Mrs Packletide’s Tiger Summary and Questions Answers, Class 10 CBSE, from “Communicative English: Literature Reader,” for 2025. Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger is a humorous and satirical story featured in the Class 10 English curriculum.
This engaging story delves into Mrs. Packletide’s comical quest to shoot a tiger for social acclaim containing themes of vanity and social ambition.
About the Author
Saki, also known as Hector Hugh Munro (1870-1916), was a British writer renowned for his witty stories that satirized the society and culture of his era. He was widely regarded as a master of the short story form.
अनुबाद: साकी, जिन्हें हेक्टर ह्यू मुनरो (1870-1916) के नाम से भी जाना जाता है, एक ब्रिटिश लेखक थे जो अपनी मजाकिया कहानियों के लिए प्रसिद्ध थे जिन्होंने अपने युग के समाज और संस्कृति पर व्यंग्य किया था। उन्हें व्यापक रूप से लघुकथा विधा का विशेषज्ञ माना जाता था।
Summary of the Story, Mrs Packletide’s Tiger Class 10
In “Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger,” Mrs. Packletide wants to shoot a tiger to outdo her rival, Loona Bimberton, who had an aeroplane ride. She pays villagers to arrange the hunt. During the hunt, she shoots a goat instead of the tiger. Miss Mebbin, her companion, blackmails her. Mrs. Packletide pretends to have killed the tiger to save face. The tiger dies of a heart attack from the gunshot. Mrs. Packletide becomes famous, but Miss Mebbin gets a cottage from her.
In the end, Mrs. Packletide stops big-game hunting due to the expenses. The story satirizes society’s vanity and the lengths people go to for prestige. It shows how appearances can be deceiving and the consequences of trying to maintain them. Mrs. Packletide’s desire for social status leads her into absurd situations. The story highlights the absurdity of the upper class’s pursuits and their shallow values. It’s a humorous commentary on human nature and the pursuit of fame and recognition. Through its characters and events, the story mocks societal norms and the lengths individuals go to uphold them.
अनुबाद:
“मिसेज पैकलेटाइड्स टाइगर” में श्रीमती। पैकलेटाइड अपने प्रतिद्वंद्वी लूना बिम्बर्टन से आगे निकलने के लिए एक बाघ को गोली मारना चाहती है, जिसने हवाई जहाज की सवारी की थी। वह शिकार की व्यवस्था करने के लिए ग्रामीणों को भुगतान करती है। शिकार के दौरान वह बाघ की जगह बकरी को गोली मार देती है। उसकी साथी मिस मेबिन उसे ब्लैकमेल करती है। श्रीमती। पैकलेटाइड ने अपना चेहरा बचाने के लिए बाघ को मारने का नाटक किया। बंदूक की गोली से दिल का दौरा पड़ने से बाघ की मौत हो गई। श्रीमती। पैकलेटाइड प्रसिद्ध हो जाता है, लेकिन मिस मेबिन को उससे एक झोपड़ी मिल जाती है।
अंत में, श्रीमती पैकलेटाइड ने खर्चों के कारण बड़े खेल का शिकार बंद कर दिया है। कहानी समाज की घमंड और प्रतिष्ठा के लिए लोग किस हद तक चले जाते हैं, उस पर व्यंग्य करती है। यह दिखाता है कि दिखावा कैसे धोखा दे सकता है और उन्हें बनाए रखने की कोशिश के क्या परिणाम हो सकते हैं। श्रीमती। पैकलेटाइड की सामाजिक स्थिति की चाहत उसे बेतुकी स्थितियों में ले जाती है। कहानी उच्च वर्ग की गतिविधियों की बेरुखी और उनके उथले मूल्यों पर प्रकाश डालती है। यह मानव स्वभाव और प्रसिद्धि एवं मान्यता की खोज पर एक विनोदी टिप्पणी है। अपने पात्रों और घटनाओं के माध्यम से, कहानी सामाजिक मानदंडों और उन्हें बनाए रखने के लिए व्यक्तियों द्वारा की जाने वाली हदों का मजाक उड़ाती है।
Text passage-wise Summary and word notes for Mrs Packletide’s Tiger Class 10
Explore the text passage-wise summary and word notes of Fiction 2: Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger by Saki which is given below. Please consult Class 10 Communicative English; Literature ReaderTEXTBOOK by CBSE 2024-2025 Edition.
Summary of text passage 1: [Page no 15]
Mrs. Packletide wanted to hunt a tiger not because she enjoyed killing, but to outdo Loona Bimberton, who recently flew in an aeroplane and bragged about it. Mrs. Packletide planned to host a lunch to overshadow Bimberton’s achievement, with a tiger-skin rug as the centerpiece. She also schemed to gift Bimberton a tiger-claw brooch out of spite. Unlike most people driven by hunger or love, Mrs. Packletide’s actions were fueled by her dislike for Bimberton.
Words Notes:
pleasure – enjoyment – आनंद
intention – purpose – इरादा
descended – incarnate – उतरा
wholesome – nutritious – पौष्टिक
fraction – portion – अंश
motive – intention – प्रेरणा
deviation – divergence – विचलन
Nimrod – Biblical character (great grandson of Noah); a mighty hunter – बाइबिल चरित्र (नूह का परपोता); एक शक्तिशाली शिकारी
aviator – flying mn – हवाबाज़
procured – acquired – खरीद ब्यौरा
Ostensibly – supposedly – माना जाता है
Conversation – discussion – बातचीत
exception – objection – आपत्ति
governed – administered – अधीन
Swayed – flow – हिलना
Summary of text passage 2: [Page no 15]
Mrs. Packletide offered money to hunt a tiger easily. Luckily, a nearby village had an old tiger that only preyed on small animals. Villagers kept the tiger nearby with easy prey and guarded against it wandering off until Mrs. Packletide’s hunt. They were anxious the tiger might die before her scheduled hunt. People in the village were careful not to disturb the tiger’s sleep, even whispering as they passed through the jungle.
Words Notes:
circumstances – situation – परिस्थितियाँ
propitious – favourable – अनुकूल
exertion – tension – तनाव
rendezvous – meet at an agreed time and place – मिलन स्थल
infirmities – physical or mental weakness – निर्बलताओं
prospect – expectation – आशा
stimulated – agitated – उत्तेजित
instinct – typically fixed pattern of behavior – स्वाभाविक प्रवृत्ति
outskirts – the outer parts of a town or city – किसी कस्बे या नगर का बाहरी भाग
Anxiety – concern – चिंता
elaborate – extensive – विस्तार में बताना
Hushed – calm – शांत
Venerable – reputable – आदरणीय
Summary of text passage 3: [Page no 16]
On a clear, moonlit night, Mrs. Packletide and her companion, Miss Mebbin, waited in a tree platform. They had a bleating goat to attract a tiger, armed with a rifle and patience cards, ready for the hunt.
Words Notes:
constructed – erect – निर्माण
comfortable – cozy – आरामदायक
conveniently – snugly – सुविधापूर्वक
crouched – bend – झुकना
persistent – stubborn – ज़िद्दी
reasonably – fairly and sensibly – यथोचित
expected – required – अपेक्षित
tethered – fasten – बांधना
accurately – purely – सही रूप में
sighted – view – देखना
thumb-nail pack of patience cards – small sized playing cards to play solitaire – सॉलिटेयर खेलने के लिए छोटे आकार के ताश
quarry – a place, typically a large, deep pit – खदान
Summary of text passage 4: [Page no 16]
Miss Mebbin asked if they were in danger.
Summary of text passage 5: [Page no 16]
She wasn’t nervous about the wild animal, but she dreaded doing anything beyond what she was paid for.
Words Notes:
morbid – diseased – रोगी
dread – be fraid of – डर लगना
Atom – particle – कण
Summary of text passage 6: [Page no 16]
Mrs. Packletide dismissed fear, claiming the old tiger couldn’t jump.
Words Notes:
spring up – bounce – उछाल
Summary of text passage 7: [Page no 16]
Complain: Old Tiger should cost less than a thousand rupees.
Summary of text passage 8: [Page no 16]
Louisa Mebbin is cautious with money and has saved various currencies from being spent recklessly. Her thoughts on the value of tiger remnants are interrupted when the tiger appears. The tiger seems to rest briefly before attacking its prey.
Words Notes:
adopted – embrace – अपनाया
irrespective of – regardless of – दिलचस्पी न रखनेवाला
denomination – religion – मज़हब
energetic – powerful – शक्तिशाली
intervention – interruotion – हस्तक्षेप
instinctively – without conscious thought – स्वाभाविक बुद्धि से
headlong – with the head foremost – सिर के बल
speculations – the forming of a theory – hypothesizing
depreciation of – decrease of value – मूल्यह्रास
tethered – tie with a rope or chain – रस्सी या जंजीर से बाँधना
Summary of text passage 9: [Page no 16]
Louisa Mebbin suspected the tiger was sick, announcing it for the village headman nearby to hear.
Summary of text passage 10: [Page no 16]
Mrs. Packletide hushed Louisa Mebbin as the tiger began moving towards its prey.
Words Notes:
ambling – walk or move at a slow, relaxed pace – घूमना
Summary of text passage 11: [Page no 16]
Miss Mebbin urged them to wait anxiously, saying they wouldn’t have to pay for the goat if the tiger didn’t touch it. The goat was used as extra bait.
Summary of text passage 12: [Page no 17]
The rifle fired, and the tiger fell dead. Excited villagers rushed to the scene, spreading the news joyously. Mrs. Packletide’s anticipation of her lunch party grew stronger.
Words Notes:
flashed out – light up – फ्लैश
swarmed – move somewhere in large numbers – बड़ी संख्या में कहीं चले जाओ.
Summary of text passage 13: [Page no 17]
Louisa Mebbin noticed the goat was fatally wounded, not the tiger. The villagers, eager for the reward, pretended Mrs. Packletide shot the tiger. Mrs. Packletide faced the cameras happily, gaining fame. Loona Bimberton, upset, refused to see illustrated papers and declined Mrs. Packletide’s lunch invitation, fearing her repressed emotions.
Words Notes:
senile – having or showing the weaknesses – जरा-जीर्ण
pardonably – forgivingly – क्षमापूर्वक
annoyed – unsatisfied – नाराज़
repressed – restrained – दमित
Summary of text passage 14: [Page no 17]
Louisa Mebbin hinted that everyone would find it amusing if they knew the truth about what happened at the ball.
Summary of text passage 15: [Page no 17]
Mrs. Packletide quickly wanted to know what she meant by that.
Summary of text passage 16: [Page no 17]
Miss Mebbin sarcastically suggested that Mrs. Packletide shot the goat and scared the tiger to death, accompanied by a somewhat unpleasant laugh.
Summary of text passage 17: [Page no 17]
Mrs. Packletide expressed disbelief, noting that no one would accept such a claim. Her facial expression changed quickly, akin to flipping through a pattern book before posting it.
Words Notes:
book of patterns – Book showing the colour patterns of racing. stables, with colours worn by jockeys – रेसिंग के रंग पैटर्न दिखाने वाली किताब। अस्तबल, जॉकी द्वारा पहने जाने वाले रंगों के साथ
post-time.- the start of horse race and deadline for placing a bet – घुड़दौड़ की शुरुआत और दांव लगाने की समय सीमा
Summary of text passage 18: [Page no 17]
Miss Mebbin said that Loona Bimberton would believe it. Mrs. Packletide’s face turned an unattractive greenish-white color.
Summary of text passage 19: [Page no 18]
She asked if they wouldn’t reveal her secret.
Summary of text passage 20: [Page no 18]
Louisa Mebbin’s charming weekend cottage, named “Les Fauves,” is admired by her friends for its beauty, especially during the summer when its garden is filled with tiger-lilies.
Words Notes:
irrelevance – inapplicability – नामुनासिबत
Summary of text passage 21: [Page no 18]
Louisa Mebbin’s charming weekend cottage, named “Les Fauves,” is admired by her friends for its beauty, especially during the summer when its garden is filled with tiger-lilies.
Words Notes:
Les Fauves – French for ‘ The Wild Animals’
admiration – praise – प्रशंसा
Summary of text passage 22: [Page no 18]
The general opinion is that it’s amazing how Louisa manages everything.
Words Notes:
verdict – judgement – निर्णय
Summary of text passage 23: [Page no 18]
Mrs. Packletide stops participating in big-game hunting.
Words Notes:
Indulges – allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of – भोगता
Summary of text passage 24: [Page no 18]
Mrs. Packletide stops big-game hunting due to the high incidental expenses, which she mentions to her friends when asked.
Words Notes:
incidental – abrupt – आकस्मिक
expenses – the cost required for something – खर्च
confides – reveal – विश्वास करता है
inquiring – curious – तहकीकात का
Mrs Packletide’s Tiger Class 10 Questions Answers [Textual]
2. Read these lines and guess the answers to the questions given below
It was Mrs. Packletide’s pleasure and intention that she should shoot a tiger …. The compelling motive ….was the fact that Loona Bimberton had recently …… personally procured tiger-skin and a heavy harvest of Press photographs could successfully counter that sort of thing.
(a) Why did Mrs. Packletide want to kill a tiger?
(b) What does it tell you about her?
(c) What is the tone of the story writer?
(d) Do you think she was successful in her mission?
(e) What do you think the story is all about?
Ans:
(a) Mrs. Packletide wanted to kill a tiger to compete with Loona Bimberton’s recent fame for flying in an airplane.
(b) It tells us that Mrs. Packletide is competitive and concerned with maintaining her social status and reputation.
(c) The tone of the storywriter is satirical, poking fun at the characters’ vanity and social pretensions.
(d) Mrs. Packletide was technically successful in shooting a tiger, but the circumstances surrounding the hunt and the ultimate fate of the tiger reveal the absurdity and superficiality of her motivations.
(e) The story explores themes of vanity, social competition, and the absurd lengths people will go to to prove their superiority or gain recognition. It satirizes the shallow values and behaviors of the characters, offering a humorous critique of society and human nature.
On Page 18
4. Read the extract and answer the questions that follow.
II.“It was Louisa Mebbin who drew attention to the fact that the goat was in death throes from a mortal bullet-wound, while no trace of the rifle’s deadly work could be found on the tiger. Evidently the wrong animal had been hit and the beast of prey had succumbed to heart-failure, caused by the sudden report of the rifle, accelerated by senile decay. Mrs. Packletide was pardonably annoyed at the discovery; but, at any rate, she was the possessor of a dead tiger and the villagers anxious for their thousand rupees, gladly connived at the fiction that she had shot the beast. And Miss Mebbin was a paid companion.
(i) Which line from the extract supports the idea that people had no doubts about Mrs. Packletide missing her mark?
Ans: (… villagers anxious for their thousand rupees, gladly connived at the fiction that she had shot the beast,’
(ii) Select the option that correctly reveals the character traits of Mrs. Packletide.
1. Miserly
3. Blunt
2. Opportunistic
4. Greedy
5. Pretentious
(a) 1, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 3, 4 and 5
(b) 2, 3, 4 and 5
(d) 2, 4 and 5
Ans: (ii) (d) 2, 4 and 5
(iii) Select the sentence that captures the central idea of the extract.
(a) Being ignorant is not so much a shame as being unwilling to learn.
(b) Sometimes, a man wants to be stupid if it lets him do a thing his cleverness forbids.
(c) Humans are the most unreliable species.
(d) The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance- it is the illusion of knowledge.
Ans: (iii) (d) The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance- it is the illusion of knowledge.
(iv) Identify the writer’s tone in this extract.
Ans: (iv) In the given extract, the writer has taken an objective as well as a satirical tone in presenting how a rich lady can manipulate people with the power of money.
(v) Select the option that displays the reason for Mrs. Packletide’s brief annoyance.
(a) The covering up of her blunder.
(b) The death of the goat.
(c) The sudden report of the rifle.
(d) The participation of the villagers
Ans:(v) (b) The death of the goat.
On Page 19
4. Answer the following questions in your own words.
(a) What made Mrs. Packletide decide to give a party in Loona Bimberton’s honour? What did she intend to give Loona on her birthday? What had Mrs. Packletide already arranged in her mind for Loona Bimberton? CBSE 2012
Ans: Mrs. Packletide decided to give a party in Loona Bimberton’s honor because she wanted to overshadow Bimberton’s recent fame of flying in an aeroplane. She intended to give Loona a tiger-claw brooch on her birthday. Mrs. Packletide had already planned a lunch at her house, with a tiger-skin rug as the centerpiece, to boast about her hunting exploits and eclipse Bimberton’s achievement.
(b) Who was Miss Mebbin? Was she really devoted to Mrs. Packletide? How did she behave during the tiger shooting?
Or Do you think that Louisa Mebbin was devoted to Mrs. Packletide? Give reasons for your answer. CBSE 2015,
Ans: Miss Mebbin was a paid companion to Mrs. Packletide. While she accompanied Mrs. Packletide, there’s no indication of genuine devotion. During the tiger shooting, Miss Mebbin showed excitement and suggested not paying for the goat if the tiger didn’t touch it.
(c) Mrs. Packletide was a good shot. Discuss.
Ans: Mrs. Packletide’s marksmanship is questionable. Despite firing the rifle, it was Louisa Mebbin who noticed the goat was fatally wounded, not the tiger. The tiger’s death was likely due to natural causes rather than Mrs. Packletide’s shooting skills.
(d) What comment did Miss Mebbin make after Mrs Packletide fired the shot? Why did Miss Mebbin make this comment? How did Mrs Packletide react to thisComment?
Ans: After Mrs. Packletide fired the shot, Miss Mebbin commented, “Now, now! if he doesn’t touch the goat we needn’t pay for it.” She made this comment because she observed that the goat was fatally wounded, indicating that the tiger had not been hit. Mrs. Packletide, annoyed by this discovery, faced the situation with a light heart, as she was still the possessor of a dead tiger due to the villagers’ willingness to maintain the fiction that she had shot it.
(e) Briefly comment on the behaviour of the villagers throughout the story.
Ans: The villagers played along with Mrs. Packletide’s narrative, eagerly supporting the fiction that she had shot the tiger to ensure they received the promised reward. Their actions highlight their willingness to participate in the charade for financial gain, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to the situation.
(f) Did Mrs. Packletide achieve her heart’s desire? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans: Mrs. Packletide did achieve her immediate goal of acquiring a dead tiger for her own vanity and to outshine Loona Bimberton’s recent feat. However, her success was more a result of fortunate circumstances and the villagers’ complicity in maintaining the illusion of her prowess as a hunter, rather than her actual skill. Therefore, while she achieved her superficial objective, the deeper satisfaction of genuine accomplishment may be lacking.
(g) How did Miss Mebbin manage to get her week-end cottage? Why did she plant so many tiger-lilies in her garden?
Ans: Miss Mebbin obtained her weekend cottage through her clever manipulation of Mrs. Packletide’s vanity and desire to outdo Loona Bimberton. By subtly suggesting that she might acquire a tiger-lily pattern for her china if she had a cottage in the neighborhood, she convinced Mrs. Packletide to purchase the cottage for her.
She planted many tiger-lilies in her garden as a humorous and ironic nod to the events surrounding Mrs. Packletide’s tiger hunt. The tiger-lilies serve as a reminder of the fabricated story of the tiger hunt and the absurdity of Mrs. Packletide’s pursuit of vanity and social status.
(h) “The incidental expenses are so heavy”, she confides to inquiring friends. Who is the speaker? What is she referring to here?
Ans: The speaker is Mrs. Packletide. She is referring to the unexpected costs and burdens associated with maintaining her newly acquired weekend cottage, which she purchased for Miss Mebbin.
(i) Do you think the silent figure of Loona Bimberton, in the background, plays a crucial role in the story? Explain.
Ans: Yes, the silent figure of Loona Bimberton plays a crucial role in the story. She serves as the catalyst for Mrs. Packletide’s tiger-hunting scheme, as Mrs. Packletide’s desire to outshine Bimberton’s recent aeroplane ride prompts her to pursue the tiger hunt. Additionally, Bimberton’s presence highlights the theme of social competition and the lengths individuals may go to in order to maintain or elevate their social standing.
On Page 20
6. Discuss the following questions in detail and write the answers in yournotebooks:
(a) Do you think the tiger shooting organized by the villagers was a serious affair? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans: The tiger shooting organized by the villagers was not a serious affair, but rather a farcical and opportunistic event. Several reasons support this perspective:
Lack of genuine hunting atmosphere: The entire setup lacks the seriousness and solemnity typically associated with a genuine hunting expedition. Instead, it appears more like a staged performance, with the villagers going through the motions to satisfy Mrs. Packletide’s desire for a trophy.
Absence of real hunting skills: Mrs. Packletide’s lack of genuine hunting prowess is evident throughout the story. She relies on the villagers to ensure the tiger remains within shooting range, and the ultimate success of the hunt is attributed more to luck than skill.
Financial incentive: The villagers’ motivation for participating in the tiger shooting is primarily financial. They eagerly support the charade to receive the promised reward of a thousand rupees from Mrs. Packletide. Their willingness to fabricate the story of Mrs. Packletide’s successful hunt highlights the transactional nature of the event.
Comic elements: The story is filled with comedic elements, such as the mix-up between the goat and the tiger, and the ironic twist at the end when it is revealed that the tiger died of natural causes rather than being shot by Mrs. Packletide. These elements contribute to the overall lighthearted tone of the narrative.
In conclusion, the tiger shooting organized by the villagers was not a serious affair but rather a comical and opportunistic endeavor driven by financial gain and social aspirations.
(b) Do you think the writer is trying to make fun of the main characters in the story i.e. Mrs. Packletide, Miss Mebbin, and Loona Bimberton? Pick out instances from the story that point to this fact.
Ans: Yes, the writer appears to be using satire to make fun of the main characters in the story, including Mrs. Packletide, Miss Mebbin, and Loona Bimberton. Several instances in the story support this interpretation:
Mrs. Packletide’s vanity: Mrs. Packletide’s obsession with social status and her desire to outdo Loona Bimberton are portrayed in a satirical light. Her decision to organize a tiger hunt solely to garner attention and fame, rather than out of genuine sporting interest, highlights the absurdity of her character.
Miss Mebbin’s manipulation: Miss Mebbin’s cunning manipulation of Mrs. Packletide’s vanity to acquire a weekend cottage showcases the opportunistic nature of her character. Her subtle hints about acquiring a tiger-lily pattern for her china serve as a humorous commentary on her ability to exploit Mrs. Packletide’s vulnerabilities.
Loona Bimberton’s superficiality: Loona Bimberton’s preoccupation with her own social standing and image is depicted satirically. Her refusal to engage with illustrated papers and her repressed emotions upon receiving a tiger-claw brooch highlight the shallowness of her character and the absurdity of her concerns.
Comic twists and ironies: The story is replete with comic twists and ironies that serve to lampoon the characters’ actions and motivations. The mix-up between the goat and the tiger, the revelation that the tiger died of natural causes, and the villagers’ complicity in maintaining the fiction of Mrs. Packletide’s success all contribute to the satirical tone of the narrative.
Overall, the writer employs satire to mock the superficiality, vanity, and pretensions of the main characters, turning their actions and motivations into objects of ridicule and amusement for the reader.
(c) A person who is vain is full of self importance and can only think of himself/herself and can go to great lengths to prove his/her superiority. Do you think Mrs Packletide is vain? Give reasons in support of your answer.
Ans: Yes, Mrs. Packletide can be considered vain based on her actions and motivations throughout the story. Several reasons support this assessment:
Desire for social status: Mrs. Packletide’s decision to organize a tiger hunt is driven primarily by her desire to elevate her social standing and outdo Loona Bimberton, who recently gained attention for flying in an aeroplane. Her obsession with maintaining her reputation and proving her superiority over Bimberton reflects her vanity.
Materialistic tendencies: Mrs. Packletide’s willingness to spend a large sum of money on the tiger hunt, as well as on other frivolous pursuits like acquiring a weekend cottage for Miss Mebbin, demonstrates her materialistic tendencies. She values possessions and social status as measures of her own importance.
Lack of genuine interest in hunting: Mrs. Packletide’s lack of genuine interest or skill in hunting is evident throughout the story. She views the tiger hunt as a means to an end—achieving fame and recognition—rather than as a genuine sporting endeavor. Her focus on the outcome rather than the process underscores her self-centeredness.
Revelation of the truth: When it is revealed that the tiger died of natural causes and Mrs. Packletide did not actually shoot it, she is more concerned about the inconvenience to her reputation than the truth itself. Her willingness to perpetuate the fiction of her success highlights her vanity and desire for validation.
Overall, Mrs. Packletide’s actions and motivations in the story demonstrate her vanity, as she prioritizes her own self-importance and social status above all else, even at the expense of honesty and integrity.
(d)Sometimes writers highlight certain negative aspects in society or human beings by making fun of them. This is called a Satire. In your groups, discuss whether you would classify this story as a satire. Give reasons to support your answer.
Ans: Yes, this story can be classified as satire. The writer employs humor and irony to mock certain negative aspects of society and human behavior, particularly the vanity, superficiality, and social pretensions of the characters. Several reasons support this classification:
Exaggeration: The characters in the story exhibit exaggerated traits and behaviors, such as Mrs. Packletide’s extreme vanity and desire for social status, Miss Mebbin’s cunning manipulation, and Loona Bimberton’s superficiality. These exaggerated caricatures serve to highlight the absurdity of these traits in society.
Social commentary: The story serves as a commentary on societal values and priorities, particularly the importance placed on wealth, status, and social recognition. Through the characters’ actions and motivations, the writer critiques the superficiality and shallowness of these societal norms.
Irony and humor: The story is filled with irony and humor, such as the mix-up between the goat and the tiger, the revelation that the tiger died of natural causes, and the villagers’ complicity in maintaining the fiction of Mrs. Packletide’s success. These comedic elements serve to satirize the characters’ actions and the absurdity of their motivations.
Critique of human nature: The story offers a critique of human nature, highlighting the lengths to which individuals will go to satisfy their own vanity and ego, even at the expense of honesty and integrity. By exposing the flaws and weaknesses of the characters, the writer invites readers to reflect on their own behavior and societal values.
In conclusion, the story employs satire to humorously critique and lampoon certain negative aspects of society and human nature, making it a fitting example of this literary genre.
On Page 20-21
7. Choose extracts from the story that illustrate the character of the people listed in the table given below. There are some words given to help you. You may add words of your own. One has been done as an example:
(i) The compelling motive for her sudden Competitive deviation towards the footsteps ofNimrod was the fact that LoonaBimberton had recently been carried eleven miles in an aeroplane by an Algerian aviator, and talked of nothing else; only a personally procured tiger-skin and a heavy harvest of Press photographs could successfully counter that sort of thing (ii) Mrs. Packletide had offered a thousand rupees for the opportunity of shooting atiger without over-much risk or exertion (iii) Mrs. Packletide faced the cameras with a light heart, and her pictured fame reached from the pages of the Texas Weekly Snapshot to the illustratedMonday supplement of theNovoe Vremya.
Competitive
Shrewd
vain
Louisa Mebbin
(i) “If it’s an old tiger I think you ought to get it cheaper. A thousand rupees is alot of money.”
(ii) Louisa Mebbin adopted a protective elder-sister attitude towards money ingeneral, irrespective of nationality or denomination (iii) “How amused every one would be if they knew what really happened,” said Louisa Mebbin a few days after the ball.
(iv) Louisa Mebbin’s pretty week-end cottage, christened by her “Les Fauves,” and gay in summer-time with its gardenborders of tiger-lilies, is the wonder and admiration of her friends
Stingly
materialistic
cunning and mischievous
sophisticated
Loona Bimberton
(i) As for Loona Bimberton, she refused to look at an illustrated paper for weeks, and her letter of thanks for the gift of a tiger-claw brooch was a model ofrepressed emotions
(ii) There are limits beyond which repressed emotions become dangerous.
vain and emotionally reserved.
repressing emotions
On Page 22
8. There are many amusing lines in the story. Here are a few of them. Rewrite each one in ordinary prose so that the meaning is retained. One has been done for you as an example.
(a) It was Mrs. Packletide’s pleasure and intention that she should shoot a tiger.
Ans: Mrs. Packletide wanted to shoot a tiger
(b) Mrs. Packletide had already arranged in her mind the lunch she would give at her house on Curzon Street, ostensibly in Loona Bimberton’s honour, with a
tiger-skin rug occupying most of the foreground and all of the conversation.
Ans: Mrs. Packletide had arranged a lunch at her house on Curzon Street to display her tiger rug in the guise of honoring Loona Bimberton.
(c) Mothers carrying their babies home through the jungle after the day’s work in the fields hushed their singing lest they might curtail the restful sleep of the
venerable herd-robber.
Ans: Mothers carrying their children silently returned home so as to not disturb the tiger.
(d) Louisa Mebbin adopted a protective elder-sister attitude towards money in general, irrespective of nationality or denomination.
Ans: Louisa Mebbin was stingy.
(e) Evidently, the wrong animal had been hit, and the beast of prey had succumbed to heart-failure, caused by the sudden report of the rifle, accelerated by senile decay.
Ans: The tiger had died of heart failure.
(f) As for Loona Bimberton, she refused to look at an illustrated paper for weeks, and her letter of thanks for the gift of a tiger-claw brooch was a model of repressed emotions.
Ans: Loona Bimberton was jealous and refused to see the illustrated paper and her letter of thanks showed her jealousy.
9. An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines normally-contradictory terms. The most common form of oxymoron involves an adjective-noun combination of two words like- failed success.
Writers often use an oxymoron to call attention to an apparent contradiction. For example, Wilfred Owen’s poem The Send-off refers to soldiers leaving for the front line, who “lined the train with faces grimly gay.” The oxymoron ‘grimly gay’ highlights the contradiction between how the soldiers feel and how they act: though they put on a brave face and act cheerful, they feel grim. Some examples of oxymorons are- dark sunshine, cold sun, living dead, dark light, almost exactly etc. The story Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger has a number of oxymorons. Can you identify them and write them down in your notebooks?
Ans:
silent clamor
comfortable cruelty
urgent leisure
friendly insolence
drowsy wakefulness
restful excitement
On Page 23
WRITING TASK
10 (a) Years later, Mrs. Packletide writes her autobiography. As Mrs. Packletide, write about the tiger episode with the help of the clues given below.
[jealous of the applause Loona was getting-thought of tiger hunt-all arranged- Louisa Mebbin accompanied; turned out to be a blackmailer-huge price to pay to
outdo a rival]
Ans: As I reflect on that memorable tiger episode, I am reminded of the curious mixture of emotions that prompted my decision. It all began with a twinge of jealousy towards the attention Loona Bimberton was receiving, basking in the applause for her recent airborne adventure. Determined not to be outdone, I conceived the idea of a tiger hunt, a spectacle that would surely eclipse any aeroplane ride.
With the arrangements swiftly made, I embarked on the expedition, accompanied by my loyal companion, Louisa Mebbin. Little did I know at the time that Louisa would reveal herself to be nothing more than a blackmailer, exploiting my ambitions for her own gain.
In hindsight, I realize the exorbitant price I paid to satisfy my competitive urges and outdo a rival. Yet, despite the tumultuous events that followed, the tiger episode remains a testament to my unwavering determination and ambition to conquer any challenge, no matter the cost.
(b) Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger by Saki is seeped in rich wit and humour. Choose and describe the most Laugh-Out-Loud (LOL) moment in the story. Give at least three reasons as to why you think this the most LOL moment.
Ans: One of the most Laugh-Out-Loud (LOL) moments in “Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger” occurs when it is revealed that the tiger Mrs. Packletide supposedly shot was actually killed by natural causes, and Mrs. Packletide’s attempt to outshine her rival, Loona Bimberton, was based on a misunderstanding. Here are three reasons why this moment is particularly humorous:
Irony and Dramatic Irony: The irony of the situation is rich and amusing. Mrs. Packletide’s grand scheme to shoot a tiger and boast about it turns out to be unnecessary, as the tiger dies of natural causes. This twist is compounded by the fact that Mrs. Packletide remains oblivious to the truth, while the reader is aware of the absurdity of her situation, creating a sense of dramatic irony that adds to the humor.
Satirical Commentary: The revelation that Mrs. Packletide’s triumph was based on a misunderstanding serves as a satirical commentary on the superficiality and vanity of social competition. Mrs. Packletide’s desperate attempt to outdo Loona Bimberton with a fabricated achievement highlights the absurd lengths people will go to in pursuit of social status and recognition, eliciting laughter at the ridiculousness of the situation.
Comic Timing and Resolution: The timing of the revelation adds to the comedic effect. After building up anticipation for Mrs. Packletide’s triumphant moment, the story delivers a punchline that deflates her ambitions in a humorous and unexpected way. The resolution of the plot, with Mrs. Packletide unwittingly accepting credit for a tiger she did not actually shoot, adds to the hilarity of the situation and invites laughter at her expense.
(c) In groups of four, construct the dialogues and enact the following situations from the story:
1. Mrs. Packletide and the headman of the village/other villagers discussing the details of the tiger shooting
2. Miss Mebbin blackmailing Mrs Packletide into gifting her a cottage
3. Loona Bimberton and a lady-friend discussing Mrs Packletide’s hunting success
Ans:
(a) Mrs. Packletide and the headman of the village/other villagers discussing the details of the tiger shooting:
Mrs. Packletide: Good afternoon, Mr. Headman. I trust the arrangements for the tiger shooting are proceeding smoothly?
Headman: Yes, Mrs. Packletide. We have stationed our best trackers and have ensured the tiger remains within the designated area.
Mrs. Packletide: Excellent. I expect nothing but the finest hospitality for my guests once the hunt is successful.
Villager 1: Madam, should we inform you immediately if we spot the tiger?
Mrs. Packletide: Absolutely. I want to be ready with my rifle at a moment’s notice. Remember, the reward awaits those who assist in my triumph.
(b) Miss Mebbin blackmailing Mrs. Packletide into gifting her a cottage:
Miss Mebbin: Mrs. Packletide, I couldn’t help but notice that charming cottage for sale nearby.
Mrs. Packletide: Yes, it is rather quaint, isn’t it? But I’m not in the market for a cottage at the moment.
Miss Mebbin: Oh, but imagine how lovely it would be to have a weekend retreat. Perhaps I could acquire a tiger-lily pattern for my china if I had a cottage nearby.
Mrs. Packletide: (alarmed) Tiger-lily pattern, you say? Well, I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to have a cottage for the weekends.
Miss Mebbin: (smirking) Of course, Mrs. Packletide. I’ll leave the arrangements to you.
(c) Loona Bimberton and a lady-friend discussing Mrs. Packletide’s hunting success:
Loona Bimberton: Darling, have you heard about Mrs. Packletide’s latest exploit?
Lady-friend: Oh, you mean the tiger shooting? Yes, it’s been the talk of the town.
Loona Bimberton: Honestly, I can’t imagine why anyone would want to go hunting for a tiger. It seems rather barbaric, don’t you think?
Lady-friend: Absolutely. But you must admit, Mrs. Packletide does know how to make a splash.
Loona Bimberton: (chuckling) Indeed. Though, I must say, I prefer my adventures to be a bit less… ferocious.
Extract Based Questions Answers from Mrs Packletide’s Tiger Class 10
Read the following extracts carefully and answer the questions that follow.
1.Not that the lust to kill had suddenly descended on her, or that she felt that she would leave India safer and more wholesome than she had found it, with one fraction less of wild beast per million of inhabitants.
(a) The word in the extract means ‘complete’.
(b) Which country was Mrs. Packletide residing in?
(c) What is the tone of the writer?
(d) What context does the word ‘lust’ bear?
Ans.(a) wholesome
(b) Mrs. Packletide was residing in India, which had a high population of wild animals.
(c) The tone of the writer is satirical.
(d) ‘Lust’ has the context of extremity of a desire.
2. In a world that is supposed to be chiefly swayed by hunger and by love, Mrs. Packletide was an exception; her movements and motives were largely governed by dislike of Loona Bimberton.
(a) By what were Mrs. Packletide’s movements and motives governed?
(b) Why was Mrs. Packletide different from other people?
(c) What had Mrs. Packletide planned to outshine Loona Bimberton’s achievement?
(d) The word in the extract is a synonym of ‘influenced’.
Ans. (a) Mrs. Packletide’s movements and motives were mostly governed by her dislike of Loona Bimberton.
(b) Mrs. Packletide was different from others because their movements and motives were governed by hunger and love.
(c) Mrs. Packletide had planned to shoot a tiger and display its skin at a party to outshine Loona Bimberton’s achievement.
(d) ‘swayed’
3.The prospect of earning the thousand rupees had stimulated the sporting and commercial instinct of the villagers;
(a) The word…….in the extract is an antonym of ‘discouraged.”
(b) Why was the money offered?
(c) What was the reaction of the villagers to the offer?
(d) ‘Money provokes.’ Justify the statement in the light of the extract.
Ans.(a) ‘stimulated’
(b) The money was offered for arranging a tiger for Mrs. Packletide to shoot without any risk or exertion.
(c) This (1000) was a big amount of money for the villagers. So, they readily accepted it and helped Mrs. Packletide in her mission to shoot a tiger.
(d) Money makes the things done. It really provokes the desire of people. Villagers were keen on getting that sum for getting the tiger killed.
4. Mothers carrying their babies home through the jungle after the day’s work in the fields hushed their singing lest they might curtail the restful sleep of the venerable herd-robber.
(a) Who is the herd-robber?
(b) Why did the mothers not want to disturb the herd-robber?
(c) What ultimately happened to the herd-robber?
(d) The word……… in the extract means the same as “highly respected due to age’.
Ans.(a) The old tiger in the jungle is the herd-robber.
(b) The mothers did not want to disturb the tiger because he was very old and ill. They did not want the tiger to die before the actual shoot took place.
(c) The tiger died due to heart failure on hearing the loud noise of Mrs. Packletide firing her gun.
(d) ‘venerable’
5. Louisa Mebbin adopted a protective elder-sister attitude towards money in general, irrespective of nationality or denomination.
(a) Who was Louisa Mebbin?
(b) What was Louisa Mebbin’s attitude towards money?
(c) The word, in the extract is a synonym of ‘citizenship.”
(d) Justify the usage of ‘protective’ for Louisa Mebbin.
Ans.(a) Louisa Mebbin was Mrs. Packletide’s paid companion who was supposed to assist her during the tiger shoot.
(b) Louisa Mebbin adopted a protective elder-sister attitude towards money and could go to any length to earn it in any form.
(c) ‘nationality’
(d) ‘Protective’ is the right usage for Louisa Mebbin for she could go to any length to get money despite the methods she adopted being unusual.
6. “I believe it’s ill”, said Louisa Mebbin, loudly in Hindustani, for the benefit of the village headman, who was in ambush in a neighbouring tree.
(a) Who seems to be ill?
(b) When was the remark made?
(c) What do you mean by ‘ambush’?
(d) Why was the headman is ambush?
Ans.(a) The tiger seems to be ill.
(b) The remark was made when the tiger laid down on the ground after seeing the goat.
(c) It means ‘hiding’ in this context.
(d) As the villagers decided to help the lady in shooting the tiger, the village headman was hiding in the neighbouring tree to ensure that the tiger was killed in case Mrs. Packletide failed to kill the tiger.
7.As for Loona Bimberton, she refused to look at an illustrated paper for weeks, and her letter of thanks for the gift of a tiger-claw brooch was a model of repressed emotions.
(a) Why did Loona Bimberton not look at the papers for weeks?
(b) The word…….in the extract means ‘restrained’.
(c) Why were her emotions ‘repressed’?
(d) State the motive behind presenting a tiger-claw brooch to Loona Bimberton.
Ans.(a) The newspapers were full of news about Mrs. Packletide’s tiger hunt. Mrs. Loona Bimberton probably couldn’t stand the sight of Mrs. Packletide being praised so much.
(b) ‘repressed’
(c) Loona Bimberton was jealous of the attention Mrs. Packletide was getting, but she couldn’t do anything about it. Hence, her emotions were repressed.
(d) Mrs. Packletide wanted to present a tiger-claw brooch to Loona Bimberton just to satisfy her own vanity and tell her rival that she was also an achiever.
8.“How amused everyone would be if they knew what really happened.”
(a) The word….in the extract is a synonym of ‘delighted.”
(b) What is the speaker trying to say?
(c) What was the tone of the speaker?
(d) Explain the intricacies of ‘what really happened.’
Ans.(a) ‘amused’
(b) Louisa Mebbin is trying to say that Mrs. Packletide’s tiger hunt was a falsity, and if people got to know about it then Mrs. Packletide’s social reputation would surely be tarnished.
(c) The tone of the speaker appears to be threatening.
(d) ‘What really happened’ indicates that the tiger was not shot dead by Mrs. Packletide’s bullet but it died due to heart failure.
9. “How you shot the goat and frightened the tiger to death”, said Miss Mebbin, with her disagreeably pleasant laugh.
(a) In the above statement Louisa Mebbin is making fun of Mrs. Packletide. Why?
(b) Which characteristic of Louisa Mebbin is highlighted the above extract?
(c) Which word in the above extract means the same as ‘scared’?
(d) What hidden intentions were in the mind of Louisa Mebbin when she made the statement?
Ans.(a) Louisa Mebbin was making fun of Mrs. Packletide because instead of killing the tiger, Mrs. Packletide shot the goat.
(b) It reveals that she is an opportunist and had a keen sense of observation.
(c) The word is ‘frightened”.
(d) Louisa Mebbin had the intention in her mind to make some money from her knowledge that the tiger was not shot dead by Mrs. Packletide.
10.“Six hundred and eighty, freehold. Quite a bargain, only I don’t happen to have the money.”
(a) Who is the speaker here?
(b) The word……….here means ‘a good deal.’
(c) What does the speaker want to purchase?
(d) Why did the speaker say these words?
Ans.(a) Louisa Mebbin is the speaker here.
(b) ‘bargain’
(c) She wanted to purchase a week-end cottage.
(d) Louisa Mebbin said these words to blackmail Mrs. svitom by Packletide into giving her the amount of money required for buying a cottage in England.
11.Mrs. Packletide indulges in no more big-game shooting. “The incidental expenses are so heavy”, she confides to Vinquiring friends.
(a) The word………..in the extract means ‘secondary.”
(b) What lesson does Mrs. Packletide learn during the big game hunting?
(c) How did the incidental expenses become heavy?
(d) How would you assess the heavy expenses of Mrs. Packletide?
Ans.(a) incidental’
(b) Mrs. Packletide had suffered a huge loss in her attempt to outdo her rival and thus dropped the idea of indulging in big game hunting in future.
(c) Apart from 1000 promised to the villagers, Mrs. Packletide had to pay 680 pounds (English currency) for Louisa Mebbin’s week-end cottage due to being
blackmailed. This made the incidental expenses too heavy for Mrs. Packletide.
(d) Mrs. Packletide’s heavy expenses are an example of an unplanned and fame seeking act. She should have thought of all possibilities of the tiger hunt before venturing into it.
Short Question Answers Type from Mrs Packletide’s Tiger Class 10
Answer the following questions in 30-40 words.
1. What motivated Mrs. Packletide to deviate towards the footsteps of Nimrod?
Ans. Like any other woman of high society, Mrs. Packletide was an ordinary housewife. The news of Loona Bimberton being flown 11 miles by an Algerian pilot aroused her jealousy and the bitterness of her heart compelled her to resort to hunting a tiger in order to outshine her. This inordinate desire motivated her to deviate towards the footsteps of Nimrod (a famous hunter in the old testament of the Bible.)
2. Why did Mrs. Packletide wish to kill a tiger?
Or, What was the motive behind Mrs. Packletide’s decision to shoot a tiger?
Ans: Mrs. Packletide’s arch rival, Loona Bimberton, had gained popularity because she was flown eleven miles in an aeroplane by an Algerian pilot. Mrs. Packletide felt jealous of her. She wanted to prove that she was braver and more adventurous than her rival. Hence, she wanted to kill a tiger.
3. How did the dislike for Loona Bimberton affect Mrs. Packletide’s life?
Ans: Mrs. Packletide’s activities were guided by her great dislike for Loona Bimberton. Whatever she planned and implemented was a result of this hatred. Her wish to outshine Loona pushed her into actions like big game hunting, sending her a tiger-claw brooch and planning a luncheon party to A outshine Loona.
4. In what way did the villagers help Mrs. Packletide shoot the tiger? CBSE 2012
or How did the villagers help Mrs. Packletide achieve her wish to get even with Loona Bimberton?
Ans: It was only due to the villagers’ help that Mrs. Packletide could shoot the tiger, They posted children to see that the through the jungle, sang softly so that the noise would not tiger did not move away to other grounds. Women, passing disturb the tiger. A goat was also tied at the scene to attract the tiger to a particular place.
5. How did the circumstances prove favourable for the tiger hunt by Mrs. Packletide in ‘Mrs. Packletide’s tiger’? CBSE 2019
Ans: The circumstances proved to be favorable for the hunt by Mrs. Packletide because a neighbouring village, which was a famous point where a lot of tigers were found, had recently reported the presence of an old tiger.
6. Mention three clues from the story which definitely show that Mrs. Packletide’s adventure took place in India.
Ans: The story is certainly set in India. There are some clues given on in the story regarding it. Some words like “India’, ‘Hindustani’ and ‘a thousand rupees’ have been used in the story. Hence, we can say that the adventure of Mrs. Packletide took place in India.
7. What do you understand by the expression “a ready echo in the heart of Mrs. Packletide”?
Ans: Mrs. Packletide was overconfident about her ability to shoot a tiger. Hence, the phrase “a ready echo in the heart of Mrs. Packletide” here means that she was confident that her bullet had killed the tiger and was happy that her plan of hunting a tiger was successful.
8. What actually led to the tiger’s death?
Ans: The old tiger actually died due to heart failure caused by the sudden sound of the gun. The bullet had, in fact, hit the goat and not the tiger. In the excitement, this fact was overlooked by all but was noticed by Louisa Mebbin, Mrs. Packletide’s paid companion.
9. Why did the villagers and Miss Mebbin hide the fact that Mrs. Packletide had not killed the tiger? CBSE 2019
Ans: The villagers and Miss Mebbin hid the fact that Mrs. Packletide had missed the shot and killed the goat to get the money. The villagers were getting 1000 while Miss Mebbin was also getting a financial reward.
10. “Mrs. Packletide faced the cameras with a light heart.” What made her feel so relaxed?
Ans: Mrs. Packletide was quite confident while facing the cameras because she thought that the villagers were sure not to reveal the truth behind the tiger hunt as they wanted the thousand rupees. Also, Louisa Mebbin was a paid companion. So, she had no fear of her secret being revealed.
11. How did Loona Bimberton react to Mrs. Packletide’s invitation to the luncheon party in her honour? Why did she react that way?
Ans: Angered and irritated by Mrs. Packletide’s achievement of killing a tiger, Loona Bimberton declined the invitation. Mrs. Packletide’s achievement had paled her own adventure into insignificance and she couldn’t bear to see her rival in the limelight.
12. What advantage did Louisa Mebbin take from Mrs. Packletide? Why? CBSE 2011
Or How does Louisa Mebbin blackmail Mrs. Packletide into gifting her a cottage? CBSE 2011
Ans: Louisa Mebbin knew that Mrs. Packletide had actually not shot the tiger. She was a cunning woman and decided to use this to her advantage. She threatened and blackmailed Mrs. Packletide by demanding a big amount to buy a week-end cottage for not letting out her secret.
13. What kind of a woman was Louisa Mebbin?
Ans: Louisa Mebbin served as Mrs. Packletide’s paid companion, displaying possessiveness over money. She was thrifty, avoiding tipping, and opposed spending a thousand rupees on an old tiger. An opportunist, she adeptly manipulated situations for personal gain, ultimately blackmailing Mrs. Packletide into purchasing a weekend cottage.
14. Why did Mrs. Packletide give up big-game shooting CBSE 20
Ans: Mrs. Packletide gave up big-game shooting because she had to pay a really heavy price for indulging in the sport She had paid the villagers for organising the shoot. Moreover, she had to pay Louisa Mebbin a considerable sum for keeping her secret. The cunning woman had blackmailed Mrs. Packletide into gifting her a cottage.
15. How was the tiger hunt more beneficial to others than to Mrs. Packletide? CBSE 2016
Ans: Mrs. Packletide’s main objective behind the tiger hunt was to demoralise Mrs. Loona Bimberton. She failed in her mission miserably because Mrs. Loona Bimberton declined her invitation to the luncheon party she had thrown to show off. On the other hand, she had to spend a huge sum of money due to being blackmailed by Miss Mebbin. Further, she had already paid the villagers for aiding her in the hunt. Thus, the hunt was more beneficial to others than to Mrs. Packletide.
16. What message is conveyed through the story ‘Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger’?
Ans: The story conveys the message that those who consider themselves smart enough to outshine others often get outsmarted themselves. The actions of these manipulative people can backfire and recoil on them.
17. Miss Mebbin was a clever opportunist. Substantiate with reference to ‘Mrs. Packletide’s tigers, CBSE 2019
Ans: It is true that Miss Mebbin was petty and clever opportunist who found ways to save and earn money. She is introduced to us as a miser who saved money wherever possible. Her opportunist nature comes forward when she not only hides the truth of the hunt to get money but later also blackmails Mrs. Packletide to buy her a cottage
Long Answers Questions from Mrs Packletide’s Tiger Class 10
1. The story ‘Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger’ revolves around big time shooting. Though hunting is banned nowadays, animals are still being hunted. Write an article for ‘Earth Today’ magazine titled ‘Impact of Killing Animals on Environment’.
Ans:
Impact of Killing Animals on Environment
In today’s world, the ongoing threat to nature’s delicate balance is exacerbated by the practice of hunting animals for sport or profit, presenting profound consequences for our environment. Despite heightened awareness and conservation efforts, hunting remains a significant challenge to the sustainability of ecosystems.
The impact of animal killings extends beyond mere species loss, disrupting entire ecosystems and triggering cascading effects on biodiversity, habitat stability, and ecological processes. Removal of key predator species, for instance, leads to unchecked growth in prey populations, resulting in overgrazing, habitat degradation, and eventual ecosystem collapse.
Moreover, hunting disrupts natural selection and genetic diversity, reducing resilience to environmental changes and increasing vulnerability to diseases. This jeopardizes species’ long-term survival and overall ecosystem health.
Beyond ecological concerns, hunting also affects socio-economic aspects. Many communities rely on wildlife for livelihoods through tourism or resource utilization, and indiscriminate hunting disrupts these, leading to economic instability and social tensions.
Efforts to address these issues require promoting conservation, sustainable land management, and responsible wildlife practices. This involves enforcing regulations against illegal hunting, establishing protected areas, and empowering communities for conservation efforts.
Raising awareness about wildlife’s importance and interconnectedness is crucial for fostering respect for nature. Through education and advocacy, we can promote ethical practices and ensure the protection of our natural heritage for future generations.
In conclusion, hunting for sport or profit poses significant threats to the environment, biodiversity, and human welfare. Adopting a holistic conservation approach is essential to safeguarding our planet’s ecosystems and preserving its wonders for generations to come.
2. Show that Miss Mebbin is greedy and Mrs. Packlętide is jealous. CBSE 2020
Miss Mebbin’s Greed:
Manipulative Behavior: Miss Mebbin’s manipulation of Mrs. Packletide’s desire to outdo Loona Bimberton showcases her greed. She cunningly suggests the idea of purchasing a cottage, hinting that it would be beneficial for both of them.
Blackmailing Mrs. Packletide: Miss Mebbin’s ultimate goal is to acquire the cottage for herself, even if it means exploiting Mrs. Packletide’s ambitions. She subtly blackmails Mrs. Packletide by insinuating that she could acquire a desirable item (a tiger-lily pattern) if she had a cottage nearby.
Self-Interest: Miss Mebbin’s actions throughout the story revolve around her own self-interest. She doesn’t hesitate to manipulate Mrs. Packletide to fulfill her own desires, demonstrating her greed and lack of concern for others.
Mrs. Packletide’s Jealousy:
Competitive Nature: Mrs. Packletide’s decision to organize a tiger hunt is driven by her jealousy towards Loona Bimberton’s recent fame. She feels compelled to outshine Bimberton and regain the spotlight for herself.
Desire for Recognition: Mrs. Packletide’s jealousy stems from her desire for recognition and validation from society. She is willing to go to great lengths, including organizing a tiger hunt, to prove her superiority and outdo her rival.
Insecurity: Mrs. Packletide’s jealousy reveals her underlying insecurity and need for external validation. She is unable to bear the thought of someone else receiving attention or praise, leading her to engage in competitive and sometimes reckless behavior.
