Chapter 5: Princess September

English - It So Happened • Class 8

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Chapter Analysis

Intermediate10 pages • English

Quick Summary

The chapter 'Princess September' follows the story of a young princess who receives a singing bird after the death of her pet parrot. Despite her sisters' advice to cage the bird, she learns the value of freedom—a theme conveyed through the bird's deteriorating health when trapped. September ultimately prioritizes the bird's happiness over her desire for ownership, a decision that grows their bond and leads to mutual joy and beauty.

Key Topics

  • Freedom and Confinement
  • Compassion and Love
  • Sibling Relationships
  • Consequences of Conformity
  • Symbolism of Nature
  • Cultural Beliefs and Practices

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the thematic contrast between freedom and captivity.
  • Analyze character growth regarding Princess September's values.
  • Discuss the moral implications of guidance and advice.
  • Interpret the symbolic elements in stories.
  • Appreciate the emotional and aesthetic value of music and nature.
  • Reflect on personal experiences of control versus freedom.

Questions in Chapter

How many daughters did the royal couple have?

Answer: The royal couple had nine daughters.

Page 3

Why were they named after the months of the year?

Answer: The King had trouble remembering so many names, so he named them after the months.

Page 3

The King had a peculiar habit. What was it? Why is it called peculiar?

Answer: The King gave gifts on his birthday instead of receiving them, which is unusual.

Page 3

What was Princess September's reaction to the loss of her parrot?

Answer: Princess September burst into tears.

Page 4

What pulled the Princess out of her gloom?

Answer: A singing bird that flew into her room.

Page 4

What is the King's opinion about his Councillors?

Answer: The King is tired of them because they simply repeat the same thing in different ways without meaning much.

Page 6

The eight Princesses made an offer to Princess September. What was it?

Answer: They offered to buy her another parrot.

Page 6

Additional Practice Questions

Why does Princess September feel anxious when the bird is away?

medium

Answer: Princess September worried that the bird might get into trouble, forget her, or take a liking to someone else.

What lesson does Princess September learn about ownership and freedom?

hard

Answer: Princess September learns that true love involves letting others be free, as trying to control them could harm their nature.

How does the story reflect on the consequences of listening to poor advice?

medium

Answer: Listening to her sisters' advice temporarily made Princess September lose the beautiful songs and companionship of the bird, highlighting the importance of trusting oneself over well-meaning but misguided advice.

Discuss the symbolism of the cage in Princess September's story.

hard

Answer: The cage symbolizes the restriction of freedom, reflecting how confinement can stifle one's spirit and happiness, as shown by the bird's health deteriorating.

Why is music emphasized as significant in the story?

medium

Answer: Music, represented through the bird's song, is a medium for joy, beauty, and emotional expression, contrasting with the monotonous parrots, and enriching the Princess's life.