The Geese and the Cranes
Story Summary
In the well-known moral story "The Geese and the Cranes," a birdcatcher attempts to ensnare both birds in a meadow. The agile cranes swiftly escape, showcasing their lightness, while the slower, heavier geese are caught in the nets. This short and sweet moral story illustrates the importance of agility and quick thinking in the face of danger.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that those who are agile and quick-witted can often escape difficulties that may ensnare those who are slower or less adaptable.
Historical Context
The fable of "The Geese and the Cranes" is attributed to Aesop, an ancient Greek storyteller whose moral tales often highlight the virtues of cleverness and caution over brute strength. This story serves as a reflection of the cultural values surrounding adaptability and the consequences of one's physical attributes in the face of danger, a recurring theme in Aesop's works that has been retold throughout history in various forms and adaptations. The moral emphasizes the importance of agility and intelligence, contrasting the fate of the slower Geese with the swift Cranes.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable illustrates the importance of adaptability and swift decision-making in the face of challenges, which is highly relevant in today's fast-paced world. For instance, in a rapidly changing job market, professionals who are quick to update their skills and pivot their career paths are more likely to thrive, while those who resist change may find themselves left behind.
You May Also Like
The Tree and the Reed
In "The Tree and the Reed," a proud Tree mocks a humble Reed for its perceived lack of ambition and strength, highlighting the importance of boasting versus modesty. However, when a hurricane strikes, the Tree is uprooted and destroyed, while the adaptable Reed survives by bending with the wind, illustrating valuable lessons from moral stories about the strength found in humility and flexibility. This culturally significant tale serves as a reminder that obscurity can often bring safety, making it a perfect moral story for kids and personal growth.
The Weasel and the Mice
In this simple short story with moral lessons, an old weasel, unable to catch mice due to his age, disguises himself in flour to deceive unsuspecting prey. As several mice fall victim to his trap, an experienced mouse recognizes the ruse and warns others, wishing that the weasel's deceit is matched by his own success. This meaningful story illustrates the consequences of trickery and the wisdom of those who have survived many dangers.
The Stag the Wolf and the Sheep
In "The Stag the Wolf and the Sheep," a Stag seeks a measure of wheat from a Sheep, promising the Wolf as a guarantor. The cautious Sheep declines, fearing both parties' deceit, illustrating the lesson that two dishonest individuals do not create trust. This wisdom-packed moral story teaches young readers that caution is essential when dealing with untrustworthy characters.
Other names for this story
Cranes Escape, Geese in Trouble, Flight of the Cranes, The Birdcatcher's Trap, Meadow of Misfortune, Geese vs. Cranes, Quick Wings, Slow Wings
Did You Know?
This fable illustrates the theme of adaptability and the importance of quick thinking in the face of danger, as the nimble Cranes escape while the slower Geese face dire consequences due to their inability to react swiftly. It highlights how one's physical attributes can influence survival in threatening situations.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.