CBSE Class 9 English Moments NCERT Solutions: Chapter 10 - The Beggar

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NCERT Solutions PDF Class 9 PDF

This resource provides detailed NCERT Solutions for Class 9 English, focusing on Chapter 10, 'The Beggar' from the Moments textbook. It delves into the character of Lushkov, exploring the circumstances and choices that led him to begging. The solutions analyze his interactions with Sergei, his initial reluctance to work, and his eventual transformation. Key themes such as redemption, the impact of kindness, and the struggle against addiction are examined. These solutions offer step-by-step explanations to help students understand the nuances of the story, character development, and underlying messages, making them an excellent tool for exam preparation and a deeper comprehension of the narrative.

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BoardCBSE
ClassClass 9
SubjectMoments
Session2026
LanguageEnglish
TypeNCERT Solutions
Chapter10. The Beggar

Chapter summary

Chapter 10, 'The Beggar,' from the NCERT Class 9 English textbook 'Moments,' is explored through these solutions. The focus is on analyzing the protagonist, Lushkov, his reasons for begging, and his complex relationship with Sergei. The solutions break down the narrative, explaining Lushkov's transformation from a deceitful beggar to a self-reliant individual, highlighting the role of Sergei's intervention and Olga's compassion. Students will gain insights into the story's themes of redemption and the power of empathy.

Learning outcomes

  • Understand the reasons behind Lushkov's begging, distinguishing between circumstance and choice.
  • Analyze Lushkov's motivations for telling lies to Sergei.
  • Evaluate Lushkov's willingness to work and his reasons for accepting Sergei's offer.
  • Explain Sergei's satisfaction with the outcome of his intervention.
  • Trace Lushkov's journey towards self-reliance and earning a livelihood.
  • Identify the role of empathy and kindness in transforming an individual's life.

Topics covered

Paper topics

  • Character analysis of Lushkov
  • Lushkov's transformation
  • Circumstances vs. choice in poverty
  • The role of Sergei's intervention
  • Olga's influence on Lushkov
  • Themes of redemption and compassion
  • Consequences of alcoholism
  • Honest work vs. begging
  • Moral responsibility
  • Narrative analysis of 'The Beggar'

Important topics

  • Lushkov's character development and transformation
  • The significance of Sergei's and Olga's roles
  • Themes of redemption and empathy
  • Analysis of Lushkov's motivations and lies
  • The contrast between begging and honest work

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Questions and Solutions

Question 1: Has Lushkov become a beggar by circumstance or by choice?

Has Lushkov become a beggar by circumstance or by choice?
Solution: Lushkov has become a beggar primarily due to circumstances. He was formerly a choir singer in Russia but was dismissed from his job due to a persistent drinking habit. This led to his inability to find other employment and forced him into begging as a means to survive and make ends meet.

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

What reasons does he give to Sergei for his telling lies?
Solution: Lushkov explains to Sergei that he resorted to telling lies because he had been fired for his alcoholism. He felt that people would be more inclined to offer him alms if he presented a fabricated, pitiable story rather than revealing the truth about his condition and unemployment.

Question 3: Is Lushkov a willing worker? Why, then, does he agree to chop wood for Sergei?

Is Lushkov a willing worker? Why, then, does he agree to chop wood for Sergei?
Solution: Initially, Lushkov is not a willing worker. He agrees to chop wood for Sergei not out of hunger or a desire for work, but because Sergei had caught him in a lie. This exposure made Lushkov feel ashamed, and his conscience compelled him to accept the work. Furthermore, his excessive drinking had weakened him, making him unhealthy and disinclined towards any labor.

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

Sergei says, "I am happy that my words have taken effect." Why does he say so? Is he right in saying this?
Solution: Sergei says this because he observes a significant change in Lushkov's demeanor and situation. When they first met, Lushkov was a reluctant beggar. However, after Sergei arranged for him to do odd jobs, including chopping wood and helping him move, Lushkov showed a growing willingness to work and eventually found a stable job. Sergei feels happy and justified because his intervention, advice, and the opportunities he provided have helped Lushkov escape begging and become financially independent. He is right because his actions led to a positive and lasting change in Lushkov's life.

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

Lushkoff is earning thirty five roubles a month. How is he obliged to Sergei for this?
Solution: Lushkov is deeply obliged to Sergei because their encounter was the catalyst for his transformation. Had Sergei not intervened, Lushkov would likely still be begging on the streets. Sergei provided him with the initial opportunities to work and, crucially, facilitated his connection with Olga. The entire experience, including Sergei's guidance and Olga's compassion, gave Lushkov a new perspective and the motivation to seek honest employment, leading him to his current job earning thirty-five roubles a month.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing Lushkov's initial reluctance with a permanent unwillingness to work.
  • Underestimating the impact of Sergei's actions and Olga's influence on Lushkov's change.
  • Failing to recognize the underlying issues of alcoholism contributing to Lushkov's situation.
  • Interpreting Sergei's actions as purely charitable without acknowledging the element of moral guidance.

Revision tips

  • Focus on Lushkov's character arc: his initial state, the turning points, and his final transformation.
  • Analyze the dialogue between Lushkov and Sergei to understand their motivations and relationship.
  • Consider the role of secondary characters like Olga in Lushkov's rehabilitation.
  • Reflect on the story's themes of redemption, compassion, and the consequences of one's actions.

Practice MCQs

Q1. What was Lushkov's former profession before he became a beggar?

Q2. Why did Lushkov tell lies to Sergei about his situation?

Q3. What was Sergei's initial reaction when Lushkov agreed to chop wood?

Q4. Who is Olga and what was her role in Lushkov's transformation?

Q5. How much is Lushkov earning per month at the end of the story?

Frequently asked questions

What is the main theme of 'The Beggar' chapter in Class 9 English?

The main theme of 'The Beggar' is redemption and the transformative power of compassion and empathy. It shows how a person like Lushkov, driven to begging by circumstances and personal failings, can be helped to change his life through kindness and moral guidance.

Why did Lushkov tell lies to Sergei?

Lushkov told lies to Sergei because he was ashamed of his situation as an alcoholic who had lost his job. He believed that people would be more willing to give him alms if he presented a more pitiable or fabricated story, rather than the truth about his drinking habits.

How did Sergei help Lushkov?

Sergei initially helped Lushkov by offering him odd jobs like chopping wood and moving furniture, despite Lushkov's weak condition. More importantly, Sergei's persistent, though sometimes harsh, guidance and his indirect influence through Olga, who showed compassion, ultimately motivated Lushkov to seek honest work and change his life.

What does Lushkov's transformation signify?

Lushkov's transformation signifies that even individuals in dire circumstances, who may have made poor choices, can be redeemed and achieve self-reliance. It highlights the importance of empathy, opportunity, and moral support in helping people overcome their struggles.

Is Lushkov a beggar by choice or by circumstance?

Lushkov became a beggar primarily by circumstance, stemming from his drinking habit which led to job loss. However, his continued begging involved elements of choice, as he resorted to telling lies and was initially reluctant to do honest work until motivated by Sergei and Olga.

Important links

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