trickster tale, in oral traditions worldwide, a story featuring a protagonist (often an anthropomorphized animal) who has magical powers and who is characterized as a compendium of opposites. ... Often the trickster serves as a transformer and culture hero who creates order out of chaos.

What is the purpose of a trickster tale?

Trickster tales are used to entertain and often to teach lessons about how to behave and treat other people. First Nations people have used trickster stories to teach their children for many years. Tricksters are smart and they use their knowledge to play tricks or to try and bend the rules.

What are three qualities of a trickster tale?

Three characteristics that are shown include anthropomorphism, negative qualities of the trickster, and helpfulness of the trickster, all in which will lead to the success of the trickster at the end of the tale. One technique commonly used in trickster tales is the use of anthropomorphism.