Section 264
The Foxes and the River explained simply
Aesop's Fables by Aesop
Original excerpt
Excerpt preview
A number of Foxes assembled on the bank of a river and wanted to drink; but the current was so strong and the water looked so deep and dangerous that they didn't dare to do so, but stood near the edge encouraging one another not to be afraid. At last one of them, to shame the...
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Public-domain original
A number of Foxes assembled on the bank of a river and wanted to
drink; but the current was so strong and the water looked so deep and
dangerous that they didn't dare to do so, but stood near the edge
encouraging one another not to be afraid. At last one of them, to
shame the rest, and show how brave he was, said, "I am not a bit
frightened! See, I'll step right into the water!" He had no sooner
done so than the current swept him off his feet. When the others saw
him being carried down-stream they cried, "Don't go and leave us! Come
back and show us where we too can drink with safety." But he replied,
"I'm afraid I can't yet: I want to go to the seaside, and this current
will take me there nicely. When I come back I'll show you with
pleasure."
Public-domain original text shown for study context.
What happens here
A short fable about The Foxes and The River shows how choices, assumptions, or desires can lead to consequences.
Why this scene matters
This fable matters because it turns a common human habit into a short lesson about judgment and consequences.
Characters in this scene
- The Foxes: A figure in the fable whose choice helps reveal the lesson.
- The River: A figure in the fable whose choice helps reveal the lesson.
Simple story version
In simple terms, The Foxes and The River face a small situation that reveals a larger lesson about behavior and consequences.