Jupiter, Neptune, Minerva, And Momus
Aesop Fable: Jupiter, Neptune, Minerva, And Momus
According to an ancient legend, the first man was made
by Jupiter, the first bull by Neptune, and the first house
by Minerva. On the completion of their labors, a dispute
arose as to which had made the most perfect work.
They
agreed to appoint Momus as judge, and to abide by his
decision. Momus, however, being very envious of the handicraft
of each, found fault with all. He first blamed the work
of Neptune because he had not made the horns of the bull
below his eyes, so he might better see where to strike.
He
then condemned the work of Jupiter, because he had not
placed the heart of man on the outside, that everyone might
read the thoughts of the evil disposed and take precautions
against the intended mischief.
And, lastly, he inveighed
against Minerva because she had not contrived iron
wheels in the foundation of her house, so its inhabitants
might more easily remove if a neighbor proved unpleasant.
Jupiter, indignant at such inveterate faultfinding, drove
him from his office of judge, and expelled him from the
mansions of Olympus.
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