Rikki Tikki Tavi Questions And Answers

Advertisement

rikki-tikki-tavi questions and answers are a popular topic among readers and students who want to deepen their understanding of the classic story by Rudyard Kipling. This story, part of Kipling’s The Jungle Book collection, features Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, a brave mongoose who battles dangerous cobras to protect his human family. Whether you're studying the story for school, preparing for a quiz, or simply want to explore its themes and characters, having a comprehensive set of questions and answers can enhance your appreciation and comprehension. In this article, we will explore common questions about Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, analyze key themes, characters, and lessons, and provide detailed answers to help you gain a thorough understanding of this beloved story.

---

Introduction to Rikki-Tikki-Tavi



Before diving into questions and answers, it’s essential to understand the basic plot and context of the story.

Overview of the Story


Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is a story set in India, where a brave mongoose named Rikki-Tikki is adopted by a family living in a bungalow. The story revolves around Rikki-Tikki’s efforts to protect the family from dangerous cobras, Nag and Nagaina, who threaten their safety. Through cleverness, bravery, and quick thinking, Rikki-Tikki fights off the snakes, demonstrating themes of courage, loyalty, and the importance of standing against evil.

Key Characters


- Rikki-Tikki-Tavi: The courageous mongoose hero.
- Nag and Nagaina: The primary antagonists, cobras causing danger.
- Darzee: A singing tailorbird who helps Rikki-Tikki.
- Teddy: The young boy of the family.
- Mother and Father: The family who cares for Rikki-Tikki and faces the threat of the snakes.

---

Common Rikki-Tikki-Tavi Questions and Answers



This section covers frequently asked questions about the story, its themes, characters, and lessons.

1. Who is Rikki-Tikki-Tavi?


Question: What kind of animal is Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, and what are his main traits?

Answer: Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is a brave and clever mongoose. He is known for his quick reflexes, courage, and loyalty. Throughout the story, Rikki-Tikki demonstrates his courage by fighting dangerous snakes to protect his human family and friends. His cleverness helps him devise plans to outsmart the cobras, making him a symbol of bravery and intelligence.

2. What is the main conflict in the story?


Question: What are the primary dangers faced by the family in the story?

Answer: The main conflict revolves around the threat posed by Nag and Nagaina, two cobras who want to take over the household and attack the family members. Rikki-Tikki-Tavi must confront and defeat these dangerous snakes to protect the family and maintain peace in the bungalow. The story’s central tension is the battle between good (Rikki-Tikki) and evil (the cobras).

3. How does Rikki-Tikki defeat Nag and Nagaina?


Question: What strategies does Rikki-Tikki use to fight the cobras?

Answer: Rikki-Tikki employs bravery, quick thinking, and strategic planning. He first fights Nag in the bathroom, where he kills it by biting its head. Later, he devises a plan to trap Nagaina, using a cricket ball to lure her out of her hiding place. Rikki-Tikki then confronts Nagaina in her nest, where he ultimately defeats her to protect the family. His actions show resourcefulness and determination.

4. What lessons does the story teach about bravery and loyalty?


Question: How are bravery and loyalty portrayed in the story?

Answer: The story highlights that bravery involves facing danger head-on, even when afraid. Rikki-Tikki’s willingness to risk his life to protect the family exemplifies true courage. Loyalty is shown through Rikki-Tikki’s dedication to his human family and friends, as he puts their safety above his own. The story teaches that standing up against evil and protecting loved ones are noble qualities.

5. Who are Nag and Nagaina, and what do they symbolize?


Question: What do the cobras represent in the story?

Answer: Nag and Nagaina symbolize evil, danger, and treachery. They represent threats that must be confronted and overcome. Their cunning and malicious nature contrast with Rikki-Tikki’s bravery and honesty. The story portrays them as villains who threaten peace and safety, emphasizing the importance of courage and righteousness.

6. What role do the other animals play in the story?


Question: How do animals like Darzee and his wife contribute to the story?

Answer: Animals like Darzee the tailorbird and his wife assist Rikki-Tikki in his fight against the cobras. Darzee provides important information about Nagaina’s whereabouts and helps distract her during critical moments. Their cooperation shows the importance of teamwork and supporting each other in times of danger.

7. What is the significance of the ending of the story?


Question: How does the story conclude, and what message does it leave?

Answer: The story ends with Rikki-Tikki successfully defeating Nagaina and restoring peace to the household. The family and animals celebrate the victory, emphasizing themes of bravery, justice, and vigilance. The conclusion reinforces that courage and quick thinking can overcome evil, inspiring readers to stand up for what is right.

---

Deeper Analysis of Themes in Rikki-Tikki-Tavi



Understanding the story’s themes enhances comprehension and appreciation.

1. Courage and Bravery


Rikki-Tikki’s fearless attitude exemplifies true bravery. Despite the danger, he never hesitates to fight the snakes, illustrating that courage involves facing fears to protect others.

2. Loyalty and Protection


Rikki-Tikki’s devotion to the family demonstrates loyalty. His willingness to risk his life underscores the importance of protecting loved ones and standing by them in difficult times.

3. Good vs. Evil


The story portrays a classic battle between good (Rikki-Tikki and friends) and evil (Nag and Nagaina). This theme emphasizes that righteousness and justice can triumph over malicious intent.

4. Cleverness and Strategy


Rikki-Tikki’s success is not just due to bravery but also his intelligence. His strategic planning in trapping Nagaina highlights the importance of wit and resourcefulness.

---

Additional Questions for Study and Discussion



For students or book club members, here are some thought-provoking questions to deepen understanding.


  • How does Rikki-Tikki-Tavi’s character change throughout the story?

  • What are some examples of teamwork in the story?

  • Why do Nag and Nagaina want to harm the family?

  • What role does the setting (the bungalow and garden) play in the story?

  • How does Kipling use animals to convey human virtues and vices?

  • What lessons can we learn from Rikki-Tikki-Tavi about facing fears?



---

Conclusion



In summary, rikki-tikki-tavi questions and answers help readers understand the story’s plot, characters, themes, and moral lessons. The story remains a timeless tale of courage, loyalty, and the triumph of good over evil. By exploring these questions and their detailed answers, readers gain a deeper appreciation of Kipling’s storytelling and the valuable lessons embedded within. Whether for academic purposes or personal enjoyment, understanding the key aspects of Rikki-Tikki-Tavi enriches the reading experience and encourages readers to embrace bravery and integrity in their own lives.

Frequently Asked Questions


What is the main theme of 'Rikki-Tikki-Tavi'?

The main theme is bravery and protection, highlighting Rikki-Tikki-Tavi's courage in defending his family against threats like snakes.

Who are the main characters in 'Rikki-Tikki-Tavi'?

The main characters include Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, Nag and Nagaina (the cobras), and the human family members such as Teddy and his parents.

What kind of animal is Rikki-Tikki-Tavi?

Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is a mongoose known for his bravery and agility in fighting snakes.

How does Rikki-Tikki-Tavi defeat Nag and Nagaina?

Rikki-Tikki-Tavi uses his quickness and cleverness to outsmart and kill Nag and Nagaina, protecting the family from harm.

What lesson does 'Rikki-Tikki-Tavi' teach readers?

The story teaches lessons about bravery, loyalty, and standing up against evil to protect loved ones.

In what setting does the story take place?

The story is set in a colonial bungalow in India, amidst the garden and surroundings where the animals live.

How does Rikki-Tikki-Tavi show bravery throughout the story?

Rikki-Tikki-Tavi shows bravery by confronting dangerous snakes multiple times, risking his life to protect the human family.

What is the significance of the fight between Rikki-Tikki-Tavi and the cobras?

The fight symbolizes good versus evil, with Rikki-Tikki-Tavi representing courage and righteousness in protecting his home.

Who is the author of 'Rikki-Tikki-Tavi'?

The story was written by Rudyard Kipling as part of his 'The Jungle Book' collection.