The Open Window by H. H. Munro (Saki) (1870-1916)

QUESTION 1
  
What are the moral values that you have learnt from the short story?

The moral values that I have learnt from this short story is firstly, sensitivity. We should aware of other's feeling and needs. As a hostess's staff we need to understand our guest's needs and make sure they 100% comfartable with hospitality given. In the short story, Vera and Mrs. Sappleton fail to realize Nuttel's restless condition. Vera should attentive towards Nuttel instead of frightening him because he is the guest and the newcomer. As for Mrs. Sappleton, she should have realizes that Nuttel is eager to change the topic of their conversation and find out the cause of his restlessness. She should give him her full attention .

Secondly, not to trust people so easily. We shouldn't be so naive when it comes to dealing with people. This value is very much connected to Nuttel's character because of judging from the fact that he had just entered an territory completely unknown to him before this, he should be more coutious and alert of the people around him as well as surrounding. Nuttel had fallen for Vera's word right from the beginning without having any second thought.

Thirdly, never assume things. The fact that Vera appeared to know her facts well, Nuttel should have taken the initiative to perhaps ask Mrs. Sappleton for affirmation. He should have just consumed every bit of Vera's words as she is still only a child.


QUESTION 2
   
Who is your favourite character in the short story. Provide reasons for your answer.

My favourite character in this short story is Vera. Who is storyteller without equal, who is quickly able to seize on details and weave convincing tales to horrific effect. And also who is sees in Framton Nuttel an object for one of her stories, as she is quick to establish that he knows nobody from the area and thus she is free to use her excellent wit and intelligence to create a table that will shock Mr. Framton Nuttel for her own amusement.

The reason that I like character is firstly, she has self - possessiveness. 

Secondly, she has self - confidence. She is sure enough for herself to begin a conversation with a perfect stranger and keep him entertained until the arrival of her aunt, Mrs. Sappleton.

Thirdly, intelligent and alert. Its notices that Nuttel is kind of man who could be easily made to believe that fantastic story she tells and capitalizes on that fact.

Fourthly, shrewd and cunning. The searching questions she ask quite casually to ensure that Nuttel knows nothing about her family or neighbourhood.

And lastly, Vera is creative and imaginative. Notice details of the routine that is followed when her uncle go out snipe shooting and then uses those details in her short story.



QUESTION 3
   
Provide an alternate ending to the short story.

The alternate ending of this story is The Heart Condition. Mr Nuttel was scared so much by the sight of these " ghosts " he fainted right there on the spot. Vera then made up a story that he said he had a heart condition that sometimes causes him to go unconcious, and the only to wake him up was to pour water over him. So that's waht they did. Vera thought it was hilarious but in the end Mr. Nuttel was awake he told them her little fib and for the rest of his stay at there. She had to wait on him hand and foot. Vera learned she isn't as clever as she thought she was.