Text Book Solutions All Class

Q1. What does the swallow see when it flies over the city?
Ans: 

• As the swallow flew over the city, it witnessed a stark contrast between the lives of the rich and the poor. The swallow noticed that while the rich enjoyed their lives in luxurious homes, the poor suffered outside their gates, often ignored or mistreated. In the affluent areas, people indulged in festivities and material comforts, seemingly detached from the struggles of the less fortunate.
• On the other hand, in the darker and more impoverished parts of the city, the swallow observed the misery of the poor. It saw starving children with pale faces peering hopelessly from alleyways. 
• These children, who lacked even basic needs like food and warmth, showed how much suffering and neglect existed in the city. The swallow also noticed two young boys curled up under an archway, trying to stay warm in the cold. Despite their obvious hardship, a cruel watchman heartlessly drove them away, showing how little kindness was shown to the poor.
• Seeing so much pain and injustice deeply affected the swallow. It realized how unfair life was for the city’s poorest people, a truth that had also brought the Happy Prince to tears. The swallow now understood the great divide between the rich and the poor and how the city had failed to care for its most helpless citizens.

Swallow saw two young boys huddled together under an archway

Q2. Why do the courtiers call the prince ‘The Happy Prince’? Is he really happy? What does he see all around him?
Ans: 

• While he was alive, the courtiers called him the ‘Happy Prince’ because he lived a carefree and luxurious life. He was surrounded by joy and celebrations, never experiencing sorrow or hardship. His palace was always filled with happiness, and he remained unaware of the struggles faced by the people outside its walls. Since the courtiers only saw his easy life, they believed he was truly happy and gave him the title ‘Happy Prince.’
• However, his happiness was not real—it was based on ignorance rather than true fulfillment. It was only after his death, when his statue was placed high above the city, that he finally saw the suffering of the people below. From this new viewpoint, the prince came to understand the harsh realities of life.
• The sight of misery, poverty, and despair filled the prince’s heart with sorrow. He saw the hungry children, the poor seamstress struggling to make ends meet, the playwright without resources, and the many others who suffered silently. 
• It was at this point that the Happy Prince realized he had never truly experienced happiness, as his joy had been isolated from the reality of life. Seeing the suffering around him, his leaden heart wept for the first time, and he resolved to help those in need. 
• Thus, the Happy Prince’s true happiness came not from living a life of luxury but from the selfless act of giving and easing the suffering of others.

The Happy Prince

Q3. When and how did the Happy Prince realise the true meaning of life? What did this realisation prompt him to do?
Ans: 

• The Happy Prince had spent his life in comfort, isolated from the suffering of the world. He lived in a palace where sorrow was forbidden, and as a result, he was called the ‘Happy Prince’ by his courtiers and subjects. His life, though joyful on the surface, lacked depth, and he remained unaware of the true nature of human existence—its sorrows and struggles.
• It was only after his death, when his statue was erected atop a tall column, that the Happy Prince experienced a transformation. From his new vantage point, he could see the city in its entirety, and with that, he came face-to-face with the harsh realities that had been hidden from him in life. 
• He saw the suffering of the poor, the hunger of children, and the coldness with which society treated the less fortunate. This revelation led him to understand the true meaning of life—not in luxury or personal pleasure, but in compassion, selflessness, and the alleviation of others’ suffering.
• Moved by the plight of his people, the Happy Prince decided to take action, even though he was no longer alive in the traditional sense. He began by giving away the precious jewels and gold that adorned his statue, instructing the swallow to deliver them to those in need. 
• His selfless acts of charity were driven by his newfound understanding that true happiness lies in bringing relief to others. This realisation fundamentally changed the Happy Prince’s purpose, transforming him into a symbol of compassion and kindness, even at the cost of his own adornments and beauty.

Q4. How did the swallow exhibit the values of unconditional love and devotion? 
Ans: 

• The swallow’s actions throughout the story are a testament to the values of unconditional love and devotion. Initially, the swallow had no intention of staying in the city, as it was on its way to Egypt to join its fellow swallows for the winter. It only stopped by the city to rest for a night, perching itself between the feet of the Happy Prince’s statue.
• However, when the swallow encountered the Happy Prince, it was deeply moved by the prince’s sorrow over the suffering of his people. The prince, who was unable to move, asked the swallow to help him deliver the jewels and gold from his statue to the poor and needy. Despite its initial reluctance to stay, the swallow’s compassion for the prince grew, and it decided to stay another day to help him fulfil his wishes.
• As time passed, the swallow and the Happy Prince grew closer. The swallow became the prince’s eyes and wings, carrying out his acts of kindness with dedication. 
• Even as the weather turned colder and its health weakened, the swallow remained by the prince’s side, delivering the jewels from his statue to the poor seamstress, the playwright, and the matchgirl. Despite knowing that staying in the freezing city could cost it its life, the swallow chose to continue helping.
• In the end, the swallow could not survive the cold, but it stayed with the prince until its final breath. Its loyalty and devotion showed its deep love for the Happy Prince. 
• By choosing to remain despite the danger, the swallow proved that true kindness and friendship are built on trust, compassion, and a shared desire to help those in need.

Q5. How did the Happy Prince discover true happiness? How did he spread it?
Ans: 

• The Happy Prince had never experienced sadness while he was alive, which is why he was called the ‘Happy Prince.’ He lived a life of comfort and was protected from the struggles of the world. But after his death, when his statue was placed high above the city, he finally saw the pain and suffering of the people below.
• Watching the hunger and misery around him, the prince understood that his happiness had been incomplete. Even though his heart was made of lead, he felt deep sympathy for those in need. This was the start of his journey to finding true happiness—not in wealth or luxury, but in helping others.

• Wanting to help those in need, the Happy Prince asked a swallow to carry out kind deeds for him. First, he told the swallow to take the ruby from his sword and give it to a poor seamstress caring for her sick son. 
• Then, he gave away the sapphires from his eyes—one to a playwright shivering in the cold as he tried to finish his work, and the other to a little girl who was afraid of being punished after dropping her matches in the gutter. 
• Finally, the prince asked the swallow to remove the thin gold covering his statue and give it to the poor across the city. By giving away everything he had, the Happy Prince spread real happiness, helping to ease people’s suffering. 
• Though his statue became dull and lifeless, the kindness he shared filled his heart with a joy deeper than anything he had ever felt before. His selflessness showed that true happiness comes from giving, especially when it brings comfort to those in need.

Q6. Imagine you are the playwright who received the mystery gift of a sapphire. While passing by the statue you get to unravel the mystery when you overhear the general public and councillors discussing the dull statue of the Happy Prince. Write a diary entry expressing your gratitude to the Happy Prince and expressing your dismay at the council’s decision of pulling down the statue.
Ans: 
Dear Diary,
For days I have been trying to unravel the mystery of a precious sapphire I found at my desk a few days ago. I wondered who this admirer and saviour were. I wanted to personally thank him for his generous and timely help in saving my life and my career as a playwright.
The mystery got solved today when I was passing by the statue of the Happy Prince. A crowd of people, among them the Mayor and Town Councillors, were discussing how shabby and dull the statue looked without its ruby, sapphires and gold leaves. That is when I realized that the sapphire I had got was actually one of the eyes of the statue of the Happy Prince. That also explained how the poor and needy people in the city were mysteriously getting jewels and gold so that they could end their poverty and miseries. The Happy Prince with the help of the swallow – his noble companion – had brought so much happiness to the poor and downtrodden by sacrificing all he had.
It utterly dismayed me to hear of the council’s decision to pull down the statue because it looked nothing better than a dull, shabby beggar! How callous and ignorant the Mayor and the Councillors are!
However, I shall remain eternally grateful to the Happy Prince and the swallow, his faithful companion, and as a token of my gratitude to them, I am going to write and stage a play to highlight their exemplary sacrifices in bringing joy and happiness to the poor and needy people of the city.
May the soul of the Happy Prince and the swallow rest in eternal peace in the abode of God.

Q7. Why did the Happy Prince request the swallow to stay for another day? 
Ans: 

• The Happy Prince was on a tall column. From there he could see the miseries of people. He wanted to help the poor. But he could not move. The Prince wanted to help a poor seamstress. 
• He sent a ruby to her through the swallow, then the Prince saw a playwright. He was leaning on his desk. He was very handsome. His hair was brown and crisp. 
• He was trying to finish a play.  But he was feeling very cold. He had no firewood to keep himself warm. The Prince wanted to help him. He wanted to send one of the sapphires of his eyes to the young man. So he requested the swallow to stay for another day.

Q8. What happened to the statue of the Prince and the swallow in the end? 
Ans: 

• The swallow and the Happy Prince became friends. The swallow loved the Prince for his kindness. He decided not to go away.  The Prince sent his ruby and the sapphires of his eyes to the poor people. He sent the gold of his body to the poor children. 
• Now he was blind and ugly. Then winter came. The little swallow felt very cold. But he did not leave the Prince. One day, the swallow died. The leaden heart of the Prince broke in two.  
• The next day, the statue was pulled down. It was melted in a furnace. But the leaden heart did not melt. It was thrown into a heap. The dead body of the swallow was also lying there. God sent his angel to bring the two most precious things from the city. The angel brought him the leaden heart of the Prince and the dead body of the swallow.

Q9. Draw a brief character sketch of the Happy Prince.

Ans: 

• The Happy Prince was a beautiful statue, adorned with gold leaves, bright sapphires for eyes, and a ruby in his sword hilt. Once a joyful man, he was known as the Happy Prince because he had never experienced sorrow or hardship during his life. 
• However, after his death, he was placed high on a column, allowing him to witness the poverty and misery surrounding him. This sight filled his heart with pity, prompting him to help those in need. 
• He sent the ruby from his sword to a poor seamstress, the sapphires from his eyes to a playwright and a match girl, and the gold from his body to hungry children. His love for a little swallow was profound, and when the swallow died, it broke his heart. Thus, the Happy Prince was a kind and loving figure, willing to sacrifice his beauty for the welfare of others.

Q10. Give a brief character sketch of the swallow.

Ans: 

• The little swallow is a significant character in the story. Initially, he plans to fly to Egypt to join his friends. However, he agrees to stay an extra day at the request of the Prince. 
• During this time, he helps the Prince by delivering a ruby to a seamstress and the sapphires from the Prince’s eyes to a young man and a poor girl. Despite the Prince losing his sight, the swallow chooses to remain by his side. 
• The swallow demonstrates a kind heart as he comforts the son of a poor woman. When winter arrives, he endures the harsh conditions, surviving on crumbs while refusing to abandon the Prince. 
• Eventually, the swallow succumbs to the cold but remains loyal until the end. Even in death, he is united with the Prince, as an angel takes them both to paradise.

Q11. The little swallow was as noble as the Happy Prince. Describe how the swallow played an important role in helping the Happy Prince to carry out his noble deeds? 
Ans: 

• The little swallow was a kind bird who initially wished to travel to Egypt with his friends. When he first rested at the feet of the Happy Prince, he had no intention of helping anyone. 
• However, his true nature emerged when he saw the tears in the Prince’s eyes, revealing his deep empathy. As he spent more time with the Prince, the swallow developed a strong sense of service and compassion for others. He assisted the seamstress by delivering a ruby and fanned a sick boy with his wings. 
• The swallow also helped a playwright and a match girl, demonstrating his commitment to aiding those in need. When the Happy Prince became blind from giving away his jewels, the swallow chose to stay instead of leaving for Egypt. Ultimately, he sacrificed his life for the Prince, falling at his feet in a final act of loyalty.

Q12. The two most precious things in the city were the Happy Prince and the swallow. Do you agree? Explain. 
Ans: 

• The two most precious things in the city were the leaden heart of the Happy Prince and the dead swallow. The Happy Prince sacrificed his beautiful possessions to help those in need. 
• He gave away his gold and jewels to the poor, demonstrating his selflessness. The swallow, who chose to stay with the prince instead of migrating to Egypt, fulfilled the prince’s wishes by delivering these treasures to suffering people. 
• Despite harsh weather, he remained loyal and ultimately died at the prince’s feet. Thus, the angel was correct in taking the leaden heart of the prince and the dead swallow to Heaven.

Q13. How did the Swallow show obedience as the greatest virtue of living things? 
Ans: 

• The Swallow demonstrated his obedience as a key virtue throughout the story. Whenever the Happy Prince asked him to assist those in need, the Swallow complied without hesitation. 
• Over time, he grew fond of the Prince and chose to remain by his side. Despite becoming weaker from his selfless acts, the Swallow continued to serve the Prince faithfully. 
• His unwavering loyalty and willingness to help others highlighted that obedience was indeed his greatest quality.

Q1: Briefly describe the strange case brought to the king and the king’s judgment.

Ans: A thief broke into a rich man’s house, and a wall collapsed on him, causing his death. The thief’s brother complained to the king, blaming the rich man for the weak wall. The rich man shifted the blame to the bricklayer, who blamed a dancing girl for distracting him. The girl, in turn, blamed a goldsmith for delaying her jewelry, which caused her frequent trips. The goldsmith explained he was busy with an order for the rich man’s father. Since the father had passed, the king decided to execute the rich man in his place.

Q2: What did the Guru and his disciple see in the Kingdom of the Fools? Why did the guru decide to leave the kingdom at once?

Ans: In the Kingdom of Fools, the guru and his disciple discovered a strange world where the day was night, and the night was day. The king and his minister had forced everyone to work at night and sleep during the day, with disobedience punishable by death. Even more strangely, everything cost only one duddu. Sensing danger in this irrational setup, the guru chose to leave, warning his disciple that living among fools could be deadly. But, tempted by the low prices, the disciple stayed behind while the guru departed alone.

Q3: How does the guru manage to save his disciple’s life?

Ans: The guru used his wisdom and magical powers to save his disciple. Upon hearing his disciple’s silent prayer, the guru arrived instantly in the kingdom. He cleverly expressed his desire to die before his disciple, confusing the king. Flattering the king’s ego, the guru claimed that the execution stake was blessed by the god of justice and that whoever died on it first would be reborn as the next king, followed by the minister. Greedy for power in the next life, the king and minister decided to execute themselves instead. Thus, the guru saved his disciple and rid the kingdom of its foolish rulers.

Q4: Fools cannot continue with their follies for long. How can you justify this statement in relation to the story?

Ans: In the story, the king and his minister made foolish laws, reversing night and day simply to be different. They enforced their absurd rules until their own foolishness caught up with them. When the guru outwitted them with a clever plan, the king and his minister fell into their own trap, believing they would be reborn as rulers by dying first on the execution stake. Their lack of foresight and blind trust in absurdity led to their downfall. This shows that while fools may persist in their folly for a while, it ultimately leads to their undoing.

Q5: Name all the people who are tried in the king’s court, and give the reasons for their trial.

Ans: The first person tried was the merchant, whose house had a collapsed wall that killed the thief. He blamed the bricklayer for building a weak wall. The bricklayer was then tried, but he blamed the dancing girl for distracting him with her jingling anklets. The dancing girl, in turn, accused the goldsmith of delaying her jewelry order, which forced her to walk by the bricklayer multiple times. The goldsmith blamed the merchant’s father for pressuring him to prioritize a wedding order. Since the father was deceased, the blame shifted back to the merchant, who inherited the house where the incident occurred.

Q6. The guru was as wise as King Solomon. Discuss.
Ans: The guru’s wisdom, like that of King Solomon, was evident in how he saved his disciple and outwitted the foolish king and minister. His calm demeanor during the crisis allowed him to devise a clever plan, using the king’s greed to trap him. The guru’s ability to perceive danger early and his strategy to manipulate the king into executing himself show the depth of his wisdom. Like Solomon, the guru demonstrated that wisdom is an invaluable asset in solving seemingly impossible problems and overcoming foolishness.

Q7. Decisions should be made with a cool and rational mind. Discuss with reference to the story “In the Kingdom of Fools”.

Ans: The story teaches the importance of making decisions with a calm and rational mind. The disciple, tempted by the cheap food in the Kingdom of Fools, ignored his guru’s warning and chose to stay. His hasty decision put his life in danger when the foolish king ordered his execution based solely on his physical size. The king and his minister also acted rashly, seeking to secure their future lives by executing themselves, without thinking through the consequences. Had both the disciple and the king paused to consider the situation, they could have avoided disaster. The story emphasizes the need for thoughtful decision-making to prevent dire outcomes.

Q8. Arguing with a fool proves there are two. How does the wise guru find a way out without arguing with the king?

Ans: The guru knew that arguing with the foolish king would be pointless. Instead, he used flattery and manipulation to escape the situation. By pretending to fight with his disciple over who should die first and praising the king’s judgment, the guru aroused the king’s curiosity and greed. Without direct confrontation, the guru cleverly led the king to believe that dying on the stake would grant him rebirth as a ruler. The king, blinded by his own foolishness, fell into the trap. Thus, the guru avoided a futile argument and skillfully resolved the situation.

Q9. Values determine character. Discuss this statement with reference to the characters of the guru and the disciple.

Ans: The guru’s values of wisdom, foresight, and calmness set him apart from his disciple, who was ruled by greed and short-sightedness. The guru quickly recognized the dangers of staying in the Kingdom of Fools and left, while the disciple stayed for cheap food, despite the risks. When the disciple found himself in danger, it was the guru’s wisdom and rational thinking that saved him. The guru’s calm approach to problem-solving contrasted with the disciple’s impulsive behavior. This highlights how strong values shape character and can guide individuals through challenging situations.

Q10. Imagine you are the disciple. You have just been sworn in as the new minister of the Kingdom of Fools. Draft a speech to be delivered in the courtroom addressing the people on the new vision with which the kingdom would be governed henceforth.

Ans: Dear Citizens of the Kingdom,

Today marks a new beginning for our great land, a fresh chapter grounded in reason and justice. The era of reversing day and night is over, and under the wise leadership of our new king, my guru, we shall move forward with clarity and purpose. His judgment and experience will guide us to a brighter future, making our kingdom a proud example of good governance.

From now on, all former decrees are revoked, and you are free to resume normal life. Every voice is welcome, and all decisions will be made through consultation with the wise advisors of the royal court. Let us work together for the prosperity of our land. Hail the king, and long live our kingdom!

Thank you!

Q11. Why, according to you, is it always risky to live among the fools? Elaborate your answer with reference to the story “In the Kingdom of Fools”.

Ans: Living among fools is dangerous because their actions are unpredictable and often irrational. In the story, the king and his minister ruled with foolish laws that defied logic. The guru recognized the risk and left the kingdom, but his disciple, tempted by cheap food, stayed behind and nearly paid with his life. The king’s decision to execute someone based on their physical size illustrates how foolish rulers can endanger lives with their arbitrary judgments. Ultimately, the king’s own foolishness led to his downfall, showing how perilous it is to live under the rule of fools.

Q12. Discuss the importance of wisdom in life.

Ans: Life is a precious gift of God. We should enjoy it. We can make our lives both a bed of roses and a bed of thorns. It depends upon our wisdom. Life without wisdom is useless. It becomes dangerous too many a time. One who leads a life without wisdom can never enjoy it. We can enjoy our life when we are full of wisdom. Life is a combination of positive and negative aspects. It depends upon us what side we choose. It is our wisdom only that helps us distinguish between wrong and right. Wisdom makes our life full of comfort and provides us with various sources of enjoyment. Life without wisdom has no meaning.

Q13. The disciple failed to obey his Guru and did not follow his advice. What was the danger that occurred to him?

Ans: The disciple, enticed by the cheap food in the Kingdom of Fools, ignored his guru’s warning and decided to stay. However, the unpredictable behavior of the foolish king soon put him in danger. When the king decided that someone needed to be executed, the disciple’s physical size made him the chosen victim. Although the execution was meant to be a random punishment, the disciple’s decision to remain in the kingdom placed his life at risk. Only the guru’s wisdom saved him from the king’s senseless decree.

Q14. The people of the Kingdom of Fools were not so foolish after all. They made the Guru as their kings. Comment. 

Ans: In the Kingdom of Fools, everything looked odd. The disciple was arrested in place of the rich merchant. He was to be executed soon, but the disciple started praying. The guru reached there and made a plan to save the disciple’s life. The king and his minister became the victims of this plan and got themselves executed. Now there was no king in the kingdom. The throne was vacant. People wanted a wise person should become the king. After the death of the king and the disciple, the people were impressed by the wisdom and power of the Guru. They thought that if the Guru and his disciple became the king and the minister, there would be peace all around. So the people chose to crown the Guru and his disciple.

Q15. What is the role of the guru (teacher) in our life? Comment with reference to the story ‘In the Kingdom of Fools’.

Ans:

A guru is one who dispels the darkness of ignorance and illuminates us with knowledge, guiding us onto the right path. This sacred role commands the highest respect, as following a guru’s guidance shields one from harm. A teacher’s influence helps refine our thinking and shapes our character. In The Kingdom of Fools, the guru warned his disciples about the dangers of a foolish kingdom. When the disciple encountered trouble, he realized his error and turned to his guru, who then saved him with wisdom and foresight.

Q16. Does obeying the guru (teacher) bring misery? Comment based on “In the Kingdom of Fools”.

Ans: A Guru is always a well-wisher of his disciple. The disciple who does not obey his guru falls in misery while those who follow the path told by Guru live a happy and healthy life. In the story, the disciple did not obey his Guru and so fell into trouble. If he had followed his Guru and left the kingdom, he would not have been in trouble. He was greedy and decided to remain in the kingdom because everything was so cheap there. He used to eat to his fill and became fat. One day he fell into trouble as he was chosen to be executed due to his fatness. The Guru was a wise man. He was right in his predictions. And his predictions came true. It was he who came on his call and saved his life with his wisdom.

Q1. Iswaran was a master storyteller. Describe his amazing capacity of narrating stories and anecdotes.

Ans: Iswaran was an exceptional storyteller, known for his captivating narration. His passion for Tamil thrillers influenced his storytelling style, infusing even mundane events with suspense and drama. For example, instead of merely mentioning an uprooted tree on the road, Iswaran would create an atmosphere of tension by describing the scene as eerie and isolated, suggesting that an enormous beast lay ahead.

His use of dramatic gestures, expressive tones, and surprise endings made even the simplest tales enthralling. He often left stories unfinished, which heightened his listeners’ curiosity and showcased his remarkable narrative skills. Iswaran’s ability to weave adventure, horror, and suspense into his stories made them enjoyable, regardless of their credibility.

Q2. Describe lswaran’s encounter with the elephant.

Ans: Iswaran shared a thrilling tale about a rampaging elephant that escaped from a timber yard. The tusker caused chaos as it entered a school playground, where frightened children ran for safety. The elephant destroyed goalposts and water drums, creating a scene of panic.

At that time, Iswaran was a junior student. He bravely confronted the elephant armed only with a stick. He claimed that he struck the elephant’s third toenail, which caused it to collapse. A veterinarian was later called to treat the animal. Iswaran added a hint of exaggeration to his story, suggesting that he used techniques from martial arts like karate or ju-jitsu to subdue the beast.

This encounter left a lasting impression, as Iswaran often recounted this adventure, captivating his audience with his dramatic storytelling.

Q3. What did Iswaran tell Mahendra about a ghost? Describe Mahendra’s horrible experience one night. Why did he resolve to leave that place?

Ans: Iswaran told Mahendra that the factory area was once a burial ground and that he had often seen ghosts, including a frightening woman with a foetus. Although Mahendra dismissed these stories as mere superstition, they unsettled him. One night, he was jolted awake by a low moaning sound. When he looked out of his window, he saw a shadowy figure resembling a woman holding a bundle, which terrified him. The next morning, Iswaran confirmed he had also heard the eerie noise. Overcome with fear, Mahendra decided to leave immediately and submitted his transfer request.

Q4. How does Iswaran describe the uprooted tree on the highway? What effect does he want to create on his listeners?

Ans: Iswaran described the uprooted tree in a suspenseful and dramatic manner. He painted a picture of a deserted road where he felt as if he had encountered a huge, threatening creature. Only when he approached did he reveal that it was just a fallen tree with its dry branches spread out. His goal was to engage and captivate his listeners by creating suspense, turning an ordinary event into an exciting story. This storytelling style, influenced by the Tamil thrillers he enjoyed, kept his audience enthralled, highlighting his skill as a storyteller.

Q5. How does Iswaran narrate the story of the tusker? Does it appear to be plausible?

Ans: Iswaran narrated the tusker’s rampage with his usual flair for dramatization. He described how the elephant escaped, causing chaos in the town and frightening the children at his school. He built suspense by detailing the fear that gripped everyone around him, only to portray himself as a hero. He claimed that, armed with just a stick, he bravely confronted the elephant, striking it in a way that made the enormous beast collapse. The beginning of the story, involving the tusker’s destruction, seems plausible, as such incidents can occur. However, the notion of a young student subduing an elephant with a single blow is far-fetched yet amusing, adding a humorous touch to his exaggerated tale.

Q6. Mahendra calls ghosts or sprits a figment of the imagination. What happens to him on a full-moon night?

Ans: Initially, Mahendra dismissed Iswaran’s tales of ghosts as mere figments of the imagination. However, one full-moon night challenged his disbelief. He was awakened by a low moaning sound, which he first attributed to a cat. As the noise grew louder and more unsettling, his curiosity compelled him to look out of the window. To his horror, he saw a shadowy figure resembling a woman clutching a bundle. This sight left him in a cold sweat, trembling with fear.

The next day, his anxiety intensified when Iswaran claimed he had also heard the sound. This eerie encounter deeply unsettled Mahendra, prompting him to decide to leave the place immediately.

Q7. What human values form the essence of Iswaran’s character?

Ans: Iswaran was a talented and devoted individual, embodying values such as loyalty, creativity, and cheerfulness. He was committed to his duties, preparing delicious meals and managing the household without complaint. His storytelling ability captivated Mahendra, as he spun suspenseful and dramatic tales that provided entertainment and companionship. Even when Mahendra scolded him, Iswaran remained kind-hearted and continued to serve diligently. His positive attitude and creative spirit made him a memorable and beloved character.

Q8. What are the qualities of a good storyteller? How can you say that Iswaran was a fascinating storyteller?

Ans: A good storyteller captivates their audience by creating suspense, adding surprise, and using a vivid imagination. Iswaran possessed all these qualities, making him a fascinating storyteller. He had a talent for transforming ordinary events into thrilling tales by introducing suspenseful twists and dramatic conclusions. His imaginative descriptions, such as likening an uprooted tree to a gigantic beast, made his stories engaging. Iswaran’s expressive gestures and enthusiasm added depth to his narration, ensuring his listener remained hooked until the end. His storytelling was not just about the content but also about the style in which he delivered it.

Q9. Iswaran, the story-teller, had a sensational way of telling his stories. Do you think he did the right things by adding sensation to his stories?

Ans: Iswaran had a natural talent for storytelling, and his knack for adding sensation to his tales was part of his appeal. By introducing elements of suspense and surprise into even mundane events, he captured his audience’s attention and kept them entertained. His exaggerated stories, such as taming a wild elephant with a single blow, may not have been entirely truthful, but they effectively engaged and amused his listener, Mahendra. While some might argue that exaggeration can verge on dishonesty, in the realm of storytelling, Iswaran’s style was more about entertainment and maintaining interest than adhering strictly to the facts.

Q10. Right from childhood, we hear ghost stories. What should be our opinion about ghosts? Answer with reference to the story `Iswaran the Storyteller’.

Ans: Since childhood, we hear stories about ghosts, which often frighten us and make us fall asleep quickly. As children, we tend to believe in their existence, leading to a deepening fear, especially in the dark. In the story Iswaran the Storyteller, Iswaran tells Mahendra about a female ghost he claims to have seen. He describes her as an ugly creature with thick hair and a shrivelled face, appearing at midnight during the full moon, resembling a skeleton holding a foetus.

Although Mahendra dismisses Iswaran as crazy, he feels frightened inside. That night, he imagines the ghost and begins to shiver, reinforcing his belief in ghosts. Ultimately, he decides to leave the place, overwhelmed by fear.

Q11. Iswaran narrated ghost stories to his master, Mahendra, which created fear in Mahendra’s mind. Was it right on the part of Iswaran to create fear in Mahendra’s mind?

Ans: Iswaran’s storytelling had a significant impact on Mahendra, instilling a sense of fear in his mind. Iswaran claimed that their location was once a burial ground and recounted an encounter with a female ghost. This narrative deeply affected Mahendra, leading him to believe he saw a similar ghost outside his window. Consequently, he decided to leave his home, convinced by the power of Iswaran’s storytelling.

It is troubling that Mahendra’s fear was based on a mere imagination rather than reality. He should have critically assessed his experience before making such a drastic decision. Despite his initial scepticism about ghosts being mere figments of the imagination, Mahendra’s fear drove him to flee the place. Iswaran’s skillful storytelling played a crucial role in convincing Mahendra of the supernatural.

Q12. Even an educated person sometimes realises the existence of a ghost. Illustrate this with reference to Iswaran the Storyteller.

Ans: A well-educated person may dismiss the idea of ghosts as mere imagination. However, the fear instilled by horror stories and films can lead them to question their beliefs. This psychological effect can make them perceive frightening scenes as real. In the story of Iswaran the Storyteller, the protagonist Mahendra initially scoffs at the idea of ghosts. Yet, Iswaran, with his captivating storytelling, convinces Mahendra of the existence of a ghostly world. Mahendra becomes so affected by Iswaran’s tales that he begins to believe in ghosts and ultimately decides to leave the place, convinced it is haunted.

Q1. Grandmother disliked pets. Was it appropriate for grandfather to keep a small zoo at home and bring in Toto, the monkey? Discuss.

Ans: Grandfather had a deep love for animals and created a private zoo at home, which included a tortoise, rabbits, a tame squirrel, and pet goats. He was mindful of Grandmother’s dislike for pets. When he brought home Toto, the monkey, he kept it a secret. However, Toto was quite mischievous and caused numerous problems. From the moment he arrived, he damaged household items, including tearing wallpapers and the author’s blazer. Additionally, Toto disrupted the harmony among the other pets and proved to be an expensive addition.

Given these issues, it was not appropriate for Grandfather to keep Toto in his private zoo. He should have considered Grandmother’s feelings and preferences regarding pets.

Q2. Toto was a sharp and active monkey. Discuss.

Ans: Toto was a very observant and quick monkey. He closely watched how the narrator took a bath and imitated every action, even checking the water temperature with his hand. His appearance contributed to his clever image; he had deep-set eyebrows over sparkling eyes, pearly white teeth that often showed in a grin, quick fingers used for mischief, and a long tail. All these features made Toto seem like a smart monkey. However, he often used his intelligence for trouble. He ruined the wallpaper in the narrator’s bedroom, shredded his school blazer, disturbed other animals, bit the family donkey’s ears, made holes in the narrator’s aunt’s dresses, and stole and broke a dish of pulao. Thus, while Toto was sharp and active, he was difficult to train and could not be kept as a pet for long without causing chaos.

Q3. Describe, in brief, the adventures of Toto, the monkey.

Ans: The story follows a clever and mischievous monkey named Toto, who was purchased by the grandfather from a tonga driver for five rupees. Initially, Toto was kept in a small room next to the narrator’s bedroom, where he caused chaos by tearing off wallpaper and ruining the narrator’s school blazer.

Later, Toto was moved to the grandfather’s private zoo in Saharanpur, where he was placed in a canvas cage. His antics kept the other animals awake at night. Toto even accompanied the grandfather to the stable, which cost an extra three rupees for his ticket. During this trip, he found the water too hot and annoyed a donkey.

One day, Toto climbed into a kettle on the fire. When he spotted a dish of food during lunch, he became excited, leading to a rescue by the grandfather. Throughout the story, Toto’s curiosity and playful nature lead him into numerous funny and troublesome situations, creating chaos wherever he goes.

Q4. Why does Grandfather take Toto to Saharanpur, and how? Why does the ticket collector insist on calling Toto a dog?

Ans: Grandfather took Toto to Saharanpur to collect his pension. He couldn’t leave Toto at home because it was still a secret from Grandmother, and Toto was quite mischievous. He had already caused trouble by tearing wallpaper and damaging the narrator’s school blazer, making it risky to leave him behind. To ensure Toto wouldn’t escape or disturb other passengers, Grandfather packed him securely in a large, black canvas kit bag.

The train journey was mostly uneventful until Toto poked his head out of the bag at the Saharanpur platform and grinned at the ticket collector. The collector, surprised, insisted that Grandfather pay for Toto, claiming he was a dog since no ticket had been purchased for him. According to railway rules, only dogs required a fare, so the ticket collector classified Toto as a dog and charged three rupees for his fare.

In a bid to get back at the ticket collector, Grandfather then took out their pet tortoise and asked what the fare would be for it, since all animals were supposedly chargeable. The ticket collector examined the tortoise and, after a brief inspection, declared, “No charge. It is not a dog.”

Q5. How did Toto create problems for Grandfather on the way to Saharanpur?

Ans: Grandfather had to zip Toto into a large black canvas kit bag to take him from Dehradun to Saharanpur. The bag was designed to prevent Toto from escaping or biting through it. However, Toto was very restless and attempted to jump out, causing the bag to roll and bounce on the floor. This commotion attracted the attention of curious onlookers at the Dehradun railway platform, making it hard for Grandfather to keep Toto’s presence a secret.

Upon arriving in Saharanpur, Toto unexpectedly poked his head out of the bag and grinned at the ticket collector. This cost Grandfather three rupees in fare, as the collector insisted that Toto was a dog. Despite Grandfather’s attempts to argue that a monkey was not a dog, the ticket collector remained firm in his classification.

Q6. How did Toto like to have a bath in winter? How did he once get into serious trouble while trying to have a hot-water bath?

Ans: A great treat for Toto during cold winter evenings was his bath in a large bowl of warm water. He would cleverly test the temperature with his hand before gradually stepping in, first on one foot, then the other, until he was submerged up to his neck. Once comfortable, he would take soap in his hands or feet and rub himself all over. When the water cooled, he would quickly jump out and run to the kitchen fire to dry off. If anyone laughed at him, he would stop bathing, feeling hurt.

One day, Toto’s love for hot baths led him into serious trouble. He noticed a kitchen kettle on the fire and, with nothing better to do, decided to remove the lid. Finding the water just warm enough, he climbed in, leaving his head sticking out. Initially, it was fine, but soon the water began to boil. Toto hopped in and out of the kettle, trying to escape the heat while finding it too cold outside. He kept this up until Grandmother arrived and rescued him, pulling him out just in time to prevent a disaster.

Q7. What human values do you see in Grandmother after reading this story?

Ans:

Grandmother appeared to be a tough woman. She often fussed when her Grandfather brought home a new bird or animal, but this fuss would fade once she was in a good mood. After a few days, she accepted Toto as the new pet. When Toto shredded the narrator’s school blazer, the narrator worried about Grandmother’s reaction, as she seemed very strict. However, her soft heart showed compassion for all creatures. Despite Toto’s mischievous and destructive behaviour, Grandmother would overlook his antics and even provided him with a bowl of warm water for a bath. She also rescued Toto from being boiled in a kettle. Thus, it is clear that Grandmother had a kind heart, even though she appeared tough on the outside.

Q8. Grandfather possessed the values of childlike simplicity. Do you agree/disagree? Give reasons.

Ans:

Grandfather owned a private zoo filled with various animals, including a tortoise, a pair of rabbits, and a tame squirrel. His childlike love for animals led him to secretly acquire a monkey named Toto, despite Grandmother’s disapproval. Grandfather’s attempts to hide Toto, such as when he admired the monkey’s cleverness after it shredded the narrator’s school blazer, demonstrate his innocent nature. Furthermore, when he concealed Toto in a bag during their journey to Saharanpur and produced a tortoise from his pocket to show the ticket collector, it further confirms his childlike simplicity. These actions reveal that, despite his age, Grandfather retained a sense of wonder and joy akin to that of a child.

Q9. Grandfather had kept many animals in his private zoo and cared for them. Does this show that we should care about animals?

Ans:

Grandfather was a kind-hearted animal lover who created a private zoo at home. He frequently brought home new animals that he liked, showing his determination and patience. When he adopted Toto, he was pleased but faced challenges as Toto often disturbed the other animals. To help Toto adjust, Grandfather moved him around frequently. His strong character and love for animals made him a naturalist, treating his pets as family members.

Q10. Animals should be treated with love and respect. Comment on this statement with the lesson ‘The Adventures of Toto’ as the background.

Ans:

Animals should be treated with love and respect. It is essential to treat animals with kindness and avoid any form of cruelty. Even wild animals deserve care. In the story “The Adventures of Toto”, the grandfather exemplifies this love and kindness. He creates a mini-zoo at home, providing a comfortable life for the animals, including Toto. Since pet animals offer us companionship, it is our responsibility to look after them with affection and concern.

Q1. Write a note on the theme of the story ‘The Lost Child’.
Ans: The story ‘The Lost Child’ explores themes of child psychology and attachment. It highlights how a child’s natural curiosity and desire for attractive things are closely linked to their parents’ presence. The child is excited at a fair, drawn to various attractions such as: Balloons, Sweets, Garlands of gulmohur, Roundabout rides. When the child realises their parents are missing, their joy turns to fear and sadness. A kind stranger offers to buy the child sweets and toys, but the child only wants their parents.

Q2. Give a description of the festival of spring.

Fair for Spring Festival

Ans: The festival of spring was a vibrant celebration in a village, where many people gathered for a fair. Attendees were dressed in new clothes, arriving on foot, in bullock carts, or on horses. A little boy was particularly excited to attend the fair with his parents. The fairground was lined with numerous shops selling: Toys, Sweets, Balloons, Garlands of gulmohur flowers.

Although the child eagerly wanted to buy balloons and sweets, his parents dismissed his requests. Jugglers entertained the crowd, and the area near the temple was bustling with people enjoying rides on a roundabout. The boy also wished to ride, but his excitement faded when he realised his parents were missing.

Q3. What were the things that the boy wanted to possess when he was with his parents?
Ans: The child visited a village fair with his parents and desired several things. He first wanted a beautiful toy but was called away by his father. He saw a sweets-seller and longed for some burfi, yet his father denied his request. Then, he noticed a vendor selling garlands of gulmohur flowers and wished to buy one, but this demand was also rejected. He spotted a balloon seller and desired a balloon, but his father did not buy it for him. He was drawn to a juggler and wanted to stop to listen to the flute music, but he feared his father’s disapproval. Finally, he wished to ride on a roundabout, but he could not find his parents.

Q4. How did the festival of spring bring out the latent joy in human nature?
Ans: The festival of spring signifies the arrival of sunshine after a long, cold winter. During this time, nature awakens, and the vibrant life around us brings joy to the human heart. Key aspects of the festival include people from various places gather to celebrate, creating a lively atmosphere. Brightly coloured clothing, especially in shades of yellow, dominates the scene. Festivities include enjoying sweets, flowers, swings, and games. Families take a break from their daily routines to enjoy the festival together. Many express gratitude to God by visiting shrines.

Q5. What values of humanity are reflected through the character of the kind man?
Ans: The man who rescued the child demonstrated a heart full of goodness. He did not ignore the child’s painful cries for his parents. Despite the risk to his own safety, he bent down in the crowd to save the boy from being trampled.

His actions included forgetting his own purpose for visiting the shrine. Comforting and soothing the frightened child. Speaking kindly and asking about the child’s parents. Remaining patient when the child did not respond. Offering small things that children love to ease the boy’s fear.Through these actions, the man’s character reflects the human values of kindness, compassion, care, and love.

Q6. When does the child realise that he has lost his way? How have his anxiety and insecurity been described?
Ans: The child became distracted by many attractions on his way to the fair. He often lagged behind but tried to catch up with his parents when they called him. However, he became so captivated by the sweetmeat-seller, balloon-seller, garlands, and the snake charmer’s flute that he moved on without waiting for his parents’ response. When he turned back to ask for a ride on the roundabout, he realised he had lost his way, as his parents were nowhere to be seen.

Tears streamed down his face, and his flushed expression showed his fear. In a state of panic, he ran in all directions, unsure of where to go or what to do, calling out for his mother and father.

Q7. “A child longs for toys, sweets, and other things but not at the cost of his parents.” Comment.
Ans: When the child realised he was separated from his parents, he began to cry. Tears streamed down his cheeks, and his face was filled with fear. In a panic, he ran in all directions, causing his yellow turban to come undone and his clothes to get muddy. He rushed towards the shrine, desperately searching for his parents.

As he navigated through the thick crowd, he feared being trampled. Just then, a kind-hearted person picked him up and asked how he ended up there and where his parents were. The child, overwhelmed with emotion, cried even more, pleading for his parents.

Q8. When children are taken to a fair, they ask their parents to buy them many things. Should their parents do so? Explain with reference to the lesson The Lost Child.
Ans: Children are the joy of our homes, and their happiness is essential. When parents take their children to a fair, they face the challenge of managing their many requests. Children often have limitless desires, especially in exciting places like fairs. Parents should try to meet their children’s wishes within reason while ensuring their safety. Parents must keep a close eye on their children to prevent them from getting lost. This includes holding their hands tightly and not allowing them to wander off. While it’s important to set limits, children should also be given opportunities to enjoy the fair experience.

Q9. You have gone to a fair. Your parents refuse to buy certain things for you. How will you react? 
Ans: In such a situation, I would react with understanding and acceptance. Although I might feel a bit disappointed at first, I would remind myself of the bigger picture. I trust their judgment, as they have a better perspective on what is truly beneficial for me. They consider various factors, including our family’s financial responsibilities and my well-being. They manage household expenses while ensuring I am safe and happy.

Instead of focusing on what I couldn’t have, I would appreciate the love and efforts my parents put into my upbringing. Recognise that they always have my best interests at heart. Learn important lessons about patience, understanding, and valuing things beyond their material aspect.

Q10. You are taken to a fair by your parents. How will you behave with your parents? Explain concerning the lesson ‘The Lost Child’.
Ans: When parents take us to a fair, we should follow their instructions closely to avoid getting lost. Stay close to them while walking around the fair. Keep important information, like our mobile number and home address, in our pocket.

If we do get lost, we should not eat any sweets or treats offered by strangers. Call out for our parents calmly.

Key Points of the Story

1. Sergei’s Assistance and Beliefs

• Sergei, an advocate, decided to help Lushkoff, believing that honest labour would reform him.
• He offered Lushkoff the task of chopping wood, thinking it would instill discipline and responsibility.

2. Olga’s Silent Support

• Olga, the cook, had a different approach. Though she scolded Lushkoff, she helped him by secretly chopping the wood for him.
• Her kindness, though concealed beneath a sharp tongue, left a lasting impact on Lushkoff.

3. Sergei’s Satisfaction and Olga’s Role

• Sergei felt proud, thinking he had put Lushkoff on the right path, with Lushkoff now earning five copecks daily.
• However, it was Olga’s humane and silent support that truly reformed Lushkoff, showing that compassion can be more effective than stern guidance.

4. Lushkoff’s Gratitude

• Lushkoff eventually thanked Sergei but credited Olga for his transformation, acknowledging her actions as the real catalyst for the change in his heart.

Detailed Summary

• The Desperate Beggar’s Plea: In a bustling town, a poor, hungry man named Lushkoff approached Sergei, an advocate, seeking help. Dressed in ragged clothes, he shared his desperate plight of going three days without food or shelter. He claimed to have been a schoolteacher but lost his job due to false accusations. Sergei, however, recognized him as someone who had previously posed as an expelled student. Seeing through his lies, Sergei felt disgusted by Lushkoff’s deception
• Lushkoff’s Confession: Caught in his lies, Lushkoff admitted the truth. He confessed that he was not a schoolteacher but a former choir singer dismissed due to drunkenness. Desperate, he explained that he resorted to lying because no one helped him when he told the truth.
• Sergei’s Offer of Work: Moved by a mixture of pity and frustration, Sergei offered Lushkoff a job chopping wood. Though reluctant, Lushkoff accepted the offer out of pride and shame. As Sergei watched Lushkoff’s weak attempts to work, he felt sympathy for the man’s weakened state.
• A Regular Worker: Lushkoff gradually became a regular worker for Sergei, performing various menial tasks for small pay. Despite his initial reluctance, he continued to work, earning a small income and receiving old clothes as gifts.
• Olga’s Hidden Kindness: Over time, Lushkoff’s situation improved. He later revealed to Sergei that his positive transformation was mainly due to Olga, the cook, who not only scolded him but also secretly chopped the wood on his behalf. Her quiet acts of kindness deeply impacted Lushkoff and led him to change his ways.
• A Transformed Life: Two years later, Sergei encountered Lushkoff, now a successful notary earning a respectable income. Lushkoff expressed his gratitude to both Sergei and Olga, acknowledging that while Sergei set him on the right path, it was Olga’s compassion that truly transformed his life.

Theme/ Message

Themes:

• Redemption through work and mentorship: Honest labour and guidance can bring about personal growth and redemption.
• The impact of kindness and second chances: Compassion and understanding can have a profound effect on an individual’s transformation.
• Transformation and personal growth: Small acts of kindness can set the stage for life-changing transformations.

Message:

• Hard work, guidance, and compassion can lead to personal transformation and success.
• Small, selfless acts of kindness can change someone’s life trajectory for the better.

Difficult Words

• Copecks: Russian coin equal to one hundredth of a rouble.
• Calumny: Making false and defamatory statements about someone to damage their reputation.
• Suppliant: A person making a humble plea to someone in power or authority.
• Mendicant: A beggar.
• Swindling: Cheating a person of money.
• Perplexity: State of being puzzled; bewilderment.
• Irresolutely: Hesitantly; undecidedly.
• Billet: A thick piece of wood.
• Waif: A homeless person.
• Sot: A habitual drunkard.
• Roasting: Scolding.
• Shovel: Remove snow with a shovel.
• Notary: An official authorized to perform legal activities, such as witnessing signatures and certifying documents.
• Trajectory: The path followed by a moving object.

Key Points of the Story

• Protagonist’s difficult transition from junior high to high school.
• Feeling of isolation due to a new, larger school and separation from friends.
• Near-death experience in a house fire, where the protagonist’s mother risks her life to save sentimental items.
• Loss of home, belongings, and the protagonist’s beloved cat in the fire.
• Support and kindness received from peers at school after the fire.
• Rebuilding of the house and emotional recovery, symbolizing personal growth and newfound friendships.
• Reunion with the missing cat, symbolizing hope, gratitude, and restoration.

Detailed SummaryIn this chapter, the narrator talks about their challenging transition to high school. They express feeling out of place after leaving the familiarity of junior high, where they were a top student. The new high school was much larger, and to add to the difficulty, their close friends went to a different school. This left the narrator feeling isolated and missing their old teachers. 

The narrator found solace in their red tabby cat, whom they had rescued as a kitten. The cat stayed close as they did homework one cold, windy day by the fireplace. Suddenly, smoke filled the room as a fire broke out in the house. The family evacuated, and the narrator’s mother rushed in to save important belongings, despite the danger. The mother retrieved a metal box with precious documents, but then went back in for the father’s pictures and letters. 

Despite the narrator’s protests, firefighters intervened to rescue the mother. The house burned down, leaving the family devastated. The narrator’s cat was missing, adding to their sense of loss. The family had to stay elsewhere, and the narrator, now without proper school supplies due to the fire, felt embarrassed and out of place at school. However, to their surprise, classmates rallied to support them, providing clothes and supplies, and showing genuine care and friendship. 

As the narrator watched their house being rebuilt, they realized the importance of opening up to others and appreciating the kindness around them. The rebuilding process mirrored a personal transformation, symbolizing a new beginning. In a heartwarming turn of events, the narrator’s lost cat was found and returned by a kind stranger, bringing a sense of closure and gratitude. 

Through these experiences of loss, rebuilding, and newfound friendships, the narrator learned valuable lessons about resilience, community support, and the enduring bond between humans and pets. 

The chapter highlights themes of overcoming challenges, finding strength in adversity, and the power of compassion in unexpected places.

Theme/MessageThemes:

• Resilience and adaptation to change: The protagonist faces significant challenges but learns to adapt and rebuild after a devastating event.
• Community and support: Highlighting the importance of kindness, empathy, and support from others during difficult times.
• Loss and restoration: The story explores themes of loss, grief, and eventual restoration of what is truly valuable.

Message:

• Through adversity, one can find strength and resilience to overcome challenges with the help of a supportive community.
• Loss can lead to newfound appreciation for what truly matters in life, fostering gratitude and personal growth.

Difficult Words

1. Isolated – (adjective) lonely or separated from others.
2. Groping – (verb) to feel about with the hands; to search blindly or uncertainly.
3. Crazed – (adjective) driven insane or mad.
4. Inhaled – (verb) to breathe in; to take air, smoke, or gas into the lungs.
5. Vulnerable – (adjective) open to physical or emotional harm; easily hurt.
6. Plight – (noun) a dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation.
7. Outcast – (noun) a person who has been rejected or ostracized by society or a social group.
8. Insecurity – (noun) uncertainty or anxiety about oneself; lack of confidence.
9. Heroically – (adverb) in a brave, daring, or courageous manner.
10. Plight – (noun) a dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation.

Key Points of the Story

• Setting: Sue and Johnsy, two young artists, live together in a small flat on the third floor of an old house.
• Johnsy’s Illness: Johnsy falls gravely ill with pneumonia and becomes despondent, believing she will die when the last ivy leaf outside their window falls.
• Doctor’s Advice: The doctor informs Sue that Johnsy’s recovery depends on her will to live, emphasizing that medicine alone will not help.
• Sue’s Efforts: Sue tries to uplift Johnsy’s spirits by engaging her in conversation and keeping her mind occupied, but Johnsy remains fixated on the ivy leaf.
• Behrman’s Role: Behrman, an elderly painter, creates a lifelike painting of the last ivy leaf to give Johnsy hope, sacrificing his life in the process.
• Johnsy’s Transformation: Inspired by the remaining leaf, Johnsy regains her will to live, unaware of Behrman’s final act of painting the leaf.

Detailed Summary

• Introduction of Sue and Johnsy: Once upon a time in a bustling city, there resided two young artists named Sue and Johnsy. They lived together in a cosy flat situated on the third floor of an ancient building. Unfortunately, Johnsy fell severely ill with pneumonia one chilly November, confining herself to her bed, staring listlessly out of the window.
  
• Sue’s Efforts and the Doctor’s Concern: Concerned Sue, her dear friend, summoned the doctor, who attended to Johnsy diligently but to no avail. Despite Sue’s efforts to engage Johnsy by discussing various topics like fashion and art, Johnsy remained disinterested, fixated on the idea that her fate was sealed, and no medicine could alter it. In a desperate attempt to divert Johnsy’s attention, Sue brought her drawing board into the room, painting while whistling cheerfully. 
• Johnsy’s Belief in the Last Leaf: One day, a turning point arrived when Johnsy, quietly counting down the remaining leaves on a vine outside, expressed her belief that her life was tied to the falling of the last leaf. Sue, in disbelief, tried to reason with her, emphasizing the doctor’s optimism about her recovery. However, Johnsy’s conviction remained unshaken, leading to a poignant moment of reflection and realization. 
• Behrman’s Role and the Painted Leaf:  Meanwhile, Sue, determined to support her friend, sought the help of Behrman, an aging painter living downstairs, sharing Johnsy’s predicament with him. Behrman, initially critical of Johnsy’s perspective, eventually showed empathy upon learning the gravity of her condition. As days passed and the lone leaf on the vine persisted despite harsh weather conditions, Johnsy’s outlook gradually shifted.
  
• Johnsy’s Recovery and Behrman’s Sacrifice: Witnessing the leaf’s resilience, she acknowledged her ingratitude towards Sue’s care and decided to embrace life with newfound vigour. This transformation marked a pivotal moment in her recovery journey, culminating in a heartwarming reconciliation between her friends. Tragically, while Johnsy’s health improved, Behrman succumbed to pneumonia after a brief illness. His final act of painting the last leaf, symbolizing hope and endurance, left a lasting impact on both Johnsy and Sue, underscoring the beauty of selflessness and the power of art in times of despair. 
• The Legacy of Behrman’s Masterpiece: In the end, as Sue shared Behrman‘s legacy with Johnsy, the significance of his masterpiece dawned upon them, reinforcing the profound bond between art, life, and the enduring spirit of humanity. The tale of Sue, Johnsy, and Behrman serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of life’s fleeting moments and the enduring legacy of compassion and creativity.

Try yourself:

What is the symbolic significance of the last leaf painted by Behrman in the story?

• A.It represents Johnsy’s recovery from pneumonia.
• B.It symbolizes Sue’s unwavering friendship towards Johnsy.
• C.It signifies hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of life.
• D.It highlights Behrman’s artistic talent and selflessness.

View Solution

Theme of the Story

• The story highlights the fragility of life and the vital role of hope in overcoming adversity.
• Friendship, compassion, and selflessness are central to healing and personal growth during difficult times.
• The power of art and creativity is portrayed as a source of hope and inspiration, capable of changing lives.

Difficult Words

• Pneumonia: an inflammatory condition of the lung affecting primarily the tiny air sacs known as alveoli.
• Despondent: feeling or showing profound hopelessness, dejection, or gloom.
• Anxiously: characterized by extreme uneasiness of mind or brooding fear about some contingency.
• Energetically: with great energy, enthusiasm, or determination.
• Gloomy: darkness, sadness, rejection, or despondency.
• Adversity: difficulties, misfortune, or unfavourable circumstances.
• Realization: the act of becoming fully aware of something as a fact.
• Janitor: a person employed to take care of a building, such as a caretaker or a doorkeeper.
• Desperately: in a way that shows despair or hopelessness.
• Adversity: difficulties, misfortune, or unfavourable circumstances.
• Uplift: raise to a higher position or level; improve spiritually or morally.
• Renewed: resumed after an interruption; revived or restored.
• Contingency: a future event or circumstance that is possible but cannot be predicted or controlled.
• Profound: very great or intense; having or showing great knowledge or insight.

Weathering the Storm in Erasma

narrates the adventures of a young man Prashant who was marooned on a rooftop

for two nights following a dreadful storm.

Prashant had gone to the coastal

town of Erasma in Orissa to spend a day with his friend seven years after his

mother’s demise. It was that fateful day the storm lashed in full fury with

heavy wind and rain. Trees were uprooted and water entered neck deep inside the

friend’s house. For two days, everyone took refuge on the roof till the

situation calmed down a bit.

Although everyone tried to pursue Prashant to stay for a few more days as the situation had not fully settled, he was determined to move ahead. Using a stick to guide him, he waded his way through the water to his village, eighteen kilometers away. Once there, he sought the assistance of Red Cross to find out the whereabouts of his family. Slowly, he found each one of them.

Key Points of the Story

• The story is about a statue of a prince, covered in gold and jewels, that overlooks a city.

•  A swallow sees the prince’s sadness and agrees to help him assist the needy people in the city.
• The prince asks the swallow to give his jewels to those in need:
  A ruby to a poor seamstress.
  Sapphires to a struggling writer and a little match girl.
•  Even after losing his beautiful eyes, the prince keeps helping the poor through the swallow’s efforts.
• The swallow stays loyal to the prince, helping him until the bird becomes sick and dies.
•  After the swallow’s death, the prince’s statue is torn down, but his lead heart does not melt in the furnace.
• God honors the prince and the swallow for their selflessness, showing that true happiness lies in helping others.

Try yourself:

What does the prince ask the swallow to give to the needy?

• A.Food
• B.Jewels
• C.Clothes
• D.A gold crown

View SolutionDetailed Summary

The Happy Prince was a beautiful statue covered in gold, with sapphires for eyes and a ruby on his sword. He stood on a tall column overlooking the city. One evening, a swallow, who was on his way to Egypt, stopped to rest at the statue’s feet. As he prepared to sleep, he felt drops of water and realized they were tears from the statue. The Happy Prince was crying because, from his high position, he could see the misery and poverty of the people in the city, which he could not help during his life.

The Happy Prince requested the swallow to take the ruby from his sword and give it to a poor seamstress. The seamstress was struggling to sew a dress for a queen’s maid while caring for her sick child. Although the swallow wanted to leave for Egypt, he agreed to stay one night to help. The swallow delivered the ruby, fanned the sick boy with his wings, and returned to the prince.

The next evening, the prince saw a young playwright in a cold attic, unable to complete his play due to hunger and freezing conditions. The prince asked the swallow to pluck out one of his sapphire eyes and give it to the playwright. Despite feeling reluctant, the swallow obeyed. The playwright sold the sapphire, bought food and firewood, and continued his work.

On the following night, the prince noticed a poor matchgirl crying in the cold because her matches had fallen into the gutter, and she feared her father’s anger. The prince asked the swallow to pluck out his other eye and give it to the girl. The swallow hesitated because it would leave the prince blind, but he eventually obeyed. The girl was overjoyed with the jewel, but now the prince could no longer see.

Since the prince was now blind, the swallow decided to stay and act as his eyes. The swallow flew over the city and described what he saw—rich people enjoying luxury while the poor suffered. The prince asked the swallow to strip the gold leaf by leaf from his body and give it to the needy. The swallow did so, bringing happiness to many.

As winter approached, the swallow grew weaker due to the cold. He refused to leave the prince and stayed by his side. One day, the swallow kissed the prince and died at his feet. At the same moment, the prince’s lead heart broke in two.

The townspeople noticed that the statue was no longer beautiful. They removed it, melted it in a furnace, but the leaden heart would not melt. They discarded the heart along with the swallow’s body on a dust heap.

God asked His angels to bring Him the two most precious things in the city. The angels brought the leaden heart and the dead swallow. God welcomed them into Paradise, where the little bird would sing forever, and the Happy Prince would praise Him.

Theme & Message

Theme:
The story emphasizes the themes of compassion, selflessness, and the true meaning of happiness. It portrays the contrast between material wealth and emotional richness, showing that beauty and luxury are meaningless without kindness. The bond between the prince and the swallow demonstrates how self-sacrifice can bring joy and hope to those in need.

Message:
Oscar Wilde delivers a powerful message that true happiness lies in helping others. The story teaches that acts of kindness and generosity, even at great personal cost, have a lasting impact. It also highlights the value of empathy, showing how caring for others can transform not just their lives but also our own. Through the prince and the swallow’s sacrifices, Wilde reminds us that love and selflessness are the greatest virtues.

Difficult Words

• Gilded: Covered with a thin layer of gold.
• Sapphires: Precious blue gemstones.
• Ruby: A valuable red gemstone.
• Alighted: Landed or settled after flying.
• Seamstress: A woman who sews for a living.
• Embroidering: Sewing decorative patterns on fabric.
• Pedestal: The base supporting a statue.
• Garret: A small, cramped room under a roof.
• Withered: Dried up or shriveled.
• Listlessly: Without energy or enthusiasm.
• Courtiers: People who serve in a royal court.
• Feverishly: In a restless or frantic manner due to fever or excitement.
• Swooped: Flew down quickly and suddenly.
• Furnace: A hot oven used to melt or heat things.
• Proclamation: An official public announcement.