A Country Mouse invited his city cousin to a modest dinner of dried peas and barley. The Town Mouse, accustomed to fine dining, turned up his nose. 'How can you endure such poverty?' he asked. 'Come to the city and I will show you how to live.' The Country Mouse agreed. That evening, they entered a grand dining room and feasted on leftover cake, honey, and fine cheeses. Suddenly, the door burst open. A servant entered with a pack of barking dogs. The terrified mice scrambled to a dark corner, shivering in fear. When the danger passed, the Country Mouse took his leave. 'You may keep your riches,' he said. 'I prefer my simple beans in peace to your sugar in fear.'
It is better to live in humble poverty with peace and security than to enjoy luxury amidst constant fear and danger.
Advertisement
Questions about this story
What is the moral of The Town Mouse and Country Mouse?
The moral is that peace and security are far more valuable than wealth or luxury. It teaches us that a modest life free from fear is better than a rich life full of anxiety.
Who wrote The Town Mouse and Country Mouse?
The story is one of Aesop's Fables, attributed to the ancient Greek storyteller Aesop. It has been retold for millennia by various authors, including the Roman poet Horace.
What happens to the mice in the city?
While the mice are enjoying a magnificent feast of cake and cheese, they are suddenly interrupted by humans and barking dogs. They are forced to hide in terror, realizing their lives are in danger.
Why did the Country Mouse leave the city?
He realized that the delicious food was not worth the constant threat of death. He decided he would rather be hungry and safe in the country than full and terrified in the city.
Advertisement
