Throughout history fables have been a popular method of giving instruction. Fables contain a short narrative that seeks to illustrate a hidden message. Generally, fables use animals or objects as part of the narrative yet the message is designed to apply to humans. By doing this, the fabulist is not perceived as the teacher and this reduces any bias the listeners might have against the person. The most famous fabulist would be Aesop who most date around 620 B.C. Many fables are attributed to Aesop, but it’s unclear how many he actually wrote; indeed, his historical existence as a person is under question. I’ve collected many of them here for your enjoyment. A number of translations were found and the fables collected. Several different translations and interpretations of the same fable may be found on many of the pages here; including, now and again, a simplified version I wrote.
[Read more…] about Aesop’s Fables Home PageThe Two Crabs
[Read more…] about The Two CrabsA child crab is berated by the parent crab for walking awkwardly. The child crab points out the parent should set the example.
Example is the best precept.
A Jackdaw and Peacock Feathers
[Read more…] about A Jackdaw and Peacock FeathersA fine bird is more than fine feathers. A Jackdaw tried to make itself look pretty using peacock feathers. It had to flee when found out. What a rout.
A fine bird is more than fine feathers
The Frogs Pick a King
[Read more…] about The Frogs Pick a KingFrogs prayed for a king but got a log. Prayed again and got a stork who started to have a feast on them.
People are never satisfied.
The Cock and The Jewel
[Read more…] about The Cock and The JewelA Cock (Rooster) looks for food but finds a jewel and throws it aside as unwanted.
Precious things are for those who prize them.
The Wolf and The Lamb
[Read more…] about The Wolf and The LambTyrants need no excuse. A Wolf catches a Lamb by a river and argues to justify killing it. Doesn’t matter as the Wolf needs no excuse.
Tyrants need no excuse.