If you are preparing for the 2026 Bihar Board exams, then this chapter-wise guide of Bihar Board Class 12 English Question Answer for “A Pinch of Snuff” will help you score full marks. This blog includes important short questions, long questions, a summary, a theme, a character sketch, and exam-focused answers written in simple and scorable English.
About the Chapter: A Pinch of Snuff
“A Pinch of Snuff” by Manohar Malgaonkar is a humorous and satirical story. It revolves around Nanukaka, the narrator, and the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Pradhan. The entire chapter exposes the comic side of bureaucracy, human psychology, and manipulation through status and clever behavior.
Bihar Board Class 12 English Question Answer – A Pinch of Snuff
SHORT QUESTIONS (30–40 words)
1. Who is the main character of the story?
Answer:
The main character is A. J. Raffles, a gentleman thief who is clever, charming, and highly skilled at stealing without getting caught. He is also known for his intelligence and witty personality.
2. What is the role of Bunny in the story?
Answer:
Bunny Manders is Raffles’ loyal friend and companion. He acts as Raffles’ assistant and narrator. Bunny admires Raffles, helps him in his schemes, and often provides moral support, though he is sometimes cautious about crime.
3. What crime do Raffles and Bunny plan in this chapter?
Answer:
In this chapter, Raffles plans to steal valuable items from a gentleman’s house. The story focuses on the suspense and clever tactics he uses to accomplish his theft without being noticed.
4. How does Raffles behave while committing the crime?
Answer:
Raffles behaves with calm, confidence, and elegance. He is careful and strategic and avoids any mistakes. Even while committing theft, he maintains his gentlemanly appearance and charm, which helps him avoid suspicion.
5. What is the theme of the story?
Answer:
The theme of the story is wit, intelligence, and cleverness in achieving goals. It also explores morality, loyalty, and friendship. While the protagonist is a thief, the story emphasizes clever thinking and strategy over force.
LONG QUESTIONS: Bihar Board Class 12 English Question Answer
1. Describe the character of A. J. Raffles.
Answer:
A. J. Raffles is an unusual and fascinating character because he combines the qualities of a gentleman with the skills of a master thief. He is intelligent, observant, charming, and calm in every situation. Despite being a criminal, he follows a personal code of ethics and avoids unnecessary harm.
Raffles is extremely strategic; he studies every detail before committing a theft and always thinks several steps ahead. His loyalty toward his friend Bunny is another admirable trait. Raffles represents the blurred line between right and wrong, showing how intelligence and sophistication can make even a criminal appear heroic. His charm, courage, and cleverness make him one of the most memorable “gentleman thieves” in literature.
2. What is Bunny Manders’ role in Raffles’ adventures?
Answer:
Bunny Manders is Raffles’ loyal companion and also the narrator of the story. Though not as bold or intelligent as Raffles, Bunny deeply admires him and supports him in every adventure. He often gives advice, expresses caution, and sometimes acts as a lookout or distraction during their plans.
Through Bunny’s narration, readers gain insight into Raffles’ personality, intelligence, and methods. His loyalty adds emotional depth to the story, while his nervousness and moral doubts create suspense and realism. Without Bunny, Raffles’ adventures would lack perspective and human connection. Bunny’s presence balances Raffles’ daring nature and enriches the narrative.
3. How does Raffles execute his theft cleverly?
Answer:
Raffles executes his theft with careful planning, intelligence, and attention to detail. He studies the location, observes the habits of the people living there, and understands the security arrangements. His gentlemanly appearance helps him blend in so that no one suspects his true intentions.
Instead of using violence, he relies on timing, misdirection, and clever tricks to avoid being caught. Every move is calculated, and he never takes unnecessary risks. The story highlights mental agility and planning rather than force, showing how Raffles’ sharp mind allows him to complete thefts smoothly and successfully.
4. What role does suspense play in the story?
Answer:
Suspense plays a crucial role in the story as it keeps readers wondering whether Raffles will succeed or be caught. The tension builds through Raffles’ risky plans, unexpected events, and the possibility of failure. Bunny’s nervous reactions and moral hesitation intensify the suspense further.
Raffles’ unpredictable decisions and calm behavior create excitement throughout the narrative. This combination of danger, wit, and cleverness keeps readers fully engaged. Suspense not only adds thrill to the story but also highlights Raffles’ intelligence and mastery.
5. What is the moral of the story?
Answer:
The moral of “A Pinch of Snuff” is that intelligence, careful planning, and presence of mind can overcome challenges. The story also highlights loyalty and trust, reflected in Bunny’s unquestioning support for Raffles.
Although Raffles is a thief, the story focuses on strategy, observation, and cleverness rather than violence. It suggests that mental sharpness is more powerful than physical strength. The narrative encourages readers to think creatively, stay calm under pressure, and use wit to solve problems.
Conclusion: Bihar Board Class 12 English Question Answer
This comprehensive guide to Bihar Board Class 12 English Question Answer—A Pinch of Snuff is specifically crafted for 2026 exam preparation. If you revise these short and long answers properly, you can surely score full marks in the English board exam.
FAQs – Bihar Board Class 12 English Question Answer
1. Is A Pinch of Snuff important for the Bihar Board Class 12 English 2026 exam?
Yes, it is one of the most important chapters for exams.
2. Who wrote A Pinch of Snuff?
Manohar Malgaonkar wrote this humorous story.
3. What is the main theme of the story?
The theme includes satire, social influence, manipulation, and humor.
4. Why does Pradhan respect Nanukaka?
Because he mistakenly believes Nanukaka is a royal messenger.
5. How to score full marks on long questions?
Write clear answers, explain the theme, and include points from the story.