Section 186
The Wolves and the Dogs explained simply
Aesop's Fables by Aesop
Original excerpt
Excerpt preview
Once upon a time the Wolves said to the Dogs, "Why should we continue to be enemies any longer? You are very like us in most ways: the main difference between us is one of training only. We live a life of freedom; but you are enslaved to mankind, who beat you, and put heavy co...
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Public-domain original
Once upon a time the Wolves said to the Dogs, "Why should we continue
to be enemies any longer? You are very like us in most ways: the main
difference between us is one of training only. We live a life of
freedom; but you are enslaved to mankind, who beat you, and put heavy
collars round your necks, and compel you to keep watch over their
flocks and herds for them, and, to crown all, they give you nothing
but bones to eat. Don't put up with it any longer, but hand over the
flocks to us, and we will all live on the fat of the land and feast
together." The Dogs allowed themselves to be persuaded by these words,
and accompanied the Wolves into their den. But no sooner were they
well inside than the Wolves set upon them and tore them to pieces.
Traitors richly deserve their fate.
Public-domain original text shown for study context.
What happens here
A short fable about The Wolves and The Dogs shows how choices, assumptions, or desires can lead to consequences.
Why this scene matters
This fable matters because it turns the lesson “Traitors richly deserve their fate.” into a compact story about everyday judgment.
Characters in this scene
- The Wolves: A figure in the fable whose choice helps reveal the lesson.
- The Dogs: A figure in the fable whose choice helps reveal the lesson.
Simple story version
In simple terms, The Wolves and The Dogs face a small situation that reveals a larger lesson about behavior and consequences.