Many of the subjects of Lithuanian folk tales are quite similar to those of other cultures. However, they are distinguished by unique variations and calm delivery. The tellers employ mimicry and intonation changes sparingly and subtly. The characters that inhabit these tales do not have proper names or possess ones that only exist in stories. If you know someone named Sigute or Zilvinas, you can be sure that their names come from popular Lithuanian tales.
Mystical tales are most common and are often the most artistic.
In them, heroes battle dragons or free people who have been turned into swans, grass snakes or other animals. The unique and tragic story of Zilvinas, the king of the grass snakes, his wife Egle, and their family remains as a relict of the ancient cult of the grass snake. Many stories involve orphans and evil stepmothers. Heroes are often aided by magical objects and heavenly or earthly helpers. Short stories without endings and tales about animals are especially popular among children.