Corvus Chapter Notes | Gul Mohar Class 6: Book Solutions, Summaries & Worksheets PDF Download

About the Author

Satyajit Ray was an internationally acclaimed Bengali filmmaker, writer, illustrator, and music director. Born into a family of renowned writers, including his father Sukumar Ray and grandfather Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury, he created famous characters like the detective Feluda and scientist Professor Shonku.

Detailed Summary

The story revolves around Professor Shonku, a brilliant scientist, and his intelligent crow, Corvus. Shonku invents a machine that can transfer human knowledge and intelligence to birds. Using this device, he trains Corvus, who becomes remarkably clever. At a conference of ornithologists in Santiago, Corvus demonstrates his skills, impressing everyone with his intelligence and obedience.

Later, the magician Argus, who uses birds in his performances, visits Shonku to witness Corvus’s abilities. Corvus astounds Argus by switching off a lamp and locking his cage, showing that he understands both instructions and the bird’s own need for rest. Argus, greedy and ambitious, tries to persuade Shonku to give him Corvus, offering a large sum of money. Shonku refuses, treating Corvus as a pupil, friend, and like a son rather than a possession.

While Shonku is away at lunch, Argus secretly steals Corvus and his cage. Shonku, Rufus Grenfell, and the police track Argus, who is now in trouble after losing his spectacles and cannot control the situation. Meanwhile, Corvus cleverly escapes, leaving behind Argus’s spectacles, and returns safely to Shonku. The story highlights Corvus’s intelligence, loyalty, and problem-solving abilities, and emphasizes the strong bond of friendship between the scientist and his extraordinary bird.

Moral / Message

The story emphasizes the importance of trust, friendship, and respect for intelligence in all creatures. True loyalty cannot be bought, and knowledge coupled with kindness creates bonds stronger than wealth or power. The tale also inspires readers to value creativity, observation, and ingenuity.

Character Sketches

Professor Shonku – A brilliant and compassionate scientist who values intelligence and friendship. He treats Corvus as a student and friend rather than a possession, demonstrating patience, responsibility, and moral integrity.

Corvus – An exceptionally intelligent crow trained by Professor Shonku. Loyal, clever, and resourceful, he can understand human commands, solve problems, and protect himself and his friend in difficult situations.

Argus – A greedy and cunning magician who admires Corvus’s abilities and tries to manipulate situations to gain the bird. Despite his cleverness, his greed and overconfidence lead to failure.

Rufus Grenfell – Shonku’s friend who helps track Argus and ensures Corvus’s safety. Loyal and courageous, he provides practical support during the crisis.

Vocabulary Table