Loading...
The War-horse and the Miller
Folktale
1 min read
0 comments
0:000:00
Story Summary
In this thought-provoking moral story, a War-horse offers his services to a passing Miller as a hostile army approaches, only to be rebuffed with the patriotic sentiment that it's sweet to die for one's country. Upon closer inspection, the War-horse realizes that the Miller is actually his master in disguise, highlighting the engaging moral tale of loyalty and duty. This value-based moral story serves as a powerful lesson for students and kids about the importance of standing firm in one’s responsibilities during times of danger.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
Historical Context
This story is reminiscent of fables from various cultural traditions, particularly Aesop's Fables, which often convey moral lessons through anthropomorphized animals. The themes of loyalty and patriotism echo through numerous retellings, highlighting the valor of standing one's ground in the face of adversity, a sentiment prevalent in many folklore narratives across different cultures, especially during times of war and national strife. The use of a War-horse and a Miller suggests a rural setting where both military and agrarian life intersect, reflecting societal values tied to duty and sacrifice.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable reflects the importance of loyalty and duty in modern life, especially in times of crisis when true character is revealed. For instance, in a corporate setting, an employee who chooses to stand by their company and team during a challenging project, rather than seeking personal gain or an easy exit, exemplifies the moral of commitment and integrity, much like the Miller's unwavering stance.
You May Also Like
The Milkmaid and Her Bucket
In this classic moral story, a senator amusingly contemplates a grand scheme to amass wealth through corruption, starting with a vote to subsidize cat-ranches. However, his lengthy calculations distract him, leading to the bill passing without his support, ultimately leaving him to return to his constituents as an honest man, embodying the simple lessons from stories about integrity and the humorous twists of moral-based storytelling. This easy small story with moral highlights the unexpected consequences of greed and distraction.
The Man and the Viper
In this thought-provoking moral story, a man discovers a frozen Viper and, believing his warm heart can revive it, takes it into his bosom with hopes of saving it. However, as his anticipation grows, the Viper thaws and thanks him before slithering away, illustrating a powerful lesson for young readers about the consequences of misplaced trust. This short moral story encapsulates the essence of caution and the complexities of kindness, making it a compelling long story with moral depth.
The Herdsman and the Lion
In this famous moral story, a herdsman, having lost a bullock, prays to the gods for the thief's capture, promising to sacrifice a goat. When a lion appears, bloodied from the bullock, the herdsman expresses gratitude and vows to offer another goat if the lion takes the thief away. This very short moral story imparts simple lessons about gratitude and the unforeseen consequences of one's wishes, making it a notable inclusion in short story collections with moral themes and a contender for the top 10 moral stories.
Other names for this story
"Patriot's Choice, The Loyal War-horse, Miller's Honor, Duty Over Self, The Disguised Colonel, Noble Sacrifice, A Horse's Loyalty, The Miller's Stand"
Did You Know?
This story highlights the theme of loyalty and sacrifice, illustrating how those who preach patriotism and duty may sometimes be hypocritical, as seen when the War-horse discovers the Miller is actually his master, who has also abandoned his post. It serves as a critique of individuals who claim to uphold noble values while opting for self-preservation in difficult times.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.