CBSE Class 10 English Chapter 8: Mijbil the Otter - NCERT Solutions

Solution: The author, Gavin Maxwell, demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to his pet otter, Mijbil. Owning a pet is a significant, lifelong responsibility that requires utmost care and attention, a principle Maxwell clearly adhered to. He made extensive arrangements to ensure Mijbil's comfort, happiness, and well-being.

The author's dedication is evident in the following aspects:

• Provision of Toys: Mijbil was provided with numerous toys to keep him entertained and stimulated. These included marbles, rubber balls, and a terrapin shell, catering to his playful nature.
• Observation of Habits: Maxwell closely observed Mijbil's unique habits and traits, which allowed him to understand and cater to the otter's specific needs and preferences.
• Encouraging Natural Behavior: He encouraged Mijbil to engage in activities he enjoyed, fostering a sense of freedom and trust.
• Daily Exercise: Mijbil was taken out for exercise every day, ensuring he received adequate physical activity.
• Immediate Care During Injury: When Mijbil was injured, Maxwell's immediate reaction was one of horror and concern, showing his deep affection. He promptly took Mijbil out of the box and comforted him.
• Facilitating Play with Water: Recognizing the natural affinity otters have for water, Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathtub, allowing him to play and enjoy himself, which brought Mijbil immense joy.
• Comfort During Travel: On the aircraft, Maxwell was grateful to the air hostess for suggesting he take Mijbil out of his box, understanding the otter's need for comfort and space even during travel.
• Affection and Companionship: Mijbil's affectionate behavior towards Maxwell, and Maxwell's enjoyment of Mijbil's antics, highlight a strong bond built on mutual affection and companionship.

Maxwell treated Mijbil not just as a pet, but as a cherished companion, ensuring he had everything needed for a happy and healthy life.

Solution: Based on the typical content of such chapters and the nature of the list created in Question 1 (which details the author's care and arrangements for Mijbil), the first four illustrations on page 100 would likely correspond to the list. These illustrations would typically depict aspects like Mijbil playing with toys, interacting with water, or receiving care from the author, all of which align with the points made about the author's commitment and arrangements.

Solution: Mijbil, being an active and emotional creature, exhibits a range of feelings through his actions. Here is the completed table correlating his actions with his emotions:

1. Plunges, rolls in water - Goes wild with joy. Mijbil's enthusiastic interaction with water shows his immense happiness and excitement.
2. Opens the water tap. - Reveals his intelligence and feels happy. This action demonstrates Mijbil's cleverness and problem-solving skills, likely accompanied by a sense of satisfaction.
3. Tries to come out of the box. - Gets injured and feels exhausted. This action, particularly when he was injured, suggests distress and a desire to escape his confinement or discomfort.
4. Invents a game of his own with the ping- pong ball. - Feels amused. Creating his own game indicates Mijbil's playful nature and his ability to entertain himself, showing he finds enjoyment in his activities.
5. Sleeps on Maxwell's bed - Feels love for Maxwell. Sleeping on the author's bed signifies a deep sense of comfort, security, and affection towards Maxwell.
6. Disappears on the plane, there are shrieks, shrill cries and shouts all around by the passengers. - Gets scared and returns to Maxwell. The commotion caused by his disappearance and the passengers' reactions suggest Mijbil was frightened and sought the safety of Maxwell.