The Snake and the Mirror Summary – A Tale of Fear and Vanity
The Snake and the Mirror Summary – A Tale of Fear and Vanity
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"The Snake and the Mirror" is a captivating short story by renowned Indian author Vaikom Muhammad Basheer. The story blends humor, fear, and irony as it narrates the encounter between a vain doctor and a deadly snake. This The Snake and the Mirror summary will explore the key events, themes, and moral lessons from the story.
Plot Summary of The Snake and the Mirror
The story follows a young, unmarried homeopathic doctor who lives in a small rented room. One hot summer night, as he admires himself in the mirror, a snake suddenly lands on his shoulder. Frozen in fear, he remains completely still as the snake coils around his arm and stares at its reflection in the mirror.
The doctor, terrified, makes a silent vow to donate all his money to charity if he survives. Eventually, the snake slithers away, leaving him unharmed. The next day, he moves out of the room, realizing how close he came to death.
Key Themes in The Snake and the Mirror
- Vanity and Self-Admiration
The doctor is obsessed with his appearance, constantly checking himself in the mirror. His vanity is highlighted when he imagines marrying a rich woman who will appreciate his looks. The snake’s arrival shatters his self-absorption, forcing him to confront reality.
- Fear and Human Instincts
The sudden appearance of the snake triggers a primal fear in the doctor. His immediate reaction—remaining still—reflects the human instinct for survival. The incident serves as a humbling experience, making him realize the fragility of life.
- Irony and Humor
Despite the tension, the story has a humorous tone. The doctor’s exaggerated vanity and his dramatic vow to give away all his wealth add irony. The fact that the snake is more interested in its own reflection than attacking him makes the situation absurd yet amusing.
Moral Lesson of The Snake and the Mirror
The story teaches that vanity and overconfidence can be dangerous. The doctor’s self-obsession blinds him to real dangers, and the snake’s presence serves as a wake-up call. It also highlights how fear can bring sudden clarity, making people reconsider their priorities.
Conclusion
This The Snake and the Mirror summary captures the essence of Basheer’s witty and thought-provoking tale. Through humor and suspense, the story delivers a powerful message about human nature, fear, and the consequences of vanity. It remains a timeless piece that resonates with readers even today.
By reflecting on this story, we learn the importance of humility and the unpredictability of life—lessons as relevant now as they were when the story was first written. Report this page