Quotations by Aesop I

Aesop was a Greek slave who lived more than 2500 years ago. Although born a slave, he was given freedom because of the humor and wisdom of his stories. He became an advisor to the king. To read his detailed Biography, click here.

Not much else is known about him but some ancient historians wrote that he was black. Others wrote that he was disabled or deformed, but did not describe his disability.

His stories are called fables. They are usually about animals, but the animals often act like people. The fables usually offer a moral or good advice on living. To read his stories click here.

By using fables and talking about animals, Aesop could criticize or advise powerful people without insulting them.

The gods help them that help themselves.


Beware that you do not lose the substance by grasping at the shadow.


The little reed, bending to the force of the wind, soon stood upright again when
the storm had passed over.


Appearances often are deceiving.


Don't count your chickens before they are hatched.


Outside show is a poor substitute for inner worth.


Be content with your lot; one cannot be first in everything.


It is in vain to expect our prayers to be heard, if we do not strive as well as pray.


The haft of the arrow had been feathered with one of the eagle's own plumes. We
often give our enemies the means of our own destruction.


It is not only fine feathers that make fine birds.


Enemies promises were made to be broken.


A crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety.


Please all, and you will please none.


Men often applaud an imitation and hiss the real thing.


A doubtful friend is worse than a certain enemy. Let a man be one thing or the other, and we then know how to meet him.


Wealth unused might as well not exist.


Fools take to themselves the respect that is given to their office.


No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.


The injuries we do and those we suffer are seldom weighed in the same scales.


Any excuse will serve a tyrant.


In union there is strength.


We would often be sorry if our wishes were gratified.

It is easy to be brave from a safe distance.

Better be wise by the misfortunes of others than by your own.

We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office.

It is with our passions, as it is with fire and water, they are good servants but bad masters.