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Talking animal

The talking animal is a common theme in folk tales and literature. The "Three Little Pigs", "Little Red Riding Hood[?]", and the "Musicians of Bremen[?]" are examples of fairy tales featuring talking animals.

In some ancient examples, in the Book of Numbers, Balaam's ass is said to have spoken to him. Later, the animals surrounding Jesus in the manger were said to have talked. In modern literature, The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis featured both talking and non-talking animals.

Having the animals talk enables storytellers to combine the basic character of the animal -- the supposed rapacity of the wolf -- with human behavior -- attempting to trick the pigs. This is an example of anthropomorphism. The animals can also interact with humans better if they talk. See, for example, the fables of La Fontaine.