The Last Leaf MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz is for Class 9 students studying English Language and Literature (Code 184). It covers the chapter “The Last Leaf” from the Moments Supplementary reader (Section C: Literature). Test your knowledge on the theme of hope/sacrifice, the plot, and key characters. After submitting, you can review your answers and download a PDF of your performance.
About The Last Leaf
“The Last Leaf” by O. Henry is a poignant short story about hope, sacrifice, and the power of art. It is set in Greenwich Village, New York, and revolves around two young artists, Sue and Johnsy, and their elderly neighbor, Behrman. The story beautifully illustrates how a selfless act can reignite the will to live.
Key Themes and Plot Points
The story explores several profound themes that are central to its narrative:
- Hope vs. Despair: The central conflict revolves around Johnsy’s loss of hope. She links her life to the falling leaves of an ivy vine outside her window, believing she will die when the last leaf falls. Sue’s efforts and Behrman’s ultimate sacrifice serve to restore this hope.
- Sacrifice: The most significant theme is sacrifice. Mr. Behrman, an old painter who has always dreamed of painting a masterpiece, sacrifices his own life to save Johnsy’s. He braves a harsh storm to paint a leaf on the wall, which gives Johnsy the hope to live, but he catches pneumonia and dies.
- Friendship and Compassion: Sue’s unwavering care for Johnsy demonstrates deep friendship. She tries everything to keep Johnsy’s spirits up, from cooking for her to trying to distract her from the falling leaves.
Plot Summary
Johnsy, a young artist, falls seriously ill with pneumonia. She loses her will to live and becomes convinced she will die when the last ivy leaf falls from the vine on the wall opposite her window. Her friend and roommate, Sue, tries to encourage her but fails. Sue confides in their downstairs neighbor, an old, unsuccessful painter named Behrman. That night, a severe storm rages. In the morning, Johnsy is surprised to see one leaf still clinging to the vine. This sight rekindles her will to live, and she begins to recover. Later, Sue learns that Mr. Behrman died of pneumonia. He had gone out in the storm to paint the leaf on the wall—his masterpiece—to save Johnsy’s life.
Character Analysis
| Character | Description | Role in the Story |
|---|---|---|
| Johnsy | A young artist who falls ill and loses hope. | The protagonist whose despair drives the plot. |
| Sue | Johnsy’s friend and fellow artist. | Represents hope, friendship, and care. She connects Johnsy and Behrman. |
| Mr. Behrman | An elderly painter living downstairs. | The story’s hero who makes the ultimate sacrifice, creating his masterpiece. |
Quick Revision Points
- The story is set in Greenwich Village.
- Johnsy suffered from pneumonia.
- She was counting the leaves of an ivy vine.
- Mr. Behrman was a painter who was over 60 years old.
- Behrman’s lifelong dream was to paint a masterpiece.
- The last leaf was not real; it was a painting by Behrman on the wall.
- Behrman’s masterpiece saved Johnsy’s life but cost him his own.
Extra Practice Questions
1. Why did Johnsy associate her death with the falling leaves?
Answer: Her illness made her pessimistic and fanciful. She had lost her will to live, and the dying vine outside her window became a morbid symbol of her own fading life.
2. Describe Behrman’s character before he painted the last leaf.
Answer: Behrman was portrayed as a fierce, elderly man who was a failure as an artist. He was often grumpy and mocked sentimentality, but deep down, he was kind and protective of Sue and Johnsy, seeing himself as their guardian.
3. What is the irony in the story?
Answer: The irony lies in Behrman’s masterpiece. He spent his life wanting to create a great work of art but never succeeded. His true masterpiece was a simple painting of a leaf, which he created not for fame or glory, but out of love, and it ultimately cost him his life while saving another’s.
4. How does Sue show her loyalty to Johnsy?
Answer: Sue shows her loyalty by nursing Johnsy tirelessly, trying to cheer her up with food and conversation, working to earn money for them, and seeking help from the doctor and Mr. Behrman.
5. What is the significance of the title “The Last Leaf”?
Answer: The title is significant because the last leaf is the central symbol of the story. It represents both despair (for Johnsy, its fall means death) and hope (its persistence inspires her to live). It is also the subject of Behrman’s masterpiece and the catalyst for the story’s climax and resolution.
