The following text is quoted from the famous book "In the Shade of the Quran" by Sayyid Qutub

Stories and narratives are a familiar part of the Qur’ān, recurring with varying
emphasis and detail. The context within which a narrative or story is given normally dictates the main line and content of the story, as well as the style and form in which it is presented. All these factors are chosen to blend in with the spiritual and intellectual background of the text, as well as its artistic aspects. In this way, a story or narrative serves its intended purpose and produces the desired psychological effect.

Some people are of the view that there is much repetition in the Qur’ān, as some stories are related in more than one sūrah. But on deeper reflection, one finds that not a single story or episode is ever related twice in exactly the same way. There are obvious variations of detail, style and format. Every time a story is told, it has something new to say. The criticism of repetitiveness does not stand.

Some have gone so far as to suggest that there is a certain amount of invention or manipulation of detail and events, with a tendency to artistic licence that does not adhere to historical facts. But anyone studying the Qur’ān objectively, with an honest and open mind, will see clearly that the circumstances in which a story is related determine the aspects and amount of detail given in each specific instance. These also usually dictate the style and the way in which it is presented.

The Qur’ān is a book with a message. It lays down a constitution and provides an outline for a complete way of life. Its purpose is not to relate a story or to give an account of historical events for pure intellectual enjoyment. The extent of narrative detail chosen is determined by the message and the context in which it is used, while seeking also to attain and preserve beauty of style and power of expression, without exaggeration or false embellishment. The Qur’ānic style relies purely on faithful representation of the facts with characteristic power and beauty.

Historical accounts of earlier Prophets, as related in the Qur’ān, portray the long procession of the faithful through the ages, and the reaction of mankind to God’s messages, generation after generation. They also give us a glimpse of faith in God as experienced and interpreted by that select group of human beings, the messengers, whom God has chosen for the great honour of conveying His message to mankind.

For believers, reading these rich and vivid accounts can be heart-warming and
reassuring, reaffirming the essence and value of faith and its profound role in human life. They also help define the believer’s outlook on life, as established by the belief in God, and distinguish it from other man-made concepts. It is for these reasons that such historical narratives form a significant part of the Qur’ānic text.