Greek FablesAdditional Aesop

The Ass in the Lion's Skin

A donkey's attempt to pose as a lion fails when his braying reveals his true identity.

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Illustration for The Ass in the Lion's Skin - a additional aesop Greek Fables story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

In the classic fable The Ass in the Lion's Skin, a donkey finds a pelt and scares the village. However, his true nature is revealed the moment he tries to speak.

An Ass once found a Lion's skin which hunters had left out in the sun to dry. He put it on and went towards his native village. All fled at his approach, both men and animals, and he was a proud Ass that day. He felt so powerful that he wandered into the woods, scaring everyone he met. In his delight, he attempted to imitate the Lion's roar. But just as he opened his mouth, he let out a loud, harsh bray. A Fox, who was nearby and had been crouching in fear, stopped and looked up. 'Ah,' said the Fox, 'I might have been frightened too, if you had kept your mouth shut. But the moment you spoke, I knew you were only an Ass.'

The Moral

Clothes may disguise a fool, but his words will give him away.

“I might have been frightened too, if you had kept your mouth shut.”

Fun Fact

This fable is so ancient and universal that versions of it appear not only in Greek lore but also in the Indian Jataka tales, where the donkey is dressed in a panther skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of The Ass in the Lion's Skin?

The moral is that while fine clothes and appearances can temporarily deceive others, a person's speech and actions will eventually reveal their true character. It warns that a fool cannot hide behind a mask forever.

How did the Fox know it wasn't a real lion?

The Fox recognized the Ass the moment he tried to roar. Instead of a fearsome sound, the donkey let out a loud bray, which is the unmistakable voice of his true species.

Who is the author of The Ass in the Lion's Skin?

The story is attributed to Aesop, the legendary Greek storyteller. It is part of a collection of fables used to teach moral lessons through the behavior of animals.

What does the lion's skin symbolize in the story?

The lion's skin symbolizes a false identity, status, or authority that someone hasn't earned. It represents the external trappings of power used by those who lack the internal qualities of a leader.

Is there a similar idiom to this fable?

Yes, it is very similar to the concept of 'a wolf in sheep's clothing,' though the focus here is more on foolishness and self-exposure rather than malicious intent.

Why did the Ass want to wear the lion's skin?

The Ass wanted to feel powerful and command the respect or fear that people usually show to a lion. He enjoyed the vanity of being treated as something greater than he actually was.