30th Annual Student Research Conference
Power Dynamics in Aesop's Fables
Jordan Noland
Prof. Alex Tetlak and Dr. Bridget Thomas, Faculty Mentors
This paper analyzes the power dynamics between the characters of the lion and the donkey in a selection of Aesop’s fables. Most people are familiar with a small selection of Aesop’s fables. Their morals and themes stick out to us as young readers and introduce us to more complex, adult problems. Most scholars believe that Aesop’s fables were used as a means of communication and entertainment for slaves, the theory possibly stemming from Aesop’s background as a slave, or the sometimes-comedic content that rises to the surface in these stories. For this reason, the fables were also looked down upon in the ancient world. Power dynamics are an issue faced by all people of all ages and classes, yet we often reserve these fables only for children. This paper argues that these fables were used in a variety of different circumstances to point out power dynamics in many situations.
Keywords: Aesop's Fables, Power Dynamics
Topic(s):Classics
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 107-3
Location: VH 1212
Time: 8:30