The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales

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CLASSICAL POETRY
ADMUND SPENSER AND SHAKESPEARE SONNETS
Short Questions
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(i) Why is Spenser called 'The Poets' Poet'?

Ans. Spenser was first called "The Poets' Poet" by the English essayist Charles
Lamb because his poetic faculty was unique, his greatness was immediately
recognized, he coached many poets, and a host of poets followed him. Milton,
Browne, and two Fletchers were his professed disciples.
(ii) What are Spenser's intentions in writing 'The Faerie Queen'?
Ans. Spenser's aim in writing "The Faerie Queene" was to a create a great national
literature for England, equal to the classic epic poems of Homer and Virgil. The
poem is dedicated to Elizabeth I, who is represented in the poem as the Faerie
Queene herself.
(iii) What is Spenserian Stanza?
Ans. The Spenserian Stanza is a fixed verse form invented by Edmund Spenser for
his epic poem "The Faerie Queene". Each stanza contains nine lines in total: eight
lines in iambic pentameter followed by a single 'alexandrine' line in iambic
hexameter. The rhyme scheme of these lines is 'ababbcbcc."
(iv) Who is Una?
Ans. Una is Redcross's future wife, and the other major protagonist in Book I. She is
meek, humble, and beautiful, but strong when it is necessary; she represents Truth,
which Redcross must find in order to be a true Christian.
(v) Why does Redcross Knight abandon Una?
Ans. The Redcross Knight abandons Una because he believes the deception of the
Archimago, which pretends to show that Una is not chaste.
(vi) Which of the moral virtues does Redcross Knight represent?
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Ans. The Redcross Knight represents holiness. He is bearing the symbol of Jesus
Christ upon his shield. His brand of holiness includes moral and theological purity,
as he fights deceptive monsters on behalf of his lady Una.
(vii) What role does Archimago play in 'The Faerie Queen'?
Ans. Archimago is a sorcerer. His name means "Arch-Image". In the narrative, he is
continually engaged in deceitful magics, as when he makes a false Una to tempt the
Red-Cross Knight into lust, and when he failed, conjures another image, of a squire,
to deceive the knight into believing that Una was false to him.
(viii) What is 'the house of Morpheus'?
Ans. Mopheus is the god of sleeps and dreams. It lives in a mystical cave that seems
far removed from reality. This cave is called "the house of Morpheus".
(ix) What is meant by a Ballad?
Ans. A narrative poem, often of folk origin and intended to be sung, consisting of
simple stanzas and usually having a refrain. The Anonymous medieval ballad,
"Barbara Allan", exemplifies the genre.
(x) What is a sonnet?
Ans. A sonnet is a poem of fourteen lines using any of a number of formal rhyme
schemes. In English, a sonnet has 3 quatrains followed by a couplet and ten
syllables per line. (iambic pentameter). It usually expresses a single, complete
thought, idea or sentiment. Examples include P.B. Shelley's "Ozymandias" and
John Keats' "When I Have Fears".
(xi) Explain the rhyme scheme in a sonnet.
Ans. The Petrarchan or Italian sonnet has the rhyme scheme ABBAABBA
CDECDE. The Shakespearean sonnet has the rhyme scheme ABAB CDCD EFEF
GG. The Spenserian sonnet is a variation of the English sonnet with the rhyme
scheme ABAB BCBC CDCD EE.
(xii) What is a Shakespearean Sonnet?
Ans. A Shakespearean Sonnet is a poem expressive of though, emotion or idea. It is
composed of three quatrains and a terminal couplet in iambic pentameter with the
rhyme scheme abab cdcd efef gg. It is also call Elizabeth Sonnet or English Sonnet.
(xiii) How many Sonnets did Shakespeare write?
Ans. Shakespeare wrote 154 sonnets which were collected together and published
posthumously in 1609 by Thomas Thorpe.
(xiv) What are the major themes of Shakespeare's sonnets?

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Ans. Different types of romantic love, the dangers of lust and love, Platonic love vs.
carnal lust, real beauty vs. cliched beauty, the responsibilities of being beautiful,
the ravages of time, selfishness and greed, self-deprecation and inadequacy,
homoerotic desire and financial bondage are the major themes of Shakespeare's
sonnets.
(xv) Who is Shakespeare's Dark Lady?
Ans. Twenty-four of Shakespeare's sonnets are addressed to a mysterious woman
called Dark Lady. Scholars believe that she could be one of four historical women:
Mary Fitton, a lady in waiting to Queen Elizabeth; Lucy Morgan, a brothel owner
and former maid to Queen Elizabeth; Emilia Lanier, the mistress of Lord Hunsdon,
patron of the arts; and the mother of his illegitimate son Devanant.
Write the Rhyme scheme of a Shakespearean sonnets?

The rhyme scheme of Shakespearean sonnets is abab cdcd efef gg.
What, in general, is the theme of Shakespearean sonnets?

The general themes in Shakespearean sonnets are love, disloyalty of beloved,
immortality of art, admiration of beloved, art vs. time and power of time etc.
How does Shakespeare compare his beloved to a summer’s day?

Summer in Europe is pleasant due to greenery and flowers but Shakespeare says
that his beloved is more beautiful than summer’s day, summer’s day may be hot or
cool and the beauty of summer fade away. His beloved remains beautiful as
preserved in this poem.
Define sonnet?
Sonnet is a poem of fourteen lines written in iambic pentameter and having some
rhyming scheme.
Who is ‘Dark Lady’ in Shakespearean sonnets?

Mary Fitton is the dark lady in Shakespearean sonnets.

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Why was Knight Red Cross accompanying Una?

Lady Una appealed Queen Gloriana to help her because her father and mother
enclose in a castle by a dragon. Queen Gloriana of Faerie Land has employed the
Red Cross Knight to go with Lady Una to kill the dragon that is destroying the land
and seizing Una’s parents imprisoned.
Who was Archimago?

Archimago is a magician, deceitful and an antagonist next to Duessa. He is a
magician skillful of varying his own look but at the end his magic is proven weak
and unsuccessful.
What appeal does Una make to the Queen?

In the annual twelve-day feast by Queen Gloriana, it is custom that anyone who is
in trouble can appear before the court and ask for help. Lady Una complains that
her parents are seized in a fortress by a dragon. The Red Cross Knight proposes to
help her.
What role does Archimago play in “The Faerie Queene”?

Archimago plays the role of a deceiver and a magician. He disguises himself as Red
Cross Knight in an effort to get Una. He misguided the Una and Red Cross Knight
through lies and false appearances.
Why does Knight Red Cross help Lady Una?

On the appeal of Fair Lady Una, Queen Gloriana of the Faerie land sent Knight Red
Cross to go with Lady Una to kill the dragon that seized the Unna’s parents in a
fortress.
Define Epic?
An epic is a long narrative poem on a grand scale about the deeds of heroes and
warriors. Famous epics in English literature are ‘Paradise Lost’ by Milton and
‘Faerie Queene’ by Edmund Spenser.

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Define Allegory?
Allegory is a story in verse or prose with dual meaning, surface meaning and under
surface meaning. Example: Rape of the lock, Fairy queen etc.
Define Spenserian stanza?

The Spenserian stanza is a nine line stanza, it consist of eight iambic pentameters
lines and one iambic hexameter line, the rhyme scheme of stanza is ababbcbcc. This
type of stanza he used in “Faerie Queene”.
Define Alexandrine?
An Alexandrine is a line of poetry, it consist of six feet iambic (iambic hexameter).
The ninth line of Spenserian stanza is Alexandrine. It is common in French poetry
but rare in English poetry.
Who called Spenser “Poets’ Poet”?

Charles Lamb who is an essayist called the Edmund Spenser “Poets’ Poet”.
What represents the Knight of the Red Cross?
Knight of the Red Cross in “Faerie Queene” is the hero of the epic and he represents
the virtue of holiness, St. George and the Anglican Church.
THE PROLOGUE TO THE CANTERBURY TALES

Short Questions

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(i) Define poetry.

Ans. Poetry is a form of literature that uses aesthetic and rhythmic qualities of
language -- such as phonaesthetics, sound symbolism, and metre -- to evoke
meanings in addition to, or in place of, the prosaic ostensible meaning.
(ii) Define alliteration.
Ans. Alliteration is a stylistic device in which a number of words, having the same
first consonant sound, occur close together in a series of multiple words. For
example, A big bully beats a baby boy.
(iii) What do you mean by accent?
Ans. Accent is a rhythmically significant stress on the syllables of a verse within a
particular metrical pattern, usually at regular intervals. In basic analysis of a poem
by scansion, accents are represented with a slash (/).
(iv) What is apostrophe?
Ans. Apostrophe is an exclamatory figure of speech in which the poet addresses an
absent person, an abstract idea, or personification. For example, "O death, where is
thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?"
(v) How is a simile different from a metaphor?
Ans. A simile directly compares two things with the help of words "like" or "as". For
example, "Her cheeks are red like a rose". Whereas, metaphor identifies something
as being the same as some unrelated thing. For example, "All the world's a stage".
(vi) Define humour.
Ans. Humour is the quality of a literary or informative work that makes the
character and/or situation seem funny, laughable, amusing, or ludicrous.
(vii) Define irony.
Ans. Irony is a contrast or discrepancy between what is said and what is meant or
between what happens and what is expected to happen. For example, "The butter is
as soft as a marble piece."
(viii) Define satire.
Ans. Satire is a technique employed to expose and criticize foolishness and
corruption of an individual or a society by using humour, irony, wit, exaggeration or
ridicule.
(ix) What do you understand by understatement?

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Ans. An understatement, the opposite of hyperbole, is a literary device in which a

writer or speaker attributes less importance or conveys less passion than the
subject would seem to demand. For example, "The desert is sometimes dry and
sandy" is an understatement.
(x) What do you understand by Renaissance?
Ans. The Renaissance is a period from the 14th to the 17th century. It was a time of
great social and cultural change in Europe. It was the "rebirth" of classical
literature. Shakespeare, Donne, Herbert, Ben Jonson and Milton are important
literary figures of this period.
(xi) What is the important about the fact that 'The Prologue' is set in the month of
April?
Ans. The month of April is the start of spring. The spring is a symbol of the new
beginnings and the creation of new lives the pilgrims are about to undertake. So
"The Prologue" is set in the month of April.
(xii) Who was St. Thomas A. Becket?
Ans. St. Thomas Becket, born in London, England, on December 21, 1118, was the
Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 until his murder in 1170 by King Henry II'
knights. The king had ordered his murder for refusing to give the monarchy power
over the church.
(xiii) What is Chaucer's contribution to English Literature?
Ans. Chaucer is the father of English poetry. He made experiments in versification
and gave it a new shape. "The Canterbury Tales" is said to be the first element of
drama that gave rise to drama. He is certainly the grandfather of the English novel.
(xiv) Which dialect did Chaucer use for his poetry?
Ans. Before Chaucer, English language was divided into a number of dialects. The
four of them vastly prominent then the others were: the Southern, the Midland, the
Northern, the Kentish. Chaucer used East Midland dialect for his poetry.
(xv) What is the purpose of 'The Prologue'?
Ans. The purpose of 'The Prologue" is twofold: to introduce the characters who are
making their pilgrimage to the Canterbury and the framework of the stories to
follow.
Name some important characters in ‘The Prologue’?

The important characters are the host, the village parson, the knight etc.

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List the ecclesiastical characters in ‘The Prologue’?

The ecclesiastical characters are Prioress, nun, priest, Friar, monk, the village
parson, the summoner and pardoner.
What are some of the places where the Knight has fought?
Knight has fought in Christendom and heathen lands, Alexandria, Prussia,
Lithuania and Russia, Granada, Lyes, Attalia and Turkey.
What is the actual name of Prioress?

The actual name of Prioress is Madame Eglantine.
Do you like anything special in Chaucer’s description of the Prioress?

Chaucer specially described the manner of eating, her speaking in French and her
forehead.
How many husbands The Wife of Bath had?

She had five husbands at the church door, besides other company in her youth.
When the Parson asks allegorically, “if gold rust, what would the iron do?” what is
he talking about?
Parson means the guide or the leader himself corrupted than what will be the
common man do.
What song could the Pardoner sing?

Pardoner sang an offertory.( the portion of the mass sung while the faithful present
their offerings)

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Why do the pilgrims go to the shrine of St. Beckett?

The pilgrims go to see the shrine of blessed martyr (St. Beckett) who helped them
when they were sick.
Why did the assorted people stay at Tabard Inn?

They were pilgrims and by chance had fallen in fellowship. They wanted to ride to
Canterbury.
Why are the showers of April sweet?

In Europe the month of April is pleasant and beginning of spring season. So, the
poet says it the showers of April sweet.
Why is Chaucer called the father of English Poetry?

Chaucer was the first who had written poetry in English language. Before Chaucer
there were different dialects but Chaucer used one and gave it worth and made it a
language.
Questions
1. How many pilgrims are making the journey to Canterbury?
2. Why are all these people going to Canterbury?
3. List the members of the middle class in the group.
4. List the members of the clergy.
5. Which members of the clergy appear to be corrupt or sinful?
6. What plan for the group does the Host propose?

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7. How does Chaucer himself fit into the group?
8. By what devices does Chaucer reveal his characters?
9. How many of the tales did Chaucer actually complete?
10. What weaknesses within the Church do the pilgrim clergy represent?
Answers
1. There are 30 characters including Chaucer and the Host.
2. They are going to the Shrine of St. Thomas à Becket at Canterbury. They hope to
receive special blessings.
3. The middle class group consists of the following: the Merchant; the Man of Law;
the Franklin; the Haberdasher; the Carpenter; the Weaver; the Dyer; the Tapestry-
Maker; the Shipman; the Physician; the Wife of Bath; the Miller; the Manciple; the
Reeve; and the Host.
4. The clergy members are as follow: the Prioress; the Monk; the Friar; the Nun; the
Priest; the Cleric; the Parson; the Summoner; and the Pardoner.
5. The Monk; the Pardoner; the Friar; and the Summoner appear corrupt.
6. Each traveler will tell four stories: two on the way to Canterbury and two on the
return trip.
7. Chaucer is the anonymous Narrator. He is also one of the pilgrims.

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8. Chaucer reveals his characters by direct description, the telling comment, and the
tale each traveler tells.
9. There are twenty-three tales, two of which are fragments.
10. The clergy represent corruption, greed, and abuse of power in the Church.
John Donne
Short Questions
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(i) What is John Donne considered to be?

Ans. John Donne (1572 - 1631) was an English poet and a cleric in the Church of
England. He is considered the pre-eminent representative of the metaphysical
poets. He is often considered the greatest love poet in the English language. He is
also noted for his religious verse.
(ii) Define metaphysical poetry?
Ans. Metaphysical poetry is highly intellectualized poetry marked by bold and
ingenious conceits, incongruous imagery, complexity and subtlety of though,
frequent use of paradox, and often by deliberate harshness or rigidity of expression.
John Donne, Henry Vaughan and Andrew Marvell are famous metaphysical poets.
(iii) What is a theme?
Ans. Theme is the main, fundamental and universal idea or an underlying meaning
of a literary work that may be stated directly or indirectly. It unifies and controls
the entire literary work. For example, the main theme in the play "Romeo and
Juliet" is love with smaller themes of sacrifice, tragedy, struggle, hardship, devotion
and so on.

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(iv) What are some common themes in the poems of John Donne?
Ans. Love as both physical and spiritual, religion, death and the hereafter,
paradoxes, belittling cosmic forces, interconnectedness of humanity, and fidelity are
the common themes in the poem of John Donne.
(v) What is the difference between Donne's love poems and divine poems?
Ans. The theme of love poems and divine poems is different. Love poems describe
three kinds of love; cynical, conjugal and Platonic. Divine poems describe two notes;
the Catholic and the Anglican. However, the thought and spirit behind the two
categories of poems is same.
(vi) What are the three moods of love in Donne's poems?
Ans. The first mood of love is cynical. It celebrates the physical appetite, notably
presented in the "Elegies". The second mood of love is conjugal. It is a mutually
enjoyed love between man and woman as found in "A Valediction: Forbidding
Mourning". Thirdly, there is the Platonic love, as in "The Canonization", where love
is regarded as a holy emotion like the worship of a devotee of God.
(vii) How does Donne distinguish between physical and spiritual love?
Ans. "Physical love" is the love that is primarily based upon the sensation or the
presence of the beloved or that emphasizes sexuality whereas "spiritual love" is
based on higher and more refined feelings than sensation. As a Metaphysical poet,
Donne uses physical loved to evoke spiritual love.
(viii) What is a cynical love?
Ans. Cynicism is an attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a general
distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others. So cynical love is anti-
woman and hostile to the fair sex. It indicates the frailty of man -- a matter of
advantage for lovers who like casual and extra-marital relations with ladies.
(ix) How is Donne's life reflected in his poetry?
Ans. Several major events in Donne's life -- his marriage, his conversion to
Anglicanism, his wife's early death, illness, and his elevation to the Deanship of St.
Paul's -- can be seen in his poetry.
(x) How is death treated in Donne's poetry?
Ans. Death is treated both as a reality of life and as an abstract concept. For Donne
death is not necessarily somber but provides a transition moment -- often a climax --
denoting a change of state. "Death Be Not Proud", personifies Death as a powerless
being who cannot survive past the Resurrection; ultimately, all people will reach
their metaphysical states.

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(xi) What is an allusion?

Ans. An allusion is a casual reference to a person, place, event, or another passage
of literature, often without explicit identification. Allusions can originate in
mythology, biblical references, historical events, legends, geography, or earlier
literary works. For example, "Don't act like a Romeo in front of her." - "Romeo" is a
reference to Shakespeare's Romeo, a passionate lover of Juliet in "Romeo and
Juliet".
(xii) What is a conceit?
Ans. Conceit is a figure of speech in which two vastly different objects are likened
together with the help of similes, metaphors, imagery, hyperbole and oxymora. One
of the most famous conceits is John Donne's "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning",
a poem in which Donne compares two souls in love to the points on a geometer's
compass.
(xiii) What is hyperbole?
Ans. Hyperbole is the use of exaggeration as a rhetorical device or figure of speech.
It is used to create emphasis on a situation. It may be used to evoke strong feelings
or to create a strong impression, but is not to meant to be taken literally. For
example, "I had to wait in the station for ten days - an eternity". (The Heart of
Darkness by Joseph Conrad)
(xiv) Why do you mean by elegy?
Ans. An elegy is a mournful, melancholic or plaintive poem in the form of elegiac
couplets. It is usually a funeral song or a lament for the dead. "Elegy Written in a
Country Churchyard" by Thomas Gray and "When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard
Bloom'd" by Walt Whitman are the most popular examples of elegy.
(xv) How many elegies did Donne write?
Ans. Donne wrote 20 elegies. These include: Jealosie, The Anagram, Change, The
Perfume, His Picture, Oh, Let Me Not Serve, Natures Lay Ideot, The Comparison,
The Autumnall, The Dreame, The Bracelet, His Parting From Her, Julia, A Tale of
a Citizen and His Wife, The Expostulation, On His Mistris, Variety, Loves Progress,
To His Mistris Going to Bed and Love War.
What is sensuous love?

Sensuous love is a physical love or sexual love. In this love the animal passion for
bodily love.

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Define conjugal love in Donne’s poems?

Conjugal love is the married life. Donne’s poem “A Valediction: forbidding
mourning” is one example of conjugal love.
What are the three moods of love in Donne’s poems?

The three moods of love in Donne’s poetry are cynical love (anti woman), conjugal
love(married life) and Platonic love(spiritual).
What is metaphysical conceit?

Metaphysical conceit is a comparison between spiritual aspects and worldly things.
In other words the two heterogeneous ideas were yoked together. For example: “He
compares himself and his beloved with two hemispheres of the world ” in ‘Good
Morrow‘ by John Donne.
Define metaphysical poetry?

Metaphysical poetry is a highly intellectualized poetry with the use of wit, imagery,
conceits and paradox etc. It is obscure and rigid. For example: “John Donne’s
poetry“.
What do you understand by the term Renaissance?

Renaissance means rebirth. It is rebirth of the literature. It is a literary movement
in which the traditional ideas and rules were broken and new literature is produced
with new ideas. Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe are the main writers of the
Renaissance.
What is the dramatic monologue?

A verse form in which a single character expresses his feelings and thoughts is
called dramatic monologue. For example: “Sun Rising” and “The Flea” by John
Donne.

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What is conceit?
Conceit is a comparison between to unlike things to create extended meanings. For
example “Her eyes are heavenly stars“.
Define Wit?
Wit is a mental ability to create inventive and clever remarks to create humour. For
example: “Divorces are made in heaven“.
Paradise Lost
Short Questions
(i) What is an epic?

Ans. An epic is a lengthy narrative poem, ordinarily concerning a serious subject
containing details of heroic deeds and events significant to a culture or nation
narrated in elevated style. For example, Homer's "Iliad" is an epic.
(ii) What is a blank verse?
Ans. Blank verse is a category of poetry based on unrhymed lines and a definite
meter, usually of iambic pentameter. Examples of blank verse can be found in
Shakespeare, William Cullen Bryant, and Robert Frost.
(iii) What is a free verse?
Ans. Free verse is an open form of poetry. It does not use consistent meter patterns,
rhyme, or any other musical pattern. It thus tends to follow the rhythm of natural
speech. Examples of free verse can be found in Mathew Arnold, T.S. Eliot and Ezra
Pound.

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(iv) What is a protagonist?

Ans. A protagonist is the central character or leading figure in poetry, drama, novel
or any other literary work. For example, Satan in Milton's "Paradise Lost", Hamlet
in Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and Elizabeth Bennet in Austen's "Pride and Prejudice"
are protagonists.
(v) What does the title of "Paradise Lost" refer to?
Ans. The title of "Paradise Lost" refers to the Biblical story of the Fall of Man: the
temptation of Adam and Eve by the fallen angel Satan and their expulsion from the
Garden of Eden.
(vi) What is the setting of "Paradise Lost"?
Ans. The first two books are set in Hell. Heaven is the setting of Book III and VI.
The Garden of Eden is, for the most part, the setting of the rest of the poem. Time
Setting is before the beginning of time.
(vii) What is the subject of "Paradise Lost"?
Ans. The subject of "Paradise Lost" is a lost paradise as the the central theme to
explain, defend, and vindicate God's action in dealing with succumbing to the
temptation of Satan by Adam and Eve after they eat the forbidden fruit.
(viii) Who are the main characters of "Paradise Lost"?
Ans. Satan, Adam, Eve, God, the Son, Devils (Beelzebub), and Angels (Michael) are
the main characters of "Paradise Lost".
(ix) For what does Milton invoke the Heavenly Muse?
Ans. Muses are nine goddesses who preside over the arts and sciences, Milton
invokes his muse, whom he identifies as the Holy Spirit, to fill his mind with divine
knowledge and guidance in his great work of singing about man's disobedience and
the consequent loss of Paradise.
(x) Why Adam and Even were expelled from Paradise?
Ans. Satan, in the disguise of a serpent, convinced Eve to eat the Forbidden Fruit.
She in turn convinced Adam to have a taste. As a result of Adam and Eve's sin of
eating the Forbidden Fruit, they were expelled from Paradise.
(xi) Why does Eve eat the forbidden fruit?
Ans. Satan, in the disguise of a serpent, entered Paradise. Finding Eve alone, he
flattered her beauty and godliness. Eve was amazed to see a creature of the Garden
speak. Satan told her that he had gained the gift of speech by eating a particular
fruit. Even was seriously tempted and ate the Forbidden Fruit.

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(xii) Is Eve to blame for the fall?

Ans. It's hard to blame Eve alone for the fall. Both Eve and Adam were given free
will. Eve ate first, but Adam also ate the Forbidden Fruit. If Adam was not able to
resist his wife, how could he resist Satan?
(xiii) For what sin was Satan cast out of Heaven?
Ans. Satan became vain about his beauty and position, and his heart became
rebellious against God. As a punishment, God cast him out of heaven and sent him
to earth for his sin - the revolt against God.
(xiv) How long did it take Satan to fall from Heaven to Hell?
Ans. It took nine days and nine nights for Satan to fall from Heaven to Hell.
(xv) What demon is floating alongside Satan in the fiery lake at the beginning of the
poem?
Ans. It was Beelzebub, Satan's second in command in the hierarchy of fallen angels
who was floating alongside Satan in the fiery lake at the beginning of the poem.
What is pandemonium?
In “Paradise Lost’ Satan and fallen angels built a palace that was called ‘
Pandemonium’. In this palace fallen angels assemble for meeting.
Define epic?
An epic is a long narrative poem on a grand scale about the deeds of heroes and
warriors.
Define free verse?

Free verse is a type of poetry has no regular meter and line length. It depends on
natural speech’s rhythms and stressed and unstressed syllables.
Define blank verse?

Blank verse is one kind of poetry written in unrhymed iambic pentameter. It’s
meter is natural to English language.

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What does the title of “Paradise Lost” refer to?

The title of the “Paradise Lost” refers to the Biblical story of Adam and Eve eviction
from the Garden of Eden.
What is the setting of “Paradise Lost”?

The setting of the “Paradise Lost” in first two books is Hell and in rest of the books
mostly the setting is Eden.
What is the subject of “Paradise Lost”?

Subject of “Paradise Lost” is the eviction of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden.
Who are the main characters of “Paradise Lost”?

The main characters are Adam, Eve, Satan, Beelzebub, Angel Michael, God and the
Son in the “Paradise Lost”.
Why Adam and Eve were expelled from Paradise?

Adam and Eve were expelled from Paradise because they had eaten the forbidden
fruit.
Why does Eve eat the forbidden fruit?

Eve eats the forbidden fruit because Satan in the guise of serpent tells her that she
will get the gift of speech by eating this fruit.
Is Eve to blame for the fall?

It is difficult to blame only Eve for the fall because Eve eats by the deception of
Satan and Adam eats forbidden fruit on Eve request.
What is the subject of “Paradise lost”?

The subject of Paradise Lost is the disobedience of Adam and Eve and eviction from
the garden of Eden.

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What is the difference between the Satan of book-I and that of book-IX?
Satan in book one is most courageous and like hero but in book nine the Satan is
weak.
Why did Satan plan to take revenge on Adam?

Satan plan to take revenge on Adam because it is easy target for him.
What is the theme of “Paradise Lost”?

The major theme in Paradise Lost is biblical story of Adam and Eve and their
disobedience.
Explain ” to reign in Hell is better than serve in Heaven“?

These words spoken by Satan in book one. It means it better that rule in hell than
obedience to God.
How long did it take Satan to fall from Heaven to Hell?

It took nine days for Satan to fall from Heaven to Hell.
What demon is floating alongside Satan in the fiery lake at the beginning of the
poem?
Beelzebub demon is floating alongside Satan in the fiery lake at the beginning of
the poem.
What is the role of Beelzebub in “Paradise Lost”?

Beelzebub is fully faithful to Satan and he encourage the Satan for revenge.

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Why did Satan tempt Eve?

Satan tempt Eve because it is easy for him due to the frivolous nature of woman.
Who is the ‘heavenly muse’ in “Paradise Lost”?

Urania is the muse of history and the subject of “Paradise Lost” is also from
historical so, ‘heavenly muse‘ in “Paradise Lost” is Urania and Calliope for Epic
poetry.
What is the name of Satan’s second in command?

Beelzebub is Satan’s second in command.
How many days did it take for Satan to finally speak to Beelzebub?
After three days tossing on the lake, Satan finally speaks to Beelzebub.
What is the aim of ‘Paradise Lost’?

The aim of “Paradise Lost” is “to justify the ways of God to men”.
How well does Milton ‘justify the ways of God to men’?

Milton try the Biblical story of Adam and Eve to justify the ways of God to men.
Book 1 : Questions
1. What is Milton’s main purpose or theme of his epic poem?
2. What is the setting of the opening scene of the poem?
3. Who is next in command to the archangel Satan?
4. What is Satan’s attitude in the beginning of the poem?

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5. In what way does Milton’s enumeration of his fallen angels resemble Homer’s
Iliad?
6. Who leads the fallen angels to dig for gold in Hell? Why?
7. What is the name of the temple that rose out of the ground in Hell?
8. According to Milton, what had many of the pagan gods been before the history of
Man?
9. What are Milton’s basic sources for Paradise Lost?
10. What is the plan of action for the fallen angels and their leaders at the end of
Book I?
Answers
1. Milton intends to “justify the ways of God to men.”
2. Satan and his angels are chained to the burning lake of fire in Hell.
3. Beelzebub is next in command to Satan.
4. Satan is sure that, in spite of his present state in Hell, he will never bow to God.
5. The list of Milton’s fallen angels is an epic convention that resembles the
catalogue of ships in Homer’s Iliad.

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6. Mammon leads the fallen angels to dig for gold in Hell. He wants Hell to equal
Heaven in riches.
7. The temple was called Pandemonium and served as Satan’s capitol in Hell.
8. Milton states that the pagan deities had once been demons in Hell and, before
their rebellion, angels in Heaven.
9. Milton uses the epic poem, emulating Homer and Virgil. He alludes to the Bible
and classical literature for his subject and characterization.
10. Satan and his angels gather in his capitol, Pandemonium, to discuss what they
will do to avenge God.
Book IX: Questions

1. Why is Book IX a central part of the epic poem?
2. What constitutes the climax of Paradise Lost ?
3. In what way is Book IX the turning point of the epic?
4. What is Adam and Eve’s tragic catastrophe?
5. How does the reader feel purged of his/her own emotional conflicts through the
narrative?
6. Where has Satan been hiding for the last seven days?
7. How does Satan enter Paradise?

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8. Why is Eve alone on the day of her temptation and fall?
9. According to the Serpent, what will be the effects of eating the fruit from the Tree
of Knowledge?
10. What are the effects of the fall on Adam and Eve?
Answers
1. Book IX is central to the poem because it contains the climax of the action.
2. The climax of Paradise Lost is “Man’s first disobedience” or the fall of Adam and
Eve.
3. In Book IX the tone is changed to tragic. All subsequent actions will be affected
by the tragic fall in Book IX.
4. Adam and Eve have lost their immortality and will be removed from Paradise.
5. The reader feels purged of his/her own emotional conflicts (sins) by empathizing
with the tragic hero.
6. Satan has been traveling within the dark shadow of the Earth.
7. Satan enters Paradise through the underground fountain of the Tigris River.
8. Eve has suggested to Adam that they work separately so they can get more work
done.

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9. The Serpent tells Eve the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge will make her like a
god.
10. Adam and Eve begin quarreling and blaming each other for their lost state.
The Rape Of The Lock

Short Questions
(i) What does the title of 'The Rape of the Lock' refer to?
Ans. The poem's title might seem confusing until we do a little digging into the
etymology of the word "rape". In the 18th century, in Pope's day, "rape" also meant
to carry away or take something from someone by force. The word "lock" here means
the tress, curl, or ringlet of a woman's hair.
(ii) What is the setting of 'The Rape of the Lock'?
Ans. The action takes place in London and its environs in the early 1700's on a
single day. The story begins at the London residence of Belinda. The scene then
shifts to the Thames. The rest of the story takes place at Hampton Court Palace,
except for a brief scene in the cave of the Queen of Spleen.
(iii) 'The Rape of the Lock' is called a mock epic poem. Why?
Ans. Like typical epics, there is a statement of purpose and invocation to the Muse
in "The Rape of the Lock". It is divided into Cantos and written in heroic couplets.
Moreover, there is use of supernatural machinery. However, there is a satirical
twist in this epic. It satirizes the absurdities and frivolities of the aristocratic ladies
and gentlemen. This makes this poem a 'mock epic'.
(iv) Define allegory.

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Ans. An allegory is an extended metaphor in which abstract ideas, concepts and

principles are described in terms of characters, figures and events in ways that are
comprehensible to its viewers, readers, or listeners. For example, George Orwell's
novel "Animal Farm" is a political allegory.
(v) What is a heroic couplet?
Ans. A heroic couplet is a traditional form for English poetry, commonly used in epic
and narrative poetry. It refers to poems constructed from a sequence of rhyming
pairs of lines in iambic pentameter. For example: "Know then thyself, presume not
God to scan/ The proper study of Mankind is Man".
(vi) What are the satirical targets of 'The Rape of the Lock'?
Ans. The principal satirical targets of "The Rape of the Lock" are the absurdities
and frivolities of the fashionable circle - aristocratic ladies and gentlemen - of the
18th century England.
(vii) What are some of the images that recur through the poem 'The Rape of the
Lock'?
Ans. The first recurring image is the sun. It marks the passing of time in the poem
and emphasizes the dramatic unity of the story. Another image that recurs is that
of china. Delicate dishes that are beautiful, fragile, and purely luxurious form a
fitting counterpart to a world that is ornamental. The images of gold and silver
signify the real value of underlying glittery and mesmerizing surfaces.
(viii) Write the names of the women in the poem 'The Rape of the Lock'?
Ans. There are five major women in the poem. Belinda is the heroine of the poem.
Thalestris is Belinda's friend. Betty is Belinda's maid. Clarissa is an attendant at
the Hampton Court Party. Spleen is the queen of bad tempers and the source of
detestable qualities in human beings.
(ix) What is Belinda's full name in 'The Rape of the Lock'?
Ans. Belinda is the heroine of the poem "The Rape of the Lock" by Alexander Pope.
She is named for a real person: Arabella Fermor; a member of Pope's circle of
prominent Roman Catholics.
(x) Who was the guardian spirit of Belinda?
Ans. The guardian spirit of Belinda is Ariel. He is a sylph. He warns her that
something dreadful may happen and sets a guard of sylphs to protect his charge,
but he is unsuccessful in preventing the loss of the lock of hair.
(xi) What spirit does Pope call upon to help him write his poem?

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Ans. Usually a poet calls upon one the the 'nine daughter of Zeus' to sanctify his
poetry. However, in 'The Rape of the Lock", Alexander Pope invokes his catholic
friend John Caryll instead, as a muse to provide him with blessings to narrate a
story of not a great hero but a rich, vain woman called Belinda.
(xii) To whom does Pope dedicate the poem 'The Rape of the Lock'?
Ans. Pope dedicates this poem to John Caryll. He was the friend of Arabella Fermor
(Belinda) and Pope. He was who originally asked Pope to write this poem.
(xiii) Who adores the 'sparkling cross' Belinda has on her neck?
Ans. Infidels adore this cross. Pope is highlighting the fact that the cross has as
much meaning to Belinda as it would to a person without any religious beliefs. The
cross is adored by the Infidels, kissed by the Jews, but no mention of Priests or
Gallants is made in reference to the cross.
(xiv) According to Pope, when women die, their spirits live on. What are the four
possible forms these spirits will take?
Ans. When quarrelsome women die, their souls go to fire and they become
Salamanders. When polite and submissive women die, their souls return to water
and they become Nymphs. The souls of proud and serious minded women go to
earth and they become Gnomes. The souls of flirt and coquette women go to air and
they become Sylphs.
(xv) What everyday feminine ritual is Pope connecting with the ancient Greco-
Roman sacrifice?
Ans. Sacrifice was the essential element of Greek and Roman religious rituals. Pope
is connecting the feminine ritual of dressing with the ancient Greco-Roman
sacrifice. Belinda's morning routine can be connected with a hero's ritualized
preparation before battle. Belinda's reflection in the mirror becomes the image of
goddess while her maid is the 'inferior priestess', worshiping at the altar.
How far does Ariel succeed in guarding Belinda?

Ariel totally fail to guarding Belinda because Belinda has lost her beautiful lock.
What is the role of Ariel in “The Rape of the Lock”?

The role of the Ariel in ” The Rape of the Lock” is to guard and guide the Belinda.

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Where did Belinda’s lock finally go?

Belinda’s lock finally goes to the lunar sphere.
Who is Betty and What duties she does?

Betty is maid servant of Belinda and she helps her in her toilet.
Name the pet dog of Belinda?

Shock is the name of the pet dog of Belinda.
Define Mock-epic?
Mock-epic is a long satirical poem written in lofty and exalted manner of an epic
with trivial subject.
Define an epic?
An epic is a long narrative poem on grand scale, about the deeds of heroes and
warriors.
Define allegory?
An allegory is a story, character or an event with dual meanings one surface
meanings and other deep/ figurative meanings.
Define satire?
Satire is a formal term, usually applied to the written literature. It is ridicule of
human follies and vices, with the purpose of bringing about reform.
Who is Caryl?
Traditionally, writers of epic poems would invoke the Muses, ancient goddesses who
protected the arts. Pope, however, invokes the name of his friend John Caryll,

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('Caryl' in the poem) who encouraged him to write The Rape of the Lock. Caryll's
relative Robert, Lord Petre, caused something of a scandal when he stole a lock of
Miss Arabella Fermor's hair. Caryll saw the funny side of the story and thought it
would be an excellent idea for Pope to use his remarkable literary talents to write a
humorous poem on the incident. The families concerned were at loggerheads over
the issue; they obviously regarded it as a matter of honor. Caryll wanted them to
see how ridiculous they were being and so enlisted Pope's assistance in making
them realize the sheer pointlessness and triviality of the whole affair.
How many sylphs are guarded Belinda????
In The Rape of the Lock, Pope’s satire on aristocratic manners, Ariel summons an
army of sylphs to attend Belinda while she is aboard the pleasure boat. Their
numbers, while staggering, also seem quite ridiculous when one learns what they
have been summoned to protect. For example, fifty of them are assigned the sole
purpose of protecting her petticoat. Before the fifty, celestial bodyguards are
mentioned, however, Ariel charges others— Zephyretta, Brillante, Momentilla, and
Crispissa—to guard her fan, earrings, watch, and hair, respectively, while assigning
himself the task of protecting Shock, Belinda’s lapdog. If the aforementioned sylphs
exist independently of the fifty, Belinda would have had fifty-four sylphs guarding
her in addition to Ariel, which would have raised the count to fifty-five.

29
CLASSICAL DRAMA
THE JEW OF MALTA
Short Questions
Answer the following questions.

(i) Write the names of four plays of Marlowe.
Ans. Marlowe has left us from his short, but brilliant, career seven plays, and in
several of them he was a pioneer in that particular genre. His famous plays include;
Tamburlaine the Great, The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus, The Jew of Malta,
and The Tragedy of Edward II.
(ii) What is the setting of the play 'The Jew of Malta'?
Ans. The five acts of the play are set in Malta in 1565, the year that the Ottoman
Turks besieged the tiny Mediterranean nation. Besides the main island of Malta,
the nation includes four other islands.
(iii) What are the major themes of 'The Jew of Malta'?
Ans. Hypocrisy, Machiavellian Strategy, revenge, love and avarice, lies and deceit,
justice and judgment, wealth, religion, prejudice, perseverance and politics are the
major themes of "The Jew of Malta".
(iv) Name the religious groups mentioned in 'The Jew of Malta'.
Ans. The play portrays characters of three religious groups -- Christians, Jews, and
Muslim Turks -- in constant enmity with one another.
(v) Define the term 'Machiavellian'.
Ans. "Machiavellian" is a widely-used negative term to characterize unscrupulous
politicians of the sort Machiavelli described in "The Prince". "Machiavellian" is often
associated with deceit, deviousness, ambition, and brutality, although Machiavelli
likely only used it as stylistic device to gain the reader's attention for his close
analysis of the actual techniques used by rulers. Machiavel is a Senecan ghost in
"The Jew of Malta".

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(vi) What is Malta's political situation in 'The Jew of Malta'?

Ans. Malta is in a tricky political situation. Even though it is home to a majority
Western, Christian population, it lives under shadow of the Turks. To stay safe,
Malta has to pay a monetary tribute to the Turks. In exchange for this protection
money, the Turks protect them .
(vii) Interpret 'I count religion but a childish toy'.
Ans. This line is from the Prologue spoken by Machiavell in "The Jew of Malta" by
Marlowe. In this line, Machiavell denounces religion. He says that religion is
nothing but a toy in the hands of religious fundamentalists and priests. It is a tool
one uses to manipulate other people. This line also sets the tone of Barabas's
actions throughout the rest of the play, as he lies constantly and makes plenty of
derogatory comments on Christianity
(viii) Interpret 'Weigh not men, and therefore, not men's words'.
Ans. This line is from the Prologue spoken by Machiavell in "The Jew of Malta" by
Marlowe. Machiavell is a symbol of Barabas's philosophy. He says that it is a
cynical attitude about not trusting others or what they say. Human worth and
words are not important.
(ix) Interpret 'For, so l live, perish may all the world!'
Ans. This line is from Act V spoken by Barabas in "The Jew of Malta" by Marlowe.
Barabas plots to undo everything once he is Governor of Malta -- Christians, Turks,
anyone in his way. He only cares for his own skin.
(x) Interpret 'Excess of wealth is cause of covetousness'.
Ans. This line is from Act I spoken by Ferneze in "The Jew of Malta" by Marlowe.
Ferneze blames Barabas for being rich; it leads others to do wrong, and therefore, it
is all his own fault if others take his money from him.
(xi) How the Turkish army is destroyed?
Ans. Barabas secretly makes a deal with Ferneze to kill all of the Turks in Malta in
return for a huge sum of money. Barabas' plan works but Ferneze batrays him at
the last minute. The Turkish army is destroyed and Barabas is killed in the trap he
devised for Calymath.
(xii) Who is Barabas?

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Ans. Barabas is the protagonist of the play "The Jew of Malta". He is a wealthy
merchant who is unrelenting in his efforts to gain revenge against his enemies. As
the prime malefactor in the play, Barabas resorts to deceit, betrayal, sedition,
usury, extortion, and murder as means toward his ends.
(xiii) What are the priorities of Barabas?
Ans. Barabas has two priorities: money, and his only daughter, Abigail. Though the
priorities of Barabas shift and evolve in the play, his motivations seem consistently
threefold; he continues to seek and obtain "Great sums of money, he continues to
pursue revenge on Ferneze, and driven by an insatiable desire for mayhem and
destruction.
(xiv) Why is Barabas' all property confiscated?
Ans. Ferneze, the governor of Malta, issues a decree ordering the confiscation of half
of each Jew's estate to pay tribute to the Turks; if the Jewish property owner
refuses, he must become a Christian; if he refuses to become a Christian, he "shall
absolutely lose all he has". Having resisted both the confiscations, Barabas loses all
he has.
(xv) Why is Barabas impatient with stash of gold?
Ans. Barabas' all property is confiscated by Ferneze except a hidden stash of gold
that Barabas hasn't 'fessed up to'. So he is very impatient with stash of gold in his
house which has now been turned into a nunnery.
Who is Basso in the ‘Jew of Malta’?

Basso is military officer or pasha of Turkey came with Callymath.
How does Barabas get Methias and Lodowick killed?

Barabas Killed the Mathias and Lodowick in a deceptive/fake duel. Barabas wrote a
forged letter to Mathias that is supposedly from Lodowick, challenging him to a
duel.
How does Ferneze treat Basso when Basso demands tribute ?

Ferneze got one month time to collect the dues for tribute when Basso demands
tribute.

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With whom is Abigail in love with?

Abigail is in love with Methias. He is a young man and son of Catherine. Methias
also love her very much.
Why does Barabas decide to kill Ithamore?

Barabas decides to kill Ithamore because he is black mailing him.
What does Ferneze suggest for calymath in the end of ‘ Jew of Malta’?
Ferneze imprisoned the Callymath in the end of the play “The Jew of Malta“.
What action Barabas take against his ‘ converted daughter’?

Barabas killed his ‘converted daughter’ by poisoning.
What guise does Barabas have to kill Ithamore?

Barabas in the guise of French musician poison the Ithamore and Ithamore die.
What is Barabas reaction on the death of Abigail?

Barabas celebrates the successful plan of poisoning the nuns. He is only grieved
that his daughter lived long enough to become a Christian.
Write the names of four plays of Marlowe?

The names of the four plays of Marlowe are Tamburlaine, Doctor Faustus, The Jew
of Malta and Edward ll.
What is the setting of the play ‘The Jew of Malta’?

The setting of the play “The Jew of Malta” in Malta in 1565 When Turk besieged
the island of Malta.
What are the major themes of ‘The Jew of Malta’?

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The major themes of “The Jew of Malta” are Machiavellian Strategy, revenge,
hypocrisy, love and avarice, wealth, lies and deceit, justice, judgment, religion,
prejudice and politics.
Name the religious groups mentioned in ‘The Jew of Malta’?

The religious groups mentioned in “The Jew of Malta” are Christians, Jews and
Muslims.
Who is bellamira?
Bellamira is a courtier and prostitution. She has only few customers, Pilia Borza is
only attendant.
Whom did Abigail love?

Abigail loved to Methias. who is the son of Catherine. he is a young man and also
loving her.
THE TEMPEST
Short Questions
Pakistan 🇵🇰🇵🇰🇵🇰🇵🇰

(i) What was happening in Shakespeare's career when he wrote 'The Tempest'?
Ans. "The Tempest" is most likely the last play written entirely by Shakespeare in
1611. The forty-seven year old Shakespeare was purposely slowing down his
professional theatre work to spend more time in his hometown of Stratford, tending
to real estate and investments, seeing to the marriages of his daughters, and
looking to a new phase of his life.

34
(ii) What two distinctions does 'The Tempest' have among Shakespeare's plays?
Ans. "The Tempest" is most likely the last play written entirely by Shakespeare,
and it is remarkable for being one of the only two plays by Shakespeare (the other
being Love's Labor's Lost) whose plot is entirely original. The extraordinary
flexibility of Shakespeare's stage is give particular prominence in "The Tempest".
(iii) Why is there no real suspense in the play 'The Tempest'?
Ans. Firstly, "The Tempest" is an autobiographical play. Prospreo is a self-portrait.
His abjuration of art is effectively Shakespeare's. Secondly, Shakespeare is bored
writing drama, and may perhaps have preferred to have written this instead as a
narrative poem. So there is no real suspense in the play.
(iv) List four elements the four romances have in common.
Ans. The four romances of Shakespeare include "Cymbeline", "The Winter's Tale",
"Pericles" and the "Tempest". These romances were written at the end of
Shakespeare's career. These plays have elements of comedy and tragedy. There are
elements of magic and the fantastic in these plays. The most important element of
these romances is the obsession with the concept of loss and recovery.
(v) What do you know about Ferdinand?
Ans. Ferdinand is the son of the king of Naples, Alonso. He is drawn to Prospero
and Miranda by Ariel's music. "He is gentle and not fearful." He falls in love with
Miranda immediately.
(vi) Why is Gonzalo sure that Boatswain will not die of drowning?
Ans. Gonzalo prognosticates that Boatswain is born to be hanged because he has
hanging look in his features. Thus Gonzalo is sure that Boatswain will not die of
drowning in the storm. He will survive in order to be hanged later on.
(vii) What are the three things associated the Prospero's magical power?
Ans. Prospero's magic staff (Ariel and other spirits) and his books represent his
power. With his magical power, he can alter weather, put on a dazzling wedding
entertainment, bully his servants, manipulate his enemies, and orchestrate his
daughter's marriage to the Prince of Naples.
(viii) Who is Miranda?
Ans. Miranda is the only female character to appear on stage in "The Tempest" by
Shakespeare. She is the daughter of Prespero. She was banished to the Island along
with her father at the age of three. In the subsequent twelve years she has lived
with her father and their slave, Caliban. She falls in love with Ferdinand
immediately.

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(ix) Give a description of Caliban.

Ans. Caliban has the body of a beast and the head of a deformed dwarf; he crawls
upon all fours rather than walks upright. His passions are bestial, yet he sees the
beauty in nature with a poet's mind.
(x) Who is sycorax and why does she lock Ariel in a tree for 12 years?
Ans. Sycorax is a vicious and powerful witch, and the mother of Caliban. She locks
Ariel in a "cloven pine". Ariel is left in the "cloven pine" for 12 years because the old
witch, Sycorax, dies in the meantime.
(xi) Who is the most eloquent character in the play 'The Tempest'?
Ans. Caliban speaks some of the most beautiful and eloquent poetry of the play.
Caliban's first words on stage are a raucous curse and a loud accusation: "This
island's mine....which thou tak'st from me." If Caliban represents raw, unchecked
instinct, he also represents one of the most eloquent voices in the play.
(xii) Interpret "Good wombs have borne bad sons."
Ans. This line is spoken by Miranda when her father Prospero asks her if Antonia
can be called a brother. She says that it would be wrong for me to think poorly of my
grandmother because good women sometimes give birth to bad sons.
(xiii) Why doesn't Alonso believe his son might still be alive?
Ans. Alonso is so depressed that he doesn't even want to believe his son Ferdinand
is still alive. Twelve years ago, he helped Antonio usurp the Dukedom of Milan from
his brother Prospero. He thinks the death of his son is the result of this mean act.
(xiv) Why does Ariel put everyone but Antonio and Sebastian to sleep?
Ans. Ariel's music quickly charms all but Antonio and Sebastian to sleep so that
Antonio can persuade Sebastian to kill his sleeping brother, Alonso. Antonio argues
that Ferdinand is surely drowned, and the Claribel, the next heir, is too far away to
make an effective claim. Thus by murdering his brother, he would become the King
of Naples.
(xv) What is the origin of 'Setebos', the name of Sycorax's god?
Ans. Setebos, the deity purportedly worshiped by the witch Sycoras, was originally
the god of Pantagonians. He was explicitly mentioned in Pigafetta's journal, which
was also carried forth into Eden's book, and picked up by Shakespeare.

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Importance of Being Earnest

Short Questions
MA English
In the end, why doesn’t Cecily care that Algernon’s name isn’t Ernest?
At the end of the play Cecily knows the real name of Jack as Earnest and learn that
his real brother is Algernon not Earnest so, she did not care about the name.
What is the subtitle of the play ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’?
The subtitle of the play “The Importance of Being Earnest” is “A Trivial Comedy for
Serious People“. In this play the serious things presented trivial and trivial things
presented seriously, so there is enough food for serious peoples.
How does Jack convince Lady Bracknell that Cecily is a suitable wife for her
nephew Algernon?
Jack says that Cecily brings with her rich dowry that will convince Lady Brecknell
that Cecily is a suitable wife for her nephew.
What are the major themes in ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’?
In the “Importance of being Earnest” the major themes are marriage, difficulties of
being illegitimate, difficulties in marrying, lies and deceit, respect and reputation,
society and class, duty and responsibility, religion and secret lives.

37
Define comedy of manners.
The comedy of manner is a comedy in which the manners of society or class are
satire. “Importance of being Earnest” is one example of comedy of manner.
Why does Jack establish two different identities for himself — one for the country
and another for the city?
Jack feels bore in country so, he makes a brother name Ernest who presented as
wicked man and he goes to meet him. In city he assume the name “Earnest” because
Gowendoline love the name “Earnest”.
In what ways do Algernon and Jack’s views about love and marriage differ?
Jack is conscious about the marriage but Algernon says that when you marry the
romance will end.
Why does Lady Bracknell not consider Jack an eligible husband for Gwendolen?
Lady Bracknell not consider Jack an eligible husband for Gowendoline because he
did not know about his real parents.
Who is Dr. Chasuble?

Dr chasuble is religious minister in Woolton Hertfordshire. Cecily says about Dr
Chasuble that he is a philosopher who has never written a book.
What is the setting of the play ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’?
The setting of the play in Algernon Moncrieff’s flat in Half-Moon Street, London
(Act I), the garden at the Manor House, Woolton, Hertfordshire (Act II), and
drawing room of the Manor House, Woolton, Hertfordshire (Act III).

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What are the major conflicts in ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’?
The major conflict in this play is that Lady Bracknell does not allow Gwendolyn to
marry Jack because he does not know his real parents. The second conflict is that
Jack as care taker of Cecily not allow the Cecily to marry with Algernon until Lady
Bracknell allow Gowendoline to marry him with Gwendoline.
Which moment from the play ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ struck you as the
funniest?
“The Importance of Being Earnest” is funny all the time. However, Jack try to
propose Gowendoline and Lady brecknell saw him, the interview of Jack by Lady
Bracknell, Algernon remarks about relatives, Cecily conversation with Miss Prism,
Cecily’s imaginative engagement and letters to “Earnest”, specially the last seen
when Miss Prism come are the funniest moments.
Who is “Ernest” in the play ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’?
For Cecily “Earnest” is younger brother of Jack, for Algernon and Gowendoline
“Earnest” is Jack, When Algernon knows the name and address of Jack he assume
the name of “Earnest” for Cecily. At the end of the play discover that Jack’s real
name is “Earnest”.
What is a dandy?
Dandy is a character who gives importance to physical appearance, sophisticated

language, and leisurely interests. For example Algernon is a dandy character in
“The Importance of Being Earnest“.
i) What is the significance of the title 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?

39
Ans. The title "The Importance of Being Earnest" features a salient pun in the form of the word
"earnest", which means "honest", and "truthful" and the name "Ernest" which is the name of the
alter ego that main character Jack uses to slide away from responsibilities and do as he pleases.
What is important, however, is that the title reflects that there is something valuable and even
honourable about being "earnest".
(ii) What is the subtitle of the play 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?
Ans. The subtitle of the play "The Importance of Being Earnest" is "A Trivial Comedy for Serious
People". His intentions were to make people think more deeply and make them more aware of
the serious things in life, which should be treated with sincerity, and the trivial things with
seriousness.
(iii) What are the major themes in 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?
Ans. The nature of marriage, the constrains of morality, the absence of compassion, hypocrisy
vs. inventiveness, lies and deceit, respect and reputation, society and class, duty and
respectability, passion and morality, religion and secret lives are the major theme in "The
Importance of Being Earnest".
(iv) Define comedy of manners.
Ans. The comedy of manners is an entertainment form which satirizes the manners and affections
of a social class or of multiple classes, often represented by stereotypical stock characters. "The
Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde is a comedy of manners.
(v) What is the setting of the play 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?
Ans. The primary setting is London and Hertfordshire, England in the late late 19th century.
Specific places include; Algernon Moncrieff's flat in Half-Moon Street (Act I), the garden at the
Manor House, Woolton (Act II), and drawing room of the Manor House, Woolton (Act III).
(vi) What are the major conflicts in 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?
Ans. There are two major conflicts. The first conflict is that Lady Bracknell does not allow
Gwendolyn to marry Jack because he does not know his real parents. Bracknell wants a husband
for her daughter that is rich and has a title. The second conflict is that Gwendolyn thinks that
Jack's real name is Ernest, but it is not. She seems to love him for his name only and Jack fears
he cannot tell her the truth.
(vii) Which moment from the play 'The Importance of Being Earnest' struck you as the
funniest?
Ans. "The Importance of Being Earnest" is funny all the time. However, the conversation among
the vacuous Cecily, the idiot Miss Prism, and the foolish hypocrite Dr. Chasuble in Act II struck
me as the funniest. The final moment in which Jack is identified as the lost brother of Algernon
and he is accepted by Gwendolen is also a very funny moment.
(viii) Give two examples of inversion in 'The Importance of Being Earnest'.
Ans. When Algernon remarks, "Divorces are made in Heaven," he inverts the cliche about
marriages being "made in Heaven." Similarly, at the end of the play, when Jack calls it "a terrible
thing" for a man to discover that he has been telling the truth all his life, he inverts conventional

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morality. Most of the women in the play represent an inversion of accepted Victorian practices
with regard to gender roles.
(ix) What is Wilde's opinion of the aristocracy?
Ans. Aristocrats mask their true nature and fill their lives with trivial traditions. Throughout the play
"The Importance of Being Earnest" Oscar Wilde makes fun of aristocrats in a cheerful way. He
seems to think that they are practically useless to society.
(x) What is Wilde's view towards formal education?
Ans. Wilde says, "Education is an admirable thing, but it is well to remember from time to time
that nothing that is worth knowing can be taught.". This shows he has no value for formal
education since it deprives man's contemplation.
(xi) Who is "Ernest" in the play 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?
Ans. In "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde, there is no character named "Ernest",
but everything depends on pretending to be Earnest. Jack creates a young brother named
"Ernest" to fool his lady friends, all of whom have an obsession with the name "Ernest". However,
in the end of the play, Jack finds out that his real name is "Earnest" and his middle name is Jack.
(xii) What is a dandy?
Ans. A dandy is a man who places particular importance upon physical appearance, refined
language, and leisurely hobbies, pursued with the appearance on nonchalance in a cult of Self.
Algernon is a dandy in the play "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde.
(xiii) How do characters in 'The Importance of Being Earnest' view marriage differently?
Ans. The characters in "The Importance of Being Earnest" are divided on whether a person should
marry because of duty or because of pleasure. The older generation thinks of marriage as a
business transaction, through which a person upholds or improves their rank in society. The
younger generation, however, wants to marry of love regardless of social standing.
(xiv) Interpret 'The truth is rarely pure and never simple'.
Ans. This line is spoken by Algernon in "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde.
Because most of the play involves the various lies and deceits told by the protagonist, the purity
of truth is always suspect. Moreover, truth is never simple, as most of it always requires
explanation of the deeper layers.
(xv) Interpret 'Women only call each other sister when they have called each other a lot of
other things first'.
Ans. This line is spoken by Algernon in "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde. It
means that women call each other names, bicker, fight and fall out before they feel comfortable
to become sisters. Friendship or relationship starts with enmity.
Who is Ernest?

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He is the protagonist of the drama who plays the double role. He is called Jack and has the feelings
towards Gwendolen, cousin of his friend.
Why does Cecily have to keep a diary?
She keeps the diary because she wants to add adventurous life.
What are the Characteristics of Jack and Gwendolen being different?
Both are frank and humble and has the civilized behavior towards
people. In their personalities, there is no element of pretending. They are made for each other.
Why did Algernon create a fictional friend?
He has created a fictional brother named Bunbury. All he did to avoid the social
obligations.
Who finds the cigarette case?
Algernon finds the case and it creates suspicion thoughts that Jack might be playing the double role.
Who gave Algernon the address of Jacks country house?
Lady Bracknell.
How does Jack become Cecily's guardian?

He was the adopted son of Thomas Cardew.He was the grandfather of Cecily. After the death of
Thomas Cardew Jack became her legal guardian.
Who left Jack in a bag?

He was found at Victorian railway station. Jack was adopted by a
wealthy family. Miss Prism, who left him there.

What is the Symbolism of Earnest?
Earnest means honest. It shows that there is something precious about being Earnest.
What is the subtitle of the Drama?

The subtitle of the "Importance of being Earnest, is "A TRIVIAL COMEDY FOR SERIOUS PEOPLE"
Describe the themes in 'The Importance of Being Earnest'?

Lies, respect and popularity, society and status and Secret personalities are the themes.

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Who was Cecily?
She was the granddaughter of Thomas Cardew. She is lovely and compassionate towards her
relatives. She has the habit of keeping diary wherever she goes. Jack is her guardian.
What was the reason both Cecily and Gwendolyn like the name Ernest?
Both believed that name Earnest could be the honest man in emotions, love and feelings. That
is why both have the same impact.
Who is Meriman?
He is the butler in Jack's house.
Define comedy of manners?
It is a form of entertainment which satirizes the manners and
affections of an upper class.
Describe the setting of the play?
When the play starts we have seen characters in London and Hertfordshire, we have seen the
picture of England which is set in the late 19th century.
What is the first conflict in the play?
First conflict Lady Bracknell, she does not permit Gwendolyn to marry Jack. She wants a husband
for her daughter that is rich and should have the higher status in society.
How does Wilde's describe the aristocratic class?

He says aristocratic class hide their true nature. They follow trivial traditions.
Who is dandy in the play?
Algernon, however Dandy is the name given to a person who gives special importance upon
physical appearance.
Who is Lady Bracknell?
She is a snobbish lady of upper class. Her primary goal is to see her daughter marriage. She has
authoritarian and narrow-minded personality.

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Oedipus Rex
QUESTION NO. 1
(i) How did Oedipus save Thebes before becoming its king?
Ans. A Sphinx had been terrorizing Thebes for and undisclosed amount of time. It placed a great
plague over Thebes and refused to remove it until someone correctly answered its riddle. Many
heroes attempted to answer the riddle, but each one was eaten alive after answering incorrectly.
When Oedipus answered the Sphinx, it killed itself.
(ii) What was the riddle posed by Sphinx to Oedipus?
Ans. The riddle posed by Sphinx to Oedipus was, "What goes on four feet in the morning, two
feet at noon, and three feet in the evening?" When Oedipus gave the correct answer, "man", the
Sphinx threw itself off a cliff and died.
(iii) Why do the Thebans come to Oedipus?
Ans. A procession of priests, who are in turn surrounded by the impoverished and sorrowful
citizens of Thebes comes to Oedipus. Thebes has been struck by a plague, the citizens are dying,
and no one knows how to put an end to it. Oedipus asks a priest why the citizens have gathered
around the palace. The priest responds that the city is dying and asks the king to save Thebes.
(iv) What do Thebans think of Oedipus as their king?
Ans. Thebans think that Oedipus is an intelligent and decent king who cares deeply for his people.
When Thebes has been struck by a plague, they gather around his palace so that Oedipus may
save them from the calamity.
(v) Who is Creon?
Ans. Creon is the brother of queen Jocasta, the wife of King Laius as well as Oedipus. He goes
to the oracle at Delphi to seek Apollo's advice in saving Thebes from plague. He is accused by
Oedipus of conspiring with Tiresias to take the crown from Oedipus. He becomes king in the end
when Jocasta kills herself and Oedipus blinds himself.
(vi) Why did Creon go to the Oracle?
Ans. He went to the Oracle at Delphi to seek Apollo's advice in saving Thebes from plague. He
wanted to know the cause and remedy of the plague from Apollo.
(vii) What message did Creon bring from Delphi Oracle?

Ans. Creon brought the message from Delphi Oracle that the gods had caused the plague in
Thebes in response to the murder of Laius, the previous king of Thebes. The gods had demanded

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that the murdered (the pollution of this land) should be killed or exiled. The plague would be lifted
after the completion of the task.
(viii) Who was Laius?

Ans. Laius was the king of Thebes before Oedipus. He was married to his distant cousin, Jocasta.
Apollo's oracle played a leading role in his reign. When Apollo warned that his son would kill him,
Laius was determined that this was not to be. When his son, Oedipus, was born, Laius tied his
feet together and left him to die on a mountain. Many years later while on vacation, Laius was
killed by Oedipus, who had survived.
(ix) Define Chorus.
Ans. Chorus is a group of singers who stand alongside or off stage from the principal performers
in a dramatic or musical performance. In ancient Greece, the chorus was originally a group of
male singers and dancers who participated in religious festivals and dramatic performances by
singing and commenting on the deeds of the characters and interpreting the significance of the
events within the play. The leader of the chorus was called Charogos.
(x) To which three gods does the Chorus pray for help?
Ans. The Chorus prays to the gods Appollo, Athena, and Artemis for help.
(xi) What is Creon's defense against the accusations against him?
Ans. Creon argues that it does not make sense that he would try to overthrow Oedipus. He already
shares a large amount of the authority as part of the de facto triumvirate made of Oedipus, Jocasta
and himself. He thinks it would be silly to pursue through violence and hassle a crown when he
already has the power. As he lacks the ambition for that, he thinks the claims are unfounded.
(xii) Who is Choragos?
Ans. Choragos is the "leader" of the Chorus. He does most of the talking in the Chorus. The rest
of the Chorus chants or repeats what he says, but he is clearly the leader. He is the voice of
reason. He introduces Tiresias and urges Oedipus to listen to him. He also urges other characters
to avoid extremes, to practice moderation, and see and hear the truth.
(xiii) Why did Oedipus and Laius confront?
Ans. There was a Delphic Oracle about Oedipus that he would grow up to kill his father and marry
his mother. Oedipus and his father Laius confront to initiate the fulfillment of the prophecy.
(xiv) Why did Oedipus kill Laius where the three roads meet?
Ans. Oedipus's killing of Laius was predestined. The three roads represents past, present and
future. Oedipus was pushed along by the irreversible flow of time. So he kills his father, Laius, at
a place where three roads meet in the name of self-defense.
(xv) What was the prophecy about Oedipus?
Ans. The prophecy of Delphic Oracle about Oedipus was that he would grow up to kill his father
and marry his mother.

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What news does the messenger from Corinth bring to Thebes?
Messenger brings the news of the death of the Corinth’s queen.
What is hamartia?
Hamartia is the error of judgement by the hero of the play.
Why does Jocasta commit suicide?
Jocasta judged the situation and found the reality and cannot endure the
embarrassment so, she suicide.
What does Oedipus use to blind his eyes?
Oedipus used the brooches from the clothes of Jocasta to blind himself.
Who takes over as the ruler of Thebes after Oedipus?
Creon takes over as ruler of Thebes after Oedipus blinding himself.
What is Creon’s defense against the accusations against him?

Creon replied on Oedipus accusations that he was already sharing the authority and
power without any responsibility on my shoulder then why I should want to grab the crown?
Who is Choragos?
In Oedipus the chorus consist of Theban;s elders and Choragos is leader of that
chorus. He comments and rest of chorus repeat or chant.
Why did Oedipus and Laius confront?

There was a prophecy about Oedipus that “he would kill his father and marry his mother”
so, they confronted and Oedipus killed the Laius.
Why did Oedipus kill Laius where the three roads meet?
Oedipus killed the Laius in self-defense where three roads meet. He conceive them as
robber and attacking on him. Actually it is predestined.
What was the prophecy about Oedipus?

The prophecy about Oedipus that “he would kill his father and marry his mother”.
How does Oedipus save Thebes before becoming its king?

Sphinx placed a great plague on Thebes and if someone answered wrong it ate him
alive. Oedipus answered the riddle of sphinx and sphinx suicide. This way Oedipus
save Thebes.

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What was the riddle posed by Sphinx to Oedipus?

Sphinx posed the riddle to Oedipus was “What goes on four feet in morning, on two feet
in noon, and on three feet at evening?”.
Why do the Thebans come to Oedipus?

The Thebans comes to tell Oedipus that Thebes are hit by a horrible plague and peoples
are dying.
What do Thebans think of Oedipus as their king?

Thebans think Oedipus an intelligent and caring as their king
Who is Creon?
Creon is brother of Jocasta. He was sent to Delphi to seek advice of Apollo to save the
Thebes from plague. Oedipus accused him for uniting with Tiresias to grab the crown.
He becomes king when Jocasta suicides and Oedipus blinds himself.
1. why have the priests come to the altar at thebes?

The priests are trying to figure out how to remedy the plague
2. how did oedipus once liberate thebes?
Oedipus liberated Thebes by answering the sphinx's riddle
3. why is creon away from thebes when the story opens?
he is at the oracle of Apollo trying to get answers for the plague and how Oedipus
can save the city
4. according to creon, what does apollo want done?
According to creon, apollo wants to purify the land of pollution (the plague and the
murderer)
5. how was Laius killed?
Laius was murdered by many robbers, allegedly
6. why wasn't the death of the king fully investigated?
The Sphinx caused them to forget the crime
7. who are the members of the chorus supposed to be
The members of the chorus represent the townspeople.
8. briefly summarize the prayer made by the first chorus.
The chorus reminds us of the plague and that it is terrible compared to war. They
also call upon Apollo.

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9. What "reward" does Oedipus offer for information about the murderer?
Oedipus offered money.
10. What punishment does Oedipus threaten for withholding information about the
murderer?
He says he will banish them if they withhold information.
11. Why has Oedipus sent for Tiresias?
He sends for Tiresias because he is a reputable profit.
12. Why didn't Tiresias come immediately when Oedipus sent for him?
He doesn't want to be the bearer of bad news.
13. Why does Oedipus first grow angry with Tiresias?
Tiresias wont tell Oedipus what he knows.
14. Why does Tiresias grow angry with Oedipus?
He calls him a traitor to the city.
15. What accusations does Tiresias make against Oedipus?
He accuses Oedipus of killing the king.
16. why does Oedipus grow angry with Creon?
He thinks Creon and Tiresias are plotting to get rid of him.
17. what prediction does Tiresias make?
Oedipus will realize he is the murderer, lose his eyesight, have no joy, lose all of his
money, be exiled, and discover his odd relations with Jocasta and Laius.
18. How do the people feel about the accusations Tiresias and Oedipus are making?
They don't know what to believe but are siding with Oedipus.
19. What does Oedipus think that Creon is plotting?
He thinks Creon is plotting to take his crown.
20. Why does Creon share Oedipus's power?
The power is divided three ways among the family.
21. According to Creon, why wouldn't he want to be a king?
Creon already gets all the perks of being a king, without actually being the king.

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22. Why does Creon tell Oedipus to go to Delphi?

Creon tells Oedipus to go to Delphi to prove his innocence from the oracle.
23. What advice does Jocasta give to her quarreling husband and brother?
Jocasta advises that they not let the feud be known to the public.
24. Why does Oedipus release Creon?
Jocasta tells him to release Creon.
25. What is Jocasta's proof that humans cannot prophesy the future?
Laius was killed by robbers, not her son, therefore the oracles must be wrong.
26. Why is Oedipus so disturbed by Jocasta's description of the prophecy about her
child?
He realized that he may have actually killed Laius because their stories have eerie
similarities.
27. What favor did Jocasta grant the slave who witnessed the murder?
She told him to run and never look back and to be a Shepard in the field.
28. Who were Polybus and Merope?
Polybus and Merope are Oedipus' supposed mother and father, respectively.
29. Why did the drunken man's story bother Oedipus?
It bothered Oedipus because the man called him a bastard.
30. Why did Oedipus go to Delphi when he was a young man?
He went to Delphi to prove that he is not a bastard child.
31. Why did Oedipus run away from home?
He ran away from home to avoid fulfilling the prophecy.
32. Why did Oedipus kill the travelers?
They tried to push him off the roads.
33. Why is Jocasta sure that Apollo's prophesy turned out to be wrong?
Jocasta thinks her son is dead, therefore he couldn't kill Laius.
34. Why does Oedipus send for the shepherd?
He wants to find out what he witnessed of Laius' murder.

49
35. Do the members of the chorus side more with the divide prophesy or with
Oedipus?
They side with Oedipus.
36. what offereings does Jocasta bear to the temples of the gods?
She bears olive branches and incense.
37. What news does the messenger bring?
He says that polybus is dead and that he is not Oedipus' father.
38. Why does Jocasta say taht the death of Polybus is a blessing?
This means that the oracle did not know the truth.
39. How does the messenger know that polybus was not Oedipus' father?
The messenger is the one that found Oedipus.
40. How did Oedipus get his name?
He had severed Achilles Tendons when he was found and his feet were swollen.
41. What advice does Jocasta give Oedipus about trying to solve the mystery of his
birth?
He shouldn't try to figure it out.
42. Which character in the story is a slave?
The herdsman is a slave.
43. How do the messenger and the shepherd know each other?
The messenger got Oedipus from the herdsman.
44. Why does Oedipus threaten to torture the Shepherd?
The shepherd won't tell him anything.
45. What awful truth does the shepherd reveal?
He reveals that Oedipus is Laius' and Jocasta's son and they tried to get rid of him
because of the prophesy
46. Why did Jocasta give her child to the shepherd?
She wanted to escape the prophesy.
47. Why didnt the shepherd kill the child?

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He pittied him.
48. Briefly summarize how the chorus reacts to the truth about Oedipus?
They feel bad for Oedipus and his misfortunes and they pity him.
49. How does Jocasta die?
She hanged herself.
50. How does Oedipus blind himself?
He stabs his eyes with Jocasta's gold brooches.
51. Why does Oedipus blind himself instead of killing himself?
He thinks he deserves a worse punishment.
52. Who replaces Oedipus as ruler of Thebes?
Creon replaces Oedipus.
53. Why does Creon order that Oedipus be taken to the palace?
Creon orders that Oedipus be taken to the palace because it is a family affair and
they don't need to speak about it in public.
54. What does Oedipus ask Creon to do with him?
Oedipus asks Creon to take him to the middle of nowhere.
55. What does Oedipus ask Creon to do for his children?
He asks Creon to take care of his daughters.
56. What wish does Creon grant Oedipus?
He grants him exile.
57. Briefly summarize the chorus's final speech.
We should focus on the end of life because it is the most important and they stress
that happiness is a life without pain.
Othello
(i) Why does Iago not like Othello?
Ans. Iago's anger stems from the fact that Othello unfairly passed him over for promotion and
made Michael Cassio his lieutenant, even though Cassio, unlike Iago, has no military field

51
experience. He also suspects that Othello has slept with his wife, Emilia. However, the main cause
of his hatred is his deep-seated racism against Othello.
(ii) Who is Roderigo?
Ans. Roderigo is the secondary antagonist of the play "Othello". He is a dissolute Venetian lusting
after Othello's wife Desdemona. He has opened his purse to Iago in the mistaken belief that Iago
is using his money to pave the way to Desdemona's bed. In the end, Roderigo dies - stabbed in
the back by Iago.
(iii) Who is Desdemona?
Ans. Desdemona is a beautiful, young and white Venetian debutante. She is the daughter of a
senator, Brabantio. She elopes with Othello. She is capable of defending her marriage, jesting
bawdily with Iago, and responding with dignity to Othello's incomprehensible jealousy. She dies
declaring her love for Othello.
(iv) Who is Michael Cassio?
Ans. Michael Cassio is Othello's lieutenant. He is a young and inexperienced soldier, whose
position is much resented by Iago. Truly devoted to Othello, Cassio is extremely ashamed after
being implicated in a drunken brawl on Cyprus and losing his place as lieutenant. Iago uses
Cassio's youth, good looks, and friendship with Desdemona to play on Othello's insecurities about
Desdemona's fidelity.
(v) Who is Brabantio?
Ans. Brabantio is a Venetian senator and the father of Desdemona in "Othello". He has
entertained Othello in his home countless times before the play opens, thus giving Othello and
Desdemona opportunity to fall in love. He is furious upon learning they have eloped, and
Desdemona's decision is reported to be the cause of his death in the last act.
(vi) What was Brabantio's reaction to Othello's marriage to Desdemona?
Ans. When Brabantio, Desdemona's father, realizes that his daughter has married Othello, he
reaction is rage. Going to where Othello is meeting with the Venetian Senators, Brabantio accuses
Othello of using sorcery to seduce his daughter. He us upset because Othello is not Venetian but
Moorish.
(vii) What is the military issue that the Duke of Venice and his senators discuss?
Ans. The Duke of Venice and his senators talk about the Turk army headed for the kingdom. They
discuss which part of the kingdom do they plan to attack. Finally they reached the conclusion that
Cyprus would be their target. That is why they send Othello to Cyprus.
(viii) Define the word 'moor'.
Ans. "Moot" is a name applied to the Arab and Berber peoples of North Africa who inhabited
medieval Spain. Thus, Othello may be connected with the Moors who remained in Spain after the
fall of Granada in 1492 until a later expulsion in 1609 or with the people of "Barbary" in North
Africa.
(ix) How does Othello succeed in winning Desdemona's heart?

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Ans. Desdemona's father, Brabantio, frequently invited Othello to be a guest at his home. Othello
told tales of his strange adventures prior to coming to Venice. Desdemona used to come around
to hear the stories. Eventually, Othello began sharing his tales with Desdemona privately. And,
they fell in love.
(x) What is the significance of the handkerchief to Othello?
Ans. The handkerchief is the first gift Desdemona receives from Othello, so it is a token of his
love. Othello claims that his mother used it to keep his father faithful to her, so, to him, the
handkerchief represents martial fidelity. The pattern of strawberries on a white background
strongly suggests the bloodstains left on the sheets on a virgin's weeding night, so the
handkerchief suggests a guarantee of virginity as well as fidelity.
(xi) What proof does Iago use to convince Rederigo that Cassio and Desdemona are
lovers?
Ans. He offers proof in the way of Othello's handkerchief that end up in Cassio's hands and an
overhead conversation. He also emphasizes the contrast of black Othello and white Desdemona
to defile Desdemona's goodness.
(xii) Who is Emilia?
Ans. Emilia is Iago's wife, and Desdemona's maid, a woman of practical intelligence and
emotional resilience. She follows Iago in wifely duty, but during the play develops a strong loyalty
to Desdemona and, at the end, denounces Iago's lies to defend Desdemona's reputation.
(xiii) What warning about Desdemona does Branbanito give to Othello?
Ans. Brabantio warns Othello that if his daughter, Desdemona, deceive him in order to marry
Othello, then she can just as easily deceive Othello.
(xiv) Why does Desdemona plead the case of Cassio so passionately?
Ans. Desdemona and Cassio are firm friends. What has happened to Cassio is precisely what
she could not bear to happen to herself. Therefore, Desdemona pleads the case of Cassio so
passionately, asserting that he is a good man, and worthy to be reinstated in her husband's
favour.
(xv) What happens to the Turkish fleet?
Ans. The Turkish fleet is broken apart by a terrible storm while sailing to Cyprus. This might mean
that the Turkish attack will not happen.
What was Iago's complaint in scene 1?

He was passed over for a promotion and Cassio got the job as lieutenant
Who was Brabantio, and why did Iago and Roderigo awaken him in the middle of
the night?

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Brabantio was Desdemona's fathers and they awakened him to tell him about
Desdemona and Othello's secret marriage
Why did Iago leave Roderigo at Brabantio's house?
He did not want to be seen as being against Othello even though he was
What was Brabantio's reaction to Othello's marriage to Desdemona?
Brabantio thinks Desdemona was basically forced to marry Othello, and was very
angry
Why did the Duke send for Othello?
He thought his daughter was bewitched into marrying Othello.
Brabantio complains to the Duke about Othello's marriage to Desdemona. After
listening to both sides of the story, what was the Duke's reply?
"I think this tale would win my daughter too".
What was Roderigo's complaint, and what was Iago's reply to it?
He didnt get Desdemona, He's saying put money in your purse and get over it".
Why did Iago want Roderigo to anger Cassio?
He will start a fight and look unfavorable to Othello
What was the purpose of Iago's plan?
To get revenge
Give a brief estimate of Iago’s wife?
Iago’s wife was Emilia and she was attendant and companion of Desdemona in Cyprus.
She was a young, virtuous and faithful wife and loyal to Desdemona also. She followed
her husband in wifely duty and at the end of the play she condemned her husband’s lies
to protect Desdemona’s character.
How does Othello kill Desdemona?

In the last act Othello tells Desdemona that she is disloyal and he is going to stab her.
Desdemona requests for mercy and claims her innocence but he refuses and stab her.
What is Othello’s opinion about unexposed Iago?

Othello’s opinion about unexposed Iago is that he is kind and honest man but it is
ironical because in reality he is opposite.

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Why is Brabantio dismayed about Desdemona?

Brabantio was father of Desdemona. He dismayed about Desdemona when he realized
that she has married to a moor Othello. The main reason was that Othello was a black
and Moorish.
What qualities of Othello do win the heart of Desdemona?

The qualities of Othello that win the heart of Desdemona are the tales of wars, his
adventures and endurance before coming to Venice that told to Desdemona.
Desdemona says that my heart is subdued for the Othello’s visage and honor.
Why does Iago stab his mistress?

Iago does not tell anything that why he stab his mistress but it is very clear from the
story that Emilia tells the truth and condemn the lies of his husband so, in revenge he
stab her.
How does Iago exploit Roderigo?

Roderigo is an emotional person. He does not think on reason so, Iago exploit Roderigo
through his emotions. Iago tells Roderigo that money can get anything even
Desdemona’s love thus he get money from Roderigo.
What sort of women was Emilia?

Emilia the wife of Iago and attendant of Desdemona is a young, virtuous, intelligent and
with emotional flexibility. She is faithful wife and loyal servant.
Why does Iago not like Othello?

Iago does not like Othello because Othello has made Cassio his lieutenant who has no
military experience instead of Iago who has military experience.
1. 1
How is Othello's race a factor in the play?
Othello ascends to the rank of the Venetian military, a city - much like
Elizabethan England when the play was written - rife with racism. A general in
the army, Othello holds a distinguished place in the Duke's court due to his
victories in battle, but not an equal one. He suffers barbs and preconceived
notions, yet Othello is esteemed and wins the love of the daughter of a
nobleman. However, Brabantio is enraged by Othello's marriage to Desdemona
and claims Othello used magic to compel her to run to his "sooty bosom". Race is
a factor in the tragedy both in those who seek to destroy Othello, and the victims
of the schemes - Othello and Desdemona. Perhaps the most pernicious form of

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race as an instrument of division is Othello's own view of himself as an outsider,

which makes him more susceptible to Iago's plan.
2. 2
How does Shakespeare's use of language reveal character?
Often Shakespeare uses verse lines written in iambic pentameter to illustrate
nobility. It is illustrative of Iago's duplicitous nature that he tends to speak in
verse when he is with Othello and in prose for his soliloquies. One way in which
Iago is a master in manipulation is his tendency to use Othello's own words to
disguise his active role of instigator and make it seem that any dark thought
came not from him but Othello's own mind. Othello's speech is very
sophisticated at the beginning of the play, and in his soliloquy at the close of Act
V, but when he is consumed with jealous rage, his eloquence falters.
Shakespeare uses dialogue to convey the innerworkings of his characters.
3. 3
Othello is often called a tragic hero. Discuss his heroic qualities as well as
his flaws which lead to his demise.
At the beginning of the play Othello is presented as an honorable man of noble
stature and high position. In the end it is his misguided attempt to maintain that
honor which brings about his, and Desdemona's, demise. However, Othello is not
simply the victim of a plot. Iago is able to engineer Othello's downfall in part
because of Othello's own insecurities. His pride blinds him to his weaknesses,
and he puts his faith in Iago over the word of his love, Desdemona. Othello is
obsessed with his reputation, and ends up killing his wife to save face. Only to a
flawed man would murder seem like a solution to a problem of reputation.
Othello is spurred on by lies and misrepresentations, but he brings about his
own undoing.
4. 4
What motives, stated and implied does Iago have for taking revenge on
Othello?
Iago's stated reason for taking revenge on Othello is that he has been passed
over for Cassio's post. But is this enough for him to "hate the Moor"? It is clear
that he is jealous of Othello's ascension in the court and successful wooing of
Desdemona. Othello's race and status as an outsider also seems to fuel this rage,
as well as the rumor that Othello has slept with Iago's wife, Emilia. None of these
motivations, however, seem to add up to inspire the violence that unfolds. Iago
remains one of the most purely evil of Shakespeare's villains.

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5. 5
Discuss how loyalty is presented as a positive and a negative quality
throughout the play.
Othello's lack of loyalty is what incites Iago's plan for revenge. Iago's ability to
fool Othello that he is loyal while secretly plotting his demise is what makes his
revenge effective. It is Othello's belief in Desdemona's lack of loyalty that seals
their fates. In these ways loyalty, when misconstrued, can be dangerous.
However Desdemona's loyalty to Othello even in her death and Othello's loyalty
to her once his mistake is revealed are seen as ennobling aspects of their
characters.
6. 6
Compare and contrast the jealousy of Othello to that of Iago.
One major theme in Othello is revenge - Iago's revenge on Othello and Othello's
revenge on Desdemona. They both believe death will bring justice. Iago's
revenge is cooler, plotted out over time where Othello's is an act of heartbroken
passion. Iago wears his lack of morals as a badge of honor where it is Othello's
moral code that leads to his tragic end.
7. 7
Although Othello is the title character in what way is Iago the main
character?
Often in Shakespeare's plays such as Hamlet or King Lear, the title character is
the main character and protagonist. In Othello this is not the case. Iago has
almost 20% more lines than Othello, and has more asides with the audience.
While it is Othello's decisions and actions that provide the dramatic structure for
the play, it is Iago who sets in motion those decisions and spurs him to action.
Othello is the tragic figure of the play, along with Desdemona, and it his
characteristics that lend itself to most of the themes - jealousy, race, trust.
However, Iago is the character who drives the plot.
8. 8
How does Desdemona's dying assertion that she killed herself effect how
you see her character?
From a modern feminist viewpoint Desdemona may be judged harshly for
answering Emilia, when she asked who has mortally attacked her, "nobody; I
myself. Farewell." Furthermore, she seemed resigned to her fate at the hands of
her husband. While contemporary audiences may interpret these actions as
unfathomable, they highlight the goodness of her character. Desdemona is
described by others in the play with words that symbolize goodness - light,
white, fair, delicate, alabaster. By the end of the play, Desdemona begins to
symbolize goodness itself, so her reaction to her murder becomes another
element in Othello's tragic end. Desdemona still loves Othello, though he is

57
mistaken, and she goes to her death professing her husband's reputation. A
modern audience may wish for a response that is less melodramatic, but that is
not the world that Shakespeare has created in this play.
9. 9
In what ways do Othello's suicide strengthen or undermine his heroism?
Though suicide is not usually the chosen end for a heroic figure, it is Othello's
only escape from the crimes he has committed. Though the victim of Iago's
trickery, Othello is still the author of his own demise. For Desdemona's death to
be answered by anything less than his own would have felt false.
10. 10
Describe how Othello's pride leads to his fall.
At the beginning of the play Othello is proud of himself and his achievements,
but when Iago looks to punish Othello for his perceived slight, it is his pride that
he preys upon. The belief that Desdemona has tainted his honor ignites Othello's
rage, but it is his pride that blinds him to the fact that the evidence of her acts
are lies invented not by a loyal friend but an enemy bent on his destruction.
What does Iago tell Roderigo about Othello?

He says that he hates Othello because Othello chose the Michael Cassio as his lieutenant.
What Secret Roderigo told him to Barbantio?
He wants to reveal the secret marriage of his Daughter Desdemona.
In the First scene, what are Iago and Roderigo discussing?
The marriage of Othello and Desdemona.
What is the reason for the unhappiness of Roderigo?
He wants Desdemona as his wife but when he heard that Desdemona already has been
married he became unhappy and furious.
Why is Iago so worry about Othello?
Because he gives priorities to Cassio instead of Iago.

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Why does Iago not like Othello?

Othello has chosen the Michael Cassio as his lieutenant. That's why he does not like
Othello. Lago also suspects that Othello slept with Cassio wife, Emilia. Anyhow the
main reason behind all this is his deep hatred for racism.
Who is Roderigo?
Roderigo is the antagonist of the play Othello. He likes Desdemona. He dies by Lago's
knife.
What was Iago plan to get revenge from Othello?

He pretended to be his loyal servant and get all other information which is necessary for
taking revenge.
Who is Desdemona?
She is decent and attractive. Her father name is Barbantio. She is in deep love with
Othello and she runs away with him.
Who is Michael Cassio?
He is Othello's Lieutenant who was chosen over Lago. Cassio does not have
experience in this field but he was devoted as a lieutenant to Othello.
How is Othello's race discussed in the play?
The race has played an important role in the play. When he got married. Barbantio,
claims Othello used magic to compel her daughter. All this was because of racism.
Othello is called a tragic hero? Why
Because his tragedy and his mistakes take his glory and bring his downfall.
Who is Brabantio?
He is the father of Desdemona who hates her husband.
Define the word 'moor'
it is the name which is given to the Arab Peoples
How does Othello succeed in getting the love of Desdemona?
He frequently visits her house and told his strange adventurous stories, with the time both,
fell in love with.

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What is the importance of the handkerchief?

It is a first gift given by Othello to Desdemona. It shows his love for her. It symbolizes
his love and passion.
Who is Emilia?
She is a loyal servant of Desdemona and works at her house. She is a nice and
practical woman. Lago is her husband who uses her as his tool.
Describe the relationship between Iago and Emilia?
Emilia loves Lago and has feelings for him but Lago uses her as his tool. So, there is no
love only pretending to be one.

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NOVEL / FICTION
Tess of the D'Urbervilles
Short Questions Answers
What is the primary reason why the Durbeyfields send Tess to Trantridge Cross?
So that she may eventually marry a nobleman
What is the name of Tess's illegitimate child?

Sorrow
At what location does Alec seduce Tess?

The Chase
According to Joan Durbeyfield, what is the 'trump card' that Tess has?
Her face.
What is significant about Alec saving Tess from Car Darch?

Alec proves more dangerous to Tess than Car would have.
Why does Izz Huett suggest that Angel will never marry Tess?
Angel will become a large land-owning farmer and will marry an upper-class
woman.
What is the significance of the story of Jack Dollop?

Tess draws upon her personal experiences and finds tragedy in a story that others
find humorous.

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What event causes Tess to realize Angel's affection for her?

Angel arranges the cows so that she may milk her favorite ones.
What motivates Tess to speak to Angel about her past?

Angel admits his sins to Tess.
What is the subject of the Biblical verse that the Clares read with Angel?
Praise for a virtuous wife.
Whom does Angel invite to accompany him to Brazil?

Izz Huett
Which character calls Tess "a damned witch of Babylon"?

Alec d'Urberville
When John learns about his noble ancestry, what kind of festival is Tess attending?
My Day
Where does Mrs. Durbeyfield hide her copy of the Compleat Fortune-Teller?
The outhouse
What is Mr. d’Urberville’s real last name?

Stokes
What symbol is used to convey both the majestic grandeur and the lifeless
hollowness of an aristocratic name?.
The d’Urberville family vault

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Why does Tess take the job at the d’Urberville estate?

Her family needs money
Who is giving the barn sermon that Tess stops in to hear?

Alec d’Urberville
Who offers financial help after Tess’s father dies?

Alec d’Urberville
In a religious sense, what does Tess represent?

Fallen humanity
In a religious sense, who does Alec represent?

Satan
What does Retty Priddle do when Angel Clare chooses to marry Tess?
Attempts suicide
What job do Angel’s father and two brothers hold?

Clergymen
What is the name of the horse that dies in the crash during the return from market?
Prince
What job does Tess take at the d’Urberville estate?

Tending fouls

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What does the sign painter stop to paint when he’s talking with Tess?
THY DAMNATION SLUMBERETH NOT
Who is the master dairyman at Talbothays?

Richard Crick
What instrument does Angel play?

Harp
What is interpreted as a sign that two people on the farm are in love?
Butter not churning properly
What plant causes the cow’s milk to have an unpleasant “twang?’

Garlic weed
Who do the Clares want Angel to marry?

Mercy
What ill omen occurs on the afternoon that Tess and Angel are leaving for the
wedding ceremony?
A rooster crows
Where is Tess when she is finally arrested?

Stonehenge
Why did not Tess reject Alec proposal of Marriage?
Because she needs economic protection not only for her future but her whole family depends on it.
Who is Mercy Chant?

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She is the daughter of Reverend Clare. He wants that Angel should marry his daughter but Angel married
to Tess and she engaged to Cuthbert Clare.
Define foreshadowing?
It is the type of literary device in which writer gives future indications or kind of hint what will come
after that incident in the story.
What is the Symbolism which happened to dead Pheasants?
The Dead pheasants represent the sufferings and domination that Tess Suffers in the hands of the elite
class.
Who is Jack Durbeyfield?
He is the father of Tess. He is a symbol of laziness. He buys and sells vegetables. He is an uneducated and
alcoholic person.
How does the Parson greet him to Tess Father on the Road?
Sir John.
What was the specific thing the Parson tells Mr. Durbeyfield?
He told him that Mr. Durbeyfield has belonged to the elite class named D'Urbervilles.
Where do Angel and Tess meet the first time?
Angel sees her at a dance party in the green area.
Who is Tess?
She is the leading character in the story. She has innocent and irresistible looks. She lives with her
parents in the village of Marlott.She is unaware of the worldly dealings. She falls in love with Angel and
later marries him.
According to your opinion can we call her Tess, a pure woman?
Yes, she is almost pure but not physically but spiritually.
Angle or Alec Who causes more destruction to Tess?
Angel who has created more problems than Alec.She got married to him but runs away and left her
alone. After that, she had to marry Alec the idiot and responsible for Tess tragic circumstances.
However, both characters played an important in the destruction of Tess Life.
What is the reason behind Tess leaving the village Marlott?
She leaves the village when she got pregnant by Alec.Then she decides to leave that place so that
her parents saved from the social attacks.
Describe the setting of the novel?
The whole story takes place in the 19th century in England. Almost all of the Hardy fictions take place in
the same area called Wessex.
From which village the novel starts?

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The Novel starts from the village of Marlott. It is the place where Tess lives and has her childhood
memories.
Does the Tess of d’Urbervilles show a naturalistic theme?
Nature played a great role in this novel. Nature shows the running emotions and feelings of Tess. The
weather conditions symbolize Tess hardships and worries at Flint-Comb-Ash Diary.
Who is Abraham Durbeyfield?
He is the small brother of Tess. He is with her when Prince dies.
Who is Joan Durbeyfield?
She is the mother of Tess. She is simple and has forgiving nature.
Is Tess a pure woman?

Tess is not pure physically as Hardy himself calls her “maiden no more” but the loss of
virginity under the circumstances like rape does not loss the purity. She is pure in her
attention and soul.
How does the novel Tess of d’Urbervilles reflect a naturalistic theme?
Nature is an important theme in Tess of D’Urbervilles. Hardy uses the nature to express
the emotions and feelings of Tess, when Tess is happy the nature also presents spring
time, blue sky and flowersbut at Flintcomb-Ash Dairy the hardships of work and hard
weather heighten the sadness of Tess.
What does the person tell Mr. Durbeyfield?
The person calls Mr. Durbeyfield with the name of Sir John and tells him that he is belongs
to noble family of D’Urbervilles.
What does Mr. Durbeyfield do after he talks to the person?
He orders to a boy that he sent a carriage for him which takes him to home.
Where does Angel first see Tess?

Angel first sees Tess at the May Day dance in Marlot.
At the dance, why does Angel leave without talking to Tess?

At the May Day dance, Angel leaves the Tess without talking to her because his
brothers move away on the way.
Who is Abraham Durbeyfield?

Abraham Durbeyfield is the younger brother of Tess. Abraham is younger than Louisa Lu.
He is with Tess when Prince dies.

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Who is Joan Durbeyfield?

Joan Durbeyfield is the mother of Tess. She is simpleminded and forgiving woman.
Who is Jack Durbeyfield?

Jack or John Durbeyfield is the father of Tess Durbeyfield. He is a lazy peddler and hate
work. When he knows that he descends from noble family of D’Urbervilles, he wants to
make profit from connection.
Who is Mercy Chant?

Mercy Chant is the daughter of the friend and neighbor of Reverend Clare. Mr. Clare wants
that Angel will marry her but he married to Tess then Mercy engaged to Cuthbert Clare.
What is the role of Izz Huett in Tess of the d’Urbervilles?

Izz Huett is milkmaid and friend of Tess at Talbothays Dairy. She loves to Angel. Angel
after deserting Tess meet Izz Huett and request her to go with him to Brazil but she refused.
1. How does John Durbeyfield learn about his true family heritage?
2. What is the name of the valley where Tess and her family live?
3. What distinguishes Tess from her fellow country maidens?
4. What happens at the first meeting between Tess and Angel?
5. What do the two older brothers on a walking tour wish to do, instead of dancing
with local girls?
6. Who takes care of the children in the Durbeyfield family?
7. What happens on the road to Casterbridge market?

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8. What is the subject of Tess’s and Abraham’s conversation as they ride to market?
9. What does Joan Durbeyfield rely on when deciding Tess’s future plans?
10. Why does Tess consent to her mother’s plan that she ask Mrs. D’Urberville for a
job?
Answers
1. On impulse, a local man gives this information to John Durbeyfield as they meet
by chance on a country road.
2. The Durbeyfield’s home village is in the vale (or valley) of Blakemore or

Blackmoor.
3. Tess’s beauty sets her apart from her friends. She is the only girl in the
procession adorned with a red ribbon.
4. Angel, drawn by curiosity, dances with a local woman at Marlott’s May-Day

procession. Tess sees Angel and is impressed by his distinguished manner and
looks. Angel sees Tess and is momentarily regretful he did not dance with her.
5. The two older brothers wish to have time later on to discuss a book dealing with a
contemporary religious controversy, the rise of atheism.
6. Tess is the oldest child by more than four years, and the hardest-working
member of the family. Much of the child-care responsibility goes to her.
7. Abraham and Tess fall asleep early in the morning as their horse, Prince, drags a
cart loaded up with beehives to market in Casterbridge. Walking on the wrong side
of the road, Prince is gored by the mail cart, and dies.

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8. Tess describes how humans live on a “blighted star,” thus accounting for the
miserable position of the Durbeyfield family.
9. Joan relies on a book, the Compleat Fortune-Teller, to predict Tess’s future.
11. “Nobody blamed Tess as she blamed herself” for the death of Prince. Her guilt
over this accident and her sense of responsibility for her family override her
intuition that the project of “claiming kin” with the D’Urbervilles is unwise. of
the d'Urbervilles ▾search
1. What tips the balance of Tess’s decision as to whether to approach Mrs.

D’Urberville?
2. What is the name of the home of Mrs. D’Urberville?
3. Why has Simon Stoke decided to rename himself D’Urberville?
4. What job is Tess given by the D’Urbervilles?
5. How is Tess dressed when her parents send her off?
6. What is the mother-son relationship of Mrs. D’Urberville and Alec like?
7. What does Alec teach Tess how to do?
8. What defect marks the social life of the people in and around Trantridge?
9. Who picks a fight with Tess on the way home from Chase¬borough, and why?
10. What happens in The Chase?

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Answers
1. Her guilt over the death of Prince, combined with her feeling that she is
responsible for the family, cause Tess finally to agree to the idea of applying to Mrs.
D’Urberville for help.
2. The manorial home of Mrs. D’Urberville is named The Slopes.
3. Simon Stoke has earned a fortune as a merchant, or perhaps as a moneylender,

in the industrialized north of England. Stoke does not want to be associated with his
unprestigious (or shady) past, and he believes that an aristocratic name would be
more distinguished than his original one. He found the name D’Urberville in a history
book dealing with old families in the south of England.
4. Tess is assigned the job of tending to a group of fowl kept by Mrs. D’Urberville.
She must feed, care for, and entertain these birds.
5. Tess is dressed in a white muslin dress and her newly washed hair is tied with a
large red ribbon.
6. Mrs. D’Urberville is not ignorant of her son’s faults, but nevertheless loves him.
She is “bitterly fond” of Alec.
7. Alec teaches Tess how to whistle so that she can keep Mrs. D’Urberville’s birds
happy.
8. The villagers around Trantridge live for the moment, disdaining the idea of saving
for the future. Many of them are hard drinkers.
9. The Darch sisters, jealous that Alec is now smitten with Tess instead of them, pick
a fight with her.

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10. Unheedful of the route home, Alec drives his carriage until his horse is
exhausted. He deposits Tess in a portion of The Chase and goes to look for
directions. When he comes back, he ascertains Tess is asleep, and takes her.
1. Why does Alec want to catch up with and talk to Tess?
2. What final piece of advice does Alec give Tess?
3. Who has started the sign-painter on his work?
4. Why is Tess so struck by the sign-painter’s messages?
5. Why is Joan disappointed with Tess?
6. What happens when Tess decides to attend church?
7. What does Tess do after the parson is not allowed in to see her dying infant?
8. What is Tess’s reaction to the parson saying her infant may not be allowed a
standard Christian burial?
9. What name does Tess give to her infant?
10. Why does Tess wish to leave Marlott?

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Answers
1. If he cannot convince her to return to Trantridge, he will at least ride her the rest
of the way home to Marlott.
2. Alec advises Tess to display her beauty, her prime advantage, to the world.
3. An evangelical preacher named Mr. Clare started the sign-painter on his unusual
work.
4. Tess has the uncanny, irrational feeling that this man knows what has just
happened to her.
5. Having heard about Tess being a favorite of Alec, Joan assumes a marriage,
which will materially help the Durbey¬fields, is in the near future. Joan is shocked
and disappointed when she learns otherwise.
6. Her neighbors gossip and whisper in her direction, making Tess feel she is being
singled out as one who is guilty.
7. Tess performs the baptism on her own, getting her siblings to pray and reading
the prayers herself.
8. Tess vows never to go to the parson’s church again.
9. After recollecting a phrase from the book of Genesis in the Bible (Chapter 3,
Verse 16: “in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children”), Tess gives her infant the
name “Sorrow.”
10. Tess feels she cannot be happy in a place which knows the particulars of her lost
maidenhood. It is best for her and her family if she moves elsewhere.

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2. What is the relationship between Tess’s inner mood and her outward beauty?
3. What are Tess’s feelings after getting to work milking the cows?
Answers
1. The Valley of the Great Dairies is larger than, and perhaps not so beautiful as,
the valley in which Tess has so far lived her life.
2. There is an inverse relationship: when her mood is less happy, her beauty is
greater; when she is happy, her looks are more or less ordinary.
3. Getting to work gives Tess a sense of security and confidence. She “appeared to
feel that she really had laid a new foundation for her future.”
1. Who are usually the first two people to wake each day at Talbothays?
2. What names does Angel call Tess?
Answers
1. Angel and Tess, “possibly not always by chance,” are the first two people to arise
each day at the dairy-house.
2. Angel calls her Artemis and Demeter, the names of women from Greek mythology.
Artemis was the virgin goddess of the hunt; Demeter was the goddess of fertility.
1. How long will Angel remain at Talbothays?

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2. What gifts from Mrs. Crick does Angel carry home to his ¬family at Emminster?
3. What changes does his family note in Angel?
4. What qualities are the Clares looking for in a future daughter-in-law?
5. Who is Mercy Chant?
6. How much forethought lies behind the timing of Angel’s first proposal to Tess?
7. What rationale does Tess use to explain this initial refusal?
8. What story about his father does Angel tell Tess?
9. How does Tess react to the story about the woeful rogue Jack Dollop?
10. On what errand does Tess accompany Clare?
Answers
1. Angel is planning to stay at Talbothays for about four more months before
visiting another farm.
2. Angel carries home two gifts from Mrs. Crick to his family: black-pudding and
mead (an alcoholic beverage made from fermented honey).
3. Angel seems more countrified, carrying himself more like a farmer and less like
the scholar his family had hoped him to be.

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4. The Clares want a God-fearing, Christian woman for their son. Mrs. Clare,
additionally, is concerned that her son marry a “lady.”
5. Mercy Chant is the woman Clare’s parents hope and expect he will marry. She is
a church-going, devout girl, the daughter of family friends.
6. Angel had not meant to propose so quickly. His proposal is rather impulsive.
7. Tess seizes on the idea (which is, unknown to her, more than partially true) that
she is not upper-class or learned enough to fit in with Angel’s social circle and his
family.
8. To bring the conversation to a more general and less stressful level, Angel tells of
a young, dissolute squire named D’Urberville whom his father tried to convert to a
more holy life.
9. Tess is horrified that everyone laughs at the story of Jack Dollop, whose future
wife did not tell him all about her past history before they got married. Tess feels
that the story, which echoes her own dilemma, is quite serious.
10. On a chilly September night, Angel and Tess ride some milk to the railway
station, where it will be shipped to London.
1. What is Angel’s true attitude toward the decline of renowned families?
2. What is the only modern encroachment upon the pastoral area around
Talbothays?
3. Why is Angel cheered by Tess’s revelation that she is a D’Urberville?

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4. What premarital advice does Joan give Tess?
5. Does Angel allow news of the marriage to be publicized?
6. Why is Angel forced to punch the man from Trantridge?
7. Do any of Angel’s or Tess’s close relatives attend the wedding?
8. What is Tess’s mood after the ceremony?
9. How do Marian, Izz, and Retty behave after the ceremony?
10. Where do Angel and Tess go for their honeymoon?
Answers
1. Angel does not believe that noble blood equals individual virtue, but his emotions
are stirred by the story of a family come down in the world.
2. A railway line is the only modern intrusion upon the area around Talbothays.
3. He feels that “society is slightly snobbish,” and Angel believes Tess’s aristocratic
lineage will make her more respectable and impressive to his family.
4. Joan counsels Tess not to tell Angel about the relationship with D’Urberville.
5. Angel asks the Cricks to keep the wedding date secret and also asks that the
banns (announcements of an upcoming marriage) not be called out in church. He
has arranged instead for a marriage license.

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6. The man from Trantridge has just stopped himself from completing an insult of
Tess. To avenge this attempted slight, Angel punches the man.
7. No one from either Tess’s or Angel’s immediate family attends the marriage
ceremony.
8. After the ceremony, Tess is apprehensive and fearful about the future. Angel tries
to coax and joke her out of this mood.
9. In the hours after the wedding, Retty Priddle has tried to drown herself, Marian
got very drunk, and Izz Huett has fallen into a severe depression.
10. Angel and Tess go to Wellbridge Manor, a converted farmhouse once owned by
the D’Urbervilles.
1. What prevents Angel from going into Tess’s bedroom when he hears her
breathing?
2. Why does Tess reject thoughts of suicide?
3. Where does Angel carry Tess in his sleep?
4. To what country does Angel decide to go?
5. What comment does her father make upon hearing that Tess has returned home?
6. Whom does Angel ask to accompany him overseas?

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7. What are Tess’s duties on the farm at Flintcomb-Ash?
8. What characters from Phase the First does Tess meet up with again at
Flintcomb-Ash?
9. Who takes Tess’s boots?
10. Whom does Tess observe preaching at a local barn?
Answers
1. The fearsome, sinister-looking portraits of the D’Urberville ancestors, which
remind Angel of Tess, cause him to turn back.
2. She does not want her action to bring suspicion or discredit upon Angel.
3. He carries her over a footbridge and into an open coffin.
4. Angel decides to go to Brazil, to investigate farming opportunities.
5. He asks if she really got married this time, or if her present relationship with
Angel is like her liaison with Alec.
6. Angel asks Izz Huett to go to Brazil and live with him, but soon comes to his
senses and rescinds the impulsive offer.
7. Tess must dig up turnip roots so they can be eaten by livestock. Her other duties
include trimming and storing those roots, as well as reed-drawing.

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8. The Darch sisters, Car (the Queen of Spades) and Nancy (the Queen of
Diamonds), are also working at Flintcomb-Ash.
9. Mercy Chant takes Tess’s boots.
10. Tess spots Alec D’Urberville preaching to a crowd outside a barn as she walks
back from Emminster to Flintcomb-Ash.
) Why has Hardy divided 'Tess of the d'Urbevilles' in 'Phases'?

Ans. Hardy has divided "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" into seven large sections called 'phases'. It is
interesting that Hardy has chosen the word 'phase' to describe each of these sections. It seems
to symbolize that Tess, like a plant, an animal, or the moon, goes through natural cycles of growth.
The 'phases' mark the major points of her emotional and spiritual growth, starting with "The
Maiden" and ending with "Fulfillment".
(ii) What is the setting of the novel 'Tess of the d'Urbevilles'?
Ans. Most of the action takes place in the late 19th Century in Southwestern England in the
country of Wessex, the fictional name of Dorset Country. Almost all of Hardy's novels take place
in this same general area. The other places include Marlott, Curitiba, and Salisbury.
(iii) In which village the novel 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' starts?
Ans. The novel "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" by Thomas Hardy starts from the village of Marlott. This
is Tess's childhood home and lay amid the northeastern undulation of the beautiful Vale of
Blakemore or Blackmoor.
(iv) What are the major symbols in 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles'?
Ans. Prince the horse, seal and spoon, Brazil, the d'Urberville coach, the d'Urberville family vault,
red and white, club-walking, the chases verses the slopes and cows are the major symbols in
"Tess of the d'Urbevilles".
(v) What are the major themes of 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles'?
Ans. The injustice of existence, changing ideas of social class in Victorian England, men
dominating women, fate and free will, memory and the past, nature and modernity, Paganism and
Christianity, contrasting regions, marriage, time and sex are the major themes of "Tess of the
d'Urbervilles".
(vi) What is foreshadowing?
Ans. Foreshadowing is a literary device in which a writer gives and advance hint of what is come
later in the story. It is used to avoid disappointment and arouse the reader. For example, "He had
no idea of the disastrous chain of events to follow". In this sentence, while the protagonist is
clueless of further developments, the readers learns that something disastrous is about to happen
for the protagonist.
(vii) What is the significance of the legend of the d'Urberville Coach?
Ans. The d'Urberville coach is an old legend of the family which Angel mentions and Alec later

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explains to Tess. The coach is a symbol of foreshadowing and the theme of fate that looms over
all the characters in the novel. Whenever a d'Urberville hears the sound of an invisible coach it is
supposed to be a bad omen. The coach also symbolizes the ancient idea of being punished for
one's ancestors.
(viii) Why did contemporary critics think that 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' was 'immoral'?
Ans. Contemporary critics like Mowbray Morris though that "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" was
'immoral' because people usually associated the Victorian Period with sexual repression and
general prudishness. Thus the sexiness in the novel made is 'immoral' in their eyes.
(ix) What defect marks the social life of the people in and around Trantridge?
Ans. The villagers around Trantridge live for the moment, disdaining the idea of saving for the
future. Many of them are hard drinkers.
(x) What does Hardy mean when he says that Angel's fastidious love could 'guard the loved
one against his very self'?
Ans. Angel really loves Tess. However, he has problems with Tess's sexual history. Though it
takes a while for him to reconcile her past with his ideas about sexual morality, he never stops
loving her and his devotion is always complete.
(xi) Who is Tess?
Ans. Tess is the heroine and moral centre of the novel "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" by Hardy. She
is beautiful and irresistible to men. She lives with her impoverished family in the village Marlott.
She is also young, innocent, and uneducated -- unaware that the world is rifle with lust, cruelty,
and vanity.
(xii) Why is it difficult for Tess to reject Alec outright when he asks her to become his
mistress?
Ans. It is difficult for Tess to reject the marriage proposal of Alec outright because Alec can offer
economic security, not only for Tess but her family as well.
(xiii) Who causes more destruction to Tess, Alec or Angel? Why?
Ans. Angel causes more destruction to Tess. Angel has a moral centre and knows right from
wrong. Alex is an idiot, an easily leadable wolf who has no redeemable qualities. Alex is
incompetent and cannot be held responsible. Angle is the only character in the novel who should
have known better, did know better and still behaves like a child.
(xiv) Why does Tess decide to leave Marlott?
Ans. Tess leaves the d'Urberbille estate when she is going to have a baby. Then she decides to
leave Marlott when she is hurt by her father words, when her father says that the people will laugh
at them again by the story of her marriage.
(xv) What does Stonehenge figure in Tess' end? What do you think it represents?
Ans. Stonehenge is a symbol of the ever-present past. It is Tess's final place of symbolic sacrifice
for her love for Angel Clare. Hardy's decision to end the novel at Stonehenge not only gives the
novel a dramatic and unforgettable ending, but also shows Hardy's characters' desire to see
paganism as an alternative for a wholly Christian belief system.

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The Mill on the Floss
Name The popular novels of George Eliot.
Adam Bede,
The Mill on the Floss,
Silas Marner,
Romola,
Felix Holt,
the Radical,
Middlemarch,
Daniel Deronda are the famous novels.
How is Maggie part of her own tragedy?
She is responsible for her wrong selections .Her relationship with Lucy's fiancé was intentionally she
knew the consequences but she did to make herself alive.
What is the symbolism of Maggie's sewing?
It symbolizes the that she has been in financial problems.
Why does Stephen love Maggie?
Because he is completely attracted to her body. And there is sign of sexual tension in them.
What are the feelings of Tom towards Maggie?
Tom loves her sister but not her careless attitude. Both are interlinked. once when Tom came home he
saw his rabbits dying because Maggie forgot to feed his rabbits. So, he is angry with her sister. But with
the time he got soft on her and forgive her.
What is the name of Maggie's mother?
Mrs.Bessy Tulliver is her mother. She is simple and dutiful lady. She favors Tom more than Maggie.
Describe the character of Maggie Tulliver?
She is leading the story of the novel. She is fully complex character. She is wise and has clever mind. She
is Tom's sensitive sister.
Who is Sends Mr. Tulliver?
Tom, He is son of Mr. Tulliver.
What does the Mr. Tulliver think of his daughter?
She is wise and clever and can handle any situation.

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Describe the Character of Mr. Philip?
He is very fine young man but becomes cripple because of accident. He is the lover of Maggie and son of
Mr.Wakem.
Who is childhood friend of Tom?
Bob Jakin.
Who is School teacher on the Novel?
Mr. Walter Stelling.
Maggie feel she has broken social rules when she escapes with Stephen?
Stephen is the fiancé of Lucy. Maggie and Stephen were attracted to each other both planned to escape
and they were successful but Maggie feels guilt that her elopement will hurt Lucy and Philip. Thus, she
came back but it was too late to forgive her.
What is the symbolism of river Floss?
It symbolizes destruction and torn feelings. It also symbolizes unpredictable emotions of Maggie.
Why does Maggie want to live with gypsies People?
Because, she has desires to live with them, teach them and rule over them.
Who is Tom Tulliver?
He is the son of Mr.Tulliver.He appreciates the sense of duty in people ,justice and fair dealings. He loves
her sister but dislikes her laziness.
What is the symbolism of music this novel?
Music symbolizes the better life.It represents emotions,feelings and desires.
What are the themes in the Novel?
Progress verses tradition,
Wrong choices,
The importance of sympathy are the themes of the novel.
Why does Tom hate Maggie?
Because she forgot to feed his rabbits and they all died because of her so that’s why he hates her.
Can you tell us the number of student in Tom's class?
He is only one there in Mr. Stelling's class.
How does Philip changes Maggie's life?
He is the person who changes her and become her real friend. Both share true feelings and emotions.
(i) Write the names of four novels of George Eliot.

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Ans. Adam Bede (1859), The Mill on the Floss (1860), Silas Marner (1861), Romola (1863), Felix
Holt, the Radical (1866), Middlemarch (1871-72) and Daniel Deronda (1876) are the novels of
George Eliot.
(ii) What does the Floss symbolize in 'The Mill on the Floss'?
Ans. River Floss stands for the cause of sustenance as well as ruin for the Tullivers. However,
the Floss is related most often to Maggie, and the river, with its depth and potential to flood,
symbolizes Maggie's deeply running and unpredictable emotions. The river's path, nonexistent
on maps, is also use to symbolize the unforseeable path of Maggie's destiny.
(iii) What purpose does animal imagery serve in 'The Mill on the Floss'?
Ans. Tom and Maggie are associated with animal imagery. The imagery is usually of farm-type
animals -- ponies, dogs, ducks -- and usually points to the character's capacity for affection or
non-adherence to social convention. Following Darwin, Eliot uses this imagery also to gesture
towards the wider relation between humans and animals that can be especially seen in young
children.
(iv) What is the symbolic importance of music in 'The Mill on the Floss'?
Ans. Music represents the better life, for which Maggie spends the entire book searching. This
sort of "musical" life is one of deep emotion and energy. Music has the ability to create an entire
world here, and it is often depicted as a safe heaven from harsh reality. Both Philip and Maggie
take comfort and joy in music. Music is also a way to experience and express heightened
emotions.
(v) What are George Eliot's views on education?

Ans. "The Mill on the Floss" is a sensible analysis of what education really means. She shows
that education should be adapted to the individual's talent; tradition and snob appeal have no
place in modern education. Latin and Greek are suitable for those people who have a genuine
interest in humanistic studies. She makes a strong case for the need of well-trained teachers.
(vi) What are the major themes of 'The Mill on the Floss'?
Ans. Loss of innocence, the difficulty of choice, the claim of the past upon present identity, the
importance of sympathy, the effect of society upon the individual, communal verses individual
interests, progress verses tradition, practical knowledge verses bookish knowledge, gender
disparity and love are the major themes of "The Mill on the Floss".
(vii) Interpret 'The happiest women, like the happiest nations, have no history'.
Ans. This line is from George Eliot's novel "The Mill on the Floss". It points that happiness fades
away one's past or history. The happiest nations enjoy themselves with their present and hardly
have any reminiscence of their past. Similarly the happiest women are usually private individuals
who do not have a public image, therefore, they have no history.
(viii) Interpret 'I desire no future that will break the ties of the past'.

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Ans. In this line Maggie sums up her views on the role of the past in her life and in her choices.
Though she has a substantial history with Philip, her ties with Tom are older and are therefore
stronger to her. Maggie refuses to let go of her past, but she has to grant weight to her oldest
memories and bonds.
(ix) Who is Maggie Tulliver?
Ans. Maggie Tulliver is the protagonist of the novel "The Mill on the Floss". She is a hugely
complex character. She is the intelligent, clever and emotionally sensitive daughter of a country
mill-owner. Her closest tie is to her brother Tom. She has dark skin, dark hair, and dark eyes. Her
life is the central story of the novel.
(x) What sort of commitments does Maggie feel she has broken when she elopes with
Stephen?
Ans. Stephen is engaged to Lucy. Maggie thinks that she has proved false to Lucy and violated
a social canon through her elopement with Stephen. She feels guilty that her elopement will also
hurt her lover, Philip. Thus she returns before the elopement with Stephen has led to sexual
intercourse.
(xi) What is the significance of Maggie's sewing?
Ans. Maggie's sewing shows that she has been in financial difficulty. Sewing, in general,
represents a way of repressing and controlling the self. The paraphernalia of sewing, especially
needles and scissors, take a sinister connotation in "The Mill on the Floss. Scissors are damaging
to Lucy and needles are fatal to Maggie's physical desires.
(xii) What is the significance of Maggie's encounter with gypsies when she runs away?
Ans. Maggie has a romantic view of gypsies. In running away to the gypsies, Maggie is motivated
mainly by desire of admiration. She is somewhat conceited about her learning. However, after her
encounter with gypsies, she sees her mistake. She goes in repentance and self-blame.
(xiii) What are Maggie's intentions towards the gypsies?
Ans. There are three intentions of Maggie towards the gypsies; she wishes to live with them, she
wants to teach them, and be their queen.
(xiv) What role does the town of St. Ogg's perform in hastening Maggie's tragedy?
Ans. St. Ogg's is a town ruled by gossip, rumors and prejudices. It is a tightly-knit community for
better or worse. And it is for worse for Maggie. Maggie is shunned by nearly everyone here. Tom
refuses to have anything with her. The river floods and Maggie is swept away in a boat. She goes
to rescue Tom. However, both Maggie and Tom drown in the flood.
(xv) Who is Tom Tulliver?
Ans. Tom Tulliver is the Tullivers' older son. He has his own clear sense of duty, justice, and
fairness. He has affection for his sister Maggie, but he dislikes her impetus way of doing what she
wants. When Mr. Tulliver goes bankrupt, Tom goes to work at a young age and brings the family
out of debt.

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The Mill on the Floss

Short Questions Answers
Why does Tom get mad at Maggie when he first gets home from school?
She let his rabbits die.
Which character intentionally wears her shabbiest clothes?

Mrs. Glegg.
What directly precedes Maggie deciding to run away to the gypsies?

Maggie pushes Lucy into the mud.
People of what profession does Mr. Tulliver particularly dislike?

Lawyers
What does Mrs. Tulliver think is going to kill Maggie?

Drowning
What was St. Ogg’s profession?

Boatman
Who helps Tom get his first job?

Mr. Deane.
What is Mr. Tulliver’s nickname for Maggie?

Little wench.

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When Mr. Tulliver loses his lawsuit against Mr. Pivart, who owns the mortgage on
the mill?
Mr. Wakem
Which character’s gift leads to a spiritual awakening for Maggie?
Bob Jakin
What is Dorlcote Mill’s town?

St. Ogg's
Who has a physical deformity?

Philip Wakem
What characteristic led Mr. Glegg to think Mrs. Glegg would be a compatible wife?
Her thriftiness
What is Mrs. Pullet particularly prone to doing?

Crying.
Who inadvertently causes Mr. Wakem to buy Dorlcote Mill?

Mrs. Tulliver.
Why does Philip think his father wouldn’t like him to get a letter from Maggie?
His father cares about position and wealth, neither of which Maggie has.
How old is Maggie when her father loses the mill?

13.

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What makes Maggie change her mind about Bob Jakin?

His offering money to Tom
What weapon does Mr. Tulliver use against Mr. Wakem?

A whip.
What did Tom Tulliver give Bob Jakin in their childhood?

A pocketknife
When Maggie is struggling over her feelings for Stephen, what does Lucy think is
going on?
She thinks Maggie’s upset about Philip.
What does Mr. Tulliver seek Mr. Riley's advice about?

Tom's education.
What book does Maggie show Mr. Riley that she is reading?
The History of the Devil.
Why does Tom first get angry at Maggie when he comes home from school in Book
First?
Because she has forgotten to feed his rabbits and they've died.
Why does Tom break off his friendship with Bob Jakin?
Because Bob does not play fairly.

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What impulsive action does Maggie take during the visit of her aunts and uncles in
Book First?
She cuts her own hair.
What do Mrs. Glegg and Mr. Tulliver have a disagreement over?

Tom's education.
Why does Mr. Tulliver ultimately decide not to press his sister for the money she
owes him?
Because he thinks of Maggie dependent upon Tom after his own death.
What are Maggie's intentions towards the gypsies?

To teach them and be their queen.
Who insists upon the repayment of the 500 pounds between Mr. Tulliver and Mrs.
Glegg?
Mr. Tulliver.
Who is Tom's only playmate during his first term with Mr. Stelling?
Laura Stelling.
Why is Christmas dreary after Tom's first term with Mr. Stelling?
Because Mr. Tulliver is preoccupied with litigation over the river water.
How does Philip Wakem first win Tom's respect?

His drawing skills.
What feature of Maggie's draws Philip to her?

88
Her eyes
What is Philip's first thought when Tom drops a sword on his own foot?
That Tom might fear he will be lame for life.
What is Mr. Tulliver reading when he has a stroke?

A letter stating that the mortgage of the mill has been transferred to Wakem
Why does Maggie become angry at her aunts and uncles during her father's illness?
Because they will not offer to buy any of the family's furniture.
What does Mr. Tulliver make Tom write in the family Bible?
A notice that Wakem is not forgiven.
How does Tom manage to pay off the family debt?

Through an entrepreneurial scheme with Bob Jakin
What is the significance of Maggie's sewing?

It shows that she has been in financial difficulty
Why does Maggie become angry when Stephen kisses her arm at the dance?
Because it shows that Stephen thinks lightly of her.
The first half of the novel ‘The Mill on the Floss’ is much concerned with education. How?
In “The Mill on the Floss” the first half of the novel is concerned about the education of Tom
and Maggie and differences of mode of education between Tom Tulliver and Maggie. The
title of book two is School-Time also.

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What does the river Floss symbolizes?
River generally symbolizes life but river Floss in this novel is the source of income and
destruction for Tulliver’s family. River Floss also symbolizes Maggie’s character, the depth
of Floss presents deep emotions of Maggie and unpredictable paths of Floss represent the
Maggie’s thoughts.
What are some noble features of Bob Jakin’s personality?
As a whole Bob Jakin character is nice and cool. He helps Tom to earn money, he helps
Tom family when they bankrupt and he gives books to Maggie are the major noble features
of Bob Jakin .
How flood is symbolic in the novel ‘The Mill on the Floss’?
Generally flood symbolizes destruction and in this novel it symbolizes the destruction of
Tulliver family.
Who is Bob Jakin? Describe his personality.
Bob Jakin is the childhood friend of Tom Tulliver and a comic character in the novel. He is a
cool and nice person. He helps Tom and his family.
Who is Mrs. Glegg?
Mrs. Glegg is the sister of Mrs. Tulliver and aunt of Tom and Maggie. She is oldest of
Dodson sisters and she preserved the family traditions. She is careful in use of money.
Describe the personality of Mr Tom Tulliver?
Mr. Tom Tulliver is the brother of Maggie and protagonist in the novel. He is hard worker,
proud, arrogant, prejudiced, responsible, determined and dutiful to the family.
Describe Bob Jakin as a child?
Bob Jakin is a poor and ridiculous boy in childhood. He is the friend of Tom in childhood and
they play together. Bob likes rat-catching and tree climbing.
Describe the manners of Mrs. Glegg?
Mrs. Glegg is a character that creates amusement in the novel. She shows superiority and
strict to family traditions. She declines the slice of cake because it is in contrast to her ethics
to eat between the meals. She shows her superiority by criticizing the family members.

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Describe the personality of Mrs. Glegg in your words?
Mrs Glegg is the oldest aunt of Maggie. She is severe in her mood and shows superiority,
pride and domination. She strictly follows the family traditions. She is authoritative,
judgmental and arrogant.
Joseph Andrews
Who is Mrs Slip Slop. Describe her personality in your own words?
Mrs Slip Slop is a woman servant of Lady Booby who pursues Joseph. Physically she was
an ugly woman.
Who is Betty? What type of girl she is?
Betty is a warm-hearted chambermaid at Tow-wouse Inn. She has good nature but lustful.
Who is Lady Booby?
Lady Booby is the widow of Sir Thomas Booby. she is hot-blood young woman. She tries
to seduce Joseph every way possible.
What is comic epic in prose?
Comic epic in prose is an epic presented comically that consist of comic hero, comic
fights, comic journey etc not in poetry but in prose.
What are the major themes of ‘Joseph Andrews’?
The major themes of ‘Joseph Andrew’ are helplessness and power of

goodness, affection, vanity, charity and religion, hypocrisy, and chastity, town and
country, class and birth, reality verses appearance, etc.
Who is Fanny? Describe her personality in your own words?
Fanny is the heroin of the novel and she is a beautiful young girl. She is gentle, sweet and
sensible girl.
Describe the personality of the Surgeon in ‘ Joseph Andrew’?
The Surgeon is a comic character. He tells Joseph that he will die soon due to his injuries.

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Who is Betty? What is her role in the novel ‘ Joseph Andrew’?
Betty is a warm-hearted chambermaid at Tow-wouse Inn. She looks after Joseph at Tow-
wouse Inn when he is injured by ruffains and fall in love with him. Joseph rejects her
amorous advances.
Who is Mr. Trulliber? Describe his personality?
Mr. Trulliber is a hypocritical country parson and he is a hog dealer. He

is completely lacking the virtue of charity. He parson only on Sunday.
Who is Peter Pounce?
Peter Pounce is a steward to Lady Booby. He is a dishonest man. He makes moneyfrom

the wages of the servant’s of Lady Booby.
Briefly state two features of fielding’s comic epic in prose?
Two features of Fielding’s comic epic in prose are the combination of comic epic and
prose epic, and the foundations for the novel.
What different services were performed by Joseph for Sir Thomas Booby?
Joseph performed the different servicesfor Sir Thomas Booby are as stable boyand
then footman to Sir Thomas’ wife Lady Booby.
Parson Adam is considered as the real source of intrest in the novel . It is true??
Yes it is true that Parson Adam is considered as the real source of interest in the
novel because of his absent mindedness, forgetfulness and simple-mindedness.
Who was parson Barrabas?
Parson Barabas was a punch drinking clergyman. He is more intrested in discussions of

legal matters than his religious purpose.
Who were the real parents of Joseph?
Mr. and Mrs. Wilson were the real parents of Joseph.
(i) What is a novel?

Ans. A novel is a long narrative, normally in prose, which describes fictional characters and
events, usually in the form of a sequential story. "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen and "A
Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens are famous English novels.
(ii) What is Fielding's concept of novel?

92
Ans. In his preface to "Joseph Andrews", Fielding claims that novel is a genre of writing "which I
do not remember to have been hitherto attempted in our language". He defined it as the "comic
epic-poem in prose": a work of prose fiction, epic in length and variety of incident and character,
in the hypothetical spirit of Homer's lost comic poem Margites.
(iii) Write the names of four novels of Fielding.
Ans. Joseph Andrews (1742), Jonathan Wild (1748), Tom Jones (1749) and Amelia (1751) are
the famous novels of Henry Fielding.
(iv) What factors influenced Fielding in his conception and composition of 'Joseph
Andrews'?
Ans. Fielding's first venture into prose fiction came a year previously with the publication in
pamphlet form of Shamela, a travesty of, and direct response to, the stylistic failing and moral
hypocrisy that Fielding saw in Richardson's Pamela. The impetus of the novel, as Fielding claims
in his preface, is the establishment of a genre of writing "which I do not remember to have been
hitherto attempted in our language".
(v) What is the purpose of the Author's Preface in 'Joseph Andrews'?
Ans. The purpose of Fielding's preface in "Joseph Andrews" is to define and defend his chosen
genre, "comic-epic poem in prose". He is particularly concerned to differentiate the comic epic,
and comedy generally, from burlesque. He also defends the various vices inserted in the novel.
(vi) How is the novel 'Joseph Andrews' related to 'Pamela'?
Ans. Fielding wrote "Shamela" as a satirical response to Richardson's "Pamela", and his longer
and more serious "Joseph Andrews" likewise draws on Richardson's novel for an equivocal sort
of inspiration. While "Shamela" is a straightforward travesty of "Pamlea", "Joseph Andrews" is
something more complex, and its relation to "Pamela" is something other than the relation of
parody to original.
(vii) Define digression.
Ans. A digression is a stylistic device authors employ to create a temporary departure from the
main subject of the narrative to focus on apparently unrelated topics, explaining background
details. However, after this temporary shift, authors return to the main topic at the end of the
narrative. There are several famous digressions in Homer, such as the "wall scene" in Book 3 of
the "Iliad".
(viii) What is the purpose of digression in 'Joseph Andrews'?
Ans. It is perhaps a development of Fielding's verbose writing style that he includes so many
digressions in "Joseph Andrews". There are three main interpolated tales in the novel. In regards
to these interpolated tales, Fielding employs a variety of tactics to make the stories more
believable. These inserted stories also illustrate other tensions related to writing a novel, such as
control and interruption.
(ix) Define the narrator?

93
Ans. A narrator is the voice that an author takes on to tell a story. This voice can have a personality
quite different from the author's. For example, in his story "The Tell-Tale Heart", Edgar Allan Poe
makes his narrator a raving lunatic.
(x) Define burlesque.
Ans. Burlesque is a literary, dramatic or musical work intended to cause laughter by caricaturing
the manner or spirit of serious works, or by ludicrous treatment of the subjects. Contrasting
examples of literary burlesque are Alexander Pope's "The Rape of the Lock" and Samuel Butler's
"Hudibras". W.S. Gilbert's "Robert the Devil" is an example of theatrical burlesque.
(xi) What is bildungsroman?
Ans. Bildungsroman is a special kind of novel that focuses on the psychological and moral growth
of its main character from his or her youth to adulthood. "Tom Jones" by Henry Fielding and "David
Copperfield" by Charles Dickens are examples of bildungsroman.
(xii) What is important about the plot of the novel 'Joseph Andrews'?
Ans. "Joseph Andrews" is a picaresque novel in structure, for its plot-line is similar to the one-line
structure of picaresque fiction. The plot of the novel progresses by "shutting', moving forward by
"small oscillations of emotion", which, in the larger, all-over design, are small parts of a unified
whole, episodic in nature. At times, events seem like reversals, followed by forward movement.
(xiii) What are the major themes of 'Joseph Andrews'?
Ans. The vulnerability and power of goodness, charity and religion, town and country, class and
birth, reality verses appearance, providence, affection, vanity, hypocrisy, and chastity are the
major themes of "Joseph Andrews".
(xiv) According to Fielding, what are the proper roles of clergy?
Ans. One role of the clergy would be charity, clearly evident in the character of Parson Adams.
Adams also illustrates the clergy's role in instructing the members of their parish, as well as
demonstrating and modeling Christian morals and propriety. Adam's character is the epitome of
honesty.
(xv) What is the significance of the letter from Joseph to his sister?
Ans. Joseph's letter to his sister Pamela is significant because it illustrates his innocence. He
thinks that Lady Booby is perhaps pursuing him, but charitably ascribes this to distraction over
the death of Sir Thomas. In any case, he anticipates his dismissal and advises Pamela of his
return to the Booby country-seat.
Pride and Prejudice

(i) Write the names of four novels of Jane Austen.
Ans. Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813), Mansfield Park (1814), Emma
(1815), Northanger Abbey (1818, Posthumous) and Persuasion (1818, posthumous) are the
novels of Jane Austen.
(ii) What was the original title for the novel 'Pride and Prejudice'.

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Ans.The manuscript of the novel was first titled "First Impressions". However, in 11791, the
manuscript was rejected by a publisher. Austen spent time refining it before it was published as
"Pride and Prejudice" in 1813.
(iii) Write the first line of the novel 'Pride and Prejudice'.
Ans. It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune,
must be in want of wife.
(vi) Why is Elizabeth so anxious to distrust Mr. Darcy at the start of the novel?
Ans. The first impression of Mr. Darcy is a sign of arrogance and pride. Due to pride and sense
of superiority, he does not accept the hand of Elizabeth for dancing, and says to his friend about
her "tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me". This creates a negative impression in her
mind. Thus she is so anxious to distrust Mr. Darcy.
(v) Why does Elizabeth refuse to marry Collins?
Ans. Elizabeth refuses to marry Collins because she does not love him. Elizabeth believes in only
marrying for love and no other reason. She is not fond of his personality. Moreover, he is an idiot.
(vi) How Elizabeth was ignorant of Wickham's character?
Ans. Everyone in Meryton is fooled, and Elizabeth even thinks about Wickham in a marriageable
kind of way. Wickham entertains Elizabeth with stories about the despicable Mr. Darcy. Mr.
Wickham charms the entire town of Meryton. After Mr. Darcy leaves the neighbourhood, he
spreads his sob story about Darcy's cruelty far and wide. Thus Elizabeth was ignorant of
Wickham's character.
(vii) Why was Elizabeth upset at her meeting with Darcy at Pemberley House?
Ans. Elizabeth was upset at her meeting with Darcy at Pemberley House because she began to
love him. She was surprised to hear about the good nature of Darcy by Mrs. Reynolds whom she
considered unbearably arrogant. Darcy's sudden arrival at Pemberley's House and his meeting
with her in the garden made her really upset.
(viii) Why is Darcy intrigued and attracted by Elizabeth?
Ans. Darcy is intrigued by refreshing disregard for his title. Elizabeth is one of those rare women,
the only one around him, whose self respect matches his pride. At the same time, he is attracted
by Elizabeth's eyes, wit and intelligence.
(xi) Why does Darcy's proposal make Elizabeth angry?

Ans. Elizabeth already hates Darcy because she thinks he is responsible for breaking up Jane
and Bingley, he has hurt Mr. Wickham, and has been rude to Lizzy. Now Darcy tells her outright
in the proposal that he does not want to be in love with her, because of their class differences,
but he can't help it. Thus Darcy's first proposal make Elizabeth angry.
(x) How do Elizabeth Bennet's ideas on marriage differ from her society's?

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Ans. Elizabeth wants to marry someone she actually loves and respects, and not just for a good
name or money. Her society's belief is that young ladies should make good matches for their
families' sake, to keep up a good reputation and be wealthy.
(xi) Write a note on Georgiana.
Ans. Georgiana is Darcy's younger sister. She is immensely pretty and just as shy. She has great
skill at playing the pianoforte. She has great reverence and affection for her brother and gets
along well with Elizabeth from their first meeting. Bingley's sisters had hoped that Mr. Bingley
would marry Georgiana, thus uniting the fortunes of the two families.
(xii) In which ways is Elizabeth different from the rest of the Bennet family?
Ans. Elizabeth is judgmental and that she speaks out what she wants and what she knows. She
is the only character who changes significantly over the course of the story. On the other hand,
other Bennets are stuck in their ways.
(xiii) How has Meryton community been described in 'Pride and Prejudice'?
Ans. Meryton is a little village where a militia regiment is quartered for a time, and where the
Meryton Ball takes place. This Ball is an event that shows community life in Meryton. The people
in Meryton are middle-class and every woman is in search of a man to ensure social stability.
People's opinions change really quickly and are general.
(xiv) How did Wickham agree to marry Lydia?
Ans. Wickham married Lydia for money. If Wickham did not marry Lydia, the reputations of both
Lydia and the entire family would have been ruined. Wickham agreed to marry Lydia because Mr.
Dacry agreed to pay off all his debts and pay him thousands pounds.
(xv) Why does Lydia risk by eloping with Wickham?
Ans. Lydia is all about money and social stature. Wickham is a pompous jerk but Lydia feels he
is her best chance at improving her fortunes both monetarily and socially.
Who is Mr. Hurst? In which novel he appears?

Mr. Hurst is the brother-in-law of Charles and Caroline Bingley. He is the husband of
Louisa Hurst and appeared in the novel Pride and Prejudice.
What type of girl is Miss De Bourgh?

Miss De Bourgh or Anne De Bourgh is the daughter of Lady Catherine and is a sick and
weak girl. She is generally a good-natured girl. She disapproves the union of Darcy and
Elizabeth because her mother wants Darcy to marry Anne De Brough.
Who is Charles Bingley?

Charles Bingley is the brother of Louisa Hurst and Caroline Bingley. He is Darcy’s best
friend and husband of Jane Bennet. He was twenty-two years old when they came and
reside in neighborhood of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet.

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What was the original title for the novel ‘Pride and Prejudice’?
The original title of the novel was “First Impressions”. However, the manuscript was
rejected by a publisher then refined and published as “Pride and Prejudice” in 1813.
Who is Charlotte Lucas?

Charlotte Lucas is the best friend of Elizabeth Bennet and an intelligent, sensible young
woman of twenty-seven. She marries to Mr. Collins.
What is the role of Charlotte Lucas?

Charlotte Locus was the best friend of Elizabeth and neighbor of her family. She
preferred marriage as social security and status gain instead of love and romance. She
married with Collins when Elizabeth declined his proposal.
What type of role Kitty (Katherine) Bennet plays in Pride and Prejudice?
Kitty (katherine) is the fourth daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. She was idle, vain and
ignorant girl. She follows her younger sister and is the source of embarrassment for the
family. At the end she learned much from her elder sisters Jane and Elizabeth. She is a
dynamic character.
Describe the personality of Mr. Collins?

Mr. Collins is the cousin of Mr. Bennet and a clergyman. He is pompous, narrow-
minded, silly, insensible and ridiculous man. His personality is a mixture of pride and
humility.
Write the names of four novels of Jane Austen.

Jane Austen’s novels are Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813),
Mansfield Park (1814), Emma (1815), Northanger Abbey (1818) and Persuasion (1818)
etc.
What is the role of Kitty (Kitherine)?

Kitty is a dynamic character. She is ignorant, vain, idle and source of embarrassment for
family at beginning but at the end she learned much from her elder sisters Jane and
Elizabeth.
Who is Mr. Collins?

Mr. Collins is the cousin of Mr. Bennet and a clergyman, he proposed Elizabeth for
marriage but Elizabeth rejected his proposal. He marries with Charlotte locus.

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What type of role Mr. Bennet plays in the novel Pride and Prejudice?
Mr.Bennet is the main Character in the novel Pride and Prejudice. He married to a
beautiful, flirt and vain girl as the penalties he got ridicules wife. He is an intelligent but
lazy person. He ridicules other persons but did not address his own problems.
Write the first line of the novel ‘Pride and Prejudice’.

The first line of the novel is “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in
possession of a good fortune must be in want of wife”.
What does Mrs. Bennet wish Mr. Bennet to do?

Mrs. Bennet wishes Mr. Bennet to make their acquaintance with Mr. Bingley.
What opinion does Mr. Bennet have of his daughters, with the exception of Lizzy?
Mr. Bennet has the opinion that his daughters are silly, foolish, and girly.
What recommends Mr. Bingley to Mrs. Bennet?
Mr. Bingley was handsome, young, rich, and very we'll mannered.
Describe Mr. Bennet's character
Mr. Bennet is clever, smart, and very patient.
What kind of young man is Mr. Bingley?
Mr. Bingley was very kind and thoughtful.
How does Mr. Darcy conduct himself at the ball?
Mr. Darcy was very rude and ill mannered.
Why doesn't Darcy ask Elizabeth to dance?
Mr. Darcy said that Elizabeth was not handsome enough for him.
Describe the personalities of Elizabeth and Jane.
Elizabeth is the most intelligent and is the second eldest of the sisters. Jane is more
reserved and the most beautiful. She is the oldest Bennet sister.
How does Charlotte excuse Darcy's pride?
She excuses it because of his pride and his background.

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A Tale of Two Cities
i) What were the conditions in France that led to the revolution?

Ans. Struggle for hegemony, social antagonism between aristocracy and the bourgeoisie, debt,
ineffective ruler Louis XVI, economic hardships, the rise of enlightenment ideals, resentment of
royal absolutism, food scarcity, and American influence were the major conditions in France that
led to revolution.
(ii) What is Dickens' attitude towards the French Revolution?
Ans. Dickens regards the French Revolution with some ambivalence. He seems to support the
revolutionary cause but also condemns the way the Revolution is conducted, often criticizing the
evil of the revolutionaries themselves. The message seems to be that in fighting oppression with
oppression, and acts of barbarism with acts of barbarism, there is no true revolution.
(iii) Interpret 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...'.
Ans. This is the opening line of the novel "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens. It describes
the time of French Revolution. It means, in simple terms, that the time period was filled with great
contradictions and extremes, from good to bad.
(iv) What is Bastille? What is its significance?
Ans. The Bastille was a fortress in Paris, known formally as the Bastille Saint-Antoine. It played
an important role in the internal conflicts of France and for most of its history was uses as a state
prison by the kings of France. It was stormed by a crowd on July 14, 1789 in the French
Revolution.
(v) Why the Bastille was attacked by the mob?
Ans. The Bastille was a prison where the French government kept its political prisoners. On July
14, 1789, a mob of revolutionaries attacked the fortress. It was a blood-thirsty, unruly mob that
Dickens metaphorically describes as "a raging sea" and "a whirlpool of boiling water". The attack
was a flash-point of the French Revolution.
(vi) What is the significance of Hotel De Ville?
Ans. The Hotel De Ville is a building in Paris, France, housing the city's local administration. The
Hotel De Ville is a nice sounding name for a not-so-nice place. It was where the government took
prisoners to be tortured.
(vii) Write a short note on Tellson's Bank.
Ans. Tellson's Bank near Temple Bar was an old-fashioned place, even back in 1780. It was a
very small, very dark, very ugly, and very uncomfortable. The partners who ran the bank were
old-fashioned too. They were proud of its smallness, darkness, ugliness, and discomfort.
(viii) What does the red wine symbolize in 'A Tale of Two Cities'?

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Ans. Throughout the novel win symbolizes the French Revolution's intoxicating power. Drunk on
power, the revolutionaries change from freedom fighters into wild savages dancing in the streets
and murdering at will. The red wine spilled in the street in Paris symbolizes the blood that will be
spilled in the Revolution.
(ix) What is the people's reaction to the broken wine cask?
Ans. People's reaction to the broken wine cask is to get on the ground and lick the wine as it flows
on the ground. They are excited that the rich lost something, and that they get to have it. So
hungry, and poor, are the people that they don't mind drinking off the street. Obviously, this shows
how bad the conditions in France are.
(x) How is 'honour' defined in 'A Tale of Two Cities'?
Ans.There are multiple versions of honour in the novel. However, the most effective is that a
person has honour who stands up for what is right and is willing to sacrifice all he or she has for
the betterment of others. Monsiur Defarge is honourable because she stands up for what she
believes, and Carton is honourable because he gives his life for a friend.
(xi) Who is Madam Defarge?
Ans. Madam Defarge is a fictional character in the novel "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles
Dickens. She is a tricoteuse, a tireless worker for the French Revolution, and the wife of Ernest
Defarge. She is one of the main villains of the novel, obsessed with revenge against the
Evremondes.
(xii) What is the significance of Madame Defarge pinning a rose in her hair?
Ans. Madame Defarge pinning a rose in her hair indicates to the revolutionaries to stop talking
about their revolutionary things. It is a signal that a spy is nearby and the revolutionaries must
watch what they say.
(xiii) Why is Madame Defarge so merciless towards Charles and his family?
Ans. Madame Defarge is merciless towards Charles and his family because Charles' family has
killed her family and she thinks they should be avenged.
(xiv) How and by whom Madame Defarge was killed?
Ans. In a scuffle with Miss Pross, Madame Defarge was killed by a bullet from her own gun. It
symbolizes Dicken's belief that the sort of vengeful attitude ultimately proves a self-damning one.
(xv) What is the slogan of the revolutionaries in "A Tale of Two Cities?
Ans. The slogan of the revolutionaries is "Liberty, equality, fraternity, or death". The
revolutionaries were the people engaged in changing the government of France. They wanted
the many freedoms that people deserve: liberty, equality, and fraternity. They also wanted
everyone on their side and were willing to "take out" those who did not agree.

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What is the La Guillotine? What was its purpose?
La Guillotine is a machine with a razer lace with an axil and a wooden plank under it. It
is used to behead by revolutionaries in the french revolution.
In witch year ‘A tale of two cities starts’? What is the name of first chapter of the novel?
The novel ” A Tale of Two Cities” started in 1775 and the name of the first chapter of the
novel is “Recalled to Life“.
Who is Jerry Cruncher?
Jerry Cruncher is an odd-job man for Tellson’s Bank. He called himself a “Resurrection-
Man,” because he digs up dead bodies and sells them to scientists.
What is the role of Sidney Carton?
Sidney Carton works with Stryver. He is in love with Lucie but Lucie love to Darney at the
end of the novel he sacrifices for his beloved and take place of Darney whom resembled his
appearance and beheaded.
Who is Miss Prose?
Miss Prose is the servant who raised Lucie. She is loyal to her mistress. Miss Prose is
a comic character. She at the end of novel quarrel with Madam Defarge and Madam
Defarge was killed by her own pistol shot.
Who is Jarvis Lorry?
Jarvis Lorry is the servant of Tellson’s Bank. He is honest, trustworthy, good and loyal
person.
What is the role of Gaspard in ‘A tale of two cities’?
Gaspard is a peasant whose child was killed by the Marquis Evermond’s carriage
and Gaspard killed Evermond after few days.
Write a short note on the character of Jerry Cruncher?
Jerry Cruncher is an odd-job man for Tellson’s Bank. He called himself a “Resurrection-
Man,” because he digs up dead bodies and sells them to scientists.
Why is the Jerry Cruncher called the resurrection man?
Jerry Cruncher is called the resurrection man comically because he digs up dead bodies
and sells them to scientists.

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Who was ‘buried alive for eighteen years’ in Bastille?
Dr Menette is the father of Lucie and a physician. Doctor Manette past eighteen years as a
prisoner in the darkness of Bastille. his prison symbolised as ‘buried alive for eighteen
years’ in Bastille.
What is the symbolic meaning of the ‘ Golden Thread’?
“Golden Thread” means here the link between Dr Menette and Lucie that Dr Menette cure
his health due to the care and affaction of Lucie.
How was Madam Defarge killed?
Madam Defarge killed by her own pistol shot durring fight between Miss Prose and her.
Who is Madam Defarge?
Madam Defarge is a cruel and tireless revolutionary. She hatred and blood thirstyof the
aristocracy and Evermond family. she was the wife of Monsieur Defarge. She was
a villian in the novel.
Who is Lucie?
Lucie Manette is a young French womanwho grew up in England. She was raised as a
ward of Tellson’s Bank because her parents were assumed dead. She was the daughter of
Dr Manette and heroin of the novel.
Who is Monsieur Defarge?
Monsieur Defarge is a wine shop ownerand revolutionary in the Saint Antoine section of
Paris. Monsieur Defarge was a servant of Doctor Manette before his imprisonment. He is a
natural leader of revolusionaries.
Who is John Barsad?
John Barsad is a British spy. He is the brother of Miss Prose.
What were the conditions in France that led to the revolution?
The major conditions in France that led to the revolution are Struggle for authority,
social hatred between aristocracy and the public, ineffective ruler Louis XVI, financial
hardships, the rise of insight, dislike of royal tyranny, food inadequacy, and American
influence etc.
What is Dickens’ attitude towards the French Revolution?
Dickens’ attitude towards the French revolution is that he favors the French Revolution
with some contradiction. He support the revolutionary cause but condemns the way of
Revolution is conducted. He criticizes the evil of the revolutionaries.

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1. What are the two cities of the novel’s title?
2. What purpose does the comparison of England and France serve?
3. What further comparison is implied by the connection of England and France?
4. Why is the coachman nervous when he hears a horse approaching?
5. What is the man on horseback’s true purpose, and what exchange takes place?
6. What does the narrator reflect upon concerning humankind?
7. For how long has the man in Jarvis Lorry’s thoughts been buried?
8. What else do we know of this man who has been “buried”?
9. Why is this all of the information the reader has on this subject?
10. How does this scene end?
Answers
1. The two cities are Paris and London.
2. It serves to show that people are very similar, no matter where they are.

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3. This connection makes the larger point that Dickens’ readers are not much
different from people during the time of the French Revolution.
4. The coachman fears that it may be a highwayman wanting to rob them.
5. He has a message for Jarvis Lorry: “Wait at Dover for Mam’selle.” Lorry, in
return, gives him the message: “RECALLED TO LIFE.”
6. The narrator reflects on the fact that no person can really know another person.
7. He has been buried for 18 years.
8. We know nothing else of this man.
9. This is all the information that the author supplies in order to build suspense so
that the reader will continue reading.
10. The scene ends with Jarvis Lorry looking out the coach window to see the sun
rising.
1. What does Mr. Lorry do upon arrival in Dover?
2. Whom does Lorry meet here, and what plans do they make?
3. How does Lorry begin to tell Lucie that her father is not dead?

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4. Why does he employ this method?
5. Why does Lorry insist to Lucie that all of his relations are mere business
relations?
6. What does Lucie say upon learning that she is going to see her father?
7. What are the two conditions concerning Dr. Manette?
8. What is Lucie’s reaction to this?
9. Who comes into the room at this point to help Lucie?
10. What is problematic about this portrayal of Lucie Manette?
Answers
1. He checks into the Royal George Hotel and takes a nap.
2. Lorry meets Lucie Manette here, and they make plans to go to France concerning
some property of her father. Since she thinks she is an orphan, she has asked the
bank to provide her with an escort.
3. He begins to tell her the “story” of a man like her father, who did not die 18 years
ago, but was imprisoned.
4. He fears that telling her that her father is alive may be more than she can
handle.

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5. She has grabbed his wrists in her fear. Lorry does not want to get personally
involved; as a model of organization and frugality, he must keep his distance.
6. She says, “I am going to see his ghost! It will be his ghost—not him!”
7. First, that he has lost his memory of any past life. Second, that he must be
removed from France in secret.
8. She sits silently in her chair, unable to utter a word.
9. Her servant, Miss Pross, enters and calms Lucie.
10. Lucie is portrayed as unable to take care of herself. She will constantly be
defined in terms of her reliance on others.
1. What is happening at the beginning of this chapter?
2. What does the man write on the wall? What does this foreshadow?
3. What kind of town is Saint Antoine?
4. Who are the proprietors of the wine-shop?
5. What is the significance of the name “Jacques”?
6. What is the impression of Madame Defarge from this chapter?

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7. Why does Defarge show Dr. Manette to the “Jacques”?
8. Where is Dr. Manette being held?
9. What is Lucie’s reaction upon seeing him?
10. What is Dr. Manette doing when they enter his room?
Answers
1. A cask of wine has broken open on the street of a Paris suburb. All of the
townspeople are engaged in drinking the wine and staining themselves with its red
color.
2. He writes “BLOOD.” This anticipates the real blood that will be spilled in the
name of revolution.
3. Saint Antoine is described as a place full of “cold, dark, sickness, ignorance, and
want.”
4. The proprietors of the wine-shop are Ernest and Therese Defarge.
5. The peasants adopted this name from what the nobility called them. They turned
a derogatory name into one that helped give them a sense of common purpose.
6. She is “stout” and ominous; she can be seen as the polar opposite of the diffident
Lucie Manette.
7. He feels that Dr. Manette is a symbol of the cruelty of the ruling class.

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8. He is being held in a tiny, dark room in an apartment above the wine-shop.
9. She is scared and reaches to Mr. Lorry for comfort.
10. He is bent over a bench, making shoes.
1. What is Dr. Manette’s condition?
2. What does Dr. Manette say his name is?
3. What is the significance of what he says?
4. What helps Dr. Manette begin to remember his past?
5. How soon do they decide to leave France?
6. Why does Mr. Lorry refer to “business” again?
7. What is Lucie’s “strength” in this chapter?
8. What is the importance of Dr. Manette returning to the shoe he is making?
9. What does Mr. Lorry say to Dr. Manette?
10. What is the nature of Dr. Manette’s reply? What function does his reply serve
regarding the plot?

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Answers
1. Dr. Manette is weak and feeble. He cannot remember his past; he cannot even
remember his name.
2. He says “One Hundred and Five, North Tower.”
3. This is the number of his prison cell and an illustration of how his long
imprisonment has stolen his identity.
4. Lucie shows that she loves him by showering him with affection.
5. They decide to leave France immediately.
6. He refers to “business” because he may be trying to deny that he is forming a

personal connection with the Manettes.
7. Her strength is that her love is able to do good–for instance, helping her father
remember his past.
8. This shows that he has a long way to go in recalling his past as a doctor.
9. Mr. Lorry asks Dr. Manette, “I hope you care to be recalled to life?”
10. Dr. Manette replies, “I can’t say.” This leaves the plot dangling, urging the
reader on to the next installment.

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1. How is Tellson’s Bank described at the beginning of the chapter?
2. What is the eighteenth century view of the death penalty in England?
3. Why does Jerry Cruncher call his wife “a conceited female,” and what is her
reaction to this?
4. What is the significance of the striking physical resemblance between Jerry

Cruncher and his son?
5. Why is there such a large crowd in the courtroom?
6. What does Jerry Cruncher ask the man who assumes that Darnay will be found
guilty?
7. Why do all eyes in the courtroom turn to Lucie Manette?
8. How is Lucie Manette different from those around her in the courtroom?
9. How is this strength undermined?
10. On what suspenseful note does the chapter end?
Answers
1. Tellson’s Bank is an unchanging, old-fashioned place, proud of its dirtiness and
ugliness.
2. The death penalty was in great use for even minor crimes.

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3. He calls her conceited because he assumes that she thinks her prayers are worth
something. She tells him that the prayers come from her heart, and that is all that
they are worth.
4. This shows that young Jerry will probably end up just like his father, stuck
rigidly in a low social class.
5. The crowd is large because many people wish to see a public execution.
6. He asks this man if he means “if” they find the defendant guilty. The man
assures Cruncher that the jury will find him guilty.
7. All eyes turn to her because of the striking expression of fear and compassion on
her face.
8. She is one of the few people in the courtroom who are able to feel pity for the
prisoner.
9. Her moral strength is undermined by her physical weakness, shown by her need
to cling to her father.
10. We learn that, although Lucie feels compassion for the prisoner, she is a witness
against him.
1. What does the Attorney-General say about the prisoner in his opening
statements?
2. Who are the two witnesses that the Attorney-General says will incriminate
Darnay?

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3. How does Stryver show that these two men are not credible witnesses?
4. Why is Lucie Manette called to the witness stand?
5. What did Darnay tell Lucie on the ship five years ago?
6. What leads to Darnay’s acquittal?
7. What problem concerning Dickens’ use of plot does this reveal?
8. What happens to Lucie Manette, once again, in this chapter?
9. What is the final line of this chapter?
10. What are the implications of this line?
Answers
1. He says that the prisoner has been engaged in secret business between France
and England for at least the past five years.
2. One is described as a patriot who has been able to figure out what the prisoner
has been doing; his name is John Barsad. The other is the prisoner’s former servant,
Roger Cly.
3. He shows that Barsad has been in debtors’ prison and that he owes the prisoner
money. Stryver proves that Cly is a thief who has been friends with Barsad for
many years.

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4. She is called to the witness stand because she talked to Darnay on a boat ride
from France to England five years before.
5. He told her that he was conducting business of a sensitive nature and that he
was traveling under an assumed name.
6. A man who looks exactly like Darnay proves to the jury that it is very easy to
mistake one person for another.
7. This plot twist is too coincidental to be believable.
8. Her physical strength fails her when she feels strong emotions.
9. The crowd is described as “dispersing in search of other carrion.”
10. This line implies that a crowd can easily develop a lust for violence that has
little to do with justice.
1. What is happening at the beginning of Chapter 4?
2. How does Darnay greet Lucie?
3. How does Dr. Manette look at Darnay? What does this mean?
4. What does their conversation reveal as the difference between Lorry and Carton?
5. What happens while Carton and Darnay are dining?

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6. Why does Carton say that he hates Darnay?
7. Why do Stryver and Carton meet?
8. What does Carton say about Lucie?
9. What else does Carton complain about?
10. What does the final paragraph say about Sydney Carton?
Answers
1. Dr. Manette, Lucie, Lorry, and Stryver are congratulating Darnay on his
acquittal.
2. He greets Lucie by kissing her hand.
3. He look at Darnay with “distrust,” “dislike,” and “fear.”
4. Lorry is a man of ambition who believes in “business,” while Carton, even though
he has ability, lacks the desire to do anything.
5. Carton gets drunk and calls himself “a disappointed drudge.”
6. He says that he hates Darnay because Darnay reflects everything good that
Carton could have been.
7. They meet because Carton does Stryver’s legal paperwork.

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8. Carton calls Lucie “a golden-haired doll.”
9. Carton complains more about his life and that he is always behind everybody
else.
10. It says that Carton has given up all hope of making anything of his life.
1. Where is Mr. Lorry going at the beginning of this chapter?
2. What is the tone of this chapter?
3. Is Miss Pross’ claim that “hundreds of people” visit the house accurate?
4. What has Miss Pross’ brother done to her?
5. What has Dr. Manette kept as a reminder of his 18 years in prison?
6. Who else comes to the Manettes’ house on this Sunday?
7. What is odd about Dr. Manette’s house?
8. Of what is this symbolic?
9. What happens when a storm approaches?
10. What is foreshadowed by the storm?

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Answers
1. He is on his way to dine with Lucie and Dr. Manette, with whom he has become
friends.
2. This chapter starts out with a tone of quiet normality but conveys an ominous
sense that this normality is about to be shattered.
3. No. In fact, only three visitors show up on this day.
4. He has stolen everything that she owns, yet she still holds him in high esteem.
5. He has kept his shoemaker’s bench and tools.
6. Charles Darnay and Sydney Carton are the other visitors.
7. The house has an acoustical property that allows distant footsteps to be heard as
if they were up close.
8. These distant footsteps are symbolic of the danger that is coming to the people in
the house.
9. The sound of echoing footsteps grows louder as people hurry for shelter from the
storm.
10. The storm foreshadows that something ominous is about to happen.

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1. What is the Marquis’ party like?
2. What does the Marquis believe about himself?
3. Describe what the Marquis looks like.
4. What happens as the Marquis is traveling to his chateau?
5. What is his reaction to this?
6. What does Defarge say to the distraught man in the nightcap?
7. What does Defarge do with the coin that the Marquis throws to him?
8. What does the mender of roads tell the Marquis?
9. What does this man represent?
10. How does this chapter end?
Answers
1. It is incredibly decadent, full of morally corrupt people who are only concerned
with how they look.
2. He believes that “the earth and the fulness thereof are mine.”

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3. He is 60 years old, with a cruel “face like a fine mask.”
4. His carriage runs over and kills a small child.
5. He blames the peasants and is so indifferent that he cares more about his horses.
6. He tells the man that the child is better off dead because it would have been
impossible for the child to have a happy life.
7. He throws the coin at the carriage as it is driving away.
8. He tells the Marquis that a man was riding on the outside of the carriage.
9. He represents the fact that the nobility has no idea that the peasants have any
power.
10. The chapter ends with the Marquis awaiting the arrival of “Charles … from
England.”
1. What is the Marquis’ chateau like?
2. What happens when the Marquis sits down to dinner?
3. What does this reveal about the Marquis?
4. Who is the nephew of the Marquis?

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5. How does Darnay feel about the family name?
6. What does his uncle reply?
7. What is the larger issue at stake in this conversation?
8. What is the Marquis’ final word about class?
9. What does Darnay do concerning the property in France?
Answers
1. His chateau is described as silent and made of stone.
2. He thinks that he hears somebody outside but quickly forgets about it.
3. It reveals that he thinks he is protected from any harm because of his class.
4. Charles Darnay is the Marquis’ nephew.
5. Darnay feels that the family name is feared and detested throughout France.
6. He tells Darnay: “Detestation of the high is the involuntary homage of the low.”
7. Darnay and the Marquis are debating the whole idea of class structure.

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8. He feels that it is “Better to be a rational creature … and accept your natural

destiny.”
9. He renounces the property, and he renounces France deciding that he wants to

settle in England for good.
10. The chapter ends with the Marquis murdered in his bed.
1. What is Charles Darnay’s occupation?
2. What does this reveal about his character?
3. What do Darnay and Dr. Manette discuss?
4. How does Dr. Manette react when Darnay tells him that he has a secret to reveal
to him?
5. What does Dr. Manette do after Darnay leaves?
6. What does this reveal about Dr. Manette’s character?
7. How does Lucie help Dr. Manette when she finds him at the shoemaker’s bench?
8. What does Stryver wish to confide to Carton?
9. What is Stryver’s opinion of Carton?

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10. Why is this opinion problematic?
Answers
1. He is a tutor of French language and literature.
2. This shows that he is industrious and that he has not forgotten his past in
France.
3. They discuss Darnay’s intention to marry Lucie.
4. He tells Darnay to wait until the morning of the wedding to reveal his secret.
5. He returns to making shoes.
6. It shows that he cannot forget his past, either; his way of dealing with this past is
by returning to it.
7. She takes his hand and walks with him for a long while.
8. He tells Carton that he intends to marry Lucie.
9. Stryver has a low opinion of Carton, telling him that he lacks social grace and is
“an insensible dog.”
10. It reveals Stryver as a hypocrite since it is Carton who does all of Stryver’s legal
work.

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1. What does Stryver decide to do at the beginning of the chapter?
2. What is the gist of Stryver’s conversation with Lorry?
3. How does Stryver react to this?
4. What does this say about his character?
5. Is Lorry capable of having both a business life and a personal life?
6. What is Stryver’s final comment about Lucie?
7. Who pays a call on Lucie?
8. How does Carton look to Lucie?
9. What does Carton tell Lucie?
10. Why does Carton love Lucie?
Answers
1. He decides to tell Lucie of his intentions so that she may know she is going to be
happy.
2. Lorry tells Stryver that he should not ask Lucie to marry him.
3. He proclaims that Lucie must be “a mincing fool” if she will not marry him.

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4. It shows that he is very arrogant and bitter.
5. Yes, he finally is. He achieves this by making a clear distinction between

business and friendship.
6. He says that “you cannot control … the giddinesses of empty-headed girls.”
7. Sydney Carton pays a call of Lucie.
8. He looks ill and she asks what she can do to help him.
9. He tells her that he loves her and that he is willing to die for her.
10. From the evidence given, it must be because of her “sweet compassion.”
1. What passes by Tellson’s Bank?
2. What is the crowd shouting?
3. What does the crowd do after the body is put in the ground?
4. Mr. Cruncher takes what tools with him when he goes out later that night?
5. Why does young Jerry follow his father? What does he find out?
6. What does Mrs. Cruncher think of her husband’s “occupation”?

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7. How does Mr. Cruncher view his “occupation”?
8. Why does young Jerry ask his father what a resurrection-man is?
9. What is comedic about this chapter?
10. Whose body could be inferred to have been dug up?
Answers
1. A funeral procession, followed by a large mob.
2. They are shouting “Spies! Pull ‘em out!”
3. They proceed to go on a rampage of violence and looting until a rumor spreads

that the guard is coming.
4. He takes a crowbar, a sack, and some rope and chain.
5. He is curious as to his father’s “business.” He finds his father digging up a grave.
6. She thinks it is a “dreadful business.”
7. He calls himself “an honest tradesman.”
8. It is young Jerry’s way of letting his father know that he approves of the grave-
robbing business.

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9. Mr. Cruncher actually believes that grave-robbing is an honest trade; thus he fits
the Victorian ideal of having a “labor.”
10. We can infer that is the Roger Cly’s body.
1. Why does Defarge bring the mender of roads to the wine-shop?
2. Who presents the petition to the King and what was the result?
3. What does it mean to be “registered?”
4. How is this register kept secret?
5. Where do the Defarges take the mender of roads?
6. How does the mender of roads act?
7. Why is Ernest Defarge happy with the way the mender of roads acts?
8. What does Madame Defarge say about dolls and birds?
9. To whom is she referring?
10. How does this scene end?
Answers
1. He brings the mender of roads to the wine-shop, so that the mender of roads can
hear the whole story of the man in the nightcap.

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2. Ernest Defarge presented the petition to the King; it was ignored and the man
was executed.
3. A person who is registered is marked to be killed when the revolution arrives.
4. Madame Defarge secretly knits the register in code.
5. They take him to see the King and Queen pass by.
6. He joins in the applause for the King and Queen.
7. He is happy because he feels that this adoration will lull the nobility into a false
sense of security, thus allowing the revolution to begin sooner.
8. She tells the mender of roads that he would naturally attack the finest birds and
dolls if it were to his advantage.
9. “Birds” and “dolls” represent the French ruling class.
10. Madame Defarge sends the mender of roads home to think about what she has
told him.
.
1. Why do the Defarges go to Paris?
2. What do they learn there?
3. What is distinctive about John Barsard?

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4. Why does Madame Defarge put a rose in her hat?
5. What is Madame Defarge doing while she speaks with Barsard?
6. What does Barsard tell the Defarges about the Manettes?
7. How does Ernest Defarge react to this?
8. What would happen if Darnay and the Manettes were to come to France?
9. How does Madame Defarge feel about this?
10. What are Madame Defarge and the other women doing as the chapter ends?
Answers
1. They go to Paris to meet with “Jacques of the police.”
2. They learn that there is a spy in St. Antoine, by the name of John Barsard.
3. He has a crooked nose.
4. It is a signal to the Jacques that there is a suspicious stranger amongst them.
5. She is knitting his name, thus condemning him to death.
6. He tells them that Lucie Manette is going to marry the nephew of the Marquis.

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7. He hopes that the Manettes stay in England.
8. They would be killed as nobility when the revolution arrived.
9. She is indifferent, saying only that they are registered.
10. They are “knitting, knitting, counting dropping heads.”
1. Of what do Lucie and her father assure each other on the night before her
wedding?
2. What does Dr. Manette speak of for the first time?
3. What does Lucie pray for that night?
4. How does Dr. Manette react to hearing Darnay’s secret?
5. Who is present at the wedding?
6. What does Dr. Manette say to Darnay after the wedding?
7. What does this reveal about Lucie’s character?
8. What does Dr. Manette do after Lucie and Charles leave?
9. How does Lorry react to this? What does he try to do?

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10. How long does this go on?
Answers
1. They assure each other that Lucie’s marriage will only make them closer.
2. He speaks of his 18 years in prison.
3. She prays that she may be able to stay as devoted to her father as she now is.
4. He hides his distress well, but Lorry notices that something is wrong.
5. Besides Lucie, Charles, and Dr. Manette, only Lorry and Miss Pross are at the
wedding.
6. He says, “Take her, Charles! She is yours!”
7. It reveals that her character is defined according to her relationship to the men
around her.
8. He returns to “making shoes.”
9. He tries to talk to Dr. Manette, but soon realizes that it is useless. He can do
nothing except keep watch over Dr. Manette.
10. It goes on for nine days.

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1. What happens after Dr. Manette’s ninth day of making shoes?
2. How does Lorry approach Dr. Manette concerning his relapse?
3. What does Dr. Manette say about the cause of this relapse?
4. How does Lorry convince Manette to allow him to destroy the bench?
5. What is the symbolic nature of smashing the bench?
6. Who visits the couple upon their return from their honeymoon?
7. What do Carton and Darnay talk about?
8. What function does this serve?
9. What does Lucie ask her husband to do?
10. Why does she ask this of him?
Answers
1. He regains his composure and stops making shoes.
2. He tells Manette he wants to speak of “a curious case” that he knows of.
3. He says it is caused by an apprehension that the “subject” is unable to talk about.

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4. He tells Manette that it should be done “for his daughter’s sake.”
5. It is symbolic of Dr. Manette’s attempt to put the past behind him.
6. Sydney Carton is their first visitor.
7. Carton and Darnay speak of the trial and the meal they shared afterwards.
8. It serves to clear the air concerning past events.
9. She asks him to be generous and kind to Carton and to not speak ill of him when
he is not present.
10. She says that she is aware of some deep wounds in Carton’s soul that he keeps
hidden from everybody else.
1. How many children does Lucie have? What are their fates?
2. What does the death of the second child signify?
3. What else happens as six years pass?
4. What news does Mr. Lorry bring that marks the beginning of the end of
normalcy?
5. What happens in Paris?

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6. What does Ernest Defarge do in the midst of the storming of the Bastille?
7. Why is this important?
8. What does Madame Defarge do to the governor’s dead body?
9. What does the final paragraph of this chapter have to say about Lucie?
10. To what event does the final paragraph refer?
Answers
1. She has two children. The daughter lives and flourishes while her son dies at a
young age.
2. His death shows that tragedy is always close by.
3. The six years pass calmly, and Lucie and her family build a quiet, uneventful
domestic life.
4. Lorry tells them that there has been a run of confidence on Tellson’s because of
the instability in France.
5. The peasants storm the Bastille.
6. He makes a guard take him to “One Hundred and Five, North Tower.”
7. It reveals that Dr. Manette’s imprisonment has deeply affected him.

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8. She cuts off his head.
9. It states a hope that the events in France do not affect her quiet life in England.
10. It refers to the wine that was spilled in St. Antoine many years ago.
1. How does Chapter 22 open?
2. What does Ernest Defarge tell the crowd at the wine-shop?
3. What is the result of this news?
4. How are the women who join Madame Defarge described?
5. What has Foulon said to the peasants before?
6. What is his fate?
7. Who joins him in this fate?
8. How could this relate to Charles Darnay?
9. How does Madame Defarge react towards Foulon?
10. What do the peasants do next?

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Answers
1. Madame Defarge and The Vengeance are sitting in the wine-shop, knitting.
2. He tells them that Foulon has been captured.
3. A mob forms and proceeds to where Foulon is being imprisoned.
4. They are described as “mad” women who leave their children behind.
5. He has said of the starving peasants that they might eat grass.
6. His head winds up on a pike, with his mouth full of grass.
7. His son-in-law soon has his head on a pike, next to him.
8. It shows what may happen to Darnay, nephew of the Marquis, if he were to come
to France.
9. She slowly kills him “as a cat might have done to a mouse.”
10. They burn down the Marquis’ chateau.
1. How many years have passed between chapters?
2. Why does Lorry decide to go to France?
3. Whom does he take with him?

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4. What has happened to the French nobility?
5. What is Mr. Stryver’s opinion of the situation in France?
6. From whom does Charles Darnay receive a letter?
7. What decision does this letter lead Darnay to make?
8. Whom does he tell of his plans?
9. Why is this decision unbelievable?
10. What is the main function of this chapter?
Answers
1. Three years have passed.
2. He is going to help out at the chaotic Paris branch of Tellson’s Bank.
3. He takes only Jerry Cruncher with him.
4. They are exiled in England, planning how to get their country back.
5. He thinks that the peasants should all be killed.
6. He receives a letter from Gabelle, the Marquis’ functionary in France. Gabelle is

now in prison.

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7. Darnay decides to go to France to help Gabelle.
8. He keeps his plan secret, telling no one.
9. Darnay would have to be aware of the incredible danger he was putting himself
in.
10. It serves to set up the action that will unfold in the novel’s final section.
1. What difficulties does Darnay meet at the beginning of his journey?
2. How does he finally reach Paris?
3. What decrees have been passed since Darnay has left England?
4. How is Darnay referred to by the officer in Paris?
5. Whom does Darnay meet in Paris?
6. What does Ernest Defarge say to Darnay?
7. What ominous phrase is connected with Darnay’s imprisonment?
8. What does Darnay learn of the King’s fate?
9. What does Darnay think of when in his cell?

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10. What is this a reference to?
Answers
1. He is stopped innumerable times and forced to show his papers before he can
proceed.
2. He reaches Paris under an armed escort.
3. Emigrants have lost all of their property rights and may be condemned to death.
4. He is referred to as “the prisoner.”
5. He meets Ernest Defarge.
6. He tells Darnay that he cannot help him because his allegiance is to the newly
formed state.
7. The phrase is “in secret.”
8. He learns that the King has been imprisoned.
9. He thinks, “He made shoes, he made shoes, he made shoes.”
10. This is a reference to Dr. Manette’s long imprisonment.
1. Where is Tellson’s Paris branch located?

137
2. What is on the grounds of this house?
3. Who comes to France in this chapter?
4. What does Defarge bring to Mr. Lorry?
5. Where does Lorry take the Defarges?
6. Why does Madame Defarge accompany them?
7. Is this the only reason?
8. What does Lucie ask of Madame Defarge?
9. What does Madame Defarge reply?
10. What is Mr. Lorry thinking as the chapter ends?
Answers
1. It is located in a house that the republic has seized from a nobleman.
2. There is a grindstone on the grounds of the house.
3. Lucie, her daughter, Dr. Manette, and Miss Pross come to France.
4. He brings a note from Dr. Manette.

138
5. He takes them to see Lucie.
6. The reason given is that she may see them, so that they may be protected.
7. There are hints that Madame Defarge has another reason; she wants to see Lucie
and the child so that she may register them.
8. She asks for her mercy concerning her husband.
9. She tells Lucie that one person’s suffering has become irrelevant.
10. He is greatly troubled as to Charles and Lucie’s future.
1. What does Dr. Manette keep secret from Lucie?
2. How does Dr. Manette gain influence with the new republic?
3. What is the slogan of this new republic?
4. What new device has led to more beheadings and how is this device described?
5. How does Lucie cope with her husband’s imprisonment?
6. What small consolation does Dr. Manette arrange for Lucie and Charles?
7. Where is the coincidental location of this spot?

139
8. What interest does the wood-sawyer take in Lucie?
9. Yet, who passes by this very spot soon after?
Answers
1. He does not tell her that 1,100 prisoners have been killed in the past four days.
2. He takes advantage of his status as a martyr in the eyes of the new republic.
3. “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, or Death.”
4. The guillotine is the device, and it is described as a “sharp female.”
5. She displays her “quietly loyal … and good” strength.
6. He arranges for Lucie to stand on a spot where Charles can see her from his
prison window.
7. It is right outside the shop of the wood-sawyer, who used to be the mender of
roads.
8. He outwardly claims that what she is doing is none of his business.
9. Madame Defarge appears at this spot.

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10. It ends with Dr. Manette announcing that Charles’ trial will be on the next day.
1. How is the court that tries Darnay described?
2. How does Darnay defend himself?
3. From whom did he learn to appeal to the court in this way?
4. What is the result of the trial?
5. To what can this courtroom scene be compared?
6. How does Lucie react upon seeing Charles?
7. What does Lucie do next?
8. What happens when Charles and Lucie return to their apartment?
9. How has this happened?
10. What mystery does the chapter end on?
Answers
1. It is a horrid place that looks as if “the felons were trying the honest men.”

141
2. He reminds the court that he is the son-in-law of Dr. Manette and he appeals
directly to the crowd’s emotions.
3. Dr. Manette advised him to proceed in this way.
4. Darnay is acquitted.
5. It can easily be compared to Darnay’s earlier trial in England.
6. She collapses “insensible” into his arms.
7. She recovers and offers a prayer to God.
8. Four soldiers show up and arrest Charles again.
9. The Defarges have denounced him.
10. It ends by saying that there is a third person who has denounced Darnay, but it
does not reveal who this third person is.
1. Who does Miss Pross see in the wine-shop?
2. What does Jerry Cruncher ask Solomon Pros, and what is this a reference to?
3. Who provides Jerry with an answer to his question?
4. What does Carton want with Barsad?

142
5. What do they discuss there?
6. What does Jerry Cruncher reveal about Roger Cly?
7. How does Barsad explain this?
8. To whom does Carton refer to in his comment about crowds and what is the point
of this?
9. What does Barsad tell Carton after Carton questions Barsad’s access to the
prison?
Answers
1. She sees her long-lost brother, Solomon.
2. He asks Pross what his name was back in England when he was a spy-witness at
Charles Darnay’s trial.
3. The just-arrived-in-France Sydney Carton states Barsad’s name.
4. He wants Barsad to accompany him to Tellson’s Bank.
5. They discuss why Carton has power over Barsad.
6. He reveals that Roger Cly was not in the coffin that Barsad claims he was in.

143
7. He says that Cly had to fake his death or risk being murdered by an unruly mob.
8. It refers to Charles Darnay’s being carried home on the shoulders of a crowd, only
to be arrested again.
9. He tells Carton that an escape is impossible.
10. It ends with Carton leading Barsad into a darkened room so that they can finish
their negotiations in secret.
1. Why is Mr. Lorry angry with Jerry Cruncher?
2. What deal has Sydney Carton worked out with Barsad?
3. What is Lorry’s reaction to this?
4. Where does Carton go after he leaves Lorry?
5. What does he do there?
6. What does Carton do for the rest of the night?
7. What goes through his head during this long night?
8. Where had he first heard these words?

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9. Who is the mysterious third person who has denounced Charles Darnay?
10. How has this denunciation come about?
Answers
1. Lorry feels that Cruncher has imposed on Tellson’s Bank by being a grave-robber
as well as an odd job man for the bank.
2. He has ensured access to Charles Darnay, once.
3. He says that this can do the prisoner no good.
4. He goes to a chemist’s shop.
5. He buys two chemicals that are dangerous when mixed together.
6. He wanders the streets of Paris.
7. He keeps thinking, “I am the resurrection.”
8. He first heard these words of the Lord at his father’s funeral.
9. The mysterious third person is Alexandre Manette.
10. Ernest Defarge produces a paper that is said to hold this denunciation.
1. What does this chapter consist of?

145
2. How do the two men who take Dr. Manette to the “patients” get him to enter the
carriage?
3. Who are the two patients?
4. How has the boy received his wound?
5. What is this boy’s fate?
6. What becomes of his sister?
7. What important fact does Dr. Manette not learn?
8. To whom does Dr. Manette confide his secret?
9. How does Dr. Manette learn the name of the two evil brothers?
10. What is the result of the reading of this letter?
Answers
1. The bulk of this chapter is a reproduction of the letter Dr. Manette wrote while he
was imprisoned.
2. The two men are armed, so Dr. Manette has no choice but to go with them.
3. A young peasant boy with a wound in his chest and his 20-year-old sister who is
“in high fever.”

146
4. The younger of the two brothers has stabbed him.
5. He dies after denouncing the two men and their family name.
6. She dies a week later.
7. He does not learn the names of the brother and sister.
8. He writes a letter to his minister.
9. The wife of the elder brother comes to him, asking him to help her make
atonement. She tells Dr. Manette their name.
10. Charles Darnay is condemned to die in 24 hours.
1. What does Lucie ask of the crowd at the trial?
2. Who helps Lucie when she faints?
3. What does Little Lucie say to Carton?
4. What happens to Dr. Manette in this chapter?
5. What does Carton learn about Madame Defarge while he is at the wine-shop?
6. What is ironic about this revelation?

147
7. What are Madame Defarge’s plans for Dr. Manette and Lucie?
8. What does Carton tell Lorry to do?
9. What does Carton give to Lorry?
10. What is the final condition that Carton gives Lorry?
Answers
1. She asks them to let her touch her husband for one last time.
2. Sydney Carton helps Lucie.
3. She says that she knows Carton will save her father.
4. He relapses into his shoemaking ways of prison.
5. He learns that she is the sister of those who were wronged by the Evremondes.
6. It reveals that she had personal motives when she earlier stated that individuals
do not matter in the revolution.
7. She plans to denounce both of them.
8. He tells Lorry to reserve a coach for two o’clock the next afternoon.

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9. He gives him certificates that will allow Carton, Dr. Manette, and Lucie to leave
France.
10. He tells Lorry, “Wait for nothing but to have my place occupied, and then to
England!”
1. How many prisoners are awaiting their deaths?
2. What does Darnay do once he resigns himself to dying?
3. Who is not in Darnay’s mind at all?
4. What does Sydney Carton tell Darnay?
5. How does Carton then proceed with his plan?
6. Whom does Carton call into the room to carry Darnay out?
7. Who does Carton meet as he awaits death?
8. What does this woman say to Carton?
9. What is Carton’s reply?
Answers

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1. Fifty-two prisoners are awaiting death.
2. He sits down and writes letters to Lucie, Dr. Manette, and Mr. Lorry.
3. Darnay does not think of Sydney Carton.
4. He tells Darnay that he comes with an urgent entreaty from Darnay’s wife.
5. He knocks Darnay out with the chemicals he purchased earlier.
6. Carton call John Barsad into the room.
7. He meets a woman who knew Darnay in the prison, La Force.
8. She asks him if he is dying for Evremonde (Darnay).
9. Carton replies that he is dying for him and his wife and child.
10. It ends with Lorry, Lucie, her daughter, Dr. Manette, and Darnay driving
towards England.
1. What does Madame Defarge decide at the beginning of the chapter?
2. Where does Madame Defarge then go?
3. What do we learn about Madame Defarge as she makes her way to Lucie’s
apartment?

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4. Whom does Madame Defarge meet at Lucie’s apartment?
5. What happens at the apartment?
6. What is the result of this struggle?
7. What does Jerry Cruncher do in this chapter?
8. What does Sydney Carton think of as he awaits the guillotine?
9. What are his thoughts regarding the future?
10. What are Sydney Carton’s final thoughts regarding his life?
Answers
1. She decides that Lucie, her daughter, and Dr. Manette all must die.
2. She proceeds to Lucie’s apartment.
3. We learn that she is a strong woman who has no pity because of the past
treatment of her family.
4. Miss Pross is the only person there.
5. Madame Defarge tries to leave but Miss Pross blocks the door.
6. Madame Defarge is shot, she dies, and Miss Pross is rendered deaf.

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7. He repents for all of his past sins.
8. He thinks of Lucie’s family as it will be in the future.
9. Carton is comforted by the idea that he will always be remembered by them.
10. They are, “It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far,
far better rest that I go to than I have ever known.”

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Prose
Francis Bacon
(i) Who was Bacon and what did he do?
Ans. Francis Bacon was born on 22 January 1561 in London. He was the son of Sir Nicholas
Bacon, keeper of the great seal of Elizabeth I. Bacon studied at Cambridge University and at
Gray's Inn and became a member of parliament in 1584. He served as attorney general and
Lord Chancellor of England during the Renaissance, but is is best know for his contributions to
philosophy.
(ii) What is your opinion about Bacon in the light of his character sketch?
Ans. Bacon is "One of those complex and contradictory natures which are the despair of the
biographer" (Long). Bacon had a dual personality. He was a mental giant but a moral dwarf.
Pope very aptly describes him, "The wisest, brightest, meanest of mankind." I agree with J.F.
Selby's statement: "He had a great brain; not a great soul."
(iii) What do the essays of Bacon tell about his age?
Ans. The essays of Bacon tell a lot about his age, Renaissance. These tell that this age has a
love for classical learning and natural beauty. It has the spirit of inquiry, individualism and
nationalism. It has pragmatic spirit, reformist zeal and Machiavellian approach to life.
(iv) What is aphorism?
Ans. Aphorism is a statement of truth or opinion expressed in a concise and witty manner. The
term is often applied to philosophical, moral and literary principles. For example, "Studies serve
for delight, for ornament and for ability". (Of Studies by Bacon)
(v) Why Bacon is called modern?
Ans. Comparing Bacon with his predecessors, Sidney, Lyly and Acham, it will be seen how
widely he departs from the prolix methods of the day. He has evolved such a prose style which
proves that English can be used as a medium of expression. Most of the lines from his essays
have always been acclaimed as immortal quotes. That is why he is called modern.
(vi) Why is Bacon's style aphoristic?
Ans. Bacon's style is aphoristic because there is a terseness of expression and an
epigrammatic brevity in his style. His sentences are brief, rapid and forceful. Indeed, his essays
are replete the aphorism. For example, "A lie faces God and shrinks from man."/"Suspicions
among thoughts are like bats among birds."
(vii) Why is Bacon's style different?
Ans. Comparing Bacon with his predecessors, Sidney, Lyly and Acham, it will be seen how
widely he departs from the prolix methods of the day. He has evolved such a prose style which
proves that English can be used as a medium of expression. Most of the lines from his essays
have been acclaimed as immortal quotes. That is why Bacon's style is different.
(viii) Is Bacon's precision his wisdom?
Ans. Precision is the quality, condition, or fact of being exact, accurate and clear. Precision is
the hallmark of good prose style not wisdom. Bacon's wisdom is, in fact, his understanding of
the affairs of the world. However, precision makes Bacon's wisdom easy to understand for
readers.

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(ix) What do Bacon's essays teach?

Ans. Bacon's essays teach us worldly wisdom. Worldly wisdom means the kind of wisdom that
is necessary for achieving worldly success. These teach us the art of how to get on this world,
how to become rich and prosperous, how to rise to high positions, how to exercise one's
authority and power so as to attain good results, how to gain influence, etc.
(x) Point out the Renaissance elements in Bacon's essays.
Ans. Pragmatical spirit, the Machiavellian approach to life, classical learning, love of beauty and
sensuousness, spirit of humanism, curiosity and love of travel, wealth of metaphor and analogy,
love of learning, emphasis on ethics and morality, and love of exploration are the Renaissance
elements in Bacon's essays.
(xi) Bacon's essays are full of wisdom. How?
Ans. Bacon is a man of Renaissance and man is the subject of his essays. He is a philosopher,
utilitarian and moralist. Therefore, "Beyond any other book of the same size in any literature
they are loaded with the ripest wisdom of experience." (Hudson)
(xii) Bacon's style is pithy. How?
Ans. A pithy style is one that is brief, terse and vigorously expressive. Bacon is a master of pithy
sentences in his essays. He ignores the unnecessary conceits and over crowded imagery of the
Enthusiast. However, every sentence in his essays is pregnant with meaning and is capable of
being expanded into several sentences. For example, "A mixture of a lie doeth ever add
pleasure.".
(xiii) Why is Bacon called a worldly moralist?
Ans. Bacon is called a worldly moralist because his essays teach us worldly wisdom. Worldly
wisdom means the kind of wisdom that is necessary for achieving worldly success. He teaches
us the art of how to get on this world, how to become rich and prosperous, how to rise to high
positions, how to exercise one's authority and power, and how to gain influence, etc.
(xiv) How are Bacon's essay an expression of brevity?
Ans. Brevity is to describe something great with the use of few words. Bacon possessed a
remarkable ability to express deep weighty and profound thoughts with an economy of
language. Most of his sentences can be expanded into whole paragraphs, and can be read like
proverbs, maxims or aphorisms. For example, "A mixture of a lie doeth ever add pleasure".
(xv) What is the major difference between Russell's and Bacon's prose style?
Ans. Bacon exhibits a stuffy style of writing whereas as Russell exhibits a plain and tough style
of writing. Bacon's style has low frequency words, third person pronouns, Greek and Latin
words, and complex sentences whereas Russell's style has high frequency words, first person
pronouns, Anglo-Saxon words and simple sentences.
According to Bacon, what are the main benefits of study?

According to Bacon the main benefits of study are delight, ornament and ability.
What does Bacon means by ‘writing makes an exact man’ in his essay ‘Of
Studies’?
Bacon means by ‘writing makes an exact man’ in his essay ‘Of Studies’ that writing
and thinking goes hand in hand. Writing enforces to think about what he believes and
what he want to communicate and he is always trying to get right word.

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What is Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Friendship’?

Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Friendship’ is the fruits of friendship that we share feelings
and emotions with friends, friends provide comfort and stability in hard time and lives as
unity and bond like pomegranate.
What are the fruits of friendship as described in ‘Of Friendship’ by Bacon?

The fruits of friendship are, we share feelings and emotions with friends and
friends provide comfort and stability in hard time and lives as unity and bond like
pomegranate.
What is Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Truth’?

Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Truth’ is on the high value of truth in Christianity and
people’s nature to get pleasure in lying and flirting.
Interpret ‘No pleasure is comparable to the standing upon the vantage-ground of

truth’.
This statement means the pleasure of the truth is like a man standing at the top of the
mountain and enjoying the beauty of vale and fresh air.
What is the main focus in ‘Of Revenge’?

Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Revenge’ is the arguments against the private revenge and
merit of the public revenge.
Why is Bacon against taking revenge?

Bacon is against taking revenge because revenge is against the moral law and
justice, revenge keeps his own wounds green and it leads to more anger and more
revenge.
What is the main focus in ‘Of Great Place’?

The main focus in ‘Of Great Place’ is position of a man at great place. He
discusses the life, duties and responsibilities of a man who got high place in society who
is the servant of fame, government and business but have power.
In what ways does the essay ‘Of Great Place’ reflect Bacon’s idealism?
Bacon himself got high place in society as Attorney General and Lord Chancellor.
Bacon like Machiavelli have practical wisdom so, the essay ‘Of Great Place’ reflects
Bacon idealism.
Who was Francis Bacon and what did he do?

Bacon was an essayist, philosopher, scientist and jurist and he served as Attorney
General and Lord Chancellor of England.

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What is Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Ambition’?

Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Ambition’ is on the merits and demerits of an ambitious
person and the utilization of an ambitious person.
What is Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Adversity’?

Bacon’s main focus in ‘Of Adversity’ is on the high value of adversity as a Christian
belief with respect to prosperity.
Why does Bacon use ‘Of’ before starting his essays?

Here ‘Of’ means about and Bacon uses it before starting his essays to particularize the
things as Ancient Roman writers uses the word ‘De’ before titles.
1. Discuss Aristotle’s Views on solitude/man as a social animal as quoted by Bacon.
Bacon begins the essay by invoking the classical authority of Aristotle on basic
humannature. First, he refers toAristotle’s view in Politics: Whosoever is delighted
in solitude is either a wild beast or a god. According to Aristotle, a man by nature
and behaviour may be degraded to such an extent that he may be called unfit for
society. Again, he may be so self-sufficient that he may not need society. In the first
case, he resembles a wild beast and in the second, he resembles gods. Here it should
be pointed out that Bacon is not ruling out the value of solitude; in fact, he is
reserving solitude for higher kind of life, which is possible for a few great men like
Epimenides, Numa, Empedocles, Apollonius and some Christian saints. Here
tooBacon is following Aristotelian view on solitude as expressed in Ethics,
where Aristotleprefers a contemplative life to an active life:
“It is the highest kind of life, it can be enjoyed uninterruptedly for the greatest length
of time...”
Bacon’s logic is that those wholive in society should enjoy the bliss of friendship for
more than one reason.
2. How does Bacon explain the first fruit of friendship?

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humannature as expressed by him inPolitics: Whosoever is delighted in solitude is
either a wild beast or a god. Here Bacon also follows Aristotelian view on solitude as
expressed in Ethics, where Aristotle prefers a contemplative life to an active life: “It
is the highest kind of life, it can be enjoyed uninterruptedly for the greatest length of
time...”
more than one reason. First of all, friendship is necessary for maintaining good
mental health by controlling and regulating the passions of the mind. In other
words, Baconhere speaks of the therapeutic use of friendship through which one can
lighten the heart by revealing the pent-up feelings and emotions: sorrows, joys, fears,
hopes, suspicions, advice and the like.
Then in order to justify the value of friendship, Baconpoints out the practice of
friendship on the highest social level. He informs us that the kings and princes, in
order to make friends, would raise some persons who would be fit for friendship.
Then Bacon tries to glorify friendship by translating the Roman term for
friendship,Participes curarum , which means ‘sharers of their cares’ . He gives
instances of raising of men as friends from the Roman history: Sylla and Pompey the
Great, Julius Caesarand Antonius, Augustus and Agrippa, Tiberius Caesar and
Sejanus, Septimius Severus and Plautianus. Bacon also refers to what Comineus
wrote of Duke Charles the Hardy’s deterioration of his mental faculty just because of
his reserve and loneliness and extends his judgement to the case of Comineus’ second
master, Louis XI. The point which Bacon strongly wants toassert is that friendship
functions for a man in a double yet paradoxically contrary manner: “...it redoubleth
joys, and cutteth griefs in halfs”.
3. What does Bacon say about the second fruit of friendship?
humannature as expressed by him inPolitics: Whosoever is delighted in solitude is

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time...”
Bacon’s logic is that those who live in society should enjoy the bliss of
friendship for more than one reason.
The second fruit of friendship, according to Bacon, is beneficial for the clarity
of understanding. If a man has got a faithful friend, he can be consulted to clarify the
confusions of the mind. He calls the counsel of a friend, citing Heraclitus, “drier and
purer” than that a man gives himself out of self-love, which clouds his
judgement. Bacon then counsel of this sort into two kinds: “the one concerning
manners and the other concerning business.” A friend’s constructive criticism of the
other friend’s behaviour helps him more than a book of morality. In the matter of
conducting practical business, Bacon thinks, a true friend’s advice can also be helpful
in undertaking a venture or averting a danger.
4. What does Bacon say about the third/last fruit of friendship?
human nature as expressed by him in Politics: Whosoever is delighted in solitude is
time...”
Bacon’s logic is that those who live in society should enjoy the bliss of friendship for
Bacon concludes the essay commenting on the last fruit of friendship, which is
manifold in the sense that there are so many things in life, which can be fulfilled only
with the help of a friend. In fact, at a rare moment Bacon gets emotional and quotes
classical maxim that “a friend is another self”. His point is that a man may have many

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a desire, which may not be realised in his life-time, but if he has got a true friend, his
unfulfilled desire will be taken care of by his friend. Not only this, a friend, unlike the
near and dear ones and enemies, can talk to him on equal terms whenever situation
demands. Keeping all these things, Baconconcludes that if a man does not have a
friend, he may well leave this world. That is to say, he is not fit for the human society
to live in.
5. Explain the expression“Whosoever is delighted in solitude is either a wild beast or

a god”.
humannature. First, he refers toAristotle’s view in Politics: Whosoever is delighted
in solitude is either a wild beast or a god. According to Aristotle, a man by nature
and behaviour may be degraded to such an extent that he may be called unfit for
society. Again, he may be so self-sufficient that he may not need society. In the first
case, he resembles a wild beast and in the second, he resembles gods. Here
too Bacon is following Aristotelian view on solitude as expressed in Ethics,
where Aristotle prefers a contemplative life to an active life:
“It is the highest kind of life, it can be enjoyed uninterruptedly for the greatest length
of time...”
6. Explain the expression,“Magna civitas, magna solitude”.
In order to justify the value of friendship Bacon brings in the Latin proverb “Magna
civitas, magna solitude”, which means “A great city is a great solitude”. This proverb
was coined by a comic poet, who punned upon the name of Megalopolis (a great city)
and applied to the city of Babylon as a great city of great desert. Bacon’s point is that
in a great city friends are scattered and therefore city life is not favourable for
friendship.

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7. What is the meaning of the phrase “participles curarum”? Why does Baconrefer to
this?
In order to justify the value of friendship, Bacon points out the practice of friendship
on the highest social level. He informs us that the kings and princes, in order to make
friends, would raise some persons who wouldbe fit for friendship. ThenBacon tries to
glorify friendship by translating the Roman term for friendship, Participes curarum,
which means ‘sharers of their cares’. The title was given by the Roman Emperor
Tiberius to his minister Sejanus.
8. “...it redoubleth joys, and cutteth griefs in halfs”. How does Bacon prove this?
In order to justify the value of friendship, Bacon points out the practice of friendship
on the highest social level. He informs us that the kings and princes, in order to make
friends, would raise some persons who would be fit for friendship. Then Bacon tries
to glorify friendship by translating the Roman term for friendship, Participes
curarum, which means ‘sharers of their cares’. He gives instances of raising of men
as friends from the Roman history: Sylla and Pompey the Great, Julius Caesar and
Antonius, Augustus and Agrippa, Tiberius Caesar and Sejanus, Septimius Severus
and Plautianus. Bacon also refers to what Comineus wrote of Duke Charles the
Hardy’s deterioration of his mental faculty just because of his reserve and loneliness
and extends his judgement to the case of Comineus’ second master, Louis XI. The
point which Bacon strongly wants to assert is that friendship functions for a man in
a double yet paradoxically contrary manner: “...it redoubleth joys, and cutteth griefs
in halfs”.
9. Who was Heraclitus? Why does Bacon quote his saying:“Dry light is ever the best”?
Heraclitus was a Greek philosopher, famous for brief enigmatic sayings. One
of his sayings is: “Dry light is ever the best”. Here Bacon calls the counsel of a friend,
citing Heraclitus, “drier and purer” than that a man gives himself out of self-love,
which clouds his judgement. Bacon then counsel of this sort into two kinds: “the one
concerning manners and the other concerning business.” A friend’s constructive
criticism of the other friend’s behaviour helps him more than a book of morality. In

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the matter of conducting practical business, Bacon thinks, a true friend’s advice can
also be helpful in undertaking a venture or averting a danger.
10. “...if have not a friend, he may quit the stage”. Why does Bacon say this?
Finally, Bacon speaks of the last fruit of friendship, which is manifold in the sense
that there are so many things in life, which can be fulfilled only with the help of a
friend. In fact, at a rare moment Bacon gets emotional and quotes classical maxim
that “a friend is another self”. His point is that a man may have many a desire, which
may not be realised in his life-time, but if he has got a true friend, his unfulfilled
desire will be taken care of by his friend. Not only this, a friend, unlike the near and
dear ones and enemies, can talk to him on equal terms whenever situation demands.
Keeping all these things, Bacon concludes that if a man does not have a friend, he
may well leave this world. That is to say, he is not fit for the human society to live
in.
Culture and Imperialism
(i) Who is Edward Said?

Ans. Edward Wadie Said (1 November 1935 - 25 September 2003) was Palestinian American
literary theorist and public intellectual who helped found the critical-theory field of post-
colonialism.
(ii) Why is Edward Said famous?
Ans. As a cultural critic, Edward Said is famous for his book "Orientalism", one of the most
influential scholarly books of the 20th century. He is also famous as the founder of the academic
field of postcolonial studies.
(iii) What are the nicknames of Edward Said?
Ans. The full name of Edward Said is "Edward Wadie Said". He has two famous nicknames; Ed
Wadie and Ed Said
(iv) What is the source of 'Culture and Imperialism'?
Ans. "Culture and Imperialism" is indebted to Grasmsci in several respects, even if less obviously
than The World, the Text and the Critic. Grasmsci unfinished essay on the southern question is
one of Said's points of reference as a work that sets the stage for the critical attention given in the
Prison Notebooks to the "territorial, spatial and geographical foundations of life."
(v) What is the main focus of Edward Said in 'Introduction to Culture and Imperialism'?
Ans. The main focus of Edward Said in "Introduction to Culture and Imperialism" is the modern

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Western empires of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. He wants to describe a more general
pattern of relationships between the modern metropolitan west and its overseas territories. His
aim is to set works of art of the imperialist and post-colonial eras into their historical context.
(vi) When was 'Culture and Imperialism' published?
Ans. "Culture and Imperialism" is a collection of essays by Edward Said published in 1993. It
followed his highly influential "Orientalism", published in 1978.
(vii) What is the connection between 'Culture and Imperialism' and 'Orientalism'?
Ans. "Culture and Imperialism" is a collection of essays by Edward Said published in 1993. Said
attempts to trace the connection between imperialism and culture in the 18th, 19th, and 20th
centuries. It followed his highly influential "Orientalism", published in 1978. Said conceived of
"Culture and Imperialism" as an attempt to "expand the argument" of "Orientalism".
(viii) What are different attitudes towards culture according to Edward Said?
Ans. According to Edward there are two types of attitudes towards culture. One that considers
culture as a concept that includes refining and elevating element, each society's reservoir of best
that has been known and thought. The other is the aggressive, protectionist attitude viewing
culture as a source of identity that differentiates between 'us' and 'them', and power with which
we can combat the influences of the foreign cultures.
(ix) What is imperialism?
Ans. Imperialism is a type of advocacy of Empire. It is a policy of extending a country's power and
influence through colonization, use of military force, or other means. Edward Said uses the term
more broadly to describe any system of domination and subordination organized with an imperial
center and periphery.
(x) What damages has imperialism caused in the past?
Ans. Imperialism has resulted the mixture of cultures and identities on a world scale. For centuries
the foreign imperialists have behaved in the underdeveloped world like nothing more than
criminals. U.S. military intervention in the Third World has occurred every year between 1945 and
1967.
(xi) What is the relationship between culture and imperialism of the West?
Ans. The relationship between culture and imperialism of the West is direct and dynamic. The
culture is not free from prejudices; it is also not objective and neutral. The vocabulary of classic
19th century imperial culture - "inferior", "subject races", "subordinate peoples", "dependency",
and "authority" - recurred and repeated in the great writings of British and French - is a part of the
story of relationship between culture and imperialism.
(xii) What does Edward Said mean by civilization?
Ans. Civilization means the betterment of ways of living, making Nature bend to fulfill the needs
of humankind. It also includes organizing societies into politically well-defined groups working
collectively for improved conditions of life in matter of food, dress, communication, and so on.
(xiii) What is colonialism?
Ans. Colonialism is the establishment of a colony in one territory by a political power from another
territory, and the subsequent maintenance, expansion, and exploitation of that colony.
(xiv) What is post colonialism?
Ans. Post-colonialism is an academic discipline featuring methods of intellectual discourse that

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analyze, explain, and respond to the cultural legacies of colonialism and imperialism. Post-
colonialism in literature includes the study of theory and literature as it relates to the colonizer-
colonized experience.
(xv) What are literary illusions?
Ans. A literary illusion is a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical,
cultural, literary or political significance. It does not describe in detail the person or thing to which
it refers. For example, "Don't act like a Romeo in front of her." - "Romeo" is a reference to
Shakespeare's Romeo, a passionate lover of Juliet, in "Romeo and Juliet."
Who is Edward Said?

Edward Said was a Palestinian Americanand Professor at Columbia University. He
was political activist, literary critic and founder of the postcolonial studies.
Why is Edward Said famous?
Edward Said is famous as a founder of post colonialism critical theory.
What is the source of ‘Culture and Imperialism’?

The source of ‘Culture and Imperialism’ is the ‘Orientalism’.
What is the main focus of Edward Said in ‘Introduction to Culture and Imperialism’?
The main focus of Edward Said in ‘Introduction to Culture and Imperialism’ is
the relationship between the imperial and imperializes culture.
When was ‘Culture and Imperialism’ published?

‘Culture and Imperialism’ is consist of essays written by Edward Said and was published in
1993.
What is imperialism?
Imperialism is a policy of one country to extend his power and influence on foreign
country, to use natural resources of that country.
What is colonialism?
Colonialism is a policy or practice of developed countries to make colonies in foreign
backward countries by force and get partial or full political control.
What is post colonialism?

Post colonialism is the study of political, social, economic, religious and cultural
conditions of colonies and the effect of colonial rules on culture and religion etc.
What are literary Allusions?

Literary Allusion is a literary device or figure of speech and it is an indirect reference to a
literary character, literary place, literary thing or event in a literature work.

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What are literary Illusions?

An illusion is something that is untrue and not real. It tricks the human mind into thinking
an unreal into a real.
Write the names of four works of Edward Said?

Edward Said works are “Orientalism”, “Covering Islam”, “The World, the text and the
critic”, “Nationalism, Colonialism and Literature”, ”Out of Place: A Memoir” and
“Culture and Imperialism”.
Why does Edward Said call American ‘A Dishonest Broker’?

Edward Said called American ‘A Dishonest Broker’ because America in the peace
process between Palestine and Israel supported the Israel.
UNPOPULAR ESSAYS
(i) Write the names of contents of 'Unpopular Essays' by Russell.

Ans. There are 12 contents of "Unpopular Essays" which are; Philosophy and Politics, Philosophy
of Laymen, The Future of Mankind, Philosophy's Ulterior Motives, The Superior Virtue of the
Oppressed, On Being Modern Minded, An Outline of Intellectual Rubbish, The Functions of a
Teacher, Ideas that have Helped Mankind, Ideas that have Harmed Mankind, Eminent Men I have
Known, and Obituary.
(ii) Is Russell's 'Unpopular Essays' about unpopularity?
Ans. The book called 'Unpopular Essays' is not about unpopularity. It is a collection of very
popular essays on various subjects. There are several sentences in this book, says Russell, which
some unsually stupid children of the age of ten may find difficult to understand. That being so, he
could not claim the essays would be popular, and so, if not popular, then, unpopular.
(iii) Why are Russell's essays so difficult?
Ans. The subject matter of Russell's essays is difficult for average readers. Russell's style appeals
mainly to intellects and very little to feelings or emotions. He uses words simply as tools, to convey
his meaning plain and effective and not to produce any special effects. Moreover, there is no
passion in his style; it is somewhat cold. That's why Russell's essays are so difficult.
(iv) Why is Russell so complicated?
Ans. Difficult subject matter, style devoid of feelings, effectless words and unknown logicism make
Russell very complicated for average readers.
(v) How is Russell a pacifist?
Ans. A pacifist is a person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable. Russell
condemned both sides in World War I (1914-1918), and for his uncompromising stand he was
fined, imprisoned, and deprived of his teaching post at Cambridge. In World War II (1939-1945),
he was an ardent opponent of nuclear weapons.

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(vi) Why is Russell apposed to irrationality in human life?

Ans. According to Russell the whole conception of sin is merely a manifestation of the
superstitious bent of mind. He says when man abandons his own reason and is content to rely
upon authority, there is no end to his troubles. It is the irrational belief that human nature cannot
be changed, and that, for this reason, there will always be wars. That is why Russell is opposed
to irrationality in human life.
(vii) 'Man' is the basic concern of Russell. Why?
Ans. Man is the basic concern of Russell because he is not only a philosopher but also a humanist.
His pacifism, championship of democracy and moral fervour prove that he has the good of
mankind at heart.
(viii) What is the main focus of Russell's 'Philosophy and Politics'?
Ans. The main focus of Russell's "Philosophy and Politics" is the disastrous political
consequences of Hegel's philosophy and the merits of Lock's philosophy of empiricism. Russell
says that empiricist liberalism is the only philosophy that can serve mankind's purposes in our
times.
(ix) Why does Russell favour the idea of world government?
Ans. Russell is a great believer in a single government for the whole world. In his essays "The
Future of Mankind" and "Ideas That Have Helped Mankind", he insists that the world can be saved
from wars and total extinction of the human race through the establishment of a world-
government.
(x) What is the difference between Hegel and Locke's philosophy?
Ans. Hegel philosophy is that true liberty consists in obedience to an arbitrary authority, free
speech is an evil, absolute monarchy is good, war is desirable, and an international organization
for the peaceful settlement of disputes would be a misfortune. Whereas Locke's philosophy offers
a theoretical justification of democracy. It preaches religious toleration, representative institutions,
and the limitations of governmental power by the system of checks and balances.
(xi) What does Russell suggest for the Middle East?
Ans. Russell expresses his opposition to what he views as European imperialism in the Middle
East. In the Middle East, Russell suggests that the West should avoid opposing Arab nationalism,
and proposes the creation of a United Nations as peacekeeping force to guard Israel's frontiers
to ensure that Israel is protected from aggression and prevented from committing it.
(xii) How would you define 'empiricism'?
Ans. Empiricism is a theory that states that knowledge comes only or primarily from sensory
experience. John Locke is a leading philosopher of British empiricism.
(xiii) Interpret 'Change is one thing, progress is another'.
Ans. This line is from Russell's essay "Philosophy and Politics". In this line he says that 'change'
and 'progress' are two different things. 'Change is scientific and 'progress' is ethical; 'change' is
indubitable whereas 'progress' is a matter of controversy.
(xiv) What are the three possible scenarios for the future of mankind?
Ans. Russell begins his essay, "The Future of Mankind", with three possible scenarios for the
future of mankind. The first scenario is the extinction of the human race with the third world war.

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The second scenario is that the world would revert to a state of barbarism. And the third scenario
is the unification of the world under one united power.
(xv) Why does Russell want a safe and prosperous future of mankind?
Ans. Russell wants a safe and prosperous future of mankind because he is a humanist. His
pacifism, championship of democracy and moral fervour prove that he has the good of mankind
at heart.
Write the names of contents of ‘Unpopular Essays’ by Russell.

The names of the contents of ‘Unpopular Essays’ by Russell are Philosophy for
laymen, Philosophy and Politics, The future of mankind, Function of a teacher, Ideas
that have helped mankind, ideas that have harmed mankind, Intellectual Rubbish, On
being modern minded and Philosophy’s ulterior motives.
Is Russell’s ‘Unpopular Essays’ about unpopularity?

Russell’s ‘Unpopular Essays’ not about unpopularity but about philosophy, politics
and wellbeing of humanity.
How is Russell a pacifist?

Russell is against the war and opposes the idea of First World War so; he loses his job
at Trinity College Cambridge. For this reason he is called pacifist.
What is the difference between Hegel and Locke’s philosophy?

Locke’s philosophy of empiricismsuggests a theoretical justification of democracy,
religious toleration, representative institutions, and the limitations of governmental
power by the system of checks and balances but Hegel’s philosophy of dogmatism is
that true liberty consists in obedience to an arbitrary authority, free speech is an evil,
absolute monarchy is good, war is desirable, and an international organization for the
peaceful settlement of disputes would be a misfortune.
How would you define ’empiricism’?

Empiricism is philosophy in which limitations of gov’t through system of check and
balance, liberty of speech, religious tolerance and against the war. Empiricism is
opposite to dogmatism. Democritus and Lock were Empiricists.
What are the three possible scenarios for the future of mankind?
The end of life on the planet, world would return to primitive or barbarism or unification
of nations under one government are three possibilities for the future of mankind.
What does Russell discuss in ‘The Philosophy of Laymen’?

Russell discusses in ‘The Philosophy of Laymen’ the theoretical and practical aspects
of philosophy and importance of philosophy in the life of laymen.

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What does Russell mean by ‘Intellectual Rubbish’?

Russell means by ‘Intellectual Rubbish’ is that peoples follow false belief, superstitions
and baseless opinions without inquiring their validity.
What ideas did help mankind in pre-historic times?

The ideas that have helped mankind in pre historic times are increase in population,
invention of language, invention of fire, taming of animals, invention of agriculture and
art of writing etc.
What evil passions have harmed mankind?

The evil passions are men’s cruel impulses, pride, envy, delusion and superstitions’
that have harmed mankind.
LYTTON STRACHEY
(i) In his preface, what does Strachey claim are his goals in writing 'Eminent Victorians'?
Ans. Strachey says that he has attempted to present some Victorian visions to the modern eye.
His choice has been determined by simple motives of convenience and of art. His purpose is to
illustrate rather than to explain. He claims a brevity which excludes everything that is redundant
and nothing that is significant.
(ii) What are the contents of 'Eminent Victorians'?
Ans. "Eminent Victorians" is a book by Lytton Strachey, first published in 1918 and consisting of
four leading figures from the Victorian era. These figures are: Cardinal Manning, Florence
Nightingale, Thomas Arnold, and General Gordon.
(iii) What are Strachey's targets of irony?
Ans. Strachey is best known for his ironic attitude towards the subject of his biographical studies.
His targets of irony are evangelicalism, liberalism, humanitarianism, education and imperialism .
He is best known for "Eminent Victorians". He established the ironical writing of biography as a
literary art.
(iv) Who was General Gordon?
Ans. General Gordon (1833 - 1885) was a British army officer and administrator. He became a
national hero for his exploits in China and his ill-fated defense of Khartoum against Sudanese
rebels.
(v) When and where was General Gordon born?
Ans. General Gordon was born on January 28, 1833 at Woolwich in London - one of 11 children,
5 girls and 6 boys in a closely-knit and very happy family of a Royal Artillery officer.
(vi) Why is General Gordon always studying his Bible?
Ans. General Gordon's reading was confined almost entirely to the Bible; but the Bible he read
and re-read with an untiring, an unending assiduity. There, he was convinced, all truth was to be
found; and he was equally convinced that he could find it.

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(vii) What is the physical appearance of General Gordon?

Ans. Gordon's unassuming figure, short and slight, with its half-gliding, half-tripping motion, gave
him a boyish aspect, which contrasted, oddly, but not unpleasantly, with the touch of grey on his
hair and whiskers. There was the same contract between the sun-burnt brick-red complexion -
the hue of the seasoned traveller - and the large blue eyes, with their look of almost childish
sincerity.
(viii) What services did General Gordon render for Britain?
Ans. Gordon saw action in the Crimean War as an officer in the British Army. He was anxious to
fight in the Crimea. He was put to work in the Siege of Sevastopol and took part in the assault of
the Redan from 10 June to 8 September.
(ix) What services did General Gordon render for China?
Ans. In 1860 General Gordon volunteered to serve in China. In 1863 he entered Chinese service
to suppress the Taiping rebellion. For his exploits in China, Gordon became a national hero.
Nanjing's fall in July 1864 marked the end of one of the greatest civil wars in world history.
(x) Why was General Gordon given the nickname 'Chinese'?
Ans. General Gordon made his military reputation in China, where he was placed in command of
the "Ever Victorious Army", a force of Chinese soldiers led by European officers. In the early 1860,
Gordon and his men were instrumental in putting down the Taiping Rebellion, regularly defeating
much larger forces. For these accomplishments, he was given the nickname "Chinese Gordon".
(xi) What services did General Gordon render with the Khedive?
Ans. In 1873 the Khedive Ismail of Egypt appointed Gordon governor of the province of Equatoria
in the Sudan. Gordon mapped the upper Nile River and established a line of stations along the
river. He established his ascendancy over this vast area, crushing rebellions and suppressing the
slave trade.
(xii) What services did General Gordon perform as the governor general of Sudan?
Ans. As the governor general of Sudan, Gordon rendered many services. He mapped the upper
Nile River and established a line of stations along the river. He established his ascendancy over
this vast area, crushing rebellions and suppressing the slave trade.
(xiii) Why was General Gordon sent to Khartoum?
Ans. In 1884 Gordon was sent to Khartoum in Sudan by the British government to evacuate
Egyptian forces from Khartoum.
(xiv) When and why did General Gordon return to Europe?
Ans. In 1880, ill health forced General Gordon to resign his post of governor general of Sudan
and return to England.
(xv) How did General Gordon meet his death?
Ans. In 1884 Gordon was again sent to the Sudan by the British government to evacuate Egyptian
forces from Khartoum. Khartoum came under siege a month later, and on January 26, 1885, the
Mahdists broke into the city and killed General Gordon at the Governor-General palace about an
hour before dawn. The manner of his death is uncertain.

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Gulliver’s Travels
What is the symbolic significance of Lilliput?
Lilliput is symbolized the political, religious and social affairs of England. Small size
signifies low morality, high-heels and low-heels signify the Whigs and Tories and big-
endian and little-endian signify Catholic and Protestant etc.
How do the Lilliputians treat Gulliver when they first encounter him?
They fasten him in strings and put him on a cart which driven by thousands of miniature
horses.
What is the significance of size in ‘Gulliver’s Travels’?

In ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ the small sizesignifies the low morality as selfish, vain,
petty etc.(Lilliputian) and the big size signifies the high morality like noble, good,
peaceful etc.(Brobdignagian).
Who is Gulliver?
Gulliver is the protagonist of the ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ and narrator of the story. He
belongs to middle-class family in Nottingham shire, England. He is intelligent and well
educated.
Who are Lilliputians?

The Lilliputians are inhabitants of the island where Gulliver reached after his ship
wrecked in the sea. They are six inches in height. They are ruled by an Emperor. They
are selfish, vicious, morally corrupt, deceitful and jealous, filled with greed and
ingratitude.
How did Gulliver help the king of Lilliput?

Gulliver helped the king of Lilliput by stealing the Blefuscudian ships. It is easy job for
him that water is up to his waist level but difficult for Lilliputians because of their small
height.
What is the great service performed by Gulliver to the Emperor of Lilliput, and what is
this reward?
The great service performed by Gulliverto the Emperor of Lilliput is that Gulliver
steals the Blefuscudian ships and he rewarded by the highest military award in Lilliput.

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What are the two empires fighting about in ‘Gulliver’s Travels’?

The two empires fighting about in “Gulliver’s Travels” are Lilliput and Blefuscu. These
two empires stand for fighting between England and France in the early 18th century.
The Yahoos stand for the evil in man. Explain.

Yahoos stand for the evil in man. They shows the eagerness for pearls, lust, envy,
deceit etc.
What do Small Endians and Big Endians stand for in ‘Gulliver’s Travels’?
Small Endians stand for the Protestant and Big Endians stand for Catholic in the
“Gulliver’s Travels”.
Is Swift a pessimist?
Yes, Swift is a pessimist. He has a pessimistic view of human kind in “Gulliver’s Travels”
but not completely. He has a hope of betterment.
Has ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ been written for children?

‘Gulliver’s Travels’ has been written for adults not for children but it is popular in children
because it is like fairy tales. Little peoples, tall peoples and floating island were
interesting elements for children but these have symbolic meanings for adults.
Is ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ interesting?

Yes, “Gulliver’s Travels” is a very interesting story for children and adults because it is
full of adventures and elements of fairy tales. The satirical and allegorical presentation
is also very interesting.
Is ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ a tragic work?

“Gulliver’s Travels” is a tragi-comedy. It is mingling of tragic and comic elements. Tragic
elements like ship wrecked, Gulliver tighten in strings, locked in cell etc. Comic
elements like peoples were of six inches height, high-heels and low-heels, big-endings
and low-endings etc.
What is the purpose of Swift in writing ‘Gulliver’s Travels’?

The purpose of Swift in writing ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ is to bring reforms in society, religion
and politics of Europe specially England.

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Who are Swift’s satirical targets?

Swift’s satirical targets are politics, religion, education, science, society, women, the
nature of man and the king in the 18th century England in “Gulliver’s Travels”.
Who are Blefuscudians?

Blescudians are pigmies of six inches like Lilliputians. Blefuscue symbolizes the France.
What is mock-utopia?
“Utopia” refers to a perfect place or society and “mock-utopia” means presenting a
perfect place or society in mocking style like “Gulliver’s Travels” part four by Jonathan
Swift is a mock-utopia.
How ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ is a satire?

“Gulliver’s Travels” is a satire because Swift presented the British and European society
and politics allegorically through these travels. Travel to Lilliput is satire on Whigs and
Tories (low-heels and high-heels), Catholic and Protestant (big-endings and little-
endings), and England and France (Lilliput and Blefuscu) etc.
What is the real title of ‘Gulliver’s Travels’?

The real title of “Gulliver’s Travels” is “Travels into Several Remote Nations of the
World, by Lemuel Gulliver”.
(i) What is the real title of 'Gulliver's Travels'?

Ans. The real title of "Gulliver's Travels" is "Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World, by
Lemuel Gulliver".
(ii) What is mock-utopia?
Ans. Mock-utopia refers to the idea that a society might appear to be idyllic or might want to
appear idyllic, but there is no such thing as a perfect society. "Mock" means pretend or fake and
"utopia" refers to a perfect place. "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift is a mock-utopia.
(iii) How 'Gulliver's Travels' is a satire?
Ans. "Gulliver's Travels" serves as a biting satire. Swift uses mock seriousness and
understatement; he parodies and burlesques; he presents a virtue and then turns it into vice. The
tone of the book varies from mild wit to outright derision. He is constantly attacking British and
European society through its descriptions of imaginary countries.
(iv) Is Swift a pessimist?
Ans. No doubt, Swift has a very pessimistic view of human kind in "Gulliver's Travels". However,
the book is not a sermon of hopeless pessimism but a farsighted overview of the social and
ideological tenets of bourgeois progress. Thus Swift is a hopeful pessimist.

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(v) Has 'Gulliver's Travels' been written for children?

Ans. "Gulliver's Travels" is not really a children's book, but it has been seen as a children's story
from the start: little people, big people, talking horses. However, since it publication it has been
popular with both children and adults.
(vi) Is 'Gulliver's Travels' interesting?
Ans. "Gulliver's Travels" is a story of adventure and has several elements in it of a fairy tale. Both
adventure and fairy-elements in a story greatly appeal to the readers. Thus "Gulliver's Travels" is
a very interesting story.
(vii) Is 'Gulliver's Travels' a tragic work?
Ans. "Gulliver's Travels" is not a wholly tragic work. It does not have a clear tragic hero. It would
be quite appropriate to call is a tragic-comedy.
(viii) What is the purpose of Swift in writing 'Gulliver's Travels'?
Ans. Swift's main purpose in writing "Gulliver's Travels" is to reform the weakness and inability of
the English government and political world through the different places that he has artfully created
in this book. He also wants reforms in the inappropriateness of war, the fickleness of the English
social atmosphere, and the corruption of the legal universe in Swift's era.
(ix) Who are Swift's satirical targets?
Ans. Education, politics, religion, science, society, the nature of man and the king in the 18th
century England are the satirical targets of Swift in "Gulliver's Travels".
(x) What is the allegorical significance of the floating island of Laputa?
Ans. The floating island of Laputa is about 4.5 miles in diameter, with an adamantine base, which
its inhabitants can maneuver in any direction using magnetic levitation. The rebellion of Lindalino
against Laputa is an allegory of Ireland's revolt against Great Britain.
(xi) What are the two empires fighting about in 'Gulliver's Travels'?
Ans. Lilliput and Blefuscu are the two empires fighting about in "Gulliver's Travels". They represent
the constant fighting between England and France in the early 18th century.
(xii) What is the significance of size in 'Gulliver's Travels'?
Ans. The small size of Lilliputians and Blefuscudians is an indication of their moral stature. The
Lilliputians are petty, vain, spiteful, self-important, and ready to make a war at the drop of a hat.
The Blefuscudians favour opening eggs on the big end, in opposition to the position of the
Lilliputians, and declare a war on Lilliput. On the other hand, the giant Brodingnagians are good,
noble and peace-loving.
(xiii) Who is Gulliver?
Ans. Lemuel Gulliver is the narrator and protagonist of the story. He is the only genuinely
developed character in the whole book. He is the son of a middle-class family in Nottingham shire,
England. Although he is intelligent and well educated, his perception are naive and gullible.
(xiv) Who are Lilliputians?
Ans. The Lilliputians inhabit the first island Gulliver visits. They are men six inches in height but
possessing all the pretension and self-importance of full-sized men. They are ruled by an
Emperor. They are mean and nasty, vicious, morally corrupt, hypocritical and deceitful, jealous
and envious, filled with greed and ingratitude -- they are, in fact, completely human.

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(xv) How did Gulliver help the king of Lilliput?

Ans. Gulliver helped the king of Lilliput in different ways. He helped the king specially in military,
by stealing the Blefuscudian's navy.
What makes the Houyhnhnms' society ideal or a model for humans?
Answer: From Gulliver's perspective, the Houyhnhnms have established the ideal
society. In fact, when he returns home to England, he cannot stand the sight or
smell of humans and prefers to spend his time in the barn with his horses. The
Houyhnhnms are more rational than the Yahoos and the other peoples in the
novel. Note other ways that the Yahoos are unlike the Houyhnhnms.
Part 1
Study Questions
1. Where does Gulliver meet the Emperor?
2. How is Gulliver fed?
3. Why does the Lilliputian government go to such trouble to feed and shelter Gulliver if
he is so dangerous because of his size?
Answers
1. Gulliver meets the Emperor for the first time in the house where he is being kept.
2. To feed Gulliver, the villages around the capital provide six beeves (oxen), forty
sheep, and a proportionate quantity of other foods and beverages.
3. The Lilliputian government goes to great trouble to provide for Gulliver’s needs
because he can be used as an ally against the enemy country, Blefuscu.
Study Questions
1. What is the great service performed by Gulliver to the Emperor of Lilliput, and
what is his reward?

173
2. Does Gulliver’s influence continue to increase?
3. What is the first event that gets Gulliver into trouble?
4. How does putting out the fire in the palace get Gulliver into deeper trouble?
5. How does Gulliver interrupt the narrative in Chapter Six?
6. How does Gulliver explain the difference between the ideal laws of Lilliput and
its present corrupt condition?
7. How are children brought up in Lilliput?
8. What was Gulliver’s daily life like in Lilliput?
9. What was the specific reason Flimnap gave in his conference with the Emperor
for discharging Gulliver?
10. How did Gulliver “vindicate a great lady?”
Answers
1. Gulliver removes the fleet of Blefuscu by wading and swimming there and taking
the ships to Lilliput with ropes, preventing an invasion of Lilliput. He is rewarded
by being made a Nardac, Lilliput’s highest title of honor.
2. Gulliver’s influence declines, despite his services, because of intrigues.

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3. The first event that gets Gulliver into trouble is his refusal to cooperate in the
total conquest of Blefuscu, which antagonizes the Emperor.
4. Gulliver gets into deeper trouble because he has polluted the palace by putting
out the fire by urinating on it.
5. Gulliver interrupts the narrative in Chapter Six by describing the laws and
customs of Lilliput.
6. According to Gulliver, conditions began to decline in Lilliput during the reign of

the grandfather of the current Emperor, when officials were first required to
perform acrobatic feats. Things have gotten even worse in recent years.
7. In Lilliput, according to Gulliver, children are brought up in public nurseries and

schools, not by the parents. They are brought up carefully, according to their sex
and social condition.
8. Gulliver’s daily life in Lilliput included making furniture for himself out of large
trees, and being clothed and fed on a large scale by the Lilliputians.
9. Flimnap advised the Emperor to discharge Gulliver because the expense of

supporting him was a strain on Lilliput’s economy.
10. Gulliver vindicated Flimnap’s wife by declaring that when she visited him she
was accompanied by several other people.
Study Questions
1. How does Gulliver hear of the charges against him?
2. What are the main charges brought against Gulliver by the Lilliputians?

175
3. What is the original proposed punishment of Gulliver, and what is the final
punishment?
4. Who brings about the compromise regarding Gulliver’s punishment?
5. How does Gulliver escape from the Lilliputians?
6. How does the Emperor of Blefuscu receive Gulliver?
7. How does Gulliver leave Blefuscu?
8. How does Gulliver get to England?
9. How long does he stay in England?
10. What enables him to go on his second voyage?
Answers
1. Gulliver is informed of the charges against him by “a con¬siderable person at
Court” who owed Gulliver a favor.
2. The main charges brought against Gulliver by the Lilliputians are polluting the
palace by urinating on it, refusing to destroy Blefuscu by taking all its ships, having
conversations with its ambassadors, and planning to go there.
3. The original proposed punishment of Gulliver is death; the final punishment, to

which the Lilliputians sentence him, is blinding followed by gradual starvation.

176
4. The Principal Secretary for Private Affairs of Lilliput, Reldresal, Gulliver’s

friend, brings about the compromise by which Gulliver’s life is to be spared.
5. Gulliver escapes from Lilliput by wading and swimming to Blefuscu, putting his
clothes in a Lilliputian ship which he tows with him.
6. The Emperor of Blefuscu receives Gulliver with hospitality, refusing to send him
back to Lilliput.
7. Gulliver finds a real boat on the island and has it fitted out, enabling him to leave
Blefuscu.
8. Gulliver gets to England after his boat is picked up by an English ship returning
to England from Japan.
9. Gulliver stays in England for two months before embarking on his second voyage.
10. Gulliver is enabled to go on his second voyage without leaving his family
unsupported financially because he inherits an estate from his uncle.
Part 2
Study Questions
1. How does Gulliver get to Brobdingnag?
2. Why is he abandoned by his shipmates there?
3. Who picks him up?

177
4. Where is he taken?
5. How do people of gigantic size appear to Gulliver?
6. How does Gulliver struggle with Brobdingnagian animals?
7. Who in Brobdingnag befriends him most closely?
8. What does the farmer plan to do with Gulliver?
9. Why does Gulliver dislike the farmer’s plans?
10. Where is Gulliver taken toward the end of Chapter Two?
Answers
1. Gulliver gets to Brobdingnag because his ship is blown off course.
2. Gulliver’s shipmates escape without him from Brobdingnag because they are
frightened by the giants there.
3. The farmer’s servant literally picks up Gulliver.
4. The farmer’s servant takes Gulliver to the farmer.
5. To Gulliver, people of gigantic size appear ugly, since their bodily flaws are
immensely magnified.

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6. Gulliver refuses to be frightened by the farmer’s cat and fights a bloody battle
with Brobdingnagian rats.
7. The farmer’s daughter, known to Gulliver as Glumdalclitch, or “little nurse,” is

the Brobdingnagian who befriends Gulliver most closely.
8. The farmer plans to publicly exhibit Gulliver for money.
9. Gulliver feels insulted by the idea of being exhibited as a curiosity.
10. Toward the end of Chapter Two, the farmer takes Gulliver in a box to the capital
city of Brobdingnag.
Study Questions
1. To whom does the farmer sell Gulliver?
2. What does the King of Brobdingnag discuss with Gulliver?
3. What do the Brobdingnagian philosophers think Gulliver is?
4. What does the King of Brobdingnag think of England?
5. How does Gulliver react to the King’s comments on England?
6. Who is Gulliver’s enemy at the court of Brobdingnag?
7. How large is the palace of Brobdingnag, according to Gulliver?

179
8. How is Gulliver transported around the kingdom?
9. What is the most hateful sight in Brobdingnag, according to Gulliver?
10. What insects bother Gulliver in Brobdingnag?
Answers
1. The farmer sells Gulliver to the Queen of Brobdingnag.
2. The King of Brobdingnag discusses the customs and institutions of England with
Gulliver.
3. The Brobdingnagian philosophers think Gulliver is a sport of nature.
4. The King of Brobdingnag thinks that the small size of the English shows how
contemptible human pretensions are, since they have titles of honor political
parties, and the like.
5. Gulliver reacts at first with resentment at the King’s attitude toward England,
but then realizes that he himself would seem ridiculous to someone so many times
larger than he was.
6. Gulliver’s enemy at the court of Brobdingnag is the Dwarf, who resents no longer
being the smallest person at court.
7. According to Gulliver, the palace of Brobdingnag is a heap of buildings seven

miles around.

180
8. Gulliver is transported around the kingdom in a box (actually there were two
boxes of different sizes).
9. The most hateful sight in Brobdingnag, according to Gulliver, was that of gigantic
lice on peoples’ bodies.
10. Gulliver is bothered in Brobdingnag by gigantic flies.
Study Questions
1. What do the Maids of Honor do in front of Gulliver and why?
2. How does their action affect him?
3. How does Gulliver escape from a monkey?
4. What is the King’s reaction to Gulliver’s escape?
5. How does Gulliver react to the King’s reaction?
6. What does Gulliver do after watching the King of Brobdingnag shave?
7. How does Gulliver try to perform musically in Brobdingnag?
8. What does the King of Brobdingnag think of Gulliver’s description of England?
9. Why does he hold this attitude?

181
10. What is the King’s attitude to religious freedom?
Answers
1. The Maids of Honor undress before Gulliver, not being ashamed any more than if
he were a small animal.
2. Gulliver finds the magnified physical imperfections of the Maids disgusting.
3. Men with ladders are sent to the roof of a building to rescue Gulliver from the
monkey.
4. The King thinks Gulliver’s narrow escape from death at the hands of the monkey
is amusing.
5. Gulliver feels, when the King is amused at Gulliver’s account of his narrow
escape, like an awkward social climber.
6. After watching the King shave, Gulliver uses some bristles of the King’s hair and
some wood splinters and makes a comb.
7. Gulliver tries to play a sixty-foot-long spinet (piano-like instrument).
8. The King of Brobdingnag, after hearing Gulliver’s description of England, thinks,

despite Gulliver’s patriotism, that the English are the “most pernicious race of
odious little vermin that Nature ever suffered (allowed) to crawl upon the surface of
the earth.”
9. The King holds a very negative opinion of the English because of their political
and moral corruption.

182
10. The King thinks that people should hold harmful religious views in private only,
not in public.
Study Questions
1. Why does Gulliver tell the King of Brobdingnag about gunpowder?
2. What is the King’s reaction to what Gulliver tells him about gunpowder and
firearms?
3. What does Gulliver think of the King of Brobdingnag’s ideas about government?
4. What are the Brobdingnagian books like according to Gulliver?
5. What is the Brobdingnagian army like according to him?
6. Why do they have an army, since there are no external enemies?
7. Why is Gulliver unhappy at the beginning of Chapter Eight?
8. Where is Gulliver when he is about to leave Brobdingnag?
9. How does he leave Brobdingnag?
10. How does he return to England?
Answers

183
1. Gulliver is trying to help the King of Brobdingnag to defend his kingdom by

telling him about gunpowder and firearms.
2. The King is shocked that brutally destructive weapons such as firearms exist.
3. Gulliver thinks that the King of Brobdingnag’s idealistic ideas about government
are narrow, meaning naive.
4. Brobdingnagian books, according to Gulliver, are gigantic, direct, practical and

not theoretical.
5. Gulliver tells the reader that the Brobdingnagian army is a militia, in which the
commanders are local landowners.
6. The Brobdingnagians have an army, despite the lack of external enemies, to

prevent civil strife.
7. At the beginning of Chapter Eight, Gulliver is unhappy because he is afraid that

he will spend the rest of his life being treated like a poor animal by the
Brobdingnagians.
8. When he is about to leave Brobdingnag, Gulliver is at the seashore.
9. Gulliver is picked up in his box by an eagle and dropped in the sea.
10. Gulliver is picked up by an English ship in which he is taken back to England.
Part 3

184
Study Questions
1. How does Gulliver get to Laputa?
2. How does Laputa differ from a normal country?
3. How do the people differ from those in most countries?
4. What unusual kind of servants do the better-off Laputans have?
5. What is unusual about Laputan food and clothing?
6. What does the King of Laputa ask Gulliver about England?
7. What makes the island fly?
8. How do the Laputans put down rebellions?
9. What have Laputan astronomers discovered?
10. How were rebels successful in one case against Laputa?
Answers
1. Gulliver gets to Laputa after being cast adrift on a small boat by pirates who
have captured his ship.
2. Laputa is a flying or floating island, moving above the ground.

185
3. The Laputans are almost totally absorbed in abstract spec¬ula¬tion, to the

neglect of practical activities.
4. The better-off Laputans have servants called “flappers.” Their servants gently hit
them with balloon-like objects filled with dried peas or pebbles so they will not be
totally distracted in thought from the outside world.
5. Laputan food is shaped like geometrical figures or musical instruments and their
clothing is similarly decorated. Their clothing is also decorated with astronomical
figures. Clothing is made and fitted using navigational instruments and
mathematical calculations, and it is ill-fitting.
6. The King of Laputa asks Gulliver about the state of mathematics in England; he
is interested in nothing else about England.
7. A magnetic rock in a cave in the center of the island of Laputa makes it fly.
8. The Laputans put down rebellions by flying over the rebellious area, blocking out
sunlight, and if necessary throwing down rocks.
9. Laputan astronomers have discovered two additional satellites of Mars.
10. Rebels against Laputa were able to get favorable terms by putting magnetic
towers at the four corners of their city, defeating Laputan measures against them.
Study Questions
1. How does Gulliver leave the Floating Island?
2. How did the Academy of Lagado originate?

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3. What are the consequences of establishing the Academy?
4. What, generally, does the Academy of Lagado do?
5. What is the first scholar Gulliver sees at the Academy of Lagado trying to do?
6. What is the architect Gulliver sees at the Academy trying to do?
7. What is the first physician Gulliver sees at the Academy attempting?
8. What is the first activity Gulliver sees in the more theoretically oriented part of
the Academy?
9. What are the political professors doing to cure politicians?
10. What does Gulliver propose to the Academy of Lagado?
Answers
1. Gulliver leaves the Floating Island by getting a court official, related to the King,
to intervene.
2. The Academy of Lagado originated when some people from the continent of
Balnibarbi spent some months on the Floating Island, learning a little mathematics
but filling themselves with “volatile spirits,” meaning impractical, theoretical
orientation (not liquor).
3. The consequence of the Academy is poverty, caused by the neglect of practical

work in favor of visionary, impracticable, schemes.

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4. The Academy of Lagado comes up with a variety of visionary, impracticable

schemes that have not yet been perfected (and presumably never will be).
5. The first scholar Gulliver sees at the Academy of Lagado has been working for
eight years on a project for extracting sunbeams from cucumbers.
6. The architect Gulliver first sees at the Academy is trying to build houses from the
top down.
7. The first physician Gulliver sees at the Academy is trying to cure patients with a
bellows.
8. The first activity Gulliver sees in the more theoretically oriented part of the
Academy is an attempt to create new writings by putting all the words of the
language on pieces of wood, linked by wires, on an enormous frame and rearranging
them mechanically.
9. The politicians are trying to cure professors with medicines and violent attacks,
or through brain transplants.
10. Gulliver proposes to the Academy of Lagado a scheme to accuse people of plots
against the state by misinterpreting their letters as secret codes.
Study Questions
1. Why does Gulliver visit Glubbdubdrib?
2. What kind of place is it?

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3. Who are the Governor’s servants in Glubbdubdrib?
4. What is Gulliver allowed to do in Glubbdubdrib?
5. Who are some of the famous people Gulliver sees in Glubbdubdrib?
6. What does Gulliver learn from the philosophers there?
7. What does Gulliver learn about kings and rulers there?
8. Who are the sympathetic figures in Glubbdubdrib?
9. What does Gulliver have to do in the Court of Luggnag?
10. How are people sometimes punished there?
Answers
1. Gulliver visits Glubbdubdrib because he is delayed on the way to Luggnag.
2. Glubbdubdrib is a country of magicians.
3. The Governor’s servants are ghosts.
4. Gulliver is allowed to call up the ghosts of whomever he pleases and ask them
questions.
5. In Glubbdubdrib, Gulliver sees the ghosts of many famous people, including

Homer, Aristotle, and Roman Emperors.

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6. Gulliver learns from the philosophers at Glubbdubdrib (or rather from their
ghosts) that commentators have misinter¬pret¬ed their writings.
7. Gulliver learns that kings and rulers are corrupt, and were usually of humble
origin a few generations back.
8. The sympathetic figures among the ghosts in Glubbdubdrib are the destroyers of
tyrants and usurpers, the restorers of liberty to their people, and the old, honest,
sincere English yeomen (small farmers).
9. In the Court of Luggnag, Gulliver has to lick the dust before the King’s footstool.
10. In Luggnag, people are sometimes punished by having the dust they lick
poisoned.
Study Questions
1. Who are the Struldbruggs?
2. What misconception does Gulliver have about them?
3. Why does Gulliver, under a misconception, think of the Struldbruggs?
4. What are the Struldbruggs really like?
5. What is the attitude of other people toward them?
6. What is one of the reasons for this attitude?

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7. How does Gulliver get to Japan?
8. To whom is Gulliver taken in Japan?
9. What does Gulliver ask not to have to do?
10. How does Gulliver get back to England?
Answers
1. The Struldbruggs are people in Luggnag who have eternal life but not eternal
youth.
2. Gulliver does not realize that the Struldbruggs lack eternal youth.
3. Gulliver thinks that the Struldbruggs are able to use their wisdom and
experience to enlighten younger generations.
4. The Struldbruggs, lacking eternal youth, are unable to do much or remember

anything.
5. Other people hate and despise the Struldbruggs.
6. The Struldbruggs are hated and despised partly because they have to be
supported at public expense.
7. Gulliver goes to Japan by sea after receiving a letter of recommendation from the
King of Luggnag to the Emperor of Japan.

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8. In Japan, Gulliver is taken to the Emperor.
9. In Japan, Gulliver asks not to have to trample on the crucifix. The Dutch traders,
the only Europeans normally allowed in Japan, are required to do so.
10. Gulliver goes by sea to the Netherlands, on a Dutch vessel sailing from Japan.
Then he sails from Amsterdam to England.
Part 4
Study Questions
1. In what capacity does Gulliver go on his fourth voyage?
2. How does he get to the land of the Houyhnhms?
3. Who does he first meet there?
4. What are the Yahoos?
5. What are the Houyhnhms?
6. What amazes Gulliver in this country?
7. What do the Houyhnhms think of Gulliver at first?

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8. How do they treat him?
9. What does Gulliver do about food in the land of the Houyhnhms?
10. What is the attitude of the Yahoos to Gulliver in these chapters?
Answers
1. On his fourth voyage, Gulliver is the captain of a ship.
2. Gulliver’s crew mutinies and puts him ashore at the first land they reach.
3. At first, Gulliver meets disgusting, repulsive animals.
4. The Yahoos are extremely degraded, animal-like human beings. They are the
first forms of animal life Gulliver sees in the land of the Houyhnhms. Some of them
serve the Houyhnhms.
5. The Houyhnhms are intelligent, rational, horses, and they are the most advanced
form of life in their country.
6. Gulliver is amazed that horses are able to communicate in a language that

Gulliver can learn. They live in buildings, and are generally intelligent.
7. The Houyhnhms at first think Gulliver is not exactly the same form of life as the
Yahoos, because of his clothing.
8. The Houyhnhms treat Gulliver well and hospitably.

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9. Gulliver is unable to eat the oats the Houyhnhms eat. Finding the Yahoos’ food
disgusting, he drinks milk and makes cakes of oats.
10. The Yahoos attack Gulliver; he has to be rescued by two Houyhnhms.
Study Questions
1. What is the significance of the phrase “the thing which is not” in these chapters?
2. What do the Houyhnhms discover about Gulliver’s physical appearance?
3. What are they unable to understand about a country where horses serve
humans?
4. What political concepts are the Houyhnhms unable to understand?
5. How does Gulliver characterize religious disputes in speaking to the Houyhnhms?
6. How does he characterize soldiers?
7. How does he characterize lawyers?
8. How does he characterize judges?
9. Why, according to Gulliver, are learned lawyers not teachers?
10. What does the dapple-gray think when Gulliver explains weapons?

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Answers
1. “The thing which is not” is the way Gulliver characterizes a lie or falsehood, a
concept unknown to the Houyhnhms.
2. When Gulliver is accidentally seen naked, the Houyhnhms discover that he

differs in few major respects from a Yahoo. They had previously been misled by his
clothes.
3. They are unable to understand why horses, being larger and stronger, can be
compelled to serve humans.
4. The Houyhnhms are unable to understand the concepts of power, war, law,
government, or punishment.
5. Gulliver, in speaking to the Houyhnhms, characterizes religious disputes as

trivial.
6. Gulliver characterizes soldiers as people who are highly esteemed for their ability
to kill people.
7. Gulliver characterizes lawyers as men whose profession is to try to prove that

black is white and vice versa.
8. Gulliver characterizes judges as being subject to bribes and never deciding cases
according to the merits.
9. According to Gulliver, lawyers are totally ignorant outside their own field.
10. When Gulliver explains weapons, the dapple-gray says that humans in
Gulliver’s country possess not reason, but some quality to increase their vice.

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Study Questions
1. How does Gulliver characterize doctors in speaking to the dapple-gray?
2. How does he characterize great ministers of state?
3. How does he characterize noblemen?
4. How does Gulliver characterize his own explanations of society in his own
country in these chapters?
5. What is the main defect of humans as described by Gulliver, according to the

dapple-gray?
6. Why do the Yahoos hate one another?
7. Why are they the most unteachable of all animals?
8. What is the main belief of the Houyhnhms?
9. How is their family life organized?
10. How are they governed?
Answers
1. Gulliver characterizes doctors as needed because of the diseases resulting from
the complexity and artificiality of human civilization; they cause death more often
than they prevent it.

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2. According to Gulliver, great ministers of state are totally exempt from any
human emotion except for a violent desire for wealth, power, and titles.
3. Gulliver says that noblemen are bred from childhood in idleness and luxury and
thus have weak, deformed, bodies.
4. Gulliver claims to have extenuated human faults as much as he could while

addressing the Houyhnhms.
5. The dapple-gray says that the main defect of human beings as described by
Gulliver is their lack of reason. As a result, they lack virtue. Reason is enough to
govern a rational creature.
6. The Yahoos hate one another because of their ugliness; they are unable to see
their own ugliness but are able to see that of other Yahoos.
7. The Yahoos, according to Gulliver, are the most unteachable of all animals due to
a perverse disposition. They are cunning, malicious, treacherous, and vengeful.
8. The main belief of the Houyhnhms is cultivating reason and being wholly
governed by it.
9. The family life of the Houyhnhms is organized according to reason, with mating
and childbirth planned entirely according to reason. Children are brought up
strictly.
10. The Houyhnhms are governed by a council meeting every four years.
Study Questions
1. What is the question debated at the grand assembly of the Houyhnhms?

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2. What is the proposal made by the dapple-gray at the assembly?
3. What is the Houyhnhms’ attitude to death?
4. What does the assembly of the Houyhnhms decide about Gulliver?
5. What is the reason for this decision?
6. What is Gulliver’s initial reaction?
7. Why does Gulliver leave the country of the Houyhnhms?
8. What are the circumstances of his departure?
9. What does he do immediately before his departure?
10. Where does he go at first?
Answers
1. At the grand assembly of the Houyhnhms, the question debated is whether to
exterminate the Yahoos.
2. The dapple-gray proposes gradual elimination of the Yahoos through castration.
3. The Houyhnhms are neither glad nor sorry when one of them dies. They do not
allow a death to distract them from other business for more than a few hours.

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4. The assembly of the Houyhnhms decides to either treat Gulliver like other
Yahoos or expel him from their land. They are afraid that he might, if treated like
other Yahoos, organize them to steal the Houyhnhms’ cattle, so they decide on
expulsion.
5. The Houyhnhms think that is contrary to reason to treat a Yahoo almost like a
Houyhnhm.
6. Gulliver’s initial reaction is to faint.
7. Gulliver leaves the country of the Houyhnhms because he has been expelled, the
first time this happens in the book.
8. Gulliver is given two months to make a boat, with the help of the dapple-gray’s
servants.
9. Immediately before his departure, Gulliver kisses the dapple-gray’s hoof.
10. Gulliver’s first destination is an island he had seen with his pocket-telescope.
Study Questions
1. What is the last thing a Houyhnhm says to Gulliver when he departs?
2. What does Gulliver plan to do after leaving the land of the Houyhnhms?
3. Who are the first human beings Gulliver meets after leaving the country of the
Houyhnhms?
4. Who are the next human beings Gulliver meets?

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5. How does Gulliver react to their offer to take him back to Europe?
6. How does Captain Mendez treat Gulliver?
7. What is Gulliver’s reaction to his rescue?
8. What happens to Gulliver when he returns to his family?
9. What does Gulliver insist in Chapter 12?
10. What does Gulliver say about colonization?
Answers
1. The sorrel nag says when Gulliver is leaving, “Take care of yourself, gentle
Yahoo.”
2. Gulliver plans to spend the rest of his life contemplating the virtues of the
Houyhnhms alone on an island.
3. The first human beings Gulliver meets after leaving the country of the
Houyhnhms are savages who wound him with an arrow.
4. The second group of human beings Gulliver meets are Portuguese sailors, who
say that their captain will take him back to Europe for free.
5. Gulliver utterly opposes the idea of returning to Europe; he has to be tied up and
taken by force to the ship.

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6. Captain Mendez treats Gulliver with great kindness and generosity.
7. Gulliver tries to swim away from the ship and has to be chained in his cabin.
8. Gulliver is embraced and kissed by his wife, but faints in disgust.
9. Gulliver insists on his truthfulness and impartiality.
10. Gulliver opposes colonization as pointless, dangerous and also inhumane, at

least as practiced by foreigners.

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American Literature
Walt Whitman
(i) What is uniquely American about Whitman's poetry?
Ans. Whitman wrote about America, its people, and its landscape in expansive free-verse form.
He established a uniquely American voice in poetry, entirely separate from the Anglophile-
inspired reverence for English poetic styles and forms. Whitman's open-armed, free-verse
celebrations of America's vastness of resources, opportunities, people, and possibilities, is
distinctly American verse.
(ii) What, in Whitman's view, is the function of poetry?
Ans. Whitman, like Poe and Coleridge, is mystic and transcendental in his theory of poetry.
Unlike them, he is an arch-rebel in poetic practice. Under the influence of the Romantic
movement in literature and art, Whitman held the theory that the chief function of the poet was
to express his own personality in his verse. Whitman often casts himself as the main character
in his poems.
(iii) Describe Whitman's conception of the soul and the body.
Ans. The soul and the body are inextricably linked for Whitman. While the soul is the ultimate
repository of the self, and the connection between souls is the highest order of relating, the body
is the vessel that allows the soul to experience the world. Therefore the body is just as
important.
(iv) What kinds of structures does Whitman use in his poetry?
Ans. Two of the most important structures in Whitman's poetry are the list and the anecdote. He
avoids structures like rhyme because he wants to show that his is a truly American poetry, one
that is fresh and new, and not indebted to previous poets from other countries.
(v) What kind of vocabulary does Whitman use in his poetry?
Ans. Whitman's vocabulary borrows from these disciplines; anatomy, astronomy, carpentry and
construction, military and war terms, nautical terms and terms related to the sea, business and
professions, flora and fauna of America.
(vi) What are major themes in Whitman's poetry?
Ans. Democracy as a way of life, the cycle of growth and death, the beauty of the individual,
democratic nature of poetry, the body and soul, the natural world, war, and eroticism are the
major themes of Whitman's poetry.
(vii) What do plants symbolize in Whitman's poetry?
Ans. Throughout Whitman's poetry, plant life symbolize both growth and multiplicity. Rapid,
regular plant growth also stands in for the rapid, regular expansion of the population of the
United States.
(viii) What is the theme of 'There was a Child Went Forth'?
Ans. This poem expresses the poet's identification of his consciousness with all objects and
forms, and the list of things which he himself identifies with is large and comprehensive and is a
good example of Whitman's catalogs. The continual process of becoming is at the heart of the
poem.
(ix) What is the theme of 'I Saw in Louisiana a Live-Oak Growing'?
Ans. Even though we may have people in our lives, they can always be taken away. Physical
love is as elementary as the oak tree itself, but its luxuriant growth is an organic metaphor for

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the development of manly love in the region of the spirit.

(x) What are the major themes of 'One's-Self I Sing'?
Ans. The poem delves into the themes of the self, the all-encompassing "I", sexuality,
democracy, the human body, and what it means to live in the modern world.
(xi) What is the theme of 'Poets to Come'?
Ans. Whitman's consciousness of the inadequacy of language to express the full extent of his
thought is revealed in this poem. His expectation that the future poets will interpret his work for
posterity clearly shows that he views the poet as a seer and a builder of the bridge spanning
time.
(xii) What is the theme of 'O Captain! My Captain!'?
Ans. The primary theme of the poem is masculine love; the speaker loves his captain as his
own father. Other themes are admiration, patriotism and suffering.
(xiii) What is the theme of 'To a Stranger'?
Ans. The speaker uses this poem as a silent address to a stranger passing by him on the street.
The relationship between body and soul is the major theme of the poem. Whitman also invokes
the theme of democratic self by leaving the stranger's gender indeterminate.
(xiv) What is the theme of 'Shut Not Your Doors'?
Ans. In this poem, Whitman is by far identifying himself as a writer of writers. He puts himself on
a soap box and pats himself on the back. This poem is a good way to express a writer's feelings
about his own writings.
(xv) What is the theme of 'The Carols'?
Ans. In this poem the speaker describes various "carols" that arise from different figures in the
American working class as people go about their work. The theme of the poem is individuality,
productivity and happiness in one's station in life. The poem also exemplifies the theme of
musicality in Whitman's poetry.
John Ashbery
(i) What are the basic themes in the poetry of John Ashbery?
Ans. John Ashbery's poetry is mainly about the play and process of the mind interacting with the
world. He is also concerned with the process of artistic creation and appreciation. His themes
are numerous since the mind perceiving subjects is numerous. Other themes include, love, loss,
alienation, the everyday, painting, art, emotions, home eroticism, and emotions etc.
(ii) What are the major elements of modernity in John Ashbery's Poetry?
Ans. John Ashbery is chiefly known for the artistic perfection of his poetry. Stream of
consciousness, impressionism, expressionism, subjectivity, symbolism, simple language and
philosophical touch are the major elements of modernity in John Ashbery's poetry.
(iii) What is the symbolic significance of the title 'Melodic Trains'?
Ans. The title "Melodic Trains" suggests that it is about a train journey. It sets a tone of harmony
and concord. The trains are melodic not because the round of the wheels is so rhythmic, but
because Ashbery sees all passengers as his brothers. There is also the rhythm of the thought
process.
(iv) What is the main theme of 'Melodic Trains'?
Ans. The main theme of "Melodic Trains" by John Ashbery is that life is a perpetual journey into

203
the unconscious regions of human mind, which brings up a new perspective each time an
activity is stirred.
(v) What are the symbolic elements in 'Melodic Trains'?
Ans. Train, enameled fingernails of the little girl, toy wristwatch of the little girl, stations,
passengers at stations, taxi, and tower of Pisa are the major symbolic elements in "Melodic
Trains".
(vi) How is journey of train similar to journey of mind? (Melodic Trains)
Ans. The journey in real train is paralleled by a symbolic train of thoughts and melodies, poetic
ideas running through the mind. Life is a perpetual journey into the unconscious regions of
human mind, which brings up a new station each time an activity is stirred.
(vii) What do the stations of train symbolize in 'Melodic Trains'?
Ans. Stations symbolize a temporary stopover. They are a midpoint between past and future of
our lives. They give us a sense of transition, of being between worlds, between experiences.
The human gathering at stations is like chorus singing about various stages of the journey of
life.
(viii) What is the main theme of the poem 'The Painter'?
Ans. The main theme of the poem "The Painter" by John Ashbery is that innovator, modern and
creative artists are crucified by the traditional and conventional people.
(ix) How does Ashbery define art in 'The Painter'?
Ans. Ashbery's conception of art in "The Painter" is like that of a child's prayer which is a direct
relationship between the artist and the art like that of a prayee to God. He says that objective
representation of reality must be the basis of art. Soul, spirit, vitality of life, and the essence of
reality should be the features of art.
(x) What is Ashbery's wish in 'The Painter'?
Ans. Ashbery was himself a painter. In this poem, he wishes to paint an abstract idea. He wants
artistic perfection of his painting. Canvas is a symbol of life, he wants to paint colours of truth on
it, which is beyond his reach.
(xi) What are the major symbols in 'The Painter'?
Ans. "The Painter" is a highly symbolic poem. It is packed with symbols that it seems like an
allegory. The major symbols are; the sea, the buildings, the painter and canvas.
(xii) What does the sea symbolize in 'The Painter'?
Ans. The sea in "The Painter" is a symbol of creativity and the unexplored depths of human
consciousness. It also resents the vitality and essence or life, with has long been ignored.
(xiii) Why does the poet use the image of Tower of Pisa in 'Melodic Trains'?
Ans. The poet uses the image of Tower of Pisa to reflect the modern man's psychological
complexities.
(xiv) Trace political and religious allegory in 'The Painter'?
Ans. The pathetic state of the painter lends political and religious interpretations of the poem.
The line "Try using the brush for a means to an end" shows the selfishness of the political gains.
The word 'crucify' has religious connotation so the poem becomes a religious allegory too.
(xv) Why does the painter not paint anything on the canvas?
Ans. The poem presents the situation of an artist who wants to paint the sea. He wants that
"nature, not art, might usurp the canvas". The artist is unable to present reality and so "there
was never any paint on the canvas".

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Mourning Becomes Electra

(i) What is trilogy?
Ans. Trilogy is a group of three literary works that together compose a larger narrative. Early types
of trilogy resulted from the common practice of Athenian playwrights, who would submit tragedies
as groups of three plays for performance in the Dionysia. Examples include the Oresteia of
Aeschylus and Sophocles' trilogy of Oedipus Rex, Antigone, and Oedipus at Colona.
(ii) In what ways does mourning become Electra?
Ans. "Mourning" means the expression of sorrow for someone's death. The Mannon family is
marred with deaths. Whereas "Electra" is the name of the sister of Orestes in Aeschylus's tragedy
"The Oresteia", and that the play was all about the destruction of a particular family. So "Electra"
refers to Lavinia in the play who is left alone after the destruction of her family.
(iii) What is the historical context of 'Mourning Becomes Electra'?
Ans. Born in 1888, Eugene O'Neill's life spanned some of the most important events of
contemporary history. The issues related to democracy and materialism figure prominently in his
plays. "Mourning Becomes Electra" explore the problems confronting American society,
particularly rampant materialism, loss of individuality, lack of spiritual values, incest, sin and guilt.
(iv) Why has O'Neil used myth and legend as symbols in his play?
Ans. O'Neil has used myth and legend as symbols in his play "Mourning Becomes Electra" to
give a broad and universal significance to his theme. He has used the Electra legend to achieve
an approximation to the Greek sense of fate, such as would appeal to modern audiences.
(v) How does O'Neil symbolize hair and eyes in 'Mourning Becomes Electra'?
Ans. If the mask like faces in "Mourning Becomes Electra" establish the puritan male tradition, the
woman's hair and eyes symbolize the opposing 'pagan' one. The richness of the hair of Christine
and Lavinia points to primitive and vigorous sensuality. The eyes of the women link them with the
islands.
(vi) What is the significance of the 'Blessed Islands'?
Ans. O'Neill has interwoven the "Blessed Islands" in "Mourning Becomes Electra" -- influenced
by Melville's Typee -- as the motif of an unattainable pipe-dream. The Blessed Islands show the
desire for love, harmony, and sexual freedom of all the protagonists in the play. They are the
counterpart of puritanism and civilization. However, these islands do not really offer an escape.
(vii) What is the meaning of theme song 'Shenandoah'?
Ans. 'Shenandoah' is a traditional American folk song. It is the theme song in the play "Mourning
Becomes Electra". It occurs six times in the trilogy. The chanty may be regarded as an equivalent
of the choral songs in Greek tragedy. Some believe that the song refers to the river of the same
name while others suggest that it is of Native American origin, for it tells the tale of Sally, the
daughter of the Indian Chief Shenandoah.
(viii) Who are the haunted in 'Mourning Becomes Electra'?
Ans. Almost all the characters are the haunted. They are emotionally death, the house is a tomb.
Death seems to be haunting everybody in the Mannon family, and it catches up to all of them one
way or another. Ezra Mannon and Adam Brant are murdered. Christine and Orin commit suicide.
Lavinia decides to punish herself by living alone.

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(ix) Why are the Mannons driven to their self destructive behaviour?
Ans. The Mannons in "Mourning Becomes Electra" are driven to their self-destructive behaviour
by inner needs, forbidden love, and compulsions they can neither understand nor control.
(x) Why do every Mannon in 'Mourning Becomes Electra' seek escape from the real world?
Ans. All Mannons in "Mourning Becomes Electra" seek refuge and escape from the harsh realities
of the real world by dreaming of starting a new life on a South Pacific Island. They want to escape
from their inner needs, forbidden love, and compulsions they can neither understand nor control.
(xi) Why does Lavinia say, 'I hate love!'?

Ans. Lavinia is a queer girl who was not given any attention by her mother during her childhood.
Now she is turned indifferent to the social, ethical and moral behaviour of the human mind. When
Peter asks her if Orin really loves his sister Hazel, she simply replies: "I hate love!" Lavinia lives
up to this statement throughout the play.
(xii) What kind of relationship does Lavinia have with her mother?
Ans. The relationship between Lavinia and her mother Christine is a complete lack of
understanding. Between the mother and daughter, there is a competition for the love of Christine's
son/Lavinia's brother, Orin. Lavinia sees Christine's new love as a betrayed of her mother's
relationship with her father. She also harbors a deep desire for revenge upon her mother for killing
her father.
(xiii) Why does Lavinia hate her mother?
Ans. Lavinia hates her mother for many reasons. Firstly, she was not given any attention by her
mother during her childhood. Secondly, she is extremely possessive for her father. Thirdly, she
hates her for her adulterous acts in New York with Adam. Above all, she abhors her mother
because she has poisoned her father.
(xiv) Why does Lavinia hate Adam?
Ans. Lavinia is a puritan moralist in her attitude towards Christine and Adam. She hates Adam on
two counts. Firstly, she considers that he is the son of a low nurse. Secondly, she hates him for
his adulterous acts in New York with her mother, Christine.
(xv) Why is Lavinia instead of committing suicide prepared to meet her punishment by
living a solitary life?
Ans. Convinced that the Mannon blood is tainted with evil, Lavinia resolves to spend the rest of
her days atoning for her guild in the Mannon house. Since there is no one left to punish her, she
decides to punish herself by living alone in the old house with the ghosts of her ancestors.
The Crucible
(i) What is a crucible?

Ans. A crucible is a container that can withstand very high temperatures and is used for metal,
glass, and pigment production as well as a number of modern laboratory processes. It's a little
container full of violent reactions. It is a good metaphor for the violent hysteria that the little
village of Salem contained during the witch trials.

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(ii) What is an overture? Why does Miller use on in 'The Crucible'?

Ans. An overture is a dramatic instrumental musical opening, and also a prelude. In "The
Crucible", the first Act is named "An Overture" because it is the beginning of a series of dramatic
events that will occur throughout the course of the play. It provides relevant and interesting
background information on the events that occurred during the Salem witch trials.
(iii) Why did Arthur Miller write "The Crucible"?
Ans. The McCarthy hearings, which sought to root out communists in the U.S. government
during the early 1950s inspired Arthur Miller to write "The Crucible". However, the most obvious
reason Arthur wrote "The Crucible" is because he had a story to tell. Without that, he would not
have been inspired to write.
(iv) Why does Miller open Act IV of 'The Crucible' with a scene of madness?
Ans. By opening Act IV with its chilling, yet pitiful scene of madness among the prisoners, as
seen especially in Tituba's ravings, Miller powerfully conveys the depth of the misery, suffering,
and insanity wrought by the witchcraft trails. This scene also creates a dark atmosphere and a
somber tone of the tragic final events that are about to unfold.
(v) Why was Abigail dismissed from her job at the Proctor's house?
Ans. Abigail was dismissed from her job at the Proctor's house when Elizabeth discovered her
affair with her husband John Proctor.
(vi) What does fire symbolize in 'The Crucible'?
Ans. The play's title is a reference to fire, in that a "crucible" is a vessel made to withstand
extremely high temperatures. The symbol of fire is a potent one for this play. It symbolizes wild
emotions, emotions suppressed, lust, sexual undertones, sexual desires, chaos, vengeance,
deceit and destruction.
(vii) Interpret 'Them that will not confess will hang'.
Ans. This line is from "The Crucible" spoken by Danforth when some people were about to be
hanged for witchcraft. People were asked to sign a crime list as a confession to save their lives.
John refused to confess to something he had not done. The statement is ironic because none of
them actually had committed witchcraft. It means the lairs would live and the honest would be
hanged.
(viii) How does Abigail thrives on the attention of all in the court and become the centre
of excitement?
Ans. Abigail thrives on the attention of all in the court and becomes the centre of excitement by
pretending witch hunting.
(ix) What does Abigail do when suspicion that she might be pretending falls on her?
Ans. When Abigail is suspected of pretending, she denies it and actually threatens Deputy
Governor Danforth, the man presiding over these proceedings. She says to him that he could be
the next accused by her, that he is not exempt from the Devil's power of hers. Moreover, Abigail
turns against Mary Warren, claiming that the girl has sent her spirit out.
(x) Why does Abigail accuse Proctor's wife?
Ans. Abigail accuses Proctor's wife of witchcraft, most likely because she is in love with John
Proctor. Accusing Elizabeth of witchcraft may get Elizabeth out of the picture and make room for
her. A second reason for accusing her of witchcraft includes protection. If John's own wife is
accused, he will be less inclined to condemn all the girls.
(xi) What are Abigail's feelings towards John Proctor?
Ans. Abigail is in love with John Proctor. When she worked for the Proctors, she and John had a
brief affair. She has brooded over her sexual encounter with Proctor for seven months. The
more she thinks about the affair, the more Abigail convinces herself that Proctor loves her but

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cannot express his love because of his wife, Elizabeth.

(xii) Why does John Proctor confess his act of adultery?
Ans. Proctor confesses his act of adultery with Abigail to defend his wife, Elizabeth; Abigail has
a motive for wanting to accuse Elizabeth of witchcraft. Moreover, he wants to discredit Abigail in
the eyes of the court.
(xiii) Why has Proctor refused to let Parris baptize his third child?
Ans. Proctor has serious issues with Parris. He thinks that Parris is overly concerned with
money; he preaches about getting golden candlesticks, and wants the mortgage to the
meetinghouse. He does not really think that Parris is a good representative of God so he
refuses to let Parris baptize his third child.
(xiv) How has Proctor earned his death?
Ans. "The Crucible" ends with John Proctor marching off to a martyr's death. By refusing to lie
and confess to witchcraft, he sacrifices his life in the name of truth. In fact, Proctor has in some
way regained his goodness. Thus he has earned his death by asserting his individuality against
the authority of the court.
(xv) Why is Cheever both astonished and afraid when he finds the puppet with the needle
in it?
Ans. Cheever has not once doubted the Proctors. He did not believe Abigail's story that
Elizabeth's spirit stabbed her in the stomach. When he finds the poppet, he is astonished
because it is evidence enough for him to believe that Abigail was telling the truth and Elizabeth
is a witch. He is afraid both by the thought of what will happen to her and the thought of how
rampant the witchcraft in his own town.
What is a crucible?
A crucible is a container used to melt metals on very high temperature. A crucible
also means severe test or trial.
Why did Arthur Miller write “The Crucible”?
Arthur Miller wrote “The Crucible” because he has a story and through this story he
satire on the event in 1950s in which the communist were killed .
Why was Abigail dismissed from her job at the Proctor’s house?
Abigail was dismissed from her job at the Proctor’s house when Elizabeth Proctor
knows her affair with her husband John Proctor.

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How does Abigail thrives on the attention of all in the court and become the centre
of excitement?
Abigail thrives on the attention of all in the court and becomes the centre of
excitement by pretending witch hunting.
Why does Abigail accuse Proctor’s wife?

Abigail accuses Proctor’s wife of witchcraft, because Elizabeth dismissed her from
job and secondly she want to remove her that she herself can marry to John Proctor .
What are Abigail’s feelings towards John Proctor?

Abigail is in love with John Proctor. She had sexual relations with him for seven
months. When she dismissed from job and meets him at Parris house she
was advancing and thinking that Proctor love her but cannot express due to his
wife.
Why does John Proctor confess his act of adultery?

Proctor confesses his act of adultery with Abigail to defend his wife and to shows
the real character of Abigail in the court.
Why has Proctor refused to let Parris baptize his third child?
Proctor refused to let Parris baptize his third child because he thinks that Parris is
not true representative of God and has more concern with money .
How does Elizabeth deal with Abigail when she comes to know of illicit relations
between Proctor and her?
Elizabeth when know that Abigail has illicit relations with Proctor she dismiss her
from service.
Why does Mrs. Putnam believe there are witches in Salem?
Many of her babies have died and the only successful child (Ruth) was acting odd.
Why is Thomas Putnam bitter?

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His candidate for minister was rejected and he could not break his father's will. He
believed he was intellectually superior and was frustrated when he didn't get his
way.
Parris says, "Oh Abigail, what proper payment for my charity! Now I am undone!"
What does that mean?
Parris was having troubles before the story began and was trying to keep
everything together. His niece's flirting with witchcraft would give his enemies
more ammunition against him. He has taken her in and she has done something
which could cause his ruin.
What is Mary's argument to Abby?
She wants her to tell the truth about what happened in the woods. Mary suspects if
they lies continue, the punishment could be far worse than it would be now
(spanking and reprimanding).
Explain how the witch-hunt years were a time of "general revenge."

The Puritans were under such strict laws that when the witch hunts started, they didn't
repress their anger anymore and got revenge for whatever squabbles they had.
Study Questions
1. What do we learn in the opening narrative that is important to the events that
follow?
2. What happened in the woods the night before Act One -begins?
3. How did the events come to light, and what was the effect on Betty and
Ruth?
4. Why is the town so stirred up by these events?

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5. What is Reverend Parris’ first reaction to the crisis?
6. What reason does Ann Putnam have to be resentful?
7. What reason does Thomas Putnam have to be resentful?
8. Why do the girls argue about whether or not to tell the truth?
9. How does Abigail eventually get her way?
10. What is a crucible?
Answers
1. We learn that Parris thinks everyone is out to get him and that he has a need
to be in control. We also learn that the citizens of Salem mind each other’s
business and are unforgiving.
2. Several teenage girls of Salem were in the woods dancing, some of them
naked. Tituba was trying to contact the dead, and Abigail was trying to put a
curse on Elizabeth Proctor.
3. The girls were caught by Reverend Parris, and the shock caused Betty and
Ruth to fall ill.
4. The town is stirred up because the girls cannot be healed, and they suspect
witchcraft.
5. Parris’ first reaction is to save his own name and reputation.
6. Ann Putnam suspects someone has been killing her babies in childbirth.

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7. Thomas Putnam resents the fact that his candidate for minister of Salem was
not elected.
8. To admit the truth means severe punishment for dancing and conjuring; to be
found guilty of witchcraft means -hanging.
9. Abigail forces the others not to tell the truth through intimidation and threats.
10. A crucible is a container in which metals are burned at high temperatures to

burn off impurities; it is also defined as a severe test or trial.
Study Questions
1. Why was Abigail dismissed from her job at the Proctor’s house?
2. What does Abby tell Proctor about the events in the woods?
3. How have Proctor’s feelings toward Abby changed?
4. When does Betty cry out?
5. How is this cry interpreted?
6. How is Betty finally calmed?
7. How does Rebecca explain the events in the woods?
8. Why would anyone resent the Nurses?

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9. Why does Proctor dislike Parris?
10. Why does Parris dislike Proctor?
Answers
1. Abigail was dismissed from her job when Elizabeth discovered her affair with
John.
2. Abby tells Proctor that they were merely dancing and that there was no
witchcraft involved.
3. Proctor has put the affair behind him and no longer welcomes Abby’s
advances.
4. Betty cries out when she hears the name of the Lord sung downstairs.
5. The cry is interpreted as another sign of witchcraft. If Betty is possessed by a

demonic spirit, she cannot bear to hear the name of the Lord.
6. Rebecca Nurse seems to calm Betty merely by her presence.
7. Rebecca feels the events in the woods were merely expressions of adolescent
foolishness.
8. The Nurses have been involved in a land war with their neighbors and were
among those who kept Putnam’s candidate for minister out of office in Salem.
9. Proctor despises what he sees as Parris’ outrageous hypocrisy and greed.

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10. Parris resents Proctor for arguing against paying him more money.
Study Questions
1. Why is Hale invited to Salem from Boston?
2. Has Hale ever found a witch?
3. What is significant about the timing of Hale’s entrance?
4. What do we learn about Rebecca Nurse from Hale?
5. What does Giles mention to Hale about Proctor?
6. What does Giles mention about his wife?
7. What are Rebecca and John’s roles in the proceedings?
8. What does Abigail do when questioned?
9. How is Tituba treated when she finally concocts a conversation with the devil
and names a Salem woman as a witch?
10. What does Abby do when she sees this reaction?
Answers
1. Hale is a noted authority on witchcraft.

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2. Hale once thought he had found a witch, but thorough investigation

revealed that there was a natural explanation for the questionable behavior.
3. Hale enters immediately after the conversation that reveals the conflicts
among the residents of Salem.
4. We learn that Rebecca’s good reputation is widely known.
5. Giles tells Hale that Proctor does not believe in witches.
6. Giles tells Hale that his wife reads books and that when she is reading them,
he cannot pray.
7. Both Rebecca and John refuse to be involved in the witch-hunt.
8. Abigail pins the blame on Tituba.
9. Tituba is greatly encouraged and treated like a hero.
10. Abby seeks the same kind of attention and begins naming names herself.
Study Questions
1. What is the significance of John’s re-seasoning the soup?
2. What is the relationship between John and Elizabeth like?
3. What new position does Mary Warren now hold?

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4. Who is in charge of this court?
5. What action has the court taken?
6. What will happen if the accused do not confess?
7. How has Mary’s personality changed since her involvement in the court?
8. What issue does Elizabeth continue to hound her husband about?
9. What does Elizabeth’s lack of mercy and understanding foreshadow?
10. Why does John hesitate to go to the court and reveal Abigail’s fraud?
Answers
1. The unseasoned soup is a symbol of the Proctors’ flavorless marriage.
2. The relationship between John and Elizabeth is tense and strained.
3. Mary is now an official in the newly formed court.
4. The court consists of four judges sent from Boston.
5. The court has accused 14 Salemites of witchcraft.
6. If the accused do not confess, they will be hanged.
7. Mary used to be timid and shy, but is now openly defiant of her employer.

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8. Elizabeth cannot forgive John’s indiscretion with Abigail.
9. Elizabeth’s behavior towards John foreshadows the later actions of the court.
10. John hesitates because he does not like to be ordered by Elizabeth and
because he fears he will not be believed, since there are no other witnesses to
Abby’s confession.
Study Questions
1. What does Mary Warren give Elizabeth?
2. What is Elizabeth’s reaction to the gift?
3. How many people have now been arrested?
4. What will happen to those who do not confess?
5. Who has confessed?
6. What does this mean for the others?
7. What would spare Sarah Good from hanging?
8. What shocking news does Mary offer regarding Elizabeth?
9. What cause does Elizabeth immediately suspect?

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10. Now that Elizabeth is accused, does John go quickly to the court to clear her
name?
Answers
1. Mary gives Elizabeth a poppet, or doll, that she had sewn that day in court.
2. Elizabeth is surprised. A doll is an odd gift to give a grown woman.
3. A total of 39 people have now been arrested.
4. Those who do not confess will be hanged.
5. Sarah Good has confessed.
6. Now that one person has confessed, the charges against the others are more
believable.
7. Sarah is pregnant, and the court will spare her unborn child.
8. Mary reveals that Elizabeth has been accused of witchcraft.
9. Elizabeth suspects the accusation was an attempt by Abigail to eventually

marry John.
10. Even though Elizabeth has been accused, John hesitates to go to the court.
He agrees to go only after being coerced by his wife.

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Study Questions
1. Why does Hale appear at the Proctor house?
2. Why would John’s Christian character be in question?
3. What reason does John first give for not going to church regularly?
4. What reason does John finally admit to for his behavior?
5. Why is John’s not going to church significant to the play?
6. What does Hale request the Proctors do to show their faith?
7. Are the Proctors successful in fulfilling this request?
8. Why is this particular commandment significant?
9. What news briefly shakes Hale’s belief in the court system?
10. What is his ultimate conclusion about the system at the end of this scene?
Answers
1. Hale travels to the Proctor house to question them on their Christian
character.

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2. John’s faith is in question because he does not attend church regularly and
has not had his third son baptized.
3. John explains that Elizabeth has been sick and he has stayed home to care
for her.
4. John admits his animosity toward Reverend Parris.
5. It shows his failure to conform to the rules of the society and to participate in
the community.
6. The Proctors are asked to repeat the commandments.
7. John can name nine commandments but forgets the commandment against
adultery.
8. John’s adultery with Abigail makes this particular commandment significant.
9. Hale’s belief in the system is briefly shaken by the accusation of Rebecca

Nurse.
10. Hale still believes that the innocent will be pardoned and justice will prevail.
Study Questions
1. What orders do Cheever and Herrick have at the Proctor house?
2. What has happened to Abigail?

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3. Why is this related to the poppet?
4. Did Elizabeth keep poppets in her house?
5. What is found in the poppet?
6. How did the needle get there?
7. Do the authorities believe Mary’s admission?
8. What does John do with the warrant for Elizabeth’s arrest?
9. What does Proctor believe is motivating the court at this point?
10. What does Mary warn will happen if Proctor attempts to interfere with the
court?
Answers
1. Cheever and Herrick are to search the Proctor’s house for poppets and to
arrest Elizabeth.
2. Abigail’s belly has been pierced deeply with a long needle.
3. The poppet was found with a needle sticking out of its belly. It was commonly
believed that dolls were kept by witches and manipulated in order to torture
people.
4. Elizabeth never had poppets in the house until that day, when Mary gave her
one.

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5. A long needle is found in the poppet in the same place Abigail had been
stabbed.
6. Mary Warren admits that she may have left it there when she made it.
7. The authorities pay no attention to Mary’s admission.
8. John tears up the warrant for Elizabeth’s arrest.
9. Proctor believes the court is now motivated entirely by vengeance.
10. Mary tells Proctor that Abigail will accuse him of lechery if he attempts to
interfere.
Study Questions
1. What is the significance of lighting described in the stage directions?
2. Who is being charged as Act Three begins?
3. What possible motive does Giles Corey offer for the accusations against his
wife and others?
4. How are these charges received?
5. Why does Giles feel guilty?
6. What do Proctor and Mary Warren bring with them as -evidence?

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7. How does Judge Danforth measure his worth?
8. What does Parris do when Proctor attempts to make his case?
9. What is happening to Hale at this point?
10. How is Mary’s statement that the accusations are mere pretense received?
Answers
1. The shafts of light entering the room are symbolic of goodness.
2. Martha Corey is being charged as the act begins.
3. Giles Corey accuses Thomas Putnam of attempting to acquire more land.
4. Giles Corey is thrown out of the courtroom and threatened with arrest for
contempt.
5. Giles believes he has jeopardized his wife by mentioning that she reads books.
6. They bring a deposition signed by Mary that the trials are a fraud.
7. Judge Danforth measures his worth by the number of people he has jailed
and sentenced to hang.
8. Parris attempts to call his Christian character into question.

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9. Hale has started to believe that the truth is not being served.
10. The judges believe that the whole group is attempting to undermine the
authority of the court by making charges of fraud.
Study Questions
1. What news does Danforth give John Proctor about his wife?
2. Why did the court not believe this assertion at first?
3. What does Proctor tell Danforth about his doubts?
4. What offer is made to Proctor by Danforth?
5. What happens to the people who signed the deposition upholding the three
women?
6. What does Giles Corey charge in his deposition againstThomas Putnam?
7. How does Putnam answer, and who is believed?
8. What does Mary Warren’s deposition claim?
9. What does Hale suggest after the deposition is read?
10. Why does Danforth not allow Proctor to obtain a lawyer?

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Answers
1. Proctor is told that his wife claims she is pregnant.
2. The court first assumed that Elizabeth was lying about pregnancy to avoid
hanging.
3. Proctor tells Danforth that Elizabeth is incapable of telling a lie.
4. Danforth offers to Elizabeth one year to bear her child, hoping that this will
allow him to drop his charges against the court.
5. All 91 signers are ordered arrested for questioning.
6. Corey charges Putnam with attempting to kill his neighbors in order to buy
their land.
7. Putnam claims the accusation is a lie, and since the charge cannot be
proved, Putnam is believed.
8. Mary’s deposition claims she never dealt with Satan and that her friends are
lying.
9. Hale advises Proctor to return to the court with a lawyer to present such
serious evidence.
10. Danforth claims that the evidence against those accused is invisible and that
a lawyer would only call extraneous witnesses.
Study Questions

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1. What does Abigail do when confronted with Mary’s accusation of pretense?
2. What behavior of Abby’s does Proctor bring to the judges’ attention?
3. Why does he choose to reveal these things?
4. What is Reverend Parris’ reaction to these charges against his niece?
5. How is Mary asked to prove that the girls were lying?
6. How does Abigail respond to Mary’s assertions that the girls were all lying?
7. What does Proctor finally call Abigail?
8. Who is brought in to back up this accusation, and what does she do?
9. How does Mary finally respond to Abby’s behavior?
10. What happens to Proctor at the end of the act?
Answers
1. Abby denies the proceedings are mere pretense.
2. Abby has laughed at prayer and danced naked in the woods.
3. Proctor attempts to show flaws in Abby’s Christian character that might prove
that she is lying.

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4. Parris reacts to the charges against Abby as if they were personal insults
against himself.
5. Mary is asked to fake fainting to show how the girls were faking in the court.
6. Abigail turns against Mary, claiming that Mary has sent her spirit out to afflict
her.
7. In desperation, Proctor calls Abigail a whore, confessing his lechery.
8. Elizabeth is brought in to back up her husband’s testimony, and she lies.
9. Mary is terrified, and rather than risk being hanged as a witch, she once again
sides with the other girls and accuses Proctor of being a witch.
10. Proctor is arrested and jailed as a witch.
Study Questions
1. What are Tituba and Sarah Good discussing as the act opens?
2. How does Tituba describe the devil in Barbados?
3. What has happened that has made Parris so anxious?
4. What happened in Andover?
5. Why is Parris afraid to hang John Proctor and Rebecca Nurse the next
morning?

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6. Why is Parris more frightened to hang Proctor and Nurse than anyone else?
7. Why does Parris request a postponement of the hangings?
8. What does Hale request instead of postponement?
9. Why does Danforth refuse Hale’s request?
10. What has Hale been advising those condemned to do?
Answers
1. The two women are speaking of the devil coming to take them back to
Barbados.
2. Tituba says the devil is a “pleasureman” in Barbados, a joyful figure.
3. Abigail and Mercy Lewis have run off with all of the minister’s money.
4. A court examining witches in Andover was overturned and rejected by the

town.
5. Parris fears a rebellion in Salem similar to the one in Andover.
6. Proctor and Nurse are well respected in Salem and have far better
reputations than any of those previously put to death.
7. Parris hopes that more of those condemned can be brought to confess and
save their lives.

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8. Because none of the prisoners can be brought to confess, Hale requests a

pardon.
9. Danforth refuses to pardon anyone on the grounds that he will appear to be

wavering in his judgment and that it is not fair to the 12 who have already hung.
10. Hale advises the prisoners to lie and save their lives.
Study Questions
1. What does Hale plead with Elizabeth to do?
2. Why does Hale believe a lie would not be a sin in this case?
3. Why is Hale so adamant in his attempts to convince Elizabeth?
4. Have any of the other prisoners confessed?
5. What reason does John give for not confessing?
6. What further reason keeps John from confessing?
7. What has John decided to do before he sees Elizabeth?
8. What does Elizabeth advise him to do?
9. How has Elizabeth changed?

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10. What reason does John have for not telling the truth and going to his death?
Answers
1. Hale pleads with Elizabeth to convince John to lie.
2. Hale believes that no principle can justify the taking of a life.
3. Hale feels he will be responsible for John’s death.
4. Elizabeth tells John that a hundred or more people have confessed and gone
free.
5. John states that he does not want to give a lie to dogs.
6. To confess is to go along with the majority and give up his individual identity.
7. John has decided to confess when he meets with Elizabeth.
8. Elizabeth will not advise him either way. She knows he must decide for himself.
9. Elizabeth has realized that she, too, is at fault and that she cannot be John’s
judge.
10. John feels unworthy to die the death of a martyr since he has not lived up to
his own moral standard.

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Study Questions
1. Why is Rebecca Nurse brought in to witness Proctor’s confession?
2. Why does Proctor refuse to name the names of other witches?
3. Why does Proctor refuse to give Danforth the paper with his signature on it?
4. What is the climax of the play?
5. What does Proctor do with the signed confession?
6. How has Proctor earned his death?
7. How does Elizabeth react to his choice of death?
8. When does Proctor claim his good name?
9. What reaction does Rebecca Nurse have to John Proctor’s confession?
10. Does Rebecca Nurse confess?
Answers
1. It is hoped that Proctor’s confession will lead Rebecca to confess as well.
2. While Proctor has made his own decision, he refuses to ruin anyone else’s
good name.

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3. He does not want it used to force others to confess or be seen as an example

of submission.
4. The climax of the play is Proctor’s assertion that his confession was a lie.
5. Proctor tears and crumples the signed confession in front of the judges.
6. Proctor has earned his death by asserting his individuality against the authority
of the court.
7. Elizabeth is proud that John has found his goodness and refuses to dissuade
him.
8. Proctor finds his good name when he asserts his individuality and tears up his
confession.
9. Rebecca is shocked by Proctor’s confession.
10. Rebecca refuses to belie herself by making a false confession.
A Farewell to Arms
) What is the meaning of the title 'A Farewell to Arms'?

Ans. There are two straightforward interpretations of the title "A Farewell to Arms", with a pun on
the word "Arms". The hero, Frederick Henry, bids farewell to 'arms' as in weapons, and also,
when Catherine dies, to the loving 'arms' of a human being.
(ii) What is Hemingway's opinion about war?
Ans. Hemingway thinks that war is a setting in which the qualities of discipline, competence and
masculinity are constantly on display. However, war is a senseless waste of life. It is a
fundamentally unjust atrocity from which people want to escape at all costs. Moreover, victory
and defeat are meaningless terms.

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(iii) How does love affect the characters' perception of war?

Ans. Lovers hate war. As the love between Henry and Catherine grows stronger and more
legitimate, Henry abandons the army. Lovers nurture a desire of home and structured relations,
therefore they dislike war which tends to break down the normally held structures of traditional
relationships, to the point where doctrines such as marriage lose meaning and prostitution
becomes the order of the day.
(iv) What is the role of foreshadowing in 'A Farewell to Arms'?
Ans. Foreshadowing is a literary device in which a writer gives an advance hint of what is to
come later in the story. The role of foreshadowing in 'A Farewell to Arms' is to build anticipation
in the minds of readers about what might happen next and thus adding dramatic tension to the
story. For example, rain has been used to foreshadow bad events in the future.
(v) What kind of weather dominates the novel 'A Farewell to Arms'?
Ans. Rainy weather dominates the novel 'A Farewell to Arms'. Rain symbolizing bad events and
death is presented to the reader in the first chapter and is repeated throughout the entire novel.
Although snowy weather has also been presented, it is the dominant one.
(vi) What do lowlands and mountains symbolize in 'A Farewell to Arms'?
Ans. The novel is crowded with the description of places. They all have their symbolism in the
novel. Among the places, the lowlands and mountains are two important symbols in the story.
The lowlands symbolize distraction, corruption, death and war. And the mountains symbolize
peace, happiness, family, love and purity.
(vii) What does wine symbolize in 'A Farewell to Arms'?
Ans. Like everything in the novel, wine is a complicated business. Most of the men in the novel
drink wine constantly. And often, when they do, wine seems to represent survival. Wine also
represents a momentary respite from the pressure of war. Moreover, wine symbolizes spring,
rebirth, art, fertility, sexual freedom and orgiastic divine ecstasy.
(viii) What are the major conflicts in 'A Farewell to Arms'?
Ans. (i) Love and war are a dangerous combination.
(ii) Henry's love for Catherine cannot quell his innate restlessness.
(iii) Reconciliation with reality is an unattainable as reconciliation with inner desire.
(ix) What is the 'Lost Generation' in 'A Farewell to Arms'?
Ans. The "Lost Generation" was the generation that came of age during World War I. The term
was popularized by Hemingway, who used it as one of two contrasting epigraphs for his novel
"The Sun Also Rises". In "A Farewell to Arms", Hemingway describes "lost generation" through
the character of Frederic Henry who thinks war is a senseless waste of life.
(x) Interpret 'I'm not brave anymore darling. I'm all broken. They've broken me.'
Ans. Catherine experiences a protracted and agonizing childbirth in the hospital. Henry
encourages her to be brave but she is dejected because she is broken by 'they'. It is not clear
who the 'they' is that she is talking about. Perhaps she is talking about people in her past, of
whom no one knows. 'They' could be Catherine's personification of the abstract forces working
against her.
(xi) How is Frederic Henry?
Ans. Fredrick Henry is the narrator and protagonist of the novel "A Farewell to Arms" by
Hemingway. He is a young American ambulance driver in the Italian army during World War I.
He displays courage in battle, but his selfless motivations undermine all sense of glory and
heroism. His life lacks real passion until he meets the beautiful Catherine Barkley.
(xii) Why is Frederic Henry in the ambulance service instead of a combat unit like the
soldier from Pittsburgh?

233
Ans. "A Farewell to Arms" is semi-autobiographical novel. When Hemingway turned eighteen
he tried to enlist in the army, but was deferred because of poor vision. When he heard the Red
Cross was taking volunteers as ambulance drivers in World War I. he quickly signed up. That is
why the hero of Hemingway i.e. Frederic Henry is in the ambulance service instead of a combat
unit.
(xiii) What type of rifle does Frederic has? What country is it from?
Ans. Frederic has a sniper rifle. It is a man-portable, high precision, shoulder-fired rifle used to
ensure more accurate placement of bullets at longer rangers than other small arms. The rifle of
Frederic is from Austria.
(xiv) Why does Frederic Henry plunge into the river The Tagliamento?
Ans. Frederic is arrested by Italian army, tied to a tree and about to be shot when he breaks free
and escapes to the relative safety of the water. He plunges into Tagliamento river, where he
hold onto a log. Fredric's plunge into the river is seen by many as a baptism.
(xv) How is Henry wounded after he crawls out of the river?
Ans. When Henry crawls out of the river, he attempts to hide on a train to Milan. In the attempt,
he cuts his head.
Who is Dr. Valentini?

Dr Valentini a surgeon who operates on the knee of Fredrick Henry.
What is the meaning of the title ‘A Farewell to Arms’?

“A Farewell to Arms” means to bid farewell to weapons or the arms of the beloved.
Henry’s farewell to war and Catherine. He leaves war and Cathrine died.
What kind of weather dominates the novel ‘A Farewell to Arms’?
Rainy weather dominates the novel ‘A Farewell to Arms‘. Rain symbolizes destruction
and death.
What do lowlands and mountains symbolize in ‘A Farewell to Arms’?

Lowlands or plains symbolize destruction, death and war. And the mountains
symbolize peace, love, happiness and family.
Why does Frederic Henry plunge into the river The Tagliamento?
On the bridge of Tagliamento the Italian military police investigating from the soldiers
and shooting those who were away from their convoys during retreat so, Henry plunge
into the river and save himself.

234
Who is Catherine Barkley?
Catherine Barkley is a nurse and heroin of the play. Her fiance was killed in the war
and then she attached to Henry.
Who is Rinaldi?
Lieutenant Rinaldi is surgeon at Red Cross Hospital and roommate of Henry.
Who is Helen Ferguson?
Helen Ferguson is another nurse and friend of Catherine. She cares and help
Catherine.
Who is Miss Gage?
Miss Gage meets Henry in Milan hospital. Henry reveals his first name to her.
Who is Miss Van Campen?
Miss Van Campen is the in charge of Milan hospital. She has cancelled the sick leave
of Henry when she thinks he is sick on purpose.
Who is Dr. Valentini?
Dr Valentini a surgeon who operates on the knee of Fredrick Henry.

235
Jazz
(i) What is the symbolic significance of the title 'Jazz'?

Ans. Jazz is called Jazz because it is structured on a little musical form called ... Jazz. The
novel has alternating character voices that act like solos, repeating refrains that keep it flowing
in one general direction, a feeling of dissonance and harmony at the same dang time -- all of
which are attributes of a musical form called Jazz.
(ii) Tell with reference to Jazz, what is Harlem Renaissance?
Ans. The Harlem Renaissance was the name given to the cultural, social, and artistic explosion
that took place in Harlem between the end of World War I and the middle of the 1930s. During
this period Harlem was a cultural center, drawing black writers, artists, musicians,
photographers, poets, and scholars.
(iii) Why was the Jazz music called the devil's music?
Ans. The reason why jazz was called "the devil's music" was because "Jazz" used to be a slang
word associated with sex. Also, jazz originally came out of the brothels. So the more
"wholesome" members of society did not want anything to do with it.
(iv) What is the effect of Jazz on the lives of poor people?
Ans. Music is an art, entertainment and medicine for the soul and body. It is intrinsic to all
cultures. Jazz was invented by Blacks and made for the poor people. Faced with racism,
discrimination and segregation, the poor black people have always found comfort and a sense
of peace in Jazz music.
(v) Define feminism.
Ans. Feminism is a range of movements and ideologies that share a common goal: to define,
establish, and achieve equal political, economic, cultural, personal, and social rights for women.
This includes seeking to establish equal opportunities for women in education and employment.
A feminist advocates or supports the rights and equality of women.
(vi) Interpret 'Don't ever think I fell for you, or fell over you. I din't fall in love, I rose in it.'
Ans. This line is from Toni Morrison's novel "Jazz". In this line, Joe Trace addresses Dorcas
directly in his imagination. Dorcas is already dead, but his is explaining how he felt and still feels
about her. He does not regret the relationship because he freely chose it.
(vii) Interpret 'When they fall in love with a city, it is forever and it is like forever.'
Ans. The context here is the arrival of Joe and Violet in Harlem in 1906, when they arrived as
part of the great migration north of black people, who were escaping the racism of the South.
They all fell in love with Harlem as a place where the possibilities for them seem endless. So
their love for Harlem will last forever.
(viii) Interpret 'A son ain't what a woman say. A son is what a man do.'
Ans. This line is, in fact, Henry's ultimatum that Golden Gray intends to live as his son, the
young man will have to become less of a prince, accept the physical rigors of rural life and self-
identify as a black person. This line also suggests that masculine identity wholly depends on
man's ability to act, to exercise his will.
(ix) Who is Violet?
Ans. Violet is a fifty-six year old woman living in Harlem with her husband Joe. She is
nicknamed "Violent" after she invades Dorcas' funeral to dishonor the girl's face with a knife. An
orphan raised by her grandmother in rural Virginia, Violet herself has no children and, after
several miscarriages, she longs for a child.

236
(x) Why does Violet release her encaged birds?

Ans. Violet releases her encaged birds after Dorcas dies. She rejects what she holds dear, both
in terms of the birds and in terms of her relationship with Joe.
(xi) Why does Violet plan to get herself a boyfriend?
Ans. Violet's husband Joe had a young girlfriend named Dorcas whom Joe killed at a party.
Violet is mean enough and good looking enough to think that even without hips or youth she can
punish Joe by getting herself a boyfriend in her own house. She thinks it will dry his tears up
and give her some satisfaction as well.
(xii) Who is Joe Trace?
Ans. Joe Trace is Violet's husband. He is a good looking man in his late fifties. He works hard,
shuttling between a job as a waiter and a cosmetic salesman. He loves his wife but is hurt when
she closes herself off from him because of her depression. A sympathetic character, Joe is
nonetheless a murderer and adulterer, cheating his wife and then killing his lover.
(xiii) Name the parents of Joe Trace.
Ans. No one knows the real names of Joe's parents. When Joe is in school, he is asked to
supply a last name for himself and he comes up with Trace because his adoptive mother has
told him "O honey (your parents) disappeared without a trace." Joe's mother is rumored to live
around the town of Vienna, Virginia and is named Wild.
(xiv) Why is there tension between Joe and Violet?
Ans. Joe and Violet are husband and wife. However, there is always tension between their
relationship. The main reason is the presence of "other" in both characters. Moreover, both
have grown up motherless. Violet's eccentricity and depression on one hand and Joe's love and
murder of Docras on the other hand create tension between their relationship.
(xv) Why are Joe and Violet subject of ridicule in their community?
Ans. Joe and Violet are ridiculed in their community because they are old black couple. Both
have grown up motherless. Moreover, Violet makes little money as an unlicensed hairdresser,
arriving at her clients' residences.
What are the major themes in ‘Jazz’?

The major themes in ‘Jazz’ are youth and old age, memories, marriage, death and
isolation etc.
What is the symbolic significance of the title ‘Jazz’?
Title ‘Jazz’ is significant because the structure of the novel is on the music of ‘Jazz’
(Afro-American). Features of Jazz music is improvisational, multiple voices, repetition,
historical framework and romanticism found in the structure of the novel.
Who is Dorcas?
Dorcas is a young girl living with her Aunt Alice Manfred. She has a love affair
with Joe Trace but later on she loves to a young boy Acton and confronted the Joe.
She was shot down by Joe Trace.

237
What kind of young woman is Dorcas?
Dorcas is an emotional and passionate kind of girl.
Why does Joe shoot Dorcas?
Joe shoots Dorcas because she has love affair with Acton after Joe and she confront
him.
What happens on Dorcas’s funeral?
On Dorcas funeral Violet makes scratches with a knife on Dorcas face in anger.
Why was Joe Trace not persecuted for killing Dorcas?
It is Dorcas who know that she is shot by Joe but she did not take his name that
police can capture him.
How does Dorcas’s mother die?
Dorcas’s mother named Rose Dearsuicides by plunging into the well.
Who is Alice Manfred?
Alice Manfred is the Aunt of Dorcas and later in the novel friend of Violet.
Who is Golden Gray and why is he given this name?
Golden Gray is the son of Henry (black) and Vera (white). He is given this name due
to his radiant golden complexion.
Why does Morrison tell us the story of Golden Gray?
He wants to reveal us about the mother of Joe character and story through Golden
Gray.
Who is Felice?
Felice is the best friend of Dorcas she was also young girl.

238
Who is Wild?
Wild is a homeless woman and comes from woods. She may be the mother of Joe.
Who is Less Troy?
Less Troy is the teacher of Joe and at his home Violet grandmother True Belle lives
and Golden Gray and his mother also.
Who is Rose Dear?
Rose Dear is the mother of Dorcas and she suicides by plunging into the well.
Study Questions
1. Why is Violet referred to as the “Bird Lady”?
2. Why does the narrator describe Joe and Dorcas’ relationship as “one of those deep
down, spooky loves”?
Answers
1. Violet is called the “Bird Lady” because she keeps a parrot and lots of other birds in
her apartment. She communicates with the birds and her parrot says “I love you.”
2. Joe and Dorcas’ relationship is labeled “spooky” because it was unusual and
unnatural. There was more than a 30 year difference in their ages. After Joe shot
Dorcas he cried everyday about it and was unable to resume a normal life. To protect
him, Dorcas refused to name Joe as the person who shot her. After her death, the love
continued and became more intense.
Study Questions
1. Why did Violet have trouble sleeping at night?
2. Why does Joe try so hard to remember everything about Dorcas?

239
3. How will these memories help Joe?
Answers
1. Violet has trouble sleeping once the birds are set free. Little things she had to do for
them at night like covering their cages, helped her settle down to sleep.
2. Joe sits around and thinks about Dorcas day and night. He tries to remember
everything beginning with the time he first met her. This way her memory won’t fade and
he can keep their love alive.
3. Remembering Dorcas and the intensity of his feelings for her will help him stay
young. When he can’t remember exactly how he felt at the time, he will be old.
Study Questions
1. What was the purpose of the protest march?
2. Alice Manfred made a good living. How did this affect her attitude about things?
3. How did Dorcas react to the tragedy surrounding her parents’ deaths?
Answers
1. Dorcas and her aunt attended the protest parade in honor of her parents who were
killed in two separate racial incidents. African-Americans responded solemnly and in
silence against such acts of violence that were occurring in locations throughout the
country.
2. Alice Manfred would be described as bourgeois. She had made it and could not
understand why everyone hadn’t. She thought the average African-American was
beneath her.
3. Dorcas’ reaction to her parents’ deaths was to become mute. For a long period of time she
refused to speak.

240
Study Questions
1. What is the major difference between the two Violets?
2. At the funeral, what was the job that the boy ushers had to do?
Answers
1. The original Violet is unsure of herself and starting to lose her mind. The other Violet
is mean and very clear about what she wants to do. The other Violet turned everything
she looked at into a potential weapon. She pushed people and fought back when
necessary.
2. The boys thought that they would be pallbearers and direct mourners to their seats.
When Violet tried to attack the body, their job was to use every ounce of their strength
to stop her.
Study Questions
1. The narrator feels that Joe should have gotten some advice concerning his
affair with Dorcas. Why didn’t Joe confide in his friends?
2. Why did Joe give himself the last name Trace?
3. What is a Hunter’s Hunter?
4. Why does Violet begin to sleep with a doll?
5. On the outside Joe was 50 years old. What was he like on the inside?
6. Dorcas was like candy to Joe. What advice do our parents give us about
candy?

241
7. What were some of the reasons for the race riots?
8. Why did Joe need Dorcas so badly?
9. What did ladies like about Joe?
10. What finally caused Joe to move to New York City?
Answers
1. Joe didn’t confide in his friends because he felt they would laugh at him and
be of no help. He also felt that he couldn’t talk to anyone but Dorcas.
2. Joe named himself Trace because his parents disappeared without a trace.
3. Hunter’s Hunter is a name of honor given to a woodsman with exceptional

hunting, fishing, and tracking skills.
4. Although Violet said she didn’t want children, reaching age 40 she starts to
experience baby hunger. Sleeping with a doll satisfies this desire.
5. Although Joe was a middle-aged man, he felt like a 16-year-old inside. He

was young at heart.
6. Parents always warn their children not to eat too much candy. Excess candy
can ruin the teeth and cause a stomachache.
7. In the North, African-Americans and whites fought each other in the street
over jobs, housing, and social indignities.

242
8. Joe was a 50-year-old man who felt that life was passing him by. At this point
in their marriage, he and Violet rarely talked and he felt he needed to be
actively loved again. Dorcas was the solution.
9. Ladies liked Joe because he was handsome, he was a gentleman, and he

had a gentle, country way of speaking.
10. Joe felt it was time to move to the city once Booker T. Washington was
invited to the White House.
Study Questions
1. Describe what Violet’s life was like at age 12.
2. Why do you think Violet’s neighbors were so generous in their help to her family?
3. Why did Violet’s father leave the family?
Answers
1. At age 12, after her father deserted his family, Violet lived in poverty with her mother
and four brothers and sisters. They were evicted from their home and they were often
hungry.
2. The neighbors were so helpful because they understood that the same thing could
happen to them. They were just a bit luckier so they shared whatever they had.
3. Violet’s father gave up and left. He was tired of the work, the hunger, and that he
couldn’t do anything about it.
Study Questions
1. What did the narrator think would happen?

243
2. What actually did happen?
3. Why did Joe cry so much?
4. When Joe was hunting Dorcas what was he really doing?
5. Why did Wild hide from everyone?
6. Why does Joe love the long distance eyes of the soap box speakers?
7. What were some of the good things about Joe’s new job?
8. Exactly how has Joe and Violet’s relationship improved?
9. What are some of the things Violet tries, to help the new bird get well?
10. Explain how life is easier for Joe and Violet.
Answers
1. The narrator thought that Violet would hurt or kill Joe. When she saw Felice,
she thought she would act just like Dorcas.
2. Violet and Joe saved their marriage and got their lives back in order.
3. Everyone thought Joe cried about shooting Dorcas. Now the narrator
understands that he could have been crying for Violet, his mother, and for
making one change too many.

244
4. The narrator believes that he might have been hunting for his mother at the
same time.
5. Wild hid from everyone because she knew that she frightened people. She
didn’t want to scare anybody.
6. The long distance eyes of the soap box speakers reminds Joe of his mother’s
eyes.
7. Joe’s new job required that he work at night. Now he was free during the day
to spend time with Violet.
8. Joe and Violet’s relationship has improved because they talk to each other
and do things together like play cards. They appreciate each other and are in
love again.
9. Violet’s new bird is sickly. To make the bird get better she offers it special food,
she talks sweet talk to the bird and finally lets the bird listen to music. The music
helps the bird turn into a delightful pet.
10. Joe and Violet don’t have to worry about the opinions or acceptance of
anyone. Life is much easier for them now that they only have to worry about
themselves.

The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales

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1

(i) Why is Spenser called 'The Poets' Poet'?

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Write the Rhyme scheme of a Shakespearean sonnets?

What, in general, is the theme of Shakespearean sonnets?

How does Shakespeare compare his beloved to a summer’s day?

Who is ‘Dark Lady’ in Shakespearean sonnets?

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Why was Knight Red Cross accompanying Una?

Who was Archimago?

What appeal does Una make to the Queen?

What role does Archimago play in “The Faerie Queene”?

Why does Knight Red Cross help Lady Una?

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Define Spenserian stanza?

Who called Spenser “Poets’ Poet”?

What represents the Knight of the Red Cross?