Medieval Democracy in Action: From the Fables of Odo of Cheriton - Medievalists.net
Briefly

Odo's fables about the chicks and frogs serve as poignant warnings about the dangers of choosing rulers based on immediate desires rather than wise discernment. Each tale illustrates how seeking power led to disastrous consequences, reaffirming the importance of measured choices.
In the story of the chicks, their initial choice of a gentle dove is soon rejected for a more fearsome kite, resulting in tragedy. This reflects the fickle nature of governance and the risks of prioritizing power over virtue.
Similarly, the frogs elevate a tree as their king only to regret it later and opt for a serpent. This underscores Odo's message that rulers should possess dignity and the capacity to lead effectively, instead of being merely charismatic.
Ultimately, Odo emphasizes the recurring theme that societies often err in their selection of rulers when they display dissatisfaction with gentle, virtuous leadership, favoring those that embody sheer might.
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