From which fable comes the saying There is no beast stronger than a cat, but Vaska listens? - briefly
The saying "There is no beast stronger than a cat, but Vaska listens" originates from Ivan Krylov's fable "The Cat and the Cockroach".
From which fable comes the saying There is no beast stronger than a cat, but Vaska listens? - in detail
The phrase "There is no beast stronger than a cat, but Vaska listens" originates from Ivan Krylov's famous fable "The Quartet." This work, written in 1820, is part of Krylov's series of fables that employ animal characters to convey moral lessons. In this particular fable, a group of animals—a bear, a monkey, and a cat—decide to form a musical quartet. The phrase in question is attributed to the cat, named Vaska, who asserts her superiority over the other animals despite their perceived strength or intelligence.
The story unfolds with the animals discussing their respective talents. The bear believes its strength makes it the most valuable member of the group, while the monkey boasts about its dexterity and cleverness. Vaska, the cat, however, confidently proclaims that although there may be no beast stronger than she is, her true value lies in her ability to listen and understand. This statement underscores the importance of wisdom, patience, and discernment over mere physical strength or cunning.
Krylov's fable "The Quartet" has become a classic in Russian literature, renowned for its wit and insightful commentary on human nature. The phrase "There is no beast stronger than a cat, but Vaska listens" has transcended the original text to become a proverbial expression used to emphasize the significance of attentive listening and understanding over brute force or superficial intelligence. This moral lesson resonates deeply with readers, highlighting the enduring relevance of Krylov's fables in contemporary culture.