exemplum

/ɪɡˈzɛmpləm/
noun
  1. An example or model, especially a story or anecdote used to illustrate a moral point.
    • The teacher told an exemplum about a hardworking ant to teach the value of diligence.
    • Medieval sermons often included an exemplum to make the lesson more memorable.
    • The fable of the tortoise and the hare is a classic exemplum of perseverance.
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