How is the viper characterized in contrast to the farmer?

 In the fable of The Farmer and the Viper the characters of the farmer and the viper are characterized in contrasting ways to present a moral lesson.

The farmer is generally characterized as a kind-hearted, compassionate, and generous individual. He is someone who extends his help even to creatures that others might find undeserving or dangerous. When he sees the viper, who is freezing and in danger of dying, he decides to save the viper by warming it in his coat.

The viper, on the other hand, represents treachery, ingratitude, and inherent malevolence. Despite being saved by the farmer, the viper's character is such that it cannot go against its nature. So, when it regains its strength from the warmth provided by the farmer, it bites him, delivering a dose of venom. This act reflects the viper's character as unchanging and dangerous, regardless of the kindness shown to it.

The contrast is stark: the farmer embodies the virtues of compassion and kindness, whereas the viper embodies betrayal and malice. This dichotomy serves to drive the moral of the story: not everyone is capable of change, and sometimes, kindness to the wicked will be repaid with wrongdoing.