Class 10 English - ODISHA

Supplementary: The Thief's Story

Supplementary: The Thief's Story by Ruskin Bond is a touching narrative about a fifteen-year-old thief named Hari Singh and his encounter with Anil, a kind and trusting young writer. Hari works for Anil, intending to steal from him, but Anil's immense trust and his willingness to teach Hari how to read, write, and add numbers deeply transform the young boy. For Class 10 Odisha Board (BSE) students, this chapter is crucial as it emphasizes human values like trust, compassion, and the power of education in reforming a misguided soul, frequently appearing in board examinations as long and short answer questions.

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Key Concepts

Character Transformation

The change in Hari Singh from a cunning, experienced thief to a remorseful and educated individual through love and trust.

The Power of Education

Anil teaching Hari to write his name, sentences, and numbers, which creates a turning point and gives Hari hope for a respectable future.

Trust vs. Betrayal

Anil's unwavering trust in Hari, despite knowing his background, which ultimately touches Hari's conscience and prevents the theft.

Internal Conflict

Hari's dilemma when he steals the money in the rain, torn between his greed and his desire to learn and live with respect.

Important Formulas

Definition: Compassion and education can reform even the most hardened criminals.
Theme: Trust is a powerful catalyst for human change and moral awakening.
Moral: Crime does not pay, and genuine friendship brings true happiness.

Board Exam Info

This chapter typically carries around 4 to 6 marks in the Odisha (BSE) Class 10 English examination. Common question types include short-answer questions testing plot details and character motives, as well as long-answer value-based questions focusing on the transformation of Hari Singh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Hari Singh return to Anil after stealing the money?

Hari returned because he realized that education could give him a respectable and honest life, and he did not want to lose Anil's trust and friendship.

How did Anil know that Hari had stolen the money?

Anil knew because the money notes were wet and damp from the night's rain, but he chose to ignore it and gave Hari fifty rupees, showing his forgiving nature.

What was the significance of learning to write whole sentences?

Learning to write whole sentences gave Hari confidence and the ambition to become a big, clever, and respected man, changing his perspective on life.

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