The Ass and the Old Shepherd
Story Summary
In the engaging moral tale "The Ass and the Old Shepherd," a shepherd warns his lazy Ass about an approaching enemy, but the Ass dismisses the danger, claiming that a change in leadership won't improve his burdens. This well-known moral story illustrates that for the oppressed, a shift in power often leads to no real change in their lives, reflecting the sentiment that the poor merely exchange one master for another. Ultimately, it serves as an entertaining reminder that the struggles of the underprivileged remain constant, regardless of who rules.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that the oppressed often remain unchanged by a shift in power, as their circumstances do not improve regardless of who is in charge.
Historical Context
This fable, attributed to Aesop, highlights themes of apathy and resignation in social hierarchies, reflecting the struggles of the lower classes throughout history. Variations of this tale have appeared in numerous cultures, illustrating the universal sentiments of subservience and the futility of hope for change when power dynamics remain unchanged. The story serves as a poignant commentary on the nature of oppression, often retold in various forms to emphasize the satirical critique of authority and the plight of the marginalized.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable underscores the idea that those in lower socio-economic positions often face the same struggles regardless of who holds power, highlighting the futility of political change for the disenfranchised. In modern life, a worker in a corporation may experience this when a new CEO is appointed; despite a change in leadership, their day-to-day responsibilities and challenges remain unchanged, reflecting the reality that systemic issues often persist regardless of who is in charge.
You May Also Like
The Ass's Brains
In the unique moral story "The Ass's Brains," a Lion and a Fox deceive an Ass into a meeting under the pretense of forming an alliance, leading to the Lion capturing the Ass for dinner. While the Lion naps, the cunning Fox eats the Ass's brains and cleverly justifies his actions by claiming the Ass must have been brainless for falling into the trap. This tale, often included in top 10 moral stories, teaches valuable lessons about wit and the consequences of naivety, making it a fitting narrative for moral stories for class 7.
The Piglet the Sheep and the Goat
In "The Piglet the Sheep and the Goat," a young pig confined with a goat and a sheep reacts violently when the shepherd attempts to capture him, highlighting a crucial distinction in their fates. While the goat and sheep criticize his cries, he explains that they are only sheared for wool or milk, whereas he faces the threat of losing his life. This educational moral story imparts valuable lessons about understanding different experiences and the inherent value of life, making it a wisdom-packed tale within folklore and moral stories.
The Eagle and the Jackdaw
In "The Eagle and the Jackdaw," a Jackdaw, envious of the Eagle's strength, attempts to capture a ram to prove his prowess, only to become ensnared in the fleece. Captured by a shepherd, the Jackdaw learns a valuable lesson: pretending to be something one is not can lead to humiliation. This easy small story imparts a quick moral about the importance of accepting one's true nature rather than envying others.
Other names for this story
The Lazy Ass's Wisdom, The Shepherd's Dilemma, A Change of Masters, The Ass's Indifference, The Panniers of Power, The Shepherd and His Ass, The Ass's Choice, Master or Master?
Did You Know?
This fable illustrates the idea that for the oppressed, the identity of the ruler may be irrelevant if their circumstances remain unchanged, highlighting the often grim reality that those who serve do so under varying degrees of exploitation.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.