Kim · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Kim by Rudyard Kipling.
Chapter 1
Chapter I: The Wonder House and the Lama
Kim, a poor white boy who lives freely in Lahore, sits astride the cannon Zam-Zammah and encounters a Tibetan lama seeking the Wonder House (Lahore Museum). Kim guides him inside, where the lama is deeply moved by a statue of the Buddha. The chapter introduces Kim's background, his father's prophecies about a Red Bull and a Colonel, and his life as a street-wise 'Little Friend of all the World.'
Chapter 2
Chapter II: The Prophecy of the Red Bull
Kim and the lama travel southward, stopping at a village where the lama's wisdom and horoscope-casting impress the locals. The family priest interprets Kim's prophecy of a Red Bull on a green field, foretelling the arrival of two men and war. They proceed to Umballa by train, aided by a charitable woman, and the lama preaches about the Buddha and the River of healing.
Chapter 3
Chapter III
Kim and the lama continue their journey, encountering an old soldier who joins them briefly. Kim prophesies a war to the villagers, impressing them with his knowledge. They later meet a farmer who initially treats them harshly but becomes courteous after the lama's gentle rebuke. The lama shows his compassion by sparing a cobra, demonstrating his spiritual wisdom.
Chapter 4
On the Grand Trunk Road
Kim and the lama join the caravan of a wealthy old lady traveling south. Kim delights in the vibrant life of the Grand Trunk Road, observing diverse castes, pilgrims, and travelers. The lama remains absorbed in meditation, while Kim revels in the freedom and spectacle of the journey.
Chapter 5
The Lama's Grief and Kim's Destiny
Kim and the lama are confronted by Father Victor and Mr. Bennett, who reveal Kim's true identity as a white boy and the son of a soldier. The lama is devastated that his chela will be taken from him to be made a Sahib, and he blames himself for breaking the Way. Kim tries to comfort the lama and plans to escape, but the authorities insist he must go to school. The chapter explores the clash between Kim's dual identity and the lama's spiritual quest.
Chapter 6
Chapter VI
Kim struggles with his new life among the white soldiers and is taken to Father Victor, who reads him a letter from the lama offering to pay for his education at St. Xavier's. Mahbub Ali arrives and subtly mocks Kim in front of Colonel Creighton, who takes an interest in the boy. Kim attempts to escape the barracks but is thwarted by his conspicuous uniform; he instead hires a bazaar letter-writer to send a message.
Chapter 7
The Gates of Learning
Kim begins his education at St. Xavier's School in Lucknow, adapting to the life of a Sahib among a diverse group of Anglo-Indian and Eurasian boys. He learns the importance of maintaining his identity as a white boy while secretly yearning for the road and his lama. During the holidays, he uses his new skills to disguise himself and reconnects with Colonel Creighton, who reinforces the value of understanding native customs. Kim returns to school, but not before a brief detour to see a figure by the gate.
Chapter 8
The Road to Simla
Kim travels with Mahbub Ali from Umballa to Simla, enjoying the journey and learning about horse-trading and the ways of Sahibs. He overhears a plot to kill Mahbub and cleverly avoids it. Mahbub discusses the nature of faiths and Kim's bond with the lama, while Kim reveals he recognized one of the assassins from earlier events.
Chapter 9
IX
Kim undergoes an intense ten-day training period with Lurgan Sahib, learning observation, disguise, and espionage skills. He plays the Jewel Game, observes visitors, and practices impersonation. A Bengali Babu, revealed to be a spy with a price on his head, evaluates Kim. Kim also encounters a phonograph that speaks to him in the night, which he silences by stuffing his coat into it. Lurgan Sahib treats Kim as an equal on the Asiatic side and promises to report favorably to Colonel Creighton.
Chapter 10
The Great Game Intensifies
Kim, now sixteen, is drawn deeper into the Great Game under the tutelage of Mahbub Ali and Lurgan Sahib. He maps the city of Bikanir, prepares a written report, and receives a revolver and fine clothes from Mahbub. After being assigned as an assistant chain-man in the Canal Department, Kim reunites with Mahbub in Lucknow, visits Huneefa's house, and undertakes various espionage tasks, including stealing a ledger from a Commissariat sergeant. He also studies with Lurgan Sahib, learning native drugs, charms, and Koranic recitation.
Chapter 11
The Juggler's Art
Kim, disguised as a Saddhu, performs a healing on E.23 (disguised as a trader) in front of a Jat farmer and his child, using his training from Lurgan Sahib. After the encounter, Kim feels a profound sense of isolation and questions his own identity. He travels to Benares, meets a bairagi, and eventually reunites with the lama at the Temple of the Tirthankars. The Jains honor the lama's departure, and Kim secures food from the grateful Jat farmer before they resume their journey north.
Chapter 12
XII
Kim and the lama continue their journey, receiving hospitality from the old lady. The lama engages in philosophical discussions with Hurree Babu, who is disguised as a hakim. Kim learns more about the lama's past and his monastery in Bhotiyal. The chapter ends with Hurree Babu revealing his true identity to Kim and congratulating him on his work in Delhi.
Chapter 13
XIII
Hurree Babu, posing as a guide for two foreign spies (a Frenchman and a Russian), feigns drunkenness and disloyalty to extract information while secretly planning to steal their documents. Kim and the lama encounter the aftermath of the foreigners' failed expedition, and Kim secures the spies' kilta of maps and instruments, outwitting the hillmen who fear its power. The chapter highlights the cunning of the Great Game and the collapse of the foreign plot.
Chapter 14
The Woman of Shamlegh
Kim and the lama, weakened by mountain sickness, are aided by the Woman of Shamlegh who provides a litter and bearers for their journey. The lama reflects on his past violence and spiritual failings, while Kim receives a message from Hurree Babu about their pursuers. The lama resolves to leave the hills and continue his search, having gained enlightenment about the causes of evil.
Chapter 15
Chapter XV
Kim and the lama recuperate at the Sahiba's house. The lama confesses he has been draining Kim's strength, and the Sahiba takes charge of nursing Kim back to health through rest, drugs, and massage. Mahbub Ali visits, and the lama reveals he has found the River of the Arrow and insists Kim will be cleansed and become a teacher, while Mahbub worries about Kim's role in the Great Game.
Chapter 16
Endnotes
This chapter consists of endnotes providing translations and explanations for various terms and phrases used throughout the book, clarifying cultural, linguistic, and historical references.
