Aesop

The Bear and the Fox

Summary

This short fable illustrates a lesson about hypocrisy and true intentions. It follows a Bear who proudly claims that he respects humans so much he won't touch their dead bodies, portraying himself as morally superior. However, a Fox, hearing the Bear's boast, cleverly points out the flaw in his reasoning, suggesting that it would be better if the Bear, who actually preys on living beings, would spare the living instead of showing respect for the dead. The story uses animal characters to impart moral guidance, encouraging readers to reflect on the difference between genuine virtue and empty words. It's a useful tale for teaching children about the importance of sincere actions over hollow promises.

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A Bear boasted very much of his philanthropy, saying that of all animals he was the most tender in his regard for man, for he had such respect for him that he would not even touch his dead body. A Fox hearing these words said with a smile to the Bear, “Oh! that you would eat the dead and not the living.”

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