The Ass in the Lion Skin
Story Summary
In "The Ass in the Lion's Skin," a foolish ass dons a lion's skin to frighten other animals, but his true identity is revealed when he brays. This entertaining moral story illustrates that while appearances can be deceiving, one's true nature will ultimately shine through. The tale serves as a thought-provoking reminder that even the most unique disguises cannot conceal foolishness, as the Fox astutely points out.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
Appearances can be deceiving, but true character is revealed through one's words and actions.
Historical Context
"The Ass in the Lion's Skin" is one of Aesop's fables, originating from ancient Greece around the 6th century BCE. This fable, like many others attributed to Aesop, conveys moral lessons about deception and self-awareness, illustrating that outward appearances can be misleading and that true character is revealed through one's actions and words. The story has been retold in various forms across cultures, emphasizing the universal themes of wisdom and folly.
Our Editors Opinion
In modern life, this fable reminds us that appearances can be deceiving, but true character is revealed through actions and words. For instance, a person might present themselves as an expert in a professional setting by wearing a sharp suit and using jargon, but if they fail to demonstrate genuine knowledge or insight, their superficiality will soon be exposed, just like the Ass in the lion's skin.
You May Also Like
The Fox and the Crane
In "The Fox and the Crane," a Fox invites a Crane to dinner, serving soup in a shallow dish that the Crane cannot eat from, highlighting the funny and impactful moral of reciprocated unkindness. In turn, the Crane invites the Fox and serves food in a narrow container, ensuring the Fox is equally unable to enjoy the meal. This simple moral story illustrates the importance of kindness and consideration in hospitality, offering simple lessons from stories that resonate with readers.
The Noser and the Note
In "The Noser and the Note," an insolvent bank's Head Rifler attempts to deceive an inspector by presenting a personal note as a liability, leading to a satirical exploration of financial mismanagement and the absurdity of legal loopholes. As the inspector ultimately issues a certificate of solvency, the story serves as an impactful moral tale that critiques reliance on deception, reminding readers of the importance of integrity in the face of adversity. This short and sweet moral story highlights the thin line between survival and ethical behavior, making it a thought-provoking addition to inspirational stories with moral lessons.
The Wolf and the Shepherd
In "The Wolf and the Shepherd," a shepherd learns a valuable lesson about trust when he mistakenly leaves his flock in the care of a seemingly harmless wolf. Initially wary, the shepherd eventually grows complacent, leading to the wolf's betrayal and the devastation of his sheep. This concise moral story serves as a cautionary tale for young readers about the dangers of misplaced trust in those who may have ulterior motives.
Other names for this story
Fool in Disguise, The Braying Beast, False Roar, The Ass in Disguise, The Lion's Costume, The Masquerading Ass, Deceptive Appearance, The Foolish Impersonator
Did You Know?
This fable highlights the theme that true identity cannot be hidden behind superficial appearances; no matter how one tries to present themselves, their true nature will ultimately be revealed through their actions and words. The cleverness of the Fox serves as a reminder that wisdom often sees through deception.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.