Indian Fairy Tales · Question
How does Indian Fairy Tales develop the theme of Gratitude and Ingratitude?
Answer
Indian Fairy Tales by Joseph Jacobs develops Gratitude and Ingratitude across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
A recurring theme across multiple tales, such as 'The Lion and the Crane' and 'The Tiger, the Brahman, and the Jackal,' where animals or humans perform good deeds only to be met with ingratitude or betrayal, highlighting the moral value of thankfulness.
The lion's refusal to thank the crane and the tiger's ingratitude toward Gangazara highlight the consequences of ingratitude.
The crane saves the lion's life, but the lion refuses any return of gratitude, prompting the crane's rebuke and departure.
The Ant-Raja and the tiger both express gratitude for the prince's kindness, promising future help, contrasting with the king's harsh conditions.
Evidence in the book
- Indian Fairy Tales
The lion's refusal to thank the crane and the tiger's ingratitude toward Gangazara highlight the consequences of ingratitude.
- The Lion and the Crane
The crane saves the lion's life, but the lion refuses any return of gratitude, prompting the crane's rebuke and departure.
- How the Raja’s Son Won the Princess Labam
The Ant-Raja and the tiger both express gratitude for the prince's kindness, promising future help, contrasting with the king's harsh conditions.
- The Tiger, the Brahman, and the Jackal
The tiger's ingratitude after being freed contrasts with the Brahman's initial kindness, and the pipal tree, buffalo, and road all argue that ingratitude is common in the world.
- The Soothsayer's Son
The tiger, serpent, and rat show gratitude to Gangazara for rescuing them, while the goldsmith repays his rescue with betrayal, highlighting the contrast between animal loyalty and human ingratitude.
- The Charmed Ring
The snake repays the merchant's son's kindness with magical gifts, while the ogress and prince act ungratefully by stealing the ring.
- The Talkative Tortoise
The tortoise's ingratitude toward his friends' help leads to his downfall, as he fails to follow their instructions.
- The Gold-Giving Serpent
The son's ingratitude toward the serpent's generosity destroys the bond, and the serpent later refuses to forgive the father despite his offerings.
