Didactic poetry is a class of poetry that aims to instruct and impart a moral or ethical lesson. Other synonyms that can be used to refer to didactic poetry include moralistic, pedagogical, instructional, educational, informative, and enlightening poetry. Didactic poetry has been used throughout history as a means of teaching and shaping moral values and has been utilized by some of the most celebrated poets and writers of all time. The use of poetry as an instructional tool is not limited to didactic poetry, but it is specifically focused on teaching through the use of poetry, using rhyme, meter, and other poetic devices to impart a message.