A THIEF’S STORY

 

A THIEF’S STORY

Introduction

The Thief's Story, written by Ruskin Bond, is an interesting and thought-provoking story about trust, kindness, and transformation. It tells the story of Hari Singh, a young thief, who meets Anil, a kind and simple writer. Hari plans to rob Anil, but Anil’s trust and generosity gradually change his heart. The story highlights how love, education, and compassion can reform a person and guide them towards the right path. It teaches us that everyone deserves a second chance in life.

Character Sketch of Anil

Anil is a kind, simple, and trusting young man. He lives a modest life and earns irregularly as a writer. Despite his limited means, he shows great generosity and compassion.

One of his most striking qualities is his trusting nature. Anil is also supportive and encouraging. He teaches Hari how to cook, write, and promises to educate him. Another important trait is his forgiving attitude. When Hari steals money and later returns, Anil does not openly accuse or punish him. Instead, he silently forgives him and continues to treat him kindly.

Character Sketch of Hari Singh

Hari Singh is a young boy of about 15 years who survives by stealing. He is clever, observant, and experienced in deceiving people. However, he is not completely immoral. He has a conscience. After stealing money from Anil, he feels restless and guilty.  His inner conflict shows that he is capable of distinguishing between right and wrong.

Themes

Redemption and Change: This is the central theme of the story. In the story, Hari Singh is a thief, but he is not beyond reform. After stealing, he feels guilt and decides to return the money. The story suggests that people can change if given the right opportunity and guidance.

Trust and Betrayal: The story shows how trust is built and broken. Anil trusts Hari Singh despite knowing he might be dishonest. Hari betrays that trust by stealing money.

Education as a Tool for Growth: Anil teaches Hari how to write and promises to educate him. Hari realizes that education can help him earn honestly. The story emphasizes that education can change a person’s life direction.

Hope and Second Chances: Anil gives Hari another chance without openly accusing him. Hari returns, hoping for a better future. The story promotes the idea that everyone deserves a second chance.

Additional Questions

Short Answer Type Questions (about 60 words)

(a) Why did Hari Singh approach Anil at the wrestling match?

(b) What made Hari Singh think that Anil was an easy target?

(c) Why did Hari Singh decide to steal Anil’s money?

(d) What stopped Hari Singh from running away with the stolen money?

(e) How did Hari Singh know that Anil had forgiven him?

(f) Why did Hari Singh return to Anil after stealing the money?

(g) How did Anil’s kindness help in changing Hari Singh?

(h) What role did education play in Hari Singh’s transformation?

B. Extract-Based Question

1. Read the extract carefully and answer the following questions:

“I hurried back to the room feeling very nervous, for it is much easier to steal something than to return it. I opened the door quietly, then stood in the doorway in clouded moonlight.”

(a)    Who is “I” in the above extract?

(b)   Where he came back from?

(c)    Why was he feeling nervous?

(d)   What does this line reveal about his state of mind?

(e)    Why did he return to the room?

 

 

2. Read the extract carefully and answer the following questions

“Anil had given me a key to the door, and I could come and go as I pleased. He trusted me completely.”

Who is the speaker in the extract?

Why had Anil given him the key?

What does this tell us about Anil’s character?

How did the speaker misuse Anil’s trust?

Which theme of the story is highlighted here?

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