Mbe and the Feast in the Sky

Mbe the Tortoise heard that the sky spirits were hosting a magnificent feast, but he had no wings to get there. He went to his friend, the Eagle, and said, "Great Eagle, if you carry me to the feast, I will ensure you get the best portion of the food, for I am a master orator and will speak on your behalf." The Eagle agreed and carried Mbe on his back to the sky. When they arrived, Mbe was so charming and witty that the spirits were delighted with him. However, when the feast was served, Mbe's greed took over. He ate and drank so much that he completely forgot about his promise to the Eagle. When it was time to leave, the Eagle, angry and hungry, said to Mbe, "You have forgotten your promise. You must find your own way home." He then flew away, leaving Mbe stranded in the sky. To get down, Mbe had to shamefully beg and make promises to all the other birds, who eventually helped him. The story is a lesson about the dangers of letting greed make you forget your promises to those who have helped you.

Featured Animals
  • Tortoise
  • Eagle
Cultural Groups
  • Igbo
Moral Themes
  • Deceit and Consequences
Ethical Frameworks
  • Consequentialism
  • Consequentialism
  • Consequentialism
  • Consequentialism
Geographic Origins
Countries
  • Nigeria
Regions
  • Western Africa