Trickster TalesReynard the Fox

Reynard and the Wolf

A clever fox escapes a well by tricking a greedy wolf into taking his place.

1 min read

2 characters

Illustration for Reynard and the Wolf - a reynard the fox Trickster Tales story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

Discover the classic trickster tale of Reynard and the Wolf. Witness how the clever fox uses a well and the moon's reflection to outsmart his greedy rival.

Reynard the Fox found himself trapped at the bottom of a deep well, having mistakenly jumped into a bucket thinking the moon's reflection on the water was a giant wheel of cheese. When his rival, Isegrim the Wolf, peered over the edge, Reynard saw his chance for escape. 'Isegrim!' he called out joyfully, 'I am in paradise, feasting on celestial delicacies. Jump into the other bucket and join the feast!' Driven by gluttony and a dim wit, the wolf leaped into the empty bucket at the top. As the heavier wolf descended, his weight pulled the fox's bucket toward the surface. Passing each other halfway, Reynard chuckled and said, 'Such is the way of the world, my friend; when one goes up, the other must go down.' Reynard leaped to safety on the grass, leaving the shivering wolf trapped in the cold, dark water below.

The Moral

Wit can overcome any predicament, especially when dealing with those who are blinded by their own greed.

“Such is the way of the world; when one goes up, the other must go down.”

Fun Fact

The Reynard stories were so popular in France that the Old French word for fox, 'voupil,' was eventually replaced by 'renard,' named after the character.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of Reynard and the Wolf?

The story teaches that intelligence and quick thinking are more powerful than brute strength. It also warns that greed can lead one directly into a trap set by a clever enemy.

Who are the main characters in the Reynard stories?

The central figure is Reynard, a clever and amoral fox, while his primary antagonist is Isegrim, a strong but dull-witted wolf. They represent the clash between wit and power.

Why did Reynard trick the wolf into the well?

Reynard was stuck at the bottom of the well and needed a counterweight to pull his bucket back to the surface. He used the wolf's greed to manipulate him into jumping in.

What does the moon's reflection represent in the story?

The reflection of the moon represents a false prize or an illusion. It symbolizes how the foolish are easily deceived by appearances when they are motivated by gluttony.

Where do the stories of Reynard the Fox originate?

These stories originated in medieval Europe, particularly in French, Dutch, and German literature. They often served as satires of the aristocracy and the clergy.

Is Reynard considered a hero or a villain?

Reynard is a classic trickster figure who is neither purely good nor evil. He survives by his wits in a world of stronger predators, though his methods are often cruel.