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Class 10 English (Footprints Without Feet) Chapter 5 Footprints without Feet

This quiz on Chapter 5, Footprints Without Feet, from Class 10 English (Footprints Without Feet) is designed to evaluate your understanding of this intriguing and imaginative story by H.G. Wells. The quiz explores the adventures and misdeeds of Griffin, a scientist who discovers the formula for invisibility, and the consequences of his actions. It delves into themes such as the misuse of scientific discoveries, the consequences of isolation, and the moral dilemmas of unchecked power. Questions include multiple-choice, plot analysis, and interpretation-based queries, focusing on the story’s events, characters, and ethical undertones. Detailed explanations for incorrect answers will enhance your comprehension, and a certificate of achievement will be awarded upon successful completion. Perfect for revision and self-assessment, this quiz will deepen your appreciation of this thrilling and thought-provoking tale.

1 / 100

Sub Topic: About the Author: H.G. Wells

1. What genre is H.G. Wells most known for?

2 / 100

Sub Topic: About the Author: H.G. Wells

2. How is Griffin described in the story?

3 / 100

Sub Topic: About the Author: H.G. Wells

3. How does Griffin justify his unlawful actions after becoming invisible?

4 / 100

Sub Topic: Herbert George Wells (1866–1946) was a British writer

4. Which societal concern addressed by Herbert George Wells in his narratives significantly influenced public discourse during his era?

5 / 100

Sub Topic: Herbert George Wells (1866–1946) was a British writer

5. What is Herbert George Wells often referred to as, highlighting his contribution to literature?

6 / 100

Sub Topic: Herbert George Wells (1866–1946) was a British writer

6. How does Herbert George Wells’ approach to speculative fiction compare with that of Jules Verne, particularly regarding their methods of exploring scientific themes?

7 / 100

Sub Topic: Known as the “Father of Science Fiction”

7. Why did Griffin become a lawless person after gaining invisibility?

8 / 100

Sub Topic: Known as the “Father of Science Fiction”

8. Who is known as the “Father of Science Fiction” in the story?

9 / 100

Sub Topic: Known as the “Father of Science Fiction”

9. Considering the sequence of events leading to Griffin’s invisibility, what real-world issue might this sequence symbolize regarding the development and control of new technologies?

10 / 100

Sub Topic: Famous for books like The Time Machine, The War of the Worlds, The Invisible Man

10. (A) Griffin’s invisibility led to a significant moral decline in his character, illustrating the theme of power and its corruptive influence.
(R) The ability to become invisible allowed Griffin to act without consideration for societal norms or ethical consequences.

11 / 100

Sub Topic: Famous for books like The Time Machine, The War of the Worlds, The Invisible Man

11. What significant event occurs after Griffin arrives at Iping village?

12 / 100

Sub Topic: Famous for books like The Time Machine, The War of the Worlds, The Invisible Man

12. (A) Griffin discovered how to become invisible by altering the refractive index of his body.
(R) By becoming invisible, light could pass through Griffin’s body without being absorbed or reflected.

13 / 100

Sub Topic: His stories often explore scientific advancements and their consequences

13. From a scientific standpoint, what challenges would arise in successfully implementing an invisibility mechanism like Griffin’s in today’s technological landscape?

14 / 100

Sub Topic: His stories often explore scientific advancements and their consequences

14. How do scientific discoveries typically affect the plot development in stories focusing on such themes?

15 / 100

Sub Topic: His stories often explore scientific advancements and their consequences

15. Which trait of Griffin is highlighted by his desire to become invisible?

16 / 100

Sub Topic: Theme: Science and ethics, invisibility, misuse of knowledge

16. (A) Scientists must consider the potential misuse of their discoveries when advancing new technologies.
(R) Griffin’s development of invisibility technology led to his moral decline and destructive behavior.

17 / 100

Sub Topic: Theme: Science and ethics, invisibility, misuse of knowledge

17. How does Griffin’s pursuit of invisibility create an ethical dilemma?

18 / 100

Sub Topic: Theme: Science and ethics, invisibility, misuse of knowledge

18. What fundamental principle did Griffin violate when he made himself invisible?

19 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin, a brilliant scientist, discovers the secret of invisibility

19. Which ethical implication arises from Griffin’s use of scientific discovery for personal gain?

20 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin, a brilliant scientist, discovers the secret of invisibility

20. Following the sequence of events leading up to Griffin’s invisibility, infer what strategic decision Griffin might have made after achieving invisibility to avoid negative outcomes?

21 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin, a brilliant scientist, discovers the secret of invisibility

21. What trait of Griffin is shown when he steals clothes to cover his invisibility?

22 / 100

Sub Topic: He misuses his power, becoming a lawless wanderer

22. Analyze the sequence of events that transformed Griffin into a lawless wanderer. Which theme is emphasized through this transformation process?

23 / 100

Sub Topic: He misuses his power, becoming a lawless wanderer

23. (A) Griffin’s decision to use invisibility for personal gain ultimately leads to his isolation and downfall.
(R) The ethical considerations of scientific discoveries are often overlooked in the pursuit of personal ambitions.

24 / 100

Sub Topic: He misuses his power, becoming a lawless wanderer

24. Griffin’s decision to use invisibility led to a state of lawlessness and moral ambiguity. Which complex inference can be drawn about his ethical beliefs based on his actions?

25 / 100

Sub Topic: He burns his landlord’s house, steals clothes and money, and attacks innocent people

25. What characteristic of Griffin is most evident through his attacks on innocent people?

26 / 100

Sub Topic: He burns his landlord’s house, steals clothes and money, and attacks innocent people

26. (A) Griffin burns his landlord’s house.
(R) He was seeking revenge for being disliked.

27 / 100

Sub Topic: He burns his landlord’s house, steals clothes and money, and attacks innocent people

27. What ethical issue arises from Griffin’s use of scientific discoveries?

28 / 100

Sub Topic: Finally, he is chased by the police and escapes using his invisibility

28. Why does Griffin initially pursue the concept of invisibility according to the text?

29 / 100

Sub Topic: Finally, he is chased by the police and escapes using his invisibility

29. What immediate consequence does Griffin face as a result of his invisibility?

30 / 100

Sub Topic: Finally, he is chased by the police and escapes using his invisibility

30. Analyze Griffin’s decision to use his invisibility to escape from the police by considering both ethical implications and personal consequences. What could be a long-term effect of this choice on his psyche?

31 / 100

Sub Topic: Imagery (e.g., “Bare muddy footprints appeared mysteriously”)

31. How could one apply the concept of imagery, specifically “bare muddy footprints appeared mysteriously,” to develop a theme in a real-world mystery novel setting?

32 / 100

Sub Topic: Imagery (e.g., “Bare muddy footprints appeared mysteriously”)

32. Which phrase uses visual imagery effectively?

33 / 100

Sub Topic: Imagery (e.g., “Bare muddy footprints appeared mysteriously”)

33. Based on the imagery presented by the phrase “bare muddy footprints,” what can be inferred about the environmental setting?

34 / 100

Sub Topic: Symbolism (e.g., “Invisibility” = power without responsibility)

34. What broader consequences does Griffin’s use of invisibility have on the community around him?

35 / 100

Sub Topic: Symbolism (e.g., “Invisibility” = power without responsibility)

35. (A) Invisibility is used by Griffin to gain power without facing immediate consequences.
(R) This represents the symbolic meaning of invisibility as a means to escape responsibility.

36 / 100

Sub Topic: Symbolism (e.g., “Invisibility” = power without responsibility)

36. In the story, invisibility is often seen as a symbol of power without responsibility. How does Griffin’s behavior support this view?

37 / 100

Sub Topic: Irony (Griffin is a genius, but his intelligence leads him to crime)

37. What ethical dilemma arises from Griffin’s use of his scientific knowledge for personal gain, and how does this illustrate irony in his character development?

38 / 100

Sub Topic: Irony (Griffin is a genius, but his intelligence leads him to crime)

38. (A) Griffin, despite being a brilliant scientist, became a homeless wanderer.

(R) His intelligence led him to create an invisibility formula for selfish purposes, resulting in his isolation from society.

39 / 100

Sub Topic: Irony (Griffin is a genius, but his intelligence leads him to crime)

39. Which of the following events highlights the irony of Griffin’s intelligence leading him to crime?

40 / 100

Sub Topic: Suspense and mystery (How Griffin’s actions are revealed gradually)

40. What characteristic of Griffin contributes most to the suspense in the story?

41 / 100

Sub Topic: Suspense and mystery (How Griffin’s actions are revealed gradually)

41. (A) Griffin’s invisibility caused a significant psychological impact on the villagers, leading them to panic and hysteria.
(R) The ethical implications of his misuse of scientific discovery were evident in the fear and confusion it generated among people.

42 / 100

Sub Topic: Suspense and mystery (How Griffin’s actions are revealed gradually)

42. Which event primarily contributed to the suspense surrounding Griffin’s presence in the village?

43 / 100

Sub Topic: Misuse of scientific discovery

43. What trait best describes Griffin’s character as depicted in the text?

44 / 100

Sub Topic: Misuse of scientific discovery

44. Which theme is most prominently highlighted by Griffin’s misuse of invisibility?

45 / 100

Sub Topic: Misuse of scientific discovery

45. How do Griffin’s actions reflect a theme of unchecked ambition, and what are the consequences on society as depicted in the narrative?

46 / 100

Sub Topic: Ethical responsibility in science

46. What is one consequence of misusing scientific knowledge?

47 / 100

Sub Topic: Ethical responsibility in science

47. Imagine a scientist discovers a formula that can significantly enhance human intelligence but at the cost of reducing emotional capacity. Consider the ethical implications and philosophical inquiries needed to decide whether this discovery should be utilized. Which of the following considerations is most crucial from an ethical standpoint?

48 / 100

Sub Topic: Ethical responsibility in science

48. A new technology allows individuals to become invisible at will. Analyze the psychological impact and real-world consequences of such a technology on both the user and society. Which potential outcome is ethically most concerning?

49 / 100

Sub Topic: Crime and consequences

49. Why did Griffin choose to become invisible?

50 / 100

Sub Topic: Crime and consequences

50. (A) Griffin’s increasing lawlessness can be attributed to his invisibility which provided him with a sense of invincibility and lack of accountability.
(R) The ability to remain unseen leads individuals to abandon social norms and ethical behavior due to the absence of direct consequences.

51 / 100

Sub Topic: Crime and consequences

51. How did Griffin’s use of science and technology affect his behavior?

52 / 100

Sub Topic: Isolation and loneliness

52. What are the consequences of Griffin’s decision to use scientific discoveries for personal gain without considering ethical implications?

53 / 100

Sub Topic: Isolation and loneliness

53. Why does Griffin prefer solitude after becoming invisible?

54 / 100

Sub Topic: Isolation and loneliness

54. Suppose the concept of invisibility was realized in today’s world. Which real-world scenario would best exemplify the complex ethical challenges similar to those faced by Griffin?

55 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin discovers invisibility but burns down his landlord’s house

55. What method did Griffin use to make himself invisible?

56 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin discovers invisibility but burns down his landlord’s house

56. Considering the sequence of events that led to Griffin’s homelessness, how might he have altered his strategy post-discovery to avoid such dire consequences while still experimenting further safely?

57 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin discovers invisibility but burns down his landlord’s house

57. What motivated Griffin to set fire to his landlord’s house?

58 / 100

Sub Topic: He steals clothes and food from a London store

58. (A) Griffin stole food from a London store during mid-winter.
(R) He was hungry and needed something to eat.

59 / 100

Sub Topic: He steals clothes and food from a London store

59. Which character trait does Griffin exhibit by stealing clothes and food from the London store?

60 / 100

Sub Topic: He steals clothes and food from a London store

60. What was the consequence of Griffin choosing to stay in the London store after closing hours?

61 / 100

Sub Topic: He robs a theatrical shop for disguise

61. Based on Griffin’s methods, evaluate the effectiveness of his chosen disguise items in facilitating his escape and reflect on the underlying theme they convey.

62 / 100

Sub Topic: He robs a theatrical shop for disguise

62. How did the acquisition of items from the theatrical shop impact Griffin’s future actions regarding his invisibility?

63 / 100

Sub Topic: He robs a theatrical shop for disguise

63. What was the immediate effect on Griffin’s ability to remain undetected after robbing the theatrical shop?

64 / 100

Sub Topic: Arrives in Iping village, where Mrs. Hall suspects him

64. (A) Mrs. Hall suspects the scientist of witchcraft because her furniture behaves strangely.
(R) The strange behavior of the furniture in Mrs. Hall’s inn is due to an unexplained supernatural phenomenon.

65 / 100

Sub Topic: Arrives in Iping village, where Mrs. Hall suspects him

65. Why is Mrs. Hall suspicious of Griffin?

66 / 100

Sub Topic: Arrives in Iping village, where Mrs. Hall suspects him

66. How does the episode of the clergyman’s study being burgled reflect on the theme of trust and suspicion in Iping village?

67 / 100

Sub Topic: People discover his invisibility, and he escapes after a police chase

67. (A) Griffin’s lawless actions, such as setting fire to his landlord’s house, led to increased suspicion and fear among the townspeople.
(R) The societal impact of Griffin’s invisibility forced him into a life of crime, including theft and arson.

68 / 100

Sub Topic: People discover his invisibility, and he escapes after a police chase

68. What was one of the lawless actions committed by Griffin after he turned invisible?

69 / 100

Sub Topic: People discover his invisibility, and he escapes after a police chase

69. How did Griffin manage to escape from a police chase after being discovered?

70 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin: Brilliant but arrogant, selfish, and lawless

70. (A) Griffin’s scientific discovery of invisibility led him to commit acts without considering their moral implications.
(R) Being invisible, he believed that societal norms did not apply to him, leading to his lawless behavior.

71 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin: Brilliant but arrogant, selfish, and lawless

71. What consequence did Griffin face as a result of using his invisibility for lawless activities?

72 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin: Brilliant but arrogant, selfish, and lawless

72. How does Griffin’s intelligence create a paradox within his character when evaluated against the ethical implications of his invisibility discovery?

73 / 100

Sub Topic: Mrs. Hall: The curious innkeeper who suspects Griffin

73. (A) Mrs. Hall’s belief in spirits was influenced by the mysterious events at the inn.
(R) Griffin’s actions and behavior were consistent with someone hiding from authorities, not supernatural entities.

74 / 100

Sub Topic: Mrs. Hall: The curious innkeeper who suspects Griffin

74. Why does Griffin choose to stay at the inn in Iping despite his mysterious abilities?

75 / 100

Sub Topic: Mrs. Hall: The curious innkeeper who suspects Griffin

75. What characteristic of Griffin initially makes Mrs. Hall perceive him as eccentric?

76 / 100

Sub Topic: Mr. Jaffers: The brave constable who tries to arrest an invisible man

76. Who is Mr. Jaffers in the story?

77 / 100

Sub Topic: Mr. Jaffers: The brave constable who tries to arrest an invisible man

77. In what way can Griffin’s invisibility be seen as symbolic of broader social issues related to justice and accountability in law enforcement practices?

78 / 100

Sub Topic: Mr. Jaffers: The brave constable who tries to arrest an invisible man

78. (A) Mr. Jaffers faced a significant ethical dilemma in attempting to arrest the invisible man because the legal framework was inadequate for such an unprecedented situation.

(R) The concept of invisibility posed a direct challenge to existing law enforcement techniques and methods, necessitating a reevaluation of legal protocols.

79 / 100

Sub Topic: Psychological and Ethical Aspects

79. Which ethical dilemma does Griffin face with his invisibility?

80 / 100

Sub Topic: Psychological and Ethical Aspects

80. How did Griffin’s actions impact other characters in the story?

81 / 100

Sub Topic: Psychological and Ethical Aspects

81. If invisibility were scientifically possible today, what ethical dilemma might scientists face regarding its application in society?

82 / 100

Sub Topic: The power of invisibility corrupts Griffin

82. In the exploration of Griffin’s transformation into invisibility, which ethical challenge becomes most prominent as he begins to misuse his powers?

83 / 100

Sub Topic: The power of invisibility corrupts Griffin

83. Why did Griffin choose to set fire to his own house?

84 / 100

Sub Topic: The power of invisibility corrupts Griffin

84. What does Griffin use to achieve invisibility?

85 / 100

Sub Topic: He chooses crime over scientific progress

85. What action did Griffin take immediately after becoming invisible to further his criminal agenda?

86 / 100

Sub Topic: He chooses crime over scientific progress

86. Which characteristic of Griffin suggests he prefers crime over scientific progress?

87 / 100

Sub Topic: Raises the question: “Should science have moral limits?”

87. What scientific reason is given for Griffin’s invisibility in the story?

88 / 100

Sub Topic: Raises the question: “Should science have moral limits?”

88. What moral question does Griffin’s discovery of invisibility raise in the context of using scientific advancements?

89 / 100

Sub Topic: Symbolism in the Story

89. How does Griffin’s invisibility serve as both a symbol of his moral decay and a catalyst for the erosion of ethical boundaries within the society he interacts with?

90 / 100

Sub Topic: Symbolism in the Story

90. What does Griffin’s use of bandages and disguise symbolize in the story?

91 / 100

Sub Topic: Invisibility → Power, but also isolation and corruption

91. What did Griffin do to his landlord’s house?

92 / 100

Sub Topic: Invisibility → Power, but also isolation and corruption

92. If the technology to achieve invisibility were developed today, what might be some significant societal challenges that could arise from its widespread use?

93 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin’s Disappearance → The consequences of reckless scientific experiments

93. Who suffered due to Griffin’s theft after his transformation?

94 / 100

Sub Topic: Griffin’s Disappearance → The consequences of reckless scientific experiments

94. What philosophical dilemma arises from Griffin’s decision to use science for personal gain without considering ethical consequences, and how does it relate to current debates on artificial intelligence ethics?

95 / 100

Sub Topic: Science should be used responsibly

95. What does Griffin’s decision to remain invisible reveal about his moral character?

96 / 100

Sub Topic: Science should be used responsibly

96. What action did Griffin take after conducting his experiments on himself?

97 / 100

Sub Topic: Greed and power without ethics lead to downfall

97. How did Griffin’s invisibility lead to negative consequences for him in the story?

98 / 100

Sub Topic: Greed and power without ethics lead to downfall

98. What was Griffin’s primary reason for using his scientific discovery?

99 / 100

Sub Topic: One’s intelligence should be used for good, not crime

99. Considering Griffin’s life, how do personal choices based on intelligence affect one’s relationship with society?

100 / 100

Sub Topic: One’s intelligence should be used for good, not crime

100. How does the misuse of scientific discovery reflect on modern-day concerns regarding artificial intelligence?

Your score is

The average score is 93%

I. Chapter Summary

“Footprints without Feet” by Herbert George Wells (H.G. Wells) is a fascinating science fiction story that explores the dangers of unchecked ambition and the misuse of science. The story revolves around Griffin, a brilliant but selfish scientist who discovers a way to become invisible by altering his body’s refractive index. However, instead of using his invention for good, Griffin misuses it to commit crimes. He roams through London and Iping, stealing and causing chaos. His evil nature eventually leads to his downfall, reinforcing the idea that misuse of science and lack of morality can lead to destruction.

Themes: Misuse of science, consequences of immoral actions, isolation due to selfishness, invisibility as a metaphor for irresponsibility.

II. Key Concepts Covered

ConceptExplanation
Science and MoralityScience without ethics can be dangerous, as shown by Griffin’s destructive path.
Isolation and InvisibilityGriffin’s invisibility symbolizes his detachment from society and morality.
Consequences of SelfishnessGriffin’s choices lead to fear, distrust, and his eventual downfall.
Fiction vs. RealityThe story combines scientific imagination with moral lessons.
Metaphor of InvisibilityRepresents being unseen socially, emotionally, and ethically.

III. Important Questions

(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark)
  1. What is Griffin’s profession?
    • a) Doctor
    • b) Chemist
    • c) Scientist
    • d) Teacher
    • Answer: c) Scientist
  2. How did Griffin become invisible?
    • a) By magic
    • b) By using a special potion
    • c) By altering his body’s refractive index
    • d) By taking an invisibility pill
    • Answer: c) By altering his body’s refractive index
  3. Why did Griffin set fire to his landlord’s house?
    • a) He was insulted
    • b) He wanted revenge
    • c) He wanted to hide his discovery
    • d) He was being evicted
    • Answer: d) He was being evicted
      (PYQ – 2020)
  4. Where did Griffin go after setting the fire?
    • a) To Iping
    • b) To London streets
    • c) To the countryside
    • d) To his lab
    • Answer: b) To London streets

(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks)

  1. Why did Griffin become invisible? (PYQ – 2020)
  2. What shows that Griffin was a lawless person?
  3. How did the people of Iping react to Griffin’s behavior?
  4. Describe how Griffin misused his power of invisibility.

(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks)

  1. How does the story “Footprints without Feet” highlight the misuse of scientific discovery? (PYQ – 2019)
  2. Discuss the character of Griffin. How does his scientific genius become his curse?
  3. What is the symbolic significance of invisibility in the story?
  4. “With great power comes great responsibility.” Justify this statement with reference to Griffin’s actions.

(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills)

  1. If Griffin had used his discovery for the welfare of society, how could the story have been different?
  2. What moral lesson can modern scientists learn from Griffin’s downfall?

IV. Key Formulas/Concepts

While the chapter is fictional, the key literary and scientific ideas include:

  • Refraction: Bending of light (scientific basis behind Griffin’s invisibility).
  • Character Sketch: Griffin – brilliant, ambitious, but immoral.
  • Theme: Ethics in science, invisible power, alienation, and moral responsibility.
  • Irony: Griffin becomes invisible to escape society, but this only increases his problems.

V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026)

No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks (2025–26).

VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026)

Unit/ChapterEstimated MarksType of Questions Typically Asked
Footprints without Feet6–8 marks1 MCQ, 1 Short Answer, 1 Long Answer, 1 HOTS

VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

YearMarksQuestion
20195“Griffin misused his scientific discovery.” Discuss.
20202Why did Griffin set fire to his landlord’s house?
20213What does the story teach about the use of scientific inventions?

VIII. Real-World Application Examples

  • Ethics in Science: Real scientists must act responsibly, whether they work with AI, genetics, or technology.
  • Invisibility in Society: The story metaphorically addresses how some people feel “invisible” due to social exclusion.
  • Cybersecurity: Just like invisibility, anonymity online can be misused if not regulated.
  • Media and Entertainment: The story has inspired many characters (like in Invisible Man, Marvel movies).

IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success

Time Management

  • Allocate 15 minutes weekly to revise each prose chapter.
  • Create a timeline of events for better story recall.

Exam Preparation

  • Prepare theme-based essays: “Griffin’s misuse of science” or “Invisibility as a metaphor.”
  • Practice literary devices like irony, character foil, and symbolism.

Stress Management

  • Read aloud to boost comprehension.
  • Discuss modern-day ethical dilemmas in science to engage creatively with the text.

X. Career Guidance & Exploration

For Classes 9–10

Streams Overview:

  • Science: Learn responsibility with innovation (R&D, biotechnology, space science).
  • Commerce: Responsible innovation in business and startups.
  • Arts: Understanding characters and morality is crucial for psychology, philosophy, and literature.

Career Connections:

  • Ethical Scientist/Researcher
  • Science Fiction Author
  • Cybersecurity Expert
  • Innovator in Tech for Social Good

Relevant Exams:

  • NTSE
  • English and Science Olympiads
  • CBSE Reading and Innovation Challenges

XI. Important Notes

  •  Always check ncert.nic.in and cbseacademic.nic.in for the latest syllabus updates.
  •  Science and literature intersect in this story—understand both perspectives.
  •  Conceptual clarity + creative interpretation = high marks in board exams.