Reading Notes (week 3)

Aesop
Source: Aesop

The Eagle and the Jackdaw

According to Wikipedia, the Jackdaw is a monogamous bird that resides in trees, cliffs, and buildings constructing nests with sticks. It is a member of the crow family and can be found across Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The Jackdaw portrayed in this story is filled full of himself and has some grandiose ideas of his abilities.

The Wolf and the Kid

According to Goat World, a baby goat is referred to as a kid. The term extends to any baby goat, male or female,under 6 months of age. Billy is also a name used for a male goat. Female goats over the age of 6 months are generally called doelings and male goats over the age of 6 months are called bucklings. Mature females are referred to as a does and a mature male goat is a buck. When a male goat is castrated, he is called a wether. A group of goats is referred to as a trip, herd or tribe. Possibly not by mistake, the Kid in this story experiences a little rebelliousness, leading him to trouble. Luckily this kid has some street smarts which gets him out of a bad situation.

The Tortoise and The Ducks

A simply tale of the grass is always greener with a twist of vanity. Poor tortoise is so discontented, however when given the opportunity to change his perspective temporarily, tortoise shows his insecurities and vanity rather than enjoying the ride. His actions result in dire consequences. Few lessons can be learned by the deceased.

The Ass and His Driver

I love reading fables by Aesop. The short, simple, brimming with life’s lessons stories always bring a smile to my face. The morals at the end of the story remind me of fortune cookies on steroids. After reading the story of this stubborn ass, whose actions led to his own death, I wonder if the sentiment “you are as stubborn as an ass” can be traced back to this story.

The Lion and the Ass - Aesop (Winter): Page 4

A story of such few words but contains such an important message and valuable advice. The proud Lion had obviously earned respect and garnered admiration of the forest animals. He, as we all should, ignored those trying to tear him down.

Biography: Aesop (winter), The Aesop for Children, http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/aesop-winter-page-1.html