all allegorical in nature.

Answer 3

Tall