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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate7 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
The Thief's Story narrates the relationship between a young thief and Anil, a trusting man who writes for magazines. The thief, Hari Singh, intends to rob Anil, but over time, Anil's kindness and willingness to teach him how to read and write transform Hari's intentions. One night after stealing Anil's money, Hari Singh has a change of heart and returns the money because he values the trust and education Anil offers him. The story explores themes of trust, transformation, and the inherent goodness in people.
Key Topics
- •Trust and Betrayal
- •Transformation and Redemption
- •Role of Education
- •Human Nature and Forgiveness
- •Economic Disparity
- •Moral Dilemmas
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the theme of trust and its impact on relationships.
- ✓Identify the key character traits of both Hari Singh and Anil.
- ✓Explore the significance of education in personal transformation.
- ✓Analyze how economic conditions influence behavior and choices.
- ✓Discuss the elements of redemption presented in the story.
Questions in Chapter
How does the thief think Anil will react to the theft?
Page 9
What does he say about the different reactions of people when they are robbed?
Page 9
Does Anil realise that he has been robbed?
Page 9
What are Hari Singh’s reactions to the prospect of receiving an education? Do they change over time?
Page 12
Why does not Anil hand the thief over to the police?
Page 13
Do you think people like Anil and Hari Singh are found only in fiction, or are there such people in real life?
Page 13
Additional Practice Questions
How does trust play a pivotal role in Hari Singh's transformation?
mediumAnswer: Trust is central to Hari Singh's transformation. Anil's unwavering trust and his decision to teach Hari Singh literacy skills create a moral dilemma for the thief, which culminates in his decision to return the stolen money, signifying a change in his character.
Discuss the significance of education in Hari Singh's life and the impact it has on his future.
mediumAnswer: Education represents hope and a means to a prosperous future for Hari Singh. Anil's willingness to teach him legitimates his potential for a better life, which ultimately encourages Hari to abandon his life of crime in pursuit of respectability.
What does Anil's character suggest about human nature and forgiveness?
hardAnswer: Anil's character suggests that human nature is capable of immense forgiveness and understanding. His reaction to Hari Singh's theft—without anger or retribution—demonstrates a belief in the possibility of change and redemption in others.
Compare the motivations behind Hari Singh's initial decision to steal with his final decision to return the money.
hardAnswer: Initially, Hari Singh's decision to steal is motivated by his need for money and excitement of theft. However, his final decision to return the money stems from the internal conflict caused by Anil's trust and the prospect of education, leading to a realization of long-term benefits over short-term gains.
Analyze the role of economic disparity in shaping the characters' relationships and decisions.
mediumAnswer: Economic disparity plays a significant role in shaping the dynamics between Hari Singh and Anil. Hari's criminal tendencies are a result of poverty, while Anil, despite his struggling circumstances, chooses generosity over suspicion, which ultimately influences Hari's decision to change.