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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate10 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
Mijbil the Otter is a delightful tale about author Gavin Maxwell's experience with an otter he names Mijbil. Set initially in southern Iraq, Maxwell decides to keep an otter instead of a dog. Through a series of engaging narratives, the story unfolds Mijbil's adaptation from being aloof and indifferent to becoming a friendly and curious pet. It chronicles the challenges of transporting Mijbil to England and his various playful antics, showing the profound bond that forms between the otter and Maxwell.
Key Topics
- •Mijbil the Otter’s playful antics
- •Maxwell’s efforts to keep Mijbil
- •Transporting animals internationally
- •Adaptation of wild animals to urban settings
- •Human-wild animal relationships
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the challenges of pet ownership, especially exotic pets.
- ✓Analyze the behaviors and adaptations of otters in captivity.
- ✓Reflect on the responsibilities of owning a pet.
- ✓Explore the emotional bond between humans and animals.
- ✓Examine the process of animal domestication and transportation.
Questions in Chapter
What game had Mij invented?
Page 89
What are ‘compulsive habits’? What does Maxwell say are the compulsive habits of school children and Mij?
Page 89
What group of animals do otters belong to?
Page 89
What guesses did the Londoners make about what Mij was?
Page 89
What things does Mij do which tell you that he is an intelligent, friendly and fun-loving animal who needs love?
Page 90
What are some of the things we come to know about otters from this text?
Page 90
Why is Mij’s species now known to the world as Maxwell’s otter?
Page 90
Additional Practice Questions
Explain how Mijbil's behavior in the bathroom illustrates his playful nature.
mediumAnswer: Mijbil's playful nature is evident when he finds immense joy in the water. He plunges and rolls in the bath, spreading water everywhere, illustrating his love for aquatic environments and demonstrating his characteristic otter playfulness.
Discuss the significance of Maxwell’s efforts to bring Mijbil to London.
hardAnswer: Maxwell's efforts to transport Mijbil to London highlight his commitment and affection towards the otter. Despite various obstacles, including airline restrictions and Mijbil injuring himself, Maxwell shows ingenuity and care, illustrating a deep bond and responsibility toward his pet.
What challenges did Maxwell face while adapting to life with Mijbil in London, and how did he overcome them?
mediumAnswer: In London, Maxwell faced challenges such as correcting Mijbil's compulsive habits, ensuring his safety, and integrating him into the urban environment. He overcame these by establishing routines, ensuring Mijbil's recreational needs were met with ample playtime, and being attentive to his unique requirements.
How does Mijbil’s transformation from aloof to affectionate symbolize broader themes in the story?
mediumAnswer: Mijbil's transformation reflects themes of trust and companionship. Initially aloof, his eventual affection for Maxwell signifies the development of a cross-species friendship, emphasizing themes of understanding and bonding over time.
Reflect on the ethical considerations mentioned in the story about keeping otters as pets.
hardAnswer: The story invites readers to consider the ethical implications of domesticating wild animals. It encourages reflection on the animal's well-being, the necessity of understanding its natural behaviors, and the importance of creating an environment that allows an enriched life while under human care.