Pappachi’s Moth by Arundhati Roy: Ultimate Guide to Ace your Exams

Introduction

Pappachi’s Moth, an excerpt from Arundhati Roy’s celebrated novel The God of Small Things, is a poignant story of family, pride, and complex human emotions. Featured as Chapter 5 in the NCERT textbook Woven Words, it holds a crucial place in Class 10 and Class 11 Elective English syllabus.

The story not only provides a glimpse into the strained relationships within the Ipe family but also explores themes like insecurity, patriarchal dominance, and emotional repression. It introduces readers to Pappachi, a man whose life is overshadowed by a missed scientific discovery, and his struggles with resentment and control.

Understanding the layered narrative of this story is vital for students aiming to excel in their exams. This guide unpacks the story with summaries, analyses, and questions to make it easier for learners to grasp its deeper meanings.

Summary of Pappachi’s Moth

The story Pappachi’s Moth revolves around Pappachi (Rev. Ipe), a retired government entomologist, and his family. Pappachi’s character is marked by his disappointment over a missed scientific discovery – identifying a moth species that was later recognised but not attributed to him. This unfulfilled ambition becomes a source of bitterness that shapes his interactions with those around him.

Pappachi is depicted as a proud yet insecure man, whose frustration often manifests as cruelty towards his wife, Mammachi. His refusal to acknowledge Mammachi’s musical talent and his jealousy over her success add to the tension within the household. Despite his faults, Pappachi is also a tragic figure, defined by his failures and an inability to reconcile with his unfulfilled dreams.

The moth, which symbolises his loss and regret, becomes an enduring metaphor for the burdens of the past. The narrative captures the essence of familial dynamics and emotional complexities, providing a rich and thought-provoking read for students.

Plot Overview of Pappachi’s Moth

The plot of Pappachi’s Moth centres on the strained relationships within the Ipe family, particularly the patriarch Pappachi’s influence on their lives.

• Introduction to Pappachi: The story introduces Pappachi as a retired entomologist whose life is marred by a single regret — the discovery of a moth species that was not credited to him. This oversight deeply wounds his pride and becomes a constant source of bitterness.
• Rising Tensions in the Family: Pappachi’s frustration spills into his personal life. His jealousy and insecurity lead to abusive behaviour towards his wife, Mammachi, especially after her musical talents are recognised and appreciated by others. His refusal to support her or acknowledge her achievements highlights his oppressive and patriarchal attitude.
• Symbolism of the Moth: The moth, representing missed opportunities and unfulfilled ambitions, becomes a haunting presence in Pappachi’s life. It symbolises his failure to rise above his circumstances and his inability to find peace.
• Resolution: While the narrative does not offer a clear resolution, it vividly portrays the impact of Pappachi’s actions on his family. The story concludes with a sense of lingering tension, reflecting the emotional scars left by his behaviour and the unresolved nature of human conflicts.

The plot unfolds with subtlety and depth, exploring themes of pride, insecurity, and familial discord, making it a compelling and reflective piece for students.

Themes of Pappachi’s Moth

The story Pappachi’s Moth is rich with themes that explore human emotions, relationships, and societal dynamics. These themes resonate deeply, making the narrative relatable and thought-provoking for readers.

• Familial Relationships and Generational Conflicts
  At its core, the story examines the strained dynamics within the Ipe family. The relationships are marked by dominance, resentment, and unspoken tensions. Pappachi’s oppressive behaviour towards Mammachi reflects the challenges of patriarchal authority, while the family’s silence signifies the suppression of dissent.
• Pride and Insecurity
  Pappachi’s character is defined by his unyielding pride and deep-seated insecurities. His failure to gain recognition for discovering the moth becomes a metaphor for his life’s unfulfilled ambitions. This loss fuels his bitterness and influences his relationships, leading to cruelty and jealousy.
• Symbolism of the Moth
  The moth symbolises regret and missed opportunities. For Pappachi, it is a constant reminder of his unacknowledged achievement, embodying his failure to let go of the past. The moth also represents the burden of unresolved emotions, which shapes his identity and actions.
• Gender and Patriarchy
  The story subtly critiques patriarchal norms. Pappachi’s refusal to support Mammachi’s talents and his violent outbursts underscore the limitations placed on women in traditional setups. Mammachi’s perseverance despite these challenges reflects resilience in the face of oppression.
• Emotional Repression and its Consequences
  The narrative explores how suppressed emotions, whether Pappachi’s unspoken regret or the family’s silent suffering, lead to psychological scars. This theme underlines the importance of addressing inner conflicts to prevent them from festering.

Character Sketches of Pappachi’s Moth

The characters in Pappachi’s Moth are intricately crafted, each contributing to the emotional depth and complexity of the narrative.

Character Sketch of Pappachi (Rev. Ipe)

Pappachi, the central figure, is a retired government entomologist. His defining trait is his overwhelming bitterness over an uncredited scientific discovery. This regret shapes his personality, making him a proud, insecure, and often cruel individual. His inability to cope with his failure leads to abusive behaviour, particularly towards his wife. Pappachi’s jealousy of Mammachi’s musical talent and his domineering nature highlight his deep-seated insecurities. Despite his flaws, he is also a tragic character, weighed down by his inability to find peace with his past.

Character Sketch of Mammachi

Mammachi is Pappachi’s wife and a symbol of resilience in the face of oppression. She is talented, especially in music, but her abilities are stifled by her husband’s jealousy. Mammachi endures Pappachi’s abuse silently, embodying the struggles of women in patriarchal systems. Despite these challenges, her strength and perseverance shine through, making her an admirable figure.

Character Sketch of The Moth

Although not a person, the moth is a symbolic “character” in the story. It represents Pappachi’s missed opportunity, unfulfilled ambition, and the regrets that haunt him. The moth is a silent witness to his turmoil, serving as a constant reminder of his failure.

Other Characters

The story briefly mentions other family members, who, while not central, help portray the environment of emotional suppression and quiet endurance.

Explanation of the Story Pappachi’s Moth

The story Pappachi’s Moth is divided into sections, each carrying significant narrative weight. Below is a section-wise explanation to help students understand its nuances.

Explanation in English

• Introduction
  The story begins by introducing Pappachi, a retired entomologist, whose bitterness over a lost scientific opportunity casts a shadow over his life. His missed discovery of the moth becomes a metaphor for his regrets and failure to achieve recognition.
• Pappachi’s Personality and Actions
  Pappachi is depicted as a proud and patriarchal figure. His frustration with life’s setbacks, particularly the uncredited discovery, translates into abusive behaviour towards Mammachi. His jealousy of her talent highlights his insecurities and inability to celebrate others’ success.
• Symbolism of the Moth
  The moth symbolises unfulfilled ambitions and the weight of the past. It is a constant reminder of Pappachi’s failure, influencing his every action and shaping his identity as a tragic figure.
• Impact on the Family
  The story subtly reveals the emotional toll on the family. Mammachi’s silent endurance of Pappachi’s cruelty reflects societal norms, while the children’s subdued presence highlights the lingering effects of such an oppressive environment.

Explanation of Pappachi’s Moth in Hindi (हिंदी में व्याख्या)

• परिचय
  कहानी में पप्पाची का परिचय एक सेवानिवृत्त एंटोमोलॉजिस्ट के रूप में दिया गया है, जो अपनी असफलताओं और अप्राप्त मान्यता से ग्रस्त हैं। उनकी खोजी गई पतंगे की प्रजाति, जिसका श्रेय उन्हें नहीं मिला, उनके जीवन का एक दर्दनाक प्रतीक बन जाती है।
• पप्पाची का व्यक्तित्व और कार्य
  पप्पाची को एक अहंकारी और पितृसत्तात्मक व्यक्ति के रूप में चित्रित किया गया है। उनकी असफलता और ईर्ष्या उन्हें मम्माची पर अत्याचार करने के लिए प्रेरित करती है। यह उनके भीतर के असुरक्षा भाव को दर्शाता है।
• पतंगे का प्रतीकात्मक महत्व
  पतंगा उनकी अधूरी महत्वाकांक्षा और बीते समय के बोझ का प्रतीक है। यह पप्पाची के चरित्र को एक त्रासदीपूर्ण दृष्टि प्रदान करता है।
• परिवार पर प्रभाव
  कहानी में परिवार पर पड़ने वाले भावनात्मक प्रभाव को सूक्ष्म रूप से दर्शाया गया है। मम्माची का धैर्य और बच्चों की खामोशी परिवार के तनावपूर्ण माहौल को उजागर करती है।

Explanation of Pappachi’s Moth in Urdu (اردو میں وضاحت)

Textbook Questions and Answers of Pappachi’s Moth

UNDERSTANDING THE TEXT

1. Comment on the relationship shared by Mammachi and Pappachi.

Mammachi and Pappachi share a strained and abusive relationship. Pappachi’s insecurities and frustration manifest in physical and emotional abuse. Despite this, Mammachi endures her husband’s behaviour silently, reflecting societal norms that suppress women’s voices and agency.

2. How does Mammachi stand out as an independent and resilient woman in the text?

Mammachi shows resilience through her ability to rise above Pappachi’s abuse. She channels her energy into productive activities, excelling in pickle-making. Her entrepreneurial success, despite Pappachi’s attempts to undermine her, highlights her quiet strength and independence.

3. Why does John Ipe consider retirement to be a dishonour?

John Ipe equates retirement with loss of status and identity. Having been a senior Imperial Entomologist, he views his professional role as his primary source of pride. Retirement forces him to confront his diminished relevance, fuelling bitterness.

4. What was the underlying reason for John Ipe’s disgust with the world?

John Ipe’s disgust stems from his unrecognised discovery of the moth, which bruises his ego. This professional failure, coupled with his rigid patriarchal mindset, leads him to view the world as unjust and amplifies his bitterness.

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TALKING ABOUT THE TEXT

1. Chacko’s firmness in dealing with the irrational behaviour of his father.

Chacko exhibits strength and decisiveness in handling Pappachi’s irrational outbursts. His firmness protects Mammachi and the family from Pappachi’s abusive tendencies. This also signals Chacko’s rejection of his father’s patriarchal dominance, paving the way for a healthier family dynamic.

2. The contrast between the outward elegance of a person and his private behaviour.

Pappachi presents himself as a refined and dignified man in public, but his private behaviour reveals a cruel, abusive nature. This stark contrast underscores the theme of duplicity, highlighting how appearances can often mask true character.

3. Approval from the outside world and approval within the family.

Pappachi’s obsession with societal approval contrasts with his lack of regard for familial harmony. While he yearns for external validation, he neglects the well-being of his family, showing how misplaced priorities can lead to personal and relational decay.

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APPRECIATION

1. How does the author succeed in raising crucial social issues not through open criticism but through subtle suggestion?

Arundhati Roy employs nuanced storytelling to critique patriarchy, toxic relationships, and societal expectations. Pappachi’s abuse highlights the oppression women face in patriarchal systems. Mammachi’s resilience subtly underscores the strength of women in adversity. The moth symbolises missed recognition and the bitterness it spawns. Instead of overt criticism, Roy uses these elements to provoke thought, leaving the reader to interpret and reflect on the issues.

2. Within a few pages the author has packed the important events in the lives of John Ipe and his wife. Discuss how conciseness and economy of expression can achieve effective portrayal of entire lives.

Roy’s concise narrative captures John Ipe’s fall from grace and Mammachi’s silent strength with precision. By focusing on pivotal moments—the moth’s discovery, Pappachi’s abuse, and Mammachi’s success—the author portrays decades of their lives. Every detail is purposeful, adding depth to the characters and advancing the plot. This economy of expression maintains engagement while delivering a profound exploration of human emotions and societal dynamics.

3. Identify instances of ironical comment in the story.

Irony permeates Pappachi’s Moth. Pappachi’s celebrated career as an entomologist contrasts with his unacknowledged discovery, turning his pride into a lifelong regret. His public elegance and private cruelty expose the hypocrisy in societal perceptions. Mammachi’s pickle-making, mocked by Pappachi, becomes a testament to her resilience and success. These ironies enrich the narrative, critiquing societal norms and individual failings.

Important Questions from Pappachi’s Moth by Arundhati Roy

Factual Questions

Q1. Who was Pappachi, and what was his profession? (Pappachi’s Moth)
Pappachi, or Rev. Ipe, was a retired government entomologist. He dedicated his career to studying insects and made significant contributions, including the discovery of a moth species, although he was never credited for it.

Q2. Why was Pappachi bitter about the moth he discovered? (Pappachi’s Moth)
Pappachi was bitter because the moth he discovered was not recognised as a new species during his career. Later, when it was acknowledged, the credit went to someone else, leaving Pappachi feeling unappreciated and resentful.

Q3. How did Pappachi treat Mammachi? Give specific examples. (Pappachi’s Moth)
Pappachi treated Mammachi poorly, often expressing his frustration through verbal and physical abuse. He was jealous of her musical talent and once destroyed her violin to suppress her achievements, revealing his controlling and insecure nature.

Q4. What did Pappachi’s behaviour reveal about his personality? (Pappachi’s Moth)
Pappachi’s behaviour revealed that he was proud, insecure, and deeply resentful. His inability to cope with personal failures made him bitter, and he projected this bitterness onto others, especially Mammachi, to assert his dominance.

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Analytical Questions

Q1. How does the missed recognition for the moth shape Pappachi’s character? (Pappachi’s Moth)
The lack of recognition for discovering the moth defines Pappachi’s life. It becomes the root of his bitterness and pride, leading to frustration. This unfulfilled ambition makes him resentful, controlling, and emotionally abusive, overshadowing his other achievements.

Q2. Discuss the symbolic significance of the moth in the story. (Pappachi’s Moth)
The moth symbolises missed opportunities and unfulfilled ambitions. For Pappachi, it serves as a haunting reminder of his professional failure and represents the emotional burden of regret, shaping his identity and interactions with others.

Q3. In what ways does Pappachi’s pride and insecurity affect his relationships? (Pappachi’s Moth)
Pappachi’s pride prevents him from celebrating others’ achievements, while his insecurity leads to controlling behaviour. His jealousy of Mammachi’s talent fuels abuse, and his inability to communicate effectively strains familial relationships, creating an oppressive atmosphere.

Q4. How does the story highlight the struggles of women in patriarchal setups through Mammachi’s character? (Pappachi’s Moth)
The story portrays Mammachi as a victim of patriarchal oppression. Despite her talents, she endures abuse from Pappachi, who stifles her achievements. Her silent perseverance reflects the societal challenges women face, emphasising resilience amidst adversity.

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Interpretative Questions

Q1. What does the story suggest about the impact of unfulfilled ambitions on a person’s life?
The story highlights how unfulfilled ambitions can consume a person. Pappachi’s inability to accept his professional failure leads to bitterness and emotional turmoil, which damages his relationships and prevents him from finding peace or happiness.

Q2. Why do you think the author chose a moth as the central metaphor?
The moth, being fragile yet significant, mirrors Pappachi’s fragile ego and unacknowledged achievements. Its fleeting nature underscores the impermanence of success and how clinging to past regrets can overshadow the present.

Q3. How does silence play a role in the family’s dynamics in Pappachi’s Moth?
Silence is a recurring motif that highlights repression within the Ipe family. Mammachi endures abuse quietly, while others suppress their emotions, creating an environment of unspoken tension. This silence amplifies the emotional scars left by Pappachi’s actions.

Q4. What lesson can we learn from Pappachi’s inability to let go of his past?
The story teaches that clinging to past failures can lead to bitterness and destroy personal relationships. Letting go and moving forward is crucial to finding peace, as unresolved regrets can consume a person’s identity and happiness.

Extract-based Questions from Pappachi’s Moth

The following extract-based questions will help students understand the story deeply by focusing on specific passages.

Extract 1

“Pappachi had been an Imperial Entomologist, a post he valued more for the recognition it gave him than for the work itself. He had once discovered a moth, which he believed was a new species, but his discovery was dismissed by his superiors.”

Q1. Who is Pappachi, and what does the passage tell us about his character?
Pappachi was an Imperial Entomologist who sought recognition more than fulfilment from his work. This passage highlights his desire for validation and the bitterness he harboured due to the dismissal of his discovery.

Q2. How does Pappachi’s discovery of the moth influence the story?
The moth symbolises Pappachi’s failure and serves as a recurring reminder of his unfulfilled ambitions. It profoundly affects his behaviour and relationships, shaping the story’s central conflict.

Q3. What does the phrase “valued more for the recognition it gave him” reveal about Pappachi?
This phrase reveals Pappachi’s insecurity and need for external validation. His self-worth is tied to societal recognition rather than personal satisfaction.

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Extract 2

“He was bitter about the moth till the day he died. It tormented him like an unspoken accusation.”

Q1. What does the moth represent in this extract?
The moth represents Pappachi’s regrets and unfulfilled aspirations. It acts as a constant reminder of his professional failure, embodying the emotional burden he carried until his death.

Q2. How does this passage highlight the theme of unfulfilled ambitions?
The passage underscores how unfulfilled ambitions can haunt an individual, leaving them trapped in bitterness and self-pity. Pappachi’s inability to overcome his failure illustrates the destructive power of regret.

Q3. How does the word “tormented” affect the tone of the extract?
The word “tormented” conveys a sense of relentless emotional suffering, adding to the story’s somber tone. It reflects Pappachi’s internal struggle and inability to find peace.

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Extract 3

“Mammachi never raised her voice. She endured Pappachi’s rages with a quiet dignity, as though protesting would diminish her in some way.”

Q1. How does the author portray Mammachi in this passage?
Mammachi is portrayed as a resilient and dignified woman. Despite enduring Pappachi’s abuse, she maintains her composure, reflecting the strength required to survive in a patriarchal setting.

Q2. What does this extract suggest about gender roles in the story?
The extract highlights the submissive role women often played in patriarchal societies. Mammachi’s silence reflects the societal expectation for women to endure oppression without protest.

Q3. What does the phrase “quiet dignity” suggest about Mammachi’s character?
The phrase suggests that Mammachi found strength in her silence, choosing endurance over confrontation. It indicates her ability to maintain her inner strength despite external hardships.

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Critical Analysis of Pappachi’s Moth

The short story Pappachi’s Moth by Arundhati Roy delves deeply into themes of human vulnerability, the impact of patriarchy, and the intersection of personal and collective histories. Its richly layered narrative reveals how individual insecurities and unfulfilled ambitions can ripple through families, leaving long-lasting effects.

Symbolism of the Moth

The moth, central to the story, symbolises Pappachi’s failure and unresolved regrets. As an entomologist, his inability to receive recognition for discovering a new species becomes the crux of his bitterness. The moth represents his unacknowledged brilliance and the emotional scars left by societal disregard. More than just a symbol, it serves as a haunting presence, shaping Pappachi’s personality and actions.

Thematic Exploration

1. Patriarchy and Abuse
   Pappachi embodies toxic masculinity, asserting dominance over Mammachi through emotional and physical abuse. His frustration from professional failure translates into oppressive control at home, showcasing how personal setbacks can manifest as toxic behaviour in intimate relationships.
2. Unfulfilled Ambitions
   The narrative critiques how society’s failure to acknowledge individuals’ contributions can lead to bitterness and self-destruction. Pappachi’s inability to reconcile with his unfulfilled aspirations becomes a tragic commentary on how external validation is often tied to self-worth.
3. Family Dynamics
   The intergenerational trauma in the story underscores how one person’s bitterness can affect an entire family. Mammachi’s resilience and silence in the face of abuse reflect the strength required to survive such circumstances, while also hinting at the societal conditioning that compels women to endure rather than confront.

Narrative Style and Structure

Arundhati Roy’s narrative style blends vivid imagery with emotional depth. Her ability to weave Pappachi’s personal failures into the broader social context enhances the story’s complexity. The non-linear storytelling mirrors the fragmented memories of trauma, adding an additional layer of realism to the narrative.

Mammachi: A Counterpoint to Pappachi

Mammachi’s character provides a striking contrast to Pappachi. While he succumbs to bitterness, she embodies quiet strength. Her ability to continue life with dignity despite his abuse showcases resilience and perseverance, subtly challenging the patriarchal norms of her time.

Impact on the Reader

The story leaves a profound impact, urging readers to reflect on the cyclical nature of trauma and the human need for recognition. The vivid portrayal of flawed characters ensures that Pappachi is seen not merely as a villain but as a deeply complex individual shaped by societal and personal failures.

Relevance and Legacy

Pappachi’s Moth resonates with contemporary audiences by addressing universal themes of identity, ambition, and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of unresolved regrets and the enduring strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversities.

This critical analysis highlights the depth of Roy’s storytelling, emphasising the narrative’s ability to provoke thought and elicit empathy for even the most flawed characters.

Key Vocabulary and Word Meanings of Pappachi’s Moth

Word/Phrase	Meaning (English)	Meaning (Hindi)	Meaning (Urdu)
Entomologist	A scientist who studies insects	कीट विज्ञानी (Keet Vigyani)	کیڑوں کے ماہر (Keeron Ke Maahir)
Frustration	Feeling of anger or annoyance due to failure or challenges	निराशा (Niraasha)	مایوسی (Mayoosi)
Symbol	Something that represents or stands for something else	प्रतीक (Prateek)	علامت (Alamat)
Toxic Masculinity	Harmful norms and behaviours associated with male dominance	विषैली पुरुषत्व (Vishaili Purushtva)	زہریلی مردانگی (Zahreelee Mardangi)
Trauma	Deep emotional pain caused by a distressing experience	आघात (Aaghaat)	صدمہ (Sadma)
Validation	Recognition or acceptance as being correct or important	मान्यता (Maanyata)	توثیق (Tasdeeq)
Resilience	The ability to recover quickly from difficulties	लचीलापन (Lacheelapan)	لچک (Lachak)
Bitterness	Intense anger or sadness due to past events	कड़वाहट (Kadvaahat)	کڑواہٹ (Karwaahat)
Recognition	Acknowledgement of someone’s contribution or effort	पहचान (Pehchaan)	شناخت (Shanakht)
Generational Trauma	Emotional wounds passed from one generation to the next	पीढ़ीगत आघात (Peedigat Aaghaat)	نسلی صدمہ (Nasli Sadma)
Abuse	Misuse of power to harm others, often physically or mentally	दुर्व्यवहार (Durvyavhaar)	زیادتی (Zayadti)
Patriarchy	A system where men hold primary power	पितृसत्ता (Pitrusatta)	پدرشاہی (Padrshahi)
Haunting	Unpleasant memories or feelings that linger	भूतिया (Bhootia)	پریشان کن (Pareshan Kun)
Subtle	Not obvious, but clever or indirect	सूक्ष्म (Sookshma)	لطیف (Lateef)
Fragmented	Broken into small or incomplete parts	खंडित (Khandit)	ٹکڑے ٹکڑے (Tukray Tukray)

Conclusion

Recap of Major Takeaways

• Pappachi’s Moth explores the emotional and psychological toll of unacknowledged achievements, toxic relationships, and patriarchal structures.
• The story uses the moth as a powerful symbol of regret and bitterness, highlighting how unfulfilled ambitions can disrupt personal and familial harmony.
• It portrays the resilience of Mammachi, juxtaposed against Pappachi’s oppressive behaviour, offering insights into the dynamics of abuse and survival.
• Themes of trauma, societal expectations, and intergenerational impact form the backbone of this poignant narrative.

Tips for Better Understanding and Answering Exam Questions

1. Read the Text Closely: Pay attention to the key symbols, themes, and character dynamics. Take note of Pappachi’s and Mammachi’s contrasting personalities.
2. Understand the Context: Think about the societal norms and personal struggles that influence the characters’ actions.
3. Use Examples: When answering questions, provide examples from the story to support your points, such as Pappachi’s discovery of the moth or his abusive behaviour.
4. Structure Your Answers: Begin with an introduction, expand with critical points in the body, and conclude with a reflective summary.
5. Practice Writing: Answer a variety of questions—extract-based, analytical, and character-driven. This will improve clarity and confidence.

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FAQs and Additional Resources

Common Doubts Addressed

Q1. What does the moth represent in the story?
The moth represents Pappachi’s failure and bitterness. It symbolises his unacknowledged discovery and serves as a metaphor for the unresolved regrets that haunt him.

Q2. Why is Pappachi bitter despite his accomplishments?
Pappachi is bitter because his discovery of the moth went unrecognised. This professional failure fuels his frustration, which manifests in his abusive behaviour at home.

Q3. How does Mammachi cope with Pappachi’s abuse?
Mammachi copes with her husband’s abuse by focusing on her own resilience and surviving silently, reflecting the societal norms that often suppress women’s voices.

Q4. What is the role of patriarchy in the story?
The story critiques patriarchy by showcasing how it perpetuates dominance and silences women, as seen in Pappachi’s treatment of Mammachi and the lack of societal support for her struggles.

Recommended Readings for Deeper Insights

1. The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy – For a complete understanding of the characters and broader themes.
2. Articles on Trauma and Patriarchy – Explore how societal norms influence familial relationships.
3. Literary Criticism on Arundhati Roy’s Works – Gain insights into her narrative style and recurring motifs.
4. Symbolism in Literature – Helps in analysing how symbols like the moth deepen the story’s meaning.