Library / Fantastic Fables

The Herdsman and the Lion

A fable by Ambrose Bierce

Satire for older readers

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The Herdsman and the Lion

A herdsman who had lost a bullock fervently entreated the gods to reveal the identity of the thief. In his desperation, he vowed to sacrifice a goat in gratitude for their assistance.

Just then, a lion approached him, its jaws dripping with the blood of his stolen bullock.

"I thank you, good deities," said the herdsman, continuing his prayer with a mix of relief and reverence. "You have shown me the thief. And now, if you will take him away, I will gladly offer another goat in sacrifice."

The moral
Be careful what you wish for, because you may not want it when it comes.

Discussion questions

  1. What can we learn from the herdsman's misunderstanding of the situation?
  2. How does this story illustrate the concept of irony?
  3. Can you relate to a time when you misunderstood a situation? How did it change your perspective?

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Good night.

Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane