Which of the following describes a story that teaches a moral, often featuring animals as characters?

A story that teaches a moral, often featuring animals as characters, is best described as a fable. Fables are short stories that convey a lesson or moral, typically using animals with human traits to illustrate their messages. The use of animals allows for relatable and engaging storytelling while conveying deeper truths about human behavior and ethics.

In contrast, fairy tales frequently involve magical elements and fantastical scenarios, focusing more on adventure and wonder than moral lessons. Myths often explore the origins of the world and the actions of gods and heroes, addressing larger existential themes but not usually structured as moral lessons aimed at behavior. Legends are traditional stories rooted in history, often focusing on human characters and events, rather than the moral lessons found in fables. Therefore, fables stand out for their specific emphasis on morals and the charming use of animal characters to teach valuable life lessons.