By smartcubs In “How I Taught My Grandmother to Read” by Sudha Murty, the grandmother, Avva, is a central character who exemplifies resilience, determination, and the thirst for knowledge. Here is a detailed character sketch of the grandmother:
Character Sketch of the Grandmother (Avva)
1. Illiterate but Knowledgeable Despite being illiterate, Avva is wise and knowledgeable about life. She understands the importance of education and the opportunities it can provide. Her lack of formal education doesn’t hinder her from performing her duties and managing her household efficiently.
2. Determined and Strong-Willed Avva displays immense determination and strong will when she decides to learn to read at an advanced age. Her resolve to become literate, inspired by her desire to read the stories she loves, showcases her inner strength and commitment. This determination is a significant aspect of her character and drives the narrative forward.
3. Humble and Teachable Avva’s humility is evident in her willingness to learn from her granddaughter. She does not let her age or status become a barrier to acquiring knowledge. Her openness to learning and her respect for her granddaughter’s knowledge highlight her humble nature.
4. Emotional and Sentimental Avva is deeply emotional and sentimental, particularly about the stories in the magazine “Karmaveera.” These stories hold significant meaning for her, and her inability to read them herself leads to a strong emotional response. Her attachment to the magazine and her heartfelt desire to be self-reliant in reading reveal her sentimental side.
5. Inspirational and Influential Through her journey of learning to read, Avva becomes an inspiration to others. Her story demonstrates that it is never too late to learn and that with determination, one can overcome any obstacle. Her character serves as a role model for both young and old, highlighting the value of perseverance and lifelong learning.
6. Loving and Nurturing Avva’s relationship with her granddaughter is filled with love and care. She nurtures and supports her, and in turn, her granddaughter respects and loves her deeply. This reciprocal relationship is a testament to Avva’s loving and nurturing nature, as she provides emotional support and receives it in her time of need.
Key Interactions
1. Relationship with Her Granddaughter The relationship between Avva and her granddaughter is central to the story. Her granddaughter’s willingness to teach her and Avva’s eagerness to learn underscore their mutual respect and love. This bond is a crucial element that drives the narrative and highlights the theme of intergenerational learning.
2. Interaction with the Magazine “Karmaveera” Avva’s attachment to “Karmaveera” magazine is a significant plot point. Her longing to read the stories on her own symbolizes her desire for independence and personal growth. This interaction with the magazine serves as a catalyst for her decision to learn to read.
In “How I Taught My Grandmother to Read,” Avva’s character embodies resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education. Her journey from illiteracy to literacy, driven by her love for stories and her determination to be self-reliant, serves as a powerful reminder of the value of lifelong learning and the importance of overcoming barriers to achieve one’s goals. Avva’s character is an inspiration, showcasing that it is never too late to learn and grow.