Comparing Folktales - Hodja and the fine coat and Honest Thief

Compare the Hodja to the Ooka in the Japanese legend, what are some ways that they are alike? Check all that apply.

• They are both very clever.

• They are both poor.

• They are both respected by others because of their wisdom

• They both have Mercy on someone who is poor and hungry.

What is a phrase that both the Hodja and the Ooka would probably agree with?

• Don't be mean to people just because of the way they look.

• Treat everyone with kindness even when they are mean to you.

• Be careful when passing judgement on people. Things aren't always as they seem.

• Stealing things is wrong regardless of why you do it.

In the story Ooka and the honest thief, the Ooka teaches that honesty is always the best policy. This is different from the lesson that the Hodja teaches. The Hodja teaches the people at the party​ (a)  

• Don't judge a book by it's cover.
• Don't charge people for the smell of soup.
• Wisdom is worth more than gold.
• Loving those around you cost nothing.

Match the characters in the two stories that are most similar to one another.

• Zeki

• Yaichi

• Gonta

• Hodja

• Ooka

• Berk

If the Hodja and the Ooka got together and had a discussion about life and wisdom, what are some things you think they might talk about and agree on?