Class 9 English - ODISHA
Supplementary: The Beggar
Supplementary chapter 'The Beggar' by Anton Chekhov, prescribed for Class 9 students under the Board of Secondary Education (BSE) Odisha, tells a touching story of transformation. It revolves around a ragged, lying beggar named Lushkoff who is reformed not by harsh scolding, but by the kind-hearted deception and physical labor provided by a cook named Olga. For board exams, this chapter is crucial as it tests students' understanding of empathy, moral values, and character development through direct short-answer questions and long-form analytical queries.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Deception for Good
Skvortsov initially catches Lushkoff lying about being a schoolteacher and student, leading him to offer real work instead of charity.
Olga's Cruel Kindness
Olga, the cook, verbally abuses Lushkoff and cries for him, yet secretly chops all the wood for him so he can earn his wages without physical strain.
Transformation of Character
True change comes in Lushkoff not because of Skvortsov's preaching, but due to Olga's compassion, which touches his soul and shatters his drinking habit.
Dignity of Labor
The story emphasizes that honest work, even when forced initially, instills self-respect and changes a person's outlook on life.
Notary Public Career
Years later, Lushkoff meets Skvortsov at a theatre, revealing he is now a well-earning notary public earning thirty-droski a month.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the BSE Odisha Class 9 English examination, this supplementary chapter typically carries around 3 to 5 marks. Questions usually include short-answer questions about the plot, character sketches of Lushkoff or Olga, and long-answer questions testing the central theme of transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was actually responsible for Lushkoff's transformation?
Although Skvortsov gave him work, it was Olga's pity, tears, and secret wood-chopping that deeply touched Lushkoff's heart and transformed him.
What was Lushkoff's profession before he became a beggar?
Lushkoff was a Russian village schoolteacher who lost his position due to intrigues and turned to drinking.
Why did Lushkoff stop chopping wood for Skvortsov?
Lushkoff stopped chopping wood because Skvortsov shifted his house and hired him to pack and haul furniture instead.
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