In a dilapidated hut on the outskirts of a dense forest, a husband and wife found themselves in a state of despair. The birth of their thirteenth child had pushed their already strained resources to the brink, leaving them with little food and money. Seeking a solution, the father ventured into the woods, lost in thought.
As he wandered through the trees, the man stumbled upon two shadowy figures. One resembled his God, while the other took the form of the Devil. Both offered to ease his burden by becoming the Godfather to his newborn child. However, the man declined, unwilling to entrust his son to those who judged human life. He continued deeper into the forest, where he encountered a third figure.
In the darkest part of the woods, the father met Death himself, who offered his services as Godfather. Death promised to return when the child came of age, bringing happiness and prosperity. Understanding that all are equal in Death’s eyes, the father accepted the offer.
Years passed, and the child grew into an ambitious young man. True to his word, Death returned, presenting his Godson with a flask containing a cure for all human ailments. This powerful potion came with strict rules: if Death hovered at the top of a patient’s bed, the doctor could heal them with a mere waft of the antidote’s fumes. However, if Death lingered at the foot of the bed, the patient was beyond saving.
The young doctor quickly gained fame for his miraculous cures and keen instincts. His reputation spread far and wide, lifting him from the hardships of his early life. When the king fell ill, the doctor was summoned to demonstrate his skills. However, upon entering the king’s chamber, he found Death at the foot of the bed.
Desperate for the glory of saving the king, the doctor defied his Godfather by spinning the bed around, allowing him to administer the antidote. Death, furious at this betrayal, warned his Godson that another such deception would cost him his life.
Despite the warning, the doctor was called again, this time to save the gravely ill princess. Tempted by the promise of riches, he approached her chamber. Yet, upon seeing her grace, his greed vanished, and he healed her without noticing Death at her feet. Before the princess could express her gratitude, Death whisked his lovesick Godson away.
The doctor found himself in a vast cave, surrounded by countless flickering candles, each representing a life. As punishment for his attempt to outwit mortality, Death reduced the doctor’s candle to a mere wick. Faced with his own mortality, the doctor pleaded for a new candle. But his betrayal was too great, and Death let the candle fall, leaving nothing but a wisp of smoke.
Draw a series of pictures that depict the main events of “The Tale of the Thirteenth Child: A Dance with Death.” Include captions for each scene to explain what is happening. This will help you visualize and understand the sequence of events in the story.
Imagine you are the doctor in the story. Write a diary entry describing your feelings and thoughts after meeting Death and receiving the healing flask. Reflect on the responsibilities and challenges you face as a healer.
With a partner, act out the scene where the father meets Death in the forest. One of you will play the father, and the other will play Death. Focus on the dialogue and emotions expressed during this pivotal moment.
Create a label for the healing flask given to the doctor by Death. Include important information such as the potion’s name, instructions for use, and any warnings. Use your creativity to make the label visually appealing.
Divide into two groups and debate whether the doctor was right or wrong to defy Death and save the king and the princess. Consider the consequences of his actions and the ethical dilemmas he faced. Present your arguments to the class.
Tale – A story that is often imaginative or fictional. – The old man told a fascinating tale about a brave knight who saved a kingdom.
Child – A young human being, typically under the age of 13. – The child listened eagerly as the teacher read a story about friendship.
Death – The end of life; the cessation of all biological functions that sustain a living organism. – In many stories, the theme of death teaches characters about the value of life.
Godfather – A man who serves as a guardian or mentor, often in a religious context. – In the story, the godfather guided the young hero through difficult choices.
Healing – The process of becoming healthy again, often after injury or illness. – The healing of the wounded character symbolized hope and new beginnings.
Fame – The state of being known or recognized by many people. – The author achieved fame after writing a bestselling novel that inspired many readers.
Temptation – The desire to do something, especially something wrong or unwise. – The hero faced temptation when offered a treasure that could lead to trouble.
Deception – The act of misleading or tricking someone. – The story revealed the deception of the villain, who pretended to be a friend.
Reckoning – A time when one must face the consequences of their actions. – The character’s reckoning came when he had to confront the mistakes he made.
Candle – A stick of wax with a wick that produces light when burned. – The candle flickered softly as the characters shared their hopes and dreams in the dark.
