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 Boy and His Mother
[Read more…] about The Boy and His MotherA Boy about to be executed for stealing went to his Mother and bit her ear. He then accused her of abetting his first crime which later led to the gallows.
We are made by our teachings in youth.
The Tortoise and The Eagle
[Read more…] about The Tortoise and The EagleA Tortoise wanted to fly and promised riches. An Eagle heard and took the Tortoise for a ride. No reward though so a second ride and sudden drop followed.
Never put yourself in your enemy’s clutches.
The Fox and The Goat
[Read more…] about The Fox and The GoatA Goat and Fox went into a deep well to drink. Neither could get out alone. The Goat was talked into helping the Fox who then left the Goat on his own.
Look before you leap.
The Wolf and The Crane
[Read more…] about The Wolf and The CraneA Crane wanted to get paid for taking a bone from the throat of a Wolf. The Wolf advised caution.
When working for a tyrant, feel lucky to escape alive.
The Lion, The Fox, and The Ass
[Read more…] about The Lion, The Fox, and The AssA lion hunted with others. When it came time to divide the spoils the lion killed those who attempted to divide thing evenly. The fox learned and lived.
Happy is the man who learns from the misfortunes of others.