Hercules and the Wagoner from Aesop’s Fables A Farmer was driving his wagon along a miry country road after a heavy rain. The horses could hardly drag the load through the deep mud, and at last came to a standstill when one of the wheels sank to the hub in a rut. The farmer climbed down from his seat and stood beside the wagon looking at it but without making the least effort to get it out of the rut. All he did was to curse his bad luck and call loudly on Hercules to come to his aid. Then, it is said, Hercules really did appear, saying: “Put your shoulder to the wheel, man, and urge on your horses. Do you think you can move the wagon by simply looking at it and whining about it? Hercules will not help unless you make some effort to help yourself.” And when the farmer put his shoulder to the wheel and urged on the horses, the wagon moved very readily, and soon the Farmer was riding along in great content and with a good lesson learned. Guide Questions: 1. What is the conflict in the story? 2. What type of conflict is it? 3. What was the violent way of the wagoner in solving the problem? 4. What was the non-violent way of the wagoner in solving the problem? 5. What is the beauty of solving conflicts in a non-violent way?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answers:
- What is the conflict in the story?
The conflict in the story is that the farmer’s wagon gets stuck in deep mud, and he is unable to move it forward. - What type of conflict is it?
This is a man versus nature conflict, as the farmer is struggling against the natural elements like mud and rain. - What was the violent way of the wagoner in solving the problem?
The violent way of the wagoner was shouting, cursing his bad luck, and blaming external forces without taking real action. - What was the non-violent way of the wagoner in solving the problem?
The non-violent way was when the farmer listened to Hercules, stopped complaining, and used his own strength along with the horses to push the wagon out of the mud. - What is the beauty of solving conflicts in a non-violent way?
The beauty of solving conflicts in a non-violent way lies in achieving solutions through effort, cooperation, and calm thinking rather than through anger, blame, or aggression.
s Explanation:
The fable of Hercules and the Wagoner teaches a powerful lesson about self-help and responsible action. In the story, the farmer faces a problem when his wagon becomes stuck in the muddy road. Rather than trying to solve the issue, he complains and calls on Hercules to rescue him. This shows a lack of initiative and an unwillingness to take responsibility for the situation. The conflict arises between the farmer and the natural elements, mainly the mud and rain, making it a classic man versus nature problem.
At first, the farmer’s response to the problem is emotional and unproductive. His reaction of cursing and calling for divine help without acting himself can be seen as a violent response. It is not physical violence, but a form of aggression through words and helplessness. However, when Hercules appears and advises him to take action, the farmer changes his approach. He stops complaining and begins to push the wagon himself while urging the horses to move. This shift represents a non-violent and constructive way to face the conflict.
Solving problems non-violently brings several benefits. It encourages patience, clear thinking, and personal responsibility. The story reminds us that waiting for others to solve our problems without making our own effort is futile. Through calm action and determination, challenges can be overcome more effectively. In everyday life, this lesson is valuable — problems are best solved not through anger or blame, but through thoughtful and peaceful efforts.
