The Beggar — Class 9 English Notes

Topics covered in The Beggar

1. 1.The Beggar

   Short Summary:

   "The Beggar" by Anton Chekhov is a story about a beggar named Lushkoff who lies to survive and how an act of kindness changes his life. Sergei, a lawyer, initially scolds Lushkoff for lying, but offers him work chopping wood. Though weak and unwilling, Lushkoff accepts. Over time, with the help of Sergei’s cook, Olga, Lushkoff transforms and eventually becomes a notary, earning a decent living.

   
   

   Long Summary:

   The story opens with Lushkoff, a beggar, asking Sergei, a lawyer, for help. Lushkoff lies about his past, claiming to be a former teacher, but Sergei remembers him as someone who previously claimed to be a student. Caught in his lie, Lushkoff confesses that he lies because no one helps him when he tells the truth. Sergei, angered by the dishonesty, offers Lushkoff work chopping wood instead of giving him money.

   Lushkoff agrees to the work, though it’s evident he is weak and unwilling. He chops wood with difficulty, and Olga, Sergei's cook, ends up doing most of the work for him. Despite this, Sergei continues to offer him small jobs and payments, believing that his words and actions are reforming Lushkoff.

   Years later, Sergei meets Lushkoff again, now a notary earning a decent income. Lushkoff thanks Sergei for setting him on the right path, but reveals that it was Olga's silent kindness and her habit of chopping the wood for him that truly changed him. Her compassion and quiet support helped Lushkoff regain his self-respect and turn his life around.

   
   

   
   

   Key Events:

   1. Lushkoff lies to Sergei about his past, claiming to be a teacher.
   2. Sergei catches Lushkoff in his lie but offers him work instead of money.
   3. Lushkoff agrees to chop wood, although he struggles with the task.
   4. Olga, the cook, silently helps Lushkoff by chopping the wood herself.
   5. Over time, Lushkoff continues doing small jobs for Sergei and slowly reforms.
   6. Years later, Lushkoff becomes a notary and thanks Sergei, but reveals Olga’s role in his transformation.

   
   

   Lessons to Learn:

   1. Kindness Can Transform Lives: Olga’s silent acts of kindness were the real catalyst for Lushkoff’s transformation.
      
      
   2. Honesty and Hard Work Lead to Redemption: Lushkoff's journey shows that with honest work and the right support, one can change their circumstances.
      
      
   3. Compassion Over Judgement: Sergei’s initial harshness gives way to compassion, which, combined with Olga’s kindness, helps Lushkoff reform.

   
   

   Solved Questions & Answers:
   
   

   1. Has Lushkoff become a beggar by circumstance or by choice?

      • Answer: Lushkoff became a beggar by circumstance. He mentions that he used to sing in a Russian choir but was dismissed due to his drunkenness, leading him to a life of begging.
        
        

   2. What reasons does he give to Sergei for his telling lies?

      • Answer: Lushkoff admits that he lies because telling the truth doesn’t bring him any help. He believes that no one would give him anything if he told the truth about his circumstances.
        
        

   3. Is Lushkoff a willing worker? Why, then, does he agree to chop wood for Sergei?

      • Answer: Lushkoff is not a willing worker. He agrees to chop wood out of pride and shame, as well as feeling trapped by his own words, rather than a genuine desire to work.
        
        

   4. Sergei says, “I am happy that my words have taken effect.” Why does he say so? Is he right in saying this?

      • Answer: Sergei believes that his scolding and offering work to Lushkoff have reformed him. He is partially right, as Lushkoff’s transformation did begin after their encounter, but it was Olga’s kindness that truly changed Lushkoff.
        
        

   5. Lushkoff is earning thirty-five roubles a month. How is he obliged to Sergei for this?

      • Answer: Lushkoff is obliged to Sergei for offering him work and setting him on the path to reform. However, Lushkoff later reveals that it was Olga’s kindness that played a bigger role in his transformation.
        
        

   6. During their conversation, Lushkoff reveals that Sergei’s cook, Olga, is responsible for the positive change in him. How has Olga saved Lushkoff?

      • Answer: Olga saved Lushkoff by silently chopping the wood for him while he pretended to work. Her compassion and silent support made Lushkoff feel ashamed of his condition, which led to his eventual transformation and decision to quit drinking.

   
   

   Essay:
   How Can We Help Beggars and Abolish Begging?

   To address the issue of begging, we must understand the root causes and work on providing sustainable solutions rather than temporary relief.

   First, we should focus on rehabilitation programs that offer beggars skill training and employment opportunities. This helps them become self-sufficient and reduces their reliance on begging. Social support networks, such as shelters and food distribution centers, can provide immediate relief while they transition into stable employment.

   Second, educating the public on the impact of giving money to beggars is essential. Instead of giving money, people can donate to organizations that work towards the rehabilitation of beggars.

   Lastly, government intervention is crucial. Policies that provide support for the homeless, including job creation programs, affordable housing, and access to mental health services, can significantly reduce the need for begging.

   By addressing both the immediate needs and the long-term solutions, we can help beggars transition out of their current situation and work towards abolishing begging altogether.