<p><strong>Themes:</strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>Kindness and Altruism:</strong> The snake helps the ants despite their earlier hostility, emphasizing selfless compassion.</p></li><li><p><strong>Prejudice and Mistrust:</strong> The ants initially judge the snake based on stereotypes (possibly species-based bias), reflecting human tendencies to distrust &quot;outsiders.&quot;</p></li><li><p><strong>Reciprocity and Humility:</strong> The ants learn that rejecting others in need can backfire, while the snake’s forgiveness highlights how kindness fosters mutual respect.</p></li><li><p><strong>Unity in Crisis:</strong> The flood forces cooperation, showing that shared challenges transcend differences.</p></li></ul><p><strong>2. Symbolism:</strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>The Snake:</strong> Represents wisdom and unexpected benevolence, challenging stereotypes (snakes often symbolize danger).</p></li><li><p><strong>The Ants:</strong> Symbolize hard work but also narrow-mindedness; their initial refusal mirrors human prejudice.</p></li><li><p><strong>The Flood:</strong> Acts as a neutral crisis, stripping away social hierarchies and forcing collaboration.</p></li></ul><p><strong>3. Moral Lesson:</strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>&quot;Help Without Discrimination&quot;:</strong> The story advocates aiding others regardless of past conflicts or differences, as crises affect everyone.</p></li><li><p><strong>Karma:</strong> The snake’s act of goodwill returns to benefit him (safety in numbers during the journey) and teaches the ants humility.</p></li></ul><p><strong>4. Cultural Context:</strong></p><ul><li><p>Rooted in Indian folklore traditions, where animals convey moral lessons. The snake’s role as a wise figure aligns with cultural archetypes (e.g., Shiva’s serpent), while ants symbolize community but also rigidity.</p></li></ul><p><strong>5. Irony and Character Development:</strong></p><ul><li><p>The ants’ refusal to shelter the snake ironically leads to their own vulnerability, highlighting the folly of prejudice.</p></li><li><p>The snake’s patience and empathy contrast with the ants’ initial hostility, modeling moral growth through adversity.</p></li></ul>