Androcles adapted from Aesop’s Fables scene 1: (Backdrop—forest. Enter Androcles looking over his shoulder) ANDROCLES: (Speaking to himself) I’ve just escaped from my master. I need to find a place to hide. (As he searches for a place to hide, he sees a lion moaning in pain. He turns to run but changes his mind.) Oh! You poor thing. (He looks at the lion’s paw, which is swollen and bleeding. He finds a large thorn, which is the cause of the pain, pulls it out, and binds the paw. The lion rises and licks Androcles's hand. The lion leads him to a cave stage right.) ANDROCLES: (Speaking to the audience) The lion brought me meat to live on for the next few days until we were captured. (Curtain) scene 2: (Backdrop—arena. The Emperor enters stage right downstage and moves to stage left upstage. Androcles is surrounded by guards who enter from stage right upstage. Androcles moves to center stage. His head is bowed.) EMPEROR: The slave shall be thrown to the lion as punishment. Ensure that the lion has a good appetite. (The Emperor and the members of court are gathered stage left upstage. Androcles is center stage. The lion charges in from stage right downstage. Androcles steps back. The lion recognizes Androcles and begins to lick his hand.) EMPORER: (Surprised) What is this? Guards! I wish to speak with him. (Speaking to Androcles) How did you do that? Are you a sorcerer? ANDROCLES: (Bowing to the emperor) When I escaped and ran into the forest, I found him with a large thorn. It caused him much pain. I took it out, and he has been grateful since then. EMPORER: (Impressed) Very well! You are pardoned and the lion shall be released into the wild. (Curtain)

What is the theme of the passage?
A.
Don’t despise what you don’t have.
B.
Familiarity may breed contempt.
C.
Always treasure your freedom.
D.
Kindness is always rewarded.