The One-Eyed Doe

Story Summary
In this poignant short moral story, a one-eyed doe cleverly avoids land hunters by feeding on a high cliff, using her good eye to stay vigilant. However, her vulnerability is ultimately discovered, and she is shot from the sea, leading to the realization that one cannot escape their fate. This tale serves as a powerful reminder in the realm of bedtime moral stories, illustrating the inevitability of fate in our lives.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that one cannot evade their fate, no matter how carefully they try to protect themselves.
Historical Context
This fable, reminiscent of Aesop's storytelling tradition, conveys themes of vulnerability, awareness, and the inevitability of fate. Aesop's Fables, originating in ancient Greece, often feature animals that embody human traits, imparting moral lessons that reflect the complexities of life and human nature. The story illustrates how even wise precautions can be rendered ineffective by unforeseen circumstances, a common motif in both ancient and contemporary retellings.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable illustrates the inevitability of fate and the limitations of self-protection; no matter how we try to shield ourselves from danger, unforeseen threats can still arise. In modern life, this can be reflected in a scenario where an individual feels secure in their job due to strong performance and a good reputation, only to be unexpectedly laid off due to company restructuring—demonstrating that sometimes, despite our best efforts to control our circumstances, external factors can disrupt our lives.
You May Also Like

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.

The Bat and the Weasels
In this thought-provoking moral story, a clever Bat encounters two different Weasels, each time using his wits to adapt his identity and escape being eaten. First, he deceives one Weasel by claiming to be a mouse, and then he convinces another that he is not a mouse but a Bat, showcasing the importance of resourcefulness in difficult situations. This short story serves as an educational moral tale about the value of turning circumstances to one's advantage.

The Lion and the Three Bulls
In this famous moral story, three bulls who have always pastured together fall prey to a cunning lion that fears attacking them as a group. By deceitfully separating them, the lion is able to feast on each bull individually, demonstrating the unique moral that unity provides strength and protection. This life-changing story serves as a reminder of the power of togetherness in overcoming adversity.
Other names for this story
The Blindside Doe, Fate of the One-Eyed Doe, The Cliffside Doe, Eyes of Fate, The Hunter's Trick, The Lost Eye, The Sea's Secret, A Doe's Last Stand
Did You Know?
This fable illustrates the theme of vulnerability and the inevitability of fate, highlighting how one's efforts to evade danger can sometimes lead to a more perilous situation; despite her cleverness in avoiding land-based hunters, the Doe's single blind spot ultimately becomes her downfall.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.