The Class 10, chapter 6 on Mijbil the Otter by Gavin Maxwell is a heartwarming and insightful narrative about the author’s unique relationship with his pet otter, Mijbil. The story begins with Maxwell’s decision to keep an otter as a pet after the death of his dog, Jonnie. The chapter explores the challenges and joys of caring for a wild animal, the intelligence and playful nature of otters, and the difficulties of transporting Mijbil from Iraq to England.
Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, Maxwell highlights the deep bond between humans and animals, while also emphasizing the responsibilities of pet ownership and the ethical considerations of keeping wild animals as pets.
Key Events in Mijbil the Otter
1. Introduction to Pet Ownership:
- Owning a pet: The chapter begins with a discussion on the responsibilities of owning a pet, emphasizing the commitment and care required.
- Activity: Students are encouraged to think about the responsibilities of pet ownership and create a list of things needed to care for a pet.
2. Maxwell’s Decision to Keep an Otter:
- Grief Over Jonnie’s Death: After the death of his dog, Jonnie, Maxwell feels lonely and decides to keep an otter as a pet.
- Choosing Camusfearna: Maxwell believes his cottage in Camusfearna, surrounded by water, would be an ideal place for an otter.
3. Journey to Basra, Iraq:
- Travel to Southern Iraq: Maxwell travels to Basra to collect his mail and casually mentions his desire to keep an otter to a friend.
- Unexpected Gift: Two Arabs deliver a sack containing Mijbil, the otter, as a gift from Maxwell’s friend.
4. Mijbil’s Arrival and Early Days:
- First Encounter: Maxwell describes Mijbil’s appearance as resembling a “medievally-conceived dragon” covered in mud.
- Mijbil’s Behavior: Initially aloof and indifferent, Mijbil gradually warms up to Maxwell and becomes playful, especially in water.
- Discovery of Mijbil’s Species: Mijbil is identified as a previously unknown species of otter, later named Lutrogale perspicillata maxwelli (Maxwell’s otter).
5. Mijbil’s Playful Nature:
- Water Play: Mijbil’s love for water is highlighted as he splashes and plays in the bathtub.
- Inventive Games: Mijbil invents games, such as rolling marbles on his belly and playing with a ping-pong ball in a sloping suitcase.
6. Transporting Mijbil to England:
- Challenges of Air Travel: Maxwell faces difficulties transporting Mijbil by air, as the airline insists on packing him in a small box.
- Mijbil’s Escape: Mijbil escapes from the box, causing chaos on the plane, but eventually settles on Maxwell’s lap.
7. Life in London with Mijbil:
- Daily Walks: Maxwell takes Mijbil on walks in London, where the otter develops compulsive habits, such as running along a wall.
- Public Reactions: Londoners are puzzled by Mijbil’s appearance, often mistaking him for other animals like a baby seal or a squirrel.
Central Theme of Mijbil the Otter :
The central theme of the chapter revolves around the bond between humans and animals, particularly the unique relationship between Maxwell and his otter, Mijbil. The story also explores themes of responsibility, adaptation, and the challenges of caring for a wild animal in a domestic setting. Additionally, it touches on the ethical implications of keeping wild animals as pets and the importance of understanding and respecting their natural behaviors and habitats.
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