What is the genre of John Henry? What led you to this conclusion?

The genre of the story John Henry is a folktale. What led me to this conclusion is that historians believe it is based on an actual even of an African American man who took on a steam driving machine and won.

on an actual event

Do you have a definition of "folktale" that your sentence matches? If so, then you're fine. If not, be sure to check it out.

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To determine the genre of any story, it is helpful to consider several factors such as the overall theme, style, and cultural context. In the case of John Henry, there are a few reasons why it is considered a folktale:

1. Historical Background: John Henry is based on a popular American legend that originated during the construction of the railroad in the late 19th century. The story is rooted in the experiences of African American workers and their struggles against industrialization and automation.

2. Oral Tradition: Like most folktales, John Henry was primarily transmitted through oral tradition. It was passed down from generation to generation, often sharing common elements and variations in different regions of the United States.

3. Moral Lessons: Folktales often convey moral lessons, and John Henry is no exception. The story's themes include determination, resilience, and the value of human labor in the face of machinery.

4. Iconic Characters and Events: Folktales tend to have larger-than-life characters and events that capture the imagination. John Henry, the protagonist of the story, is portrayed as a strong and heroic figure who challenges a steam-powered machine with sheer strength and determination.

Taking these factors into account, historians and literary scholars classify John Henry as a folktale due to its origin, transmission method, moral lessons, and larger-than-life characters. It embodies many of the key characteristics typically associated with this genre.