Which era in the historical timeline of media was characterized by sharing stories primarily through spoken word?

The era characterized by sharing stories primarily through spoken word is known as the Oral Tradition. This period is significant in the history of communication and media because it represents the earliest form of storytelling, where knowledge, culture, and history were passed down verbally from one generation to the next. In societies that relied on oral tradition, people used storytelling as a way to convey morals, values, and community identity without the aid of written text. This form of communication fostered a strong sense of community and engagement, as listeners often participated in the storytelling process.

The other eras mentioned—Digital Era, Print Era, and Post-Digital Era—represent advancements in media through the use of written and digital formats, which emerged long after oral tradition was established. Each of these later eras shifted how stories and information were disseminated, incorporating technology to enhance communication beyond the capabilities of spoken word alone.