The Rule of Three

We’d bet dollars to donuts you’ve heard of stories like The Three Little Pigs, Rumpelstiltskin, and A Christmas Carol. What do all of these stories have in common? Well, they all make use of what’s known as the “Rule of Three”. The Rule of Three suggests that a trio of characters or events is more humorous, satisfying, or effective than other numbers. In storytelling it’s used to emphasize an idea, set up a punchline, or tell a story in a simple, catchy way. Usually the stories feature three siblings - the third being the smartest or most resourceful, as in the case of The Three Little Pigs - or three guesses, like in Rumpelstiltskin. And of course Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three spirits. Not only do today’s stories also follow the rule of three, but, fittingly, you’ll hear three of them! On today's episode, enjoy the following: “Jack and the Northwest Wind” by Ed Stivender from Fool’s Luck (12:36) “Molly and the Giant” by Barbara Schutzgruber from Still a Bit of Sugar But Even More Spice (26:43) “The Most Precious Gift” by Dan Keding from Strawberries in Winter (10:20)