The Stag the Wolf and the Sheep
Story Summary
In "The Stag the Wolf and the Sheep," a Stag seeks a measure of wheat from a Sheep, promising the Wolf as a guarantor. The cautious Sheep declines, fearing both parties' deceit, illustrating the lesson that two dishonest individuals do not create trust. This wisdom-packed moral story teaches young readers that caution is essential when dealing with untrustworthy characters.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
One should be cautious in trusting those who are untrustworthy, as their combined deceit can lead to greater trouble.
Historical Context
This fable, attributed to Aesop, reflects the themes of caution and the nature of trust in human relationships, illustrated through animal characters. It emphasizes the idea that associating with those of dubious character, like the Wolf, can lead to inevitable deceit and loss. Aesop's fables, originating in ancient Greece, have been retold across cultures, often serving as moral lessons about human behavior and ethics.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable highlights the importance of being cautious in trusting those who have a history of dishonesty, especially when they are backed by others of questionable character. In modern life, this could reflect scenarios such as an individual being pressured to invest in a business venture that is backed by a known fraudster; despite the allure of quick gains, the potential risks and lack of accountability should raise red flags.
You May Also Like
The Shepherd's Boy
In this fable story with moral, a lonely young Shepherd Boy tricks the villagers twice by falsely shouting "Wolf" to gain their attention. When a real Wolf appears and threatens his sheep, the villagers ignore his cries, believing he is lying again, leading to a loss of his flock. This unique moral story teaches young readers that a liar will not be believed, even when telling the truth, emphasizing the importance of honesty in real-life stories with moral lessons.
The Wolf in Sheeps Clothing
In this easy small story with a moral, a Wolf disguises himself in sheep's clothing to deceive the shepherd and gain access to the flock. However, his plan backfires when the shepherd, mistaking him for a sheep, kills him instead. This life-changing story illustrates that those who seek to harm others often end up facing harm themselves, reminding us of the importance of integrity.
The Faithful Cashier
In "The Faithful Cashier," a bank cashier who defaults on funds claims he used the money for dues to a mutual defense association that protects members under suspicion. This educational moral story highlights the lengths to which individuals might go to maintain appearances, as the association's strategy involves demonstrating a lack of community involvement to reassure the bank's directors. Ultimately, the president covers the cashier's shortage, restoring him to his position, offering a moral lesson about integrity and reputation in moral-based storytelling.
Other names for this story
"Stag, Wolf, and Sheep: A Cautionary Tale, The Cunning Stag and the Clever Sheep, Trusting the Wolf: A Fable of Caution, The Stag's Deception and the Sheep's Wisdom, The Wolf's Trickery: A Fable of Trust, A Measure of Wheat: The Stag and the Sheep, The Sheep's Dilemma: Trusting the Wolf, A Tale of Caution: The Stag, the Wolf, and the Sheep"
Did You Know?
This fable illustrates the theme of trust and the importance of being cautious when dealing with untrustworthy individuals, highlighting that relying on two dishonest parties does not guarantee safety or fairness in any agreement. The Sheep's wisdom in refusing the Stag's request emphasizes the value of discernment in relationships.
Subscribe to Daily Stories
Get a new moral story in your inbox every day.