The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse – A Complete Tale of Simplicity and Luxury
A story about two mice: the town mouse and the country mouse, who experience each other’s lives. A tale about choosing between luxury and peace.
Summary: In this story, the town mouse visits the country mouse to experience the simple life. Then, the country mouse travels to the town to see luxury. Both realize that each way of living has its advantages and disadvantages.
At the edge of a forest, in a small burrow under an old oak tree, lived the country mouse. She was modest and enjoyed collecting grains and roots, relishing the quiet life. One day, her distant cousin, the town mouse, came to visit. The town mouse arrived in her finest attire and immediately began to complain: “How can you live in such a place? It’s so dull and poor here!”
The country mouse, though slightly offended, decided to welcome her guest with hospitality. She served her best meal: nuts, grains, and fresh grass. But the town mouse wrinkled her nose as she tasted the food: “In the town, everything is much better—cheese, bread, exquisite treats. Why don’t you come with me to try real food?”
The next day, the country mouse, driven by curiosity, set off for the town. When they arrived at the luxurious house, the town mouse showed her a grand pantry full of cheese, butter, bread, and fruits. The country mouse was amazed: “So this is what true luxury looks like!”
But just as they began feasting, the pantry door creaked open, and a large cat burst in. The mice barely managed to hide in a crack in the wall. Shaking with fear, the country mouse whispered, “How can you live in constant danger?”
The town mouse laughed, though she was still frightened: “You have to get used to luxury. There’s always a risk here, but the food is worth it!” The country mouse thought for a moment and said, “I’d rather eat my grains and nuts in peace than live in fear for a piece of cheese. Simplicity is safer than your luxury.”
The country mouse returned home, happy to have her quiet life. The town mouse, though accustomed to danger, began to appreciate the tranquility of her rural cousin. They both realized that everyone should choose what suits them best.
Moral of the story: Luxury does not always bring happiness, especially when it comes at the cost of peace and safety. Everyone has their own path to happiness.
Discussion Questions:
- Why didn’t the country mouse stay in the town?
- How is life in the town different from life in the countryside?
- How did each mouse find their own advantages in their lifestyle?
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