KSEEB Class 10 · English (1st language) · KTBS Revised 2024-25
Karna
Chapter summary, hard words and model exam answers for Karnataka Board Class 10 English.
Free online summary and notes (Karnataka Board Class 10 English). Read it here, no PDF download needed.
About the author
Mahabharata retold for SSLC - Karna, son of Kunti and the sun-god, raised as a charioteer's son, becomes a tragic hero of unmatched generosity and loyalty to Duryodhana.
Summary
Kunti bears Karna secretly; he is floated on a river and raised by charioteer Adhiratha - low birth label haunts him.
Kunti bears Karna secretly; he is floated on a river and raised by charioteer Adhiratha - low birth label haunts him.
At a tournament he rivals Arjuna but is mocked for supposed low caste; Duryodhana crowns him king of Anga, winning lifelong loyalty.
At a tournament he rivals Arjuna but is mocked for supposed low caste; Duryodhana crowns him king of Anga, winning lifelong loyalty.
Learning weapons by posing as a brahmin, he is cursed when truth emerges - wheels will stick in battle.
Learning weapons by posing as a brahmin, he is cursed when truth emerges - wheels will stick in battle.
Indra, disguised, begs his divine armour and earrings; Karna gives them knowing it will weaken him - epitome of charity.
Indra, disguised, begs his divine armour and earrings; Karna gives them knowing it will weaken him - epitome of charity.
Though knowing Pandavas are brothers, he keeps word to Duryodhana and fights on Kaurava side.
Though knowing Pandavas are brothers, he keeps word to Duryodhana and fights on Kaurava side.
Krishna reveals his birth; Karna dies weaponless when his chariot wheel sinks - readers remember his nobility and tragic fate.
Krishna reveals his birth; Karna dies weaponless when his chariot wheel sinks - readers remember his nobility and tragic fate.
Hard words & meanings
| dana | act of generous giving - Karna's defining virtue |
| kavach | divine armour Karna gives away |
| kundala | divine earrings given with armour |
| charioteer | driver of chariot - Karna's raised status |
| curse | supernatural penalty affecting future |
| loyalty | faithful allegiance to friend/king |
| tragic hero | hero whose virtues lead to downfall |
| Mahabharata | great Sanskrit epic of Bharata war |
Model exam answers, grammar & audio
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