Tolstoy Stories

Classes :6th to 8th

English :

     Ivan, the fool

 Once upon a time, in a faraway village, there lived a family with three brothers and a sister. The eldest brother, Simeon, was strong and clever. The middle brother, Tarras, was smart and skilled in business. The youngest brother, Ivan, was simple-minded and kind-hearted, and everyone called him Ivan the Fool. Their sister, Martha, was caring and looked after the household.Despite his nickname, Ivan was always cheerful and willing to help others. He worked hard in the fields, shared what he had with the poor, and never asked for anything in return. His brothers often laughed at him for being so generous and naïve, while they busied themselves with plans to become rich and powerful.

One day, Simeon decided to become a soldier and serve the king. He went to the city, hoping to earn glory and riches. Tarras, on the other hand, became a merchant, traveling to far-off lands to trade goods and make a fortune. Ivan stayed behind, tending to the farm and helping the villagers with their troubles.Years passed, and Simeon and Tarras returned home, but they were not happy. Simeon had been injured in battle and was now poor, while Tarras had lost his wealth in a failed business venture. They both sought Ivan's help, despite having mocked him in the past.Ivan welcomed his brothers warmly. He shared his food with them and took care of their needs. Despite their past behavior, Ivan never held a grudge. Instead, he worked even harder to make sure everyone in the family was comfortable.Meanwhile, the village was threatened by a terrible dragon. The villagers were terrified and had no idea how to defeat it. 

 Ivan decided to confront the dragon, armed only with his kindness and bravery. As he approached the dragon's lair, he met a wise old man who gave him a magical whistle."Blow this whistle when you face the dragon," the old man said. "It will summon help when you need it the most."Ivan thanked the old man and continued on his way.

When he reached the dragon, he blew the whistle, and to his surprise, the dragon transformed into a beautiful princess."Thank you, brave Ivan," said the princess. "I was cursed by an evil sorcerer and could only be freed by someone pure of heart. You have saved me.

"The princess rewarded Ivan with a treasure chest full of gold and jewels, but Ivan didn't care for riches. He took only what he needed to help his brothers and the villagers and gave the rest to the poor.Word of Ivan's bravery spread, and he became known as Ivan the Wise. The villagers realized that true wisdom lay in kindness, generosity, and simplicity. Simeon and Tarras learned from Ivan's example and changed their ways, becoming kinder and more caring.

In the end,  Ivan lived a long and happy life, surrounded by friends and family. He never sought glory or wealth, but his deeds made him beloved by all. And so, the village prospered under the guidance of Ivan the Wise, the kindest and most generous of them all.

 Moral

  * The story of "Ivan ,the Fool" teaches us that true wisdom and happiness come from kindness, generosity, and simplicity, rather than from seeking wealth and power.