Introduction: “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
“A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra, first published in the 1918 collection Hindu Tales from the Sanskrit, shows a cunning protagonist confronts a moral quandary through a series of clever maneuvers. This tale exemplifies the collection’s focus on using traditional narratives to explore ethical themes and impart wisdom, all while captivating readers with its suspenseful plot and engaging characters.
Main Events in “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
1. Introduction: Hari-Sarman’s Situation
- Hari-Sarman, a lazy man with a large family, struggles to provide for them in a poor village in India.
- His lack of industriousness leads him to rely on begging and stealing, even from his neighbors.
2. Hari-Sarman’s Scheme
- Tired of poverty, Hari-Sarman devises a plan to pose as a wise man in a big city, along with his wife, Vidya.
- They hoodwink a wealthy merchant, who offers them shelter and work.
3. The Stolen Mare
- Feeling neglected during a wedding celebration in the merchant’s house, Hari-Sarman decides to steal the merchant’s beloved mare to gain attention and favor.
- Vidya suspects Hari-Sarman’s involvement but tries to manipulate the situation to their advantage.
4. Hari-Sarman’s Dilemma
- Hari-Sarman faces the consequences when the king’s treasure goes missing, and he is summoned to reveal the thief’s identity.
- Fearing punishment, he struggles to maintain his deception.
5. Jihva’s Confession
- A servant named Jihva, implicated in the theft, seeks Hari-Sarman’s help to avoid punishment.
- She confesses her involvement, hoping he will protect her.
6. The King’s Test
- Hari-Sarman faces a final test when asked to identify the contents of a sealed pitcher.
- He narrowly avoids exposure by a fortunate choice of words, convincing the king of his wisdom.
7. Hari-Sarman’s Departure
- Despite his success, Hari-Sarman decides to flee the city, fearing exposure and planning to escape with his ill-gotten gains.
- He leaves behind his family and the pitcher, disappearing without a trace.
8. Moral Reflections
- The story prompts reflection on deceit, manipulation, and the consequences of dishonesty.
- Hari-Sarman’s character is complex, with elements of cunning, fear, and self-preservation.
9. Lessons Learned
- The tale illustrates the dangers of deception and the importance of integrity.
- It highlights the consequences of selfishness and dishonesty on individuals and their families.
10. Conclusion: The Legacy of Hari-Sarman
- Hari-Sarman’s departure leaves unanswered questions about his true nature and motives.
- His story serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of greed and deception, leaving readers to ponder its deeper meanings.
Literary Devices in “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
| Literary Device | Example | Explanation |
| 1. Foreshadowing | Hari-Sarman’s plan to pose as a wise man | He scheme to deceive the merchant foreshadows his later attempts at deception. |
| 2. Irony | Hari-Sarman’s laziness and subsequent success | The irony lies in his lazy nature juxtaposed with his successful deceitful schemes. |
| 3. Symbolism | The stolen mare | The mare symbolizes Hari-Sarman’s desperate attempt to gain attention and favor. |
| 4. Allegory | Hari-Sarman’s journey from poverty to deceit to escape | His journey symbolizes the pitfalls of dishonesty and the consequences of selfish actions. |
| 5. Allusion | Reference to Hindu culture and Sanskrit literature | The story draws upon Hindu culture and Sanskrit tales, enriching its narrative with tradition. |
| 6. Imagery | Descriptions of the merchant’s lavish household | Vivid imagery paints a picture of opulence, contrasting with Hari-Sarman’s impoverished life. |
| 7. Metaphor | Hari-Sarman’s comparison of himself to a frog | The metaphor highlights Hari-Sarman’s vulnerability and helplessness in his predicament. |
| 8. Personification | The mare’s response to kindness | Personifying the mare adds depth to the narrative and emphasizes its bond with the bride. |
| 9. Simile | Comparison of Hari-Sarman’s life to starvation | The simile vividly conveys Hari-Sarman’s feelings of neglect and deprivation. |
| 10. Hyperbole | Hari-Sarman’s exaggerated fear of the king’s punishment | Hyperbole emphasizes Hari-Sarman’s desperation and the severity of his predicament. |
| 11. Repetition | Hari-Sarman’s repeated use of Jihva’s name | Repetition highlights Hari-Sarman’s realization of Jihva’s involvement in the theft. |
| 12. Suspense | Hari-Sarman’s impending exposure and escape | Suspense builds tension as Hari-Sarman faces the threat of discovery and plots his escape. |
| 13. Flashback | Hari-Sarman’s reminiscence of his childhood | Flashbacks provide insight into Hari-Sarman’s character and motivations. |
| 14. Motif | Deception and manipulation | The motif of deceit runs throughout the story, driving its plot and character development. |
| 15. Foil | Hari-Sarman’s contrast with the honorable king | The foil highlights the contrast between Hari-Sarman’s deceit and the king’s integrity. |
| 16. Paradox | Hari-Sarman’s successful deception and imminent downfall | The paradox lies in Hari-Sarman’s temporary success despite his inevitable downfall. |
| 17. Tone | Shift from desperation to triumph | Tone shifts convey changes in mood and atmosphere, reflecting the story’s evolving narrative. |
| 18. Setting | Contrast between the poor village and the merchant’s house | Setting enhances the story’s themes and contrasts characters’ circumstances. |
| 19. Theme | Consequences of deceit and selfishness | The theme explores the moral implications of dishonesty and its impact on individuals. |
| 20. Point of View | Third-person omniscient | The omniscient narrator provides insight into characters’ thoughts and motivations. |
Characterization in “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
Major Characters:
- Hari-Sarman:
- Lazy and deceitful man who seeks to improve his situation through deception.
- Example: Hari-Sarman’s laziness and willingness to deceive are evident in his decision to pose as a wise man to gain favor with the merchant.
- Explanation: Hari-Sarman’s characterization as lazy and deceitful drives the central conflict of the story, highlighting the consequences of his actions and the depths to which he will sink to escape poverty.
- Vidya:
- Hari-Sarman’s wife who initially neglects him but later seeks his help to gain favor with the merchant.
- Example: Vidya neglects Hari-Sarman during the wedding preparations but later acknowledges his ability to reveal secrets in an attempt to gain favor with the merchant.
- Explanation: Vidya’s characterization evolves from neglectful to strategic as she recognizes Hari-Sarman’s potential to improve their situation through deception, demonstrating her adaptability and willingness to manipulate others for personal gain.
Minor Characters:
- Merchant:
- Wealthy and gullible employer who falls for Hari-Sarman’s deception.
- Example: The merchant readily accepts Hari-Sarman’s false claims of wisdom and employs him without question.
- Explanation: The merchant’s characterization as gullible and easily deceived serves as a foil to Hari-Sarman’s cunning nature, highlighting the contrast between honesty and deceit in the story.
- Jihva:
- Servant girl in the palace who aids the thief in stealing the gold and jewels.
- Example: Jihva confesses to Hari-Sarman her involvement in the theft and pleads for his silence to protect herself and the thief.
- Explanation: Jihva’s characterization as a conflicted accomplice adds complexity to the story’s moral dilemmas, illustrating the consequences of her actions and her desperate attempts to avoid punishment.
- King:
- Just and discerning ruler who tests Hari-Sarman’s claims of wisdom.
- Example: The king subjects Hari-Sarman to a test of his abilities by presenting him with a pitcher containing a frog, challenging him to reveal its contents.
- Explanation: The king’s characterization as wise and discerning contrasts with Hari-Sarman’s deceitful nature, serving as a moral authority and arbiter of truth in the story.
Major Themes in “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
1. The Importance of Honesty and Truthfulness:
- Hari-Sarman’s Deception: From the beginning, Hari-Sarman avoids work and relies on lies. He convinces the merchant he has “the power to find out secrets” (Chapter II) to secure a comfortable life.
- Temporary Success, Lingering Fear: While his lies initially bring rewards, Hari-Sarman constantly worries about exposure. He questions Vidya’s neglect “because of the wonderful power that has been given him” (Chapter IV), highlighting his insecurity about the truth.
- Flight as a Consequence: The fear of being exposed as a fraud ultimately drives Hari-Sarman to flee the city, taking his ill-gotten gains (Chapter VIII). This escape emphasizes the impermanence of success built on dishonesty.
2. Actions Have Consequences:
- Laziness and Poverty: The story establishes a cause-and-effect relationship between Hari-Sarman’s laziness and his initial poverty. “He had a wife whose name was Vidya, and a large family; and even if he had been very industrious it would have been difficult for him to get enough food for them all. Unfortunately he was not a bit industrious, but very lazy” (Chapter I).
- Lies Lead to Danger: Hari-Sarman’s lie about finding the stolen mare (Chapter III) puts him in a precarious position. He has to manipulate and bargain to maintain his fabricated image, increasing the risk of exposure.
- Family Affected by Choices: Hari-Sarman’s dishonesty not only hurts him but also impacts his family. They are initially forced to beg and steal due to his laziness (Chapter I), and later, he abandons them altogether (Chapter VIII).
3. The Power of Chance and Luck:
- Accidental Solutions: Hari-Sarman doesn’t possess any real skills. He stumbles upon solutions by chance. When he steals the mare, it doesn’t resist because “it had always been so kindly treated” (Chapter III). Similarly, his overheard conversation with Jihva helps him during his imprisonment (Chapter VI).
- Unreliable Strategy: The story highlights the unreliability of depending solely on luck. Hari-Sarman constantly worries about being found out, living in fear until he escapes.
- Frog in the Pitcher: The final trial exposes his lack of genuine ability. He only guesses the content of the pitcher based on a childhood nickname, a lucky coincidence (Chapter VIII).
4. Appearances Can Be Deceiving:
- Hari-Sarman’s Facade: Hari-Sarman portrays himself as a wise man with special abilities. He convinces the merchant and the king of his power to reveal secrets (Chapter II, VII).
- Deception Exposed: The story gradually reveals Hari-Sarman’s true nature. The wise men at court suspect him (Chapter VII), and his lucky guesses expose his lack of genuine skills (Chapter VIII).
- Looking Beyond the Surface: The story serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to be wary of appearances and judge people by their actions and character.
Writing Style in “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
1. Descriptive Language:
- Example: “Amongst them was a lovely little Arab mare, the special favourite of the bride, who often went to pet it and give it sugar.”
- Explanation: The authors use descriptive language to vividly portray characters, settings, and objects, enhancing the reader’s imagination and immersion in the story.
2. Dialogue:
- Example: “Give me till to-morrow,” he replied in a faltering voice; “I must have a little time to think.”
- Explanation: Dialogue is used to reveal characters’ thoughts, emotions, and intentions, advancing the plot and providing insight into their personalities and relationships.
3. Narrative Perspective:
- Example: “When it got quite dark in the prison, Hari-Sarman began to talk to himself aloud.”
- Explanation: The narrative perspective shifts between characters’ points of view, allowing readers to understand their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, adding depth and complexity to the storytelling.
4. Foreshadowing:
- Example: “He was in despair and walked up and down, trying in vain to think of some way of escape.”
- Explanation: The authors use foreshadowing to hint at future events or outcomes, building suspense and anticipation as the story progresses.
5. Moral Commentary:
- Example: “Now the man is gone, it really does not matter who or what he was.”
- Explanation: The authors include moral commentary to reflect on the consequences of characters’ actions and decisions, offering insights into human nature and ethical dilemmas.
6. Symbolism:
- Example: “The lid was shut down, and the man who pretended to know everything was brought into the great reception room, where all the wise men of the court were gathered together.”
- Explanation: The authors use symbolism, such as the closed lid of the pitcher, to represent secrets or hidden truths, adding depth and layers of meaning to the narrative.
7. Irony:
- Example: “Oh, frog, what trouble has come to you! That pitcher will be the death of you!”
- Explanation: The authors employ irony, such as Hari-Sarman’s inadvertent revelation of the pitcher’s contents, to create humor or dramatic irony, where the audience knows more than the characters, enhancing the reader’s engagement with the story.
8. Character Development:
- Example: “His request was, of course, granted; and he went off with the pitcher under his arm, full of rejoicing over his narrow escape.”
- Explanation: The authors use character development to depict changes in characters’ attitudes, beliefs, or actions over the course of the story, highlighting their growth or transformation.
Literary Theories and Interpretation of “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
Reader-Response Theory:
- Description: This theory emphasizes the reader’s active role in constructing meaning from a text. The reader’s experiences, biases, and cultural background shape their interpretation.
- Application to the Story: “A Clever Thief” can evoke different reactions in different readers. Some readers might find Hari-Sarman’s clever escapes entertaining, while others might be frustrated by his dishonesty. The story’s open ending (whether Hari-Sarman reforms or not) allows readers to draw their own conclusions about his character and the consequences of his actions.
- Interpretation: The story’s value lies in its ability to spark discussion and individual interpretations. Different readers might emphasize different themes, such as the thrill of trickery, the importance of honesty, or the role of luck in life.
- Description: This theory examines how gender roles and power dynamics are portrayed in literature. It often critiques the marginalization of women.
- Application to the Story: Vidya, Hari-Sarman’s wife, occupies a somewhat submissive role. She initially neglects him but later seeks his approval (Chapter IV). However, she also demonstrates some agency by seeking out the merchant and suggesting Hari-Sarman’s “powers” (Chapter III).
- Interpretation: The story offers a nuanced portrayal of a woman in a patriarchal society. Vidya is not simply a victim but also demonstrates some resourcefulness. Readers can debate whether the story reinforces traditional gender roles or offers a more complex picture.
- Description: This theory examines the legacy of colonialism and its impact on literature. It critiques the way colonized cultures are often misrepresented or marginalized.
- Application to the Story: The story’s origin in a translated collection of Hindu tales raises questions about cultural context. While the specific setting isn’t heavily emphasized, the inclusion of elements like “Jihva” (Sanskrit for tongue) suggests a non-Western origin.
- Interpretation: Readers familiar with Hindu culture might bring richer interpretations to the story, recognizing potential symbolic elements or moral lessons specific to that tradition. The story also invites a discussion about the importance of appreciating diverse literary voices and cultural perspectives.
Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
| Topic | Question | Thesis Statement |
| 1. Morality and Deception | How do the characters’ moral choices influence the outcome of the story? | In “A Clever Thief,” the interplay between morality and deception drives the narrative, revealing the consequences of characters’ actions and decisions. |
| 2. Character Development | How do the main characters evolve throughout the story? | Through their experiences and interactions, the main characters in “A Clever Thief” undergo significant development, transitioning from self-serving individuals to morally aware individuals. |
| 3. Symbolism and Hidden Truths | What symbolic elements are present in the story, and how do they contribute to its themes? | The use of symbolism, particularly the pitcher and frog, serves to illuminate hidden truths and moral complexities, enriching the narrative of “A Clever Thief.” |
| 4. Power Dynamics | How do power dynamics influence the characters’ relationships and decisions? | The power struggles between characters in “A Clever Thief” highlight themes of authority, manipulation, and self-interest, shaping the story’s conflicts and resolutions. |
Short Questions/Answers about/on “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
- Question: Does the story glorify or critique laziness?
- Answer: “A Clever Thief” critiques laziness. While Hari-Sarman initially enjoys a comfortable life due to his lies, his dishonesty leads to constant fear and a life on the run (Chapter VIII). The story portrays hard work and responsibility as essential for a fulfilling life. Even the king, initially impressed by Hari-Sarman’s tricks, relies on his wise advisors who value truth and discernment (Chapter VII).
- Question: To what extent is Hari-Sarman a victim of circumstance?
- Answer: Hari-Sarman’s circumstances play a role in his choices. He initially struggles with poverty due to his laziness (Chapter I). However, the story emphasizes his agency. He actively chooses to deceive rather than work hard. Even when presented with opportunities to reform, like his reunion with his children, he prioritizes personal gain and escapes (Chapter VIII). Ultimately, the story suggests we are responsible for our actions and the choices we make.
- Question: Is Jihva’s love for the thief admirable or foolish?
- Answer: Jihva’s love for the thief is a complex issue. Her loyalty and willingness to protect him can be seen as admirable (Chapter VI). However, her actions also put her and Hari-Sarman at risk. She reveals sensitive information due to panic, jeopardizing their situation (Chapter VII). The story leaves it up to the reader to decide whether Jihva’s love is ultimately a strength or a weakness.
- Question: Does the story have a clear ending, or is it left open to interpretation?
- Answer: “A Clever Thief” has an open ending. We learn Hari-Sarman escapes with his ill-gotten gains, but his future remains unclear (Chapter VIII). The story doesn’t explicitly state whether he reforms or continues his life of deception. This ambiguity allows readers to ponder the consequences of his actions and contemplate the possibility of redemption.
Literary Works Similar to “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
- “The Stolen White Elephant” by Mark Twain: Twain’s story involves the investigation of a stolen white elephant, leading to humorous and unexpected twists.
- “The Man Who Would Be King” by Rudyard Kipling: This tale follows two adventurers who seek to establish themselves as rulers in a remote kingdom, highlighting themes of ambition and hubris.
- “The Canterville Ghost” by Oscar Wilde: Wilde’s story combines comedy and supernatural elements as an American family moves into a haunted English mansion and deals with the ghostly inhabitant.
- “The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle” by Arthur Conan Doyle: A Sherlock Holmes mystery, this story involves the theft of a valuable gemstone and Holmes’s investigation to uncover the truth.
- “The Extraordinary Adventures of a Chief of Police” by Gaston Leroux: This story follows a police chief’s quest to recover stolen jewels, leading to encounters with various eccentric characters and unexpected challenges.
Suggested Readings about/on “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
- Mitra, Siddha Mohana, and N. D’Anvers. Hindu tales from the Sanskrit. IndyPublish. com, 1921.
- Edgerton, Franklin. “A Hindu book of tales: the Vikramacarita.” The American Journal of Philology 33.3 (1912): 249-284.
- Narayan, Kirin. Storytellers, saints and scoundrels: Folk narrative in Hindu religious teaching. Motilal Banarsidass Publ., 1992.
- Williams, George M. Handbook of Hindu mythology. Oxford University Press, USA, 2008.
- Dimmitt, Cornelia. Classical Hindu mythology: a reader in the Sanskrit Puranas. Temple University Press, 2012.
Representative Quotations from “A Clever Thief” by Nancy Bell and S.M. Mitra
| Quotation | Context | Theorization |
| “I’ll steal something valuable, and hide it away; and when everyone is being asked about the loss, the merchant will remember the man who can reveal secrets. Now what can I take that is sure to be missed? I know, I know!” | Hari-Sarman plans his deceitful scheme to gain attention and favor by stealing the merchant’s beloved mare. | This quotation illustrates Hari-Sarman’s cunning and manipulative nature. He resorts to theft as a means to elevate his status and exploit the merchant’s trust in his supposed ability to reveal secrets. It highlights the theme of deception and the consequences of greed. |
| “Your husband is right. I have treated him badly. Go and tell him I apologize, and will reward him well, if only he will come and help me.” | The merchant acknowledges his neglect of Hari-Sarman and offers him a reward to assist in finding the missing mare. | This quotation reflects the merchant’s realization of his mistreatment towards Hari-Sarman and his attempt to rectify the situation. It emphasizes the theme of redemption and forgiveness, as well as the power dynamics between the wealthy and the marginalized. |
| “What reward will you give me if I save you from the wrath of the king?” | Hari-Sarman bargaining with Jihva for her confession and offering protection from the king’s punishment. | This quotation demonstrates Hari-Sarman’s opportunistic nature and willingness to exploit others for personal gain. It also showcases the theme of moral ambiguity, as Hari-Sarman navigates ethical dilemmas to secure his own safety. |
| “Oh, frog, what trouble has come to you! That pitcher will be the death of you!” | Hari-Sarman’s muttered words upon seeing the pitcher with the frog during his trial. | This quotation symbolizes Hari-Sarman’s realization of his precarious situation and his reliance on luck to survive. It underscores the theme of fate and chance, as Hari-Sarman narrowly escapes exposure through an unintentional association with childhood memories. |
| “Before they came from the farm, their father had disappeared, and nobody ever found out what had become of him.” | The story’s conclusion, revealing Hari-Sarman’s disappearance and the mystery surrounding his fate. | This quotation encapsulates the unresolved nature of Hari-Sarman’s character and his enigmatic departure from the narrative. It prompts reflection on the consequences of deceit and the complexities of human behavior, leaving the reader to ponder the true nature of Hari-Sarman’s intentions and his ultimate destiny. |
