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Aesop's Fables · Chapter

The Crow and the Raven explained

A Crow, jealous of the Raven's revered status as a bird of omen, tries to imitate its ominous calls to gain respect from travelers.

What happens

A Crow, jealous of the Raven's revered status as a bird of omen, tries to imitate its ominous calls to gain respect from travelers. However, the travelers quickly recognize the Crow and dismiss its cawing as meaningless, highlighting the folly of pretending to be something one is not.

Themes in this chapter

  • Appearance vs. Reality

    The Crow tries to appear as an omen-bringer like the Raven, but its true nature is quickly revealed, making it ridiculous.

  • Pride and Folly

    The Crow's prideful desire for respect leads to a foolish attempt at imitation, resulting in humiliation.

Characters to notice

  • The Crow

    Jealous of the Raven's reputation, attempts to mimic its ominous call but is easily dismissed by travelers.

  • The Raven

    Regarded as a bird of omen that foretells the future, held in great respect by men.

Key passages

  • “Those who pretend to be something they are not only make themselves ridiculous.”

    People who try to be what they aren't only end up looking foolish.

    The moral of the fable, emphasizing the folly of pretense.

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