The Great Stone Face – II – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

In The Great Stone Face – II, Ernest becomes the living embodiment of the mountain's prophecy. Our textbook shows how his life reflects the wisdom and kindness of the stone face.

• Ernest grows up admiring the stone face, shaping his thoughts and actions.
• Unlike others, he seeks truth and goodness, not fame or wealth.

• His humble teachings inspire villagers, mirroring the face's serene wisdom.
• The poet himself recognizes Ernest as the true likeness of the prophecy.

Through patience and virtue, Ernest naturally fulfills the legend, proving true greatness comes from character.

The poet in the story initially doubts the prophecy but realizes Ernest's worth after observing him closely. Our textbook highlights this turning point.

• Ernest's wise words during their conversation reveal deep understanding.
• The poet notices Ernest's face radiates kindness, resembling the stone face.

• Unlike Gathergold or Blood-and-Thunder, Ernest's goodness is genuine.
• The poet sees villagers transformed by Ernest's teachings.

The poet understands the prophecy wasn't about fame or power but inner nobility, which Ernest perfectly embodies.

The story contrasts two failed candidates with Ernest to show true greatness. Our textbook presents them as lessons in misplaced values.

• Gathergold represents wealth but dies unhappy, his riches meaningless.
• Blood-and-Thunder seeks military glory but lacks wisdom.

• Ernest, poor but wise, earns love through kindness.
• While others chase external success, Ernest cultivates inner goodness.

The comparison teaches that the prophecy valued character over material achievements, fulfilled only by Ernest.

The stone face serves as Ernest's lifelong teacher and moral compass. Our textbook describes how it shaped his worldview.

• From childhood, he studies its expression, learning patience and serenity.
• He interprets its gaze as approval for good deeds.

• Unlike others who seek the face's likeness, Ernest seeks its virtues.
• His daily observations become meditations on kindness.

The face's silent teachings mold Ernest into its living reflection, proving nature's power to inspire goodness.

The climax where Ernest is recognized teaches profound moral truths. Our textbook presents this as the story's central message.

• True greatness comes from character, not wealth or power.
• Ernest's humble life of service makes him worthy.

• The prophecy fulfills naturally through goodness, not force.
• Villagers realize they'd been seeing the likeness daily in Ernest's kindness.

The story shows that noble qualities, when lived genuinely, make one the fulfillment of highest ideals.

The villagers initially mistook Gathergold and Blood-and-Thunder for the Great Stone Face due to their fame and wealth.

• Gathergold was a wealthy merchant, and the villagers associated riches with greatness.
• Blood-and-Thunder was a war hero, making them believe strength matched the prophecy.

• Both men had outward success, which blinded the villagers to their lack of inner virtue.
• Our textbook shows how appearances deceived the villagers until Ernest revealed the truth.

The villagers learned that true greatness is not about wealth or power but character.

The prophecy about a man resembling the Great Stone Face shapes Ernest’s lifelong quest for truth and goodness.

• Ernest grows up believing the prophecy, which inspires him to seek wisdom.
• He studies nature and people, hoping to find the prophesied man.

• Instead of finding the man, Ernest himself becomes the embodiment of the prophecy.
• Our textbook highlights how his patience and humility fulfill the prophecy.

The prophecy guides Ernest to become the very greatness he sought.

Gathergold and Ernest represent contrasting ideals in The Great Stone Face – II.

• Gathergold is wealthy but selfish, while Ernest is poor yet generous.
• Gathergold’s riches fade, but Ernest’s wisdom grows with time.

• Gathergold seeks fame, whereas Ernest seeks truth and simplicity.
• Our textbook shows how Ernest’s virtues outlast Gathergold’s material success.

The story teaches that true greatness is measured by character, not wealth.

The story teaches that true greatness comes from inner virtue, not external achievements.

• Characters like Gathergold and Blood-and-Thunder fail to match the Great Stone Face despite their success.
• Ernest, though humble, embodies the stone face’s nobility through his wisdom.

• The villagers realize greatness is about kindness and truth, not wealth or power.
• Our textbook emphasizes Ernest’s journey as the ideal example.

The story inspires us to value goodness over material success.

In 'The Great Stone Face – II', Ernest hoped the poet would resemble the kind face of the mountain. Our textbook shows his eagerness to meet a wise man.

• Ernest was disappointed because the poet's face lacked the kindness of the stone face.
• He felt the poet was great but not the prophesied man.

• Later, Ernest realized wisdom comes from actions, not just words.
• The poet himself admitted Ernest was wiser.

Ernest understood true greatness lies in humility and goodness, not fame.

The prophecy said a man with the Great Stone Face's likeness would appear. Our textbook explains how villagers misunderstood it.

• Others expected a rich or famous man like Gathergold or the general.
• Ernest believed the prophecy meant kindness and wisdom.

• He saw the stone face as a symbol of goodness, not just looks.
• His interpretation matched the ending, where he became the prophesied man.

Ernest’s pure heart helped him understand the prophecy correctly.

The poet visited Ernest, expecting to find the prophesied man. Our textbook describes their meaningful conversation.

• The poet noticed Ernest’s wisdom and kindness, traits of the stone face.
• Ernest’s humble life reflected the mountain’s simplicity.

• Unlike others, Ernest lived truthfully, inspiring the poet.
• The poet admitted Ernest’s face showed the mountain’s spirit.

The poet realized Ernest embodied the prophecy through his virtues.

The story contrasts outer success with inner goodness. Our textbook shows Ernest as the real great man.

• Characters like Gathergold had wealth but lacked kindness.
• Ernest’s humility made him truly great.

• The poet and villagers learned greatness isn’t about fame.
• Ernest’s life proved goodness fulfills prophecies.

The story teaches that true greatness comes from a pure heart.

The story of The Great Stone Face – II beautifully illustrates the theme of patience and perseverance through Ernest’s unwavering faith in the prophecy and his lifelong dedication to becoming a wise and good man. Despite growing old and seeing many others being hailed as the likeness of the Great Stone Face, Ernest never loses hope or gives up on the prophecy.

For example, Ernest spends years studying the Great Stone Face, believing that one day a man with its likeness would appear. Even when others like Gathergold and Blood-and-Thunder are mistakenly thought to be the prophesied man, Ernest remains patient and continues his humble work. His perseverance is rewarded in the end when the poet recognizes that Ernest himself embodies the wisdom and goodness of the Great Stone Face.

This teaches us that true greatness comes not from immediate recognition but from consistent effort and moral integrity over time.

The poet’s realization in The Great Stone Face – II serves as the climax of the story, emphasizing its central message that true wisdom and goodness come from within and are reflected in one’s actions and character. The poet, who initially comes to meet Ernest out of curiosity, soon recognizes that Ernest himself is the fulfillment of the prophecy.

For instance, the poet observes how Ernest’s face radiates kindness and wisdom, mirroring the benevolent expression of the Great Stone Face. He also notices how Ernest’s words and deeds inspire those around him, proving that he is the long-awaited man. The poet exclaims, “Behold! Behold! Ernest is himself the likeness of the Great Stone Face!”, which underscores the story’s moral that external appearances or wealth do not define greatness.

This moment reinforces the idea that virtues like humility, patience, and integrity are the true markers of a noble life, as embodied by Ernest.

In The Great Stone Face – II, Ernest’s life is profoundly shaped by the Great Stone Face, a natural rock formation that symbolizes wisdom and goodness. From childhood, Ernest believed the prophecy that a man resembling the Great Stone Face would be the greatest and noblest of his time. This belief guided his actions and thoughts throughout his life.

Ernest grew up admiring the Great Stone Face, spending hours gazing at it and reflecting on its serene expression. This instilled in him values like humility, kindness, and wisdom. Unlike others who sought fame and wealth, Ernest remained simple and hardworking, embodying the virtues he saw in the stone face.

For example, when General Blood-and-Thunder and other famous men visited the valley, people thought they might be the prophesied man. However, Ernest, though hopeful, remained critical and observed that none truly matched the Great Stone Face’s nobility. His unwavering faith in the prophecy kept him grounded and morally upright.

Ultimately, the townspeople realized that Ernest himself had grown to resemble the Great Stone Face in wisdom and character, proving that true greatness comes from within. Thus, the Great Stone Face not only shaped Ernest’s beliefs but also made him the fulfillment of the prophecy.

In The Great Stone Face – II, the Great Stone Face serves as a powerful symbol of human excellence, representing wisdom, kindness, and moral integrity. The story uses this symbolism to convey a deeper message about true greatness.

The rock formation’s serene and noble appearance inspires Ernest to seek these qualities in himself and others. Unlike material success or fame, the Great Stone Face represents inner virtues. For instance, when wealthy or powerful men like General Blood-and-Thunder and Mr. Gathergold visit the valley, people initially believe they fulfill the prophecy. However, Ernest notices that none possess the genuine goodness reflected in the stone face.

The story teaches that true excellence is not about external achievements but about character and virtue. Ernest, though an ordinary man, embodies these ideals through his humility, hard work, and compassion. By the end, the townspeople recognize that Ernest himself has become the living embodiment of the Great Stone Face.

The lesson for readers is clear: greatness lies in moral strength and selfless actions, not in wealth or power. The Great Stone Face thus becomes a timeless symbol of the highest human aspirations.

In The Great Stone Face – II, Ernest’s life is profoundly shaped by the Great Stone Face, a natural rock formation that symbolizes wisdom, kindness, and greatness. From childhood, Ernest believed the prophecy that a man resembling the Great Stone Face would come to their valley and become the noblest person of his time. This belief instilled in him a sense of hope and moral guidance.

Ernest’s character was molded by the Great Stone Face in the following ways:

• Humility and Simplicity: Despite his wisdom, Ernest remained humble, living a simple life as a farmer and later as a preacher. He never sought fame or wealth, focusing instead on helping others.
• Wisdom and Reflection: He often gazed at the Great Stone Face, meditating on its serene expression, which helped him develop deep thoughts and a philosophical outlook.
• Kindness and Generosity: Inspired by the Great Stone Face, Ernest became known for his kindness, offering wisdom and comfort to those in need.

For example, when the poet visited him, Ernest recognized that the poet, though talented, did not truly embody the spirit of the Great Stone Face. This shows Ernest’s ability to discern true greatness beyond appearances.

In The Great Stone Face – II, Ernest’s understanding of the ideal of human excellence symbolized by the Great Stone Face evolves from a literal interpretation to a deeper, moral realization.

Initially, Ernest believed the prophecy that a man resembling the Great Stone Face would appear in the valley. He waited eagerly for this person, thinking greatness was tied to physical resemblance. However, as he grew older, he realized that true greatness was not about outward appearance but inner virtues.

His evolution can be summarized as follows:

• Childhood Hope: As a boy, Ernest believed the prophecy literally, expecting a heroic figure to arrive.
• Mature Reflection: Over time, he understood that greatness lies in wisdom, kindness, and selflessness, traits he himself embodied.
• Final Realization: At the end, the villagers recognize Ernest as the true likeness of the Great Stone Face, proving that greatness comes from one’s character.

The lesson for readers is that true excellence is not about fame or appearance but about living a life of virtue, humility, and service to others. The Great Stone Face serves as a metaphor for these timeless values.

In The Great Stone Face – II, the Great Stone Face serves as a moral and spiritual guide for Ernest, shaping his character and philosophy throughout his life. From childhood, Ernest was fascinated by the legend that a man resembling the Great Stone Face would bring wisdom and goodness to the valley. This belief instilled in him a sense of hope and purpose.

Ernest’s philosophy was rooted in simplicity, humility, and a deep connection with nature, much like the serene and noble expression of the Great Stone Face. He spent his days observing the mountains and meditating on their wisdom, which made him wise and kind-hearted. For example, even when others failed to recognize his wisdom, Ernest remained patient and continued to seek truth, just as the Great Stone Face stood unwavering over time.

Additionally, the Great Stone Face taught Ernest that true greatness lies in goodness and selflessness. When the poet visited him and realized that Ernest himself embodied the prophecy, it confirmed that Ernest’s lifelong devotion to the values represented by the Great Stone Face had made him the fulfillment of the legend.

Ernest and the poet in The Great Stone Face – II have contrasting perspectives on life and greatness, despite both being wise men.

• Ernest is a humble, hardworking man who finds wisdom in simplicity and nature. He believes greatness comes from inner goodness and selfless actions. His life is dedicated to quiet contemplation and helping others, mirroring the patience and nobility of the Great Stone Face.
• The poet, on the other hand, is a celebrated intellectual who initially believes greatness is linked to fame and artistic achievement. However, upon meeting Ernest, he realizes that true wisdom lies in humility and moral integrity, not just in talent or recognition.

While the poet admires Ernest’s wisdom, Ernest himself never seeks validation. The poet’s journey shows a transformation from valuing external success to appreciating inner virtue, whereas Ernest remains consistent in his values throughout. This contrast highlights the theme that true greatness is not about reputation but about character and kindness.

In The Great Stone Face – II, Ernest is depicted as a wise and humble man through his actions and interactions with others. His wisdom is evident in his deep understanding of human nature and his ability to see beyond appearances. For instance, when the poet visits him, Ernest recognizes that the poet, though famous, does not truly embody the spirit of the Great Stone Face. This shows his keen insight and discernment.

Ernest’s humility is highlighted when he refuses to accept the townspeople’s praise, believing himself unworthy of comparison to the Great Stone Face. Instead, he continues his simple life of hard work and contemplation. His humility is further emphasized when he realizes that the poet, despite his talents, lacks the noble qualities represented by the Stone Face. Ernest’s modesty and self-awareness make him a true embodiment of the virtues symbolized by the Great Stone Face.

The Great Stone Face represents an ideal human character marked by wisdom, kindness, and nobility. Ernest’s life closely aligns with this ideal as he embodies these virtues throughout the story. For example, Ernest spends his life in quiet contemplation and hard work, gaining wisdom through observation and reflection. His gentle nature and compassionate heart are evident when he interacts with others, always offering kindness and understanding.

Moreover, Ernest’s nobility is shown in his refusal to seek fame or wealth, despite the townspeople’s admiration. He remains true to his values, much like the unchanging and steadfast Great Stone Face. The climax of the story reveals that Ernest himself has become the living embodiment of the Stone Face’s ideal, proving that his life perfectly mirrors its virtues. This alignment is a testament to Ernest’s moral integrity and inner greatness.

In The Great Stone Face – II, Ernest is depicted as a man of wisdom and humility, which sets him apart from others in the valley. The author highlights these qualities through Ernest's actions and interactions. For instance, despite being a simple farmer, Ernest spends his evenings studying the Great Stone Face and reflecting on its meaning, showing his deep wisdom. His humility is evident when he does not seek fame or recognition, even when people begin to admire him.

Ernest's wisdom is further showcased when he listens to the poet's words but realizes that the poet, though eloquent, lacks the true spirit of the Great Stone Face. This shows Ernest's ability to discern truth beyond appearances. His humility is seen when he remains grounded, never boasting about his knowledge or insights.

The impact of Ernest's qualities on others is profound. People are drawn to him because of his genuine nature and wisdom. They begin to see him as a living embodiment of the Great Stone Face, inspiring them to seek truth and simplicity in their own lives. For example, the villagers start visiting him for advice, and even the poet acknowledges Ernest's superior understanding of life.

Thus, the author uses Ernest's character to teach the values of wisdom and humility, showing how these traits can positively influence a community.

The Great Stone Face is a powerful symbol in the story, representing ideals like truth, wisdom, and goodness. For Ernest, it becomes a guiding force in his life, shaping his understanding of human virtues. From childhood, Ernest is fascinated by the prophecy that a man resembling the Great Stone Face will appear in the valley, and this belief influences his actions and thoughts.

The stone face symbolizes the virtues Ernest aspires to embody. For example, he spends years observing it, learning patience and humility from its unchanging nature. The text mentions how Ernest often gazes at the face, feeling as though it communicates silent lessons about life. This shows how the symbol becomes a source of moral guidance for him.

Ernest's understanding of human virtues is deeply tied to the Great Stone Face. When others, like Mr. Gathergold or the general, are mistakenly believed to be the prophesied man, Ernest realizes that true virtue lies not in wealth or power but in inner goodness. The text describes how Ernest remains unimpressed by these men because they lack the qualities the stone face represents.

By the end of the story, Ernest himself becomes the fulfillment of the prophecy, proving that the Great Stone Face symbolized the virtues he lived by. The villagers recognize this when they see his resemblance to the face, not in physical features but in spirit. Thus, the stone face serves as both a symbol and a teacher for Ernest, shaping his life and values.

In The Great Stone Face – II, Ernest embodies the qualities of the great stone face through his wisdom, kindness, and humility. The prophecy foretold that a man with the likeness of the stone face would bring peace and goodness to the valley. Ernest, though not wealthy or famous, lives a life of simplicity and deep thought, gaining wisdom from nature and his observations.

His character reflects the stone face’s serene and noble expression because:

• He is wise—people seek his advice, showing his deep understanding of life.
• He is kind-hearted—he helps others without expecting anything in return.
• He is humble—unlike others who claimed to be the prophesied man, Ernest never boasted.

When the poet recognizes Ernest as the true fulfillment of the prophecy, it confirms that greatness lies in one’s character, not fame or wealth. Ernest’s life proves that true nobility comes from within, aligning perfectly with the stone face’s silent message of goodness and wisdom.

Ernest and the poet in The Great Stone Face – II represent two different perspectives on greatness. Ernest is a simple, humble man who gains wisdom through patience and observation, while the poet is a celebrated artist who initially believes fame and talent make one great.

Comparison:

• Both are deeply thoughtful—Ernest learns from nature, and the poet expresses ideas through verse.
• Both seek the meaning of the prophecy, though in different ways.

Contrast:

• Ernest is unrecognized by society, while the poet is widely admired.
• Ernest’s wisdom is innate, whereas the poet’s comes from artistic skill.

Their interaction reveals the theme of true greatness when the poet realizes Ernest is the prophesied man. This moment shows that greatness is not about external achievements but inner virtues like humility, wisdom, and kindness. The poet’s acknowledgment highlights that true greatness is recognized by those who understand its essence.