The Critics
In this creative moral story, Minerva, captivated by the beauty of Antinous, inadvertently turns him to stone when he glimpses her shield adorned with Medusa's head. As she seeks Jove's assistance to restore him, a Sculptor and a Critic debate the artistic merits of the petrified figure, missing the deeper lessons from this tragic folklore. This tale exemplifies the themes found in popular moral stories, reminding us of the importance of empathy and understanding over superficial critique.
Reveal Moral
"The story illustrates that criticism can often overshadow genuine appreciation, leading to the loss of beauty and talent in the pursuit of perfection."
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Mercury and the Sculptor
In "Mercury and the Sculptor," Mercury, disguised as a man, visits a sculptor to assess his esteem among mortals. After inquiring about the prices of Jupiter and Juno's statues, he humorously suggests his own statue should be valued higher, only for the sculptor to quip that he'd throw it in for free if Mercury buys the other two. This concise moral story highlights the importance of humility and the sometimes inflated self-worth that can lead to humorous situations.
The Ashes of Madame Blavatsky
In "The Ashes of Madame Blavatsky," a unique moral story unfolds as an Inquiring Soul seeks wisdom from Theosophy's leading figures, eventually declaring himself the Ahkoond of Swat. After their execution for deceit, he ascends to leadership but meets a comical demise, only to be reincarnated as a Yellow Dog that consumes Madame Blavatsky's ashes, leading to the end of Theosophy. This captivating moral tale serves as a timeless reminder of the folly of misplaced reverence and the consequences of hubris.
The Cat-Maiden
In "The Cat-Maiden," a culturally significant moral story, Jupiter and Venus debate the possibility of changing one's true nature. To prove his point, Jupiter transforms a Cat into a Maiden and marries her to a young man. However, during the wedding feast, when a mouse is released, the bride's instinctive leap to catch it reveals that her true nature remains unchanged, illustrating the moral that one's inherent traits cannot be altered.