Monotosh Dey
39 min
Updated: Jul 6, 2023
Your Passport to an Enviable score in Literature
Q1. People get support from family and friends during bad times. How does Lencho’s family behave after the harvest is ruined?
Ans: Ans: Lencho's family displays resilience and support for one another after their harvest is ruined. Despite the devastating loss, they remain united and hopeful in the face of adversity. Here's how Lencho's family behaves in the story:
1. Unity and Emotional Support: Lencho's family comes together as a unit, offering emotional support to one another. They share the burden of the destroyed harvest and face the challenges as a team. Their solidarity is evident in their shared hope and determination to seek help from God.
2. Maintaining Faith and Hope: Similar to Lencho, his family maintains faith and hope throughout the ordeal. They watch the sky and pray for rain, just like Lencho does. They hold onto the belief that God will provide them with a way out of their difficult situation, demonstrating their strong faith and optimism.
3. Trust in Lencho's Judgment: Lencho's family trusts his judgment and decision to write a letter to God. They have confidence in his unwavering faith and see his actions as a legitimate way to seek assistance. Their trust in Lencho's beliefs further strengthens the familial bond and collective hope.
4. Resilience in Adversity: Lencho's family demonstrates resilience in the face of adversity. Despite losing their entire crop, they do not give in to despair. Instead, they rally together, maintain their faith, and look for alternatives to overcome their hardships.
While the story primarily focuses on Lencho and his interactions with the postmaster and postal workers, it is evident that his family stands by him and supports him throughout the narrative. Their behavior reflects the importance of familial support and unity during challenging times.
Q2. ‘Lencho was an ox of a man, working like an animal in the fields, but still he knew how to write.’ What does this line tell us about the norm amongst such farmers, then?
Ans: Ans: The line "Lencho was an ox of a man, working like an animal in the fields, but still he knew how to write" suggests that among farmers like Lencho, the ability to write is not a common or expected skill. It implies that literacy or education may not be prevalent in the farming community to which Lencho belongs.
The comparison of Lencho to an ox, a strong and hardworking animal, emphasizes his physical labor and the demanding nature of his work in the fields. It underscores the idea that farming is a physically demanding occupation requiring strength and endurance.
However, the second part of the sentence highlights an exception in Lencho's case. Despite the norm among farmers, Lencho possesses the ability to write. This implies that he has acquired a skill that sets him apart from many others in his community.
The line serves to emphasize the contrast between Lencho's physical strength and his intellectual ability. It suggests that while the norm among farmers may be a focus on physical labor, Lencho has taken the initiative to learn how to write, indicating that he values education or literacy, even in a predominantly agricultural setting.
Q3. What, according to you would have been the likely reaction of Lencho’s wife upon knowing about him writing an actual letter to God?
Ans: Based on the characterization of Lencho's wife in the story, it is likely that her reaction upon learning about him writing an actual letter to God would be supportive and understanding. Here's a possible portrayal of her reaction:
Lencho's wife, who shares the same faith and hope in God, would probably be sympathetic towards her husband's decision to write a letter to God. She would understand the gravity of their situation and the importance of seeking divine intervention. Given their strong religious beliefs, she might even appreciate and admire his dedication and determination to reach out to God directly.
Upon discovering that Lencho has taken the initiative to write a letter to God, Lencho's wife may respond with encouragement and reassurance. She would likely express her belief in the power of prayer and the significance of their plea for help. Her support might manifest in words of comfort, telling him that God will hear their prayers and provide assistance in their time of need.
In essence, Lencho's wife would be expected to exhibit understanding, share in his faith, and offer emotional support as they navigate the challenges brought about by the ruined harvest. Her reaction would likely be aligned with their shared belief system and their mutual hope in divine intervention.
Q4. Lencho waited eagerly for a reply to his letter to God. Do you think the postmaster was also very keen to know Lencho’s reaction upon receiving the ‘reply’?
Ans: Yes, it is quite likely that the postmaster was also eager to know Lencho's reaction upon receiving the 'reply' to his letter. The postmaster had been moved by Lencho's sincere faith and belief in God, as well as his genuine need for help. The postmaster was touched by Lencho's trust in the postal system to deliver his letter to God and the sincerity with which he had written it.
Given the postmaster's compassion and empathy, he would have been genuinely interested in how Lencho would respond upon receiving what he believed to be a reply from God. The postmaster had played a pivotal role in gathering donations from the postal workers to help Lencho, acting as a medium of assistance.
The postmaster's curiosity about Lencho's reaction could stem from several factors, including:
1. Validation: The postmaster might have wanted to see if Lencho would interpret the money he received as a response from God. This would validate the postmaster's efforts and demonstrate that their assistance had truly made a difference in Lencho's life.
2. Impact of Faith: The postmaster might have been interested in witnessing the power of Lencho's faith and its effect on his perception of the world. He might have wanted to observe if Lencho's unwavering belief in God was reinforced or challenged by the events that unfolded.
3. Human Connection: The postmaster had developed a connection with Lencho through their interactions and correspondence. As a compassionate individual, he might have been genuinely curious to see how Lencho's situation had evolved and how his own efforts had impacted Lencho's life.
Overall, the postmaster's keenness to know Lencho's reaction upon receiving the 'reply' stems from his genuine concern for Lencho's well-being, his interest in the power of faith, and the human connection they had established throughout the story.
Q5. ‘The field was white, as if covered with salt.’ This is how the field is described after the hailstorm. The pelting hailstones could have been easily seen as sugar cubes. Do you think comparing it with sugar would have been more appropriate? Why/ Why not?
Comparing the field after the hailstorm to a white, salt-covered surface rather than sugar cubes can be seen as a deliberate choice in the story. Here are a few reasons why the comparison with salt may have been more appropriate:
1. Visual Representation: The use of salt as a comparison provides a clearer visual representation of the field's appearance. Salt is commonly associated with a white, crystalline texture, similar to the aftermath of a hailstorm. The description helps readers visualize the extent of the damage caused by the hail, with the field being transformed into a white expanse.
2. Symbolism of Desolation: Salt is often associated with barrenness or desolation. By comparing the field to salt, the author underscores the destruction caused by the hailstorm. It conveys a sense of emptiness, loss, and devastation. The stark whiteness implies a lack of life and vitality, highlighting the grim consequences of the natural disaster.
3. Contrast to Sweetness: While sugar cubes could have been a potential comparison, using salt creates a deliberate contrast. Sugar is typically associated with sweetness and pleasantness, which would contrast with the negative impact of the hailstorm. The choice of salt emphasizes the bitter reality of the situation, emphasizing the harshness and difficulty Lencho and his family now face.
4. Cultural and Symbolic Significance: In certain cultures or literary traditions, salt carries symbolic meanings related to purification, preservation, or even the concept of being cursed. The comparison may have been influenced by such cultural or symbolic associations, adding depth and layers of meaning to the description.
While the comparison with sugar cubes could have also conveyed a sense of whiteness, it may not have captured the desolation and starkness that the author intended to convey. The choice to liken the field to salt aligns with the tone and themes of the story, providing a more appropriate and evocative depiction of the hailstorm's aftermath.
Q6. Lencho and his family knew the implications the hailstorm would have on their lives. Write a conversation between Lencho and his wife as they watched the downpour turn to a hailstorm.
Lencho: (Staring at the sky, concerned) Maria, look at those dark clouds. I fear this rain will bring more trouble than relief to our fields.
Maria: (Gazing at the sky with worry) Yes, Lencho, I can feel it too. It's not just rain anymore. Those hailstones... they will destroy everything we've worked so hard for.
Lencho: (Clasping his hands together) We were already struggling, Maria. We were counting on this harvest to sustain us through the year. How will we survive if our crops are ruined?
Maria: (Placing a hand on Lencho's shoulder) We must have faith, Lencho. We've weathered storms before, and somehow we've managed to endure. God will not abandon us now.
Lencho: (Nodding, but with a worried expression) I know, Maria, I know. Our faith has always guided us. But this hailstorm... it feels different. It feels like a test of our resilience.
Maria: (Squeezing Lencho's hand) We've faced adversity before, my love, and we've always found a way. Remember when the drought struck? We came together, rationed what little we had, and made it through. We'll do the same this time.
Lencho: (Looking into Maria's eyes, searching for reassurance) But the crops... they're our livelihood. What if there's nothing left to salvage?
Maria: (Taking a deep breath) Lencho, we cannot control the weather or its consequences. All we can do is put our trust in God and take the necessary steps to rebuild. We are strong, and together we will find a way to overcome this setback.
Lencho: (Squeezing Maria's hand back) You're right, Maria. We must not lose hope. Our hard work and determination will carry us through. Let's gather what we can, seek help from our neighbors, and start anew. We have each other, and that's what truly matters.
Maria: (Smiling softly) Yes, Lencho, we have each other and our unyielding spirit. We'll face this challenge head-on, as we always have. We'll rebuild our lives and continue to have faith in God's providence.
In this conversation, Lencho and Maria express their concerns and fears about the hailstorm and its impact on their lives. They reaffirm their faith and resilience, emphasizing the importance of unity and trust in God. Despite their worries, they find solace in each other's support and vow to face the challenges together, determined to rebuild their lives with hope and perseverance.
Q7. Lencho did not bother exploring any other means to resolve his situation but just turned to God. Do you feel that his approach was justified? Why/Why not?
Ans: Lencho's approach of turning to God as his primary means of seeking assistance can be viewed from different perspectives, and whether it was justified or not depends on individual beliefs and interpretations. Here are two contrasting viewpoints:
1. Justification of Lencho's Approach:
Faith and Belief: Lencho's deep faith in God and his belief in divine intervention justify his approach. For him, God is the ultimate source of help and guidance, and turning to God reflects his trust in a higher power.
Cultural and Religious Context: Lencho's approach might be justified within the cultural and religious context he belongs to, where seeking assistance from God in times of difficulty is a common practice. It aligns with his upbringing and the teachings he has received.
2. Critique of Lencho's Approach:
Self-Reliance and Proactivity: Some may argue that Lencho's approach is not justified because he solely relies on divine intervention without exploring other means or taking proactive steps to address his situation. They might contend that while faith is important, individuals should also take practical actions to resolve their challenges.
Lack of Pragmatism: Lencho's approach could be criticized for being idealistic or lacking pragmatism. In the story, when the postal workers extend help, he fails to recognize it and continues to rely solely on divine intervention. This suggests a potential oversight in recognizing the assistance provided by fellow humans.
Ultimately, whether Lencho's approach is justified or not depends on personal beliefs, religious background, and cultural context. It reflects his unwavering faith, but it may also invite discussions about the balance between faith and practical action, as well as the significance of human agency in resolving challenges.
Q8. The postmaster was a representative of God. Evaluate this statement in the context of your understanding of ‘A Letter to God”.
In the context of "A Letter to God," it would not be accurate to consider the postmaster as a direct representative of God. While the postmaster plays a significant role in the story, he does not embody the qualities or attributes typically associated with a representative of God. Here's an evaluation of the statement:
1. Symbolic Interpretation: Symbolically, one could argue that the postmaster represents a channel or intermediary through which God's assistance is delivered. In this interpretation, the postmaster's actions reflect the compassionate and helpful nature that God may possess. However, it is important to note that the postmaster is not explicitly portrayed as a direct representative or spokesperson for God.
2. Human Compassion: The postmaster embodies qualities such as empathy, kindness, and generosity, which can be seen as reflective of virtues often associated with godly attributes. He demonstrates these qualities by gathering donations from postal workers to help Lencho and his family. However, it's crucial to recognize that the postmaster's compassion arises from his own humanity and empathy, rather than from a direct divine mandate.
3. Limited Power: The postmaster's role is limited to the realm of human actions and interactions. He does not possess the supernatural powers or divine authority typically associated with a representative of God. He serves as a helpful figure within the human realm, rather than an embodiment of divine presence or intervention.
Overall, while the postmaster in "A Letter to God" showcases compassion and embodies qualities associated with kindness, his character cannot be directly equated to a representative of God. The story primarily explores themes of faith, hope, and compassion among human beings, rather than emphasizing a direct connection between the postmaster and divine authority.
Nelson Mandela
Q1. What did Nelson Mandela thank the International Leaders for?
Ans: Mandela thanked the international leaders for their indispensable presence in his investiture ceremony as the first Black President of South Africa. He thanked all distinguished international guests for having come to take possession with the people of their country of what is, after all, a common victory for justice, for peace, for human dignity.
Q2. What is the 'extraordinary human disaster' Nelson Mandela refers to in his speech?
Ans: The ‘extraordinary human disaster’ here refers to the untold suffering, humiliation, deprivation & discrimination of all types that the Black community of South Africa were subjected to by the White Govt. The structure that the white-skinned people of South Africa created formed the basis of one of the harshest and most inhumane societies in the world.
Q3. What does Mandela pledge to achieve for the people of South Africa?
Ans: Mandela was beside himself with joy when he announced that they achieved their political emancipation. He pledged to liberate all his people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination. He further said with conviction that the beautiful land of South Africa would never ever experience the oppression of one by another.
Q4. How did the policy of apartheid create 'a deep & lasting wound' in South Africa?
Ans: The White-skinned people of South Africa erected a system of racial domination against the dark-skinned people of their own land. The structure they created formed the basis of one of the harshest, most inhumane societies the world has ever known. As a result, the dark skinned people underwent continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, gender discrimination and so on. A host of ordinary people fought for their political & social rights for equality. In this struggle, freedom fighters sacrificed their lives with an effort to liberate their own people from the racial social structure.
Q5. What, according to Mandela, was the unintended effect of the decades of oppression and brutality?
Ans: The unintended effect of decades of oppression and brutality was that it produced leaders like Oliver Tambos, the Walter Sisulus, the Chief Luthulis, the Yusuf Dadoos, the Bram Fischers, the Robert Sobukwes- men of extraordinary courage, wisdom and generosity that their like may never be known to mankind again.
Q6. Would you agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”? How does Mandela illustrate this?
Ans: Yes, I agree with Mandela that the depths of oppression create heights of character. Mandela means to say that years of oppression, deprivation & discrimination of the dark-skinned people made them stand up to attacks and torture without breaking, showing a strength and resilience that defies the imagination.
He illustrates this fact when he says that decades of oppression and brutality produced leaders like Oliver Tambos, the Walter Sisulus, the Chief Luthulis, the Yusuf Dadoos, the Bram Fischers, the Robert Sobukwes- men of extraordinary courage, wisdom and generosity that their like may never be known to mankind again.
Q7. What did Mandela learn from the comrades of the freedom struggle in South Africa?
Ans: Mandela learnt from the comrades of the freedom struggle the meaning of courage. Time and again, he had seen men and women risk and give their lives for an idea. He had seen men stand up to attacks and torture without breaking, showing a strength and resilience that defied the imagination. He learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.
Q8. How does Mandela justify that love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite? Illustrate with the help of an example.
Ans: For all the injustices and discrimination the natives faced at the hands of their white oppressors, Mandela never learns to hate. He retains his faith in the essential goodness of human beings, and believes that love comes more naturally to the human heart than hate.
Mandela illustrates this fact with an example of a prison guard. Even in the grimmest times in prison, when his comrades and he were pushed to their limits, he saw a glimmer of humanity in one of the guards, perhaps just for a second, but it was sufficient enough to reassure him & gave him strength to continue with his struggle.
Q9. What, according to Nelson Mandela, are twin obligations? Why do you think one should fulfill those obligations in a civilized society?
Ans: ‘Twin obligations’ refers to obligations to one’s family, to his parents, to his wife and children as well as his obligation to his people, his community and his country.
In my opinion, one should fulfill those obligations as a human being. We should fulfill our obligations towards our family and as responsible citizens we should also extend our helping hands to the people of our community. It is our bounden duty as human beings to help our fellow beings & contribute to whatever extent possible for their well-being.
Q10. Were the people of colour in South Africa able to fulfil those obligations? Give reasons to support your answer.
Ans: No, people of South Africa were not able to fulfill those obligations. In South Africa, a man of colour who attempted to live as a human being was punished and isolated. In South Africa, a man who tried to fulfil his duty to his people was inevitably ripped from his family and his home and was forced to live a life apart, a twilight existence of secrecy and rebellion.
Q11. What were the different types of freedom Nelson Mandela speaks about? Explain with instances of each type.
Ans: Being free to Mandela as a boy refers to the freedom of being able to stay out at night, read what you pleased and go where you chose. ‘Transitory freedoms’ refers to the freedom that we enjoy during our childhood.
But when he grew up as a student, he yearned for ‘the basic and honourable freedoms’ of achieving his potential, of earning his keep, of marrying and having a family. This type of freedom is what we crave for because it is a kind of freedom that is required for every one of us as adults in a civil society.
But according to Mandela, he cannot be considered as free if the people of his community are not free. The chains on anyone of his people were the chains on all of them & the chains on all of his people were the chains on him. That is why hunger for his own freedom became the greater hunger for the freedom of his people.
Q12. How did the perception of freedom change as Mandela grew up? Justify with instances from the text.
Ans: Mandela saw that it was not just his freedom that was curtailed, but the freedom of everyone in his Black community. Mandela realized that the chains on anyone of his people were the chains on all of them. Similarly, the chains on all of his people were the chains on him. According to him, one is not truly free if he is taking away someone else’s freedom, just as he is not free when his freedom is taken away from him. Therefore, both the oppressor and the oppressed need to be liberated to ensure freedom in the right sense.
Q13. Why, according to Mandela, should the oppressor be liberated just as surely as the oppressed?
Ans: According to Mandela, the oppressor must be liberated just as surely as the oppressed. A man who takes away another man’s freedom is a prisoner of hatred. He is locked behind the bars of prejudice and narrowmindedness. Mandela thinks that one is not truly free if he is taking away someone else’s freedom, just as surely as one is not free when his freedom is taken from him. The oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity.
Q14. How did Mandela’s ‘hunger for freedom’ change his life?
As a young man Mandela saw that it was not just his freedom that was curtailed, but the freedom of everyone in his Black community. Therefore, he joined the African National Congress, and then the hunger for his own freedom became the greater hunger for the freedom of his people. It was this desire for the freedom of his people to live their lives with dignity and self respect that animated his life and he began to work tirelessly for the emancipation of his community from the tyranny of the Whites.
Q15. 'Man’s goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished.' Illustrate this statement with the help of an example.
Mandela means to say that Mandela illustrates this fact with an example of a prison guard. Even in the grimmest times in prison, when his comrades and he were pushed to their limits, he saw a glimmer of humanity in one of the guards, perhaps just for a second, but it was sufficient enough to reassure him & gave him strength to continue with his struggle.
The Sermons at Benares
Q1. 'The Buddha did not see much suffering during his early years.' Justify this statement with an instance from the text.
Ans: At twelve, he was sent away for schooling in the Hindu sacred scriptures and four years later he returned home to marry a princess. He was shielded from suffering as he was confined inside his palace where there was tremendous opulence. He was touched by what saw when he went outside for hunt- a sick man, then an aged man, then a funeral procession, and finally a monk begging for alms. Exposure to outside life would have conditioned him into accepting suffering as a part of life.
Q2. Do you think Kisa Gotami was optimistic after talking to Buddha? Give a reason to justify your answer.
Ans: Yes, of course, she became optimistic after talking to Buddha. She thought that she would be able to collect a handful of mustard seeds from a house and could revive her son. But when she could hear that there was no house where suffering or death stopped to enter, she realized that she had become selfish in her grief. Death is common to all. She is not the only one who has suffered the loss of a loved one. This is what the Buddha was trying to teach her.
The Proposal
The Proposal
Q1.What kind of an impact do the arguments between Lomava & Natalya have on their relationships?
Lomov fights with Natalya for a piece of land. Both of them want to have a claim for the same piece of land, i.e., Oxen Meadows. The second time they fight for their dogs to establish the superiority of one over the other.
Their quarrelsome nature makes them blind to the real issue at hand - the need to come together and unite through marriage for economic advantage.
Lomov's nerves fail and he collapses.
Thinking that he is dead, Natalya becomes hysterical again.
Chubukov thinks he would be better off putting a gun to his head rather than facing the situation.
Thankfully, however, it is only a faint and Lomov soon recovers.
Before Natalya and Lomov can start quarrelling , he joins their hands and makes them kiss. The proposal is a success - it is accepted though it is never made!
Q2. Describe the petty arguments between the characters.
Lomov fought with Natalya for a piece of land. Both of them wanted to have a claim for the same piece of land, i.e., Oxen Meadows. The second time they fought for their dogs to establish the superiority of one over the other.
Lomov and Natalya are not able to decide whose dog is superior as Natalya is proud of her dog, Squeezer who is young and belongs to a pedigree, whereas Lomov considers it to be uppershot and boasts of his pet ‘Guess’ who he thinks is a first rate dog. But Natalya considers ‘Guess’ to be old and as ugly as a worn out cab horse.
Q3. What, according to you, is the turning point when Natalya accepts Lomov’s claims of owning the Oxen meadows?
When Chubukov informs Natalya that Lomov has come to propose to her, she lapses into hysterics & sends her father to fetch him back.
Lomov comes in complaining about his heart & other ailments. Natalya wastes no time in apologising.
She agrees with Lomov that the Meadows are his, and tries to get him around to propose to her.
But again they fight over the superiority of their respective dogs. Lomov’s nerves fail & he collapses. Thankfully, however, it is only a faint & Lomov soon recovers.
Natalya tells him that the Oxen Meadows are really his because she wants him to propose to her.
Marriage with Lomov was a far more attractive proposition than the ownership of the Meadows. Thus Chuvukov’s information to Natalya about Lomov’s visit as well as Lomov’s sudden faint , in my opinion, is the turning point when Natalya accepts Lomov’s claim of owning Oxen Meadows.
Q4. When does Natalya accuse Lomov of being a land grabber?
Natalya becomes angry when Lomov states that according to the principle, Natalya cannot claim Oxen Meadows to be hers. In spite of this, if she desperately wants the land, then Lomov can present her Oxen Meadows,
On hearing this statement, Natalya loses her temperament and accuses him of being a land grabber.
Q5. During the heated arguments between Lomov & Natalya the cordial relation between the neighbours was dampened and the proposal was forgotten. Justify this statement with instances from the text.
Lomov fought with Natalya for a piece of land. Both of them wanted to have a claim for the same piece of land, i.e., Oxen Meadows.
The second time they fought for their dogs to establish the superiority of one over the other.
Lomov and Natalya are not able to decide whose dog is superior as Natalya is proud of her dog, Squeezer who is young and belongs to a pedigree, whereas Lomov considers it to be uppershot and boasts of his pet ‘Guess’ who he thinks is a first rate dog.
Their quarrelsome nature makes them blind to the real issue at hand - the need to come together and unite through marriage for economic advantage.
Q6. Why do you think Chubukov welcomed Lomov very cordially when Lomov visted his house?
Chubukov did so in order to win the heart of Lomov with his goodwill & cordial gestures.
He was interested for his daughter’s marriage with Lomov.
Besides being a neighbour, Lomov was a wealthy man & was a perfect match for Natalya.
For the security of his daughter as well as for the collaborative business prospect after the marriage, Chubukov was in favour of their marriage.
Q7. 'At the end of the story good economic sense prevailed that led to the marriage between Natalya & Lomov.' Explain with reference to the story.
Lomov fought with Natalya for a piece of land.
The second time they fought for their dogs to establish the superiority of one over the other. Lomov’s nerves fail & he collapses. Thankfully, however, it is only a faint & Lomov soon recovers.
Natalya tells him that the Oxen Meadows are really his because she wants him to propose to her. Marriage with Lomov was a far more attractive proposition than the ownership of the Meadows.
Economic considerations take precedence over love as reason for marriage.
Chubukov is ecstatic that the marriage took place & their marital bond would only double their wealth. Hence the statement is justified.
Q8. Why do you think Natalya Stepanova asked her father to call Lomov back when she heard that he had come with a proposal?
Natalya felt excited on learning from her father about the purpose of Lomov’s visit. She wanted to cash on the opportunity to get married with Lomov.
Moreover, she was past marriage age and the proposal would prove beneficial for her in economic terms.
Therefore, she ignored Lomov’s frail health & problem of hypochondria & asked her father to call him back as Lomov was an eligible match for her.
Q9. When Natalya comes to meet Lomov, she quotes her father’s words – “and papa said, “Go; there’s a merchant come for his goods.” What do you think Chubukov meant?
Chubukov is selfish and hypocritical. He has no affection for Lomov as he professes. This is amply demonstrated by his cynical and unkind view of Lomov.
We know from Natalya that Chubukov told her nothing of Lomov's proposal. He merely referred to him as 'a merchant come for his goods.
Such a description of Lomov shows a degree of cynicism wholly incompatible with neighbourly affection and love.
Long Questions ( 6 Marks) | CBE Based
Q1. Arguments over insignificant things have led to disastrous results, especially between close family members and friends. Do you agree? Justify your answer with reference to the story.
Yes, I agree with the above statement. Let us justify the statement with the help of arguments between Lomov & Natalya as given in the story.
Lomov fought with Natalya for a piece of land. Both of them wanted to have a claim for the same piece of land, i.e., Oxen Meadows.
The second time they fought for their dogs to establish the superiority of one over the other.
Lomov and Natalya are not able to decide whose dog is superior as Natalya is proud of her dog, Squeezer who is young and belongs to a pedigree, whereas Lomov considers it to be uppershot and boasts of his pet ‘Guess’ who he thinks is a first rate dog.
Their quarrelsome nature makes them blind to the real issue at hand - the need to come together and unite through marriage for economic advantage.
We make fences and spoil relationships. Anton Chekov has conveyed this message in the play ‘The Proposal’.
It is only the lack of forgiveness that creates unnecessary misunderstandings and leads to quarrel on petty issues. The matter is not sorted out until they forgive each other. The value of forgiveness should be inculcated amongst the students in our schools through examples from real life and literature.
Q2.The marriage proposal is a mockery of romance and marriage in the upper class. Justify your answer with reference to the story.
The story "The Proposal" is based on the convention among aristocratic families in nineteenth-century Russia to marry for money.
Economic considerations take precedence over love as a reason for marriage. Chubukov is ecstatic that Lomov has come to ask for his daughter's hand in marriage. They are both wealthy landowners, and a marriage would only multiply their wealth in business.
Lomov too is motivated by practical considerations. He knows that if he tries to look for real love, he may never get married.
He is at a critical age and keeps poor health. Marriage will help him lead a quiet and regular life.
When he proposes the topic of marriage to Natalya, he begins by talking about his land rather than any admiration or love he may have for her.
Natalya fights vigorously with Lomov over a piece of land, and shows her contempt for his weak nerves.
She begins quarrelling again over whose dog is better. She stubbornly refuses to budge from her position
Yet, when she learns that Lomov had come to propose to her, she wants him back at any cost.
Thus the play is also a satire on love and marriage because it shows a reality of married life - money over mind & unending strife between husband & wife over petty matters.
Q3. The pride in property, even the superiority of dogs, take priority over love and marriage. The characters lack patience, stop listening to each other, and then contradict each other. Do you think these quarrels will promise a happy life? What qualities would you consider for a well-matched couple? Justify your answer with reference to Lomov, Natalya & Chubukov.
No, quarrel over a petty matter will never promise a happy relations among neighbours and family members. Let us illustrate the statement with reference to the story.
Lomov fought with Natalya for a piece of land. Both of them wanted to have a claim for the same piece of land, i.e., Oxen Meadows.
The second time they fought for their dogs to establish the superiority of one over the other.
Lomov and Natalya are not able to decide whose dog is superior as Natalya is proud of her dog, Squeezer who is young and belongs to a pedigree, whereas Lomov considers it to be uppershot and boasts of his pet ‘Guess’ who he thinks is a first rate dog.
Chubukov calls Lomov a pettifogger, a malicious double-faced intriguer, a villain and a scarecrow.
Chubukov calls Lomov's grandfather a drunkard, and father a guzzling gambler.
Lomov says Chubukov's mother was hump-backed & calls Chubukov an old rat, a Jesuit, a grabber.
For a well-matched couple, the qualities like being tolerant, forgiving, empathetic and being able to ignore petty matters is all that is required to lead a cordial & healthy relationship.
Q4. Do you think all of us should know how to manage our anger? What happens when emotions are governed by materialistic ambition? Answer with reference to the story.
The value of forgiveness is the characteristic trait of all the cordial relationships.
Most of the time anger mounts due to communication gap or misunderstandings.
Lack of tolerance and mismanagement of anger lead to toxic relationships.
In the story, Lomov & Natalaya argues over the ownership over Oxen Meadows- a piece of land. Each one of them claims the land to be theirs.
The second time they fought for their dogs to establish the superiority of one over the other.
Chuvukov also fanned the fire when he accused Lomov of being a pettifogger, a malicious double-faced intriguer, a villain and a scarecrow.
He further calls Lomov's grandfather a drunkard, and father a guzzling gambler.
Lomov, on the other hand,said that Chubukov's mother was hump-backed & calls Chubukov an old rat, a Jesuit, a grabber.
Thus from the above instances we can find that the characters in the story are short-tempered & become angry at petty matters. They are not able to control their anger as their emotions are governed by materialistic ambitions.
When materialism takes precedence, people tend to become selfish & self-centred.
They tend to turn a deaf ear towards virtues like forgiveness, empathy, kindness & cooperation.
Their only objective in life becomes procuring wealth & they go to any extent to realise their materialistic ambitions.
Thus we can find from the story that the very purpose of coming together for a marital bond is defeated as the characters lack anger management & emotionally balanced state of mind.
Madam Rides the Bus
Q1. The dialogue between Valli and the bus conductor appears to be educative for every child. What should a child learn from Valli's interactions with the bus conductor.
Ans: A child should learn the following from Valli's interactions with the bus conductor:
We should not take favour from anyone. For example, when bus conductor stretched out a hand to help her to board the bus, she replied that she could manage herself .
She is very honest in her dealings with others. For example, when the bus conductor asked her to get down after reaching the town and go for sightseeing, she did not oblige as she knew that she was left with hardly any money to spend .
She has all the gentleman-like trait in her personality. She did not take undue advantage even when the conductor wanted to give her a cold drink after reaching the town.
So we get to learn the fact that we should not be very friendly with strangers, take undue favour and advantage from strangers and be alert when we travel alone anywhere outside.
Q2. What kind of haughtiness like ‘I’m not a child, I tell you.' is displayed by Valli in her dialogues with the bus conductor. Mention two instances to justify your answer.
She responded in a haughty manner when an elderly man asked a child like her to sit. She replied that she was not a child as she had already paid the fare.
The conductor handed a ticket to her & asked her to sit back and make herself comfortable as she had paid for a seat. She replied haughtily that she was standing as she wanted to just stand.
Q3. Do you think Valli was empathetic in nature? Explain with reference to the dead cow.
Yes, of course Valli was empathetic in nature.
On her back journey, Valli saw a young cow lying dead on the road side. When she came to know that it was the same cow that ran in front of her bus on her journey to the town, she overcame with sadness.
Death of the cow, the sight of her lifeless body, a fixed stare in its lifeless eyes, blood all over changed her mood. The entire scene lost its charm. Valli was overcome with sadness. Thus we can see that Valli was empathetic in nature.
Q4. This wish became ‘stronger and stronger until it was an overwhelming desire.’ Write instances from the story to justify that Valli was a keen observer and had an eye of minute observation.
Ans:
Valli wished to have a ride on the bus. We can understand that she was a keen observer.
She used to listen to the passengers’ conversation carefully. She heard about the city and many more things through them. A tiny wish crept into her mind and became a desire.
She had to plan her journey to the city by the bus. So she started collecting information about the distance, time and fare of the journey.
Valli collected some details of the journey. The city was six miles from her village. The fare was thirty paise one way. The trip takes forty five minutes one way. Now she could plan her journey by the bus in an easy way.
Q5. Valli didn’t like the way adults treated her during her bus journey. Describe how you would feel and react if you were to find yourself in a similar situation.
I would not feel annoyed like Valli felt I were in a similar situation.
Being a child it was not wise for me to travel alone to an unknown place. It was quite natural for elders to advise me on certain things like I should sit down when the bus was moving and queries like whether I was travelling alone.
I would not react so haughtily as valli did to the statement of an elderly man and the bus conductor.
Long Questions/6 Marks
Q1. Do you think Valli was right in travelling alone on a bus to a nearby town? What preautions should a child as adventurous as Valli take if at all they need to travel alone to a neaby place?
I do not think that Valli was right in her decision to travel alone to the nearby town . She should not travel to an unknown place all by herself.
Even though she was a very cautious and responsible girl, but anything could happen to a child in the event of her traveling alone.
She knew that the world outside was strange to her so she was being extra cautious. I appreciate her sense of responsibility but it was also not proper on her part to go out alone without telling her parents.
Children must confide in their parents in whatever they do. Our elders have experience and knowledge and under their guidance, we should take decisions in every walk of life.
Q2. 'To Save a penny is to earn it'. Justify this statement with refernce to Valli's sacrifice of a lot of recreations & pleasure.
Vali found out that the bus fare to the nearest town was thirty paise one way. The trip to the town took forty-five minutes. On reaching town she could return to her village in the same bus by paying another thirty paise. Thus she planned to catch the one-o'clock afternoon bus, reach the town at one forty-five and be back home by about two forty-five.
Valli sacrificed a host of recreations & pleasure in the following way to make her planned trip a success.
She saved by collecting whatever stray coins came her way.
She resisted every temptation to buy peppermints, toys, balloons, and so on.
She resolutely stifled a strong desire at the village fair to ride the merry-go-round.
Thus she ended up saving a total of sixty paise for a to-and-fro trip to the town.
Q3. Valli was sensitive, but at the same time she was fearless and quite determined. Think of another character from your textbook, First Flight, who displayed similar character traits. Compare and contrast the lives of Valli and the other character.
Ans: To be uploaded shortly.
Mijbil the Otter
Q1. No animal likes to be confined. They remain healthy, strong and active only in their natural habitat. Explain the statement with reference to the Otter as described in the story.
The author lived in Camusfearna, which is surrounded by water on all side. Therefore, he decided to keep an otter as pet. The otter was from the marshes of the Tigris River. So an otter loves to be flanked by water all around.-their natural habitat.
Mijibil was new to his surrounding when the narrator brought him in Basra. . He was not used to staying in a confined house before. So for the first twenty-four hours he was a keen observant.
The narrator made a body-belt for him and took him on a lead to the bathroom, where for half an hour he went wild with joy in the water, plunging and rolling in it, shooting up and down the length of the bathtub underwater, and making enough slosh and splash.
His adventures in the bathroom and his wild joy at the sight of water reveal a new side of him to his master. The author could realise that an otter had natural love for movement in water.
Q2. Why do you think Mijbil was neither hostile nor friendly for the first twenty-four hours after he was brought home?
Ans: Mijibil was new to his surrounding when the narrator brought him in Basra. . He was not used to staying in a confined house before. So for the first twenty-four hours he was a keen observant & was surveying everything with minute details. Therefore, in my opinion, he was neither hostile nor friendly when he was shifted to his artificial habitat.
Q3. How can you say that Mijbil loved to be in water which was its natural habitat? Explain with reference to the story.
The following instances prove that Mijbil loved to be in water.
The narrator made a body-belt for him and took him on a lead to the bathroom, where for half an hour he went wild with joy in the water, plunging and rolling in it, shooting up and down the length of the bathtub underwater, and making enough slosh and splash.
Next day, Mijbil escaped from the bedroom and entered the bathroom. He struggled with the tap till it had a full flow of water. In less than a minute after he entered the bathroom, he had turned the tap far enough to produce a trickle of water. Soon Mijbil would turn on the water taps himself to fill the bathtub and had a rollicking time in the bathroom.
The narrator provides freedom to the otter to do what he likes the most—playing and rolling about in water in the bathtub like a playful and naughty child. Mijbil was allowed to spend most of his time in play without caring for the room being dirty.
Thus we can see that Mijbil loved being flanked by water all around. He loved to play with water whenever the opportunity presented itself.
Q4. Mijbil caused a sensation in London. Expound with reference to the chapter “Mijbil the Otter”.
Ans:
Mijbil is viewed as a mysterious creatures by Londoners. When the narrator took Mijbil out for walks, he was surprised by the guesses the average Londoner made about the kind of animal Mijbil was.
Mijbil arouses their interest into guessing what kind of animal he is, although no one gets it right. Some asked if he was a squrrel, baby seal or walrus. Others thought that he was a beaver, bear cub or leopard that had changed its spots.
It is clear that the people of London are not familiar with an otter, let alone appreciate the idea of keeping such an animal as a pet.
Q5. What was the greatest obstacle faced by the narrator in transporting Mijbil to Camusfearna?
Ans:
The British airline to London would not fly animals, so the narrator booked a flight to Paris on another airline, and from there to London & then to Camusfearna.
Q6. Mijbil is an active animal who shows many emotions. Explain with instances from the text.
Mijbil is shown having human qualities throughout the story.
Mijbil’s intelligence is clear from his attempts to turn on and off the tap in the bathtub.
It can even dribble the ball and juggle the objects without even dropping them.
He understands the narrator’s love for him and follows him everywhere.
Mijbil spent most of his time in playing with a rubber ball with its feet. He dribbled and threw it. He was a fun-loving animal. He played with a plastic ball too. He had invented his own game.
Mijbil, the otter, was a fun-loving intelligent animal. He loved water. On the first day, he went wild with joy in the water. Next day, Mijbil escaped from the bedroom and entered the bathroom. He struggled with the tap till it had a full flow of water.
Q1. From your reading of the story 'Mijbil-the Otter' describe how the writer portrays the otter and its relationship with humans.
Ans:
The narrator has revealed some interesting facts regarding his pet, Mijbil the otter. The main purpose behind this is to arouse feelings of empathy and concern for pets as well as wild animals.
The narrator Maxwell and Mijbil share a unique relationship. Narrator’s considerate behaviour helped him in winning the trust of the otter, an otherwise wild animal.
He provides freedom to the otter to do what he likes the most—playing and rolling about in water in the bathtub like a playful and naughty child.
Mijbil was allowed to spend most of his time in play without caring for the room being dirty. It shows the narrator’s concern and empathy for the creature.
He has compassion and empathy for him. He takes every care for his safety. He understands his needs and fulfils them.
Q2. Without the assistance of the airhostess, the narrator could not have transported Mijbil from Basra to London safely. Comment.
The air hostess in the story 'Mijbil the otter', was empathetic & cooperative all throughtout the flight.
She tried to act against the rules in the name of humanity. The air hostess was the embodiment of good qualities.
When Gavin Maxwell told her about the otter, she listened to his story very peacefully. She was the queen of her kind.
Though it was against the rules to carry the animal in that way yet she decided to help him.
She even suggested that he could keep the pet on his knee. She was always kind hearted and considerate.
She handled the whole situation calmly. When Mijbil created trouble with squeaks and shrieks, she maintained her charming smile.
She displayed basic human values while on her duty.
Therefore, the author was successful in his effort to transport Mijbil from Basra to London with the help of cooperation of the air hostess.
Q3. Peculiar behaviours are a characteristic of Otters. Discuss with respect to “Mijbil the Otter”.
When Mij was to be transported to England, and to Camusfearna the narrator got tensed at the prospect.
Mij was packed in a box with airholes in order to be taken by an airline. Just before leaving the home for airport, the narrator was shocked to see traces of blood all around the box.
Mijbil in an attempt to be freed had fumbled with the box and had injured itself.
During the flight, Mijbil, caused a lot of trouble. On being let out of the box, Mijbil went wild in the aircraft. There was pandemonium all around.
On the suggestion of the airhostess the narrator resumed his journey with Mijbil on his knees.
Q4. Discuss the commitment the author has shown for keeping his pet- Mijbil in his house.
For some people, life without a pet is lonely. The same happened with the narrator. When his pet dog died, he became extremely sad. To overcome his grief, he decided to have an otter as a pet.
The author's zeal for a pet makes him adopt an otter, who fills his life with adventures.
The author is attentive to the needs of his pet. He is very observant of Mijbil's antics & describes them at great length. He trains him, takes him for walks and is cautious about what he eats.
In London , he relishes having Londoners guess what kind of an animal Mijbil is. There is never a dull moment with the otter by his side.
Mijbil turns out to be a great company, and the author enjoys the time they spend together.
Q1. Describe key features of the place about Coorg.
Coorg is a beautiful land of rolling hills inhabited by a proud race of martial men, beautiful women and wild animals and birds.
It is home to evergreen rainforests, a variety of spices and coffee plantations. The rainforests cover thirty per cent of Coorg.
During the monsoons, there are heavy downpours which keep many visitors away. But from September to March, the weather is perfect.
Coffee estates and colonial bungalows add to the old-world charm of the region.
Q2. Why does the author in ‘Coorg’ say that the visitors’ search for the heart and soul of India would be found in Coorg?
Coorg has amazing wildlife, and the terrain makes it a great place for outdoor and adventure activities.
The rolling hills and the swiftly flowing river offer the perfect area for adventure sports-river rafting, canoeing, rappelling, rock climbing and mountain biking.
Coorg also has numerous walking trails which are a favourite with trekkers.
The Brahmagiri Hills give a panoramic view of the misty landscape of Coorg.
Surrounded by the Kaveri and accessible by a rope bridge is the sixty-four acre island of Nisargadhama.
Bylakuppe, which has a large Tibetan settlement, is situated nearby. Visitors searching for the heart and soul of India may find it right here in Coorg.
Q3. How did the baker become synonymous with celebrations and occasions in Goa?
A baker played a vital role in the lives of people of Goa. No function, festival, nor was any party possible in the absence of a baker.
The baker supplied loaves and cakes on these occasions.
Bread in its many forms, is an essential food item not only for everyday consumption but for all special occasions in Goan life.
This makes the baker's presence even more welcoming and thrilling.
Q4. Do adventure sports like river rafting and rock climbing require a person to possess just physical strength? Why/Why not?
No, to pursue such adventurous sports we need to have mental strength & resilience.
We need to have commitment and undying passion.
Physical fitness is of course a determining factor in undertaking such power-driven sports.
But if physical fitness is not accompanied with mental toughness & resilience in the face of adversity, the entire exercise would turn out to be a futile exercise.
Q5. Coorgis belong to a valorous and hospitable race. Comment on this statement with reference to the text.
Coorgis are well known for their courage, bravery and hospitality. They are very warm people who entertain and look after their guests as family members.
They are always willing to recount numerous tales of valour when in the company of their guests. It shows that they want their guests to feel at home by sharing the tales from their lives.
They provide their guests with all the comforts, and make them feel at home. The warmth in their behaviour makes them loveable.
Q6. The narrator shares, “Baking was indeed a profitable profession in the old days.” What do you feel has changed now? Why?
Ans:
With the departure of Portugese from Goa, the custom of Baking being a household profession has taken a back seat.
With the emergence of a host of professional avenues open for people nowadays, the profession of baking has also disappeared.
With passage of time the taste of people for food also changed. With the mushroom growth of fast & junk food choices everywhere, the old traditional food of the people across all cultures has also undergone a sea change.
Q7. Is bread an important part of Goan life? How do you know this?
Bread making is still popular in Goa. We get to know about it owing to the presence of mixers, moulders and those who bake the loaves as well as those time-tested furnaces.
Q1. The culture, lifestyle and traditions of a place are influenced by the people who lived or settled there at some point of time. Cultural assimilation adds flavour to the existing structure of a society. Summarise your opinion on the given idea.
Ans:
The author of ‘A Baker from Goa’ cherishes the traditional practices in Goa. He recalls his encounter with the traditional bakers of Goa. It is true that we, Indians, never forget our cultures and traditions. We are known for our traditional food. This keeps us rooted to our motherland.
It gives us a sense of pride when we think about our practices. The baker in the story represents the class of traditional professionals who are still keeping the old practices alive.
Lucio Rodrigues tells us that when he was a child, he had a good companionship with a baker. He tells that the bread was baked in the furnace. The bakers were called the paders.
In Portuguese time, there were eaters of loaves who cherished traditional bread making.
The author does not live in Goa but he still remembers the old days. He might have forgotten so many things but he still remembers everything about the traditions of Goa.
If any person is seen wearing a half pant that reaches just below the knees or has a plump physique, he is called a baker. This reflects the Goan’s love and respect for their tradition and culture. Their life teaches us a valuable lesson to be connected to our roots.
It helps us in maintaining our identity all over the world. We should not be influenced by Western culture.
Indian tradition is well known for its unity in diversity. We have a rich legacy of culture and values. It is our duty to preserve our heritage and have love and respect for age-old traditions.
Q2. Rajvir did his study before his visit to the tea plantation. Is it good to do one’s research before the start of a new venture or does it take away from the thrill of discovery? Elucidate your stance.
Yes, it is always advisable to study minutely before the start of a new venture. It is so because in the event of extensive research, we develop insights.
Insights help us to further augment our knowledge base and help us carry out our research project when we are confronted with the real life situation.
For example, Rajvir was very excited about his trip to upper Assam. Although an ardent fan of detective stories, he preferred to look out of the train window and admire the scenery instead of reading a book.
He was thrilled to see the seemingly endless greenery of the hills for the first time. He started recounting facts and legends about tea immediately after spotting a tea garden.
Rajvir had already been reading as much as he could about tea before embarking on the train journey.
After they reached their destination, the Dekhiabari Tea Estate, he impressed Pranjol's father with his knowledge of the cycle of tea leaves' growth.
Rajvir knew from his previous research study that the tea leaves ono Mr. Barua’s plantation were in the sprouting period, which lasted from May to July and yielded the best tea.
So excited was he about his trip to the tea plantations that he intended to spend his vacation trying to learn more about tea.
Thus we come to see that it is always better to have prior knowledge about something we are interested in so that it aids in the experimentation process.
Q3. In the chapter, ‘A Baker from Goa’ the narrator talks about his childhood in Goa and his fond memories. Explain with reference to the story.
The author reminisced about the traditional baker from Goa, who has been an important part of the historical and cultural fabric of Goan life.
He writes that the Goan baker has been around since the time of the Portuguese colonists.
During his childhood, the elders in the family would reminisce nostalgically about the good old days of the Portuguese.
The colonists have left Goa, but the baker and the tradition of baking still remains.
The mixers, moulders and furnaces of the baker and bread-seller still exist.
When the author was a child,the baker used to visit their household twice every day, announcing his arrival with the jingling sound of his bamboo staff, which can still be heard in some places. He would bring loaves for the elders and bread-bangles for the children.
The baker also forms an essential part of traditional ceremonies and festivities. No occasion is complete without bread, cakes, sandwiches, bol and bolinhas.
The baker of those days wore a peculiar dress known as the kabai. It resembled a long frock reaching down to the knees. They also wore a shirt and long pants. The baker usually collected his bills from each house at the end of the month.
Baking was a profitable profession, and the baker and his family always looked happy and prosperous. They typically had a plump built, which was attributed to their prosperity.
The baker or the pader was like a friend, companion and guide to the people of Goa. He was an indispensable part of the Goan community.
Q4. 'Glimpses of India' portrays three different regions of India, giving an idea of how varied and charming and beautiful our country is. Explain in brief summarising distinct cultures, lifestyles & traditions as described in the story.
The lesson 'Glimpses of India' focuses on three different yet unique places in India to present a picture of diversity.
Goa, Coorg and Assam, each represents a different coordinate on the Indian map, namely, south-west, south and north-east, respectively.
Each place discussed in each chapter gives us a distinct glimpse of the lives and cultures of its inhabitants who are shaped by their own equally distinct history.
Goan culture, for instance, is influenced by the Portuguese. The baker also forms an essential part of traditional ceremonies and festivities. No occasion is complete without bread, cakes, sandwiches, bol and bolinhas.
Coorg culture is shaped by the Greeks and the Arabs. Coorgis are well known for their courage, bravery and hospitality. They are very warm people who entertain and look after their guests as family members.
They are always willing to recount numerous tales of valour when in the company of their guests. It shows that they want their guests to feel at home by sharing the tales from their lives.
Assam is known for its widespread tea plantations. Rajvir was thrilled to see the seemingly endless greenery of the hills for the first time.
Each of the three places has a unique geography. Goa has beaches and bakeries, Coorg has hills with coffee plantations, while Assam's hills are covered with tea gardens.
The authors also bring out the popular occupations amongst certain sections of the society. Bakers, bread sellers, soldiers, farmers, tea- and plantation owners characterise the three places.
Thus, 'Glimpses of India' celebrates the fact that India is a land of immense diversity.
Thanks for buying our content. Update is in progress. Keep visiting the site for answers of all lessons. Upload of all lessons will be complete by January 30, 2023.