English Notes Chapter 2.2 “Two Fables” Class 7 Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – English Class 7

Chapter Overview

The chapter introduces fables, which are short stories with animal or inanimate characters.

Each fable has a moral or life lesson.

Two fables included in the chapter:

1. The Two Friends and the Bear
2. The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse

What is a Fable?

• A fable is a short story with a moral message.
• The characters are often animals or inanimate things that can talk.
• Fables teach us about human behavior and society.

Summary of Fables

1. The Two Friends and the Bear

• Story:
  • Two friends were traveling through a forest.
  • Suddenly, a bear rushed towards them.
  • One friend, who could climb trees, climbed up to save himself.
  • The other friend lay on the ground, pretending to be dead.
  • The bear sniffed him and walked away, as it does not attack dead animals.
  • When the bear left, the friend from the tree came down and laughed.
  • The friend on the ground replied, “The bear told me never to trust a friend who deserts you in danger.”
• Moral:
  • True friendship is tested in times of need.

2. The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse

• Story:
  • A Town Mouse visited his Country Mouse cousin.
  • The Country Mouse offered simple food like beans and bread.
  • The Town Mouse mocked the food and invited his cousin to the town for better food.
  • In the town, they enjoyed delicious food but were scared away by barking dogs.
  • The Country Mouse left, saying, “Better simple food in peace than luxury in fear.”
• Moral:
  • A peaceful life is better than a luxurious but fearful life.

Important Vocabulary

1. Slouched – Walked with bent shoulders.
2. Comrade – Friend or companion.
3. Rustic – Simple, rural, or village-like.
4. Fare – Food or meal.
5. Mastiffs – Large breed of dogs.

Comparison of Town and Country Life

• Country Life: Peaceful, simple, safe.
• Town Life: Luxurious, exciting, but often risky and stressful.

Moral Lessons

1. Never abandon your friends in difficult times.
2. A simple and peaceful life is better than a luxurious but dangerous one.