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.