The Third Level by Jack Finney

1. Background/Setting:
The story is set in Grand Central Station, New York, where the protagonist discovers a
mysterious 'third level' that seemingly transports him back to the year 1894. The modern
setting is juxtaposed with this historical element, creating a surreal backdrop.

2. Characters:
- Charley: A 31-year-old man who discovers the third level at Grand Central Station. He is
portrayed as an ordinary individual seeking escape from the pressures of modern life.

- Louisa: Charley's wife, who becomes worried about his obsession with the third level.

- Sam Weiner: Charley's psychiatrist friend who initially dismisses Charley's experiences as
wish fulfillment but eventually is found to have traveled to 1894 himself.

3. Themes:
- Escape: The third level represents an escape from the stress and anxieties of modern life.

- Reality vs. Fantasy: The story blurs the lines between what is real and what is imagined.

- Nostalgia: A longing for a simpler, more peaceful time in the past.

- Psychological Exploration: The story delves into the subconscious desires and mental
states of the characters.

4. Beginning:
Charley describes his strange discovery of a third level at Grand Central Station, which he
believes is a portal to the year 1894. He shares this with his psychiatrist friend, who
suggests it is a form of escapism.

5. Rising Action:
Charley recounts his experiences at the third level, detailing the old-fashioned setting and
the people dressed in 1890s attire. He tries to buy tickets to Galesburg, Illinois, but is
thwarted by the different currency.

6. Climax:
Charley discovers a letter from his friend Sam, who confirms the existence of the third level
and urges Charley and Louisa to join him in 1894.

7. Falling Action:
Charley attempts to find the third level again but fails. Despite this, he remains determined
and continues searching.
8. Anticlimax:
There is no clear anticlimax, but the story ends with an unresolved tension as Charley and
Louisa keep looking for the third level.

9. Questions and Answers:

Read and Find Out

1.What does the third level refer to?

Answer : The third level refers to the subway of the Grand Central Station that takes
passengers to Galesburg, Illinois. The third level on the station was a medium of escape for
Charley, the narrator from the harsh realities of modern life. It provided him a base where
he could interweave fantasy and reality

2.Would Charley ever go back to the ticket-counter on the third level to buy tickets to
Galesburg for himself and his wife?

Answer : No, Charley would never go back to the ticket-counter on the third level to buy
tickets to Galesburg for himself and his wife because third level was his imagination.

Reading with Insight

1. Do you think that the third level was a medium of escape for Charley? Why?

• - Yes, the third level was a medium of escape for Charley. He found solace in the idea of a
simpler and more peaceful past, away from the stress and uncertainties of modern life.

2. What do you infer from Sam’s letter to Charley?

• - Sam's letter to Charley confirms that the third level exists and that he has successfully
traveled back to 1894. It also implies that Sam found contentment and a new life there,
encouraging Charley and Louisa to join him.

3. ‘The modern world is full of insecurity, fear, war, worry and stress.’ What are the ways in
which we attempt to overcome them?

• - People cope with the stress of modern life in various ways, such as engaging in
hobbies, seeking therapy, spending time with loved ones, traveling, and sometimes
escaping into fantasies or nostalgia.

4. Do you see an intersection of time and space in the story?

• - Yes, the story interweaves time and space by presenting the third level as a portal that
connects the present-day Grand Central Station with the year 1894. This blending of
different eras creates a surreal experience for the characters.

5. Apparent illogicality sometimes turns out to be a futuristic projection? Discuss.

• - The concept of the third level, though seemingly illogical, can be seen as a futuristic
projection of human desires to escape reality and find peace in simpler times. It reflects
the timeless nature of human longing for a better, less complicated world.

6. Philately helps keep the past alive. Discuss other ways in which this is done. What do you
think of the human tendency to constantly move between the past, the present and the
future?

• - Besides philately, preserving history through antiques, historical sites, literature, and
storytelling helps keep the past alive. This tendency to move between different time
periods reflects a deep human desire to understand our roots, cherish memories, and
imagine future possibilities.

7.(Not important)

You have read ‘Adventure’ by Jayant Narlikar in Hornbill Class XI. Compare the
interweaving of fantasy and reality in the two stories.

• - Both 'The Third Level' and 'Adventure' blend fantasy and reality to explore the
characters' psychological states and desires. In 'The Third Level,' Charley's discovery of
the third level serves as a means to escape modern life's pressures, while in 'Adventure,'
the protagonist's journey through different timelines highlights the intersection of
historical events and personal experiences. Both stories use fantastical elements to
delve into deeper truths about human nature and our quest for meaning.
The Tiger King by Kalki
Notes

1. Background/Setting:
The story is set in the early 20th century in the princely state of Pratibandapuram. It is a
satirical narrative that highlights the absurdity of royal power and the consequences of
misusing it.

2. Characters:
- The Maharaja of Pratibandapuram (The Tiger King): A proud and arrogant ruler obsessed
with defying a prophecy by killing 100 tigers.

- The Chief Astrologer: Predicts the Maharaja’s death by a tiger, which sparks the king’s
obsession.

- The Dewan: The loyal minister who assists the Maharaja in his quest.

- British Officer: Represents colonial power, seeking a tiger skin and leading the Maharaja to
bribe him to retain hunting rights.

- Minor Characters: Include the Maharaja’s wife, child, and other court members.

3. Themes:
- The Absurdity of Power: The Maharaja’s obsession with tigers as a satire on the misuse of
power.

- Fate vs. Free Will: The story explores how fate is inevitable, despite attempts to change it.

- Colonialism: A critique of British influence on Indian royalty.

- Irony and Satire: The story is filled with irony, especially in how the prophecy is fulfilled.

4. Plot Structure:

4.1. Beginning:
The story begins with the prophecy of the Maharaja’s death by a tiger, leading him to decide
to kill 100 tigers to prove it wrong.

4.2. Rising Action:

The Maharaja kills 99 tigers over several years, becoming increasingly paranoid and
ruthless.
4.3. Climax:
The Maharaja shoots the 100th tiger, believing he has outwitted the prophecy, but the tiger
is not killed by his bullet.

4.4. Falling Action:

The Maharaja, thinking the prophecy has been defeated, buys a wooden tiger for his son,
which ultimately causes his death.

4.5. Anticlimax:
The story ends with the Maharaja dying from an infection caused by a splinter from the
wooden tiger, fulfilling the prophecy in an ironic twist.

Read and Find Out

1. Who is the Tiger King? Why does he get that name?

- The Tiger King is the Maharaja of Pratibandapuram Jilani Jung Jung Bahadur, named for his
obsession with killing tigers to defy a prophecy of his death.

2. What did the royal infant grow up to be?

- He grows up to be a determined and authoritarian ruler focused on killing 100 tigers to
escape his fate.

3. What will the Maharaja do to find the required number of tigers to kill?
- The Maharaja depletes the tiger population in his kingdom and marries a princess from a
tiger-rich state to continue his hunt.

4. How will the Maharaja prepare himself for the hundredth tiger which was
supposed to decide his fate?
- The Maharaja becomes anxious and takes extreme measures to find and kill the 100th
tiger, even arranging for a weak tiger to be presented to him.

5. What will now happen to the astrologer? Do you think the prophecy was
indisputably disproved?
- The prophecy is fulfilled in an ironic twist when the Maharaja dies from an infection
caused by a wooden tiger, proving it was not indisputably disproved.

Reading with Insight

1. The story is a satire on the conceit of those in power. How does the author employ
the literary device of dramatic irony in the story?
- The author uses dramatic irony by showing that while the Maharaja believes he can avoid
the prophecy, the readers know his fate is inevitable. His death by a wooden tiger highlights
the absurdity of his arrogance.
2. What is the author’s indirect comment on subjecting innocent animals to the
willfulness of human beings?
- The author criticizes the cruelty of humans, especially those in power, who kill innocent
animals for their selfish desires, as seen in the Maharaja’s tiger hunts.

3. How would you describe the behaviour of the Maharaja’s minions towards him? Do
you find them truly sincere towards him or are they driven by fear when they obey
him? Do we find a similarity in today’s political order?
- The minions obey the Maharaja out of fear, not sincerity. This mirrors today’s political
order, where fear often drives compliance rather than genuine loyalty.

4. Can you relate instances of game-hunting among the rich and the powerful in the
present times that illustrate the callousness of human beings towards wildlife?
- Trophy hunting by the wealthy today, despite conservation efforts, reflects the same
disregard for wildlife as the Maharaja’s obsession with killing tigers.

5. We need a new system for the age of ecology — a system which is embedded in the
care of all people and also in the care of the Earth and all life upon it. Discuss.
- A new system should prioritize sustainable living and the protection of all life. The story
highlights the dangers of neglecting these values, emphasizing the need for environmental
stewardship and ethical treatment of animals.
JOURNEY TO THE END OF THE EARTH BY TISHANI DOSHI
1. BACKGROUND/SETTING:

- The chapter is set during a scientific expedition to Antarctica aboard the Russian vessel
Akademik Shokalskiy. The setting highlights Antarctica’s remoteness and untouched beauty. It serves
as a critical place for understanding Earth’s climate history, with the narrator emphasizing its
importance in studying environmental changes and the future impacts of global warming.

2. CHARACTERS :

- Narrator (Tishani Doshi): A writer and poet, part of the Students on Ice program, who
experiences Antarctica firsthand and reflects deeply on the environmental issues facing the planet.

- Geoff Green: The leader of the Students on Ice program, an experienced explorer and educator
committed to raising awareness about the impact of climate change, especially among young
people.

- Minor Characters: Fellow students and researchers on the expedition, representing a diverse
group of young minds being exposed to the significance of Antarctica in the fight against climate
change.

3. THEMES :

- Environmental Conservation: The chapter stresses the need to protect Antarctica and other
fragile ecosystems from the harmful effects of human activities and climate change.

- Climate Change: It examines the role of Antarctica as a key site for understanding global climate
patterns and the serious consequences of rising temperatures.

- Human Connection with Nature: The narrator reflects on the intricate link between humans
and the natural world, highlighting our responsibility to preserve and respect the environment.

- Education and Awareness: The narrative showcases the power of education in shaping
environmental consciousness, particularly through programs like Students on Ice, which aim to
inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.

4. BEGINNING :

- The narrator begins with the long and challenging journey from India to Antarctica. As she steps
onto the icy continent, she is overwhelmed by its vast, desolate beauty. The harsh yet stunning
landscape instills a sense of awe and insignificance in the face of nature’s grandeur.

5. RISING ACTION:

- As the expedition progresses, the narrator and her group explore Antarctica’s glaciers, icebergs,
and unique wildlife, such as penguins and seals. Geoff Green explains the significance of Antarctica
in understanding global climate change, emphasizing its critical role as an indicator of the Earth’s
environmental health. The narrator begins to see firsthand how fragile and vital this ecosystem is.

6. CLIMAX:

- The realization hits the narrator when she understands the full extent of climate change’s impact
on Antarctica. The melting ice, the shifts in wildlife behavior, and the threats to this pristine
environment underscore the urgency of addressing climate change. This moment solidifies her
understanding of the critical need for global environmental conservation.

7. FALLING ACTION :

- Following this realization, the narrator reflects on the purpose of the Students on Ice program,
recognizing that exposing young people to these pressing environmental issues is essential for
fostering a sense of responsibility. She acknowledges the importance of raising awareness and
taking action to protect fragile ecosystems like Antarctica.

8. ANTICLIMAX :

- The chapter ends on a thoughtful note. While there is no traditional anticlimax, the narrator
leaves Antarctica with a deeper commitment to environmental advocacy, recognizing the
responsibility humans have to preserve the planet. She is inspired by her experience and carries
forward the message of environmental preservation.

READ AND FIND OUT

How do geological phenomena help us to know about the history of humankind?

Geological phenomena, such as tectonic plate movements, fossil records, and sediment layers,
provide insights into Earth’s history and human evolution. Tectonic shifts have shaped continents,
influencing early human migration, while fossils reveal the development of early human species. Ice
cores and sediments offer clues about past climates, showing how humans adapted to
environmental changes over time.

What are the indications for the future of humankind?

Indications for the future of humankind include rising global temperatures, melting polar ice, and
increasing sea levels due to climate change. These trends suggest challenges like extreme weather,
loss of biodiversity, and resource shortages. Addressing these issues requires global cooperation,
sustainable practices, and increased environmental awareness to ensure a stable and secure future.

READING WITH INSIGHT

1. ‘The world’s geological history is trapped in Antarctica.’ How is the study of this region
useful to us?
 - The study of Antarctica provides preserved records of Earth’s past climate, atmospheric
composition, and geological events, helping scientists understand historical climate patterns,
predict future changes, and assess the impacts of global warming.

2. What are Geoff Green’s reasons for including high school students in the Students on Ice
expedition?

- Geoff Green aims to raise climate change awareness and inspire young people by immersing
them in Antarctica, emphasizing the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems and taking
action against climate change.

3. ‘Take care of the small things and the big things will take care of themselves.’ What is the
relevance of this statement in the context of the Antarctic environment?

- In Antarctica, focusing on small actions like minimizing waste and following environmental
guidelines helps preserve its fragile ecosystem, contributing to better management of larger
environmental issues such as climate change impacts.

4. Why is Antarctica the place to go to, to understand the Earth’s present, past, and future?

- Antarctica offers detailed records of historical climate changes, atmospheric conditions, and
geological events, which help scientists track current climate trends, model future changes,
and assess the impacts of global warming.
The Enemy by Pearl S. Buck
1. BACKGROUND/SETTING:

- The story is set in Japan during World War II, specifically in the context of wartime tension and
conflict. It takes place in the home of a Japanese doctor, showcasing the impact of the war on
individuals and their personal conflicts.

2. CHARACTERS :

- Doctor Sadao Hoki: A skilled and ethical Japanese surgeon who is conflicted by his duty to both
his country and his personal morals.

- Hana Hoki: Doctor Sadao’s wife, who is supportive but also anxious about the implications of
harboring an enemy soldier.

- The American Soldier: An enemy combatant who is wounded and seeks refuge in Doctor
Sadao’s home.

- Servants: They play minor roles but contribute to the domestic atmosphere and tensions in the
story.

3. THEMES :

- Duty vs. Morality: The conflict between professional duty and personal ethics is central to the
story, especially in the context of wartime.

- Humanity in Conflict: The story explores the capacity for empathy and compassion even in
adversarial circumstances.

- Isolation and Loyalty: The theme of isolation is reflected in the character’s personal struggle
and loyalty to country versus moral responsibility.

4. BEGINNING :

- The story begins with Doctor Sadao Hoki, a respected surgeon, dealing with the aftermath of a
battle where he finds himself in a position where he must confront his own values and
responsibilities. His home and personal life are disrupted by the wartime tensions.

5. RISING ACTION:

- Doctor Sadao discovers a wounded American soldier and decides to help him despite the risk of
being accused of treason. This decision creates internal conflict and external pressures from his
surroundings and the wartime environment.

6. CLIMAX: - The climax occurs when Doctor Sadao performs surgery on the American soldier,
risking his own safety and reputation to save the life of the enemy. This act of compassion places
him at odds with societal expectations and personal fears.
7. FALLING ACTION :

- After the surgery, Doctor Sadao faces increasing tension and danger as the American soldier’s
presence becomes more problematic. The situation becomes increasingly precarious, and the
doctor must navigate the consequences of his actions.

8. ANTICLIMAX :

- The anticlimax is marked by the resolution of the soldier’s situation and the final decision by
Doctor Sadao. Ultimately, the soldier is able to escape, but the resolution of the conflict leaves
Doctor Sadao with lingering questions about his own choices and their ramifications.

READ AND FIND OUT

1. Who was Dr. Sadao?

- Dr. Sadao Hoki was a prominent Japanese surgeon known for his skill and professionalism. He
was a man of integrity, deeply committed to his medical practice and moral principles.

2. Where was his house?

- Dr. Sadao’s house was located in Japan during World War II. It was situated in a setting that was
influenced by the wartime atmosphere, reflecting both the personal and societal conflicts of the
period.

3. Will Dr. Sadao be arrested on the charge of harbouring an enemy?

- Initially, there is a significant risk that Dr. Sadao might be arrested for harboring an enemy
soldier, as it was considered an act of treason during the war. However, due to the influence and
protection offered by his connections, the anticipated arrest does not occur.

4. Will Hana help the wounded man and wash him herself?

- Yes, Hana, Dr. Sadao’s wife, does help the wounded American soldier. Despite her initial fear and
reluctance, she eventually assists in washing and caring for him, demonstrating her compassion and
support for her husband’s decision.

5. What will Dr. Sadao and his wife do with the man?

- Dr. Sadao and his wife decide to care for the wounded American soldier. Dr. Sadao performs
surgery on him and provides medical treatment, while Hana supports this decision by helping with
his care and recovery.

6. What will Dr. Sadao do to get rid of the man?

- To resolve the situation and protect himself and his family from potential repercussions, Dr.
Sadao arranges for the American soldier’s safe escape. He provides the soldier with a boat and
supplies, ensuring that he can leave without being captured.
7. Will Dr. Sadao be arrested on the charge of harbouring an enemy?

- As noted earlier, although there was a significant risk of arrest, Dr. Sadao is not arrested. His
actions are protected by his influential connections, and the soldier successfully escapes, avoiding
any direct legal consequences for Dr. Sadao.

READING WITH INSIGHT

1. There are moments in life when we have to make hard choices between our roles as
private individuals and as citizens with a sense of national loyalty. Discuss with
reference to the story you have just read.

Dr. Sadao must choose between his duty as a doctor to save lives and his national loyalty, which
condemns helping an enemy soldier. His decision to help reflects personal ethics over societal
expectations.

2. Dr. Sadao was compelled by his duty as a doctor to help the enemy soldier. What made
Hana, his wife, sympathetic to him in the face of open defiance from the domestic
staff?

Hana’s support came from her respect for Dr. Sadao and her empathy. Despite the domestic staff’s
resistance, she understood the moral importance of helping the soldier and chose to stand by her
husband.

3. How would you explain the reluctance of the soldier to leave the shelter of the
doctor’s home even when he knew he couldn’t stay there without risk to the doctor
and himself?

The soldier’s reluctance stemmed from gratitude and fear. He was dependent on the Hokis’ care
and faced uncertainty and danger if he left.

4. What explains the attitude of the General in the matter of the enemy soldier? Was it
human consideration, lack of national loyalty, dereliction of duty or simply self-
absorption?

The General’s attitude was largely self-absorbed. While there might be a hint of human
consideration, his primary concern was maintaining his own status and avoiding complications.

5. While hatred against a member of the enemy race is justifiable, especially during
wartime, what makes a human being rise above narrow prejudices?

Rising above prejudice often involves empathy, moral values, and recognizing shared humanity, as
seen in Dr. Sadao and Hana’s actions.

6. Do you think the doctor’s final solution to the problem was the best possible one in
the circumstances?
 Yes, arranging the soldier’s escape was a practical solution, balancing Dr. Sadao’s moral duty with
the need to protect his family.

7. Does the story remind you of ‘Birth’ by A. J. Cronin that you read in Snapshots last
year? What are the similarities?

Both stories explore ethical dilemmas faced by doctors, highlighting the struggle between
professional integrity and personal or societal pressures.

8. Is there any film you have seen or novel you have read with a similar theme?

Films like “The Last Emperor” and novels like “A Farewell to Arms” deal with personal and moral
dilemmas in times of conflict, similar to the themes in “The Enemy.”
“On The Face Of It” by Susan Hill

1. BACKGROUND /SETTING :

The story is set in a garden where two characters, Derry and Mr. Lamb, meet and converse.
The garden symbolizes a place of healing and introspection for both characters,
highlighting themes of loneliness and acceptance.

2. C HARACTERS :

Derry: A young boy with a burnt face, he is shy, self-conscious, and tends to isolate himself
from others due to his appearance. He is deeply affected by how society perceives him.

Mr. Lamb: An elderly man with a positive outlook on life, despite having a disability (an
artificial leg). He is kind and welcoming, trying to inspire Derry to see life differently.

Minor Characters: Brief mention of Derry’s mother, who is protective and wary of Derry’s
interactions with strangers.

3. THEMES :

Physical Appearance vs. Inner Beauty: The story explores how people are judged based
on their appearance and the emotional impact of societal perceptions.

Loneliness and Isolation: Both Derry and Mr. Lamb experience loneliness, but they cope
with it in different ways.

Acceptance and Self-Confidence: Mr. Lamb encourages Derry to embrace his uniqueness
and not let others’ judgments dictate his life.

4. BEGINNING :

The story begins with Derry entering Mr. Lamb’s garden. He is initially suspicious and
defensive, as he assumes Mr. Lamb would treat him like everyone else—judging him based
on his appearance.

5. RISING ACTION:

As the conversation progresses, Mr. Lamb’s calm and non-judgmental demeanor starts to
break down Derry’s defenses. They discuss Derry’s fears, insecurities, and the way people
react to his face.
 6. C LIMAX :

The climax occurs when Mr. Lamb challenges Derry’s negative worldview, urging him to
stop hiding and to live life to the fullest despite his scars. Mr. Lamb’s words deeply resonate
with Derry, sparking a shift in his mindset.

7. FALLING ACTION:

Derry decides to leave the garden but promises to return, inspired by Mr. Lamb’s
philosophy. However, there is a sense of foreboding as Derry’s mother tries to dissuade him
from going back.

8. ANTICLIMAX :

The anticlimax is reached when Derry returns to find Mr. Lamb lying lifeless in the garden,
having fallen from a ladder. His death leaves Derry’s transformation incomplete but
signifies the importance of the message Mr. Lamb imparted.

Read and Find Out

1. Who is Mr. Lamb? How does Derry get into his garden?

Mr. Lamb is an elderly man with an artificial leg who lives alone in a house with a garden.
He enjoys spending time in his garden, tending to it and welcoming visitors, despite his
disability. Derry enters Mr. Lamb’s garden by climbing over the wall while wandering alone.
Initially, Derry feels like he is intruding, but Mr. Lamb reassures him that everyone is
welcome in his garden.

2. Do you think all this will change Derry’s attitude towards Mr. Lamb?

Yes, Derry’s attitude towards Mr. Lamb does change as the story progresses. Initially
defensive and mistrustful, Derry begins to see things differently through their conversation.
Mr. Lamb’s positive outlook and acceptance help Derry start to shift his perspective on life
and self-worth, making him more open to forming connections with others.
Reading with Insight

1. What is it that draws Derry towards Mr. Lamb despite himself?

Derry is drawn towards Mr. Lamb’s warm and inviting personality, as well as his positive
outlook on life. Mr. Lamb’s ability to engage Derry in meaningful conversation and his non-
judgmental attitude create a safe space for Derry, allowing him to feel accepted despite his
insecurities about his appearance.

2. In which section of the play does Mr. Lamb display signs of loneliness and
disappointment? What are the ways in which Mr. Lamb tries to overcome these
feelings?

Mr. Lamb displays signs of loneliness and disappointment when he mentions his solitude
and the absence of visitors in his garden. He tries to overcome these feelings by engaging
with Derry and sharing his philosophy of life, encouraging Derry to embrace life and see
beyond physical limitations. Mr. Lamb also finds solace in nature, taking joy in the beauty
around him.

3. The actual pain or inconvenience caused by a physical impairment is often

much less than the sense of alienation felt by the person with disabilities.
What is the kind of behaviour that the person expects from others?

A person with disabilities often expects understanding, kindness, and acceptance from
others rather than pity or exclusion. They hope for respectful interactions that
acknowledge their abilities rather than solely focusing on their impairments. This behavior
helps them feel included and valued in society.

4. Will Derry get back to his old seclusion, or will Mr. Lamb’s brief association
effect a change in the kind of life he will lead in the future?

While there is a possibility that Derry might struggle with his old tendencies towards
seclusion, Mr. Lamb’s brief association is likely to have a lasting impact on him. The
conversations and insights shared by Mr. Lamb may inspire Derry to adopt a more open and
positive outlook on life, encouraging him to engage more with the world rather than
retreating into isolation.
Memories of Childhood:
The Cutting of My Long Hair by Zitkala-Sa

1. BACKGROUND /SETTING :

The story is set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in a Native American boarding
school where children are forced to abandon their cultural identities.

2. C HARACTERS :

Zitkala-Sa (the narrator): A young Native American girl who struggles with her cultural
identity and the imposition of white cultural values.

The School Officials: Represent oppressive authority figures who enforce conformity and
the loss of cultural identity.

Zitkala-Sa's Mother: Symbolizes traditional Native American values and the pain of
separation from her daughter.

3. THEMES :

Cultural Identity: The struggle between Native American traditions and the pressures of
assimilation.

Loss and Grief: The emotional turmoil of losing one's cultural roots and identity.

Oppression: The impact of colonialism on Indigenous people and their children.

4. BEGINNING :

Zitkala-Sa recalls her early life and the joy of her cultural practices, contrasting them with
the harsh reality of the boarding school.

5. RISING ACTION :

Zitkala-Sa is taken to the boarding school and experiences the painful process of having her
long hair cut, symbolizing the loss of her identity.

6. C LIMAX :

The moment when Zitkala-Sa's hair is cut serves as the climax, representing her complete
disconnection from her cultural identity.
7. FALLING ACTION :

Zitkala-Sa grapples with her feelings of anger and betrayal after the haircut, feeling
alienated from her heritage and community.

8. ANTICLIMAX :

The story concludes with Zitkala-Sa's realization of the importance of her identity, but the
pain of her experiences lingers.

Memories of Childhood:
We Too are Human Beings by Bama
1. BACKGROUND /SETTING :

The story is set in a small village in India, where caste discrimination significantly impacts
the lives of Dalits (the marginalized community).

2. C HARACTERS :

Bama (the narrator): A young Dalit girl who recounts her experiences with discrimination
and her awakening to social injustice.

The Elder Brother: Provides support and encouragement to Bama, guiding her
understanding of their social situation.

The Villagers: Represent the broader society, showcasing the prejudices and injustices
faced by Dalits.

3. THEMES :

Caste Discrimination: The deep-rooted injustices of the caste system in India and its
impact on human dignity.

Awakening to Social Issues: The journey of understanding one's identity and the
importance of standing up against injustice.

Empowerment: The strength of marginalized communities to challenge societal norms.

4. BEGINNING :

Bama narrates her innocent childhood experiences, highlighting her love for school and
learning, unaware of the discrimination she would face.
5. RISING ACTION :

Bama encounters discrimination when her peers treat her differently because of her caste,
which prompts her to reflect on her identity.

6. C LIMAX :

The moment Bama realizes the implications of her caste when she witnesses the injustices
faced by her community, leading to her determination to fight against discrimination.

7. FALLING ACTION :

Bama, inspired by her brother, becomes more aware of the social injustices around her and
begins to embrace her identity with pride.

8. ANTICLIMAX :

The story ends on a hopeful note, as Bama expresses her resolve to challenge the
discrimination faced by her community, acknowledging the ongoing struggle.

Reading with Insight

1. The two accounts that you read above are based in two distant cultures. What
is the commonality of theme found in both of them?

Both accounts highlight cultural oppression and the struggle for identity. Zitkala-Sa’s
narrative illustrates the forced assimilation of Native American children, resulting in a loss
of cultural identity. Bama’s story addresses the discrimination faced by Dalits in the caste
system, emphasizing the emotional scars left by societal structures that deny dignity and
autonomy.

2. It may take a long time for oppression to be resisted, but the seeds of rebellion
are sowed early in life. Do you agree that injustice in any form cannot escape
being noticed even by children?

Yes, children are often sensitive to injustice, as seen in both stories. Zitkala-Sa feels pain
over her cultural loss, while Bama recognizes caste discrimination. These early encounters
with oppression spark their desire for rebellion, demonstrating that awareness of injustice
often begins in childhood.
 3. Bama’s experience is that of a victim of the caste system. What kind of
discrimination does Zitkala-Sa’s experience depict? What are their responses
to their respective situations?

Zitkala-Sa faces cultural discrimination through forced assimilation in a boarding school,

which severs her from her heritage. In response, she expresses anger and sorrow but seeks
to reclaim her identity. Bama experiences social exclusion due to the caste system and
responds with empowerment, recognizing injustice and resolving to challenge it. Both
women exhibit resilience against oppression.