Notes Class 7 Chapter 2.3 English Balbharati Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – Balbharati English Class 7

Abdul Becomes a Courtier

Overview

This chapter tells the inspiring story of Abdul, a poor but determined boy who dreams of gaining knowledge and rising in life. Despite facing challenges like poverty and unexpected responsibilities, Abdul uses his intelligence, patience, and hard work to achieve his goal of becoming a courtier in the Emperor’s court.

Characters

1. Abdul: A poor, ambitious student who loves books and learning; he is smart, resourceful, and patient.
2. Father: A schoolmaster who supports Abdul’s dreams but struggles financially.
3. Rich Merchant: A kind employer who hires Abdul as a clerk and rewards his good work.
4. Emperor: The ruler who tests Abdul’s abilities and eventually makes him a courtier.
5. Minister: A helper who reports to the Emperor about Abdul’s work.
6. Chorus: A group that narrates Abdul’s feelings and progress throughout the story.

Summary of Events

Abdul’s Dream of Knowledge

• Abdul asks his father for money to buy books, as he wants to study and rise in life.
• His father explains that money is tight and books are expensive, but promises to borrow some from his school.
• However, he returns empty-handed, leaving Abdul sad but determined.

Working for the Merchant

• Abdul decides to work for a rich merchant to earn a living and access books.
• He offers to serve as a clerk and asks to be paid based on his work’s worth.
• The merchant is impressed by Abdul’s honesty and hard work, allowing him to read his books as a reward.
• Abdul learns philosophy, astronomy, Arabic, and Persian, becoming a scholar.

The Royal Murgikhana (Poultry)

• Abdul’s friend brings news that the Emperor has appointed him to manage the Royal Murgikhana (poultry).
• Though surprised and disappointed (as he is a scholar, not a poultry keeper), Abdul accepts the role.
• He feeds the hens with kitchen scraps and waste, keeping them healthy without spending the Emperor’s money.
• The Emperor is amazed at Abdul’s cleverness and calls him to explain.

Keeper of the Library

• Impressed by Abdul’s resourcefulness, the Emperor makes him in charge of the royal library.
• Abdul notices that expensive silk, velvet, and brocade bags (used for royal requests) are thrown away after use.
• He asks the royal tailors to turn these discarded bags into beautiful book jackets at no cost.
• The Emperor is stunned by the luxurious jackets and asks how Abdul did it without spending money.

Becoming a Courtier

• Abdul explains his idea of reusing waste fabric, proving his intelligence and creativity.
• The Emperor, recognizing Abdul’s merit, finally appoints him as a courtier-a high-ranking position.
• The chorus celebrates Abdul’s success, highlighting how his wits, patience, and determination helped him achieve his dream.

Key Events and Abdul’s Solutions

Problem: No money for books.

• Solution: Abdul works for a merchant to access books instead of buying them.

Problem: Appointed as poultry keeper, not a scholar’s job.

• Solution: Uses kitchen waste to feed hens, saving money and proving his skills.

Problem: Expensive book jackets needed for the library.

• Solution: Reuses discarded royal bags, turning waste into valuable jackets.

Themes

1. Determination: Abdul never gives up on his dream despite setbacks.
2. Resourcefulness: He finds clever ways to solve problems without money.
3. Patience: Abdul accepts every role and works hard, waiting for his chance.
4. Value of Knowledge: His love for learning helps him succeed in life.
5. Waste Not, Want Not: Abdul shows how to use resources wisely.

Moral of the Story

Hard work, intelligence, and patience can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals, no matter how small you start.

Important Quotes

1. “To knowledge and erudition I aspire.” – Abdul’s dream.
2. “Waste not, want not, that’s my drive.” – Abdul’s philosophy.
3. “Wits, brains, and perseverance helped Abdul achieve his aim.” – Chorus on his success.

Vocabulary

1. Erudition: Deep knowledge or learning.
2. Manuscripts: Handwritten books.
3. Dejected: Feeling sad or disappointed.
4. Sagacious: Wise and clever.
5. Brocade: A rich fabric with patterns.
6. Perseverance: Never giving up, even when things are hard.
7. Courtier: A person who serves in a royal court.