Chapter 4
Birth
Author: A.J. Cronin
🖋️ About the Author:
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Archibald Joseph Cronin (1896–1981) was a Scottish doctor and novelist.
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His writing often reflects human compassion, medical experiences, and social themes.
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Some of his famous works include The Citadel, Hatter’s Castle, and The Keys of the Kingdom.
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His own medical background helped him write realistic and emotionally powerful stories.
📚 Introduction to the Chapter:
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Birth is an excerpt from Cronin’s novel The Citadel.
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It portrays the dramatic and emotional struggle of a young doctor, Andrew Manson, to save the life of a newborn baby and its mother.
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The story reflects medical ethics, determination, and the value of life.
🧵 Summary:
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Andrew Manson, a newly qualified doctor, is called to attend the delivery of a child at the house of Joe Morgan, a miner.
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The Morgans have waited 20 years for a child, so the birth is very important.
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After a long and difficult labor, the baby is born but appears stillborn.
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To make things worse, the mother collapses and becomes unconscious due to exhaustion and blood loss.
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Andrew works hard to revive the mother, and she finally becomes stable.
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Then he focuses on the baby — using hot and cold water, artificial respiration, and persistent efforts, he manages to bring the child to life.
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After this intense experience, Andrew leaves the house feeling proud, fulfilled, and emotionally moved by what he had accomplished.
👨⚕️ Main Characters:
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Dr. Andrew Manson – A young, sincere doctor who is determined to save lives.
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Joe Morgan – A miner, anxious for the birth of his child.
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Mrs. Morgan – The patient; becomes unconscious after childbirth.
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The Baby – Initially thought to be stillborn but later revived by Dr. Andrew.
💡 Themes:
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Duty and Responsibility – The doctor’s dedication to saving both mother and child.
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Miracle of Birth and Life – The intense effort and emotion involved in saving a newborn.
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Medical Ethics and Determination – Doctors must persevere, even in hopeless situations.
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Emotional Fulfillment – True satisfaction comes from doing something meaningful.
📝 Important Points:
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The story is based on a realistic medical situation.
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Dr. Andrew uses scientific methods and emotional strength to save lives.
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The title "Birth" symbolizes not just the baby's birth, but also the doctor’s emotional and professional growth.
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The story ends on a positive and inspiring note.
✍️ Moral/Message:
The story teaches that dedication, knowledge, and persistence can lead to miracles. It also emphasizes the noble responsibility doctors carry in saving lives and bringing hope.
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