The Stag the Wolf and the Sheep
Story Summary
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.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
One should be cautious in trusting those who are untrustworthy, as their combined deceit can lead to greater trouble.
Historical Context
This fable, attributed to Aesop, reflects the themes of caution and the nature of trust in human relationships, illustrated through animal characters. It emphasizes the idea that associating with those of dubious character, like the Wolf, can lead to inevitable deceit and loss. Aesop's fables, originating in ancient Greece, have been retold across cultures, often serving as moral lessons about human behavior and ethics.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable highlights the importance of being cautious in trusting those who have a history of dishonesty, especially when they are backed by others of questionable character. In modern life, this could reflect scenarios such as an individual being pressured to invest in a business venture that is backed by a known fraudster; despite the allure of quick gains, the potential risks and lack of accountability should raise red flags.
You May Also Like
The Wolf in Sheeps Clothing
In this easy small story with a moral, a Wolf disguises himself in sheep's clothing to deceive the shepherd and gain access to the flock. However, his plan backfires when the shepherd, mistaking him for a sheep, kills him instead. This life-changing story illustrates that those who seek to harm others often end up facing harm themselves, reminding us of the importance of integrity.
The Cat and the Cock
In "The Cat and the Cock," a Cat captures a Cock and seeks a justification for eating him, accusing the Cock of disturbing men with his nighttime crowing. Despite the Cock's defense that his crowing helps men wake for their labors, the Cat dismisses his pleas, illustrating a big moral story about the disregard of reason in the face of predation. This short story with moral highlights the consequences of selfishness and the importance of understanding intentions in life-changing stories.
The Stag who Admired his Reflection
In this fable, a vain stag admires his beautiful antlers while lamenting his slender legs, believing the former to be more valuable. When a bloodhound pursues him, he discovers that his prized antlers hinder his escape, illustrating the simple moral that valuing beauty over utility can lead to one's downfall. This entertaining moral story serves as a reminder that what we often regard as beautiful may ultimately bring us strife, while the useful, though overlooked, is essential for survival.
Other names for this story
"Stag, Wolf, and Sheep: A Cautionary Tale, The Cunning Stag and the Clever Sheep, Trusting the Wolf: A Fable of Caution, The Stag's Deception and the Sheep's Wisdom, The Wolf's Trickery: A Fable of Trust, A Measure of Wheat: The Stag and the Sheep, The Sheep's Dilemma: Trusting the Wolf, A Tale of Caution: The Stag, the Wolf, and the Sheep"
Did You Know?
This fable illustrates the theme of trust and the importance of being cautious when dealing with untrustworthy individuals, highlighting that relying on two dishonest parties does not guarantee safety or fairness in any agreement. The Sheep's wisdom in refusing the Stag's request emphasizes the value of discernment in relationships.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.