The Ass in the Lion’s Skin by Aesop for ESL students based on the English Immersion Program with a podcast and vocabulary practice in real context
The Ass in the Lion’s Skin is now in the public domain available on Gutenberg Project.
Podcast of the Ass in the Lion’s Skin
The Ass in the Lion’s Skin
An ass found a lion’s skin, and dressed himself up in it. Then he went about frightening every one he met, for they all took him to be a lion, men and beasts alike, and took to their heels when they saw him coming.
Elated by the success of his trick, he loudly brayed in triumph. The fox heard him, and recognized him at once for the ass he was, and said to him, “Oho, my friend, it’s you, is it? I, too, should have been afraid if I hadn’t heard your voice.”
English proverbs from the short story
Fine clothes may disguise, but silly words will disclose a fool.
This proverb captures the idea that outward appearance can be deceiving, but true nature will eventually reveal itself.
All that glitters is not gold.
This proverb is a general reminder not to be fooled by appearances, as things may not be what they seem.
Vocabulary in real context
- alike: similarly, equally, likewise
- take to one’s heels: to run away quickly out of fear or danger
- elated: ecstatic, overjoyed, thrilled
- bray: make the sound of a donkey, speak with a harsh voice
- triumph: victory, achievement, conquest
- recognize: identify
- at once: immediately
Questions and answers
Answer the following questions about the fable in the comment box below.
- In this short story, what advantage did the donkey think he gained by wearing the lion’s skin?
- When the donkey brayed, what element of his disguise did it ultimately betray?
- What lesson does the fable teach about the difference between true strength and relying on appearances?
True strength comes from within. So, it is enduring and stand firm in one’s values, even in difficult times. While relying on appearances is often a fragile form of strength. So, appearances are temporary and can be easily removed.
This story remind people to look deeper and not judge things based on their outer appearance. It’s a warning against being deceived by appearances, as something that seems beautiful, promising, or successful may not have true worth underneath.
That’s a great interpretation of “The Ass in the Lion’s Skin.” You’ve rightly identified the core message: the distinction between genuine inner strength and the deceptive facade of outward appearances. The fable effectively illustrates how relying on borrowed or superficial attributes is ultimately unsustainable. Your point about true strength being rooted in values and resilience resonates deeply, contrasting sharply with the ass’s fleeting and easily exposed deception.