NCERT Solution of Mijbil the Otter Class 10 English
NCERT Solution of Mijbil the Otter Class 10 English of the book “First Flight” will explain Mijbil the Otter’s summary, critical analysis, difficult word meaning, and most important questions.
Summary and Analysis of “Mijbil the Otter”
The Mesopotamian Marshes, also known as the Iraqi Marshes, are a wetland area located in Southern Iraq and southwestern Iran as well as partially in northern Kuwait.
“Mijbil the Otter” is a delightful story written by Gavin Maxwell, recounting his experiences with a young otter named Mijbil. The narrative unfolds in the marshes of Iraq, where Maxwell, a British naturalist, is stationed. Maxwell’s encounters with Mijbil are both heartwarming and educational, as he learns about the otter’s habits, personality, and the challenges of caring for a wild animal.
The story begins with Maxwell receiving a surprise package containing a small otter from an acquaintance in the marshes. Maxwell is initially unsure of how to care for the otter but quickly becomes enamored with the playful creature. He names the otter Mijbil after the friend who sent him the gift.
As Maxwell spends more time with Mijbil, he discovers the otter’s mischievous nature and intelligence. Mijbil becomes a beloved companion, accompanying Maxwell on fishing trips and exploring the marshes together. However, caring for Mijbil proves to be a challenge, as the otter’s wild instincts often clash with Maxwell’s attempts to domesticate him.
Despite the challenges, Maxwell’s bond with Mijbil deepens, and he becomes determined to provide the best possible life for his otter friend. He constructs a special enclosure for Mijbil and goes to great lengths to ensure his well-being. However, tragedy strikes when Mijbil falls ill, and despite Maxwell’s efforts to save him, the otter passes away.
“Mijbil the Otter” is not only a heartwarming tale of friendship but also a poignant exploration of the complexities of human-animal relationships and the responsibilities of caring for wild creatures.
20 main points from the text, with emojis to make them more engaging:
- 🏠 Gavin Maxwell lived in a cottage in Camusfearna, Scotland.
- 🐕 His dog Jonnie died, leaving him feeling too sad to get another dog.
- 📖 Maxwell thought of keeping an otter as a pet instead.
- ✈️ He traveled to Southern Iraq in 1956.
- 🦦 Otters were common in the Tigris marshes.
- 📭 He went to Basra to collect his mail but faced delays.
- 📦 Maxwell received his otter in a sack from two Arabs.
- 🐉 The otter resembled a small dragon covered in mud scales.
- 🐾 The otter was named Mijbil, later known as Maxwell’s otter.
- 😴 Mijbil was aloof and indifferent at first but soon became affectionate.
- 🛁 Mijbil loved playing in water, splashing joyfully.
- 🏃 Mijbil escaped to the bathroom and managed to turn on the taps.
- ⚽ Mijbil played with a rubber ball, showcasing his playful nature.
- ✈️ Maxwell faced difficulties transporting Mij to England due to airline policies.
- 📦 Mij injured himself in the box, causing Maxwell distress.
- 🏃♂️ Mij escaped on the plane, causing a commotion.
- 👑 The air hostess was kind and understanding, helping Maxwell.
- 🏙️ In London, Mij played with toys and invented games.
- 🏫 Mij developed compulsive habits during walks in the city.
- ❓ Londoners had varied guesses about what Mij was, showing their unfamiliarity with otters.
These points capture the essence of the story with a touch of fun using emojis!
Difficult Words and Meanings
- Aloof
- Meaning: Distant, reserved, or indifferent in manner.
- Synonyms: Detached, remote, unapproachable
- Antonyms: Friendly, sociable, warm
- Appalling
- Meaning: Causing shock or dismay; horrific.
- Synonyms: Shocking, horrifying, dreadful
- Antonyms: Delightful, pleasant, wonderful
- Apathy
- Meaning: Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
- Synonyms: Indifference, unconcern, dispassion
- Antonyms: Enthusiasm, interest, passion
- Compulsive
- Meaning: Resulting from or relating to an irresistible urge.
- Synonyms: Obsessive, uncontrollable, overwhelming
- Antonyms: Optional, voluntary, discretionary
- Conjectural
- Meaning: Based on or involving conjecture; speculative.
- Synonyms: Speculative, hypothetical, assumed
- Antonyms: Factual, certain, definite
- Dreaded
- Meaning: Regarded with great fear or apprehension.
- Synonyms: Feared, feared greatly, terrorized
- Antonyms: Welcomed, desired, anticipated
- Engrossed
- Meaning: Having all one’s attention or interest absorbed by someone or something.
- Synonyms: Absorbed, captivated, preoccupied
- Antonyms: Distracted, uninterested, indifferent
- Eventful
- Meaning: Marked by interesting or exciting events.
- Synonyms: Memorable, significant, noteworthy
- Antonyms: Uneventful, insignificant, dull
- Flick
- Meaning: A sudden sharp movement.
- Synonyms: Snap, tap, swish
- Antonyms: Stillness, immobility, sluggishness
- Fumble
- Meaning: To handle clumsily.
- Synonyms: Grope, mishandle, blunder
- Antonyms: Manage, handle, manipulate
- Hostile
- Meaning: Unfriendly; antagonistic.
- Synonyms: Aggressive, confrontational, unfriendly
- Antonyms: Friendly, amiable, kind
- Indifferent
- Meaning: Having no particular interest or sympathy; unconcerned.
- Synonyms: Apathetic, unconcerned, detached
- Antonyms: Interested, concerned, passionate
- Irritation
- Meaning: The state of feeling annoyed, impatient, or slightly angry.
- Synonyms: Annoyance, vexation, exasperation
- Antonyms: Calmness, patience, serenity
- Laborer
- Meaning: A person doing unskilled manual work for wages.
- Synonyms: Worker, employee, operative
- Antonyms: Employer, manager, supervisor
- Marvel
- Meaning: To be filled with wonder or astonishment.
- Synonyms: Wonder, awe, astonishment
- Antonyms: Disregard, overlook, ignore
- Nuzzle
- Meaning: Rub or push against gently with the nose and mouth.
- Synonyms: Snuggle, cuddle, nestle
- Antonyms: Push away, repel, avoid
- Plunge
- Meaning: Jump or dive quickly and energetically.
- Synonyms: Dive, jump, immerse
- Antonyms: Ascend, rise, climb
- Provoking
- Meaning: Causing annoyance or anger.
- Synonyms: Annoying, irritating, exasperating
- Antonyms: Calming, soothing, pacifying
- Ricochet
- Meaning: A shot or hit that rebounds one or more times off a surface.
- Synonyms: Rebound, deflect, bounce
- Antonyms: Steady, fixed, immobile
- Squirm
- Meaning: Wriggle or twist the body from side to side.
- Synonyms: Wriggle, twist, writhe
- Antonyms: Still, stationary, motionless
- Thraldom
- Meaning: The state of being in bondage or subjugation.
- Synonyms: Enslavement, bondage, captivity
- Antonyms: Freedom, liberty, independence
- Trickle
- Meaning: A small flow of liquid.
- Synonyms: Drip, dribble, seep
- Antonyms: Pour, gush, stream
- Unapproachable
- Meaning: Not easy to talk to or deal with.
- Synonyms: Aloof, distant, intimidating
- Antonyms: Approachable, friendly, sociable
- Whimper
- Meaning: Make a series of low, feeble sounds expressive of fear, pain, or discontent.
- Synonyms: Whine, moan, cry
- Antonyms: Laugh, chuckle, guffaw
- Wrangle
- Meaning: Have a long, complicated dispute or argument.
- Synonyms: Argue, quarrel, bicker
- Antonyms: Agree, concur, harmonize
The best parts from the story “Mijbil the Otter”:
1. The Decision to Get an Otter
Gavin Maxwell decided to adopt an otter while he was in Iraq, as he believed his cottage in Camusfearna would be an ideal place for the otter to thrive. His friend suggested that he could find an otter in the marshes near the Tigris River, where otters were common and often tamed by the locals.
2. Meeting Mijbil
Maxwell’s first encounter with Mijbil was unforgettable. When the sack containing the otter was opened, the creature that emerged looked like a tiny dragon, covered in mud scales, with soft velvet fur visible underneath. Maxwell’s fascination with Mijbil began at that moment, leading to a lifelong attachment to otters.
3. Mijbil’s Playfulness
Mijbil quickly adapted to his new environment and showed his playful nature. Maxwell made a body-belt for him and took him to the bathroom, where Mijbil expressed sheer joy by plunging and rolling in the water, making splashes everywhere. This playfulness extended to other activities, such as shuffling a rubber ball around the room and juggling marbles on his belly.
4. Mijbil’s Intelligence
Mijbil demonstrated remarkable intelligence, particularly when he learned how to turn on the bathroom tap by himself. Maxwell was amazed to see Mijbil fumbling at the chromium taps with his paws and eventually managing to produce a trickle of water, then a full flow. This showed not only Mijbil’s curiosity but also his ability to manipulate objects in his environment.
5. The Journey to London
The journey from Iraq to London was eventful and challenging. The airline insisted that Mijbil be packed into a small box, which led to a distressing scene when Maxwell found Mijbil covered in blood after tearing the box’s lining. Despite the chaos, the air hostess’s understanding and kindness stood out, allowing Maxwell to hold Mijbil on his lap during the flight.
6. Mijbil in London
In London, Mijbil continued to charm everyone with his antics. He played with various toys, including ping-pong balls and marbles, and even invented his own games. Outside the house, Mijbil developed compulsive habits on walks, such as running along a low wall opposite Maxwell’s flat, much to the distraction of the schoolchildren and teachers inside.
7. Mijbil’s Popularity
The otter attracted a lot of attention in London, with people often guessing what kind of animal he was. The variety of guesses, ranging from a baby seal to a brontosaur, amused Maxwell. The most memorable encounter was with a laborer who, puzzled by Mijbil’s appearance, asked Maxwell, “Here, Mister — what is that supposed to be?”
These parts highlight the unique bond between Maxwell and Mijbil, the otter’s intelligence and playfulness, and the challenges and joys of caring for an exotic pet.
Oral Comprehension Check: “Mijbil the Otter”
Oral Comprehension Check – Section I
- What ‘experiment’ did Maxwell think Camusfearna would be suitable for?
- Maxwell thought Camusfearna would be suitable for keeping an otter as a pet instead of a dog because it was surrounded by water, making it a perfect place for such an experiment.
- Why does he go to Basra? How long does he wait there, and why?
- Maxwell goes to Basra to collect and answer his mail from Europe. He waits there for five days because his mail had not arrived, and he faced various delays in communication due to the telephone line being out of order, the exchange being closed for a religious holiday, and another breakdown.
- How does he get the otter? Does he like it? Pick out the words that tell you this.
- Maxwell gets the otter when two Arabs bring it to him in a sack with a note from his friend. Yes, he likes it. Words that indicate this include: “With the opening of that sack began a phase of my life that has not yet ended,” showing his excitement and the lasting impact the otter had on him.
- Why was the otter named ‘Maxwell’s otter’?
- The otter was named ‘Maxwell’s otter’ because it belonged to a race previously unknown to science and was eventually named Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli by zoologists.
- Tick the right answer. In the beginning, the otter was:
- aloof and indifferent
- What happened when Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom? What did it do two days after that?
- When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, the otter went wild with joy in the water, plunging and rolling in it. Two days after that, Mijbil escaped from Maxwell’s bedroom and went to the bathroom, where he managed to turn on the water tap with his paws.
Oral Comprehension Check – Section II
- How was Mij to be transported to England?
- Mij was to be transported to England by booking a flight to Paris on another airline, as the British airline to London would not fly animals. From Paris, he would then fly to London. The airline required Mij to be packed into a box not more than eighteen inches square.
- What did Mij do to the box?
- Mij tore the lining of the box to shreds, resulting in blood trickling and drying from its airholes and chinks around the lid.
- Why did Maxwell put the otter back in the box? How do you think he felt when he did this?
- Maxwell put the otter back in the box because it was almost time for the flight and the airport was five miles away. He must have felt anxious, worried, and guilty for causing the otter distress.
- Why does Maxwell say the airhostess was “the very queen of her kind”?
- Maxwell says the airhostess was “the very queen of her kind” because she was understanding, helpful, and suggested that he might prefer to have his pet on his knee, showing her kindness and accommodating nature.
- What happened when the box was opened?
- When the box was opened, Mijbil darted out and ran down the aircraft, causing chaos among the passengers, who mistook him for a rat. Eventually, he returned to Maxwell, nuzzling him with affection.
Oral Comprehension Check – Section III
- What game had Mij invented?
- Mij invented a game with a ping-pong ball where he would place it on the high end of a damaged suitcase lid, let it roll down, dash around to the other end to ambush its arrival, and then grab it to repeat the process.
- What are ‘compulsive habits’? What does Maxwell say are the compulsive habits of:
- (i) school children: Placing their feet squarely on the center of each paving block, touching every seventh upright of the iron railings, or passing to the outside of every second lamp post.
- (ii) Mij: Tugging Maxwell to a low wall on his way home, jumping onto it, and galloping the full length of its thirty yards.
- What group of animals do otters belong to?
- Otters belong to a group of animals called Mustellines, which also includes badgers, mongooses, weasels, stoats, and minks.
- What guesses did the Londoners make about what Mij was?
- Londoners made various guesses about what Mij was, including a baby seal, a squirrel, a walrus, a hippo, a beaver, a bear cub, a leopard, and even a brontosaur.
Thinking About the Text
- What things does Mij do which tell you that he is an intelligent, friendly, and fun-loving animal who needs love?
- Mij learns to turn on water taps, invents games with balls and marbles, follows Maxwell without a lead, comes when called, and exhibits affectionate behavior like nuzzling. These actions demonstrate his intelligence, friendliness, and playful nature, showing his need for love and companionship.
- What are some of the things we come to know about otters from this text?
- Otters are playful, enjoy water, and have a strong affinity for playing with small objects. They belong to the Mustellines group and can become affectionate pets. They also exhibit compulsive behaviors and have a keen interest in their surroundings.
- Why is Mij’s species now known to the world as Maxwell’s otter?
- Mij’s species is known to the world as Maxwell’s otter because it was a previously unknown race to science and was named Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli by zoologists in recognition of Maxwell’s discovery and relationship with the otter.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Who sends Maxwell the otter as a gift?
- A) A friend
- B) A relative
- C) A stranger
- D) A colleague
Answer: A) A friend
- What does Maxwell name the otter?
- A) Mijbil
- B) Otty
- C) Micky
- D) Ollie
Answer: A) Mijbil
- Where does the story take place?
- A) England
- B) Iraq
- C) America
- D) Australia
Answer: B) Iraq
- What challenges does Maxwell face in caring for Mijbil?
- A) Mijbil’s mischievous nature
- B) Mijbil’s illness
- C) Mijbil’s intelligence
- D) A and B
Answer: D) A and B
- What does Maxwell construct for Mijbil?
- A) A boat
- B) A cage
- C) An enclosure
- D) A house
Answer: C) An enclosure
- What happens to Mijbil towards the end of the story?
- A) He gets lost
- B) He falls ill and dies
- C) He returns to the wild
- D) He becomes friends with other otters
Answer: B) He falls ill and dies
- What is Maxwell’s profession?
- A) Farmer
- B) Artist
- C) Naturalist
- D) Politician
Answer: C) Naturalist
- What is the central theme of “Mijbil the Otter”?
- A) Friendship
- B) Loss
- C) Responsibility
- D) Nature
Answer: A) Friendship
- What emotion does Maxwell experience towards Mijbil?
- A) Anger
- B) Sadness
- C) Love
- D) Apathy
Answer: C) Love
- What does Maxwell learn about Mijbil as he spends more time with him?
- A) Mijbil is lonely
- B) Mijbil is intelligent
- C) Mijbil is aggressive
- D) A and B
Answer: D) A and B
Important Questions
- What does the arrival of Mijbil signify in Maxwell’s life?
- How does Maxwell’s relationship with Mijbil evolve throughout the story?
- Discuss the challenges Maxwell faces in caring for Mijbil.
- What do we learn about otters from Maxwell’s experiences with Mijbil?
- Analyze the significance of the setting (Iraqi marshes) in the story.
- How does Maxwell cope with the loss of Mijbil?
- Discuss the theme of human-animal relationships in “Mijbil the Otter.”
- How does Maxwell’s profession as a naturalist influence his interactions with Mijbil?
- Explore the symbolism of the enclosure Maxwell builds for Mijbil.
- Reflect on the lessons Maxwell learns from his experiences with Mijbil.
- Significance of Mijbil’s Arrival: The arrival of Mijbil in Maxwell’s life symbolizes a significant turning point. It brings a sense of companionship and purpose to Maxwell’s solitary existence in the Iraqi marshes. Mijbil’s presence introduces Maxwell to the joys and challenges of caring for a wild animal, ultimately enriching his life in unexpected ways.
- Evolution of Maxwell’s Relationship with Mijbil: Maxwell’s relationship with Mijbil evolves from one of curiosity and unfamiliarity to deep affection and understanding. Initially uncertain about how to care for the otter, Maxwell gradually forms a strong bond with Mijbil as they spend time together exploring the marshes. Their relationship is characterized by mutual trust, companionship, and a shared love for nature.
- Challenges in Caring for Mijbil: Maxwell faces numerous challenges in caring for Mijbil, including understanding the otter’s wild instincts, providing adequate shelter and food, and keeping him safe from predators. Additionally, Mijbil’s mischievous behavior and occasional illness test Maxwell’s patience and resourcefulness. Despite these challenges, Maxwell remains committed to ensuring Mijbil’s well-being and happiness.
- Learning About Otters: Through his experiences with Mijbil, Maxwell learns a great deal about otters’ behavior, habits, and intelligence. He observes Mijbil’s playful nature, his skill in swimming and fishing, and his ability to adapt to different environments. Maxwell gains insights into the otter’s natural instincts and the challenges they face in the wild, deepening his appreciation for these fascinating creatures.
- Significance of the Iraqi Marshes: The setting of the Iraqi marshes serves as more than just a backdrop for the story; it is integral to the narrative. The marshes provide a unique and picturesque environment for Maxwell and Mijbil’s adventures, showcasing the beauty and diversity of nature. The setting also underscores the theme of wilderness and the importance of preserving natural habitats for otters and other wildlife.
- Coping with Loss: Maxwell experiences profound grief and sadness upon losing Mijbil. He mourns the passing of his beloved otter companion and reflects on the joy and fulfillment that Mijbil brought into his life. Despite his grief, Maxwell finds solace in the memories of their time together and the knowledge that he provided Mijbil with love and care until the end.
- Theme of Human-Animal Relationships: “Mijbil the Otter” explores the complex and meaningful relationships that can develop between humans and animals. Through Maxwell and Mijbil’s bond, the story highlights the deep emotional connections that can transcend species boundaries. It also raises questions about our responsibilities towards the animals in our care and the ethical considerations of domesticating wild creatures.
- Influence of Maxwell’s Profession: Maxwell’s profession as a naturalist informs his interactions with Mijbil, as he approaches their relationship with a keen understanding of otter behavior and ecology. His knowledge and expertise enable him to provide Mijbil with a suitable environment and care while respecting the otter’s wild instincts. Maxwell’s profession also shapes his appreciation for the natural world and his commitment to conservation efforts.
- Symbolism of the Enclosure: The enclosure that Maxwell builds for Mijbil symbolizes both protection and confinement. It represents Maxwell’s desire to provide Mijbil with a safe and comfortable home while also acknowledging the limitations of domestication. The enclosure serves as a physical manifestation of their bond and the responsibilities of caring for a wild animal.
- Lessons Learned: Through his experiences with Mijbil, Maxwell learns valuable lessons about compassion, patience, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. He learns to appreciate the beauty and complexity of nature, as well as the fragility of life. Maxwell’s journey with Mijbil teaches him humility and resilience, leaving a lasting impact on his understanding of the natural world.
Further Activities
1. What things does Mij do which tell you that he is an intelligent, friendly, and fun-loving animal who needs love?
- Mij plays with toys for hours, shows interest in his surroundings, and quickly learns how to turn on the tap. These behaviors indicate his intelligence and playful nature. He also nuzzles Maxwell, showing his need for affection.
2. What are some of the things we come to know about otters from this text?
- Otters are playful and love water. They need a stimulating environment and can become attached to their owners. They are curious and intelligent, capable of learning and engaging in complex play.
3. Why is Mij’s species now known to the world as Maxwell’s otter?
- Mij’s species was previously unknown to science. It was named Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli, or Maxwell’s otter, in honor of Gavin Maxwell who discovered it.
4. Maxwell describes his pet otter with great affection and detail. Find the sentences that illustrate the following statements:
(i) Makes Mij seem almost human, like a small boy:
- “Mij discovered that if he placed the ball on the high end it would run down the length of the suitcase.”
(ii) Shows that he is often irritated with what Mij does:
- “He had been lucky to turn the tap the right way; on later occasions he would sometimes screw it up still tighter, chittering with irritation and disappointment at the tap’s failure to cooperate.”
(iii) Shows that he is often surprised by what Mij does:
- “I watched, amazed; in less than a minute he had turned the tap far enough to produce a trickle of water.”
(iv) Of Mij’s antics is comical:
- “There were squawks and shrieks, and a woman stood up on her seat screaming out, ‘A rat! A rat!'”
(v) Shows that he observes the antics of Mij very carefully:
- “He spent hours shuffling a rubber ball round the room like a four-footed soccer player using all four feet to dribble the ball.”
(vi) Shows that he thinks Mij is a very ordinary otter:
- This statement does not apply; Maxwell finds Mij extraordinary.
(vii) Shows that he thinks the otter is very unusual:
- “Mijbil, as I called the otter, was, in fact, of a race previously unknown to science.”
Grammar Practice
I. Describing a Repeated Action in the Past
Combine phrases from the table and create your own sentences:
- Emperor Akbar would be fond of musical evenings.
- Every evening we would take long walks on the beach.
- Fifty years ago, very few people used to own cars.
- Till the 1980s, Shanghai used to have very dirty streets.
- My uncle would spend his holidays by the sea.
II. Noun Modifiers
Identify the modifiers:
(i) An otter fixation: Noun (ii) The iron railings: Noun (iii) The Tigris marshes: Proper Noun (iv) The London streets: Proper Noun (v) Soft velvet fur: Adjective + Noun (vi) A four-footed soccer player: Adjective + Noun
Create noun-modifier phrases:
- Temple crossing
- Rough physique
- Heartbreaking expression
- Panoramic view
- Invigorating coffee
- Loud chatterbox
- First time
- Family celebration
III. Quantity Phrases
Match the words:
(i) A portion of – fried fish (ii) A pool of – water (iii) Flakes of – snow (iv) A huge heap of – stones (v) A gust of – wind (vi) Little drops of – blood (vii) A piece of – cotton (viii) A pot of – gold
Use phrases in sentences:
(i) My teacher gave me a bit of advice. (ii) Can you give me a lump of clay, please? (iii) The information you gave was a piece of useful information. (iv) Because of these factories, a cloud of smoke hangs over the city. (v) Two stones rubbed together can produce a spark of fire. (vi) He gave me a bunch of flowers on my birthday.
By observing and describing the otter’s behavior and combining the provided grammatical structures, you can enhance your understanding and writing skills.
“Mijbil the Otter” by Gavin Maxwell imparts several valuable lessons:
1. The Joy and Challenge of Unconventional Pets
Maxwell’s experience with Mijbil demonstrates the joy that pets can bring into our lives, even those that are unconventional. However, it also highlights the challenges of caring for exotic animals. This underscores the importance of being well-informed and prepared before taking on such a responsibility.
2. Commitment and Responsibility
The story emphasizes the commitment and responsibility required in pet ownership. Maxwell’s dedication to Mijbil, including making special arrangements for his transport and creating a suitable living environment, shows that pets require not just love but also proper care and attention to their specific needs.
3. Adaptability and Problem-Solving
Maxwell’s ability to adapt and solve problems, such as figuring out how to transport Mijbil and understanding his behavior, is a key lesson. This adaptability is crucial for any pet owner, as unexpected situations often arise that require quick thinking and flexibility.
4. Understanding and Respecting Animal Behavior
Maxwell learns about Mijbil’s natural behaviors, such as his love for water and playful nature. This teaches us the importance of understanding and respecting the natural instincts and behaviors of animals, rather than trying to mold them to fit our expectations.
5. Emotional Bonding and Companionship
The deep bond that develops between Maxwell and Mijbil illustrates the profound companionship that pets can offer. This emotional connection can be incredibly rewarding and enriching, highlighting the mutual benefits of the human-animal relationship.
6. Education and Awareness
The story raises awareness about otters and their behavior, contributing to a broader understanding and appreciation of wildlife. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and the role humans play in protecting and understanding different species.
7. Patience and Persistence
Maxwell’s journey with Mijbil required a great deal of patience and persistence, from dealing with bureaucratic challenges to understanding Mijbil’s needs and behaviors. This teaches us that patience and persistence are essential qualities in any undertaking, particularly in pet ownership.
Conclusion
“Mijbil the Otter” teaches us that pet ownership, especially of unconventional pets, is a significant responsibility that requires dedication, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the animal’s natural behavior. It also highlights the joy and companionship that pets bring into our lives, enriching us in countless ways. Through Maxwell’s experiences, we learn to approach pet ownership with the seriousness and respect it deserves, while also appreciating the unique bonds that can form between humans and animals.
You have read two lessons, A Triumph of Surgery and Mijbil the Otter, what parallel do you draw from both
Both “A Triumph of Surgery” by James Herriot and “Mijbil the Otter” by Gavin Maxwell share several parallels:
1. Theme of Animal Care and Responsibility
Both stories highlight the importance of proper animal care and the responsibility that comes with pet ownership. In “A Triumph of Surgery,” Mrs. Pumphrey’s overindulgence of her dog, Tricki, leads to health problems, illustrating the need for balanced care. Similarly, in “Mijbil the Otter,” Maxwell’s meticulous care and understanding of Mijbil’s needs emphasize the dedication required to look after a pet, especially an exotic one.
2. Human-Animal Bond
The stories showcase the deep bond between humans and animals. Mrs. Pumphrey’s affection for Tricki and Maxwell’s attachment to Mijbil demonstrate how pets can become integral parts of our lives, providing companionship and emotional support.
3. Challenges and Problem-Solving
Both narratives involve overcoming challenges related to pet care. Herriot has to find a solution to Tricki’s obesity and restore his health, while Maxwell faces logistical and behavioral challenges in taking care of an otter. These situations require patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
4. Learning and Adaptability
The characters in both stories learn and adapt through their experiences. Mrs. Pumphrey learns about the consequences of overfeeding her pet, while Maxwell learns about the unique behaviors and needs of an otter. This adaptability is key to providing appropriate care and ensuring the well-being of the animals.
5. Importance of Professional Help
The stories underscore the importance of seeking professional help for animal care. Mrs. Pumphrey relies on Herriot’s expertise to save Tricki, while Maxwell, although more hands-on, implicitly relies on the knowledge of zoologists to understand Mijbil’s species. Professional guidance is crucial in addressing health and behavioral issues in pets.
Conclusion
Both “A Triumph of Surgery” and “Mijbil the Otter” teach valuable lessons about the responsibilities of pet ownership, the deep bonds between humans and animals, and the importance of proper care and professional help. They emphasize that while pets bring immense joy and companionship, they also require thoughtful and dedicated care.
