Legends of Austria (in Ukrainian)

In the 14th century, legends (in German, 'Sage'—a word derived from Old High German saga and Middle High German sage, meaning ‘conversation’ or ‘expression’) were understood as 'unverified stories about the past.' However, it wasn’t until the 18th and 19th centuries (notably with the Brothers Grimm) that the concept gained widespread popularity. Legends, like fairy tales, were shared in intimate gatherings, but unlike fairy tales, legends were meant to be believed. The storyteller could have been a witness to the events, and details such as location, time, and names were passed down with great seriousness from generation to generation. In contrast, fairy tales provide no such specifics, typically beginning vaguely with 'Once upon a time...' Fairy tales usually end happily—‘And if they haven't died, they’re still alive today.’ Legends, on the other hand, tend to conclude with a sad or moralistic ending.