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Read the fable The Fox and the Stork by Aesop to complete the activity.

At one time the Fox and the Stork were on visiting terms and seemed very good friends. So the Fox invited the Stork to dinner, and for a joke put nothing before her but some soup in a very shallow dish. This the Fox could easily lap up, but the Stork could only wet the end of her long bill in it and left the meal as hungry as when she began. "I am sorry," said the Fox, "the soup is not to your liking."
"Pray do not apologize," said the Stork. "I hope you will return this visit and come and dine with me soon." So a day was appointed when the Fox should visit the Stork; but when they were seated at table all that was for their dinner was contained in a very long-necked jar with a narrow mouth, in which the Fox could not insert his snout, so all he could manage to do was to lick the outside of the jar.

in 4-5 identifying and explaining the theme present in this passage and how it relates to any universal themes.

1 answer

The fable "The Fox and the Stork" presents several themes that can be identified and explained:

  1. Retributive Justice: The Fox's trick of serving soup in a shallow dish reflects a theme of retributive justice. His actions towards the Stork are met with a similar trick in return. This highlights the idea that actions have consequences and that one can expect to be treated in a manner that reflects how they treat others.

  2. Friendship and Trust: The initial relationship between the Fox and the Stork suggests a theme of friendship and trust. The invitation to dinner indicates an attempt at camaraderie, but the Fox’s betrayal of this trust through deceit demonstrates how manipulative behavior can undermine relationships.

  3. The Importance of Consideration: The Fox does not take into account the Stork's needs or abilities when serving dinner. This lack of consideration emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in interactions with others. It illustrates that true friendship involves being mindful of others' perspectives and circumstances.

  4. The Dangers of Pride and Deceit: The Fox's pride leads him to play a cruel joke, demonstrating how prideful behavior can blind individuals to the feelings of others. The fable suggests that deceitful actions bounce back on the deceiver, showing that one’s arrogance may lead to their own downfall.

Universal Themes:

These themes connect to universal themes such as:

  • Karma: The idea that one’s actions will ultimately lead to similar repercussions aligns with the broader concept of karma—a belief that good or bad actions will have corresponding results.

  • Empathy and Understanding: Across cultures, understanding and empathy are valued traits that promote cooperation and harmonious relationships. The fable serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of considering others' feelings and circumstances.

  • Consequences of Actions: The narrative illustrates a fundamental truth found in various storytelling traditions: our choices and behaviors have consequences, a theme that resonates across cultures and human experiences.

Overall, "The Fox and the Stork" serves as a reminder of the significance of treating others with respect and kindness, showing that careless behavior can lead to equal misfortune.