‘The Tale of Melon City’ has been narrated in a verse form. This is a unique style which lends extra charm to an ancient tale. Find similar examples in your language. Share them in the class.

The king was a ‘just’ and ‘placid’ king, says the poet. Was he so?

Why did he proclaim an arch to be constructed?

Describe the mishap that took place as the king rode under the roof.

How did the incident affect the ‘placid’ king?

How did the chief of builders save himself ?

How did the workmen convince the king of their innocence? On who did they shift the responsibility?

Who did the masons blame for the mishap? And how did the architect defend himself?

Why did the king call the issue “a tricky thing”?

What did ‘the wisest man’ counsel?

How was the ridiculous act of hanging the arch avoided?