Section 59
The Ass in the Lion's Skin explained simply
Aesop's Fables by Aesop
Original excerpt
Excerpt preview
An found a Lion's Skin, and dressed himself up in it. Then he went about frightening every one he met, for they all took him to be a lion, men and beasts alike, and took to their heels when they saw him coming. Elated by the success of his trick, he loudly brayed in triumph. The Fox...
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Public-domain original
An found a Lion's Skin, and dressed himself up in it. Then he went
about frightening every one he met, for they all took him to be a
lion, men and beasts alike, and took to their heels when they saw
him coming. Elated by the success of his trick, he loudly brayed in
triumph. The Fox heard him, and recognised him at once for the Ass he
was, and said to him, "Oho, my friend, it's you, is it? I, too, should
have been afraid if I hadn't heard your voice."
Public-domain original text shown for study context. Underlined terms can be tapped for simple reader notes.
What happens here
An ass wears a lion skin and scares others until his voice reveals him.
Why this scene matters
This fable teaches that disguise cannot hide true nature forever.
Characters in this scene
- Ass in the Lion's Skin: A central figure in the fable’s conflict and lesson.
Simple story version
The ass dresses like a lion and frightens animals. When he brays, everyone knows what he really is.