Analyzing the Fable 'The Wolf and the Lamb' by La Fontaine

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In this analysis of 'The Wolf and the Lamb' fable by La Fontaine, we delve into the essence of two animals, the wolf and the lamb, through the lenses of science and art. Exploring their fundamental differences, we witness La Fontaine's talent in crafting unique artistic portrayals.

Prompt: Analyzing 'The Wolf and the Lamb' Fable by La Fontaine

Sample essay: Analyzing 'The Wolf and the Lamb' Fable by La Fontaine

Essay:

Art in literature is the realm where reality flourishes, delving into the inner lives of each character. In contrast, scientific texts delve into natural studies and draw conclusions about objects. 'The Wolf and the Lamb' in La Fontaine's fables is a renowned study by Hypolite Ten, comparing and exploring the differences between scientific and artistic texts. From different perspectives, the wolf and the lamb exhibit contrasting characteristics. The wolf, a ruthless and cruel species, sometimes evokes immense pity. The lamb, a 'divine folk', timid and weak, yet harboring deep kindness and goodness.

Hypolite Ten (1828-1893) was a distinguished French philosopher, historian, and literary researcher, a member of the French Academy. La Fontaine and his fables were a famous study by Ten, written in 1853. 'The Wolf and the Lamb' excerpt is from Chapter II, the second part of his work. The comparison of the wolf and lamb's images in the perspectives of La Fontaine and Buiphong highlighted the artistic characteristic of imprinting the artist's views and perceptions.

Ten borrowed La Fontaine's fable 'The Wolf and the Lamb' to be the subject of his study. The characters of the wolf and the lamb represent two opposing forces. One side is the tyrant, cruel, ruthless, and cunning. The other side is the helpless, pitiful lamb.

In his renowned work on Ethology, Buy-phong vividly illustrates the natural traits of sheep as 'stupid and timid.' Consequently, sheep tend to flock together, never daring to stray, even the slightest noise causing them to huddle. He describes sheep as 'timid and foolish,' as they 'lack the instinct to flee danger.' Their foolishness makes them easy prey, unable to escape or resist due to their inherent weakness and timidity. According to Buy-phong, sheep are slow and inflexible, standing motionless 'under rain or falling snow,' seemingly unaware of their discomfort, sticking to their routine lives. They move only when prompted by a leader, following blindly. Even the leader may hesitate, requiring the shepherd's urging or the dog's prodding.

Unlike Buy-phong, poet La-phong-ten portrays sheep through their inner lives. His sheep are 'gentle and kind,' embodying sacred maternal love. A mother sheep can recognize her offspring amid a crowd with a simple call. She stands patiently for hours on end to nurse her young, her face displaying 'patience, eyes gazing absentmindedly ahead,' enduring the cold and fatigue to fulfill her maternal duty. La-phong-ten's artistic eye sees through the sheep's soul, evoking compassion and sympathy for these pitiful creatures.

When it comes to wolves, we all know them as wild, cruel beasts always thirsting for blood. Yet, with his sensitivity and depth, La-phong-ten discovers another aspect of wolves, 'miserable and unfortunate.' Despite being thieves, they too evoke pity, always wearing a 'shabby' and 'worried' expression, fearful when pursued. While ferocious, wolves are also vulnerable, hungry and prone to being 'beaten.' La-phong-ten's wolves are cunning and malicious, using deceitful words to lure in young sheep, their character complex, showing both terror and pity. Though cruel, they are also clumsy and inept, constantly falling victim to schemes, hungry and degraded. While La-phong-ten 'creates a comedy of foolishness,' Buy-phong presents a 'tragedy of cruelty.' Solitary creatures, wolves dislike gathering in packs; when they do, it's surely for a noisy, chaotic battle, attacking large prey such as deer, cattle, or elk. After the chase, they return to a life of 'silence and solitude.' Wild, foul-smelling, and destructive, wolves are 'irritating in every way.' According to Buy-phong, wolves are truly detestable creatures, 'harmful in life, useless in death.'

Ten's excerpt successfully juxtaposes the sheep and wolf images in La Phong-ten's fables alongside the scientific studies of Buy-phong, highlighting the hallmark of artistic creation, creativity, and the ability to perceive phenomena from various angles, both real and humane. Ten also points out the difference between scientific and artistic texts. While scientific texts focus on studying the characteristics and natural qualities of objects, artistic texts delve deep into the souls of each character, under the rich, multifaceted perspective of the writer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fundamental differences between the wolf and the lamb in La Fontaine's fable?

In La Fontaine's fable, the wolf represents cruelty and cunning, while the lamb symbolizes innocence and kindness. This stark contrast highlights their opposing characteristics, illustrating the themes of power and vulnerability.

How does Hypolite Ten analyze La Fontaine's fable of 'The Wolf and the Lamb'?

Hypolite Ten examines the fable by comparing artistic and scientific perspectives, emphasizing how La Fontaine portrays the wolf's complexity and the lamb's innocence, revealing deeper insights into human nature and societal dynamics.

What artistic elements does La Fontaine use in his portrayal of the wolf and the lamb?

La Fontaine employs rich imagery and emotional depth, showcasing the wolf's cunning nature and the lamb's gentle spirit. This artistic approach invites readers to empathize with both characters, highlighting their moral implications.

What insights does Buy-phong provide about sheep in his studies compared to La Fontaine?

Buy-phong characterizes sheep as timid and foolish, focusing on their natural instincts. In contrast, La Fontaine's portrayal emphasizes the emotional and nurturing aspects of sheep, showcasing their inner lives and maternal instincts.

How do the contrasting portrayals of wolves in La Fontaine's and Buy-phong's works differ?

While La Fontaine presents wolves as complex, evoking both terror and pity, Buy-phong depicts them solely as cruel and detestable creatures. This difference highlights varying perceptions of morality and nature in literature.

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