The Hawk and the Nightingale
Story Summary
In the classic moral story "The Hawk and the Nightingale," a Hawk captures a Nightingale and dismisses his pleas for freedom, arguing that he would be foolish to forgo an easy meal for the uncertainty of pursuing larger prey. This short moral story illustrates the wisdom of valuing what is readily available rather than chasing after uncertain prospects. As with many small moral stories, it teaches a timeless lesson about the dangers of greed and the importance of appreciating the present.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that one should not overlook immediate opportunities for uncertain prospects.
Historical Context
This fable, attributed to Aesop, an ancient Greek storyteller, reflects themes of practicality and the harsh realities of survival in nature. It illustrates the moral lesson that one should not overlook immediate opportunities for uncertain prospects, a common motif in various cultures' folklore, where animals often embody human traits and dilemmas. This tale has been retold in numerous adaptations, emphasizing its timeless relevance in discussions about decision-making and the consequences of choices.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable illustrates the importance of seizing opportunities when they present themselves, rather than pursuing uncertain prospects. In modern life, this is reflected in career situations where individuals might hesitate to take a job offer that is available and promising because they are waiting for a potentially better opportunity that may never materialize. For instance, a recent graduate might turn down a solid entry-level position because they are hoping for an internship with a prestigious company that has not yet responded; in doing so, they risk missing out on valuable experience and growth.
You May Also Like
The Kite, the Pigeons, and the Hawk
In the fable "The Kite, the Pigeons, and the Hawk," a group of Pigeons turns to a Hawk for help against a Kite's relentless attacks. After the Hawk defeats the Kite, he becomes overindulgent and vulnerable, leading the grateful Pigeons to blind him in a twist of fate. This life-changing story serves as a moral lesson about the dangers of excess and ingratitude in folklore and moral stories.
The Lamb and the Wolf
In the simple short story "The Lamb and the Wolf," a Wolf chases a Lamb that finds refuge in a Temple. When the Wolf warns the Lamb that he would be sacrificed by the Priest, the Lamb wisely replies that being sacrificed is preferable to being eaten by the Wolf. This quick moral story highlights the theme of choosing a less harmful fate over a more dangerous one, making it a meaningful story with moral lessons suitable for class 7.
The Weasel and the Mice
In this simple short story with moral lessons, an old weasel, unable to catch mice due to his age, disguises himself in flour to deceive unsuspecting prey. As several mice fall victim to his trap, an experienced mouse recognizes the ruse and warns others, wishing that the weasel's deceit is matched by his own success. This meaningful story illustrates the consequences of trickery and the wisdom of those who have survived many dangers.
Related Collections
Other names for this story
Hawk's Dilemma, Nightingale's Plea, The Hunter and the Songbird, A Soprano's Last Chance, Prey and Predator, The Oak's Lament, Flight of the Nightingale, The Hawk's Choice
Did You Know?
This fable illustrates the theme of practicality over idealism, highlighting the notion that immediate opportunities should not be sacrificed for uncertain future prospects, a lesson relevant in both nature and human decision-making.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.