The Boy Who Cried Wolf
Aesop's Fables
The Boy Who Cried Wolf, an Aesop’s fable, tells the story of a young boy who is sent to keep and eye on the sheep in the field, to make sure they remain safe. While on watch in the field the boy calls “WOLF! WOLF! WOLF!” to attract the attention of the villagers. Upon hearing his cries the villagers run to help the boy and the sheep. When they arrive they realize that the boy had made up the wolf, and the sheep were perfectly safe. They explain the boy that it is important not to lie, and return to the village. Once alone again the child cries “WOLF! WOLF! WOLF!”, the villagers come rushing to his aid once more. This time, when they realize that there is no wolf, the villagers reprimand the boy and inform him once again that it is important not to lie. The villagers leave again. Suddenly, a wolf enters the field, the boy begins to cry “WOLF! WOLF! WOLF!”, but this time, despite his pleas, no one comes to help.
Both the story, and the moral from The Boy who Cried Wolf strongly relate to social justice. Using this story to teach students the importance of not "crying wolf", can be extremely powerful. The importance of being honest and truthful is more prominent in this fable than in many others; the students will be able to resolve what the moral is without even being told. After all,
Both the story, and the moral from The Boy who Cried Wolf strongly relate to social justice. Using this story to teach students the importance of not "crying wolf", can be extremely powerful. The importance of being honest and truthful is more prominent in this fable than in many others; the students will be able to resolve what the moral is without even being told. After all,
“No one believes a liar...even when he is telling the truth.”