Final answer:
The statement claiming social mobility is only a theme in epics and fairy-tales is false; it is also prevalent in novels and other forms of literature as well as in sociological studies and discussions about class structures and capitalism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Social mobility is a theme that appears in epics and fairy-tales rather than novels' is false. Social mobility is a significant theme in various genres of literature, including novels. It refers to the ability of individuals to change positions within a social stratification system, where people improve or diminish their economic status in a way that affects social class.
This phenomenon has been observed and explored throughout history, with capitalism emphasizing the possibility of achieving upward mobility through hard work, embodying the concept of the "American Dream." However, research has shown that social mobility is not as straightforward or as common as one might think, and sometimes individuals and groups may experience downward mobility due to various factors such as business setbacks, unemployment, illness, or broader economic downturns.