Class 9 English - HARYANA
Supplementary: The Last Leaf
The Last Leaf by O. Henry is a touching story included in the Haryana Board Class 9 English supplementary reader, Moments. It revolves around two young artists, Sue and Johnsy, living in a Greenwich Village studio. When Johnsy falls seriously ill with pneumonia and develops a fatalistic mindset, believing she will die when the last ivy leaf falls from a vine outside her window, an old, unsuccessful artist named Behrman saves her life by painting a remarkably realistic leaf on the wall at the cost of his own life. The chapter is important for board exams as it tests reading comprehension, character analysis, and understanding of themes like sacrifice and hope.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Friendship and Care
Sue's unwavering support, patience, and concern for the sick Johnsy highlight the strength of true friendship during difficult times.
Power of Hope and Mindset
Johnsy's recovery is closely linked to her psychological state; losing the will to live worsens her illness, while a renewed sense of hope helps her heal.
The Masterpiece
Behrman's final painting of the ivy leaf on the brick wall is his long-awaited masterpiece because it saves a human life and conveys deep emotional meaning.
Ultimate Sacrifice
Behrman braves a freezing, stormy night to paint the leaf, ultimately sacrificing his own life to save Johnsy from pneumonia.
Irony
The story features situational irony when Behrman dies of pneumonia after catching a cold while painting in the rain, while Johnsy, who was expected to die, survives.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Haryana (BSEH) Class 9 English board examinations, this chapter regularly features in questions testing comprehension and character sketches. It typically carries around 3 to 5 marks, with questions ranging from short answer type questions about the plot and characters to long answer type questions focusing on the central theme of sacrifice and the character of Behrman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Johnsy counting the falling ivy leaves?
Johnsy was suffering from pneumonia and had lost her will to live. She mistakenly linked her life to the ivy vine, believing she would die when the last leaf fell.
What was Behrman's lifelong dream?
Behrman's lifelong dream was to paint a masterpiece, which he finally fulfilled by painting the last realistic ivy leaf on the wall to save Johnsy.
How did Behrman die?
Behrman died of pneumonia after spending a freezing, wet night outside painting the fake ivy leaf on the brick wall during a heavy storm.
Learn Supplementary: The Last Leaf with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards