Leo Tolstoy was born rich but unlike the aristocrats of his time, he 'extolled the virtues of physical labor' (MSEncarta,2009) Does this background have any effect on the way he ended this story? Why do you say so?

What did King Bauakas seek to prove when he set out to look for the judge? Was he satisfied or disappointed?

What are the decisions made by the judge? What can you say about each decision?

How was the judge able to arrive at fair decision?

What can you say about the cripple, the peasant, and the oil merchant? Have you met people like them? Relate the incident when you met one.

What can you say about the title of this little story? Could you think of a better one? Why/Why not?

Based on the story, what kind of king was King Bauakas?

We don't have to be judge to be just. Give some ways wherein we can always be just or fair in our dealings with others.