Story Summary
Discover the classic Aesop's fable The Lion and the Mouse, where a tiny creature proves that even the smallest act of kindness can save the mightiest of kings.
A great Lion lay asleep in the forest, his huge head resting on his paws. A timid little Mouse came upon him unexpectedly, and in her fright and haste to get away, she ran across the Lion's nose. Roused from his nap, the Lion laid his huge paw angrily on the tiny creature to kill her. 'Spare me!' begged the poor Mouse. 'Please let me go and some day I will surely repay you.' The Lion was much amused to think that a Mouse could ever help him, but he was generous and finally let her go. Some days later, while stalking his prey in the forest, the Lion was caught in the toils of a hunter's net. Unable to free himself, he filled the forest with his angry roaring. The Mouse knew the voice and quickly found the Lion struggling in the net. Running to one of the great ropes that bound him, she gnawed it until it parted, and soon the Lion was free. 'You laughed when I said I would repay you,' said the Mouse. 'Now you see that even a Mouse can help a Lion.'
The Moral
No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.
“Little friends may prove great friends.”
Fun Fact
This fable is over 2,500 years old and was originally part of an oral tradition before being transcribed into the famous Greek collection known as Aesop's Fables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Lion and the Mouse?
The moral is that kindness is never wasted and even the smallest person can help someone much stronger. It teaches us to value everyone regardless of their size or status.
Who wrote the story of The Lion and the Mouse?
The story is credited to Aesop, a storyteller believed to have lived in ancient Greece. It has been passed down through centuries as part of his collection of fables.
Why did the lion spare the mouse's life?
The lion was amused by the mouse's promise to help him one day. Because he found the idea so funny and was feeling generous, he decided to let the tiny creature go.
How did the mouse help the lion?
When the lion was caught in a hunter's rope net, the mouse used her sharp teeth to gnaw through the thick cords. By chewing through the ropes, she managed to set the mighty lion free.
What does the lion represent in the story?
The lion represents power, strength, and perhaps a bit of arrogance. His journey shows that even those at the top of the food chain are vulnerable and need others.
What is the significance of the mouse in the fable?
The mouse represents the underdog or the unlikely hero. Her actions prove that intelligence and loyalty are just as valuable as physical strength when facing a crisis.