What type of narrative relates a brief story that illustrates a lesson or principle?

Anecdotes are brief stories that typically illustrate a specific lesson, principle, or insight. They are often drawn from personal experience or observations and provide a relatable example that encapsulates a broader truth or moral. By recounting a particular incident, anecdotes can effectively engage listeners or readers, making complex ideas more tangible and easier to understand.

The purpose of using anecdotes is to reinforce a concept rather than explain it in abstract terms, creating a connection between the narrative and the lesson intended. This engaging storytelling method is why anecdotes are commonly used in speeches, essays, and various forms of communication to convey messages in a memorable way.