Class 9 English - MP
Supplementary: The Beggar
Supplementary: The Beggar by Anton Chekhov is an inspiring Class 9 story from the MPBSE curriculum that highlights the transformative power of compassion and honest labor. It revolves around a struggling drunkard named Lushkoff, who is reformed not by scolding, but through the silent, hard work provided by a cook named Olga, and the strict guidance of an advocate named Sergei. This chapter is very important for board exams as it tests reading comprehension, character analysis, and moral values. Questions often focus on Lushkoff's transformation and Olga's crucial role in changing his life.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Lushkoff's Transformation
Lushkoff changes from a lying, helpless beggar into a respectable notary through physical labor and moral awakening.
Role of Sergei
Sergei acts as a strict catalyst by offering Lushkoff odd jobs, forcing him to quit begging and start working.
Olga's Compassion
Though she initially scolded and cried for Lushkoff, Olga secretly chopped all the wood for him out of genuine pity, which ultimately melted his heart and reformed him.
Theme of Dignity of Labor
The story emphasizes that honest work brings self-respect, while pity and alms alone cannot cure a person's inner ruin.
Irony in the Climax
Sergei believes it was his scolding and jobs that saved Lushkoff, but the real transformation was brought about by Olga's emotional sacrifice.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Madhya Pradesh (MPBSE) Class 9 English board exams, supplementary chapters like 'The Beggar' usually carry around 4 to 6 marks. Common question types include short answer questions based on character traits (Sergei, Lushkoff, Olga) and long-answer questions about the moral message or the turning point of the story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Lushkoff lie about being a school student and a village school teacher?
Lushkoff lied to evoke pity and sympathy from people so they would easily give him alms for his survival and alcohol.
Who actually chopped the wood for Sergei, and why?
Olga, the cook, actually chopped the wood because she pitied Lushkoff's miserable condition and wanted to reform him.
How did Sergei help Lushkoff in the beginning?
Sergei gave Lushkoff odd jobs like chopping wood, shoveling snow, and moving furniture, refusing to encourage his begging.
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