Important Questions for Class 10 English Footprints Without Feet Chapter 2 - FREE PDF Download
The story 'The Thief’s Story' by Ruskin Bond, from Class 10 English Syllabus, is about a young boy, Hari Singh, who lives by stealing. One day, he meets Anil, a kind writer who trusts him even though he’s a stranger. Anil’s kindness makes Hari think about changing his ways and doing something good with his life. The story shows how a little trust and kindness can help someone start fresh.
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FAQs on CBSE Class 10 English (Footprints Without Feet) Important Questions Chapter 2 - The Thief’s Story
1. Who is the main character in Class 10 English, Chapter 2, 'The Thief’s Story'?
The main character is Hari Singh, a 15-year-old boy who lives by stealing from others. He is experienced at deception, frequently changing his name to avoid being caught by the police or past employers. However, when he meets Anil, a kind and trusting man, his perspective begins to shift. Throughout the story, Hari learns important lessons about honesty, kindness, and the value of education, making him rethink his choices and the direction of his life.
2. Why does Hari choose to live with Anil in 'The Thief’s Story'?
Hari approaches Anil with the intention of stealing from him eventually, seeing him as a trusting and easy target. After Anil agrees to let him stay and offers him food, Hari starts seeing an unexpected side of Anil's personality. Anil is kind and even begins teaching Hari how to cook, read, and write, which intrigues Hari, as he believes literacy will bring him more opportunities in life. Though his original motive was dishonest, Hari gradually grows to value Anil's kindness and the chance to learn from him.
3. What makes Hari hesitate to steal Anil’s money in 'The Thief’s Story'?
Hari hesitates to steal from Anil because he feels guilty about betraying Anil’s trust. Anil is the first person who treats Hari with genuine kindness and shows interest in helping him grow. Anil’s faith in him makes Hari question his lifestyle of dishonesty. When he realises that stealing from Anil could end the chance to learn and change for the better, Hari experiences an inner conflict, making him reconsider his decision. This hesitation shows that he is beginning to see the value of Anil’s trust and the positive influence it has on him.
4. How does Anil react after Hari returns the money in 'The Thief’s Story'?
Although Anil notices the wet money and likely realises that Hari had taken it, he doesn’t confront or scold him. Instead, he simply hands Hari a fifty-rupee note and mentions that he’ll start paying him regularly. He then encourages Hari to start learning to write full sentences, showing he has forgiven him and trusts him enough to continue their relationship. Anil’s calm reaction reflects his belief in second chances and his hope that his trust and kindness might inspire Hari to live honestly.
5. What does Hari learn from Anil in Class 10 English, Chapter 2, 'The Thief’s Story'?
Hari learns that kindness, patience, and trust can have a more powerful impact than he ever imagined. He realises that Anil’s faith in him is worth more than any amount of stolen money and that learning and self-respect are key to a better future. Through Anil, he understands that education can open doors for him and lead to self-respect, rather than living as a thief. The experience shows Hari a new path in life, encouraging him to choose honesty and personal growth.
6. What themes are explored in Class 10 English, Chapter 2, 'The Thief’s Story'?
The story explores several themes, including trust, kindness, change, and self-growth. Anil’s trust in Hari, despite knowing his nature, shows the power of kindness in influencing people. The theme of change is present as Hari, a habitual thief, begins to question his choices and finally decides to return the stolen money. Self-growth is a major theme, as Hari realises that honesty and education can lead to a more fulfilling life. The story emphasises how a positive influence can lead even a thief to transform and reconsider his path.
7. Why does Hari return the stolen money in 'The Thief’s Story'?
Hari realises that by stealing Anil’s money, he would lose the opportunity to learn and change his life. Anil’s trust and the chance to become literate mean more to him than the short-term gain of a few hundred rupees. His internal conflict and guilt make him return to Anil’s house and put the money back under the mattress. This act shows that Hari values Anil’s friendship and guidance more than the money, choosing a new direction for his life.
8. What makes Anil different from others Hari has known in 'The Thief’s Story'?
Unlike others Hari has encountered, Anil is genuinely kind and trusts Hari without expecting anything in return. He doesn’t treat Hari as a servant or someone to exploit but instead shows a willingness to teach him skills that could lead to a better future. Anil’s care and trust are new to Hari, who has only known people as targets or sources of profit. This unexpected kindness makes Anil unique in Hari’s life, encouraging him to rethink his lifestyle.
9. Why is the title 'The Thief’s Story' suitable for Class 10 English, Chapter 2?
The title reflects Hari’s journey as a thief who experiences a change in character through his relationship with Anil. It hints at the fact that this isn’t just about stealing or theft; it’s about Hari’s internal story, his struggle with his choices, and his journey toward honesty. The title captures the essence of Hari’s story as he goes from being a seasoned thief to someone who desires a better life, making it a fitting choice.
10. How does the story show the impact of trust in Class 10 English, Chapter 2, 'The Thief’s Story'?
The story shows that Anil’s trust in Hari makes a significant impact on Hari’s character. Anil’s decision not to punish or scold Hari for stealing, and his choice to keep helping him learn, deeply affects Hari. This unspoken forgiveness and belief in him encourages Hari to reflect on his actions and make a fresh start. The story reveals that genuine trust can lead even a habitual thief to reconsider his path in life and choose to change for the better.
