Section 127

The Two Pots explained simply

Aesop's Fables by Aesop

Original excerpt

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Two Pots, one of earthenware and the other of br, were carried away down a river in flood. The Brazen Pot urged his companion to keep close by his side, and he would protect him. The other thanked him, but begged him not to come near him on any account: "For that," he said, "is just what I...
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Public-domain original

Two Pots, one of earthenware and the other of br, were carried away down a river in flood. The Brazen Pot urged his companion to keep close by his side, and he would protect him. The other thanked him, but begged him not to come near him on any account: "For that," he said, "is just what I am most afraid of. One touch from you and I should be broken in pieces." Equals make the best friends.

Public-domain original text shown for study context. Underlined terms can be tapped for simple reader notes.

What happens here

An earthen pot avoids floating beside a brass pot because contact would break it.

Why this scene matters

This fable teaches that unequal companions can be dangerous even without bad intentions.

Characters in this scene

  • Two Pots: A central figure in the fable’s conflict and lesson.

Simple story version

A fragile pot refuses to travel close to a strong pot. One bump would destroy only the weaker one.