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Stories about
greed

31 fables about greed, each with a lesson ready to teach.

31 stories

Avaricious and EnviousGreedGreed and envy ultimately lead to one's own suffering and destruction.Grades 3–8Level 3

Jupiter Neptune Minerva and MomusGreedRelentless criticism and envy can lead to one's downfall, as those who focus solely on finding faults in others may ultimately lose their place and respect.Grades 4–8Level 5

The Ass and His ShadowGreedIn our disputes over minor matters, we may overlook and lose what truly matters.Grades 2–4Level 4

The Ass and the GrasshopperGreedOne should not blindly imitate others without understanding their needs and circumstances.Grades 2–5Level 4

The Crab and the FoxGreedStraying from one's natural environment and abilities can lead to unfortunate consequences, highlighting the importance of contentment with one's circumstances.Grades 2–4Level 5

The Crow and the SerpentGreedBe cautious of what appears to be a fortunate opportunity, as it may lead to your downfall.Grades 2–6Level 3

The Dog and the CookGreedExcessive indulgence can lead to unforeseen consequences and misfortune.Grades 2–5Level 3

The Dogs and the HidesGreedAttempting the impossible can lead to disastrous consequences.Grades 2–5Level 4

The Fir Tree and the BrambleGreedIt is better to live a humble life free from worries than to be in a position of perceived importance that invites danger and distress.Grades 2–4Level 5

The Fisherman and His NetsGreedSometimes, despite our best efforts to hold onto everything we desire, we can only retain what is truly meant for us, while the rest may slip away.Grades 2–5Level 5

The Fisher and the Little FishGreedIt is better to value and hold onto a small, certain gain than to risk it for the uncertain promise of a larger reward in the future.Grades 2–4Level 1

The Flies and the Honey PotGreedIndulging in fleeting pleasures can lead to dire consequences and self-destruction.Grades 2–5Level 4

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The Fox and the BrambleGreedSeeking help from those who are inherently harmful or self-serving can lead to greater suffering.Grades 2–4Level 4

The Hen and the Golden EggsGreedGreed can lead to the loss of steady benefits in the pursuit of immediate wealth.Grades 2–5Level 4

The Huntsman and the FishermanGreedModeration in sharing pleasures can enhance enjoyment, while overindulgence may lead to dissatisfaction.Grades 2–8Level 4

The Kites and the SwansGreedThe pursuit of unattainable desires can lead to the forfeiture of existing joys and talents.Grades 2–4Level 4

The Labourer and the NightingaleGreedTo value freedom and the wisdom of experience over material desires, while also recognizing the importance of cherishing what you have and letting go of the past.Grades 2–8Level 3

The LampGreedPride and boastfulness can lead to one's downfall; it is wiser to be humble and content with one's contributions.Grades 2–8Level 3

The Lion and the HareGreedOne should not forsake what they have in pursuit of something better, as it may lead to losing both.Grades 2–4Level 3

The Lion the Fox and the AssGreedLearn from the mistakes of others to avoid suffering the same fate.Grades 2–6Level 4

The Monkey and the CamelGreedAttempting to imitate those more skilled than oneself can lead to embarrassment and rejection.Grades 2–4Level 5

The Mules and the RobbersGreedPride in one's possessions can lead to danger, while humility and modesty often provide safety and peace.Grades 2–5Level 4

The Ox and the FrogGreedOne should not attempt to imitate or compete with those who are vastly greater or different in nature, as it can lead to one's own detriment.Grades 2–5Level 4

The ProphetGreedOne should not neglect their own well-being while focusing on the problems of others.Grades 5–8Level 3

The Raven and the SwanGreedOne cannot change their inherent nature by merely altering their environment or habits.Grades 2–6Level 4

The Swollen FoxGreedIndulgence can lead to entrapment; to escape difficult situations, one must often return to their original state.Grades 2–4Level 4

The Thirsty PigeonGreedEagerness or zeal should be tempered with caution and discernment.Grades 2–4Level 4

The Thrush and the FowlerGreedIndulging in temporary pleasures without caution can lead to dire consequences.Grades 2–5Level 4

The Widow and the SheepGreedAttempting to save costs can lead to greater losses and unintended harm.Grades 2–5Level 2

The Woman and Her HenGreedGreed can lead to loss; seeking more can result in having nothing.Grades 2–4Level 3

The Town Mouse and the Country MouseGreedA simple life in peace is better than a rich life in fear.Grades 2–4Level 1

Talking about greed

1

How much is enough?

2

Why is it hard to share something you love?

3

When has wanting more made things worse?

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