# The Rogue and the Oracle explained — Aesop's Fables

> Chapter companion for Aesop's Fables by Aesop.

## What happens

A rogue attempts to discredit the Oracle at Delphi by asking a trick question about a bird hidden in his cloak, but the Oracle outwits him by pointing out that the answer depends on the rogue's own intention.

## Themes in this chapter

### Cunning and Deception

The rogue's attempt to trick the Oracle with a hidden bird and a loaded question exemplifies cunning and deception.

### Wisdom and Foolishness

The Oracle's wise reply exposes the rogue's foolishness, showing that true wisdom sees through deceit.

## Character check-ins

### The Rogue

The rogue tries to deceive the Oracle by concealing a bird and asking a loaded question.

## Key lines

> Stranger, whether the thing that you hold in your hand be alive or dead is a matter that depends entirely on your own will.

The Oracle tells the rogue that the bird's state is determined by the rogue's own choice.

_The Oracle's response reveals the futility of trying to deceive an all-knowing source._

## Links

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