The Sparrow and the Hare

Summary

This fable illustrates the themes of misfortune, arrogance, and the unexpected nature of fate. It centers on a Hare who, after being pounced upon by an eagle, cries out in distress. A Sparrow mocks the Hare’s lack of speed, but before long, the Sparrow himself is seized by a hawk. In a turn of fate, as the Hare lies dying, she finds comfort in the ironic justice served to the Sparrow, who soon suffers a misfortune similar to her own. This story teaches the moral lesson that one should not mock others in distress, as circumstances can change swiftly and unexpectedly, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the importance of humility.

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A Hare pounced upon by an eagle sobbed very much and uttered cries like a child. A Sparrow upbraided her and said, “Where now is thy remarkable swiftness of foot? Why were your feet so slow?” While the Sparrow was thus speaking, a hawk suddenly seized him and killed him. The Hare was comforted in her death, and expiring said, “Ah! you who so lately, when you supposed yourself safe, exulted over my calamity, have now reason to deplore a similar misfortune.”