Class 12 English - KERALA
Supplementary: The Tiger King
Supplementary: The Tiger King by Kalki is a satirical story that mocks the ego, power, and whimsical nature of those in authority. Set in the princely state of Pratibhabandapuram, it revolves around the Maharaja, Jung Jung Bahadur, who attempts to defy destiny after astrologers predict his death by a tiger. He goes on a massive tiger-killing spree, wiping out the tiger population in his state, only to meet a bizarre and ironic end through a wooden tiger. For Kerala SCERT Class 12 board exams, this chapter is crucial for testing your understanding of irony, satire, and critical thinking.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Satire and Irony
The story heavily employs dramatic irony, mocking the foolish eccentricities, vanity, and mortality of political power and British officialdom.
The Prophecy
At the Tiger King's birth, astrologers predict he will grow to be a warrior of warriors, but he must eventually meet his death at the hands of a hundredth tiger.
The Maharaja's Obsession
To disprove the prophecy, the king bans tiger hunting for everyone else in the state and kills ninety-nine tigers, risking his throne to find the final one.
Poetic Justice / Ironic Climax
The king is ultimately killed not by a live tiger, but by an infection from a sliver on a poorly carved wooden tiger he bought as a birthday gift for his son.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Kerala (SCERT) Class 12 English board examinations, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks, featuring frequently in paragraph-length questions, character sketches of the Tiger King, and questions based on the central theme of irony and ecological imbalance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Maharaja known as the Tiger King?
He was called the Tiger King because tigers dominated his life and his destiny, and he killed ninety-nine tigers to defy a prophecy before meeting his own ironic death.
How does the author use satire in the story?
The author uses satire to mock British imperialism, sycophantic courtiers who agree with everything the king says, and the ruthless exploitation of nature by humans.
What is the moral of 'The Tiger King'?
The story highlights that destiny cannot be cheated and that cruelty towards nature and wildlife will ultimately lead to a tragic and ironic downfall.
Learn Supplementary: The Tiger King with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards