KSEEB Class 9 · English (2nd language) · KTBS Revised 2024-25
Nobleness Enkindleth Nobleness
Chapter summary, hard words and model exam answers for Karnataka Board Class 9 English.
Free online summary and notes (Karnataka Board Class 9 English). Read it here, no PDF download needed.
About the author
James Russell Lowell (1819–1891), American Romantic poet. Lowell's line "Nobleness enkindleth nobleness" argues that one virtuous act sparks another in a chain of moral inspiration.
Summary
Lowell proposes that nobility in one person ignites nobility in another - moral fire is contagious.
Lowell proposes that nobility in one person ignites nobility in another - moral fire is contagious.
Words alone cannot kindle character; witnessing courage, honesty, or sacrifice moves hearts.
Words alone cannot kindle character; witnessing courage, honesty, or sacrifice moves hearts.
The poem often read beside stories like the Bishop's mercy - one gift creates a giver.
The poem often read beside stories like the Bishop's mercy - one gift creates a giver.
A single fair judge, kind teacher, or brave patriot can inspire a community to higher conduct.
A single fair judge, kind teacher, or brave patriot can inspire a community to higher conduct.
Those who act nobly accept that others will watch and imitate - leadership by moral flame.
Those who act nobly accept that others will watch and imitate - leadership by moral flame.
The poem closes optimistically: evil spreads, but nobleness enkindled can spread faster when witnessed.
The poem closes optimistically: evil spreads, but nobleness enkindled can spread faster when witnessed.
Hard words & meanings
| enkindle | to ignite or inspire |
| nobleness | the quality of being noble in character |
| virtue | behaviour showing high moral standards |
| contagious | passed from person to person |
| exemplar | a person worthy of imitation |
| ripple | a small action causing wider consequences |
| imitation | following another's example |
| optimism | confidence that good will grow |
| inspiration | being filled with urge to do something good |
Model exam answers, grammar & audio
You have read the summary. The board-ready model answers, grammar notes, one-touch audio and writing practice for this chapter are part of Lipi.
Sign in to unlockSee it, understand it, hear it read aloud, then write the exam answer with confidence, for a fraction of a tutor cost.