some questions about The Jungle Book

[ShiloJulie]

I have some problems on understanding the book, many thanks to whoever help me sovle these problems.

1.It has been said that the animals of the Jungle dare not to see the Mowgli' eyes, but why?

2.The tiger wanted to kill Mowgli, but why he ate and drank before that, he should know if he did so he would fail.

[Mister Micawber]

.
1-- Man dominates all other animals by being able to stare them down--at least, that is Kipling's thesis.
2-- Shere Khan has no control; he is over-confident. (Two possibilities-- it has been decades since I read 'The Jungle book').
.
_________________
Canadian-American native speaker
who teaches English for a living at Mister Micawber's
ESL cafe: Interview with Mr. Micawber

[ShiloJulie]

Thank you very much, my master!! I can understand it even better now!