ANSWERS

1. Bonku Babu’s Friend (Satyajit Ray)

Reference 1:

"Bonku Babu was not frightened. But he was injured. For three days, his neck ached. Worst of all - his new kurta was torn and it had black stains all over."

a) Who played this prank on Bonku Babu?

The villagers, particularly his colleagues at the club, played the prank on him by pulling his chair from behind and humiliating him.

b) How does this incident reflect the way Bonku Babu was treated in the village?

This incident shows that Bonku Babu was ridiculed and not taken seriously by the people around him. He was constantly made fun of and subjected to humiliation.

c) What does this reveal about Bonku Babu’s character?

It reveals that Bonku Babu is a timid, submissive man who endures humiliation without standing up for himself.

d) How does this event foreshadow his transformation later in the story?

It serves as a catalyst for his change, as his encounter with Ang later makes him realize his self-worth.

e) What themes are highlighted through this incident?

This incident highlights the themes of bullying, humiliation, and the journey of self-discovery. It shows how a person who has been constantly ridiculed can find inner strength and transform his life. Bonku Babu's suffering in the beginning of the story makes his eventual confidence and courage even more significant.

Reference 2:

"Suppose someone from a different planet came here?"

a) Who makes this statement, and in what context?

Bonku Babu makes this statement while discussing space and aliens with the villagers, who mock him for his imagination.

b) How do the others react to this idea?

They laugh at him and ridicule him for having such an absurd thought.

c) What does this suggest about Bonku Babu’s imagination and curiosity?

It shows that Bonku Babu is intellectually curious and open-minded about scientific possibilities.

d) How does this question connect to the theme of science and exploration?

The question reflects the broader theme of scientific curiosity and the endless possibilities of the universe.

e) How does Bonku Babu’s encounter with Ang answer this question later?

Bonku Babu’s meeting with Ang proves that his thoughts about extraterrestrial life were not foolish but rather insightful. The very idea that was once ridiculed becomes a reality, reinforcing the theme that knowledge and imagination should not be limited by society's mockery. It also symbolizes how open-mindedness leads to new discoveries and personal growth.

Reference 3:

"I am Ang, from the planet Craneus. A far superior being than man."

a) How does Ang prove that he is superior to Bonku Babu?

Ang demonstrates advanced technological and intellectual abilities beyond human comprehension.

b) What is the significance of Bonku Babu meeting an alien?

It validates his curiosity about extraterrestrial life and opens up a new perspective for him.

c) How does this encounter affect Bonku Babu’s self-perception?

He realizes that he is not insignificant and that there is much more to life than the ridicule he faces.

d) What does Ang show Bonku Babu about the universe?

Ang shows him a vision of the vast and limitless cosmos, expanding his understanding beyond his small village.

e) How does this moment contribute to Bonku Babu’s transformation?

This moment serves as a turning point in Bonku Babu’s life. For the first time, he realizes that the world is much bigger than the small-minded people who mock him. It gives him the confidence to rise above the ridicule and embrace his own worth. This encounter marks the beginning of his transition from a timid, ridiculed man to someone who finds strength in knowledge and self-respect.

Reference 4:

"I have great pleasure in telling you that this is the last time you will see me at your meetings."

a) Why does Bonku Babu make this bold declaration?

He has gained confidence after his encounter with Ang and refuses to tolerate humiliation anymore.

b) How does this moment contrast with his earlier behaviour?

Previously, he endured ridicule silently, but now he asserts himself with dignity.

c) What changes in Bonku Babu’s personality are evident here?

He has developed self-respect and the courage to walk away from toxic environments.

d) How do the other villagers react to his statement?

They are shocked and perhaps even confused by his newfound assertiveness.

e) What message does this moment convey about self-respect and standing up for oneself?

This moment emphasizes that self-respect is earned by refusing to accept humiliation. Bonku Babu’s growth shows that one does not need the approval of others to find happiness. By walking away from people who never valued him, he asserts his newfound confidence. This is a strong message about personal growth and choosing dignity over social acceptance.

Reference 5:

"Bonku Babu realized that he was no longer walking. With a spring in every step, he was actually dancing."

a) What has caused this sudden change in Bonku Babu?

His experience with Ang has filled him with a new sense of confidence and happiness.

b) What does the act of dancing symbolize in this context?

It symbolizes his liberation from self-doubt and social ridicule.

c) How does this mark the climax of Bonku Babu’s transformation?

It signifies the ultimate moment of joy and self-acceptance.

d) What lesson can be learned from his journey?

That one should never let society’s opinions define their self-worth.

e) How does this ending reflect the story’s overall theme?

The ending beautifully captures the theme of transformation and self-discovery. Bonku Babu’s journey from a timid, ridiculed man to a confident individual is symbolized through his dance. His spring in every step shows that he has let go of his past fears and embraced a newfound joy. This moment reinforces the idea that true happiness comes from within and that once one recognizes their worth, no amount of ridicule can diminish it.

ANSWERS

2. Oliver Asks for More (Charles Dickens)

Reference 1:

"Please, sir," he said, "I want some more."

a) Who is speaking, and to whom?

Oliver Twist is speaking to the master of the workhouse after finishing his meal.

b) Why does the speaker make this request?

Oliver is extremely hungry as the children in the workhouse are given insufficient food.

c) How does the listener react to this request?

The master is shocked and outraged. The request is seen as an act of rebellion.

d) What does this moment reveal about the conditions in the workhouse?

It highlights the extreme neglect and mistreatment of orphans, who are barely given enough food to survive.

e) How does this moment set the tone for Oliver’s struggles?This moment serves as a crucial turning point in Oliver’s life and the novel’s overall tone. It portrays the immense cruelty and neglect experienced by children in workhouses, emphasizing the rigid and unjust societal structures of Victorian England. Oliver’s simple, innocent request is met with hostility and horror, highlighting how deeply ingrained the idea of suffering and deprivation is within the workhouse system. This moment foreshadows the challenges Oliver will continue to face throughout the novel, including mistreatment, exploitation, and the struggle for survival. Dickens uses this scene to evoke deep sympathy in the reader and to critique the harshness of institutions that were supposed to protect the poor but instead perpetuated their misery.

Reference 2:

"The master was a fat, healthy man, but he went very pale."

a) Who is the master being referred to?

The master is the workhouse overseer who distributes food to the children.

b) Why does he go pale upon hearing Oliver’s request?

He is utterly shocked because no child had ever dared to ask for more food before.

c) What does this reaction suggest about the power dynamics in the workhouse?

It shows that the workhouse operates on strict control and fear, where children are expected to be submissive and grateful for even inadequate provisions.

d) How does this reflect the hypocrisy of those in charge?

The master himself is well-fed and healthy, yet he denies starving children even a little extra food.

e) How does this moment reinforce the theme of social injustice?

This moment highlights the stark contrast between the privileged and the impoverished. The master, who is well-fed and comfortable, reacts with horror to a starving child’s simple plea for more food. His reaction underscores the indifference of those in power toward the suffering of the poor. Dickens uses this moment to expose the hypocrisy of the workhouse system, where the caretakers, who were supposed to ensure the well-being of orphans, lived in comfort while the children starved. This incident is a powerful commentary on the widespread social injustice of the time, demonstrating how wealth and power were concentrated in the hands of the few, while the most vulnerable members of society suffered in silence. Dickens masterfully evokes outrage in the reader, compelling them to recognize the need for reform.

Reference 3:

"He asked for more?" Mr. Bumble cried. "I cannot believe it!"

a) Who is Mr. Bumble, and why is he shocked?

Mr. Bumble is the parish beadle, responsible for overseeing the workhouse. He is shocked because Oliver’s request challenges the oppressive system.

b) What does this tell us about the workhouse’s treatment of children?

Children were expected to endure starvation and suffering silently, without questioning authority.

c) How does Dickens use Mr. Bumble’s reaction to criticize society?

Dickens satirizes the hypocrisy and cruelty of the poor laws that dehumanized and punished the needy instead of helping them.

d) How does this scene contribute to the novel’s theme of poverty and oppression?

It demonstrates how institutions treat the poor with neglect and harshness, rather than offering support and care.

e) What happens to Oliver after this incident?

Oliver’s request for more food marks him as a troublemaker in the eyes of the workhouse authorities. He is publicly shamed and labeled as ungrateful, despite his extreme hunger. As a result, the workhouse officials decide to get rid of him by offering him as an apprentice to a tradesman. This event sets Oliver on a path of further suffering and hardship. He is apprenticed to an undertaker, where he continues to endure mistreatment and abuse. Eventually, Oliver’s situation becomes so unbearable that he decides to escape to London, where he falls into the hands of criminals. This moment is pivotal in the novel because it illustrates how orphans and the poor were treated as burdens rather than human beings deserving of compassion. Dickens uses Oliver’s fate to highlight the failures of the social system, reinforcing the idea that poverty was not just an economic issue but also a moral failing of society.

Reference 4:

"Oliver was taken away and shut in a dark room."

a) Why is Oliver locked away?

Oliver is locked away as punishment for daring to ask for more food. The workhouse authorities see this as an act of defiance and decide to make an example of him.

b) What does this punishment reveal about the workhouse system?

It reveals the extreme cruelty and lack of compassion in the workhouse system. Instead of caring for the orphans, the authorities treat them with harsh discipline, punishing them for even the smallest acts of self-advocacy.

c) How does this moment highlight the cruelty Oliver faces?

Oliver is a helpless child, and instead of receiving care and nourishment, he is subjected to solitary confinement. This demonstrates the inhumane treatment that orphans endured under the Victorian Poor Law system.

d) How does Oliver’s resilience show through in this situation?

Despite his suffering, Oliver does not lose hope. His ability to endure such mistreatment and continue seeking a better life shows his inner strength and determination.

e) How does Dickens use this to appeal to readers’ emotions?

Dickens employs vivid imagery and emotional depth to make Oliver’s suffering feel immediate and poignant. The idea of a small, hungry, and helpless child being locked in a dark room simply asking for food evokes a strong sense of injustice. Dickens appeals to the readers’ sense of morality and compassion, forcing them to acknowledge the cruelty of institutions that were meant to provide shelter and care for the needy. This moment is particularly powerful because it portrays Oliver as completely vulnerable—alone, afraid, and without any control over his fate. The dark room symbolizes not only his physical imprisonment but also the greater oppression of the poor in Victorian England. By eliciting such strong emotions, Dickens strengthens his critique of social inequalities and urges readers to reflect on the need for systemic change.

Reference 5:

"The notice on the workhouse gate offered a reward for anyone willing to take Oliver."

a) What was the reward being offered?

The workhouse authorities offered a small sum of money to anyone willing to take Oliver as an apprentice, effectively selling him off to the highest bidder.

b) Why did the workhouse authorities want to get rid of Oliver?

They saw Oliver as a troublemaker for having asked for more food. Rather than dealing with him, they sought to dispose of him as quickly as possible, reducing their responsibility.

c) What does this tell us about how orphans were treated in Victorian society?

This incident shows that orphans were treated as burdens rather than children in need of care. They were often given away to anyone who would take them, without concern for their well-being or safety.

d) How does this event lead to the next stage in Oliver’s journey?

Oliver is eventually apprenticed to a cruel undertaker, where he continues to face mistreatment. His suffering in this role leads him to make the brave decision to run away to London, setting the stage for the next phase of his life.

e) How does Dickens use irony in this situation?

The irony in this situation lies in the fact that the workhouse, an institution meant to provide care for orphans, is treating Oliver as if he is an unwanted object to be disposed of rather than a child in need of love and support. Instead of acknowledging their failure in providing for him, the authorities offer a small monetary reward to pass the responsibility onto someone else. The entire concept of “offering a reward” for taking a child highlights the dehumanization of orphans during this era. Furthermore, the workhouse officials act as if they are doing society a favor by getting rid of Oliver, when in reality, they are simply washing their hands of their duty. Dickens uses this irony to expose the hypocrisy and moral decay of institutions that were supposed to aid the poor but instead exploited and abandoned them. This moment reinforces the novel’s overarching theme of social injustice and emphasizes the need for compassion and reform.

ANSWERS

3. The Boy Who Broke the Bank (Ruskin Bond)

Reference 1:

"Nathu swept the steps with great energy. He was annoyed."

a) Why is Nathu annoyed?

Nathu is annoyed because he has not received his salary on time. He is frustrated with the bank’s delay in paying him, as he relies on his wages to meet his daily needs.

b) What does this tell us about his character?

It shows that Nathu is hardworking but also impatient when it comes to his earnings. He values his work but expects fairness in return.

c) How does his annoyance lead to the main conflict of the story?

His frustration leads him to complain about the bank’s inefficiency, which is overheard and misunderstood by others, eventually leading to a rumor about the bank’s collapse.

d) How does this moment foreshadow the chaos that follows?

Nathu’s irritation and complaints set the stage for the misunderstanding that spirals out of control, leading to a bank run.

e) How does this reflect themes of misunderstanding and rumours?

This moment illustrates how a small complaint can snowball into a major crisis when misinterpreted. It highlights the dangers of misinformation and how quickly rumors can spread in a society that thrives on gossip and speculation.

Reference 2:

"The bank is going to collapse!"

a) Who spreads this rumour, and how does it start?

A local washerman overhears Nathu complaining about his unpaid wages and assumes that the bank is in financial trouble. He then tells others, spreading the rumor.

b) How does this misunderstanding escalate so quickly?

The news spreads like wildfire because people tend to believe and exaggerate negative news. Fear and panic drive them to withdraw their money, making the situation worse.

c) What does this reveal about human nature and fear?

It shows that people are quick to react emotionally rather than rationally. They often believe the worst without verifying the facts.

d) How does Ruskin Bond use humour in this situation?

Bond presents the escalating panic in an exaggerated and almost absurd manner. The speed at which the rumor spreads and the blind fear of the people make the situation humorous.

e) What lesson does this teach about misinformation?

The story teaches that misinformation can have real consequences. A simple misunderstanding can lead to widespread panic and disruption if not checked. It warns against believing everything we hear without verifying the facts first.

Reference 3:

"People rushed to withdraw their money."

a) Why do people suddenly panic?

People panic because they believe the rumor that the bank is failing. They fear losing their savings and want to secure their money before it’s too late.

b) How does their reaction reflect herd mentality?

Instead of analyzing the situation rationally, people blindly follow what others are doing. They assume that if others are withdrawing money, they should too.

c) How does the bank’s actual financial state contrast with people’s fears?

In reality, the bank is not collapsing at all. The panic is entirely based on an unfounded rumor rather than any real financial issue.

d) How does this event impact the characters in the town?

The town is thrown into chaos. Bank employees are overwhelmed, customers are agitated, and business in the town comes to a halt.

e) What social criticism is Ruskin Bond making here?

Bond is criticizing how easily people can be misled by fear and misinformation. He highlights the flaws in human nature—how people often act irrationally, blindly follow the majority, and contribute to their own problems by spreading panic.

Reference 4:

"Poor Nathu had no idea what he had started."

a) How did Nathu unintentionally create chaos?

Nathu’s casual complaint about not receiving his wages was misinterpreted and exaggerated, leading to a bank run.

b) What does this reveal about the power of words?

It shows that words, even when spoken casually, can have far-reaching consequences. Miscommunication can lead to serious misunderstandings.

c) How does this irony add humour to the story?

The irony lies in the fact that Nathu, an ordinary sweeper, unknowingly causes widespread panic in the town. His simple frustration leads to an overblown crisis.

d) What does this suggest about the way rumours spread?

It shows that rumors spread rapidly and that people often accept and pass along information without verifying its accuracy.

e) How does the ending reinforce the story’s theme?

The ending reinforces the idea that misinformation can cause unnecessary panic and chaos. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of verifying facts before reacting. It also highlights how easily a simple event can be misinterpreted and turned into a crisis by mass hysteria.

Reference 5:

"The bank had not actually collapsed."

a) What is the reality of the bank’s situation?

The bank was financially stable all along. The entire panic was based on a misunderstanding and not on any real financial crisis.

b) How does this contrast with the villagers' reaction?

While the villagers believed the bank was collapsing and rushed to withdraw their money, the truth was that there was never any issue with the bank’s financial standing.

c) What does this tell us about how people respond to fear?

People often react impulsively to fear without questioning its validity. They make irrational decisions when they feel threatened, even when there is no real danger.

d) How does the misunderstanding get resolved?

Once the truth is revealed, the panic subsides. However, the damage has already been done, and the story ends on a humorous yet critical note about human gullibility.

e) What message does the story ultimately convey?

The story conveys a strong message about the dangers of misinformation and the consequences of mass hysteria. It reminds readers that rumors can escalate quickly, leading to unnecessary fear and chaos. Bond uses humor and satire to highlight how people often react to situations without thinking critically. The story serves as a lesson on the importance of verifying facts and not blindly following the crowd.

ANSWERS

4. The Home-Coming (Rabindranath Tagore)

Reference 1:

"Phatik always got into trouble."

a) What kind of trouble did Phatik get into?

Phatik was a mischievous and restless boy who often found himself in trouble due to his adventurous nature. He frequently led his friends into playful but reckless activities, such as pushing a log into the river, which caused problems with other villagers.

b) How does this statement set the tone for Phatik’s character?

This statement establishes Phatik as a free-spirited and impulsive boy who enjoys mischief but does not always consider the consequences of his actions.

c) How does this foreshadow the events that follow in the story?

Phatik’s troublemaking foreshadows the challenges he will face when he moves to his uncle’s house, where his energetic nature is not accepted, leading to his suffering and eventual decline.

d) How does Phatik’s behaviour contrast with his new environment?

In his village, Phatik’s energy and mischief were tolerated as part of childhood. However, in his uncle’s strict household, his behavior is seen as disruptive, and he struggles to fit in.

e) What does this reveal about childhood curiosity and recklessness?

Phatik’s character represents the curiosity and impulsiveness of childhood, which, while natural, can lead to unintended consequences. His story highlights the importance of understanding and nurturing a child’s spirit rather than suppressing it.

Reference 2:

"Mother, have you forgotten me?"

a) Who says this, and under what circumstances?

Phatik says this in a moment of extreme distress when he is gravely ill and longing for his mother’s love.

b) What does this statement reveal about Phatik’s emotional state?

Phatik feels abandoned, unloved, and desperate for affection. His time away from home has made him realize how much he needed his mother’s presence.

c) How has his relationship with his mother changed throughout the story?

Initially, Phatik’s mother was frustrated with his mischief, but after his departure, she regrets sending him away. Their bond, though strained earlier, is now deeply emotional as Phatik longs for her love in his final moments.

d) How does this moment serve as the emotional climax of the story?

This is the most heartrending moment in the story, where Phatik’s physical suffering is matched by his deep emotional pain. His plea to his mother signifies his ultimate longing for home and comfort.

e) What is the significance of this line in relation to the theme of home and belonging?Phatik’s plea highlights the central theme of the story—home is not just a place but an emotional refuge. His suffering in a foreign environment makes him realize the irreplaceable warmth of his mother’s love, reinforcing the idea that true belonging lies in familial affection and understanding.

Reference 3:

"Phatik burst into tears. ‘I don’t want to stay here,’ he sobbed. ‘I want to go home.’"

a) Why does Phatik cry, and what does this tell us about his experience in his new home?Phatik cries because he feels unwanted and neglected in his uncle’s house. He is treated harshly and longs for the familiarity of his village and his mother’s presence.

b) How does this moment contrast with his initial excitement about leaving?

At first, Phatik was eager to leave, thinking that living in the city would be a grand adventure. However, the cold and strict atmosphere of his uncle’s house makes him realize how much he misses his home.

c) What does this show about Phatik’s realization of the meaning of ‘home’?

Phatik realizes that home is not just a physical space but where one is loved and understood. His longing to return shows his emotional growth and deeper appreciation of his mother’s love.

d) How does his uncle respond to his distress?

Phatik’s uncle remains largely indifferent to his pain. Instead of comforting him, he sees Phatik as a burden and fails to recognize his emotional suffering.

e) How does this moment reinforce the theme of loneliness and longing?

Phatik’s tears highlight his intense loneliness in an unfamiliar and unkind environment. His longing to go home represents the deep human need for love and belonging. His suffering emphasizes how neglect and emotional detachment can break a child’s spirit.

Reference 4:

"Phatik’s patience was exhausted. He rose from his bed, with a fevered body, and walked out of the house."

a) What has led to Phatik’s frustration and exhaustion?

Phatik has endured constant neglect, strict discipline, and a lack of affection in his uncle’s house. He is also physically ill and emotionally drained, leading to his breaking point.

b) What does this moment signify in terms of Phatik’s declining health?

This moment signifies that Phatik’s health is deteriorating rapidly. His physical weakness, coupled with emotional despair, leads him to wander outside despite his fever.

c) How does this action reflect his emotional and physical suffering?

Phatik’s decision to leave despite his condition shows how desperate he is to escape. His suffering has reached an unbearable level, making him act irrationally in search of relief.

d) What does his illness symbolize in the broader context of the story?

Phatik’s illness symbolizes the emotional toll of neglect and lack of love. His declining health mirrors his fading spirit, emphasizing how emotional pain can manifest physically.

e) How does this moment foreshadow the tragic ending of the story?

This moment signals that Phatik’s fate is sealed. His illness and exhaustion indicate that he will not recover, preparing the reader for the heart-wrenching conclusion where he succumbs to his suffering.

Reference 5:

"The mother sat by the bed, and the tears streamed from her eyes."

a) Why is Phatik’s mother crying at this moment?

Phatik’s mother is crying because she realizes, too late, how much her son suffered in her absence. She is overwhelmed with grief and regret.

b) How does this contrast with her behaviour earlier in the story?

Earlier, she was impatient and frustrated with Phatik’s mischief. Now, she is devastated by his condition and filled with remorse for sending him away.

c) What realization does Phatik’s mother come to in this moment?

She realizes that, despite his mischief, Phatik needed love and understanding. Her decision to send him away contributed to his suffering, and she now regrets it deeply.

d) How does this moment serve as the story’s resolution?

The story ends with Phatik’s mother grieving over his loss, bringing the themes of love, regret, and belonging to their tragic conclusion.

e) What message does this final scene convey about family, love, and regret?

The final scene conveys the painful reality that love should not be realized too late. It highlights the importance of nurturing and understanding children instead of punishing their spirited nature. The mother’s tears symbolize the deep regret that comes when we fail to appreciate those we love until they are gone.

ANSWERS

5. The Model Millionaire (Oscar Wilde)

Reference 1:

"Unless one is wealthy, there is no use in being a charming fellow. Romance is the privilege of the rich, not the profession of the unemployed."

a) Who is the speaker, and in what context is this statement made?

The speaker is the narrator, referring to Hughie Erskine’s unfortunate financial situation. This statement is made in the context of Hughie’s struggles to marry his beloved Laura Merton, whose father insists that she must marry a wealthy man.

b) What does this reveal about the speaker's view on wealth and romance?

The speaker suggests that in society, romance is often tied to wealth. The statement implies that without money, charm alone is insufficient to secure a romantic future.

c) How does this statement reflect the theme of class differences in the story?

It highlights the rigid social structure where financial status determines one’s opportunities, particularly in marriage.

d) How does this idea contrast with the later events in the story?

Despite Hughie’s lack of wealth, Baron Hausberg’s generosity changes his fate, proving that kindness and character can sometimes triumph over material wealth.

e) What is Oscar Wilde trying to critique through this statement?

Wilde critiques the materialistic nature of Victorian society, where love and personal virtues are overshadowed by financial status. He highlights how societal norms often prioritize wealth over genuine human qualities. This statement serves as a satire of the belief that only the rich deserve happiness, questioning whether true romance should depend on financial stability. Through the story’s resolution, Wilde suggests that generosity and goodwill can sometimes break societal constraints, offering hope beyond class barriers.

Reference 2:

"Poor old beggar! He looks miserable enough."

a) Who says this, and to whom?Hughie Erskine says this to his friend, Alan Trevor, while observing the beggar who is posing for a painting.

b) Who is the "poor old beggar" being referred to?

The beggar is actually Baron Hausberg, a wealthy man who is posing as a model for Alan Trevor’s painting.

c) Why does the speaker feel pity for him?

Hughie assumes that the beggar is genuinely poor and struggling, based on his tattered clothes and worn-out appearance.

d) What irony is present in this statement?

The irony is that the “poor beggar” is, in reality, a millionaire, making Hughie’s pity both misplaced and humorous.

e) How does this moment contribute to the story’s overall plot?

This moment sets up the central misunderstanding of the story. Hughie’s kindness in giving money to the ‘beggar’ leads to an unexpected twist, where Baron Hausberg rewards him generously. This incident highlights the theme of mistaken appearances and reinforces Wilde’s critique of judging people by their outward looks. It also serves as the catalyst for Hughie’s unexpected fortune, leading to the resolution of his romantic struggles.

Reference 3:

"You told that old beggar all my private affairs?"

a) Who says this, and why is the speaker surprised?

Hughie says this to Alan Trevor after learning that the beggar was actually Baron Hausberg. He is shocked that his personal struggles were revealed to a rich man.

b) What does this reveal about the speaker’s assumptions about the beggar?

Hughie assumed the beggar was an ordinary poor man and would not have any influence or interest in his affairs.

c) How does this moment add to the humour in the story?

Hughie’s reaction is comical because he realizes too late that he had unknowingly interacted with a millionaire, treating him like a common beggar.

d) How does this contribute to the theme of appearances vs. reality?

It reinforces the idea that people are often not what they seem. Hughie learns that wealth and status are not always displayed outwardly.

e) How does this misunderstanding impact the later events of the story?

This misunderstanding leads to an unexpected positive outcome for Hughie. Baron Hausberg, amused by Hughie’s generosity, decides to reward him with a financial gift, enabling him to marry Laura. This moment shows how an act of kindness can lead to unforeseen fortune, reinforcing Wilde’s message that generosity and goodness can be more valuable than wealth.

Reference 4:

"Dear Hughie, I shall give you a wedding present."

a) Who says this, and why?

Baron Hausberg says this to Hughie after learning about his financial struggles and engagement.

b) What is the significance of this statement in the story?

It marks the turning point where Hughie’s financial troubles are resolved through an act of generosity.

c) How does this act of generosity contrast with Hughie’s earlier assumptions?

Hughie believed wealth was inaccessible to him, yet a rich man’s kindness unexpectedly changes his fate.

d) What does this reveal about Baron Hausberg’s true character?

It shows that he is not only wealthy but also generous and kind-hearted, unlike the stereotypical rich elite.

e) How does this moment serve as the resolution of the story?

This moment provides a satisfying and unexpected resolution to Hughie’s struggles. Wilde challenges the notion that wealth automatically makes people selfish. Instead, Baron Hausberg’s generosity rewards Hughie’s good nature, proving that kindness can be repaid in unexpected ways. It also serves as a critique of rigid social class structures, showing that true generosity transcends financial divisions and that kindness can sometimes be met with great rewards.

Reference 5:

"Millionaire models are rare enough, but model millionaires are rarer still."

a) What is the meaning of this statement?

The statement plays on the idea that while wealthy people posing as models are rare, truly generous millionaires are even rarer.

b) How does this statement reflect the central theme of the story?

It emphasizes the contrast between wealth and generosity, questioning whether the rich often show true kindness.

c) How does Baron Hausberg prove to be a "model millionaire"?

He not only plays the role of a beggar model but also demonstrates moral generosity by helping Hughie.

d) What lesson does Hughie Erskine learn from this experience?

He learns that wealth and generosity are not always separate and that true kindness can come from unexpected places.

e) How does this final line encapsulate Wilde’s social critique?

Wilde criticizes the social tendency to judge people by their appearance and status rather than their character. He suggests that while many aspire to be wealthy, few use their wealth in meaningful, generous ways. This line serves as a witty conclusion, reinforcing the idea that true nobility lies not in wealth but in one’s actions and kindness toward others.