Which of the following statements about the Panchatantra are true?

1. A. The Panchatantra descends from the Hitopadesha.
2. B. It is a manual for instructing a king's sons in good conduct (niti).
3. C. The first book deals with the adventures of a tortoise, a deer and a crow.
4. D. The Tantrakhyayika is one of its oldest recensions.
5. E. It is divided into five parts.

1. AA, B, C only
2. BA, C, D only
3. CB, D, E only
4. DA, C, E only

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Correct answer: C. B, D, E only

Explanation

Vishnusharma teaches three dull princes. The Hitopadesha derives from it, not the reverse; Book I is the jackals Karataka and Damanaka (the friendship of the crow, mouse, tortoise and deer is Book II).