Vistas Solution| English CB Questions: CBSE | Class 12 | Board Exam 2025
Take Your English Score to the Next Level in Board Exam, 2025
Index of Lesson Hyperlinks
VISTAS
The Tiger King
CBE Questions of Long Answer Type ( 5 Marks)
Q1. Discuss the irony in the story "Tiger King" regarding the Maharaja's attempts to avoid his predicted death. How do these attempts contribute to his downfall?
Answer: The irony in the story lies in the Maharaja's relentless efforts to avoid his predicted death by a tiger. His obsession with disproving the prophecy leads him to resort to drastic measures like banning tigers, organizing tiger hunts, and caging animals. However, each attempt ironically brings him closer to the tiger that ultimately causes his demise. For example, the story takes an unexpected turn when the Maharaja chooses a wooden toy tiger as a birthday gift for his son. During a playful moment with his son and the toy tiger, a tiny sliver from the wooden toy pierces the Maharaja's right hand. Despite efforts to save him through a surgery conducted by renowned surgeons, the Maharaja does not survive, and the wooden tiger becomes the cause of his death.
This twist in the narrative underscores the concept of fate and irony, fulfilling the chief astrologer's prophecy that the cause of the king's death would be a tiger. The wooden toy tiger, representing the hundredth tiger in the Maharaja's obsession with hunting tigers, becomes an unforeseen instrument of his downfall, bringing the prophecy to fruition.
The incident serves as a poignant reminder that destiny has its own ways of manifesting, and even the most trivial occurrences can have significant and unforeseen consequences. It also emphasizes the theme of the unpredictability of life and the ultimate inevitability of fate, despite human efforts to manipulate or evade it.
2. Analyze the role of the chief astrologer in the story. What insights does his character provide about the theme of fate versus free will?
Answer: In the story "Tiger King" by Kalki Krishnamurthy, the chief astrologer plays a pivotal role in shaping the plot and conveying essential insights about the theme of fate versus free will.
The chief astrologer is introduced as a wise and mysterious character who predicts the Maharaja's death, stating that he will be killed by a tiger. Despite the king's disbelief and attempts to avoid the prophecy, the astrologer remains steadfast in his prediction. His unwavering conviction in the power of fate and destiny serves as a constant reminder of the theme throughout the narrative.
Insights provided by the chief astrologer's character about the theme of fate versus free will include:
1. The Inevitability of Fate: The astrologer's prophecy and subsequent fulfillment of the king's death by a tiger reinforce the idea that some events in life are predestined and unavoidable. This suggests that there are forces beyond human control, and certain aspects of life are governed by fate.
2. The Limitations of Free Will: Despite the Maharaja's attempts to manipulate events and prove the astrologer wrong, he cannot escape his fate. The character of the chief astrologer showcases the limitations of free will, as human actions may not always alter the course of predetermined events.
3. Acceptance and Humility: The chief astrologer's composed demeanor and unwavering belief in fate represent acceptance and humility in the face of the unknown. His character encourages readers to embrace the unpredictability of life and be humble in acknowledging the things that lie beyond human understanding and control.
4. The Interplay Between Belief and Reality: The character of the chief astrologer highlights the interplay between beliefs and reality. The king's skepticism and arrogance clash with the astrologer's profound belief in his prediction. In the end, the astrologer's prophecy comes true, suggesting that one's beliefs, whether in fate or free will, can influence their actions and experiences.
5. A Lesson in the Complexity of Life: The chief astrologer's character adds depth to the story by portraying life as a tapestry of intricate connections and outcomes. It reminds readers that the paths of fate and free will are intricately woven together, and both play a role in shaping one's life journey.
Overall, the chief astrologer in "Tiger King" serves as a conduit for exploring the delicate balance between fate and free will. His unwavering prediction and the subsequent events in the story challenge readers to ponder the mysteries of existence, the role of destiny in human lives, and the significance of acceptance and humility in the face of life's uncertainties.
3. What symbolic significance does the tiger hold in the story "Tiger King"? How does it relate to the themes of conservation and balance in nature?
Answer: In the story "Tiger King" by Kalki Krishnamurthy, the tiger holds significant symbolic significance and relates to the themes of conservation and balance in nature.
1. Symbolic Significance of the Tiger:
The tiger symbolizes various aspects throughout the story. It represents power, strength, and the untamed forces of nature. The tiger is often associated with fear and danger, reflecting the Maharaja's insecurities and the unpredictability of life. Additionally, the tiger is a recurring motif, embodying the prophecy that the cause of the Maharaja's death will be a tiger. It becomes a symbol of fate and destiny, underscoring the story's exploration of the interplay between fate and free will. Moreover, the tiger's role as the hundredth tiger, unexpectedly found in the form of a wooden toy, adds a touch of irony, highlighting the complexities and twists of destiny.
2. Themes of Conservation and Balance in Nature:
The story also touches on themes of conservation and the delicate balance in nature. The Maharaja's obsession with tiger hunting leads to a drastic reduction in the tiger population in his kingdom. His unchecked desire for power and control disrupts the ecological balance, causing chaos and fear among both the tiger population and the people. The proclamation banning tiger hunting by anyone except the Maharaja reflects his attempt to assert authority over nature, but it only leads to unintended consequences. This depletion of tigers in his realm ultimately forces him to seek tigers in his father-in-law's state, contributing to a similar disruption of balance there. This portrayal highlights the importance of preserving wildlife and maintaining ecological harmony, urging readers to consider the consequences of human actions on the natural world.
In summary, the tiger in "Tiger King" serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing power, fate, and the untamed aspects of nature. It also plays a crucial role in illustrating the themes of conservation and the delicate balance in nature.
4. How does the story "Tiger King" reflect the concept of karma and the consequences of one's actions?
Answer: The story "Tiger King" reflects the concept of karma, which means that our actions have consequences that come back to affect us. In the story, the Maharaja is told by an astrologer that he will die because of a tiger. To avoid this fate, he becomes obsessed with killing tigers. However, his actions lead to the depletion of tiger populations and disrupt the balance of nature. Despite his efforts to avoid the prophecy, he eventually meets his tragic end when a wooden toy tiger, meant as a gift for his son, causes his death. This shows that our actions have consequences, and trying to escape the results of our actions may not always work. The story serves as a reminder that we should be mindful of our actions and treat others and nature with care, as what goes around comes around.
5. How does the story explore the theme of power and its corrupting influence on Maharaja?
Answer: The story delves into the theme of power and its corrupting influence on the Maharaja. As the ruler of Pratibandhpuram, the Maharaja holds absolute power, which fuels his desire for control and validation. His obsession with tiger hunting becomes a means to exhibit his authority and strength, as he seeks to prove himself invincible. The unlimited power bestowed upon him results in reckless decision-making, such as banning tiger hunting by others and imposing taxes on a village out of anger. This unchecked power blinds him to the consequences of his actions and leads to the loss of jobs for his officers. The story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of absolute power and the importance of responsible leadership, where power must be wielded with wisdom and empathy.
6. Analyze the symbolic significance of the wooden toy tiger in the story. How does its role as the hundredth tiger add depth to the theme of fate and the consequences of one's actions?
Answer: The wooden toy tiger holds significant symbolic importance in the story. It represents the ultimate irony and twist of fate, serving as the hundredth tiger in the Maharaja's obsession with tiger hunting. The wooden toy, meant to be a harmless gift for his son's birthday, becomes the unintended instrument of the Maharaja's downfall. This twist adds depth to the theme of fate, illustrating that destiny can manifest in unexpected and ironic ways. It also emphasizes the consequences of one's actions, as the Maharaja's relentless pursuit of tiger hunting leads to an ironic and fatal outcome. The wooden toy tiger showcases the complexities of life, where the smallest of actions can have profound and unforeseen repercussions, reflecting the unpredictability of destiny.
7. Reflect on the character development of the Maharaja throughout the story. How does his obsession with tiger hunting reveal his inner conflicts and insecurities?
Answer: The character development of the Maharaja in the story shows a transformation from an ordinary young ruler to an obsessed and insecure king. Initially, he is portrayed as an extraordinary child, but his insecurity about the prophecy of his death by a tiger drives him to take extreme measures to avoid his fate. His obsession with tiger hunting is a manifestation of his inner conflicts, where he seeks to prove his invincibility and assert control over his destiny. The tiger hunts become a way for him to validate his self-worth and prove himself as a powerful ruler. However, his continuous pursuit of tiger hunting highlights his underlying fear and vulnerability, leading to impulsive and reckless decisions. This inner conflict between his desire for validation and his fear of the prophecy ultimately shapes his tragic fate.
8. Analyze the impact of the Maharaja's impulsive nature on his decision-making and the kingdom's governance.
Answer: The Maharaja's impulsive nature significantly impacts his decision-making and the governance of the kingdom. He acts on whims and emotions rather than considering the consequences of his actions. His impulsive decision to impose a tax increase on the village, out of frustration over not finding the hundredth tiger, reflects his lack of rationality and empathy towards his people. His refusal to leave the forest until the tiger is found leads to a prolonged and reckless pursuit, causing unrest and chaos among his officers and subjects. The kingdom's governance suffers as many officers lose their jobs, and the Maharaja's impulsive actions lead to an atmosphere of fear and unpredictability. This impulsive behavior highlights the dangers of hasty decisions in a ruler and emphasizes the need for sound judgment and thoughtfulness in governance.
The Third Level
Q1. What would have Sam done in Galesburg for his living? Why? [CBSE 2020]
Ans: In the story "The Third Level" by Jack Finney, Sam, the protagonist's friend and psychiatrist, would have set up a business selling hay, feed, and grain in Galesburg. The story implies this because in the note he left for the protagonist, Sam mentioned that he had found the third level and that he would be starting a nice little hay, feed, and grain business. This indicates that Sam's true passion was to be in the farming or agricultural business, and he saw the opportunity to fulfill that dream in the past, specifically in Galesburg, Illinois, in the year 1894. Since he couldn't pursue this in the present time, going back to the past gave him a chance to pursue his desired profession.
Q2. Why does Sam think that Charlie's visit to Galesburg is a “wakingdream wish fulfilment”? Explain. [CBSE Question Bank 2021]
Sam believes Charlie's visit to Galesburg is a "waking-dream wish fulfillment" because Charlie has been expressing a desire to escape from the uncertainties and worries of the modern world. Going back to Galesburg in 1894 provides a way to fulfill that wish and find a peaceful and contented existence.
Q3. ‘The Third Level’ belong to the Science Fiction genre of Time Travel. Explain.
"The Third Level" by Jack Finney belongs to the genre of science fiction with elements of fantasy and time travel. The story presents a captivating blend of reality and imagination, exploring the concept of a hidden third level at Grand Central Station that allows time travel to the past.
Instances from the story that support its classification as science fiction include the protagonist's discovery of a letter from 1894, the existence of the third level, and the possibility of traveling back in time through this mysterious passage. The story blurs the line between present and past, drawing readers into an alternate reality where the protagonist's friend, Sam, mysteriously disappears and communicates from the past.
Additionally, the narrative weaves historical details into the plot, mentioning President Garfield's stamp and using authentic currency from 1894. These elements reinforce the story's science fiction theme by incorporating real-world elements into a fantastical and imaginative context.
Overall, "The Third Level" is a thought-provoking and entertaining science fiction story that combines elements of time travel, historical references, and the exploration of human desires and aspirations in a captivating way.
Q4. Why do you think Charley withdrew nearly all the money he had from the bank to buy old-style currency? [CBSE Question Bank 2021]
Ans: Charley withdrew nearly all the money he had from the bank to buy old-style currency because he was determined to find and experience the third level at Grand Central Station. After receiving the note from his friend Sam, who claimed to have found the third level and was now living in 1894, Charley became intrigued and curious about the possibility of time travel.
By acquiring old-style currency, Charley believed he could somehow access the past through the third level. He wanted to replicate Sam's experience and travel back to a different time, specifically the year 1894. Charley's decision to invest his money in old-style bills was driven by his strong desire to escape from the worries and uncertainties of the modern world and explore a simpler and more peaceful time in the past.
Q5. How would you evaluate Sam’s character? Elucidate any two qualities, and substantiate with evidence from the text.
Sam's character can be evaluated as adventurous and brave, as well as caring and thoughtful.
1. Adventurous and Brave:
Sam's adventurous spirit is evident from the fact that he was willing to explore the mysterious third level at Grand Central Station, which ultimately led him to travel back in time to the year 1894. Despite the uncertainty and risks involved in such an endeavor, Sam took the leap and embarked on this extraordinary journey. His bravery is also reflected in the way he adapted to his new surroundings in the past and made a life for himself there. He didn't shy away from exploring a different era and making the most of his experiences.
2. Caring and Thoughtful:
The evidence of Sam's caring and thoughtful nature can be seen in the note he left for Charley, the protagonist. In the note, Sam expresses his concern for Charley's happiness and invites him and Louisa to join him in the past. He doesn't want his friend to be burdened by the worries of the modern world and encourages him to continue searching for the third level. Sam's decision to communicate with Charley and extend the invitation to join him in 1894 demonstrates his thoughtful and caring nature, as he wants his friend to experience the same joy and contentment he has found in the past.
In conclusion, Sam's character in "The Third Level" is characterized by his adventurous and brave spirit, which led him to explore the unknown, as well as his caring and thoughtful nature, which is evident in the way he reaches out to his friend and offers him the chance to experience the same happiness he has found in the past.
Q6. At the beginning of the story, Sam is sceptical of Charley’s discovery of the third level. By the end of the story, the reader is told that he found the third level and travelled back in time. How would Sam diagnose himself?
Ans: If Sam were to diagnose himself based on his experiences in the story, he would likely consider his time travel to the past and discovery of the third level as a form of "waking-dream wish fulfillment." This is because, at the beginning of the story, Sam is initially skeptical of Charley's claims about the third level and dismisses it as an escapist fantasy. He sees it as Charley's desire to escape from the complexities and challenges of the modern world.
However, as the story progresses, Sam becomes more open-minded and curious about the possibility of the third level. He ultimately discovers the hidden passage himself and travels back to the year 1894. This transformation in his beliefs and experiences could lead him to realize that the third level represents a fulfilling and idealized version of the past, a place where he can find contentment and happiness.
Sam might diagnose himself as having engaged in a form of wish fulfillment because the third level offers an escape to a simpler, more peaceful time where he can pursue his true passions and desires, such as starting a hay, feed, and grain business. It becomes a way for him to fulfill his deepest wishes and find a sense of fulfillment that he may not have had in his present reality as a psychiatrist in the modern world.
Q7. Imagine that you come across Louisa’s diary. What might you find in it about the third level? Compose at least one diary entry based on any of the events from the story, ‘The Third Level’. [CBSE Question Bank 2021]
Diary Entry:
July 20, 2023
Dear Diary,
Today has been an extraordinary day, and I can hardly believe what Charley and I have experienced. It all started with that mysterious note from Sam, Charley's friend and psychiatrist. He talked about this elusive "third level" at Grand Central Station, which supposedly leads to a different time - the year 1894! At first, I couldn't help but think it was all a wild imagination or a prank, but Charley's determination to find it intrigued me.
We spent weeks searching, and today, Charley finally discovered the hidden corridor that led to the third level. As we stepped into the past, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. The scene that unfolded before us was like a dream - people dressed in nineteenth-century attire, gaslight illuminating the station, and the sound of an old-time locomotive in the distance.
We met Sam, just as his note had suggested, and he seemed content and at ease in this simpler world. His excitement was infectious, and he invited us to join him in experiencing life in the past. The idea was both exhilarating and daunting, but the allure of a peaceful existence without the modern world's worries was tempting.
As Charley and I stood there, surrounded by the charm of 1894, we couldn't help but wonder about the possibilities. The thought of starting anew, free from the burdens of the present, was enchanting. We didn't make a decision right away, but the experience left us longing for more. The third level holds a promise of a different life, one that may be worth exploring further.
Until next time,
Louisa
Answers from all Lessons are being updated on a daily basis. Thanks for subscribing to this premium content.
Keep Visiting the site.
Recommended Reading
.png)