The Scorpion and the Frog
Story Summary
In the captivating moral story "The Scorpion and the Frog," a scorpion persuades a frog to carry him across a stream by promising not to sting him, claiming it would lead to both their deaths. However, midway across, the scorpion stings the frog, leading to their mutual demise, as he explains, "It's my nature." This meaningful story with a moral serves as a reminder of the inherent traits that can lead to tragic consequences, making it one of the short stories to learn morals from.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that inherent nature can drive individuals to act against their own best interests, even when it leads to mutual destruction.
Historical Context
The fable of the scorpion and the frog is often attributed to Aesop, a storyteller from ancient Greece known for his moral tales featuring anthropomorphic animals. This story has been retold in various cultures, illustrating themes of inherent nature and betrayal, and serves as a cautionary tale about trusting those whose instincts are contrary to one's own well-being. Its enduring relevance highlights the complexities of character and the often tragic consequences of innate tendencies.
Our Editors Opinion
This story serves as a cautionary tale about trusting others despite their inherent nature, reminding us that some individuals may act against their own interests due to deep-seated instincts. For instance, in a workplace scenario, an employee might take a risk by collaborating with a colleague known for unethical behavior, only to find their trust misplaced when the colleague undermines the project for personal gain, echoing the moral that one should be wary of inherent traits that can lead to self-sabotage.
You May Also Like
The Two Soldiers and the Robber
In this captivating moral story, two soldiers face a robber, where one bravely stands his ground while the other cowardly flees. After the robber is defeated, the timid soldier boasts of his intentions to fight, only to be dismissed by his courageous companion, who imparts a heartwarming life lesson about the true nature of bravery and the unreliability of hollow words. This culturally significant tale reminds us that actions speak louder than words in the face of adversity.
King Log and King Stork
In "King Log and King Stork," a culturally significant moral story, the people, dissatisfied with a Democratic Legislature that only stole a portion of their wealth, elect a Republican government that exploits them even further. This long story with moral lessons illustrates how the new regime not only takes everything they have but also demands a promissory note secured by their very hope of death, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of political change without true accountability. Through this entertaining moral story, the narrative reflects the grim reality that without vigilance, the quest for better governance can lead to even greater exploitation.
The Man and the Wood
In "The Man and the Wood," a man enters a forest seeking a branch from the trees, who kindly oblige, unaware of his true intentions. He uses the branch to enhance his axe, ultimately cutting down the very trees that helped him, leaving them to regret their generosity. This captivating moral story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of misplaced trust, making it an entertaining read for students and adults alike.
Other names for this story
The Sting of Nature, Trust and Betrayal, The Frog's Fatal Choice, Nature's True Instincts, The Perilous Crossing, A Lesson in Trust, When Nature Strikes, The Scorpion's Dilemma
Did You Know?
This fable illustrates the concept of inherent nature, suggesting that certain traits or behaviors are deeply ingrained and can override self-preservation instincts, highlighting the complexities of trust and betrayal in relationships.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.