NCERT Solution of The Thief’s Story Class 10 English of the book “Footprints
Without Feet” will explain The Thief’s Story’s summary, critical analysis, difficult word meaning, and most important questions.
NCERT Solution of The Thief’s Story Class 10 English
Summary of The Thief’s Story in English
The story “The Thief’s Story” revolves around a 15-year-old experienced thief who goes by different names to evade the police and his former employers. One day, he meets Anil, a kind-hearted and trusting young man. Despite being initially skeptical, Anil offers the thief a job and a place to stay in his room above the Jumna Sweet Shop.
Anil teaches the thief basic skills like cooking and writing, showing kindness and patience towards him. However, the thief struggles with feelings of guilt as he plans to steal the money Anil earned from selling a book to a publisher. Despite his intentions, the thief finds it difficult to go through with the theft due to Anil’s trust and kindness.
In the end, the thief decides to return the stolen money and expresses his desire to learn from Anil. This act of honesty and remorse leads to Anil’s acceptance and encouragement. The story highlights themes of redemption, the power of trust and kindness, and the importance of second chances.
Overall, “The Thief’s Story” is a heartwarming tale that emphasizes the transformative potential of compassion, trust, and the willingness to change.
Critical Explanation of the Chapter: The Thief’s Story
“The Thief’s Story” narrates the journey of a young thief who encounters Anil, a kind-hearted man, and undergoes a transformation. The chapter explores themes of trust, redemption, and the power of education.
The protagonist, a seasoned thief, meets Anil and seeks employment. Despite initial setbacks, Anil offers him food, shelter, and an opportunity to learn. The thief, initially driven by self-interest, gradually forms a bond with Anil, who teaches him basic skills and values. However, the thief is tempted to steal from Anil but ultimately chooses to return the stolen money, realizing the importance of trust and integrity.
Through the character development of the thief and Anil’s compassionate nature, the chapter highlights the potential for redemption and the impact of kindness on individuals.
Difficult Words: The Thief’s Story
- Experienced – साक्षात्कारवान
- Synonyms: Seasoned, Skilled
- Antonyms: Inexperienced, Novice
- Easy-going – सरल, आसान
- Synonyms: Relaxed, Laid-back
- Antonyms: Intense, Serious
- Flattery – खुशामद, चापलूसी
- Synonyms: Adulation, Sycophancy
- Antonyms: Criticism, Insult
- Modestly – विनम्रता से, नम्रतापूर्वक
- Synonyms: Humbly, Simply
- Antonyms: Arrogantly, Boastfully
- Compassionate – दयालु, करुणासिंधु
- Synonyms: Empathetic, Sympathetic
- Antonyms: Callous, Heartless
- Redemption – पुनरुत्थान, निराकरण
- Synonyms: Salvation, Atonement
- Antonyms: Condemnation, Damnation
- Tempted – प्रलोभित, आकर्षित
- Synonyms: Enticed, Lured
- Antonyms: Resisted, Refused
- Integrity – अखंडता, ईमानदारी
- Synonyms: Honesty, Morality
- Antonyms: Dishonesty, Corruption
- Self-interest – स्वार्थ, आत्मिक हित
- Synonyms: Personal gain, Selfishness
- Antonyms: Altruism, Selflessness
- Compassion – करुणा, दया
- Synonyms: Empathy, Pity
- Antonyms: Indifference, Cruelty
Central Idea: The Thief’s Story
The central idea revolves around the transformative journey of the protagonist from a life of crime to one of redemption and self-discovery, facilitated by the kindness and mentorship of Anil.
Theme: The Thief’s Story
Themes explored include trust, redemption, compassion, integrity, and the transformative power of education. The narrative underscores the significance of trust, empathy, and moral values in shaping individual identity and fostering personal growth.
Reading Comprehension: The chapter “The Thief’s Story” follows the journey of a young thief who meets Anil, a compassionate man, and experiences a change of heart. Initially driven by self-interest, the thief forms a bond with Anil, who offers him shelter and education. Despite the temptation to steal from Anil, the thief ultimately returns the stolen money, realizing the value of trust and integrity. The chapter highlights themes of redemption, compassion, and the transformative power of kindness.
Important Question: Why does the thief ultimately choose to return the stolen money to Anil, and what does this decision reveal about his character development and moral growth?
The story “The Thief’s Story” teaches us several valuable lessons:
- The Power of Kindness: Anil’s compassionate and generous nature towards the thief, despite knowing his background, demonstrates the transformative power of kindness. It shows that even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on others.
- The Importance of Trust: The story emphasizes the significance of trust in relationships. Anil’s trust in the thief, despite his past, eventually leads to the thief’s redemption. It highlights how trust can inspire individuals to change for the better.
- Redemption and Second Chances: The story illustrates the possibility of redemption and second chances for individuals who have made mistakes in the past. Through Anil’s guidance and support, the thief is given an opportunity to turn his life around and make amends for his past actions.
- The Value of Education: Anil’s willingness to teach the thief basic skills like cooking and writing reflects the importance of education in empowering individuals and opening up opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Integrity and Honesty: The thief’s decision to return the stolen money to Anil showcases the importance of integrity and honesty. It highlights that doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult, is essential for personal integrity and moral character.
Overall, the story encourages us to practice kindness, trust others, believe in the possibility of redemption, value education, and uphold principles of integrity and honesty in our interactions with others.
10 Most Important Questions and Answers:
- Who does ‘I’ refer to in this story?
- ‘I’ refers to the narrator, who is a thief.
- What is he “a fairly successful hand” at?
- The narrator is “a fairly successful hand” at thievery.
- What does he get from Anil in return for his work?
- Initially, the narrator gets food and shelter from Anil in return for his work.
- How does the thief think Anil will react to the theft?
- The thief believes that Anil’s reaction to the theft will be marked by sadness, not for the loss of money, but for the loss of trust.
- What does he say about the different reactions of people when they are robbed?
- The thief observes that different people react differently when they are robbed. Greedy people show fear, rich people show anger, and poor people show acceptance.
- Does Anil realise that he has been robbed?
- Anil realizes that he has been robbed but does not confront the thief directly.
- What are Hari Singh’s reactions to the prospect of receiving an education? Do they change over time?
- Initially, Hari Singh sees education as a means to achieve success and prosperity. However, over time, he realizes that true success and respect come from integrity and hard work. He returns to Anil to learn from him, indicating a change in perspective.
- Why does not Anil hand the thief over to the police? Do you think most people would have done so?
- Anil does not hand the thief over to the police because he values trust and believes in giving people second chances. Most people may not have acted similarly, as they might prioritize justice over forgiveness.
- Do you think people like Anil and Hari Singh are found only in fiction, or are there such people in real life?
- People like Anil and Hari Singh exist in real life, although they may be rare. Anil’s kindness and Hari Singh’s redemption reflect qualities found in some individuals.
- Do you think it a significant detail in the story that Anil is a struggling writer? Does this explain his behaviour in any way?
- Anil’s profession as a struggling writer adds depth to his character and explains his compassionate nature. His own experiences with hardships may contribute to his empathy towards others.
Theme: The central themes of “The Thief’s Story” revolve around redemption, trust, compassion, and the transformative power of education. It explores how trust can lead to redemption and how education can change one’s perspective on life.
Title Explanation: The title “The Thief’s Story” succinctly captures the essence of the narrative, focusing on the experiences and perspective of the thief who undergoes a transformation throughout the story. It highlights the journey of the protagonist from a life of crime to one of introspection and redemption.
Important Points of “The Thief’s Story” with Emojis
- 🏙️ Hari Singh meets Anil at a wrestling match.
- 🙇 Hari Singh introduces himself and flatters Anil to gain his trust.
- 🥣 Hari Singh lies about being able to cook to get food and shelter.
- 🏠 Anil takes Hari Singh to his room and offers him a place to stay.
- 🐶 Anil throws away the first meal cooked by Hari Singh because it was terrible.
- 👨🏫 Anil teaches Hari Singh to cook, write his name, and add numbers.
- ☕ Hari Singh makes tea and runs errands for Anil.
- 💸 Anil earns money irregularly by writing for magazines.
- 💵 Anil brings home a bundle of notes after selling a book.
- 🔑 Anil trusts Hari Singh with the keys to his house.
- 🛏️ Hari Singh steals the money from under Anil’s mattress.
- 🚉 Hari Singh runs to the railway station but hesitates to board the train.
- 🌧️ Hari Singh wanders through the rainy night, contemplating his actions.
- 📝 Hari Singh realizes the value of education over quick money.
- 🔙 Hari Singh decides to return the stolen money to Anil.
- 🌙 Hari Singh sneaks back into Anil’s room and returns the money.
- ☕ Anil gives Hari Singh a wet fifty-rupee note the next morning.
- 💼 Anil announces that Hari Singh will be paid regularly.
- 🖋️ Anil starts teaching Hari Singh to write sentences.
- 😊 Hari Singh smiles genuinely, feeling grateful and accepted.
These points summarize the key events and lessons of “The Thief’s Story,” highlighting the transformation of Hari Singh from a thief to a more honest individual through Anil’s kindness and trust.
Lesson from “The Thief’s Story”
The story “The Thief’s Story” by Ruskin Bond imparts several important lessons:
- The Power of Trust and Kindness: Anil’s trust and kindness towards Hari Singh play a crucial role in transforming the young thief’s life. This highlights the impact of positive human relationships and how they can bring about change in people.
- Value of Education: Hari Singh realizes that education can open doors to greater opportunities than a life of crime. The story emphasizes the importance of learning and self-improvement.
- Moral Dilemma and Redemption: The story showcases the internal conflict Hari Singh faces between continuing his life of theft and choosing a more honest path. His decision to return the stolen money signifies his desire for redemption and a better life.
- Empathy and Understanding: Anil’s understanding and non-judgmental attitude towards Hari Singh reflect the importance of empathy in dealing with others, especially those who might be going through difficult times.
Overall, the story teaches that even those who have made mistakes in the past can change for the better when given the right support and opportunities.
30 MCQs with Answers
- Who is the protagonist of “The Thief’s Story”?
- a) Anil
- b) Hari Singh
- c) Ruskin Bond
- d) The wrestler
- Answer: b) Hari Singh
- How old is Hari Singh when he meets Anil?
- a) 10
- b) 15
- c) 20
- d) 25
- Answer: b) 15
- What is Anil doing when Hari Singh first approaches him?
- a) Writing
- b) Cooking
- c) Watching a wrestling match
- d) Reading a book
- Answer: c) Watching a wrestling match
- What name does Hari Singh give Anil when they first meet?
- a) Anil
- b) Ruskin
- c) Singh
- d) Hari Singh
- Answer: d) Hari Singh
- What is the main reason Hari Singh decides to work for Anil?
- a) To learn cooking
- b) To steal from him
- c) To become a wrestler
- d) To gain confidence
- Answer: b) To steal from him
- Where does Anil take Hari Singh after they first meet?
- a) To a restaurant
- b) To a bookstore
- c) To his room above the Jumna Sweet Shop
- d) To a wrestling club
- Answer: c) To his room above the Jumna Sweet Shop
- How does Anil react to the first meal Hari Singh cooks?
- a) He loves it
- b) He eats it happily
- c) He gives it to a stray dog
- d) He throws it away angrily
- Answer: c) He gives it to a stray dog
- What does Anil promise to teach Hari Singh?
- a) Wrestling
- b) Cooking
- c) Writing and adding numbers
- d) Singing
- Answer: c) Writing and adding numbers
- How does Hari Singh make extra money while working for Anil?
- a) By stealing from Anil
- b) By selling sweets
- c) By making a profit on the day’s supplies
- d) By writing for magazines
- Answer: c) By making a profit on the day’s supplies
- What is Anil’s profession?
- a) Cook
- b) Writer
- c) Wrestler
- d) Shopkeeper
- Answer: b) Writer
- Where does Anil hide his money?
- a) In a safe
- b) Under his mattress
- c) In a drawer
- d) In a cupboard
- Answer: b) Under his mattress
- How much money does Hari Singh steal from Anil?
- a) 100 rupees
- b) 200 rupees
- c) 500 rupees
- d) 600 rupees
- Answer: d) 600 rupees
- Why does Hari Singh decide not to board the train to Lucknow?
- a) He misses the train
- b) He feels guilty
- c) He is caught by the police
- d) He loses the money
- Answer: b) He feels guilty
- Where does Hari Singh go after deciding not to take the train?
- a) To another city
- b) Back to Anil’s room
- c) To the police station
- d) To a friend’s house
- Answer: b) Back to Anil’s room
- What does Anil do the next morning after Hari Singh returns the money?
- a) Calls the police
- b) Kicks Hari Singh out
- c) Gives him a fifty-rupee note
- d) Yells at him
- Answer: c) Gives him a fifty-rupee note
- How does Anil respond to the theft when he realizes it?
- a) Angrily
- b) With sadness
- c) Calmly
- d) With joy
- Answer: c) Calmly
- What does Anil say they will start doing that day?
- a) Cooking new dishes
- b) Writing sentences
- c) Watching movies
- d) Practicing wrestling
- Answer: b) Writing sentences
- Why does Hari Singh return the stolen money?
- a) He is caught by Anil
- b) He realizes the value of education
- c) He spends it all
- d) He wants to buy something
- Answer: b) He realizes the value of education
- What lesson does Hari Singh learn by the end of the story?
- a) Honesty is important
- b) Crime pays
- c) Stealing is easy
- d) Money is everything
- Answer: a) Honesty is important
- Who is the author of “The Thief’s Story”?
- a) Ruskin Bond
- b) Rabindranath Tagore
- c) R.K. Narayan
- d) Premchand
- Answer: a) Ruskin Bond
- Why did Hari Singh take a new name every month?
- a) To stay ahead of the police
- b) To make new friends
- c) To impress people
- d) To avoid getting bored
- Answer: a) To stay ahead of the police
- What did Anil do with the money Hari Singh initially cooked badly?
- a) Kept it
- b) Threw it away
- c) Gave it to a stray dog
- d) Spent it
- Answer: c) Gave it to a stray dog
- What kind of life does Hari Singh imagine with the stolen money?
- a) Becoming a writer
- b) Living like an oil-rich Arab
- c) Becoming a wrestler
- d) Traveling the world
- Answer: b) Living like an oil-rich Arab
- Why is it difficult for Hari Singh to rob Anil?
- a) Anil is greedy
- b) Anil is careless and trusting
- c) Anil is very cautious
- d) Anil has many friends
- Answer: b) Anil is careless and trusting
- What does Hari Singh ultimately seek by staying with Anil?
- a) Wealth
- b) Education and self-improvement
- c) Fame
- d) Revenge
- Answer: b) Education and self-improvement
- Why does Anil not hand Hari Singh over to the police?
- a) He is too busy
- b) He is not aware of the theft
- c) He believes in giving second chances
- d) He doesn’t care about the money
- Answer: c) He believes in giving second chances
- What does Anil’s profession reveal about his character?
- a) He is greedy
- b) He is simple and trusting
- c) He is wealthy
- d) He is strict and harsh
- Answer: b) He is simple and trusting
- What does Hari Singh feel after returning the money to Anil?
- a) Regret
- b) Relief and gratitude
- c) Anger
- d) Fear
- Answer: b) Relief and gratitude
- What does the story suggest about the power of education?
- a) It is unnecessary
- b) It can transform lives
- c) It is boring
- d) It is only for the wealthy
- Answer: b) It can transform lives
- What is the underlying message of “The Thief’s Story”?
- a) Trust and kindness can lead to positive change
- b) Crime is the best way to make money
- c) Education is overrated
- d) Greed is good
- Answer: a) Trust and kindness can lead to positive change
Reading and Analysis of “The Thief’s Story” by Ruskin Bond
Understanding the Characters and Plot
- Who does ‘I’ refer to in this story?
- Answer: ‘I’ refers to Hari Singh, the protagonist and narrator of the story, who is a young thief.
- What is he “a fairly successful hand” at?
- Answer: Hari Singh is “a fairly successful hand” at stealing. He has honed his skills as a thief and is quite adept at deceiving people.
- What does he get from Anil in return for his work?
- Answer: In return for his work, Hari Singh receives food, shelter, and a small amount of money. Anil also teaches him to read, write, and do basic arithmetic, which Hari Singh values more as the story progresses.
- How does the thief think Anil will react to the theft?
- Answer: Hari Singh believes that Anil will be sad and disappointed, not because of the money lost, but because he had trusted Hari Singh.
- What does he say about the different reactions of people when they are robbed?
- Answer: Hari Singh observes that different people react differently to being robbed. He notes that a greedy man’s face shows fear, the rich man shows anger, and the poor man shows acceptance.
- Does Anil realize that he has been robbed?
- Answer: Yes, Anil realizes that he has been robbed when he notices the money is wet (from Hari Singh returning it after the rain) but he chooses not to confront Hari Singh about it.
Hari Singh’s Changing Perspective on Education
- What are Hari Singh’s reactions to the prospect of receiving an education? Do they change over time?
- Answer: Initially, Hari Singh views education as a means to enhance his thieving skills (“once I could write like an educated man there would be no limit to what I could achieve”). Over time, he begins to see education as a way to improve his life in a more legitimate way (“Whole sentences, I knew, could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees”). His realization that education could lead to a respectable and clever life prompts him to return to Anil.
- What makes him return to Anil?
- Answer: Hari Singh returns to Anil because he understands the long-term value of education and the genuine kindness Anil has shown him. He realizes that being educated and respected is more valuable than the transient gains from stealing.
Anil’s Response to the Theft
- Why does not Anil hand the thief over to the police? Do you think most people would have done so? In what ways is Anil different from such employers?
- Answer: Anil does not hand Hari Singh over to the police because he believes in giving people second chances and sees potential for change in Hari Singh. Most people might have handed the thief over to the authorities, but Anil’s empathy and understanding set him apart. He sees beyond the theft and chooses to continue to support Hari Singh’s education and development.
Real-life Parallels and Setting
- Do you think people like Anil and Hari Singh are found only in fiction, or are there such people in real life?
- Answer: People like Anil and Hari Singh do exist in real life. There are individuals who, despite difficult circumstances, show trust and kindness, believing in the potential for change in others. Similarly, there are people who, given the right support and opportunities, can turn their lives around.
- Do you think it is a significant detail in the story that Anil is a struggling writer? Does this explain his behavior in any way?
- Answer: Anil being a struggling writer is significant as it highlights his empathetic nature and his understanding of hardships. His own struggles might make him more compassionate towards Hari Singh and more willing to give him a chance to improve his life.
- Have you met anyone like Hari Singh? Can you think and imagine the circumstances that can turn a fifteen-year-old boy into a thief?
- Answer: Many children turn to theft due to poverty, lack of education, or absence of parental guidance. Societal neglect and the need to survive can push young individuals towards crime.
- Where is the story set? Which language or languages are spoken in these places? Do you think the characters in the story spoke to each other in English?
- Answer: The story is likely set in a North Indian city, as suggested by the names and settings like the Jumna Sweet Shop. Languages spoken could include Hindi and other regional languages. It is unlikely that the characters spoke to each other in English; they probably conversed in Hindi or a local dialect, though the story is written in English for a broader readership.
CBSE CLASS 10 QUESTION MARCH 2023-24 Long Answer Question
Hari Singh says-” He knew it but neither his lips nor his eyes showed anything.” Anil successfully addressed the situationby not addressing it all. Elaborate based on your reading of “The Thief’s Story”.
In “The Thief’s Story” by Ruskin Bond, the protagonist Hari Singh, a young and skilled thief, experiences a profound transformation through his interactions with Anil, a kind and trusting writer. The statement “He knew it but neither his lips nor his eyes showed anything” highlights Anil’s perceptive yet composed reaction to Hari Singh’s betrayal. This crucial moment demonstrates Anil’s wisdom and subtle approach in dealing with the situation.
Understanding the Context
Hari Singh decides to steal from Anil after spending time working for him. He takes money from Anil’s house but soon feels guilty and returns the money, placing it back without Anil’s knowledge. The following morning, Anil behaves as if nothing has happened, even though it’s implied that he knows Hari Singh attempted to rob him. Anil’s decision to not address the theft directly plays a pivotal role in Hari’s transformation.
Anil’s Subtle Approach
Anil’s reaction can be broken down into several key points:
- Trust and Redemption: Anil’s silence and his behavior suggest a deep understanding of human nature. By not confronting Hari Singh directly, Anil gives him an opportunity for redemption. This act of silent trust is more powerful than any words of reprimand could be, conveying a message of forgiveness and belief in Hari’s potential to change.
- Non-verbal Communication: Anil’s eyes and lips reveal nothing, indicating his control over his emotions and his decision to address the issue in a non-confrontational manner. This calm demeanor can be interpreted as a form of silent communication, where Anil’s actions (or lack thereof) speak volumes about his trust and wisdom.
- Encouragement and Education: Anil’s choice to teach Hari Singh to read and write despite the betrayal indicates his belief in the transformative power of education. By focusing on Hari’s education rather than his wrongdoing, Anil provides a constructive path forward, subtly guiding Hari towards a better life.
The Impact on Hari Singh
Hari Singh’s internal conflict and subsequent decision to return the stolen money are central to his character development. Anil’s reaction plays a crucial role in solidifying this transformation:
- Guilt and Realization: Hari’s guilt after stealing and his decision to return the money highlight his internal struggle and desire for change. Anil’s silent acknowledgment of the situation amplifies this guilt, making Hari more introspective about his actions.
- Opportunity for Change: Anil’s non-confrontational approach provides Hari with a chance to reflect on his behavior and choose a different path. This opportunity for self-reflection and change is critical in Hari’s journey from a thief to an honest individual.
- Building Trust: By not addressing the theft, Anil rebuilds the trust between them in a subtle yet profound way. This restored trust is crucial for Hari’s sense of self-worth and his decision to embrace a more honest life.
Conclusion
Anil’s handling of the situation by not addressing it directly showcases his deep understanding of human nature and his belief in the power of silent trust and education. This approach not only prevents the situation from escalating but also provides Hari Singh with a powerful lesson in trust, redemption, and personal growth. Through this silent yet impactful reaction, Anil successfully encourages Hari to transform his life, highlighting the story’s underlying themes of forgiveness, trust, and the potential for change in everyone.
Additional Reading Suggestions
- ‘He Said It with Arsenic’ by Ruskin Bond
- ‘Vanka’ by Anton Chekhov
- ‘A Scandal in Bohemia’ by Arthur Conan Doyle
These stories also explore themes of trust, morality, and the complexities of human nature, much like “The Thief’s Story.”
“The Thief’s Story” by Ruskin Bond, several key lessons can be derived:
- The Power of Trust and Compassion: Anil’s trust in Hari Singh, despite knowing his background as a thief, shows the transformative power of trust and compassion. It highlights that giving someone a second chance and believing in their potential can lead to positive changes.
- The Value of Education: Hari Singh’s journey from a young thief to someone who begins to appreciate the value of education underscores the importance of learning and self-improvement. Education not only opens doors to opportunities but also shapes one’s moral compass and aspirations.
- Redemption and Personal Growth: The story portrays how individuals, even those with a troubled past, can seek redemption and strive for personal growth. Hari Singh’s internal conflict and eventual realization about the consequences of his actions demonstrate the potential for change and self-reflection.
- The Complexity of Morality: The story challenges simplistic notions of morality by depicting characters who are morally ambiguous. Anil’s decision not to report Hari Singh to the police raises questions about forgiveness, empathy, and the nuances of ethical behavior.
- The Impact of Kindness and Understanding: Anil’s kindness and understanding towards Hari Singh illustrate the profound impact that supportive relationships and positive influences can have on individuals, especially those facing adversity.
- Choices and Consequences: The story underscores the consequences of one’s choices. Hari Singh’s decision to steal from Anil leads to internal turmoil and reflection on the nature of his actions, highlighting the ethical dilemmas individuals face in their daily lives.
Overall, “The Thief’s Story” teaches us about the complexities of human nature, the transformative power of trust and compassion, and the importance of moral growth and personal reflection in shaping one’s life journey.
