That little Square Box - Class 8 MCQ

The main theme of "That Little Square Box" revolves around the consequences of jumping to conclusions based on fear. The narrator's initial panic and suspicion about the mysterious box lead to a misunderstanding that culminates in a humorous twist. This highlights how fear can cloud judgment and lead to incorrect assumptions about people and situations. It's a reminder to remain calm and seek the truth before reacting impulsively.

The two men observed by the narrator on the steamer are Flannigan and Muller. Their secretive behavior and handling of a small box create a sense of suspense and intrigue, leading the narrator to believe they might be involved in something dangerous. Their true purpose, however, is revealed to be innocent, demonstrating the story's theme of misunderstanding.

The narrator's anxiety is primarily triggered by the secretive behavior of Flannigan and Muller as they interact with the small wooden box. Their whispers about a "trigger" and "granules" lead him to believe they might be preparing a dangerous device, showcasing how paranoia can distort perceptions and amplify fears.

The narrator initially perceives the box as a potential bomb due to the secretive manner in which Flannigan and Muller handle it and their discussions about a "trigger" and "timer." This misinterpretation emphasizes the story's theme about how fear can lead to irrational assumptions and highlight the impact of imagination on reality.

The true purpose of the box is to serve as equipment for a pigeon racing event. Flannigan and Muller are not dangerous individuals, but rather enthusiasts trying to avoid the Captain's prohibition against racing on board. This revelation underscores the story's message about the dangers of misjudging situations based on fear.

The moral lesson conveyed in "That Little Square Box" is that fear can lead to misunderstanding and misjudgment. The narrator's initial fear of Flannigan and Muller clouded his ability to see the situation clearly, ultimately leading to a humorous conclusion. This teaches the importance of remaining calm and rational before jumping to conclusions.

By the end of the story, the narrator undergoes an emotional transformation from fear to relief and embarrassment. Initially convinced that he was in danger, he feels relieved when he discovers the box contains pigeons instead of a bomb. This shift illustrates the irony of the situation and the dangers of allowing fear to dictate one's perceptions.

The narrator ultimately decides to confront Flannigan and Muller when he believes the box poses a danger. Despite his fear and anxiety, he gathers the courage to shout at them, which leads to the unexpected revelation that the box is harmless. This action reflects his internal struggle between fear and the responsibility to protect others.

The secretive behavior of Flannigan and Muller adds significantly to the suspense of the story. Their hushed conversations and careful handling of the box create an atmosphere of mystery, compelling the narrator—and the reader—to question their intentions and heightening the tension until the story's surprising resolution.

The narrator is primarily responsible for the misunderstanding in the story. His fears and assumptions about Flannigan and Muller lead him to misinterpret their actions and intentions. This highlights how our perceptions, influenced by fear, can lead us to make incorrect judgments about others, ultimately serving as a key lesson in the narrative.