📘 Class 10 English Chapter 6 – The Hundred Dresses – Part II Notes

Book: First Flight
Author: Eleanor Estes
Chapter: 6 – Part II
Board: CBSE Class 10 (2025)

✍️ Introduction

“The Hundred Dresses – Part II” is the continuation of the emotional story written by Eleanor Estes. This part focuses on guilt, realization, forgiveness, and the lessons learned by Peggy and Maddie after Wanda Petronski stops coming to school. It teaches readers about empathy, taking responsibility for one's actions, and the importance of standing up against injustice.

📖 Summary of the Chapter

The story picks up after Wanda Petronski wins the drawing contest with her hundred beautiful dress designs. Despite her talent, Wanda had already left school with her family due to the constant teasing and mocking she faced from her classmates, especially Peggy and Maddie.

Both girls begin to feel guilty for their behavior. Maddie, in particular, is deeply disturbed by her silence during the bullying. She feels ashamed and promises never to stay quiet if someone is being mistreated again. Peggy, on the other hand, tries to justify their actions but also regrets what happened.

They decide to write a letter to Wanda to express their appreciation for her drawings and to let her know she has won. However, their letter does not include an apology. A few days later, Miss Mason reads Wanda’s reply. In it, Wanda forgives the girls and tells them that she has drawn faces resembling Peggy and Maddie on two of the hundred dresses.

Through this subtle gesture, Wanda shows maturity, kindness, and forgiveness. The story ends with Maddie feeling both relieved and emotionally moved, realizing the true meaning of empathy and courage.

🧠 Theme and Message

  • Forgiveness and Kindness: Wanda chooses to forgive her bullies rather than hold a grudge.
  • Moral Growth: Maddie’s internal conflict leads to personal growth and a promise to never remain silent again.
  • Standing Up Against Wrong: The story emphasizes the importance of speaking up when someone is being mistreated.

👩‍🎓 Character Sketches

Wanda Petronski: Despite being bullied, she remains kind and forgiving. Her letter reflects her maturity and inner strength.

Maddie: She is sensitive and full of guilt. Her emotions reflect the transformation of a bystander into someone ready to stand up for others.

Peggy: Still somewhat unaware of the emotional damage caused, but she begins to understand the consequences of her actions.

📚 Word Meanings

Word Meaning
IntentlyWith strong focus and attention
DisappointedFeeling let down or unhappy
ForgivenessAct of pardoning someone
ShabbyIn poor condition; worn out
ConscienceInner sense of right and wrong

❓ Important Questions and Answers

  1. Q1. Why did Maddie and Peggy write a letter to Wanda?
    Ans: They wanted to praise her for the drawings and express their appreciation. Maddie also hoped to apologize indirectly.
  2. Q2. What did Wanda say in her letter to the girls?
    Ans: Wanda said she had drawn two dresses with faces that looked like Maddie and Peggy, showing she had forgiven them.
  3. Q3. How did Maddie feel after reading Wanda’s letter?
    Ans: She felt emotional and guilty, but also relieved. She made a personal promise to never stay silent in the face of injustice again.
  4. Q4. What is the central idea of the story?
    Ans: The story teaches that kindness and courage can bring about positive change and that it’s important to stand up for what’s right.

📥 Download PDF Notes

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📌 Tags: Class 10 English Notes, The Hundred Dresses Part 2, CBSE 2025, Eleanor Estes Summary, First Flight Chapter 6, ToppersNoteHub

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