Think and Reflect
Class 6 English · Chapter 2: The Raven and the Fox · NCERT Poorvi section pp. 15–16
Learn
Flattery means praising someone too much, often to get something from them. The Fox's words, calling the Raven "Sir", "handsome" and a future "King", were all flattery. Ravens actually have black, glossy feathers; the Fox made them sound magnificent to puff up the Raven's pride.
Comparing the two characters: the Fox is clever (and a little cunning); the Raven is foolish and proud. We can write this as an analogy: Fox : clever :: Raven : foolish.
Why is pride unwise? When we think too highly of ourselves, we stop thinking carefully. The Raven believed he had a lovely voice and forgot what he was holding. In the book's listening task, the Raven later realises he is smart even without beautiful feathers, and warns others: don't let pride make you lose what you have.
What would you do if someone praised you too much? You could smile and say thank you, but also ask yourself: is this true, and why is this person saying it? Honest praise helps us grow; flattery can trap us.
Explore: Fox or Raven?
- Sort each description.
Remember
- Flattery is too much praise used to get something; the Fox flattered the Raven.
- Pride makes us careless; honest praise helps, flattery can trap us.
Quick check
Fox : clever :: Raven : ______
- foolish
- brave
- kind
- fast
Answer
foolish. The Raven acted foolishly out of pride.
Think about it
Give a different ending: what could the Raven have done to keep his food?
One answer
He could have swallowed or put down the food before answering, flown away, or simply nodded without opening his beak, then enjoyed his meal and laughed at the Fox instead!
Practice
Practise with fresh questions at three levels (easy, medium, hard), some answered hands-on, with hints and worked answers. Get 4 of your last 5 right to finish the topic.