Class 10 English - TAMILNADU

Supplementary: Footprints without Feet

Supplementary chapter 'Footprints without Feet' from the Class 10 Tamil Nadu Samacheer Kalvi English textbook tells the intriguing story of Griffin, a brilliant scientist who discovers how to make his body transparent. Instead of using his scientific breakthrough for the betterment of society, he misuses it for selfish acts, thievery, and lawlessness, ultimately turning into a homeless wanderer in the cold London winter. This chapter is vital for board exams as it tests narrative comprehension, character analysis, and moral values. Students frequently encounter questions testing their understanding of Griffin's scientific genius versus his lack of empathy and social responsibility.

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Key Concepts

Griffin's Discovery

Griffin discovers a rare and potent set of drugs that can make human flesh transparent like a sheet of glass, though his body remained as solid as glass.

Misuse of Science

Instead of using invisibility for noble purposes, Griffin uses it to steal from a London store, escape his cruel landlord by setting the house on fire, and rob a theatrical company.

The Iping Episode

Griffin escapes to the remote village of Iping to hide, booking a room at an inn run by Mr. and Mrs. Hall, where his eccentric behavior and strange appearance arouse suspicion.

Lawless Scientist

The chapter highlights the theme that science without human values, morality, and social consciousness can become destructive and dangerous.

Important Formulas

Transparency = Scientific discovery + Rare drugs
Misuse of power = Loss of humanity and isolation
Greed + Lawlessness = Ultimate downfall and capture

Board Exam Info

In the Tamil Nadu (Samacheer Kalvi) Class 10 English board examinations, supplementary reading chapters like 'Footprints without Feet' typically carry around 5 to 8 marks. Questions usually appear as paragraph questions (to test character sketches and theme analysis), short-answer questions, and multiple-choice questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Griffin set fire to his landlord's house in revenge for trying to eject him. To escape capture, he had to remove all his clothes to remain invisible, leaving him completely naked, cold, and homeless in the chilly London winter.

Griffin set fire to his landlord's house in revenge and had to strip off all his clothes to remain invisible, leaving him naked and homeless in the cold London winter.

How did Griffin manage to rob the clergyman in Iping?

Griffin needed ready cash, so he made himself invisible, entered the clergyman's study, and stole money from the desk while the clergyman and his wife were asleep.

What is the main theme of 'Footprints without Feet'?

The main theme is that science should be used for the welfare of humanity. When scientific discoveries are misused for selfish and criminal purposes, they lead to isolation and destruction rather than progress.

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