Chapter 14

It is interesting to note that the lion that is the mostamenable to the circus trainer's tricks is the one with thelowest social standing¹ in the pride, the omega animal. It hasthe most to gain from a close relationship with the super-alphatrainer. It is not only a matter of extra treats. A closerelationship will also mean protection from the other membersof the pride. It is this compliant² animal, to the public nodifferent from the others in size and apparent ferocity, that willbe the star of the show, while the trainer leaves the beta andgamma lions, more cantankerous³ subordinates, sitting on theircolourful barrels on the edge of the ring.
The same is true of other circus animals and is also seen inzoos. Socially inferior animals are the ones that make the moststrenuous, resourceful efforts to get to know their keepers.
They prove to be the ones most faithful to them, most in needof their company, least likely to challenge them or be difficult.
The phenomenon has been observed with big cats, bison, deer,wild sheep, monkeys and many other animals. It is a factcommonly known in the trade.

1 standing   

n.持续，地位；adj.永久的，不动的，直立的，不流动的

参考例句：

• After the earthquake only a few houses were left standing.地震过后只有几幢房屋还立着。
• They're standing out against any change in the law.他们坚决反对对法律做任何修改。

2 compliant   

adj.服从的，顺从的

参考例句：

• I don't respect people who are too compliant.我看不起那种唯命是从，唯唯诺诺的人。
• For years I had tried to be a compliant and dutiful wife.几年来，我努力做一名顺从和尽职尽职的妻子。

3 cantankerous   

adj.爱争吵的，脾气不好的

参考例句：

• He met a crabbed,cantankerous director.他碰上了一位坏脾气、爱争吵的主管。
• The cantankerous bus driver rouse on the children for singing.那个坏脾气的公共汽车司机因为孩子们唱歌而骂他们。