The Spider and the Tortoise! A Delightful Tale Weaving Lessons on Greed and Cleverness From 7th Century Nigeria

This captivating tale, born from the oral traditions of ancient Nigeria, tells the story of a cunning spider and a determined tortoise who embark on a journey marked by both trickery and wit. “The Spider and the Tortoise” is not merely a whimsical story for children; it delves into profound themes of greed, deception, intelligence, and the consequences of our actions.

As with many folk stories passed down through generations, there are variations in the details depending on the region and storyteller. However, the core message remains consistent: cleverness can triumph over brute strength, and insatiable greed often leads to downfall.

Let’s delve into the narrative itself.

The story typically begins with a boastful tortoise who believes himself to be the wisest creature in the land. He challenges anyone to prove their intelligence by solving a riddle. The spider, known for his cunning and web-weaving skills, accepts the challenge. A clever bargain is struck: if the tortoise solves the riddle, he will gain all of the spider’s possessions; but if the spider prevails, the tortoise will have to carry him on his back wherever he wishes to go.

The riddle itself often takes a humorous twist, playing on the physical characteristics or habits of the animals involved. For example, one version might ask: “What has eight legs but cannot walk?” The answer, of course, is a spiderweb!

Naturally, the spider outsmarts the tortoise with his clever riddles and wordplay. The tortoise, humbled and bound by the agreement, begrudgingly agrees to carry the spider on his back. Here’s where the real adventure begins:

The journey often involves overcoming obstacles, encountering other animals who try to take advantage of the situation, and showcasing the spider’s ability to think outside the box. One popular episode involves crossing a deep river: The spider instructs the tortoise to carry him on his back while swimming across. The tortoise, initially hesitant due to his fear of water, eventually complies, demonstrating the spider’s persuasive abilities.

However, the climax of the story comes when the tortoise becomes exhausted and tempted to shake off his burden. He argues that carrying the spider is an unfair imposition. The spider responds with another riddle: “If a king has many wives but only one true love, who is she?”

This riddle forces the tortoise to confront his own greed and desire for freedom at the expense of his agreement. He realizes that he has been blinded by pride and learns a valuable lesson about honouring commitments. In some versions, the spider ultimately lets the tortoise go free, while in others, they continue their journey together, their initial animosity replaced with begrudging respect.

“The Spider and the Tortoise”: A Timeless Tale for All Ages

This simple yet profound story transcends cultural boundaries. It resonates with audiences of all ages due to its relatable themes:

• Cleverness over Brute Strength: The spider’s triumph highlights that intelligence and wit can be powerful tools, even against physically superior opponents.

• Consequences of Greed: The tortoise’s initial greed and desire for easy gain lead to his downfall. He learns the importance of humility and fulfilling promises.

• Importance of Honesty and Trust: The story implicitly emphasizes the value of keeping agreements and treating others fairly.

“The Spider and the Tortoise” remains a cherished part of Nigerian folklore, passed down from generation to generation. It continues to entertain and enlighten audiences with its blend of humour, suspense, and timeless lessons.

By exploring this intriguing tale, we gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria and the enduring power of storytelling in shaping our values and worldview.