Scribd
Upload
5 views

chapter 7

The document introduces fables, highlighting their characteristics, origins, and moral lessons, with a focus on the collection 'Kalila and Dimna.' Fables are short stories featuring anthropomorphized characters that convey ethical principles, often using humor and simple plots. 'Kalila and Dimna' specifically illustrates themes of caution, wisdom, and the contrast between cunning and strength through various narratives.

Uploaded by

Ayu Lestari
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
5 views

chapter 7

The document introduces fables, highlighting their characteristics, origins, and moral lessons, with a focus on the collection 'Kalila and Dimna.' Fables are short stories featuring anthropomorphized characters that convey ethical principles, often using humor and simple plots. 'Kalila and Dimna' specifically illustrates themes of caution, wisdom, and the contrast between cunning and strength through various narratives.

Uploaded by

Ayu Lestari
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

Intro to Art and Humanities Shagufa Sultan

Unit 06: Fables including kalila and dimna

7.1 Introduction to fables


7.2 Origin and characteristics
7.3 Analysis of Kalila and Dimna and moral lessons.
7.1 Introduction to Fables
A fable is a brief, fictional story that conveys a moral lesson. It typically features non-human
characters, such as animals or inanimate objects, which are animated to illustrate human traits
and behaviors. The purpose of a fable is to teach readers about how to behave in the world by
highlighting universal truths and moral values
Examples
 The Tortoise and the Hare: Teaches that "slow and steady wins the race," emphasizing
perseverance (using real and own potentials) over speed.
 The Lion and the Mouse: Shows that even the smallest can help the greatest,
highlighting the importance of kindness and gratitude.
7.2 Origin and Characteristics of Fables
Origin
Fables have been part of human culture for thousands of years, with evidence dating back to
ancient civilizations in Greece, China, India, and other regions. Fables are one of the oldest
forms of storytelling, originating as oral traditions thousands of years ago and found across
cultures worldwide. The word "fable" comes from the Latin fabula, meaning "story" or "tale." In
Western literature, Aesop, an ancient Greek slave and storyteller from around the 6th century
BCE, is credited with popularizing fables. His works, such as The Tortoise and the Hare and The
Fox and the Grapes, became timeless classics that convey moral lessons through
anthropomorphized animals.
In India, the Panchatantra, a collection of animal fables written in Sanskrit around the
3rd century BCE, served as a guide for teaching governance and life lessons. Fables also
flourished in other regions, including Africa, where oral traditions passed down trickster
(antihero) tales featuring clever animals. During the Middle Ages, fables gained prominence in
Europe through Latin translations of Aesop's works and were later refreshed by Jean de La
Fontaine in 17th-century France.
Characteristicsof fables
Fables are defined by several distinctive features:
1. Brevity: Fables are short stories designed to convey a moral lesson quickly.
2. Anthropomorphism: Characters are often animals, plants, or objects given human traits
to make the story relatable.
3. Moral Lesson: The central purpose of a fable is to impart ethical principles or life
wisdom. The moral is often explicitly stated at the end.
4. Simple Structure: Fables typically consist of an exposition, a straightforward conflict,
and a resolution.
5. Universal Themes: The lessons are intended to be universally applicable across cultures
and ages.
6. Humorous Tone: Many fables use humor or satire to critique human behaviors like
greed, pride, or deceit.
7. Few Characters: Most fables feature two or three characters to keep the narrative
focused.
Intro to Art and Humanities Shagufa Sultan

8. Symbolism: Animal behavior in fables symbolizes human actions and traits (e.g., foxes
represent cunning, lions bravery).
9. Simple Plot: Fables have straightforward narratives with a clear conflict and resolution.
These characteristics make fables an enduring form of storytelling that appeals to both children
and adults while teaching timeless values.
7.3 Analysis of Kalila and Dimna and Moral Lessons
Introduction to Kalila and Dimna
"Kalila and Dimna" is a collection of fables inspired by the Indian "Panchatantra." It features two
jackals, Kalila and Dimna, who narrate stories to teach moral lessons at the court of an animal
king. These stories are framed within a larger narrative involving a philosopher named Bidpai
and King Dabschelim.
Analysis and Examples
 The Monkey and the Carpenter: This tale warns against interfering in affairs that are
not one's own. A monkey tries to split wood like a carpenter but ends up getting hurt. The
moral is that one should not interfere in matters beyond their capability.
 The Hermit and the Thief: This story teaches about trust and deception. A thief tricks a
hermit by pretending to be a devoted follower, only to steal from him. The moral
emphasizes the dangers of blind trust and the importance of discernment.
 The Crow and the Black Snake: This tale shows how cunning can be used to achieve
justice. A crow seeks revenge against a snake by tricking humans into killing it. The
moral highlights the use of intelligence in overcoming adversity.
Moral Lessons
1. Caution and Wisdom: Many stories in "Kalila and Dimna" caution against rash
decisions and emphasize the importance of wisdom in navigating life's challenges.
2. Cunning vs. Strength: The tales often contrast physical strength with cunning,
suggesting that intelligence can be more powerful than brute force.
3. Trust and Deception: These stories teach readers to be cautious in forming relationships
and to avoid deception.

You might also like