The Cock And The Fox (2nd Fable) Flashcards
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Flashcard Review
Flashcards: The Cock And The Fox (2nd Fable)
What is the moral of "The Cock and the Fox" (2nd Fable)?
The moral is "The wicked deserve no aid." Aesop teaches that compassion should not be extended to those caught in the act of wrongdoing who use sympathy to escape the consequences of their own predatory behavior.
How is this fable different from the other "Cock and Fox" fable?
In the more famous version, a Fox tries to lure a Cock down from a tree by announcing that all animals have agreed to live in peace. The Cock outwits the Fox by mentioning approaching dogs. In this second version, the situation is reversed: the Fox is already trapped, and the Cock must decide whether to help him or alert the Farmer.
Why does the Fox lie to the Cock?
The Fox claims he was visiting a sick relative and accidentally stumbled into the trap. This lie is designed to make the Cock feel sympathy and avoid reporting him. The Fox frames his request as a small, harmless favor rather than what it truly is—a plea to escape justice after being caught near the hen house.
What does the Cock's decision reveal about wisdom?
The Cock demonstrates practical wisdom by refusing to be swayed by the Fox's emotional manipulation. Rather than debating the Fox's story, he acts decisively to protect the community by alerting the hen yard and the Farmer. His choice shows that true wisdom means evaluating someone's actions, not just their words.
Is "The wicked deserve no aid" too harsh a moral for children?
The moral is not about withholding compassion from everyone who suffers. It specifically addresses those who are caught doing wrong and try to use sympathy to avoid consequences. For children, the lesson is about recognizing manipulation—understanding that feeling sorry for someone does not mean you should help them continue harmful behavior.
What is the Perry Index number for this fable?
This particular version of "The Cock and the Fox" does not appear in the standard Perry Index, which catalogs classical Aesop fables. However, the related "Cock, Dog, and Fox" tale is Perry Index 252. This version was preserved and popularized through later English collections by Samuel Croxall and Thomas Bewick.
What does the Fox symbolize in Aesop's fables?
In Aesop's fables, the Fox typically represents cunning, deception, and self-interest. The Fox appears in more fables than almost any other animal and is usually portrayed as clever but morally questionable. In this story, the Fox's intelligence is turned toward manipulation, but it fails against the Cock's clear-eyed judgment.
What other Aesop fables explore themes of justice and deception?
Several Aesop fables deal with cunning, consequences, and moral judgment. <a href="/author/aesop/short-story/the-fox-without-a-tail/" class="al-title">The Fox Without a Tail</a> shows a fox trying to trick others into sharing his misfortune. <a href="/author/aesop/short-story/the-grasshopper-and-the-ant/" class="al-title">The Grasshopper and the Ant</a> explores accountability and the consequences of poor choices. <a href="/author/aesop/short-story/the-north-wind-and-the-sun/" class="al-title">The North Wind and the Sun</a> contrasts force with persuasion. <a href="/author/aesop/short-story/the-fox-and-the-crow/" class="al-title">The Fox and the Crow</a> warns against falling for flattery.