Myths are traditional stories that have been passed down through generations, often with the purpose of explaining natural or social phenomena. They typically involve supernatural beings or events and are set in a time that is often considered to be the distant past. Myths are an important part of many cultures and are often used to teach moral or cultural values.

One of the key literary characteristics of myths is their use of symbolism.
Another common characteristic of myths is their use of archetypes, or recurring character types that represent universal patterns of human behavior.

Myths are typically told in a narrative form, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. They often include a problem or conflict that must be resolved, and the resolution of this conflict often serves as the climax of the story.