The Ass Dressed In The LionS Skin

By Jean de La Fontaine

Fable
[1]      Clad in a lion's shaggy hide,      An ass spread terror far and wide,      And, though himself a coward brute,      Put all the world to scampering rout:      But, by a piece of evil luck,      A portion of an ear outstuck,      Which soon reveal'd the error      Of all the panic-terror.      Old Martin did his office quick.      Surprised were all who did not know the trick,      To see that Martin,[2] at his will,      Was driving lions to the mill!      In France, the men are not a few      Of whom this fable proves too true;      Whose valour chiefly doth reside      In coat they wear and horse they ride.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This satirical fable-esque poem employs anthropomorphism to deliver a critique of pretentious and deceptive personas. The central characters—an ass disguised as a lion and a character named Martin—depict a parable about the illusion of power and the discovery of truth. The poem's tone is both humorous and mocking, using irony and the surprise twist to challenge the initial perception of the ass-lion.

The poem's structure is cleanly divided into two sections: the first detailing the deceptive scare created by the ass and the second, the revelation of its true identity by Martin. This clear demarcation underscores the theme of appearance versus reality. The poem uses the literary device of a fable, traditionally meant to convey a moral lesson, to highlight the foolishness of those who rely on appearances for their valor. The line, "In coat they wear and horse they ride," is a biting comment on the superficiality of a society that equates appearance with worthiness or bravery.

Notably, the poem's diction and meter contribute to its engaging storytelling style, while its use of rhymes adds a rhythmic, playful quality. The reference to France suggests a specific cultural or political critique, implying that the message is not just a general human observation but directed towards a particular group. Overall, the poem serves as a witty critique of superficiality and pretense, using the fable format to express its message with humor and a moral undertone.

Understanding Fables

A fable is a timeless form of storytelling, typically featuring animals as characters that embody human traits, all while conveying a moral lesson. These short narratives have been used throughout history to impart wisdom, offering insights that remain relevant across generations.

Fables stand out for their simplicity and clarity, often concluding with a lesson that is easy to understand and remember. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Animal Characters: The main characters are often animals that represent human behaviors and characteristics, making the stories both engaging and relatable.
  • Concise Narrative: Fables are brief and focused, with each story centering around a single event or interaction that leads to a moral conclusion.
  • Moral Lesson: The purpose of a fable is to teach a lesson, which is usually stated clearly at the end, offering practical advice or ethical guidance.

From Aesop's ancient tales to modern adaptations, fables continue to be a powerful tool for education and moral reflection, resonating with audiences of all ages.