The Peacock and the Crane by Aesop for ESL students with a podcast, vocabulary practice in real context and Persian version
The Peacock and the Crane is now in the public domain available on Gutenberg Project.
Podcast of the Peacock and the Crane
The Peacock and the Crane
A peacock taunted a crane with the dullness of her plumage.
- taunt: ridicule, mock, tease, criticize
- crane: a bird with a long neck and legs that lives on plains
- plumage: feathers of birds
- dull: lacking vividness or brightness of color or hue
“Look at my brilliant colors,” said she, “and see how much finer they are than your poor feathers.”
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“I am not denying,” replied the crane, “that yours are far gayer than mine; but when it comes to flying, I can soar into the clouds, whereas you are confined to the earth like any cock that cannot fly.”
- gayer: brighter, more colorful
- whereas: however, although
- confined: restricted, limited, restrained
The Peacock and the Crane Narrated by Bita Hariri Asl
Discussion Questions
- What lesson does the Peacock learn about the value of beauty versus practicality by the end of the fable?
- How does the Crane’s ability to fly contrast with the Peacock’s beautiful but heavy feathers in the story?
- What do you think the author is trying to convey about the importance of being content with one’s own unique qualities and abilities?
The peacock and the crane by Aesop emphasizes that being too proud of looks or talents can make us forget to appreciate others’ strengths. Meanwhile, everyone has especial talent or ability. The crane notices that It’s not just how we look that matters, but what we can do and how we use our abilities.
Indeed, you make an excellent point. The fable “The Peacock and the Crane” really drives home the importance of recognizing and valuing the unique strengths and abilities that each of us possesses. It’s a reminder that while external beauty or talents can be impressive, they should not overshadow the diverse and valuable qualities that others bring to the table. The Crane’s practical ability to fly illustrates the idea that true worth often lies in what we can achieve and how we utilize our gifts, rather than just our outward appearance.