In five pages a literary analysis of Jean de la Fontaine's The Dog and the Wolf and The Oak and the Reed examines theme, symbolism, imagery, metaphor, and personification. Two sources are cited in the bibliography.
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a part of the life cycle and those elements of it. In essence, then, what the poet sees as nature is systematically destroyed in this century, is not only a
destruction of the physical, but a destruction of the metaphysical as well. Man, then, is a danger to himself, and to that which consciously he has tried to distance himself
from. Nature, while still considered the ultimate teacher, is no longer the sanctuary or retreat, but rather nature is part of the internal landscape of the mind and an object
of social and political ramifications. These morals inherent in the fable poems are as applicable to modern society as they were to Fontaines era. The Oak and the Reed,
in particular outline many important lessons. For example, it shows the contrast between the hidden strengths that are often overlooked because of outward appearances. In this case, the outward
appearance of size makes it seem as if the large Oak has more strength, however, with its ability to bend and not break, the Reed ends up being the stronger
of the two. In addition, the Oak is shown to be boastful and proud, while the reed is represented as having a quiet strength and self assuredness that needs no
outward recognition. Why do Fontaines epic fable poems work? Primarily, one could state that they work because they embody universal truths. The universal truth that strength is not necessarily
how big one is or how physically powerful one is, but rather strength lies in ones ability to adapt and overcome. There is also the point made about humility versus
pride. In the end, it can be said, the Oaks strength ultimately becomes his weakness, whereas the humble reed is his saving grace. The overall tone and mood of this