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What is revealed about Rikki-tikki's character based on his conversation with Chuchundra?

The conversation between Rikki-tikki and Chuchundra isn't long or deep, but I think it reveals two specific things about Rikki-tikki.


The first thing the conversation reveals about Rikki-tikki is that he is a picky predator. In reality, a mongoose hunts a variety of prey, but in Kipling's story, Rikki-tikki is only concerned about hunting snakes. I believe Rikki-tikki hunts snakes in the story because he sees them as a threat to himself and his friends. Chuchundra isn't a threat to Rikki-tikki, so Rikki-tikki thinks Chuchundra's fears are unwarranted.  



"Don't kill me," said Chuchundra, almost weeping. "Rikki-tikki, don't kill me!"


"Do you think a snake-killer kills muskrats?" said Rikki-tikki scornfully.



The second thing the conversation reveals about Rikki-tikki is that he is not afraid to use physical pain to extract information.



"I didn't—so you must tell me. Quick, Chuchundra, or I'll bite you!"



Rikki-tikki just finished admitting that he has no intention of killing Chuchundra; however, he isn't afraid of hurting Chuchundra to get the information that he needs. I believe this exchange shows that Rikki-tikki believes the end justifies the means.

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