The Thief's Story- Long Answer Questions

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The Thief's Story- Long Answer Questions

1. Is "The Thief's Story" a detailed exploration of human psychology?

Yes, "The Thief's Story" dives deep into understanding how people think. The story follows Hari Singh, a thief who starts working for Anil with the intention of robbing him. However, he grows fond of Anil due to his kindness. Despite planning to steal from Anil, Hari Singh's conscience stops him from leaving with the stolen money. Eventually, he decides to return the money to Anil. Through Hari Singh's inner conflict, Ruskin Bond shows how complex the human mind can be, full of conflicting thoughts and emotions.

2. Why did Hari Singh decide to return to Anil instead of boarding the express train? What values does this event highlight?

Hari Singh, a thief, stole money from Anil but then felt guilty about it. He realized that by stealing, he not only took from Anil but also deprived himself of opportunities, like education and a better future. Despite the temptation to run away, he couldn't ignore his conscience. He understood that staying with Anil meant learning important life skills and being cared for. Hari's choice to return reflects his practical and positive outlook on life. This incident emphasizes the power of love and understanding in changing someone for the better. Anil's kindness and Hari's conscience ultimately led to his transformation, teaching us the value of compassion and support in guiding others towards goodness.

3. Explain the idea that education is more valuable than money.

Education holds more importance than money in life. While money can buy us comfort and things we need, it can't give us knowledge or the ability to think critically. Education shapes our thoughts, skills, and helps us pursue our dreams effectively. It keeps us updated and opens doors to countless opportunities. Money can only go so far; it might buy a plan, but education teaches us how to execute it. Just like in "A Thief's Story" where Hari Singh chose education over money, we should realize that education is key to achieving our goals. It's a reminder that education empowers us to fulfill our aspirations.

4. Why didn't Anil report the thief to the police, and how is Anil different from most employers in this regard?

Anil didn't hand the thief over to the police because he saw that the thief, Hari Singh, regretted what he did and returned the stolen money. Anil believed in giving Hari Singh a chance to change for the better.

I don't believe many people today would act as Anil did. Most lack the patience and compassion needed to forgive someone who has wronged them. Nowadays, thieves are often seen as criminals regardless of whether they regret their actions. It's difficult to trust someone who has betrayed you, but if they genuinely repent, they deserve a second chance to regain trust.

5. How did Hari Singh feel about the opportunity to receive an education?

At first, Hari Singh thought that getting an education could help him in his criminal activities, like stealing using fake documents, and make him rich. However, after stealing from Anil, he had a change of heart. He realized that education was essential for real success and respect. He understood that while stealing was easy, it wasn't a path to true prosperity. He returned to Anil because he had nowhere else to go and realized that Anil was the only person who could help him become a respectable person through education.

6. Write a brief character-sketch of Hari Singh in the light of his honesty. Express your opinion also.

Hari Singh, a fifteen-year-old boy, was known for his cleverness and success as a thief. He carefully planned his thefts, often targeting unsuspecting victims by gaining their trust. After earning their confidence, he would steal from them and then change his identity to avoid getting caught. He was dishonest, lying and deceiving others for his own gain. Despite his skill in thievery, he lacked cooking abilities and often resorted to dishonest means to make a living.

However, towards the end of the story, there was a notable change in Hari Singh's behavior. He chose to return to Anil, the man he had robbed, and return the stolen money. This act showed that even someone with a troubled past could have a sense of honesty and goodness within them. In my opinion, Hari Singh's character teaches us that people can change for the better, no matter how dishonest or deceitful they may have been in the past.

7. Appraise the chief characteristics of Anil in about 100-150 words.

Anil is a kind-hearted and understanding man, aged twenty-five and unmarried. He earns irregularly by writing for magazines and enjoys celebrating with friends whenever he receives a cheque. Despite knowing that Hari Singh, a boy he hires, lied about his cooking skills, Anil still gives him a chance. He values education and teaches Hari Singh to write his name, promising further lessons. Anil is aware of Hari's theft but chooses not to involve the police, showing his forgiving nature. His generosity and kindness lead Hari Singh to return the stolen money. Anil rewards him with fifty rupees and promises regular payment, demonstrating his compassion and integrity. In essence, Anil exemplifies a true gentleman.

8. Love, human values and education can transform even a thief. Discuss.

The story illustrates how love, values, and education transform a thief. Hari Singh, driven by circumstances, stole from Anil. Despite Hari's deceit, Anil showed kindness, teaching him basic education. This instilled in Hari the value of education for respect and success. Realizing his mistake, Hari returned to Anil, understanding his importance. Anil, forgiving and compassionate, rewarded Hari with money and promised regular payment. In this act, love and education not only reformed Hari but also restored trust and hope. The narrative underscores how these elements possess the power to redeem even the most unlikely individuals.