Abstract
Folktales (together with myths and legends) are part of oral narratives. These are stories from the past, which have been carried through generations by the word of mouth. Lately, folktales have been made available also in inscriptions. Short stories are believed to be the modernized version of folktales (oral narratives) bringing an element of reality in them. There is limited research conducted in isiZulu and siSwati folktales and short stories. The study focuses on the transition of folktales to short stories. Basically, the focus is on the influence of folktales on isiZulu and siSwati short stories. Amongst the elements of prose, the study picked only two, plot and characterization. The study adopted the qualitative approach for data analysis, and the textual analysis method was used. Existing literary texts have been used. The research was grounded on five theories which are by Propp, Dundes, Levi-Strauss, Olrik and Scheub. The study recommends that more studies on isiZulu and siSwati folktales and short stories, addressing other elements of prose, be conducted.