Que Quieren?: A Hilarious Glimpse into 13th Century Colombian Folklore!

 Que Quieren?: A Hilarious Glimpse into 13th Century Colombian Folklore!

Colombia, with its vibrant tapestry of cultures and landscapes, boasts a rich oral tradition that has been passed down through generations. These stories, filled with mythical creatures, mischievous spirits, and timeless lessons, offer a window into the beliefs and values of ancient Colombian communities. Today, we delve into the heart of this folklore, exploring a story that will tickle your funny bone and leave you pondering the nature of greed: “Que Quieren?”.

This tale, shrouded in the mists of time and whispered around campfires for centuries, follows the misadventures of a cunning fox who stumbles upon a hidden treasure. Now, let’s be honest, foxes are known for their slyness, but this particular fox takes it to a whole new level! He not only outsmarts his fellow animals but also manages to outwit a group of greedy humans intent on claiming the riches for themselves.

The story unfolds in a lush Colombian valley, where animals and humans coexist, albeit with a healthy dose of mistrust. Our protagonist, the fox we affectionately call “Reynaldo,” stumbles upon a chest overflowing with gold coins while digging for grubs. Now, Reynaldo isn’t exactly known for his altruism. He immediately hatches a plan to keep this newfound wealth all to himself.

But alas, Reynardo’s booming laughter as he discovers the treasure attracts unwanted attention. A gaggle of curious monkeys swings down from the trees, eager to see what all the commotion is about. They bombard Reynardo with questions: “Que quieren?” they screech, wanting a share of the shiny loot. Reynardo, ever the schemer, concocts a wild story about the gold being cursed.

“Touch it,” he warns the monkeys, “and you’ll turn into stone!”

The gullible monkeys, terrified by Reynardo’s tale, scamper back up the trees, leaving him alone with his treasure. However, Reynardo’s celebration is short-lived. A group of greedy humans, hearing whispers of hidden gold, descends upon the valley.

They demand that Reynardo reveal the location of the treasure, threatening him with violence if he refuses.

Reynardo, unfazed by their threats, employs his trademark cunning once again.

“I’ll show you the gold,” he says slyly, “but it’s guarded by a fearsome dragon!”

The humans, skeptical but desperate, follow Reynardo deeper into the forest. He leads them on a merry chase through dense foliage and treacherous ravines, all while concocting elaborate tales of the dragon’s ferocity.

By nightfall, exhausted and frustrated, the humans realize they’ve been duped. Reynardo, with a sly wink and a triumphant grin, slips away into the night, leaving the humans empty-handed.

“Que Quieren?” becomes a testament to the power of wit and ingenuity over brute force. It highlights the dangers of greed and the importance of critical thinking. But beyond its moral message, the story is simply hilarious! Reynardo’s sly schemes and the exasperated reactions of both animals and humans paint a comical picture that resonates with readers even today.

The tale also offers a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and values of 13th-century Colombia. The presence of mythical creatures like dragons reflects the rich imagination of the Colombian people, while the emphasis on cunning and wit speaks to their appreciation for intelligence and resourcefulness.

Let’s break down some key elements that make “Que Quieren?” so captivating:

Element Description
The Cunning Fox (Reynardo): Reynardo embodies the archetype of the trickster, using his intellect and wit to outsmart those who seek to exploit him. His mischievous nature and clever schemes make him a memorable and endearing character.
Greed as a Driving Force: The story highlights the destructive nature of greed, showing how it can lead to poor judgment and ultimately leave individuals empty-handed.
Humor and Satire: The tale is infused with humor, poking fun at both human folly and animal naivety. Reynardo’s elaborate lies and the exasperated reactions of his victims create a lighthearted and enjoyable reading experience.

“Que Quieren?” is more than just a simple folk tale; it’s a timeless story that continues to entertain and enlighten generations. Its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its ability to connect with audiences on both an emotional and intellectual level. So, the next time you find yourself seeking a dose of laughter and wisdom, consider exploring the world of Colombian folklore through this delightful tale!