Greek storyteller (620 B.C.-564 B.C.)
Be content with what nature made you, or run the risk of earning contempt by trying to be what you're not.
AESOP
"The Vain Jackdaw", Aesop's Fables
The desire for imaginary benefits often involves the loss of present blessings.
AESOP
"The Kites and the Swans", Aesop's Fables
Wise men say nothing in dangerous times.
AESOP
Fables
A man should either not converse with kings at all, or say what is agreeable to them.
AESOP
attributed, Day's Collacon
Pride goes before destruction.
AESOP
"The Fighting Cocks and the Eagle", Aesop's Fables
Every one is more or less master of his own fate.
AESOP
"The Traveller and Fortune", Aesop's Fables
Those who return evil for good should not expect the kindness of others to last long.
AESOP
"The Countryman and the Snake", Aesop's Fables
In serving the wicked, expect no reward, and be thankful if you escape injury for your pains.
AESOP
"The Wolf and the Crane", Aesop's Fables
The greatest benefits will not bind the ungrateful.
AESOP
"The Farmer and the Snake", Aesop's Fables
Union gives strength.
AESOP
"The Bundle of Sticks", Aesop's Fables
Every man for himself.
AESOP
"The Three Tradesmen", Aesop's Fables
It is not only fine feathers that make fine birds.
AESOP
"The Jay and the Peacock", Aesop's Fables
None but those who work are entitled to eat.
AESOP
"The Brazier and His Dog", Aesop's Fables
Gentle persuasion succeeds where force fails.
AESOP
"The North Wind and the Sun", Aesop's Fables
Try as one may, it is impossible to deny one's nature.
AESOP
Fables
Stoop to conquer.
AESOP
"The Oak and the Reeds", Aesop's Fables
The smaller the mind, the greater the conceit.
AESOP
Fables
Children are not to be blamed for the faults of their parents.
AESOP
"The Two Dogs", Aesop's Fables
Beware lest you lose the substance by grasping at the shadow.
AESOP
Fables
Those who assume a character which does not belong to them, only make themselves ridiculous.
AESOP
"The Crow and Raven", Aesop's Fables