Section 201
The Pack-Ass and the Wild Ass explained simply
Aesop's Fables by Aesop
Original excerpt
Excerpt preview
A Wild , who was wandering idly about, one day came upon a Pack-Ass lying at full length in a sunny spot and thoroughly enjoying himself. Going up to him, he said, "What a lucky beast you are! Your sleek coat shows how well you live: how I envy you!" Not long after the Wild...
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Public-domain original
A Wild , who was wandering idly about, one day came upon a Pack-Ass
lying at full length in a sunny spot and thoroughly enjoying himself.
Going up to him, he said, "What a lucky beast you are! Your sleek coat
shows how well you live: how I envy you!" Not long after the Wild Ass
saw his acquaintance again, but this time he was carrying a heavy
load, and his driver was following behind and beating him with a thick
stick. "Ah, my friend," said the Wild Ass, "I don't envy you any more:
for I see you pay dear for your comforts."
Advantages that are dearly bought are doubtful blessings.
Public-domain original text shown for study context. Underlined terms can be tapped for simple reader notes.
What happens here
A Wild Ass, who was wandering idly about, one day came upon a Pack-Ass lying at full length in a sunny spot and thoroughly enjoying himself.
Why this scene matters
This fable matters because it turns the lesson “Advantages that are dearly bought are doubtful blessings.” into a compact story about everyday judgment.
Characters in this scene
- The Pack-Ass: A figure in the fable whose choice helps reveal the lesson.
- The Wild Ass: A figure in the fable whose choice helps reveal the lesson.
Simple story version
In simple terms, The Pack-Ass and The Wild Ass face a small situation that reveals a larger lesson about behavior and consequences.