The Best of Aesop's Fables
No one knew if Aesop existed, even if Herodotus mentioned his name in his writings. In fact, the ancient Greeks would tell stories of an unattractive slave and his entertaining fables. It was his ticket to freedom.
If Aesop lived, then he would be flattered of comparisons of his fables to Greek myths. They have universal appeal. Most of the stories featured animals, which he used to illustrate a particular moral or two. Would his fables lost its appeal if humans dominated it? Maybe. There was something unique about animals and their follies. It was easy to judge them, without the risk of being called self-righteous and hypocritical. Aesop would be honored with the Nobel Prize.
Aesop's fables were hard to count, but many stood out for its strong message. Here are the best of the lot:
The Fox and the Grapes. Some would see this tale as a case of despising something that you cannot have, but it would have a broader message. Nowadays, a sour grape can be synonymous to a sore loser. It's typical in sports, but Aesop would warn the danger of envy. It's not difficult to spot a fox in our midst.
The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs. This is a classic tale of greed, about a couple who can't have enough of good fortune. Some may be saddened to think that this fable may be lost in the consumerist era, but Aesop also pointed out an important aspect of human nature. We have been reminded about the virtue of simple living, but success prompts us to want more. And we still struggle to find a balance.
The Mischievous Dog. Many would find it ironic that this fable was largely ignored. It was how notoriety was often mistaken for fame, which couch potatoes often seen on the small screen. Times may have changed, but Aesop believed on conscious voices in the wilderness.
The Ass, the Fox, and the Lion. This was a stern warming on those who tempt to betray a friend, for whatever reason. Not that most of the human race don't have high regard of friendship, but human nature can be fickle and complicated. It can also be treacherous, which this short tale has shown. And there can't be a better representation than the ass, the fox, and the lion. Anyone who is familiar in animal behavior know the reason.
The Crow and the Pitcher. Many of Aesop's fables point out man's shortcoming, but some illustrate his virtues. The crow, a menacing representation in Gothic tales, was resourceful and patient in this inspiring story. And we must take comfort.
