The Lion and the Wild Ass by Esopo

Name: The Lion and the Wild Ass
Author: Esopo

A lion and a wild ass are traveling together. The lion is proud and arrogant, while the wild ass is humble and meek. As they journey on, they come across a narrow bridge over a deep chasm. The lion, being larger and more powerful, insists that he should go first, claiming it's his right as the stronger one. The wild ass, however, points out that if the lion goes first, he will break the bridge, causing both of them to fall into the chasm. He suggests that they cross together, with him leading the way. The lion is unwilling to compromise and insists on going first. The wild ass reluctantly agrees, but only after the lion has gone ahead. As predicted, the lion breaks the bridge, and both animals fall into the chasm. In this fable, the lion's pride and arrogance lead to his downfall, while the wild ass's humility and willingness to compromise save him from disaster.

By Esopo · First published 1668 · Genre: Fables, Children's literature, Fairy tales · 143 words

First lines

A Lion and a Wild Ass went out hunting together: the latter was to run down the prey by his superior speed, and the former would then come up and despatch it. They met with great success; and when it came to sharing the spoil the Lion divided it all into three equal portions. "I will take the first," said he, "because I am King of the beasts; I will also take the second, because, as your partner, I am entitled to half of what remains; and as for the third -- well, unless you give it up to me and take yourself off pretty quick, the third, believe me, will make you feel very sorry for yourself! "

Might makes right.

What this Textopian page supports

The Lion and the Wild Ass is listed on Textopian as a fable by Esopo, dated 1668 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Fable
Author: Esopo
Date: 1668 CE
Language: English
Genres: Fables, Children's literature, Fairy tales, Mythology
Length: 143 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Fables — Esopo is known for writing fables and 'The Lion and the Wild Ass' is a story with a moral lesson, indicating that it falls into the Fables category.
Children's literature — Fables are often used as educational tools for children, teaching moral lessons through simple, engaging stories.
Fairy tales — Although not traditional fairy tales, Esopo's fables often involve animal characters with human-like characteristics, similar to many fairy tales.
Mythology — Esopo's fables, although not true myths, often feature creatures and events from ancient Greek mythology.