The purchaser of a black servant was convinced that the color of his skin was merely the result of dirt accumulated through the neglect of his previous masters. Upon bringing the servant home, he employed every possible method to clean him, subjecting the man to relentless scrubbings.
Despite the intense scrubbing, the servant caught a severe cold, yet his skin color and complexion remained unchanged. This situation highlighted a profound truth: what is bred in the bone will stick to the flesh.
The moral
Inherent qualities or characteristics cannot be changed by superficial treatments or efforts.
Discussion questions
- What does the story suggest about the nature of identity?
- How does the purchaser's attitude reflect societal views on race and difference?
- In what ways can we apply the moral of this story to our lives today?
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Good night.
Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane
