# The Crab and His Mother explained — Aesop's Fables

> Chapter companion for Aesop's Fables by Aesop.

## What happens

An Old Crab criticizes her son for walking sideways, but when she tries to demonstrate walking straight herself, she fails, realizing that setting a good example is more effective than giving advice.

## Themes in this chapter

### Wisdom and Foolishness

The Old Crab's foolishness in finding fault without first examining her own behavior, and the wisdom gained through self-reflection.

## Character check-ins

### The Crab

The Old Crab who criticizes her son but fails to set a proper example.

## Key lines

> Example is better than precept.

Actions speak louder than words; demonstrating proper behavior is more effective than merely instructing others.

_The moral of the fable, emphasizing the importance of leading by example._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fables_se/chapters/the-crab-and-his-mother
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fables_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fables_se/chapters