Answer:
They are portrayed as the antagonists of the story, constantly plotting to harm Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, the protagonist, and the human family he protects.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Rudyard Kipling's short story "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi," Nag and Nagina, the two cobras, behave in a cunning and vicious manner. They are portrayed as the antagonists of the story, constantly plotting to harm Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, the protagonist, and the human family he protects.
Nag and Nagina's behavior can be attributed to their instinctive nature and their desire to survive. As predators, cobras rely on their venom and stealth to catch their prey. In the story, Nag and Nagina see Rikki-Tikki-Tavi as a threat to their existence and seek to eliminate him and the humans he protects. They use their cunning and intelligence to devise a plan to attack and kill Rikki-Tikki-Tavi.
Furthermore, Nag and Nagina's behavior can also be interpreted as a representation of evil and greed. They are portrayed as cruel and heartless creatures, willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals. Their greed and desire for power drive them to attack and kill, without any regard for the consequences of their actions.
Overall, Nag and Nagina's behavior in "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi" can be seen as a reflection of the darker side of human nature. Their actions are a reminder that the world can be a dangerous place, and that we must always be vigilant and prepared to defend ourselves against those who seek to harm us.