Abstract: Based on geological analyses, this paper presents criteria of bending and breaking in a countertendency slope by a simple stress analysis. In the analyses, a random rock stratum is simplified as a girder model under a complex loading. According to instantaneous disconnection between strata at failure, it is assumed that the downside of the upper stratum faces air. Taking into account the deadweight and add-ons loading (gravity of the upper stratum, friction stress of interface and so on), the stress criterion of bending and breaking can then be established based on the maximum tensile stress rule. From the stress criterion of bending and breaking, the flexibility criterion can be found. The stress and flexibility criteria can be used in assessment of the potential failure and design of control measures for prevention of bending and breaking in the countertendency layered slopes.