Library / Fantastic Fables

Jupiter and the Baby Show

A fable by Ambrose Bierce

Satire for older readers

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Jupiter and the Baby Show

Jupiter held a baby show that was open to all animals. Among the participants was a Monkey who entered her rather unattractive cub in hopes of winning a prize. However, when Jupiter laid eyes on the cub, she could not help but laugh at its appearance.

"It is all very well for you to laugh at my offspring," said the Monkey defiantly, "but why don’t you visit any gallery of antique sculpture? Look at the statues and busts of the fellows that you yourself have begotten."

"Shh! Don't expose me," Jupiter replied, taken aback by the Monkey's boldness. Realizing the truth in the Monkey's words, she reluctantly awarded her the first prize.

The moral
One should not be quick to judge others, as everyone has flaws, including oneself.

Discussion questions

  1. Why do you think Jupiter initially laughs at the monkey's cub?
  2. How does the monkey's response change Jupiter’s perspective?
  3. Can you think of a time when you judged someone too quickly? What did you learn from that experience?

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Good night.

Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane