In a widow's yard lived Chanticleer, a rooster of unparalleled beauty and a voice that rivaled the church organ. One morning, he was haunted by a dream of a orange beast that would seize him. His favorite wife, Pertelote, dismissed his fear as mere indigestion. Soon after, Sir Russell Fox appeared, praising Chanticleer’s divine singing and coaxing the rooster to close his eyes and stretch his neck to hit a high note. As Chanticleer crowed, the fox lunged, seizing the bird by the throat. As the farm animals gave chase, Chanticleer urged the fox to mock his pursuers. When the fox opened his mouth to boast, Chanticleer flew to the safety of a high tree. The fox tried to lure him down with more praise, but the rooster had learned that flattery is a trap for the prideful.
Beware of flattery and keep your eyes open when danger is near; pride often leads to a fall, but wit can provide a second chance.
Questions about this story
What is the moral of Chanticleer and the Fox?
The story teaches that one should not succumb to pride or trust those who use flattery to deceive. It emphasizes that wit and quick thinking can overcome even the most dangerous predators.
Where does the story of Chanticleer come from?
While the character appears in earlier folklore like 'Reynard the Fox,' it is most famously told in Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Nun's Priest's Tale' from 'The Canterbury Tales.'
Who is Chanticleer's wife?
Chanticleer's most beloved wife is Pertelote, a practical hen who initially mocks his prophetic dreams as mere physical ailments and questions his bravery.
How does the fox trick Chanticleer?
The fox appeals to the rooster's immense pride by praising his father's legendary singing voice and asking Chanticleer to demonstrate his own talent with his eyes tightly closed.
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Good night.
