The Conceited Pig

by Anonymous

"The Conceited Pig" by Anonymous is a children’s story written in the mid-19th century. The book centers around the character Wilful, a young pig known for his arrogance and inquisitiveness, who leads himself and others into trouble due to his conceited nature. Through the narrative, the story explores themes of pride, disobedience, and the consequences of ignoring wise counsel. In the story, Wilful, restless and frightened by strange noises one night, decides to leave the safety of the sty to investigate, much to the dismay of his mother and siblings. He encounters various animals, including the old donkey Jack and the hen Miss Peck, who highlight his foolishness and arrogance. Ignoring their advice, Wilful eventually sets off to inform the Queen about the supposed falling stars, only to fall prey to a stranger who leads him into a dark hole. The tale concludes with a cautionary note about the dangers of pride and the need to listen to those more experienced, ultimately showing how Wilful’s conceit leads to his ominous fate.