Themes: Courage

"Rikki-Tikki-Tavi" is a children's story designed to both entertain and teach the importance of virtuous behavior. One key virtue highlighted is courage, as demonstrated by the main character, Rikki-tikki-tavi. Despite being intimidated by the cobra's impressive size and strength, Rikki understands that he must eliminate Nag to safeguard the human family. His bravery triumphs over his fear, ultimately leading to the snake's defeat. As a result of...

Themes: Loyalty and Duty

Kipling was deeply shaped by the principles of honor and duty he learned at the military preparatory school he attended in his youth. In ‘‘Rikki-Tikki-Tavi,’’ loyalty emerges as a key theme. Rikki shows steadfast loyalty to the human family that takes him in, which compels him to defend them from the cobras, even at great personal risk. Moreover, Rikki's sense of duty to his mongoose lineage motivates him to confront Nag. Despite being "battered...

Themes: Progress and Work

During the Victorian era, characterized by the Industrial Revolution and the vast expansion of the British Empire, progress and hard work were highly valued. Kipling highlights the importance of diligence by comparing Rikki-tikki-tavi’s brave deeds with Darzee’s ‘‘unsensible’’ behavior. When Darzee, the ‘‘feather-brained’’ tailor-bird, starts singing a victory song after Nag's death, Rikki-tikki-tavi becomes irritated. He realizes Nagaina is...

Themes: British Imperialism

Kipling is famous for supporting British imperialism in his works. During the Victorian era, imperialism was not just about colonization; it also represented an ideology and mindset of assumed British superiority. This racial bias is evident even in the children's story "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi." The narrative emphasizes that the family living in the Indian bungalow is English and implies that Rikki, the mongoose, is lucky to have been saved by white...

Themes: Survival

Survival is the driving force behind the actions of every character, appearing to be the only rule that governs the fantasy world of the garden. Killing is not prohibited; instead, it is frequently depicted as a necessary means to achieve the vital goal of survival, whether the characters are heroes or villains.

This emphasis on survival reflects the principles of social Darwinism that were common in the late 1800s. Social Darwinism adapted...