The Overlooked Factor

From Aesop's Fables🏛️ Ancient Greece
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The Overlooked Factor
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Story Summary

In this culturally significant moral story, a man who meticulously bred his dog to produce exceptional offspring laments the dullness of his own children after marrying his washerwoman. The dog, overhearing his complaint, suggests that the differences in their progeny may not solely be attributed to the mothers, hinting at the man's own qualities as a factor. This short story delivers simple lessons from stories about the importance of self-awareness and the role of personal choices in shaping outcomes, making it a compelling addition to any collection of best moral stories.

Click to reveal the moral of the story

The moral of the story is that careful selection and effort alone cannot guarantee success, as inherent qualities and differences in individuals also play a significant role in outcomes.

Historical Context

This story echoes themes found in Aesop's Fables, particularly the exploration of human folly and the consequences of poor choices in companionship. Aesop, a storyteller from ancient Greece, often used animals to reflect on human behavior, highlighting the contrast between the careful selection seen in breeding animals and the often haphazard nature of human relationships. This tale serves as a satirical commentary on the perceived superiority of one's choices and the inherent flaws in humanity, suggesting that both the selection of mates and the nature of individuals play a crucial role in shaping outcomes.

Our Editors Opinion

This fable highlights the importance of thoughtful choices in all aspects of life, especially in relationships, suggesting that the quality of our partners significantly influences our outcomes. In modern life, consider the scenario of a professional who meticulously selects team members for a project but rushes into a romantic relationship without consideration; when the project succeeds but the personal life falters, it underscores the need for intentionality in both spheres.

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Other names for this story

The Choice That Matters, Love's Unforeseen Consequences, The Breeder's Regret, Mate Selection Missteps, Canine Wisdom, The Unseen Connection, Lessons from a Dog, The Cost of Ignoring Quality

Did You Know?

This story highlights the theme of responsibility in mate selection, suggesting that the qualities one seeks in a partner can significantly impact the outcomes of their offspring, while also revealing a humorous critique of human folly through the comparison with canine breeding.

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Story Details

Age Group
adult
story for class 6
story for class 7
story for class 8
Theme
careful selection
self-awareness
consequences of choices
Characters
man
dog
washerwoman
children dolts
Setting
man’s home
dog kennel
washerwoman’s home
family setting

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