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

About the Author

Rose Fyleman (1877–1957) was an English poet and writer, best known for her fairy poems for children. She also wrote plays, edited a children’s magazine, and translated books from other languages.

Detailed Summary

A young prince wished to marry but was uncertain about choosing the right wife. He consulted his wise aunt, who gave him peculiar advice: “Choose a girl who laughs when others cry, and cries when others laugh.” Though puzzled, the prince trusted her wisdom. Soon, he was invited to a festival in another kingdom. During a picnic, a carriage full of ladies overturned into a muddy ditch. While all the ladies wept, one of them—Mellidora—laughed at the ridiculous sight, even though she herself was muddy, stung, and disheveled. Remembering his aunt’s words, the prince took notice of her.

Later, he met Mellidora and found her beautiful and kind, but he decided not to rush into a proposal, recalling that his aunt’s advice had two parts. The next day, an old woman carrying eggs and a cake for the king’s son fell in the busy courtyard. Her food was ruined, and while everyone laughed at her, Mellidora did not. Instead, she comforted the old woman, tried to gather the broken cake, and even wept with compassion. 

The prince, watching, saw both qualities his aunt had spoken of: Mellidora laughed when others cried (at the ditch) and cried when others laughed (at the old woman’s misfortune). Certain now, he asked Mellidora to marry him that very day. Since she loved him too, they wed soon and lived happily ever after.

Moral / Message

• The story “Mellidora” teaches us to enjoy life with imagination and confidence.
• It shows that even when things go wrong, we should not lose heart.
• Instead, we should laugh, stay cheerful, and make the best of every situation.
• Mellidora’s brave and playful spirit reminds us that it’s okay to be messy or silly sometimes—what matters most is to be happy and kind.

Character Sketch of Mellidora

Mellidora: A cheerful, kind, and compassionate woman who laughs in adversity and shows empathy, winning the prince’s heart.

Mellidora is a cheerful and lively little girl. She has a great imagination and always finds joy in simple things. She is not afraid of getting dirty or making mistakes. Instead of crying, she laughs even when she falls or gets stung by nettles. Mellidora has a kind heart, and her laughter brings happiness to others. She is brave, free-spirited, and makes even boring places exciting. She teaches us to enjoy life, be kind, and never be afraid to be ourselves.

Character Sketch of the Prince

The Prince: A thoughtful, patient, and kind-hearted young man who follows his aunt’s advice and carefully chooses Mellidora as his bride.

The Prince is kind, gentle, and patient. At first, he seems unsure about Mellidora’s playful behavior, but soon he enjoys her company. He is helping as he came to rescue the fallen ladies. He listens to her stories and even joins in the fun. He is polite and does not laugh at Mellidora when she falls or looks funny. Instead, he is curious and willing to learn from her. The Prince is a good-hearted boy who respects others and finds joy in simple friendship.

Vocabulary Table