The Jungle Book: Analyzing an Excerpt by Rudyard Kipling

What is happening in the scene based on the imagery in this excerpt?

Because he is so cute and vulnerable, Mother Wolf knows that Mowgli will easily be accepted by the Pack.

Mother Wolf understands the Law of the Jungle and is willing to accept whatever decision the Pack makes about Mowgli.

Although Mowgli is playing quite happily, Mother Wolf is making the decision to fight the entire wolf pack if they decide to give Mowgli to Shere Khan.

Mother Wolf is very worried about the vulnerable man cub, who is blissfully unaware that he is in danger of being killed by the wolves or the tiger.

Answer:

The scene in The Jungle Book shows Mother Wolf anxiously presenting Mowgli to the wolf pack while Mowgli plays, unaware of any danger.

Based on the imagery in the excerpt from The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling, the scene captures a moment of tension and contrasting emotions between Mother Wolf and Mowgli. Mother Wolf, with her "neck-bristles lifted," indicates a sense of protectiveness and worry as she presents Mowgli to the wolf pack. On the other hand, Mowgli remains blissfully unaware of the potential danger, playing and laughing innocently with pebbles.

This scene highlights the complex dynamics between the characters and sets the stage for potential conflicts and decisions to be made regarding Mowgli's fate. Mother Wolf's protective instincts and Mowgli's vulnerability create a compelling narrative that draws readers into the story.

As readers delve deeper into The Jungle Book, they will uncover more about the challenges and adventures that await Mowgli in the jungle, making this excerpt a crucial moment that foreshadows the events to come.

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