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Footprints without Feet Summary Class 10 English Footprints without Feet Chapter 5

Key Points of the Story

  • Griffin: Scientist discovers invisibility using rare drugs.
  • Becomes homeless after setting fire to his house and fleeing naked.
  • Leaves muddy footprints in London, attracting attention.
  • Hides in store, steals clothes, food, and becomes visible temporarily.
  • Disguises with bandages, glasses, and robs a theatrical shop.
  • Moves to Iping village, stays at an inn, raises suspicion.
  • Clergyman’s money stolen; furniture behaves oddly.
  • Reveals invisibility by removing disguises during confrontation.
  • Escapes after chaotic encounter with constable and villagers.
  • Themes: misuse of science, isolation, and fear of the unknown.

Detailed Summary

Once upon a time in a big city called London, two boys were surprised to see muddy footprints of bare feet on the steps of a house. They wondered why a barefooted man was in the city. Soon, they witnessed fresh footprints appearing mysteriously and followed them as they descended down the street, gradually fading away. The boys were curious until the footprints vanished completely. The reason behind this magical occurrence was simple. Footprints without Feet Summary Class 10 English Footprints without Feet Chapter 5

They were unknowingly following a scientist named Griffin who had discovered how to make his body transparent. By swallowing special drugs, Griffin turned invisible yet remained solid. However, he was not a lawful person and had set a house on fire in revenge, which led to his homelessness and invisibility. Griffin's adventures continued as he roamed London in the winter cold, struggling without clothes. To survive, he sneaked into a store after closing time, clothed himself, and feasted on food he found. Unfortunately, he overslept and had to escape without his newfound clothes, becoming invisible again. Desperate for clothes and a disguise, Griffin plundered a theatrical shop, emerging with bandages, glasses, a false nose, whiskers, and a hat to cover his headless appearance. 

Fleeing the city, he arrived at an inn in Iping, where his strange presence stirred gossip among the locals. The situation escalated when money went missing from a clergyman's home, leading to suspicions falling on Griffin. The climax arrived when Mrs. Hall, the innkeeper's wife, confronted Griffin about his strange activities, prompting him to reveal his invisibility by shedding his disguises, shocking everyone present. The village constable, Mr. Jaffers, attempted to arrest the invisible Griffin, resulting in a chaotic struggle where Griffin fought back unseen, eventually knocking out the constable and escaping into the night. 

Footprints without Feet Summary Class 10 English Footprints without Feet Chapter 5

Despite the villagers' attempts to capture him, Griffin remained invisible and elusive, causing confusion and chaos wherever he went. The tale of the headless, invisible man became a mystery and a source of fear in the quiet village of Iping. And so, the invisible Griffin's escapades continued, leaving a trail of bewilderment and disbelief in his wake as he navigated a world that could not see him but felt the impact of his presence.

Theme/ Message

Theme:

The story highlights invisibility, isolation, and the misuse of science. Griffin’s invisibility leads to chaos, his solitude reflects loneliness, and his unethical actions show the dangers of unchecked ambition.

Message: 

The story underscores the dangers of isolation, showing how it leads to Griffin's destructive behavior. It emphasizes the ethical responsibilities associated with scientific advancements and highlights how actions have far-reaching consequences, as seen through Griffin's choices.

Difficult Words

  • Transparent - see-through, clear 
  • Lawless - without following the law 
  • Revenge - to harm someone in return for being harmed 
  • Eject - to force someone to leave 
  • Homeless - without a home 
  • Assistant - a person who helps someone else 
  • Eccentric - unconventional, strange 
  • Hysterics - a state of extreme emotion 
  • Mysterious - difficult to understand or explain 
  • Constable - a police officer 
  • Magistrate - a judge 
  • Unconscious - not awake or aware 
  • Consequences - results or effects of actions 
  • Misuse - using something in the wrong way 
  • Loneliness - feeling alone and isolated
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FAQs on Footprints without Feet Summary Class 10 English Footprints without Feet Chapter 5

1. What is the main plot of the story "Footprints without Feet"?
Ans. The story "Footprints without Feet" revolves around the character of a thief named Griffin, who discovers a way to make himself invisible. The plot follows his journey as he uses his invisibility for criminal activities, leading to a series of events that ultimately result in his downfall. The narrative highlights the consequences of his actions and the moral implications of misusing one's abilities.
2. What is the significance of the title "Footprints without Feet"?
Ans. The title "Footprints without Feet" signifies the invisible presence of Griffin, as he leaves behind footprints without having visible feet. This metaphorically represents the idea of a person who can go unnoticed and the impact of one's actions, even when they are not physically seen. It emphasizes the themes of invisibility and the consequences of one's deeds.
3. What are the main themes explored in "Footprints without Feet"?
Ans. The main themes of "Footprints without Feet" include the misuse of power, the consequences of crime, and the moral dilemmas associated with invisibility. The story serves as a cautionary tale about how one's abilities can lead to destructive behavior if used irresponsibly. It also addresses the idea of identity and the desire for acceptance.
4. How does Griffin's character develop throughout the story?
Ans. Griffin's character starts as a clever and ambitious scientist who discovers the secret of invisibility. However, as the story progresses, he becomes increasingly reckless and desperate, resorting to theft and violence. His development highlights a transformation from a brilliant mind to a criminal, showcasing how power can corrupt an individual when misused.
5. What lesson can readers learn from "Footprints without Feet"?
Ans. Readers can learn that the pursuit of power and invisibility can lead to negative consequences if not handled responsibly. The story teaches that one's actions, even when hidden, have repercussions and that ethical behavior is essential. It encourages the idea that true strength lies in using one's abilities for good rather than for selfish or harmful purposes.
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