What characterizes a tall tale?

A tall tale is characterized by its use of highly exaggerated elements and outlandish events that are presented as truth. These stories often feature larger-than-life characters and improbable feats, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. The key aspect of a tall tale is its intent to entertain through hyperbole, creating a humorous or fantastical narrative that audiences recognize as exaggerated storytelling. This enjoyment often comes from the absurdity of the situations described and the audacious claims made by the characters, such as feats of strength or resilience that defy the laws of nature. This quality sets tall tales apart from other forms of literature that may aim for historical accuracy or moral teachings.