There may not be any value at all. Social media would give everyone an opinion, which could pass up the posts that deserve notice. Democracy, as we should know it, would be so different from its early concept when the fable should be first known to human civilization. Historians were pointing to Aesop, supposedly a slave during the Hellenic period. But some suspected that some of his fables have Syrian origins. In other words, Aesop's background may be traced back to Mesopotamia. His family might have been well-off, but a series of unfortunate events turned him into a pauper. Some literary aficionados would go too far, as they wondered if Aesop was able to have an audience with Alexander the Great. If not Alexander, then Philip II of Macedon, his father. It could have happened back then.
Most of Aesop's fables featured animals with human qualities, and their (short) stories were supposed to impart moral lessons to those who were willing to listen to it. If these were humans, then the likes of Aesop may not have lived long. Then again, these very stories could be the reason why this legendary storyteller didn't get to be a free man. Time would add a perspective to anything, and in the case of fables, it turned into a literary genre. It was pointless to argue against it, as these tales could entertain young readers (and those who weren't jaded enough). Moreover, a fable or two would be a good addition to a novel (or a novella for that matter). If you happen to be an English major student, if not a heavy reader, then it may take you some time to recall one title that could be used as an illustration. (On the other hand, you have read too many titles to remember one.)
If you're in an adventurous mood, then you should have the time to read the rest of this post. Here are five fables:
The Bear and the Fox. This anecdote is less than a hundred words long (or five lines), but it's hard to ignore the message. (A bear will claim its generous side, not touching a carcass of a dead animal. The fox reminds him that it's not a case when he's hungry.) A hypocritical bear might be guilty of being delusional, even deceiving the very animals who are below him in the food chain. Pride can turn it into a gray issue.
Hercules and the Wagoner. This may be a bit of proof that Aesop's fables have its Greek origins; a wagoner is wailing about the wheels of his wagon stuck in a muddy lane. He asks for the god's help, but Hercules would appear to remind that the gods assist those who help themselves. Many virtues will come into mind in this story, such as initiative, persistence, and that can-do attitude. Everyone can relate to the wagoner at one point (of his/her life).
The Lion and the Three Bulls. The lion is aware that one animal is no match against three (animals). The bulls are aware that they won't end up as dead meat if they stick together. The lion is cunning enough to spread malicious hints, which will lead to the bulls being cold and unfriendly to one another. This tale illustrates how the quarrels of friends can be the opportunities of foes, but most readers will see it the other way. United we stand, divided we fall.
The Two Pots. The earthenware pot will keep on reminding the brass pot not to get near him. The subtle message is a caution to anyone who is wishing a long, lasting friendship. (If you haven't figured it out, then it will be equals making the best friends.)
The Mouse and the Bull. A mischievous mouse loves to bite the nose of the bull. The big mammal is unable to get even, as his tiny foe slips into a hole in a wall. Many readers won't guess the main message of the tale, where the strong ones don't always win the battles. It takes wit and strategy at times.
Everyone knows about the tale of the rabbit and the turtle, but let's reserve it for next time.
