Class 9 English - RAJASTHAN
Supplementary: The Beggar
Supplementary chapter 'The Beggar' by Anton Chekhov, prescribed for Class 9 Rajasthan (RBSE) students, tells the inspiring story of a lazy, alcoholic beggar named Lushkoff. The narrative explores the themes of transformation, empathy, and the power of kindness. Lushkoff is reformed not through harsh scolding, but through the silent, compassionate actions of a cook named Olga, alongside the strict guidance of an advocate named Sergei. This chapter is vital for board exams as it tests reading comprehension, character analysis, and the ability to extract moral values from a story, making it a frequent source of short and long answer questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Lushkoff's Transformation
The journey of the protagonist from a helpless, lying beggar to a respectable notary public due to forced physical labor and emotional support.
Role of Olga
Sergei's cook who outwardly scolded and wept for Lushkoff, but her genuine internal sympathy and hidden kindness actually inspired his inner change.
Sergei's Contribution
The advocate who gave Lushkoff odd jobs to break his habit of begging, though he initially believed Sergei's cook did all the physical work.
Theme of Empathy vs. Harshness
The story highlights that genuine behavioral reform comes from compassion and emotional impact rather than mere reprimand or punishment.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Rajasthan (RBSE) Class 9 English exams, this chapter typically carries around 3 to 5 marks. Questions frequently include short-answer type questions focusing on character traits of Sergei, Olga, or Lushkoff, and long-answer questions discussing the central theme or the turning point in Lushkoff's life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was actually responsible for Lushkoff's transformation?
While Sergei gave him work, it was actually Olga's compassion, tears, and harsh-sounding words that deeply moved Lushkoff's heart and changed his life.
Why did Lushkoff lie about being a school teacher and a student?
He lied to arouse more pity and sympathy from people so they would easily give him alms, as his alcoholism had ruined his actual career.
What was the first job that Sergei gave to Lushkoff?
Sergei first hired Lushkoff to chop wood in his yard, and later gave him other odd jobs like shoveling snow and moving furniture.
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