The Ass in the Lion's Skin

An Ass, having put on the Lion's skin, roamed about in the forest, and amused himself by frightening all the foolish animals he met with in his wanderings. At last meeting a Fox, he tried to frighten him also, but the Fox no sooner heard the sound of his voice, than he exclaimed, "I might possibly have been frightened myself, if I had not heard your bray."

From The Ass in the Lion's Skin by Aesop, translated by George Fyler Townsend (1867). Public domain.

Check your understanding

1. What ultimately reveals the Ass's true identity to the Fox?

The way the Ass walks through the forestThe sound the Ass makesThe poor fit of the Lion's skinThe reactions of the other animals

2. How does the Ass primarily spend his time while wearing the Lion's skin?

Hunting for prey in the forestHiding from the actual LionEntertaining himself by scaring othersSeeking the respect of the Fox

3. Formulate a thematic statement based on the fable. What argument is the text making about identity and deception? Support your answer with evidence from the Fox's reaction.

4. Analyze the author's use of the word 'foolish' to describe the animals who were frightened by the Ass. How does this word choice establish the tone and meaning of the fable?

5. Defend or challenge the following statement: 'The Ass's failure was solely due to his own arrogance.' Use evidence from the text to support your position.