The Blind Man and the Cub by Aesop for ESL students with a video or podcast, vocabulary practice in real context, and related stories from Aesop
The Blind Man and the Cub is now in the public domain available on Gutenberg Project.
Podcast of the Blind Man and the Cub
The Blind Man and the Cub
There was once a blind man who had so fine a sense of touch that, when any animal was put into his hands, he could tell what it was merely by the feel of it.
One day, the cub of a wolf was put into his hands, and he was asked what it was.
He felt it for some time, and then said, “Indeed, I am not sure whether it is a wolf’s cub or a fox’s: but this I know—it would never do to trust it in a sheepfold.”
Evil tendencies are early shown.
Vocabulary in context
- merely: only, simply, just
- cub: an offspring of a carnivorous mammal, such as a lion, bear, wolf, fox, etc.
- indeed: actually, as a matter of fact
- sheepfold: an enclosure or shelter for sheep, manger
- evil: morally bad, harmful
- tendency: general inclination, propensity
The blind man and the cub by Aesop said that wisdom isn’t just about facts—intuition and experience matter. Also, the blind man shows that true talent isn’t always obvious at first glance. Moreover, he warns that certain dangers are predictable if we pay attention to early signs. And, observing early signs helps prevent future problems.
Your interpretation of The Blind Man and the Cub is insightful! The fable indeed emphasizes the importance of intuition and experience over mere facts. The blind man’s ability to recognize the cub’s true nature despite his lack of sight highlights how wisdom goes beyond surface appearances. And you’re absolutely right—paying attention to early signs can help us foresee and prevent future dangers.