AI-generated interpretation of Crane’s tale.
Overview
Truthful Joseph is the cowherd whose honesty survives a plot by jealous courtiers in Crane’s Pomigliano d’Arco tale. His mother gives him the name because he never lies. A passing king hears it, asks about it and takes Joseph into his service. Each morning Joseph reports that the cows are well and fat, the calves well and handsome, and the bull likewise. The king’s repeated praise makes the courtiers resent him.
They send a lady to persuade Joseph to kill the bull. He yields, then worries about his next report. Putting his cloak over a chair, he rehearses the exchange as though addressing the king. He starts to repeat his familiar answer about the bull, recognises that it would now be false and decides to tell the truth. Before the king he admits that the lady induced him to kill the animal and asks pardon. The king applauds his honesty and summons the courtiers to show that their attempt has failed. Joseph remains in royal service. His defining action is the confession after a serious mistake, rather than an ability to avoid every temptation.
Origins & earliest records
Crane’s English translation of a Pomigliano d’Arco version, citing Conti Pomiglianesi, p. 1, in Italian Popular Tales (1885), tale XLVIII
Records & interpretation
Complete tale XLVIII, pp. 184–185, its immediate source introduction and chapter III note 37; full preface and edition framing read.
Selected bibliography
Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.
- 01
Italian Popular Tales
Boston and New York: Houghton, Mifflin and Company. Tale XLVIII.
Family & connections
A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.
References
Sources supporting this profile. Linked pages have their own scope and editorial standards.
- Public-domain historical English translationCrane, Italian Popular Tales, XLVIIIResearch access: 2026-10-21
Image credits
AI-generated interpretive illustrationAI-generated interpretation of Crane’s tale.