Aesop

The Old Lion

Summary

This story is a fable about an aging lion who is once a powerful king of the beasts but has now become frail and weak. As the lion lies helpless and near death, various animals, including a boar, a bull, and even a lowly donkey, attack and mock him. The tale highlights themes of the inevitable decline that comes with age, the loss of power and respect once bestowed upon those who were strong, and the cruelty and opportunism of others who seize the chance to attack when a strong figure falls. The story serves as a cautionary reflection on the temporary nature of power and strength, illustrating that respect based solely on strength may not endure.

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A Lion had grown very old. His teeth were worn away. His limbs could no longer bear him, and the King of Beasts was very pitiful indeed as he lay gasping on the ground, about to die.

Where now his strength and his former graceful beauty?

Now a Boar spied him, and rushing at him, gored him with his yellow tusk. A Bull trampled him with his heavy hoofs. Even a contemptible Ass let fly his heels and brayed his insults in the face of the Lion.

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