Skip to the content
The Library
of Alexandria

Aesop's Fables, Part 71 summary

Part 71 of 284 · 1 min to read the part

In Jupiter and the Tortoise, Jupiter invites the animals to celebrate his marriage, but the Tortoise stays away because he prefers home. Annoyed by this explanation, Jupiter decrees that the Tortoise must carry his house on his back, turning his preference into a condition he cannot escape.

What happens

  1. Jupiter plans a marriage celebration and invites every animal to a feast.
  2. All the animals attend except the Tortoise, whose absence surprises Jupiter.
  3. At their next meeting, Jupiter asks the Tortoise why he stays away from the celebration.
  4. The Tortoise explains that he dislikes going out and prefers home.
  5. Jupiter angrily decrees that the Tortoise must carry his home and cannot leave it.

Free for 3 months

Get the full summary of Aesop's Fables; A New Translation, free

  • 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
  • Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.

In this part

What to notice

The reply explains his absence and provokes Jupiter’s anger. His stated preference determines the form of his punishment.

Quick check

Why does the Tortoise miss Jupiter’s banquet?

Free for 3 months

Get the full summary of Aesop's Fables; A New Translation, free

  • 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
  • Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold

15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.

Try 3 months free