> In the old folk tales, things just happen. Fairness isn't guaranteed; and sometimes a guy makes a deal and gets eaten anyway; and sometimes someone dies for n

> In the old folk tales, things just happen. Fairness isn't guaranteed; and sometimes a guy makes a deal and gets eaten anyway; and sometimes someone dies for no reason. Do you mean in Indian and Eastern European folk tales? Interesting! I should read more of those (I'm familiar with the usual suspects, but I'm sure I'm missing lots). If I'm ever magically transported to a classic folk tale like Grimm's, this is my survival guide. Not fool-proof, but good enough: - Always be kind to strangers, especially old men and women. - Do not make promises lightly, but when you do, always honor them. Especially if you promised something to an animal that can, bizarrely, speak. - Do not accept gifts from strangers, and do not follow strange old ladies into their homes. - Always share what you have with others, e.g. food. If a stranger asks for a favor, always say yes and don't ask for anything in return. - Do not go into the locked room / open the box they told you not to. You'll live a possibly ignorant but long and happy life. - Do not mock anyone who looks strange or hideous. - Always respect your parents and do not lie to them. - (This is the hardest one) Always be the youngest son / daughter.