TED-Ed: The tale of the doctor who defied Death

A poor father, desperate for help, encounters God, the devil, and Death in the woods. He chooses Death as his child's godfather, believing in equality in death. Years later, Death gives the child a potion to become a successful doctor, with strict rules on who can be saved. The doctor gains fame but deceives Death to save a king, risking his life. When he saves a princess, Death punishes him by extinguishing his life candle, teaching a lesson on mortality and greed.

Why did the father choose Death as the godfather for his child?

• He wanted to challenge Death.

• He trusted Death's fairness towards all.

• He thought Death was the kindest.

• He believed Death was the most powerful.

What did Death give to his godson when he grew up?

• A magical sword

• A map to hidden treasures

• A potion to cure all ailments

• A book of spells

What was the rule about the position of Death in relation to the patient's bed?

• Death at the head means the patient is already dead.

• Death at the foot means the patient can be saved.

• Death at the foot means the patient is already dead.

• Death at the head means the patient can be saved.

How did the doctor attempt to save the king?

• By reversing the bed's position

• By giving him a new potion

• By praying for him

• By calling another doctor

What was Death's warning to the doctor after saving the king?

• He would lose his wealth.

• He would lose his life if he cheated again.

• He would be banished from the kingdom.

• He would lose his medical license.

What motivated the doctor to save the princess?

• His ambition to be famous

• His fear of the king

• His desire for wealth

• His love for her

What did the doctor see in the cave with Death?

• Mirrors reflecting his past

• A treasure chest

• A library of books

• Candles representing lives