Fairy tales are a type of folklore that typically involve magical elements, fantastical creatures, and moral lessons. These stories often feature characters such as princesses, witches, talking animals, and brave heroes who overcome challenges and obstacles. Fairy tales have been passed down through generations orally and have been popularized through written collections by authors such as the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen. These stories are often used to entertain and educate children, as well as to explore societal norms, values, and fears. Fairy tales have been studied by researchers in fields such as literature, psychology, and folklore to understand their cultural significance and enduring appeal.