# The Oxen and the Butchers explained — Aesop's Fables

> Chapter companion for Aesop's Fables by Aesop.

## What happens

The Oxen plot to kill the Butchers for their slaughter, but an old Ox advises against it, warning that inexperienced replacements would cause greater suffering.

## Themes in this chapter

### Wisdom and Foolishness

The old Ox's prudent advice contrasts with the violent impulsiveness of the younger Oxen.

### Justice and Consequence

The Oxen's desire for revenge is tempered by consideration of unintended consequences.

## Character check-ins

### The Ox

The old Ox who counsels patience and warns against the plan.

## Key lines

> My brothers, you have good reason, I know, to hate these Butchers, but, at any rate, they understand their trade and do what they have to do without causing unnecessary pain.

The old Ox acknowledges the Oxen's hatred for the Butchers but points out that the Butchers are skilled and minimize suffering.

_The old Ox argues that experienced butchers are preferable to inexperienced ones._

> But if we kill them, others, who have no experience, will be set to slaughter us, and will by their bungling inflict great sufferings upon us.

If the Oxen kill the Butchers, inexperienced replacements will cause them even more pain.

_The old Ox warns that the plan would backfire._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fables_se/chapters/the-oxen-and-the-butchers
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fables_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/fables_se/chapters