Question

A fly bit the bare head of a bald man who, endeavoring to destroy it, gave himself a heavy slap. Escaping, the fly said mockingly, "You who have wished to revenge, even with death, the prick of a tiny insect, see what you have done to yourself to add insult to injury?" The bald man replied, "I can easily make peace with myself, because I know there was no intention to hurt. But you, an ill-favored and contemptible insect who delights in sucking human blood, I wish that I could have killed you even if I had incurred a heavier penalty."

Revenge will hurt the avenger.
Question
When Ian read this fable, he reflected on some of his attitudes toward different situations in his life. Which change in attitude is Ian likely to exhibit after reflecting on this story?
Responses
A Ian is now going to refrain from getting back at his enemies.Ian is now going to refrain from getting back at his enemies.
B Ian is now going to work harder at getting people back who hurt him.Ian is now going to work harder at getting people back who hurt him.
C Ian is now going to work harder in school and try to make straight A's.Ian is now going to work harder in school and try to make straight A's.
D Ian is now going to be more generous with his time and kinder to others.

Answer 1

A. Ian is now going to refrain from getting back at his enemies.

This option aligns best with the moral of the fable, which emphasizes that revenge can hurt the person seeking it. The bald man's realization that he harmed himself in his quest for revenge against the fly suggests that Ian may consider the consequences of his own actions and choose to let go of any desire for retribution.