The Nightingale and the Dragon – An English Folk Tale about Courage and Kindness

Summary: Long ago, the villagers at the foot of a mountain suffered under the tyranny of a dragon that demanded tribute and destroyed everything in its path. A small nightingale, inspired by its love for the people, set out to use its song to change the dragon’s heart. This tale shows that kindness and talent can overcome even the greatest evil.

In a quiet valley surrounded by green hills, there lay a village. The people worked the fields, raised their children, and cherished life. But their peace was shattered by a dragon who lived in a cave at the mountain’s peak. Once a month, he flew to the village, demanding gold, food, and firewood for his cave. If his demands were not met, he burned the fields, destroyed homes, and stole livestock. No one knew how to stop him.

At the edge of the village lived a small nightingale. Every morning at dawn, it sang songs that brought joy to the people. Its melodies filled hearts with hope and light, even on the darkest days. One day, upon hearing the cries of children, the nightingale decided it could no longer stay silent. “I can’t drive the dragon away, but perhaps I can make a difference,” it thought.

The next day, when the dragon came to the village, the nightingale followed him back to his cave. The cave was enormous, its walls gleaming with gold and jewels. Watching the dragon stack his hoard, the nightingale felt fear but did not back down. Boldly, it flew closer and said, “Oh great dragon, allow me to sing for you.”

The dragon raised his head in surprise. “Who are you to dare speak to me?” he asked, his voice echoing through the cave. The nightingale replied, “I am just a small bird, but I wish to bring you joy. Perhaps my song will become your greatest treasure.”

The dragon smirked. “Very well. Sing. But if I am displeased, you shall be my dinner.”

Summoning all its courage, the nightingale closed its eyes and began to sing. Its song was so pure that the walls of the cave glowed even brighter, and the air grew warm. The melody spoke of the joy of life, the sun, and the happiness found in sharing kindness. With every note, the dragon’s heart grew softer. For the first time in years, he felt something other than rage and greed.

When the song ended, the dragon sighed. “Your melody is the most beautiful thing I have ever heard. It reminded me of who I was before I became what I am now. I have destroyed so many lives. But now I wish to change.”

The nightingale, seeing the dragon’s transformation, said, “You could become the protector of the village. Use your strength to do good instead of harm.” The dragon nodded. “I will harm no one again. From this day forward, I will guard the valley and help its people.”

When the nightingale returned to the village, it shared what had happened. At first, the people did not believe it, but the next morning, they saw the dragon returning their gold and helping rebuild their homes. He became their friend and protector, while the nightingale’s songs continued to ring out each dawn, filling the valley with peace and happiness.

Moral of the Story: This English folk tale teaches us that even the cruellest heart can change when touched by kindness. Music, courage, and faith in the good can create true miracles.

Questions for Discussion:

• Why did the nightingale decide to help the villagers despite its fear?
• How did the nightingale’s song change the dragon?
• What lessons does this story teach about kindness and bravery?