Aesop (c620–c560BC), Greek slave & fable author
The smaller the mind the greater the conceit.
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.
Any excuse will serve a tyrant. (The Wolf and the Lamb)
What a splendid head, yet no brain.
Be content with your lot; one cannot be first in everything.
People often grudge others what they cannot enjoy themselves.
In critical moments even the very powerful have need of the weakest.
It is easy to be brave from a safe distance.
Never trust the advice of a man in difficulties.
Persuasion is often more effectual than force.
United we stand, divided we fall.
The gods help them that help themselves.
It is thrifty to prepare today for the wants of tomorrow.
The shaft 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.
Familiarity breeds contempt.
Self-conceit may lead to self-destruction.
Thinking to get at once all the gold the goose could give, he killed it and opened it only to find – nothing. (The Goose with the Golden Eggs)
Slow and steady wins the race. (The Hare and the Tortoise)
No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. (The Lion and the Mouse)
Do not count your chickens before they are hatched. (The Milkmaid and Her Pail)
We would often be sorry if our wishes were gratified.
A crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety.
Appearances often are deceiving. (The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing)
Better be wise by the misfortunes of others than by your own.
