Fables, of Æsop and other eminent mythologists

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

79038

Title

Fables, of Æsop and other eminent mythologists

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This 1669 collection presents Aesop's fables alongside original tales by mythologists like Bias and Pausanias. Retaining period spelling and grammar, the volume offers moralizing reflections on envy, vanity, and human nature, appealing to readers seeking classical wisdom and ethical instruction.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1669, *Fables of Æsop and other eminent mythologists* is a rich anthology compiling traditional Aesop fables alongside original narratives drawn from Greek historians and mythologists such as Bias and Pausanias. The text preserves the original 17th-century spelling and grammar, offering a window into the moral and intellectual climate of the era. Each fable is accompanied by a concise moral and an expansive reflection that contextualizes the lesson within broader societal issues. The collection delves into profound themes including envy, vanity, the perils of competing with superiors, the folly of unnatural wishes, and the hypocrisy of those who claim virtue while committing vice. Stories range from the eagle and the daw to the dog in the manger and the camel praying for horns, illustrating how nature distributes gifts equally and how human ambition often leads to ruin. The reflections critique ecclesiastical avarice, political corruption, and the tendency to blame Providence for personal misfortunes. The work serves as both a repository of classical wisdom and a sharp commentary on the moral failings of society, urging readers to accept their lot with patience and to recognize the divine order governing the world. Through tales like the dog in the manger, the text exposes the self-destructive nature of envy, while the story of the camel praying for horns warns against challenging the distribution of natural gifts. The collection also addresses the dangers of unequal alliances and the insatiable thirst for power and glory, which often lead to the downfall of kingdoms and families. By examining the follies of the rich and powerful, the text advocates for humility, contentment, and a recognition of the limits of human judgment. Ultimately, the anthology stands as a timeless reminder of the importance of accepting one's station and the dangers of presuming to judge or alter the works of Providence.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Classics
• Fiction