Ans: Ausable cleverly got rid of Max by using his presence of mind. He invented a story about a balcony outside his window. When there was a knock at the door, Ausable said it was the police. Terrified, Max tried to escape through the “balcony” and fell to his death, as no balcony actually existed.
Q2: Read the following extract and answer the questions: “It’s not my balcony,” Ausable said with extreme irritation. “It belongs to the next apartment.” He glanced explanatorily at Fowler. “You see,” he said, “this room used to be part of a large unit, and the next room – through that door there – used to be the living room. It had the balcony, which extends under my window now. You can get onto it from the empty room two doors down – and somebody did, last month. The management promised to block it off. But they haven’t.”
(i) What was the management supposed to do regarding the balcony? (1 Mark)
Ans: The management was supposed to block off the balcony that extended under Ausable’s window.
(ii) Which of the following was the reason that irritated Ausable about the balcony? (1 Mark) (a) its size and layout (b) its location relative to his apartment (c) its accessibility from the neighbouring unit (d) its maintenance by the apartment management
Ans: (C) its accessibility from the neighbouring unit
(iii) How does Ausable’s detailed explanation of the balcony’s history and current accessibility contribute to the atmosphere of suspense or tension in the story? Answer in about 40 words. (2 Marks)
Ans: Ausable’s detailed explanation makes the existence of the balcony seem completely believable. It convinces both Fowler and Max that someone could enter through it, adding realism and heightening suspense, especially when Max later tries to escape through the “balcony.”
(iv) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets. The reference to ‘last month’ and ‘now’ adds to a sense of______________ (reconciliation/mystery). (1 Mark)
Ans: Ausable fabricated a clever story about a balcony that supposedly extended under his window. He said it belonged to the next apartment and could be reached from an empty room two doors down. He added that someone had entered through it last month, making the story believable and fooling Max completely.
Q4: Fowler’s disappointment arose when he laid eyes on Ausable. Rationalise the statement. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Fowler was disappointed on seeing Ausable because he expected a secret agent to be mysterious and adventurous, like those in stories and movies. Instead, Ausable was a fat, ordinary man with an American accent, living in a dull, small room—far from the thrilling spy image Fowler had imagined.
Q5: What story did Ausable cook up regarding the arrival of the police? How did it affect Max? (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Ausable invented a story that he had called the police to protect the important report he was expecting. When there was a knock at the door, Max believed it to be the police. Terrified of being caught, he tried to escape through the “balcony” and fell to his death, as no balcony existed.
Q6: Examine the witty strategy used by Ausable in emerging as a super spy. (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 marks)
Ans: Ausable used his wit and presence of mind to turn a dangerous situation into victory. He calmly fabricated the stories of a balcony and police arrival, making Max panic. Without any weapon or fight, he outsmarted Max using only intelligence, proving himself a true and clever spy.
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Previous Year Questions 2024
Q1: One should never judge a book by its cover. Explain with reference to Ausable and how he outwits Max with his presence of mind. (CBSE 2024) OR Despite his unusual appearance, Ausable’s presence of mind helped him get rid of Max. Comment with reference to the story ‘The Midnight Visitor’.
Ans: In “The Midnight Visitor,” Ausable demonstrates the saying “One should never judge a book by its cover.” Despite appearing fat and unassuming, Ausable’s quick thinking and clever deception outwit the cunning Max. By creating an illusion of a balcony and arranging a fake police visit, Ausable shows his true intellect, proving that appearances can be deceiving.
Q2: Who was Henry? What role did he play in Ausable’s plan? (CBSE 2024)
Ans: Henry was a server at the French hotel where Ausable had a room. He played a vital part in helping Ausable’s plan as it was Henry’s knock at the door which frightened Max as he mistook it to be a policeman at the door. This confusion forced Max to jump from the window assuming it to be a deck and hence helping Ausable’s plan to get relief from Max.
Also read: Very Short Questions: The Midnight Visitor
Max was a secret agent and an enemy of Ausable. He was slim and slightly shorter than average. He looked cunning and had a face that resembled a fox. The only thing threatening about him was his gun.
Ans:Ausable was different from other secret agents because he lived in a small room in the musty corridor of a gloomy French hotel which was on the sixth and top floor. There was nothing thrilling or adventurous about it. On the top of that, he was extremely fat. Though he had been living in Paris for more than twenty years. He spoke French and German only passably with an American accent.
Q6: Ausable moved to an armchair and sat down heavily. “I’m going to raise the devil with the management this time, and you can bet on it,” he said grimly. “This is the second time in a month that somebody has got into my room through that nuisance of a balcony!” (2020)
(a) Who is Ausable? (i) A secret agent (ii) A tourist in a hotel (iii) A reporter (iv) A businessman
Ans: (i) Ausable is described as a secret agent dealing with espionage and danger.
(b) Why was Ausable angry with the management? (i) His room was unsafe. (ii) The food was not good. (iii) The balcony was a nuisance. (iv) The armchair was not soft.
Ans: trick Ausable uses the story of the balcony to deceive his visitor, Max.
Q7: Max bit his lip nervously. The knocking was repeated. “What will you do now, Max?” Ausable asked. “If I do not answer the door, they will enter anyway. The door is unlocked. And they will not hesitate to shoot.” (2020)
(a) Who is Max? (i) a spy (ii) a tourist (iii) a businessman (iv) a waiter
(b) Max became nervous because: (i) he got scared of Ausable. (ii) he thought the police had come. (iii) the door was unlocked. (iv) Ausable did not get up to open the door.
Ans: nervously “Nervously” is the antonym of “confidently.”
Q8: Ausable was, for one thing, fat. Very fat. And then there was his accent. Though he spoke French and German passably, he had never altogether lost the American accent he had brought to Paris from Boston twenty years ago. “You are disappointed,” Ausable said wheezily over his shoulder. (2020)
(a) Who is ‘you’ here? (i) Fowler (ii) Ausable (iii) Waiter (iv) Max
Ans: American Despite his fluency, Ausable retained his American accent.
Q9: Max bit his lip nervously. The knocking was repeated. “What will you do now, Max?” Ausable asked. “If I do not answer the door, they will enter anyway. The door is unlocked. And they will not hesitate to shoot.” Max’s face was black with anger as he backed swiftly towards the window. (2020 C)
(a) Who was knocking at the door? (i) A waiter (ii) A policeman (iii) A friend (iv) A guest
Q1: Read the following extract and answer the questions: “Later, he patted me on the head and said never mind, he’d teach me to cook. He also taught me to write my name and said he would soon teach me to write whole sentences and to add numbers. I was grateful. I knew that once I could write like an educated man there would be no limit to what I could achieve. It was quite pleasant working for Anil. I made the tea in the morning and then would take my time buying the day’s supplies, usually making a profit of about a rupee a day. I think he knew I made a little money this way but he did not seem to mind.”
(i) What does the following line tell us about the character of Anil? “I think he knew I made a little money this way but he did not seem to mind.” (1 Mark)
Ans: Anil’s character is portrayed as kind and empathetic. By not confronting Hari Singh about the small profit he makes while buying supplies, Anil demonstrates a forgiving and lenient attitude. This suggests he values Hari’s presence and potential for growth over petty financial discrepancies, reflecting his trust in Hari and his desire to foster a positive relationship rather than enforce strict accountability.
(ii) Which of the following best describes the realization Hari Singh had while working for Anil? (1 Mark) (a) that he would become a rich person one day (b) that Anil was a very intelligent master but a miser (c) that he would be able to accomplish a lot if he gets educated (d) that Anil made a lot of money from his job
Ans: (C) that he would be able to accomplish a lot if he gets educated Hari Singh’s realization, as stated in the extract, is that learning to “write like an educated man” would open limitless opportunities for him. This reflects his newfound appreciation for education, inspired by Anil’s teachings.
(iii) What did Anil promise to teach Hari Singh, and how did Hari Singh feel about the opportunity to learn? Answer in about 40 words. (2 Marks)
Ans: Anil promised to teach Hari Singh to cook, write whole sentences, and add numbers. Hari Singh felt grateful and optimistic, believing that education would enable him to achieve limitless possibilities, transforming his life beyond thievery.
(iv) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets. The narrator earned extra money by making a/an _____________ (profit/investment) of about a rupee a day. (1 Mark)
Ans: Anil’s acceptance and forgiveness of Hari Singh showcase his empathy and generosity. Despite knowing Hari’s deceitful nature, Anil trusts him with responsibilities and teaches him valuable skills. When Hari steals money and returns, Anil silently accepts him back without confrontation, suggesting he understands Hari’s internal struggle. By promising regular payment, Anil encourages Hari’s reformation, reflecting his belief in second chances. This generosity fosters Hari’s moral awakening, as Anil’s kindness makes Hari value trust over theft. Anil’s empathetic approach, overlooking Hari’s flaws to nurture his potential, transforms Hari, highlighting Anil’s character as a compassionate mentor who prioritizes human growth over punishment.
Q3: How and when did Hari Singh meet Anil? Why did Hari Singh lie that he knew how to cook? (Answer in 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: Hari Singh met Anil at a wrestling match, where Anil’s kind and simple demeanor attracted Hari, who saw him as an easy target for theft. Hari approached Anil, offering his services, and Anil, needing help, took him in. Hari lied about knowing how to cook to secure the job, as he was a thief seeking opportunities to exploit Anil’s trust. His deception was driven by his opportunistic nature, aiming to gain access to Anil’s home for potential theft. However, Anil’s kindness and trust later influence Hari, leading to his moral transformation, highlighting the contrast between Hari’s initial deceit and Anil’s genuine generosity.
Q4: How did Anil bring about a change in Hari Singh? (Answer in 100-120 words)
Ans: Anil transformed Hari Singh through his trust, kindness, and mentorship. By teaching Hari to cook, write, and add numbers, Anil offered him a path to self-improvement. Despite Hari’s theft, Anil’s silent forgiveness and decision to pay him regularly showed unwavering belief in Hari’s potential. This empathy stirred Hari’s conscience, making him feel guilt and value Anil’s trust over the stolen money. Anil’s non-confrontational approach and generosity awakened Hari’s sense of morality, leading him to return the money and choose an honest life. Anil’s nurturing environment contrasted with Hari’s past, inspiring him to aspire for education and a better future.
Q5: Hari’s character evolves from being deceitful and opportunistic to remorseful and seeking redemption. Describe how his decision to return the money signifies a moral awakening in him and a newfound appreciation for Anil’s kindness and mentorship. (Answer in 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: Hari Singh’s decision to return the stolen money marks a moral awakening, as he prioritizes Anil’s trust over personal gain. Initially deceitful, Hari steals Anil’s money but hesitates, realizing that losing Anil’s mentorship would cost him the chance to learn and reform. His remorse reflects his appreciation for Anil’s kindness, which contrasts with his past experiences. By returning the money, Hari rejects his thieving ways, valuing the opportunity for education and a better life that Anil offers. This act signifies his redemption, as he chooses integrity over dishonesty, inspired by Anil’s unwavering trust and nurturing guidance.
Q6: How do Anil’s initial reaction to Hari Singh’s cooking and his subsequent actions reflect Anil’s evolving relationship with Hari Singh? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Anil’s initial kind reaction to Hari’s poor cooking, offering to teach him, shows his patience. His subsequent actions—teaching literacy and ignoring Hari’s small profits—reflect a growing trust and mentorship, fostering Hari’s transformation through empathy and support.
Q7: Why did Hari Singh choose to go back to Anil in the end? (Answer in 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: Hari Singh chose to return to Anil because Anil’s trust and kindness awakened his conscience, making him value their relationship over the stolen money. Anil’s mentorship, offering education and a chance for a better life, gave Hari hope for reform. Fleeing would mean losing the opportunity to learn and gain Anil’s respect. The guilt of betraying Anil, who never confronted Hari’s deceit, stirred remorse, prompting him to return the money and stay. Anil’s non-judgmental nature and belief in Hari’s potential inspired him to choose honesty, marking a shift from his thieving past to a desire for a meaningful future.
Q8: How was Hari Singh’s ‘appealing smile’ at the end different from similar smiles of his on earlier occasions? (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Hari Singh’s final ‘appealing smile’ reflects genuine gratitude and sincerity, unlike his earlier manipulative smiles used to deceive Anil. It signifies his moral transformation, as he now values Anil’s trust and mentorship, marking a shift from deceit to honesty.
Q9: What makes Hari Singh describe Anil as the most trusting person he had ever met? (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Hari describes Anil as the most trusting person because Anil overlooks his deceit, like the small profits from shopping, and continues to teach and trust him. Even after Hari’s theft, Anil’s silent forgiveness reinforces his unwavering belief in Hari’s potential.
Q10: What led the narrator to believe that ‘friends were more trouble than help’? (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Hari Singh believed ‘friends were more trouble than help’ because his past experiences with friends likely involved betrayal or complications, reinforcing his solitary, thieving lifestyle. Anil’s trust and kindness contrast this, showing Hari the value of genuine relationships, prompting his change.
Q11: Read the following extract and answer the questions: There was a fifty rupee note between his fingers. My heart sank. I thought I had been discovered. “I made some money yesterday,” he explained. “Now you’ll be paid regularly.” My spirits rose. But when 1 took the note, I saw it was still wet from the night’s rain. Today we’ll start writing sentences,” he said. He knew. But neither his lips nor his eyes showed anything.
(i) In the context of the given extract: What was the feeling UNLIKELY to have been on seeing ‘a fifty rupee note between his fingers’? (1 Mark) (a) joyous (b) sad (c) unhappy (d) worried
Ans: (B) sad The extract likely refers to the moment Hari Singh steals Anil’s money. Seeing a fifty-rupee note would evoke feelings like excitement or anxiety, not sadness. Sadness is unlikely, as Hari’s intent was theft, driven by opportunism, not sorrow.
(ii) How does the prospect of being paid regularly affect the narrator’s motivation and hope for the future? (Answer in about 40 words) (2 marks)
Ans: The prospect of regular payment boosts Hari Singh’s motivation and hope, offering stability and a legitimate income. It reinforces his trust in Anil’s kindness, inspiring him to pursue education and a better future, moving away from thievery.
(iii) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket: The person spoken about did not let the narrator realise that his act of stealing was caught. It reflects the ___________ (nobility / dishonesty) of his character. (1 Mark)
Ans: It reflects the nobility of his character. Anil’s decision not to confront Hari about the theft reflects his noble character, as he prioritizes Hari’s reformation over punishment. This act of silent forgiveness showcases Anil’s empathy and desire to guide Hari toward honesty.
(iv) Compare the meanings of the expressions: “My heart sank”, and “My spirits rose”. (1 mark)
Ans: “My heart sank” indicates feelings of disappointment or guilt, while “My spirits rose” suggests joy or optimism. In the context of Hari’s theft and return, “my heart sank” likely describes his guilt when contemplating betraying Anil, while “my spirits rose” could reflect his relief or hope upon returning and being accepted.
Q12: According to a popular quote – ‘Kindness is stronger than iron bars’. Anil did not hand the thief over to the police. In what way did Anil’s act of wisdom and forgiveness transform Hari Singh? (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 marks)
Ans: Anil’s kindness and forgiveness, by not reporting Hari’s theft, stirred Hari’s conscience, leading to his moral transformation. This act made Hari value Anil’s trust, prompting him to return the money and choose honesty, aspiring for a better life through education.
Previous Year Questions 2024
Q1: Read the given extracts and answer the questions: I went back to the bazaar and sat down in the shelter of the clock tower. The clock showed midnight. I felt for the notes. They were damp from the rain. Anil’s Money. In the morning he would probably have given me two or three rupees to go to the cinema, but now I had it all. I couldn’t cook his meals, run to the bazaar, or learn to write whole sentences any more. I had forgotten about them in the excitement of the theft. Whole sentences, I knew, could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees. It was a simple matter to steal- and sometimes just as simple to be caught. (CBSE 2024)
(i) Which of the following is NOT a reason why Hari Singh thinks he would not be able to write whole sentences ? (a) Anil would not be there to teach him. (b) He had robbed Anil and left. (c) He would not go back to Anil to learn. (d) He had no money to take admission in school.
Ans: (d) He had no money to take admission in school.
(ii) Why is it fair to say that Hari Singh’s tone, when he says “I couldn’t cook his meals, run to the bazaar or learn to write whole sentences any more,” is filled with remorse and regret? Answer in about 40 words.
Ans: Hari realizes that the theft that he has done has led to severe loss in his routine. He feels that the gain is insignificant in comparison to the loss that the has suffered and so, he is regretful.
(ii) What do you infer about Hari Singh from this statement? “Whole sentences, I knew, could one day bring me more than a few hundred rupees.”
Ans: Hari Singh realizes that getting education will enable him to earn more money and he finds the petty thefts that he does to be insignificant. He is ambitious and wants to earn his money the right may.
(iv) State True or False with reference to the given extract. The reason Hari Singh was filled with a feeling of guilt was because Anil trusted him.
Q2: Hari Singh says – “He knew it but neither his lips nor his eyes showed anything.” Anil successfully addressed the situation by not addressing it at all. Elaborate based on your reading of The Thief’s Story. (CBSE 2024)
Ans: When Anil handed the wet currency to Hari Singh, it showed that he was aware that Hari had attempted theft. Anil chose not to confront Hari and he said a lot without speaking a single word. By doing this Anil showed trust in Hari and this made Hari responsible. Hari felt the need to prove his worthiness to such a trusting man. Hari did not want to leave Anil because Anil’s company promised a better future in terms of gaining education and a friend. Anil also believed that there could be the possibility that Hari Singh would change his mood and passion.
Q3: Imagine that Hari Singh from ‘The Thief’s Story’ by Ruskin Bond, writes a diary entry, exploring the theme of human values and relations that are essential in life and can transform a person in the context of his own experience. Write this diary entry as Hari Singh. (CBSE 2024)
Ans: Dear Diary, Today has been a day of reckoning for me. I’ve always lived by taking what I needed, often without considering the consequences. But today, I faced a dilemma that made me question everything. Anil, the man I tried to steal from, showed me kindness and trust instead of anger or betrayal. His simple gestures of teaching me to cook and write left a deep impact on me. I realized that human values like trust, kindness, and forgiveness are not weaknesses, but strengths that can transform a person. Anil’s faith in me, despite my deceit, made me reflect on my own actions and the emptiness of my previous life. I returned the money I stole, not out of fear, but out of a newfound respect. Today taught me that relationships built on honesty and mutual respect are the true wealth in life. I want to learn from Anil, to become a better person, and perhaps, to find redemption. Yours sincerely, Hari Singh
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Previous Year Questions 2023
Q4: What was the thief’s reaction when he took Anil’s money? (CBSE 2023)
Ans: As the thief got the money he quickly crawled out of the room. When he was on the road, he began to run. He had the notes at his waist, held them by the string of his pyjamas. Later on he slowed down to walk and counted the notes. He thought that with those 600 rupees he could lead a luxurious life like an oil-rich Arab at least for a week.
Q5: Why did the thief smile without any effect towards the end of the story? (CBSE 2023)
Ans: The thief smiled at Anil towards the end of the story in his most appealing way. But unlike as on previous occasions, this smile was natural and from the innermost comer of his heart. Being spontaneous, the smile was “without any effect”.
Q6: What does he say about the different reactions of people when they are robbed? (CBSE 2023)
Ans: In his short career as a thief, he has studied reactions of so many people when they are robbed off their belongings. He has Observed that the greedy people showed fear; the rich showed anger and the poor people showed acceptance.
Q7: How did Hari Singh justify to himself his stealing Anil’s money? (CBSE 2023)
Ans: Hari Singh justified stealing from Anil by saying that if he did not steal, Anil would waste the money on his friends. Moreover, Hari believed that since Anil had not been paying him any salary, it was another reason for him to rob Anil.
Q8: Trust and compassion can reform a person. Justify this statement in the light of the lesson ‘The Thief’s Story’. (CBSE 2023)
Ans: Trust and compassion can indeed reform a person, as demonstrated in the story ‘The Thief’s Story’. Anil, the young man who hired Hari Singh as a domestic help, was the epitome of generosity and trust. He gave Hari Singh a key to his room, allowing him the freedom to come and go as he pleased. One day, Hari Singh stole six-hundred rupees while Anil was sleeping and went to the railway station to catch a train and escape after the robbery. However, his conscience pricked him for robbing a man like Anil, who had trusted him and always treated him with kindness. He realized that Anil would be saddened not by the loss of money, but by the loss of trust and faith he had in Hari Singh. Hari did not want to lose the chance of getting an education and leading a respectable life, so he made the decision to return. In this way, the trust, love, and compassion shown by Anil ultimately reformed a thief.
Q9: Why does Anil not hand over Hari Singh to the police? (CBSE 2023)
Ans: Anil didn’t hand over Hari to the police because if Anil had done it, Hari would have never reformed. He would have gone back to his old ways of cheating and stealing from people, which Anil didn’t want. Thus, by doing so, he gave Hari another chance to reform.
Previous Year Questions 2022
Q10: Fiction writers prefer creating grey characters rather than black and white. Analyse this in detail, with reference to both the characters of The Thief’s Story. (2022-23)
Ans: Both the characters in ‘The Thief’s Story’ are neither completely black or white. They have their own qualities out of which some need improvement. We may consider both the personas as grey. The narrator of the story was a thief of 15 years. He had worked for different employees. He used to change his place after cheating his owner. Now he made Anil, who was an easy going person and writer by profession, his friend. He keeps faith in Hari Singh giving him shelter in his own house, although he does not have any clear information about him. On the other hand, Hari Singh was artful and smart for his age. He didn’t have shame in lying and stealing. One day he stole Anil’s money and went out of the room but came back. His conscience stopped him from doing so. Even he made no effort to confess that he had given in to the temptation of stealing the notes. His heart had been changed due to love, affection and faith Anil had shown. In this way, we may conclude that grey characters are unpredictable and present a moral challenge to the readers.
Also read: Worksheet: The Thief’s Story
Previous Year Questions 2021
Q11: After cooking a bad meal and told to go away, Hari stayed on as he : (a) needed a job. (b) needed shelter. (c) wanted to steal something. (d) found Anil to be very simple. (Term I, 2021-22)
Ans: Anil employed Hari Singh on the condition that if he could cook, he would be fed and given a place to stay. However, Hari Singh failed in his job by not only lying about his ability to cook but also by stealing money from Anil.
Q13: It was quite pleasant working for Anil as: (a) he was quite rich (b) he never complained (c) he was a very simple person (d) he could be easily fooled (CBSE Term-1 2021)
Ans: Hari Singh is a thief who would do anything to ensure his survival. He lied about his name and his abilities to Anil in order to have a place to stay and earn money. At the same time, he is also a human being, as shown by his decision to return the stolen money. His reluctance to betray Anil demonstrates his human side perfectly.
Q15: Why does Anil not hand Hari Singh over to the police? (2020)
Ans: Anil does not hand Hari Singh over to the police because he sees a change in him. He realizes that Hari has realized his mistake and wants to mend his ways, as evidenced by his decision to put the stolen money back. Anil has a humble nature and wants to give Hari a chance. Therefore, he forgives him for stealing and decides to encourage the spirit of goodness in him.
Q16: In which queer way did Anil make a living? (2020)
Ans: Anil made a living in a peculiar way. He would borrow money one week and lend it the next. He would worry about his next paycheck, but as soon as it arrived, he would spend it all. He also wrote for magazines, which was another unconventional way of making money to support his lifestyle.
Q17: What made Hari Singh come back to Anil? (Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2020)
Ans: Hari Singh returned to Anil because he realised that he had robbed the most trustworthy person that he had ever met. Anil’s kindness, love, and help that he provided him made him repent of his mistake and brought him back to him.
Previous Year Questions 2018
Q18: In which queer way did Anil make a living? (The Thief’s Story) (CBSE 2018)
Ans: Anil made money in fits and starts. He would borrow one week, lend the next. He would worry about his next paycheck, but spend it all as soon as it arrived. It seemed like a peculiar way of making a living.
Test: The Thief’s Story
Previous Year Questions 2016
Q19: Did Hari like working for Anil? Give reasons in support of your answer. (Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2016)
Ans: Yes, Hari Singh liked working for Anil as he did not have to do a lot of work. He used to make tea in the morning and go out to the local market to buy the daily essentials. In the process of buying daily essentials, Hari would also steal about a rupee for himself.
Q1: Analyze how Herriot uses Tricki and Mrs. Pumphrey’s relationship to comment on societal attitudes towards pets and the responsibilities associated with their care. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Herriot uses Tricki and Mrs. Pumphrey’s relationship to highlight how excessive pampering and overfeeding pets reflect misguided affection. Mrs. Pumphrey treats Tricki like a child, ignoring his real needs. Through this, Herriot comments that true care means discipline and understanding, not indulgence or emotional overdependence on pets.
Q2: Read the following extract and answer the questions: “Tricki was tottering along in his little tweed coat… He struggled on, drooping in his harness. I thought it wouldn’t be long before I heard from Mrs. Pumphrey. The expected call came within a few days. Mrs. Pumphrey was distraught. Tricki would eat nothing. Refused even his favourite dishes, and besides, he had bouts of vomiting. He spent all his time lying on a rug, panting. Didn’t want to go for walks, didn’t want to do anything. I had made my plans in advance. The only way was to get Tricki out of the house for a period. I suggested that he be hospitalized for about a fortnight to be kept under observation. The poor lady almost swooned. She was sure he would pine and die if he did not see her every day. But I took a firm line. Tricki was very ill and this was the only way to save him.”
(i) Why had the author made his plans in advance? (1 Mark) (a) Mrs. Pumphrey was worried that Tricki would pine and die without her. (b) The author was aware of the severity of Tricki’s medical condition. (c) The author knew about Mrs. Pumphrey’s financial condition. (d) The author had planned his own vacation.
Ans: (b) The author was aware of the severity of Tricki’s medical condition.
Herriot knew Tricki was seriously ill due to overfeeding and lack of exercise, so he had already decided that hospitalisation was necessary.
(ii) The author firmly proposed the need to remove Tricki from the house for a specified period. Elaborate the reason for doing so in about 40 words. (2 Marks)
Ans: Herriot wanted to remove Tricki from his pampered environment where Mrs. Pumphrey’s overindulgence made him worse. At the surgery, he could control Tricki’s diet, monitor his health, and help him recover through rest, exercise, and proper care without interference.
(iii) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets. (1 Mark) The word ‘swooned’ in the following sentence: “The poor lady almost swooned.” indicates almost __________ (tripped/fainted).
Ans: It shows that Mrs. Pumphrey was emotionally overattached and highly anxious about Tricki’s well-being. She panicked easily, revealing her excessive affection and inability to handle separation from her pet.
Q3: Lunch transformed into a significant ceremonial event for Mr. Herriot and his associates. Do you agree? Explain with reference to ‘A Triumph of Surgery’. (3 Marks)
Ans: Yes, lunch became a significant ceremonial event for Mr. Herriot and his associates. Mrs. Pumphrey, believing it would strengthen Tricki, sent eggs, wine, and brandy to the surgery. Herriot and his partners enjoyed these luxuries, turning their meals into grand occasions, while Tricki continued to recover happily without any medicines.
Q4: Why did Mrs. Pumphrey think the dog’s recovery is ‘a triumph of surgery’? (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mrs. Pumphrey believed Tricki’s recovery was “a triumph of surgery” because she thought Mr. Herriot had performed some special medical treatment or operation to cure him. In reality, Tricki’s recovery resulted from a simple diet, exercise, and freedom from pampering — not from any surgical procedure.
Q5: In the story, ‘A Triumph of Surgery’, a wealthy woman’s nonsensical behaviour is depicted. Do you think such individuals are merely displaying foolishness or could their actions potentially inflict harm upon others? Support your answer from the text. (Answer in about 100-120 words) (6 marks)
Ans: Mrs. Pumphrey’s behaviour in A Triumph of Surgery goes beyond mere foolishness — it is harmful. Out of excessive affection, she overfed and pampered Tricki, giving him rich food, cream cakes, and chocolates. Believing he was weak, she ignored the vet’s advice and continued indulging him, which made him seriously ill. Her actions show how blind love and lack of understanding can cause real suffering to those we care for. Herriot’s intervention and strict diet finally saved Tricki’s life. Through Mrs. Pumphrey’s example, Herriot highlights that irresponsible affection, even if well-intentioned, can harm others. True care requires discipline, not indulgence or emotional dependency.
Q6: “The only way was to get Tricky out of the house for a period.” Evaluate why James Herriot had planned this in advance and how he executed this plan at the surgery. (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 marks)
Ans: James Herriot planned to take Tricki away because he knew Mrs. Pumphrey’s overindulgence was the root cause of his illness. At the surgery, he gave Tricki no food for two days, only water, and allowed him to play freely with other dogs. Gradually, Tricki regained strength and health naturally.
Previous Year Questions 2024
Q1: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (CBSE 2024)
The expected cell came within a few days. Mrs. Pumphrey was distraught. Tricki would eat nothing. He refused even his favorite dishes, and besides, he had bouts of vomiting. He spent all of his time lying on a rug panting. He didn’t want to go for walks, didn’t want to do anything. I had made my plans in advance. The only way was to get Tricki out of the house for a period. I suggested he be hospitalized for about a fortnight to be kept under observation.
(A) Which of the following is not a reason why Mr. Herriot thinks Tricki needs to be taken out of the house for a period? (a) He wanted to keep Tricki away from Mrs. Pumphrey. (b) He wanted to keep Tricki under observation. (c) He wanted to experiment on Tricki. (d) He wanted to improve Tricki’s health.
Ans: (c) He wanted to do an experiment on Tricki Mr. Herriot’s primary reasons for taking Tricki out were to observe him and improve his health, not to conduct an experiment on him.
(B) What was the main reason for Mrs. Pumphrey to be distraught? Answer in about 40 words.
Ans: Mrs. Pumphrey was distraught because her dog, Tricki, was very ill. He refused to eat, even his favourite foods, and experienced vomiting. Tricki spent his time lying on the rug, panting, and showed no interest in walks or play, causing Mrs. Pumphrey great worry.
(C) State True or False: When Mr. Herriot says, “I had made my plans in advance,” he actually means he had already seen this trauma coming for Tricki.
Ans: True Mr. Herriot anticipated Tricki’s health issues due to overindulgence by Mrs. Pumphrey and had prepared a plan for Tricki’s recovery.
(D) Which of the following best describes Mrs. Pumphrey? (a) unkind and inconsiderate (b) impractical but compassionate (c) anxious and ambitious (d) fearful but confident
Ans: (b) impractical but compassionate Mrs. Pumphrey is compassionate towards Tricki, but her impractical approach to caring for him, such as overfeeding, led to his health issues.
Q2: What does Mr. Herriot mean by “happy period” for himself and his partners? Explain. (CBSE 2024)
Ans: The happy period was the time when the surgery was flooded with delicacies sent by Mrs Pumphrey. She sent in a lot of items like eggs, wine and brandy for Tricki. However, the doctor did not feed the entire stuff to Tricki. Instead, the entire surgery had lavish feasts and enjoyed.
Q3: “We are often over-indulgent towards people we care about.” Explain with reference to the context of the story “A Triumph of Surgery”. (CBSE 2024)
Ans: In the story we see the mistress Mrs. Pumphrey shows a lot of affection towards her pet. Her excessive pampering leads to an overweight and lethargic Tricki. This shows how our affection can cloud our rationality and lead to our own destruction. One has to balance love and wisdom to ensure a healthy pet.
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Previous Year Questions 2023
Q4:Why was Mr. Herriot shocked at Tricki’s appearance? (2023)
Ans: Mr. Herriot was shocked at Tricki’s appearance because the dog had become overweight. Mr. Herriot compared the dog to a bloated sausage with a leg at each corner. The dog’s eyes were bloodshot and rheumy, stared straight ahead and his tongue lolled from his jaws. It made Mr. Herriot worried about the Tricki.
Ans: Mrs. Pumphrey was a young, rich, and well-to-do lady. She pampered her pet dog, Tricki. She used to spend on the well-being and maintenance of her pet. Once she overfed her dog by giving him malt, cod-liver oil, fruits and vegetables, and what not. That dog also loved to eat sweets, ice-creams, and chocolates. So, she couldn’t be strict and deny him the sweet treats. She gave into Tricki’s greedy demands. She was worried when her dog became listless. She could not live without him.
Q6: What was Mr. Herriot’s strict advice? Did Mrs. Pumphrey agree to his advice? (Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2023)
Ans: Mr. Herriot’s strict advice to Mrs. Pumphrey was to restrain from giving her pet dog Tricki, unnecessary rich diet that would cause him serious illness and to give him plenty of exercises. No, Mrs. Pumphrey did not agree to his advice as she continued spoiling her dog’s health by giving him rich food things like malt, cod liver, cupcakes, etc. and no exercise.
Previous Year Questions 2022
Q7: Dr. Herriot knew his patients as well as their owners really well. Discuss. (2022-23)
Ans: James Herriot treats Tricki just like an overweight dog should be treated. He cuts down his food intake and keeps him under strict observation for the initial days at the hospital. He gradually increases Tricki’s food and denies him the additional treats sent by Mrs. Pumphrey for him. Mr. Herriot sets Tricki free to run and play with the other dogs in the hospital for physical exercise to improve his health. This proves that Dr. Herriot knew his patient as well as their owners really well.
Also read: Practice Questions: A Triumph of Surgery
Previous Year Questions 2021
Q8: Mrs Pumphrey as a pet owner was: (Term I, 2021-22) (i) indulgent. (ii) carefree. (iii) rich. (iv) foolish. Choose the correct option: (a) (i) and (ii) (b) (ii) and (iii) (c) (ii) and (iv) (d) (i) and (iv)
Ans: (d) Mrs. Pumphrey, as a pet owner, was indulgent and foolish. She overly pampered her pet Tricki by giving him excessive food and treats, which led to his health problems. Her indulgence and lack of understanding of proper pet care demonstrate a certain foolishness in her approach to handling Tricki’s well-being. So, the correct option is (d) (i) and (iv).
Q9:Why does Mrs. Pumphrey not deserve to keep a pet? (2021)
Ans: Mrs. Pumphrey is a good woman who overindulged her pet, Tricki. Because of her inability to control herself from feeding Tricki, the dog only got fatter. This makes him lose his appetite and thus, prone to diseases.
Q10: What does the exclamation, “This is a triumph of surgery!”, by Mrs. Pumphrey, mean? (a) The surgery was successful. (b) The mistress could take back her pet. (c) The doctor was a great veterinarian. (d) The planned venture was fruitful. (Term I, 2021-22)
Ans: Tricki was Mrs. Pumphrey’s pet dog. She loved him and pampered him a lot. But Tricki was a greedy dog who wanted to eat anything and everything which was served to him. He had never refused to eat food and used to have meals at any hour of the day or night. He had become sick because of his habits.
Q12: Why was it important for Mrs. Pumphrey to be a little cruel in order to be kind towards Tricki? (2020-21)
Ans: Tricki was a greedy dog. He could never refuse to eat whatever and whenever it was given him. He also hated exercise and these traits led him to serious health conditions. Mrs Pumphrey had to be cruel and deny Tricki his food and force him to move in order to save his life. That is the reason why Mrs Pumphrey needed to be cruel to Tricki for Tricki’s sake.
Q13: Why is Mrs. Pumphrey responsible for Tricki’s condition? (Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2023)
Ans: Mrs. Pumphrey was overly-concerned for her pet Tricki. She spoilt him with lots of ‘rich food’, which wasn’t appropriate for him. She fulfilled all unnecessary demands as well. Even after being warned many times, she didn’t cut down on Tricki’s food and didn’t make him do any physical exercise
Previous Year Questions 2019
Q14: WasTrickisufferingfromanyailment inreality? If not, then what made him inactive and lethargic?(Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2023)
Ans: No, Tricki wasn’t suffering from any ailment in reality. His greed for food and his owner’s overindulgence made him fat and lazy. Mrs. Pumphrey overfed him and spoiled his health to the extent that he had to undergo treatment at Dr. Herriot’s hospital.
Also read: Practice Questions: A Triumph of Surgery
Previous Year Questions 2015
Q15: What made James Herriot expect a call from Mrs. Pumphrey? (Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2023)
Ans: When Dr. James Herriot saw an extremely fat Tricki with Mrs. Pumphrey, he was sure that Tricki’s overeating and lack of physical exercise would lead to his bad health. Hence, he expected a call from Mrs. Pumphrey.
Q1: Engaging in discussions and disputes rarely leads to problem resolution. Support the statement with evidence from the text. (Answer in about 30-40 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: In The Proposal, Chekhov humorously shows how arguments delay solutions instead of resolving them. Lomov visits to propose to Natalya, but their discussion turns into a heated dispute over the ownership of Oxen Meadows. This quarrel completely distracts them from the real purpose of Lomov’s visit.
Later, even after the matter seems settled, they start a fresh argument about whose dog is superior — Guess or Squeezer — leading to more chaos. These constant quarrels delay the engagement and create unnecessary tension. The play shows that meaningless disputes over petty issues prevent resolution and waste time before the couple finally agrees to marry.
Q2: Read the given extract and answer the questions.
Lomov: Hear me out, I implore you! The peasants of your father’s grandfather, as I have already had the honour of explaining to you, used to bake bricks for my aunt’s grandmother. Now my aunt’s grandmother, wishing to make them a present. Natalya: I can’t make head or tail of all this about aunts and grandfathers and grandmothers. The Meadows are ours, that’s all. Lomov: Mine Natalya: Ours! You can go proving it for two days on end.
(i) What is Lomov pleading for? (1 Mark) (a) To be heard (b) Bricks for his aunt’s grandmother (c) Documents of the Meadows (d) For two days’ time to prove himself
Ans: (A) To be heard. Lomov is pleading to be heard so he can explain his claim over Oxen Meadows. Natalya and Chubukov interrupt him repeatedly, which frustrates him and escalates the argument. His main intention is to calmly explain the history of the Meadows’ ownership, but the constant shouting makes it impossible for him to do so.
(ii) What effect does the following sentence have on Natalya? Why? ‘The peasants of your father’s grandfather …….. used to bake bricks for my aunt’s grandmother.’ (2 Marks) (a) It calms Natalya by clarifying ownership. (b) It angers Natalya by implying her family’s inferiority. (c) It confuses Natalya about the Meadows’ history. (d) It reassures Natalya of their mutual understanding.
Ans: (B) It angers Natalya by implying her family’s inferiority. Natalya becomes furious because the statement suggests that her ancestors’ peasants worked for Lomov’s family, making it seem like her family was of lower status. This hurts her pride and fuels the argument, as she feels insulted. Instead of calming the situation, Lomov’s remark makes the quarrel more intense.
Q3: Fill in the blank with the correct word from the bracket: The use of the phrase ‘can’t make head or tail’ adds to a sense of __________ (confusion/realization) to the extract. (1 Mark) (a) Confusion (b) Realization
Ans: (A) Confusion. This phrase shows that the characters are completely lost in the argument and are unable to understand each other’s points. It highlights the chaotic nature of the quarrel and adds to the humor of the scene.
Q4: What is Lomov trying to prove? (1 Mark) (a) That he is physically fit for marriage (b) That Oxen Meadows belong to his family (c) That his dog Squeezer is superior (d) That Natalya’s family owes him money
Ans: (B) That Oxen Meadows belong to his family. Lomov is trying to prove that Oxen Meadows legally and historically belong to his family. He mentions that his aunt’s grandmother had given the Meadows to Natalya’s father’s peasants only for temporary use, not as a gift. His entire argument is focused on defending his family’s ownership of the land.
Q5: Comment on the significance of the title ‘The Proposal’ in the play. Provide two examples from the play to support your explanation. (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 marks)
Ans: The title The Proposal is significant because the play revolves around Lomov’s attempt to propose marriage to Natalya. However, the actual proposal keeps getting delayed due to their petty quarrels.
For example, Lomov’s first attempt at proposing is interrupted by a long argument about the ownership of Oxen Meadows. Later, when the proposal is finally about to be discussed again, they start fighting over whose dog is better — Guess or Squeezer. These quarrels create humor but also show how people often let trivial issues overshadow important matters. The title highlights the irony that what should have been a simple marriage proposal turns into a series of comical disputes.
Previous Year Questions 2024
Q1: Justify the title of the play “The Proposal’ with reference to the characters and plot. (CBSE 2024)
Ans: The title of the play ‘The Proposal’ is very appropriate. A young man, Lomov wants to propose Natalya for marriage. He goes to her house for the same. Being confused, he doesn’t propose at once. He beats about the bush. He speaks irrelevantly. As Natalya doesn’t know that he has come to propose her, she thinks that he has come to claim oxen meadows as his own and she starts quarrelling. This results in a series of fights between both of them. After her father Chubukov reconciles; Natalya comes to know that Lomov has come to propose to her. Then at once she forgets the issue of fighting. Then the proposal is made and accepted. Finally, they get engaged.
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Previous Year Questions 2023
Q2: Read the extract given below and attempt the questions that follow. (2023) Lemov: But you can see from the documents, honoured Natalya Stepanovna. Oxen Meadows, its true were once the subject of dispute, but now everybody knows they are mine. There’s nothing to argue about. You see my aunt’s grandmother gave the free use of these Meadows in perpetuity to the peasants or your father’s grandfather, in return for which they are to make bricks for her. The peasants belonging to your father’s grandfather had the free use of Meadows for forty years, and had got into the habit of regarding them as their own, when it happened that ____. Natalya: No, it isn’t at all like that! Both grandfather and great grandfather reckoned that their land extended to Burnt Marsh – which means Oxen Meadows were ours. I don’t see what there is to argue about, it’s simply silly.
(i) The subject of dispute was regarding (a) free use of Meadows (b) making of bricks (c) peasants using Meadows (d) ownership of Meadows
Ans: They were supposed to make bricks for her. Lomov’s aunt’s grandmother gave Oxen Meadows to Natalya’s father’s grandfather in lieu of the great-grandfather’s peasants constructing bricks for her.
(iv) According to Natalya, why did Oxen Meadows belong to them?
Ans: According to Natalya, both grandfather and great grandfather reckoned that their land extended to Burnt Marsh, which means Oxen Meadows were theirs.
(v) Fill in the blank with ONE WORD only. The peasants had free use of Meadows for ___ years.
Ans: The objective of Lomov’s visit to Chubukov’s house was to ask for Chubukov’s permission to propose marriage to Natalya Stepanovna, Chubukov’s daughter.
Q4: Write a brief character sketch of Lomov. (The Proposal) (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: Lomov is portrayed as a haughty, quarrelsome, materialistic, and immature character. He is determined to get married and believes that Natalya would be an ideal wife for him due to her beauty, wealth, education, and skills as an estate manager. However, he easily gets into arguments and is unable to handle conflicts with grace.
Also read: Worksheet: The Proposal
Previous Year Questions 2019
Q5: How did Chubukov react when Lomov expressed his desire to marry his daughter? (CBSE 2019)
Ans: Chubukov was initially suspicious when Lomov expressed his desire to marry his daughter. He thought Lomov had come to ask for money. However, when he realized that Lomov wanted to propose marriage to Natalya, he was overwhelmed with joy and believed it would be a profitable match for his daughter.
Previous Year Questions 2018
Q6: Read the extract given below and answer the question that follows: “But, please, Stephen Stepanovitch, how can they be yours? Do be a reasonable man! My aunt’s grandmother gave the Meadows for the temporary and free use of your grandfather’s peasants. The peasants used the land for forty years and got accustomed to it as if it was their own, when it happened that… (2018)
Ans: The argument about Oxen Meadows starts when Lomov claims that the meadows belong to him. Natalya contradicts him and claims that the meadows belong to her family. This disagreement over ownership leads to a heated argument between them.
Q8: Read the passage given below and answer the questions that follow: “Please don’t shout! You can shout yourself hoarse in your own house but here I must ask you to restrain yourself!” (Delhi 2017)
Ans: In this context, ‘ball’ refers to a formal party for dancing.
Q10: The court? You can take it to court, and all that! You can! I know you; you’re on the look-out for a chance to go to court and all that. (Foreign 2017)
Ans: The first fight between Lomov and Natalya occurs when Lomov comes to propose to her. They start arguing over the ownership of Oxen Meadows. Lomov claims that his aunt’s grandmother gave the meadows to Natalya’s grandfather’s peasants for temporary and free use. Natalya, however, contradicts him and insists that the meadows belong to her family. The argument escalates as they both become more stubborn and refuse to back down. The fight becomes heated and endless, with neither willing to compromise or listen to the other.
Q12: Arguments and disputes seldom solve a problem. Describe the dispute between Natalya and Lomov over the dogs and their superiority. (Foreign 2016)
Ans: Natalya and Lomov engage in a dispute over the superiority of their dogs. Lomov claims that his dog, Guess, is a first-rate dog despite being lame. He lists the positive qualities of Guess such as being purebred, firm on his feet, and having well-sprung ribs. However, Natalya disagrees and argues that her dog, Squeezer, is better. She believes that Squeezer is a high pedigree and healthier than Guess. The dispute continues with both Natalya and Lomov fiercely defending their dogs and refusing to concede to the other’s viewpoint.
Q13: Why does Chubukov suspect Lomov when he comes to his house? (AI 2016)
Ans: Chubukov suspects Lomov when he comes to his house because Lomov had previously asked Chubukov for financial help. Chubukov thinks that Lomov might be coming to ask for money again and is initially suspicious of his intentions.
Q14: They only come to five dessiatins, and are worth perhaps 300 roubles, but I can’t stand unfairness. Say what you will, I can’t stand unfairness. (Delhi 2016)
Ans: ‘Unfairness’ is the word that means ‘not based on what is just.’
Q15: There’s nothing to argue about. You see my aunt’s grandmother gave the free use of these Meadows in perpetuity to the peasants of your father’s grandfather, in return for which they were to make bricks for her. (Foreign 2016)
Ans: Lomov’s aunt’s grandmother gave the meadows to the peasants of Natalya’s father’s grandfather for free use. It was in return for the peasants making bricks for her.
Ans: ‘Perpetuity’ means a state of lasting for an indefinite period or for all times.
Also read: Worksheet: The Proposal
Previous Year Questions 2015
Q16: Chekov has used humor and exaggeration in the play to comment on courtship in his times. Illustrate with examples from the lesson, The Proposal.’ Also mention the values, you think, any healthy relationship requires. (AI 2015)
Ans: Chekov utilizes humor and exaggeration in the play “The Proposal” to comment on courtship in his times. One example is the exaggerated reactions and arguments that arise between Lomov and Natalya. They engage in endless disputes over trivial matters such as the ownership of Oxen Meadows and the superiority of their dogs. These arguments are exaggerated to the point of absurdity, highlighting the comedic elements of the play. In terms of values required for a healthy relationship, communication, understanding, and compromise are essential. Lomov and Natalya’s relationship lacks these values as they constantly argue and refuse to listen to each other. Additionally, respect, trust, and support are crucial for a healthy relationship, but these elements are lacking in Lomov and Natalya’s interactions. Chekov’s use of humor and exaggeration serves to highlight the flaws in their courtship and emphasize the importance of these values in fostering a healthy relationship.
Previous Year Questions 2014
Q17: “Don’t excite yourself, my precious one. Allow me. Your Guess certainly has his good points. He’s purebred, firm on his feet, has well-sprung ribs, and all that. But, my dear man, if you want to know the truth, that dog has two defects; he’s old and he’s short in the muzzle.” (Delhi 2014)
(a) Who is the speaker here? Who is he speaking to?
Ans: He is going to call Natalya so that Lomov can propose to her for marriage.
Q19: “I’ve been hoping for it for a long time. It’s been my continual desire. [Sheds a tear] And I’ve always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son. May God give you both — His help and His love and so on, and so much hope…” (Foreign 2014)
(a) Who is the speaker here? Who is he talking to?
Q1: Read the following extract and answer the questions: “I heard an old religious man But yesternight declare That he had found a text to prove That only God, my dear, Could love you for yourself alone And not your yellow hair.”
(i) Complete the sentence appropriately: The speaker addresses the person he is speaking to as “my dear” because _________ . (1 Mark)
Ans: The speaker uses “my dear” to express affection and familiarity with Anne Gregory, making the conversation personal and gentle while sharing a deep truth about love and beauty.
(ii) The poet mentions “yellow hair”. What is its significance in the context of the statement? Answer in about 40 words. (2 Marks)
Ans: “Yellow hair” represents Anne Gregory’s physical beauty. The speaker says that men usually admire her for her looks, not for who she truly is. It highlights how human love is often based on outward appearance rather than inner qualities.
(iii) Fill in the blank with the correct word from the brackets. The poet suggests that God’s love in comparison to that of a human being is _____________ (selfish/selfless). (1 Mark)
Ans: Selfless. The poet suggests that God’s love in comparison to that of a human being is selfless. God loves people for their true inner self, not for external features like beauty, hair colour, or physical appearance.
(iv): As per the above extract, what attributes does God not love a person for? Select the correct option. (1 Mark) 1. Wealth 2. Physical appearance 3. Intelligence 4. Inner qualities 5. Youth (a) 1 and 4 (b) 3, 4, and 5 (c) 2 and 4 (d) Only 4
Ans: (C) 2 and 4. The extract states that only God loves Anne “for herself alone” and not her “yellow hair,” indicating that God does not value physical appearance (2). Inner qualities (4) are what God loves, as they represent the true self, unlike wealth, intelligence, or youth, which are not mentioned.
Q2: The idea of beauty is a one-dimensional cultural conception or one that has been created by human beings themselves. Comment on the statement with reference to the conventional ideas of beauty in the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’. (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 marks)
Ans: The poem shows that society often values beauty only in terms of outer appearance, like Anne’s golden hair. This creates a narrow, one-dimensional idea of beauty. Yeats challenges this by contrasting human love, which is based on such appearances, with God’s love, which is pure and values the person’s true inner self.
Q3: How does the poet present the concept of beauty in the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’? (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 marks)
Ans: Yeats presents beauty as external and temporary, symbolised by Anne’s yellow hair. He shows that human love is mostly attracted to such outer beauty. However, through the religious man’s words, he explains that only God loves people for who they truly are, beyond their looks. This highlights the difference between superficial human love and divine, unconditional love.
Previous Year Questions 2023
Q1: In the poem for Anne Gregory, Anne Gregory’s suggestion to dye her hair serves two main purposes. What are these? [CBSE Practice Set-2 2023]
Present your response this way: One purpose is ………….. Another purpose is ……………. .
Ans: In the poem, Anne Gregory’s suggestion to dye her hair serves two main purposes:
Firstly, it aims to gain genuine love by indicating that she can change her hair colour, encouraging young men to love her for her inner self rather than just her yellow hair.
Secondly, it seeks to prove a point to the speaker, who doubts that anyone would love her for anything other than her external beauty.
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Previous Year Questions 2022
Q2: . Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: But I can get a hair-dye And set such colour there, Brown, or black, or carrot, That young men in despair May love me for myself alone And not my yellow hair.”
Select the sentence in which the word ‘set’ is used in the same manner as in line 2 of the extract. [CBSE SQP 2022]
(a) I want to set him up and get my work done this time. (b) Do you have another set of the books that I can read? (c) The dessert needs to set for two hours before being served. (d) The set for the school play looked quite grand.
Ans: (c)The dessert needs to set for two hours before being served.
Previous Year Questions 2020
Q3: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follows: (2020) “Never shall a young man, Thrown into despair By those great honey-coloured Ramparts at your ear, Love you for yourself alone And not your yellow hair.”
(a) The lady’s hair is compared to _____. (i) ramparts (ii) ears (iii) honey (iv) despair
Ans: (i) The poet uses the term “ramparts” to describe the lady’s hair, implying that it acts as a protective barrier or attraction, similar to the walls of a fortress, surrounding her.
(b) The young man has fallen in love with the lady for her _____. (i) wealth (ii) social position (iii) looks (iv) mind
Ans: (iii) The young man is captivated by her physical appearance, specifically her “honey-coloured” hair, rather than her true self or inner qualities.
Ans: According to the poet, the lady wants the young man to love her for ‘herself’ and not just her outlook.
Also read: Worksheet: For Anne Gregory
Previous Year Questions 2019
Q4: The poet in the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’ conveys that we should give importance to the inner beauty and not to the physical appearance. Elaborate with reference to the poem. (Delhi 2019)
Ans: The poet in the poem ‘For Anne Gregory’ conveys that we should give importance to the inner beauty and not the physical appearance, and this is evident from the conversation that takes place between Anne and the speaker in the poem. The speaker says to Anne that her beautiful looks and honey-coloured hair can make men fall in love with her any given day. However, they shall never look past her outer appearance and take notice of her inner beauty or get to know the real Anne. Hence, the speaker is sure that no man would love her when her looks fade away. They will love her only for her gorgeous yellow hair. Anne points out that physical appearance is changeable and thus, secondary. She says that her looks can change, and so can the colour of her hair, for instance she can change it to brown or carrot, but she will remain the same person on the inside. She feels therefore, men should not love her for her superficial looks, they should learn to love the person that she is underneath her surface.
Q5: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follows: (Delhi 2017) “But I can get a hair-dye And set such colour there, Brown, or black, or carrot, That young men in despair May love me for myself alone And not my yellow hair.’’
Q6: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follows: (Al 2017) “Never shall a young man. Thrown into despair By those great honey-coloured Ramparts at your ear. Love you for yourself alone And not your yellow hair.”
Ans: The word ‘ramparts’ here refers to the lock of hair at the lady’s ear.
Q7: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follows: (Foreign 2017) “I heard an old religious man But yesternight declare That he had found a text to prove That only God, my dear, Could love you for yourself alone And not your yellow hair.”
Q8: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follows: (Al 2015) “Never shall a young man, Thrown into despair By those great honey-coloured Ramparts at your ear,”
(a) Who is the speaker of these lines? Who is he speaking to?
Ans: The word ‘despair’ refers to a state of hopelessness.
Also read: Worksheet: For Anne Gregory
Previous Year Questions 2014
Q9: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follows: (Delhi 2014)
“I heard an old religious man But yesternight declare That he had found a text to prove That only God, my dear, Could love you for yourself alone And not your yellow hair.”
Ans: God’s love is different from the love of the young lovers because God loves the lady for herself alone, while the young lovers love her for her yellow hair.
(c) Which word in the extract means ‘a religious book’?
Ans: In A Letter to God, faith is portrayed as an unshakable belief in divine help. Lencho, a poor farmer, places complete trust in God’s power to rescue him after a hailstorm destroys his crop. His innocent and absolute faith leads him to write a letter asking God for money, showing how faith gives him strength and hope amid despair.
In The Sermon at Benares, faith takes a more spiritual form. Kisa Gotami’s faith in the Buddha’s wisdom helps her move from blind grief to true understanding. Through the Buddha’s sermon, she realises that death is universal and that peace comes from acceptance, not lamentation.
Thus, while Lencho’s faith is material and simple, Gotami’s faith is spiritual and transformative.
Q2: Explore the theme of loss as it is depicted in both the “Ball Poem” and “The Sermon at Benares” highlighting the inevitable nature of this aspect in life? (Answer in 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: In The Ball Poem, the theme of loss is shown through a young boy’s sorrow when his ball falls into the water. The loss teaches him that certain things cannot be replaced, symbolising the inevitable experiences of separation and grief in life. Through this simple incident, the boy learns to accept loss as a part of growing up.
Similarly, in The Sermon at Benares, Kisa Gotami’s loss of her only son makes her realise the universal truth that death comes to all. The Buddha teaches her that mourning cannot bring peace; only acceptance can.
Both works highlight that loss is an unavoidable part of human existence and that true wisdom lies in understanding and accepting this reality.
Q3: “Not from weeping or from grieving will anyone obtain peace of mind; on the contrary his pain will be greater and his body will suffer.” Validate this preaching of Buddha with reference to the story “A Sermon at Benares.” (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 marks)
Ans: The Buddha’s preaching is validated through Kisa Gotami’s experience. Blinded by grief over her son’s death, she seeks a cure in vain. When she realises that death touches every family, she understands that endless weeping only deepens sorrow. Acceptance, not lamentation, brings true peace of mind, as the Buddha taught.
Q4: What did Buddha say about death and suffering? Explain this with reference to the story ‘The Sermon at Benares’. (Answer in about 40-50 words) (3 marks)
Ans: In The Sermon at Benares, the Buddha taught that death and suffering are inevitable parts of life. Every living being that is born must die one day. Just as ripe fruits fall and earthen pots break, mortals too perish. The wise, understanding this truth, do not grieve over death.
Previous Year Questions 2024
Q1: What message might the Buddha’s story hold for those who are in positions of power and privilege? (2024)
Ans. The story imparts the message that death is the ultimate truth and is common to all, irrespective of power and privilege. Every human is mortal, and all power, wealth and relatives are left behind.
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Previous Year Questions 2023
Q1: What did Siddhartha Gautama come across by chance when he was about twenty-five years old? (2023)
Ans: When Siddhartha Gautama was about twenty-five years old, he came across a series of sights by chance while out hunting. He first encountered a sick man, then an aged man, followed by a funeral procession, and finally, a monk begging for alms. These sights deeply affected Siddhartha and made him question the nature of human existence and the cause of suffering. These encounters were instrumental in his decision to renounce his life of luxury and seek enlightenment.
Q2: ‘As ripe fruits are in danger of falling early, so mortals when born are always in danger of death’. With this statement of the Buddha, find out the moral values that Kisa Gotami learnt after the death of her child. (2023)
Ans: The statement by the Buddha, “As ripe fruits are in danger of falling early, so mortals when born are always in danger of death,” taught Kisa Gotami the moral values of acceptance, impermanence, and the cycle of life and death. After the death of her child, Kisa Gotami realized that death is an inevitable part of life, just as birth is. She understood that all mortals, regardless of their age, intelligence, or social status, are always vulnerable to death. This realization taught Kisa the importance of accepting the natural order of life and finding peace by freeing oneself from grief and complaints.
Q3: Why did Kisa Gotami meet the Buddha? How did Buddha change her life? (2023)
Ans: Kisa Gotami met the Buddha after losing her only son. Overwhelmed with grief, she sought help from others to bring her child back to life. Finally, she approached the Buddha with her plea. Instead of granting her request, the Buddha taught her a valuable lesson. He asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no one had ever died. Through this task, Kisa Gotami realized the universality of death and the impermanence of life. The Buddha’s teachings changed her perspective and helped her understand that death is a natural part of the human experience. This realization transformed her life by freeing her from the burden of grief and allowing her to find peace within herself.
Q4: What does the Buddha say about the world? (Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2023)
Ans: According to the Buddha, this world is full of sufferings, death and sorrows. And knowing the terms of this temporary world, no wise man should mourn for its loss. Mourning can only bring discord in life while acceptance is the key to peace.
Q5: Through the story of Kisa Gotami, what did the Buddha try to preach to the common man? (Answer the following questions in 100-120 words) (CBSE 2023, 2020)
Ans: Through the story of Kisa Gotami, the Budhha tried to teach the world the harsh truth of life and death. Kisa Gotami was a lady who had lost her only child to illness. She was so disheartened that she couldn’t accept his death. She asked everybody to bring her son back to life. Later, she went to ask Buddha for help. Buddha asked Kisa to bring mustard seeds from a house where no one has ever died, in order to bring his son back to life. Regretfully, Kisa couldn’t find such a house. Then, Budhha told her the truth of life, i.e., death is ultimate and inescapable. Every mortal has to die one day. This world is full of sorrows and griefs but a wise man should not mourn his loss for this temporary world. Surely, acceptance of loss and death is the only way to live with peace.
Previous Year Questions 2021
Q1: Grief is often seen as a measure of love. Justify your response to Buddha’s sermon. (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: In Buddha’s sermon, he emphasizes that grief and love are not directly proportional. While grief may be a natural response to losing a loved one, it does not necessarily reflect the depth of love one had for that person. Grief is a result of attachment and clinging to the idea of permanence in a world where everything is impermanent. Buddha teaches that true love is unconditional and detached from the outcomes of life. Therefore, it is not necessary to measure love through grief, as love itself transcends the concept of suffering.
Q2: How, according to Buddha, can one obtain peace of mind? (The Sermon at Benares) (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: According to Buddha’s sermon, one can obtain peace of mind by letting go of attachment and desire. Buddha teaches that suffering arises from craving and clinging to worldly desires and possessions. To attain peace of mind, one must cultivate a state of non-attachment and detachment from the transient nature of life. By accepting the impermanence of all things and practicing mindfulness and meditation, one can transcend suffering and find inner peace.
Q3: How does Buddha bring about a different perspective in Kisa Gotami’s understanding of life? (The Sermon at Benaras) (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: In the Sermon at Benaras, Buddha brings about a different perspective in Kisa Gotami’s understanding of life by teaching her the universal nature of suffering and impermanence. He asks her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a household where no one has experienced the loss of a loved one. As she goes from house to house, she realizes that death is inevitable and that everyone experiences loss. This understanding shifts her perspective and helps her accept the reality of death. She learns that clinging to the past and grieving does not bring peace of mind. Instead, she learns to let go and find inner peace by embracing the impermanence of life.
Q4:Kisa Gotami lost her only son, so grief overwhelmed her. How did she learn that death is as normal in life as birth is? (2021 C)
Ans: During Buddha’s time, Kisa Gotami lost her only son, which caused her immense grief. In her sorrow, she sought help from others, including the Buddha. Upon hearing her plea, the Buddha gave her a task. He asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no one has ever died. Kisa Gotami went from door to door, but she could not find a single house where no one had experienced death. Through this experience, she realized that death is a natural part of life and that every person is destined to die. This realization helped her understand that death is as normal in life as birth is.
Also read: PPT – The Sermon at Benares
Previous Year Questions 2020
Q1: Through the story of Kisa Gotami, what did the Buddha try to preach to common man? (CBSE 2023, 2020C)
Ans: Through the story of Kisa Gotami, the Buddha tried to preach to the common man about the realities of life and death. He emphasized that death is inevitable and that every person will eventually face it. The story of Kisa Gotami seeking a house where no one had ever died highlights the universality of death and the impermanence of life. The Buddha wanted to teach people that grieving and clinging to the past do not bring peace of mind. Instead, one should come to terms with the reality of death and understand that it is a natural part of the human experience.
Q2: What lesson did Kisa Gotami learn the second time that she had failed to learn the first time? (2020)
Ans: The second time Kisa Gotami went searching for mustard seeds from a house where no one had ever died, she learned the lesson of impermanence and the universality of death. The first time she approached the Buddha, she was consumed by grief and sought a way to bring her dead son back to life. The Buddha then instructed her to bring mustard seeds from a house untouched by death. When she couldn’t find such a house and realized that death is a natural part of life, she learned the truth about mortality. The second time she went searching, she already knew that death is inevitable and that no one is spared from it. This realization helped her accept her loss and find peace within herself.
Q3: What lesson on death and suffering did the Buddha teach Kisa Gotami in the chapter ‘The Sermon At Benares’? (2018, 2020)
Ans: In the chapter ‘The Sermon At Benares,’ the Buddha taught Kisa Gotami the lesson that death is an inevitable part of life and that grieving and lamentation do not bring peace of mind. When Kisa Gotami approached the Buddha, desperate to bring her dead son back to life, he asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no one had ever died. Through this task, Kisa Gotami realized that death is a universal experience and that no one can escape it. The Buddha’s teachings conveyed that grief and lamentation only prolong suffering and do not bring any benefit. By accepting the reality of death and freeing oneself from grief, one can find peace and liberation from suffering.
Previous Year Questions 2019
Q1: How did Kisa Gotami realise that life and death is a normal process? (CBSE 2019)
Ans: Kisa Gotami realized that life and death are a normal process through her encounter with the Buddha. When her son died, she was grief-stricken and desperate to find a cure. The Buddha asked her to bring him a handful of mustard seeds from a household where no one had experienced death. As she went from house to house, she realized that every family had experienced the loss of a loved one. This made her understand that death is inevitable and a part of the natural cycle of life. She realized that her grief was futile and that she needed to accept the reality of death.
Q2: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow. (Al 2019) At twelve, he was sent away for schooling in the Hindu sacred scriptures and four years later he returned home to marry a princess. They had a son and lived for ten years as befitted royalty. (a) Who does ‘he’ stand for? (b) What did ‘he’ study for four years? (c) What does the phrase, ‘as befitted royalty’ mean? (d) What happened after ten years?
Ans:(a) ‘He’ stands for Prince Siddhartha Gautama. (b) ‘He’ studied the Hindu sacred scriptures for four years. (c) The phrase ‘as befitted royalty’ means that Prince Siddhartha and the princess lived in accordance with the expectations and lifestyle of the royal family. They enjoyed the privileges and comforts associated with their royal status. (d) After ten years of marriage, Prince Siddhartha forsook the comforts and securities of the palace and set out into the world to seek enlightenment and find a solution to the suffering that prevailed.
Ans: In the chapter ‘The Sermon at Benares,’ the Buddha taught Gotami the lesson that death is an inevitable part of life and that one should not cling to the past or mourn excessively. When Gotami approached the Buddha, pleading for the revival of her dead son, he asked her to bring a handful of mustard seeds from a house where no one had ever died. As Gotami searched for such a house and realized that death is universal, she understood that grieving cannot bring back the dead. The Buddha’s teachings emphasized the impermanence of life and the futility of excessive lamentation. By accepting the reality of death and letting go of attachment, one can find peace and liberation from suffering.
Previous Year Questions 2016
Q1: “The life of mortals in this world is troubled and brief and combined with pain…. .” With this statement of the Buddha, find out the moral value that Kisa Gotami learnt after the death of her child. (Delhi 2016)
Ans: The moral value that Kisa Gotami learned after the death of her child, as conveyed by the statement of the Buddha, is the acceptance of the universal nature of suffering and the transient nature of life. Kisa Gotami realized that the life of mortals is filled with troubles, brief in duration, and accompanied by pain. She understood that death is an inevitable part of life and that clinging to the past and grieving does not bring peace of mind. The moral value she learned is to accept the reality of suffering, impermanence, and death, and to find inner peace by letting go of attachment and desire.
Q2: At about the age of twenty-five, the Prince, heretofore shielded from sufferings of the world, while out hunting chanced upon a sick man, then an aged man, then a funeral procession and finally a monk begging for alms. (AI 2016) (a) Name the Prince. (b) What are the sights of sufferings that the Prince saw? (c) Give the meaning of the word, ‘shielded’.
Ans: (a) The Prince is Siddhartha Gautama. (b) The sights of sufferings that the Prince saw were a sick man, an aged man, a funeral procession, and a monk begging for alms. (c) The word ‘shielded’ means protected or kept away from. In this context, it refers to Siddhartha Gautama being protected from the sufferings and harsh realities of the world.
Also read: PPT – The Sermon at Benares
Previous Year Questions 2015
Q1: Why was Kisa Gotami sad? What did she do in her hour of grief? (Delhi 2015)
Ans: Kisa Gotami was sad because she had lost her son, who was her only child. In her hour of grief, she carried the corpse of her son from house to house, asking for medicine to revive him. She was desperate and unwilling to accept the reality of death. Her sadness and grief consumed her, leading her to seek a solution to bring her son back to life.
Q2: What did the Buddha want Kisa Gotami to understand? (Delhi 2015)
Ans: The Buddha wanted Kisa Gotami to understand the universal nature of death and the impermanence of life. He wanted her to realize that death is inevitable and that everyone will eventually experience the loss of loved ones. By sending her to find a household where no one had experienced death, the Buddha wanted her to understand that her grief was futile and that she needed to accept the natural cycle of life and death.
Q3: Why did the Buddha choose Benares to preach his first sermon? (Al 2015)
Ans: The Buddha chose Benares to preach his first sermon because it was considered the most holy of the dipping places on the River Ganges. It attracted crowds of people who were seeking spiritual purification and relief from their sorrows and sufferings. By choosing Benares, the Buddha aimed to reach a large audience and alleviate their suffering by teaching them the path to enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Q4: Why did Kisa Gotami go from house to house? (AI 2015)
Ans: Kisa Gotami went from house to house in search of a remedy for her dead son. She carried the corpse with her and asked each household for medicine that could revive him. She was desperate and believed that someone might have a solution to bring her son back to life. Her grief and attachment to her son drove her to seek help from others in her community.
Q5: Mark! While relatives are looking on and lamenting deeply, one by one mortals are carried off, like an ox that is led to the slaughter. So the world is afflicted with death and decay. Therefore, the wise do not grieve, knowing the terms of the world. (Delhi 2015) (a) What is the fate of mortals? . (b) Why do the wise not grieve? (c) Write the meaning of the word, ‘lamenting’.
Ans: (a) The fate of mortals is to eventually die. They are carried off one by one, just like an ox that is led to the slaughter. (b) The wise do not grieve because they understand the universal nature of death and decay. They know that death is an inevitable part of life and that everyone will experience the loss of loved ones. Grieving does not change this reality, so the wise choose to accept it and find inner peace. (c) The word ‘lamenting’ means expressing deep sorrow or grief. It refers to the act of mourning and expressing sadness over the loss of a loved one.
Q6: Through ‘The Sermon at Benares’, the Buddha preached that death is inevitable and we need to overcome the suffering and pain that follows. Based on your reading of the lesson, write how one should cope with the death of a loved one. (Al 2015)
Ans: Coping with the death of a loved one requires accepting the inevitable nature of death and embracing the teachings of the Buddha. One should understand that death is a natural part of life and that everyone will experience the loss of loved ones. Instead of clinging to grief and allowing it to consume us, we should practice non-attachment and let go of our desire for permanence. By accepting the impermanence of life, we can find inner peace and overcome the suffering and pain that follows the death of a loved one. This can be achieved through mindfulness, meditation, and the cultivation of a compassionate and understanding mindset.
Previous Year Questions 2014
Q1: How did the Buddha teach Kisa Gotami the truth of life? (Al 2014)
Ans: The Buddha taught Kisa Gotami the truth of life by making her realize the universality of death and the impermanence of life. He asked her to bring him a handful of mustard seeds from a household where no one had experienced death. As she went from house to house, she discovered that every family had experienced the loss of a loved one. This experience made her understand that death is an inevitable part of life and that her grief was futile. The Buddha’s teaching helped her to accept the reality of death and find inner peace.
Q2: What did the Buddha do after he had attained enlightenment? (Foreign 2014)
Ans: After attaining enlightenment, the Buddha began to teach and share his newfound understanding. He traveled extensively, spreading his teachings and establishing a community of monks and nuns who followed his path. He delivered sermons, known as discourses, and guided his followers on the path to liberation from suffering. The Buddha dedicated the rest of his life to helping others attain enlightenment and find freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
Q3: The Buddha said, “The world is afflicted with death and decay, therefore the wise do not grieve, knowing the terms of the world.” Do you think the statement is appropriate even for today’s life? Write your views in the context of the above statement. (Delhi 2014)
Ans: The statement made by the Buddha, “The world is afflicted with death and decay, therefore the wise do not grieve, knowing the terms of the world,” is still relevant and appropriate in today’s life. Death is an inherent part of the human experience, and everyone will eventually face the loss of loved ones. Grieving is a natural response to such loss, but the Buddha’s teaching reminds us that excessive grief and clinging to the past only prolongs suffering. Accepting the reality of death and embracing the impermanence of life can help us find peace and move forward with compassion and understanding. The wisdom of the Buddha’s statement applies to all times and can guide us in navigating the inevitable losses we encounter in today’s world.
Ans: Ink, the little black kitten, and Blink, the little grey mouse, are portrayed as brave and boastful pets who claim to chase lions down the stairs. However, when real danger appears in the form of a pirate, they flee and hide, revealing that their bravery was only pretence.
Q2: Discuss how the writers use language to create humour in the poem ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ and the play ‘The Proposal’. (Answer in 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: In “The Tale of Custard the Dragon,” Ogden Nash creates humour through playful language, made-up words, and exaggeration. He uses poetic devices like repetition (“realio trulio”), onomatopoeia (“clatter,” “clank,” “meowch”), and similes (“as brave as a barrel full of bears”) to make the poem lively and amusing. The contrast between Custard’s fierce appearance and his timid nature adds to the comic effect.
In “The Proposal,” Anton Chekhov uses situational and verbal irony to evoke laughter. The exaggerated quarrels between Lomov and Natalya over petty issues like property and dogs make the play humorous. Both writers use irony, exaggeration, and playful language to expose human folly and create light-hearted entertainment.
Q3: Describe the changing reactions of Ink, Blink, and Mustard to Custard’s bravado. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Ink, Blink, and Mustard initially mock Custard for being a coward, calling him “Percival” and laughing at his desire for a safe cage. However, when the pirate attacks, they flee in fear while Custard bravely fights and kills the pirate. Afterward, they praise him but still boast falsely about their own bravery.
Q4: Read the given extracts and answer the questions :
Belinda giggled till she shook the house, And Blink said Weeck! Which is giggling for a mouse, Ink and Mustard rudely asked his age, When Custard cried for a nice safe cage. Suddenly, suddenly they heard a nasty sound, And Mustard growled, and they all looked around.
I. What inference can be drawn from the repetition of ‘suddenly, suddenly’ in the above extract? (1 Mark)
Ans: The repetition of “suddenly, suddenly” emphasizes the unexpectedness and urgency of the situation, creating suspense and signaling a sudden shift from a playful mood to danger.
II. Despite its symbolism of captivity, what leads Custard to have a preference for staying in a cage? (2 Marks)
Ans: Custard prefers staying in a cage because, despite being a dragon with a fierce appearance, he is timid and fearful. The cage symbolizes safety and comfort, offering him protection from any danger.
III. Select the option that applies the same rhyme scheme as the lines of the first four lines of the given extract: (1 Mark)
(A) Through the telescope she saw a star which she thought was very far She stretched her hand and felt the crumple of the sand.
(B) Through the telescope she saw a star She stretched her hand As it was very far But felt the crumble of the sand.
(C) Through the telescope she saw a star Which she thought was very far Her hand she stretched But felt the crumble of the sand.
(D) Through the telescope she saw a star Which she thought was very far Her hand she stretched afar But felt the crumble of the sand.
In the given extract, the difference between the other animals and Custard is that Custard behaves like a coward.
Q5: Belinda was as brave as a barrel full of bears, And Ink and Blink chased lions down the stairs, Mustard was as brave as a tiger in a rage, But Custard cried for a nice safe cage. Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful, Ink, Blink and Mustard, they rudely called him Percival.
(i) What poetic device is used in the first sentence ? (1 Mark)
Ans: The irony lies in the fact that Percival, one of King Arthur’s knights, was known for running away due to lack of courage. The pets mock Custard by calling him “Percival,” but later, Custard proves to be the only truly brave one.
(iii) Complete the following suitably: The word ‘unmerciful’ in the given context implies that Belinda is ________. (1 Mark)
Ans: The poem is funny and entertaining. There is use of vivid description, rhyming names of the pets, light-hearted tone and imagination. The light hearted story becomes serious when a pirate enters the scene and then the truth of bravery versus cowardice is brought to light.
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Previous Year Questions 2023
Q2: What character trait is revealed of Custard when he accepts that the other animals are braver than him. (2023)
Ans: Even though he was braver and more courageous than other characters during the pirate attack episode, Custard the Dragon was revealed to be a character full of humility. Although Custard was known to be extremely timid and shy, the entire Belinda household witnessed his bravery and couldn’t believe their eyes.
Q3: How does the poem ‘The Tale of Custard The Dragon’ differ from the traditional ballad ? (Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2023)
Ans: The poem ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ is not a traditional ballad as a ballad narrates the tale of courage and heroism and are usually not humorous. However, this poem is different as it is a humorous ballad that ends with a parody.
Previous Year Questions 2022
Q4: Give one reason why ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’ is more a fable than a ballad. (2022-23)
Ans: Fable is a fictitious narrative usually with animals, birds, etc. as characters. It also conveys a strong message. On the other hand, a ballad is a narrative verse that can be silly or heroic. The theme of a ballad is an adventure, bravery, romance etc. It is highly musical due to its rhyme scheme. The Tale of Custard the Dragon is a humorous and fictitious story of a dragon named Custard and how he bravely saved everyone from a pirate. The poem may have all the qualities of a ballad but it is a parody. Thus, it qualifies more as a fable than a ballad.
Also read: Very Short Questions: Poem – The Tale of Custard the Dragon
Previous Year Questions 2021
Q5: How would you describe Custard the Dragon? (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: Custard the Dragon is a character in the poem who is initially portrayed as a cowardly dragon. However, he later proves this tag to be untrue by displaying bravery and courage.
Q6: How did Custard prove ‘the cowardly dragon tag’ to be untrue? (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: When a pirate appeared, everyone refused to attack except Custard. He faced the pirate courageously, jumping in front of him and making dangerous gestures. The pirate fired shots at Custard, but he managed to swallow the pirate whole, proving his bravery.
Q7: A ballad includes the telling of a tale as well as a surprise ending. Using evidence from the poem, explain how these features are included in ‘The Tale of Custard the Dragon’. (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: A ballad is a poem that tells a story. The theme of a ballad is an adventure, bravery, romance, etc. The ballad is highly musical due to its rhyme scheme. The Tale of Custard the Dragon has these qualities. But it is a parody of a ballad. The poet shows these qualities in a humorous way.
Custard was always teased as being the cowardly one, by all others.
When the pirate arrived, others ran away to hide
Custard was the only one who stood up to fight with him/who attacked him.
Previous Year Questions 2018
Q9: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (2018) Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful, Ink, Blink and Mustard, they rudely called him Percival, They all sat laughing in the little red wagon At the realio, trulio, cowardly dragon. (a) Who was tickled by Belinda? (b) Why did she tickle ‘him’? (c) Who are Ink, Blink and Mustard? (d) Why did they all laugh at ‘him’?
Ans: (a) Custard the dragon was tickled by Belinda. (b) She tickled him in order to tease or make fun of him. (c) Ink is a black kitten, Blink is a little grey mouse, and Mustard is a dog. (d) They all laughed at ‘him’ because they thought he was a coward.
Extract Based Questions Test: The Tale of Custard the Dragon
Previous Year Questions 2014
Q10: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (AI2014) Belinda tickled him, she tickled him unmerciful, Ink, Blink and Mustard, they rudely called him Percival, They all sat laughing in the little red wagon At the realio, trulio, cowardly dragon. (a) Who is Belinda? (b) Howdid Belinda and the other pets laugh at the dragon? (c) Which word in this extract means the same as ‘unkind’?
Ans: (a) Belinda is the little girl who is the owner of the cat, mouse, dog, and the dragon. (b) Belinda and the other pets sat in a little red wagon and laughed at the dragon. (c) The word that means the same as ‘unkind’ in this extract is ‘rudely’.
Q1: Amanda and Valli both represent a longing for freedom. Examine the above observation with reference to the two texts. (Answer in 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: Both Amanda and Valli long for freedom and independence, though in different ways. In the poem “Amanda”, the girl wishes to escape constant instructions and restrictions from adults. She dreams of being a mermaid, Rapunzel, or an orphan — all symbols of peace, freedom, and a life without control. Her imagination becomes her only escape from the nagging world around her.
In the story “Madam Rides the Bus”, Valli too desires freedom, but she expresses it through action. Her wish to ride the bus alone shows her determination, curiosity, and courage to explore the world outside her village. Both girls reflect a child’s natural urge for self-expression, independence, and discovery, showing how innocence seeks freedom in its own way.
Q2: Valli found joy and fascination in the simple act of watching the bus pass through her village. What does this reveal about her perspective on life and her surroundings? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Valli’s joy in watching the bus shows her curiosity, imagination, and appreciation for simple things. She finds excitement in everyday sights and turns an ordinary event into a dream. This reveals her keen observation, childlike wonder, and ability to find happiness in the small experiences of life.
Q3: How did Valli manage to gather information about the bus ride she was planning? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Valli gathered information about the bus ride by listening carefully to conversations between her neighbours and regular bus travellers. She also asked a few discreet questions. In this way, she learnt the distance to the town, the fare of thirty paise, and the time taken for the journey.
Q4: Saving money for the bus journey was not easy for Valli. Explain. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Saving money for the bus journey was difficult for Valli because she received only a few stray coins occasionally. She had to resist temptations to buy peppermints, toys, and balloons. Even at the village fair, she controlled her desire to ride the merry-go-round, showing her strong determination and self-discipline.
Q5: Valli did not board the bus impulsively. Justify. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Valli did not board the bus impulsively; she planned her trip carefully. Over months, she gathered details about the fare, distance, and timing, and saved sixty paise for the ride. She even chose the afternoon hours when her mother would be napping, showing her thoughtful preparation and maturity.
Q6: Why was Valli’s excitement on the bus dampened on her return journey? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Valli’s excitement was dampened on her return journey when she saw the same young cow lying dead by the roadside. Moments earlier, the cow had amused her, but now its lifeless body shocked and saddened her. This experience made her realize the harsh reality of life and death.
Q7: How does Valli’s journey to the city serve as her initiation into understanding the profound mysteries of life and death, and how does her inquisitive nature shape her perceptions as she encounters these aspects of human existence? (Answer in about 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: Valli’s bus journey marks her first step into the wider world beyond her village and introduces her to life’s deeper realities. Her inquisitive and observant nature drives her to explore the world with excitement and innocence. At first, she is thrilled by the sights outside the window — green fields, mountains, and bustling streets — which fill her with joy and wonder. However, when she later sees the dead cow on her return, her happiness turns into sorrow and reflection. Through this moment, she begins to understand that life also involves pain and loss. Thus, Valli’s simple bus ride becomes a journey of discovery, transforming her childish curiosity into a deeper awareness of life and death.
Q8: Self-doubt and fear often act as barriers to success. On the other hand, curiosity leads to learning new things. Justify the statement citing instances from ‘His First Flight’ and ‘Madam Rides the Bus’. (Answer in about 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: Both “His First Flight” and “Madam Rides the Bus” highlight how overcoming fear through curiosity and courage leads to growth and success. In “His First Flight,” the young seagull is afraid to fly despite knowing how to use his wings. His fear keeps him hungry and helpless until he finally takes a leap of faith, discovering the joy of flying. Similarly, in “Madam Rides the Bus,” young Valli’s curiosity about the world motivates her to plan and experience her first bus journey alone. Though small and inexperienced, she shows great determination and courage. Both characters prove that once fear and doubt are conquered, confidence and learning follow, turning simple acts into powerful steps of self-discovery.
Q9: Valli emerges as a meticulous planner. Elaborate with evidence from the text. (Answer in 30-40 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Valli is a meticulous planner as she gathers every detail about the bus journey — its fare, distance, and timings. She saves sixty paise carefully and chooses the time when her mother naps, ensuring her plan goes smoothly without anyone knowing.
Q10: The journeys of Anne Frank and Valli teach us the vital lesson that optimism and self-assurance empower women to rise above circumstances and overcome obstacles. Examine the similarities. (Answer in about 100-120 words) (6 Marks)
Ans: Both Anne Frank and Valli show how optimism and self-assurance help young girls overcome limitations. Anne, confined during the war, faces fear and uncertainty with hope and courage. Through her diary, she expresses faith in goodness and remains emotionally strong despite her situation. Similarly, Valli, a small village girl, displays remarkable confidence and independence when she plans and undertakes her first bus journey alone. Her curiosity, determination, and courage allow her to step beyond her restricted world. Both girls challenge societal and situational barriers with their inner strength and optimism, proving that even in difficult circumstances, self-belief empowers women to explore, learn, and rise above constraints.
Previous Year Questions 2023
Q1: How did Valli save money to travel by bus? (2023)
Ans: Valli saved every coin that came her way. She made great sacrifices by controlling her normal childish urges of having candies, toys, and joyrides.
Q2: Why did Valli spend her time all alone and what became her favourite pastime? (2023)
Ans: Valli spent her time all alone because there were no playmates of her own age group. Her favourite pastime was standing in the front doorway of her house and watching what was happening in the street outside. For her, it was every bit as enjoyable as any of the elaborate games other children played.
Q3: What stopped Valli from going to the stall to have a drink? What do we learn about Valli from this? (2023)
Ans: Valli did not have any money to go to the stall and have a drink. Even when the conductor offered her a cold drink free of charge, she refused firmly and said that she only wanted her ticket. This shows that Valli had a lot of self-will and pride.
Q4: The people and surroundings are a great book to learn from, Valli in the lesson ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ learns a lot from others. Mention the traits of her character which help her to learn from people and her surroundings. (2023)
Ans: Valli possesses several traits that enable her to learn from people and her surroundings in the story ‘Madam Rides the Bus’. Firstly, she is curious and observant, constantly watching the hustle and bustle of the street and the people around her. This curiosity allows her to gather information and learn from the experiences of others. Secondly, Valli is proactive in seeking knowledge. She actively engages in conversations with her neighbors and asks questions to gather more information about bus rides. This shows her willingness to learn from others and her ability to seek out knowledge. Furthermore, Valli’s determination and resourcefulness play a role in her learning. She saves money and plans meticulously for her bus journey, showcasing her determination to achieve her dream. This determination helps her overcome obstacles and learn from her experiences. Overall, Valli’s traits of curiosity, proactivity, determination, and resourcefulness enable her to learn from both people and her surroundings, making her a character who seeks knowledge and grows through her experiences.
Q5: Whenever we want to achieve something, difficulties always come in our way. What did Valli have to do to go and ride in a bus? (CBSE 2023)
Ans: It is true that in order to achieve our desires, we have to struggle a lot. Valliammai, an 8-yearold girl, is a good example of this. Valli had a desire to ride a bus alone. To achieve her dream, she had to make so many efforts. She planned the entire journey on her own at such a young age. She discovered the bus timings, stops and its fare from her friends and people in general. Valli’s meticulous planning made her successful in her maiden bus journey. She paid her own fare, travelled alone and returned safely to her village the same day without getting down the bus. She even restrained herself from losing money to cold-drinks or toys in the town as she had to buy the return ticket with it. Valli’s journey proved us that even if difficulties come our way, we can achieve our dreams if we are headstrong.
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Previous Year Questions 2021
Q6:Valli was sensitive, but at the same time she was fearless and quite determined. Explain with reference to the text. (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: In the story “Madam Rides the Bus,” Valli, an eight-year-old girl, displayed both sensitivity and fearlessness. Despite being sensitive, she was not afraid to pursue her desire to ride the bus. She gathered information about the bus by listening to conversations and asking questions, showing her determination. Valli also faced the temptation to spend her money on treats and toys but resisted it in order to save for her bus fare. When she finally boarded the bus alone, she showed fearlessness by refusing help, rejecting free treats, and not talking to strangers. These actions demonstrate Valli’s sensitivity towards her own desires and the determination and fearlessness she possessed to achieve them.
Q7:Valli was a mature girl and ahead of her age. Justify the statement with evidence from the text. (Madam Rides the Bus) (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: The statement that Valli was a mature girl and ahead of her age is justified by her actions and decisions in the story “Madam Rides the Bus.” Despite being only eight years old, Valli displayed remarkable maturity in her planning and execution of her bus ride. She gathered all the necessary information and carefully saved money for her fare. Valli also showed independence and self-reliance by boarding the bus alone and refusing help from others. Her ability to handle herself confidently and responsibly in unfamiliar situations demonstrates a level of maturity beyond her age.
Q8:As Valli, make a diary entry about your experience of riding the bus alone for the first time. (Madam Rides the Bus) (Term II, 2021-22)
Ans: 17th July Saturday Dear Diary Today, I had the chance to experience and fulfil one of my dearest and lifelong dream- riding the bus. I have been always just a spectator, watching people travel by bus. But today, I was one of them. The bus ride in itself was a great experience. Not only was I able to travel successfully. I also managed to return safely, even paying for my own fares. I saw a lot of new things along the route, things outside of my small village. I really enjoyed the journey. But one thing that I learned out of the whole journey was the complexity of life. This was a result of the death of the young cow. I saw running in the traffic. While on my way to town, it was alive and trying to cross the road, which gave me a good laugh just watching the young animal. But on my way back home, I saw that same cow, dead on the side of the road. This left me wondering limited nature and complexity of our lives and how death can come anytime. I did not expect to encounter today’s tragic event. But I am also glad that I was able to experience it too. Good night Love Valli
Q9: Valli is very organized, bold and at the same time very sensitive. Comment. (2021C)
Ans: Valli displays traits of being organized, bold, and sensitive throughout the story. She meticulously plans her bus trip, collecting money for the fare and ensuring she is self-sufficient. Her determination and organization skills are evident in her refusal to accept help from others and her demand to be treated like an adult. This shows her boldness and independence. Additionally, Valli’s sensitivity is seen when she witnesses a tragic incident on her bus journey and is deeply moved by it. This indicates that she is emotionally sensitive and empathetic towards others. Overall, Valli’s combination of organization, boldness, and sensitivity make her a well-rounded and admirable character.
Previous Year Questions 2020
Q10: “Valli’s bus journey was a joyride full of pleasant and new experiences.” Why/ Why not? (2020C)
Ans: Valli’s bus journey can be described as a joyride full of pleasant and new experiences. Firstly, Valli had always dreamed of riding the bus, and being able to fulfill this dream brought her immense joy and excitement. The anticipation and thrill of the journey itself made it a pleasant experience for Valli. During the bus ride, Valli had the opportunity to observe the scenery from the window, which was a new experience for her. She was amused and excited by the sights she encountered along the way, such as a young cow running across the street. These new sights added to the joy and novelty of the journey. While on the bus, Valli also had interactions with the conductor and other passengers, which provided her with new experiences and perspectives. She was able to assert her independence and demand respect, which further added to the joy she felt during the journey. However, it is important to note that Valli’s joyride was not without its challenges and moments of sadness. She witnessed a tragic incident involving the death of a cow, which deeply moved and saddened her. This momentary sadness, though, does not overshadow the overall joy and pleasantness of Valli’s bus journey.
Q11: “Valli was a mature girl and ahead of her age.” Justify the statement with instances from the text. (100 – 150 words) (2020)
Ans: Valli’s character in the story ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ portrays her as a mature girl who is ahead of her age. One instance that showcases her maturity is her meticulous planning and organization for her bus journey. Despite being only eight years old, Valli saves money, gathers information, and plans her trip independently. This level of responsibility and foresight is characteristic of someone beyond her years. Furthermore, Valli displays a sense of self-confidence and assertiveness that is uncommon for her age. She refuses to accept help from others and demands to be treated like an adult. This shows her independence and a maturity in her understanding of her own capabilities. Additionally, Valli’s emotional intelligence is evident in how she handles a tragic incident during her bus journey. When she witnesses the death of a cow, she accepts it as a part of life and handles it with maturity and grace, showing empathy and understanding. Overall, Valli’s ability to plan and organize, her assertiveness, and her emotional intelligence demonstrate her maturity and place her ahead of her age.
Also read: Worksheet: Madam Rides the Bus
Previous Year Questions 2019
Q12: What was the most fascinating thing that Valli saw on the street? (CBSE 2019)
Ans: The most fascinating thing that Valli saw on the street was the sight of the bus which travelled from her village to the nearest town. The bus was filled with a new set of passengers each time. Watching the bus come and go was a source of unending joy for Valli. She harbours a strong desire to ride the bus one day and even plans for it meticulously.
Q13: Valli’s dream was to enjoy a ride on the bus to the nearest town. What preparations did she make to realize her dream? (Al 2019)
Ans: Valli made several preparations to realize her dream of enjoying a bus ride to the nearest town. Firstly, she gathered information about the distance, time, and ticket fare for the bus journey. She listened to conversations between her neighbors who frequently traveled by bus and asked questions to collect more information. This research helped her plan her trip effectively. Secondly, Valli saved money to pay for the bus fare. She resisted the temptation to spend her money on peppermints, candy, and the merry-go-round, and instead, saved every penny she could. This required discipline and self-control. Additionally, Valli planned the timing of her bus ride strategically. She chose to travel during a time when her mother would be fast asleep, ensuring that she could embark on the journey without any obstacles. Furthermore, Valli made the decision to travel alone, showing her independence and determination to fulfill her dream. She did not seek help from anyone and refused free treats from the conductor, wanting to be treated like an adult. In summary, Valli’s preparations included gathering information, saving money, planning the timing of her journey, and choosing to travel alone. These preparations demonstrate her determination and resourcefulness in realizing her dream.
Previous Year Questions 2017
Q14:Whenever we want to achieve something, difficulties always come in our way. What did Valli have to do to go and ride in a bus? (Delhi 2017)
Ans: Valli had to overcome several difficulties in order to ride the bus. She had to gather information about the bus by listening to others’ conversations and asking questions. Valli also had to save money for her fare, resisting the temptation to spend it on treats and toys. Additionally, she had to plan her journey carefully, choosing the right time to go when her mother was asleep. Despite these obstacles, Valli’s determination and perseverance allowed her to fulfill her desire of riding the bus.
Q15:Once we decide to achieve something, so many difficulties come in our way. With focused attention we can make that achievement. How did Valli succeed in fulfilling her desire of riding a bus? (Al 2017)
Ans: Valli faced numerous difficulties in her quest to ride the bus, but she was able to overcome them through focused attention and determination. She gathered information about the bus, saved money for her fare, and planned her journey meticulously. Despite the temptations of treats and toys, Valli remained focused on her goal and resisted the urge to spend her savings. She also navigated the bus journey alone, refusing help and staying cautious. Valli’s unwavering focus and determination allowed her to fulfill her desire of riding the bus.
Q16:We want to fulfill our desires. Some temptations always come in our way. We have to face them. How did Valli fight the temptations that came in her way and manage to fulfill her desire of enjoying a bus ride? (Foreign 2017)
Ans: Valli faced various temptations while trying to save money for her bus fare, but she fought against them in order to fulfill her desire of riding the bus. She resisted the temptation to spend her money on peppermints, candy, and a merry-go-round ride. Despite her longing for these treats and experiences, Valli stayed focused on her goal and prioritized saving for the bus ride. Her determination and self-control allowed her to overcome these temptations and ultimately enjoy the bus ride she had been longing for.
Q17:In the modern era, people are selfish and insensitive to the sufferings of their neighbors. But Valli is not one of them. She grieves over the accidental death of a young cow. Thus, Valli’s character brings forth some values. Discuss these values on the basis of ‘Madam Rides the Bus’. (Delhi 2017 C)
Ans: Valli’s character in “Madam Rides the Bus” exemplifies important values in the modern era, where people are often seen as selfish and insensitive. When Valli witnesses the accidental death of a young cow, she grieves over its loss, showing compassion and empathy. This demonstrates her value for the well-being and suffering of others, even animals. Valli’s sensitivity towards the cow’s death highlights the importance of caring for and showing concern for the lives of others, regardless of their species. It serves as a reminder that empathy and compassion are essential values that can make a positive impact on the world.
Ans: When Valli saw the dead cow by the roadside her enthusiasm dampened. She became sad and pensive as the memory of the dead cow kept coming back to her, making her think about the uncertainty and fragility of life.
Previous Year Questions 2015
Q19: Why didn’t Valli want to go to the stall and have a drink? What does it tell you about her? (Al 2015)
Ans: Valli didn’t want to go to the stall and have a drink because she was afraid that she would get lost if she got down from the bus. Besides, Valli had very limited money, just enough to buy a ticket for the return journey. This shows that Valli is a responsible and cautious girl who thinks ahead and considers the consequences of her actions.
Q20: Why does the conductor call Valli ‘madam’? (Al 2015)
Ans: The conductor called Valli ‘madam’ because even though she was just an eight-year-old girl, she behaved like a grown-up. She demanded respect and wanted to be treated like an adult because she too had paid her own bus fare like other adults present in the bus. The conductor, seeing Valli behave like that, treated her with respect even though he did it to humor her.
Q21: Give examples to show that Valli was a good planner. (Foreign 2015)
Ans: Valli was a good planner, as evident from the way she planned her first-ever bus journey. She gathered all the required information, such as distance covered, bus fare, arrival and departure time, time taken to travel one way, etc. Valli also made sacrifices to save money for the two-way journey and knew that noon would be the best time to travel because that was when her mother slept after lunch.
Q22: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (Delhi 2015) “Don’t you want to have a look at the sights, now that you’re here? “All by myself? Oh, I’d be much too afraid.Greatly amused by the girl’s way of speaking, the conductor said, “But you weren’t afraid to come in the bus.” “Nothing to be afraid of about that,” she answered. (a) Who is the ‘girl’ mentioned in the passage? (b) Why didn’t she get off the bus when she reached her destination? (c) Write the meaning of the word, “amused”.
Ans: (a) The ‘girl’ mentioned in the passage is eight-year-old Valli. (b) Valli didn’t get off the bus when she reached her destination, the town, because she was too afraid. (c) The word “amused” means to cause someone to find something funny or exciting.
Q23:“Never mind,” she said. “I can get on by myself.” “You don’t have to help me,” said Valli to the conductor. She shows extraordinary courage in making the bus journey all alone. Taking inspiration from Valli’s character, write how the ability and courage to take risks are essential to fulfill one’s dream. (Delhi 2015)
Ans: Valli’s ability and courage to take risks are essential qualities that enabled her to fulfill her dream of riding the bus. Despite being a young girl, she confidently asserted that she could get on the bus by herself and refused help from others. This demonstrates her courage and self-reliance in facing challenges and taking risks. To fulfill one’s dream, it is crucial to have the ability and courage to step out of one’s comfort zone, face uncertainties, and take risks. Valli’s example inspires us to embrace courage and take bold steps towards achieving our goals, even if it means venturing into the unknown.
Also read: Worksheet: Madam Rides the Bus
Previous Year Questions 2014
Q24: Give examples from the text to show that Valli was a meticulous planner. (CBSE 2014)
Ans: Valli was a meticulous planner, as seen in how she planned her first bus journey. She gathered all the necessary information, including the distance covered, bus fare, arrival and departure times, and the duration of the journey. She also saved money for the round trip and chose the best time to travel based on her mother’s schedule.
Q25: How can you say that the conductor was a good-natured jolly fellow? Support your answer with examples. (Foreign 2014)
Ans: The conductor can be considered a good-natured jolly fellow because he treated Valli with respect and humor. Despite her young age, Valli demanded to be treated like an adult and paid her own bus fare. The conductor, recognizing Valli’s confidence and maturity, called her ‘madam’ and treated her respectfully.
Q26: Why does Valli stand upon the seat? What does she see now? (Delhi 2014)
Ans: Valli stands upon the seat to get a better view of the city. From there, she sees the tall buildings, the shops, the people, and the traffic. This elevated perspective allows her to take in the sights and experience the thrill of being in a bustling city.
Q27: Why does the conductor refer to Valli as ‘Madam’? (Delhi 2014)
Ans: The conductor refers to Valli as ‘madam’ because even though she is just an eight-year-old girl, she behaves like a grown-up. Valli demands respect and wants to be treated like an adult because she has paid her own bus fare, just like the other adults on the bus do. The conductor calls her ‘madam’ to humor her and acknowledge her maturity.
Q28:Behavior of the conductor in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ is an example of good manners. Mentioning the instances of good manners shown by the conductor in the story, write how you can make your life happy by observing good manners. (Al 2014)
Ans: The conductor in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ displayed good manners throughout the story. First, he extended his hand to help Valli get on the bus, showing courtesy and kindness. He also ensured that Valli was comfortable during the journey and cautioned her about safety. When he learned that Valli would be scared to venture out alone in the town, he offered to fetch her something to drink. These instances of good manners from the conductor remind us of the importance of treating others with respect, kindness, and consideration. By observing good manners in our own lives, we can create a positive and harmonious environment, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to our own happiness as well as the happiness of those around us.
Q29:Valli was so overcome with sadness to see the dead cow that she lost all enthusiasm. Do you feel the same way? If you feel concerned about the plight of animals falling prey to the fast-moving traffic, what efforts will you make to make road travel safer? (Foreign 2014)
Ans: The death of the young cow in ‘Madam Rides the Bus’ deeply affected Valli, leading to a loss of enthusiasm. If I were in a similar situation and felt concerned about the plight of animals falling prey to fast-moving traffic, I would take the following efforts to make road travel safer:
Promote awareness: I would spread awareness about the dangers faced by animals on the road due to fast-moving traffic. This could be done through campaigns, educational programs, and social media platforms.
Advocate for animal-friendly infrastructure: I would raise my voice and advocate for the development of safe spaces for animals, such as animal crossings or fenced areas, to prevent them from accessing busy roads.
Support animal welfare organizations: I would contribute to and support organizations working towards animal welfare, such as those involved in rescuing and rehabilitating injured animals, providing veterinary care, and promoting responsible pet ownership.
Encourage responsible driving: I would promote responsible driving habits, such as obeying speed limits, refraining from using mobile phones while driving, and being vigilant for animals on the road.
Engage with local authorities: I would communicate with local authorities to address road safety concerns and advocate for the implementation of measures to protect animals, such as speed bumps, warning signs, or designated animal crossing areas.
By taking these efforts, we can contribute to making road travel safer for animals and prevent them from falling prey to fast-moving traffic.
Q30: How did Valli feel about seeing the dead cow on the road? (Answer the following questions in 40-50 words) (CBSE 2014)
Ans: When Valli saw the dead cow on the roadside, she became extremely sad and pensive. The dreadful event dampened her enthusiasm. Thereafter she had no desire to look out of the window and kept glued to her seat till she reached the village.
Previous Year Questions 2013
Q31: Why does Valli stand up on the seat? What does she see now? (CBSE 2013)
Ans: The canvas blind of the window had cut-off Valli’s outside view from the window. So, she stands up on her seat to take a view from the upper half of the window. Now, she saw that the road was very narrow, on one side of which there was the canal and beyond it were palm trees, grassland, distant mountains, and the blue sky.
Q1: Mijbil’s transportation to England was no less than a nightmare for the author. Justify the statement using incidents from the lesson. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mijbil’s transportation to England was indeed a nightmare for Maxwell. The airline refused to carry animals, forcing him to take another route via Paris. Mij injured himself while trying to escape from the box, leaving it blood-stained. During the flight, he escaped, causing chaos in the plane until the air hostess helped retrieve him.
Q2: What efforts did the narrator make to get his mail from Europe? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: The narrator went to the Consulate-General at Basra to collect his mail from Europe but found that only his friend’s mail had arrived. He cabled England for information and waited three days. He then tried to telephone, but due to technical faults and holidays, his call was repeatedly delayed.
Q3: Mijbil spent most of his time in play. Elaborate. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mijbil loved to play all the time. He would shuffle a rubber ball around like a four-footed soccer player and even throw it high using his neck. His favourite game was lying on his back and juggling marbles on his belly without dropping them, showing his playful and intelligent nature.
Q4: How was Mijbil to be transported to England? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mijbil was to be transported to England by air. Since the British airline refused to carry animals, Maxwell booked a flight to Paris on another airline. The airline instructed that Mij be kept in a box not more than eighteen inches square, placed on the floor at Maxwell’s feet during the flight.
Q5: The inherent instinct for freedom is a fundamental trait in all living creatures. Justify this statement with reference to Mijbil the Otter and A Tiger in the Zoo. (100-120 words) (6 marks)
Ans: Both Mijbil the Otter and A Tiger in the Zoo highlight the natural instinct for freedom in animals. In Mijbil the Otter, Mij shows his playful and free spirit whenever he is near water. He loves plunging, rolling, and splashing around, and even learns to turn the tap himself. However, when confined in a small box during his journey to England, he injures himself trying to escape, showing his discomfort and longing for freedom. Similarly, in A Tiger in the Zoo, the tiger paces restlessly in his cage, yearning for the freedom of the forest where he could hunt and roam freely. Both animals reveal that captivity suppresses their natural instincts and that true happiness lies in freedom.
Q6: The story, Mijbil the Otter has it all – emotions, humour, certain surprising incidents and the freshness of a new and unique type of story. Explain how Maxwell has highlighted these in his story. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Maxwell’s story beautifully blends emotion, humour, and surprise. His deep affection for Mijbil shows genuine emotion, while incidents like Mij opening the tap or creating chaos in the aircraft add humour. The story’s freshness lies in its unique subject — the author’s loving bond with an otter, an uncommon pet.
Q7:Mijbil the Otter is portrayed as an intelligent, friendly, and playful animal who thrives on affection. Discuss how these traits are depicted in the story Mijbil the Otter by Gavin Maxwell. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mijbil is shown as intelligent when he learns to open the tap and play with a ball like a soccer player. He is friendly and affectionate, shown by the way he nuzzles Maxwell’s face on the plane. His playful nature is evident in his love for water and juggling marbles.
Previous Year Questions 2024
Q1: Maxwell decides to keep an otter as a pet. Elucidate with reference to the fact that owning a pet is a life of commitment. (CBSE 2024)
Ans: Keeping a pet requires commitment. The pet is dependant on the master and so, one has to take care of it at all times. When Mijbil played with water in the bathroom, Maxwell had to take care the pet did not drown. Once when he left Mijbil unattended, the pet hurt itself and bled. The author had to change the airline because some of them did not fly animals. During the flight, Maxwell endured hardships due to Mijbil’s recklessness. Thus, Maxwell had to be highly committed to Mijbil.
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Previous Year Questions 2022
Q2: Mijbil and the Tiger, both were looked after by humans. Assume they both meet each other in the zoo and have a conversation about their lifestyle and feelings. Write this conversation as per your understanding of Mijbil the Otter and A Tiger in the Zoo. You may begin like this Tiger: Thanks for visiting me, though I don’t usually like visitors. Mijbil: Oh? I would love visitors, I think. (2022-23)
Tiger: Thanks for visiting me, though I don’t usually like visitors
Mijbil: Oh? I would love visitors, I think
Tiger: Why do you think that is? How on earth can you appreciate these obnoxious people who put me in this cage?
Mijbil: This is how I feel comfortable. That is why I do not despise them and believe that I am safe in this way.
Tiger: How can you feel safe when you’re not in your natural habitat, the jungles?
Mijbil: I don’t think I’d be able to survive in the wild because I’m not as big and scary as you in the wild, any predator can easily harm me
Tiger: I see but they can learn to co-exist. It is their nonsensical activities such as hitting us with stones etc that make us attack them. If they learn how to behave then we will stay out of their way.
Mijbil: I understand your reasoning and am sorry for your predicament. I hope they can learn to coexist one day, but I also want you to be pleased about your circumstances.
Tiger: It is easier said than done, but I shall give it my best.
Also watch: Video: Mijbil the Otter
Previous Year Questions 2019
Q3: Why does Maxwell say that the air hostess was ‘the very queen of her kind? (2019 C)
Ans: Maxwell said that the air hostess was ‘the very queen of her kind’ because she was extremely friendly and helpful. He narrated the whole incident with the box to the hostess and he took her into his confidence. The air hostess suggested him to keep the pet in his knee. This had an impact and made an impression on the otter and its owner.
Q4: Why did Maxwell go to Basra? How long did he have to wait there and why? (2019 C)
Ans: Maxwell had to go to Basra to the Consulate-General, to collect and answer his mail from Europe and he had to wait there for five days. His mail had not reached on time and his telephone line was not working well. Only after waiting for five days his mail arrived.
Ans: Mr. Maxwell wanted an otter as a pet while travelling in southern Iraq. A few days later, in Basra, two Arab men delivered a sack to his hotel room. The note from Mr. Maxwell’s friend stated that he had sent the otter to him.
Q6: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (Delhi 2019) When I casually mentioned this to a friend, he casually replied that, I had better get one in the Tigris marshes, for there they were as common as mosquitoes, and were often tamed by the Arabs. We were going to Basra to the Consulate-General to collect and answer our mail from Europe. At the Consulate-General we found that my friend’s mail had arrived but that mine had not.
Ans: When Maxwell first took Mijbil to his bathroom, he couldn’t resist and went wild in the water. He plunged and rolled in the bathtub. Two days after that, Mijbil escaped to the bathroom himself and turned on the taps with his paws.
Previous Year Questions 2017
Q8: What game did Mijbil invent in London? (Delhi 2017 C)
Ans: The game that Mij invented in London was with a ping-pong ball. Mijbil would place the ball on the high end of a broken suitcase and when the ball would run down the length of the suitcase Mijbil would rush to the other end to ambush its arrival. Then he would do it all over again.
Ans: The game that Mij invented in London was with a ping-pong ball. Mijbil would place the ball on the high end of a broken suitcase and when the ball would run down the length of the suitcase Mijbil would rush to the other end to ambush its arrival. Then he would do it all over again.
Also watch: Video: Mijbil the Otter
Previous Year Questions 2015
Q10: What special characteristic of Mijbil did Maxwell learn after he took him to the bathroom? (Delhi 2015)
Ans: After he took him to the bathroom, Maxwell learned about a special characteristic of Mijbil. The otter went wild with joy in the water. He plunged into the water and rolled in it. Mijbil even splashed water to express his enjoyment. Watching Mijbil enjoying water, Maxwell realised that for otters, water must always be kept moving and must be made to do things; still or stagnant water caused them anger/frustration.
Q11: What guesses did the Londoners make about what Mijbil was? (Delhi 2015)
Ans: Londoners would never guess that Mijbil was an otter. Some of the random guesses were: baby seal, a squirrel, a walrus, a dog, a hippo, beaver, bear cub, leopard, even a brontosaur.
Q12: What compulsive habits had Mijbil developed? (Al 2015)
Ans: While they were in London, Mijbil developed some compulsive habits. Like children on their way to school, Mijbil would place his feet squarely on the centre of each pair of block or touch the iron railing or lamp post. Especially while coming back home, Mijbil would tug his owner to the wall of a primary school, jump on to it, and gallop the full length of its thirty yards.
Q13: What happened when Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom? What does it tell us about Mijbil? (Foreign 2015)
Ans: When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, Mijbil enjoyed himself immensely in the water in the bathtub. He would plunge into the water, roll in it, shoot up and down the length of the bathtub underwater. It shows Mijbil’s playfulness and love for water.
Q14: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (Delhi 2015)
Early in the New Year of 1956,1 travelled to Southern Iraq. By then it had crossed my mind that I should like to keep an otter instead of a dog, and that Camusfearna, ringed by water a stone’s throw from its door, would be an eminently suitable spot for this experiment.
(a) What ‘experiment’ did Maxwell think Camusfearna would be suitable for?
Ans: The phrase ‘crossed my mind’ means that the idea or thought came to one’s mind or was considered briefly.
Q15: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (Al 2015) When I casually mentioned this to a friend, he casually replied that I had better get one in the Tigris marshes, for there they were as common as mosquitoes, and were often tamed by Arabs.
(a) What did the author, Maxwell, casually mention to his friend?
Ans: Maxwell could easily get his pet in the Tigris Marshes because otters are found there as commonly as mosquitoes. Moreover, they are often tamed by Arabs.
Ans: When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, Mijbil enjoyed himself immensely in the water in the bathtub. He would plunge into the water, roll in it, shoot up and down the length of the bathtub underwater.
Q17: Give an example from the text to show that Mijbil is an intelligent animal. (Al 2015)
Ans: Two days after his first encounter with water in the author’s bathroom, Mijbil was seen (by the author) dashing towards the bathroom. When the author followed Mijbil there, he was amazed to see that Mijbil was fumbling at the chromium taps with his paws. In slightly more than thirty seconds, Mijbil had succeeded in turning the tap far enough to produce a trickle of water, and soon enough turned it some more to achieve the full flow. This shows that Mijbil was an intelligent animal.
Previous Year Questions 2025
Q1: Mijbil’s transportation to England was no less than a nightmare for the author. Justify the statement using incidents from the lesson. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mijbil’s transportation to England was indeed a nightmare for Maxwell. The airline refused to carry animals, forcing him to take another route via Paris. Mij injured himself while trying to escape from the box, leaving it blood-stained. During the flight, he escaped, causing chaos in the plane until the air hostess helped retrieve him.
Q2: What efforts did the narrator make to get his mail from Europe? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: The narrator went to the Consulate-General at Basra to collect his mail from Europe but found that only his friend’s mail had arrived. He cabled England for information and waited three days. He then tried to telephone, but due to technical faults and holidays, his call was repeatedly delayed.
Q3: Mijbil spent most of his time in play. Elaborate. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mijbil loved to play all the time. He would shuffle a rubber ball around like a four-footed soccer player and even throw it high using his neck. His favourite game was lying on his back and juggling marbles on his belly without dropping them, showing his playful and intelligent nature.
Q4: How was Mijbil to be transported to England? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mijbil was to be transported to England by air. Since the British airline refused to carry animals, Maxwell booked a flight to Paris on another airline. The airline instructed that Mij be kept in a box not more than eighteen inches square, placed on the floor at Maxwell’s feet during the flight.
Q5: The inherent instinct for freedom is a fundamental trait in all living creatures. Justify this statement with reference to Mijbil the Otter and A Tiger in the Zoo. (100-120 words) (6 marks)
Ans: Both Mijbil the Otter and A Tiger in the Zoo highlight the natural instinct for freedom in animals. In Mijbil the Otter, Mij shows his playful and free spirit whenever he is near water. He loves plunging, rolling, and splashing around, and even learns to turn the tap himself. However, when confined in a small box during his journey to England, he injures himself trying to escape, showing his discomfort and longing for freedom. Similarly, in A Tiger in the Zoo, the tiger paces restlessly in his cage, yearning for the freedom of the forest where he could hunt and roam freely. Both animals reveal that captivity suppresses their natural instincts and that true happiness lies in freedom.
Q6: The story, Mijbil the Otter has it all – emotions, humour, certain surprising incidents and the freshness of a new and unique type of story. Explain how Maxwell has highlighted these in his story. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Maxwell’s story beautifully blends emotion, humour, and surprise. His deep affection for Mijbil shows genuine emotion, while incidents like Mij opening the tap or creating chaos in the aircraft add humour. The story’s freshness lies in its unique subject — the author’s loving bond with an otter, an uncommon pet.
Q7:Mijbil the Otter is portrayed as an intelligent, friendly, and playful animal who thrives on affection. Discuss how these traits are depicted in the story Mijbil the Otter by Gavin Maxwell. (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
Ans: Mijbil is shown as intelligent when he learns to open the tap and play with a ball like a soccer player. He is friendly and affectionate, shown by the way he nuzzles Maxwell’s face on the plane. His playful nature is evident in his love for water and juggling marbles.
Previous Year Questions 2024
Q1: Maxwell decides to keep an otter as a pet. Elucidate with reference to the fact that owning a pet is a life of commitment. (CBSE 2024)
Ans: Keeping a pet requires commitment. The pet is dependant on the master and so, one has to take care of it at all times. When Mijbil played with water in the bathroom, Maxwell had to take care the pet did not drown. Once when he left Mijbil unattended, the pet hurt itself and bled. The author had to change the airline because some of them did not fly animals. During the flight, Maxwell endured hardships due to Mijbil’s recklessness. Thus, Maxwell had to be highly committed to Mijbil.
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Previous Year Questions 2022
Q2: Mijbil and the Tiger, both were looked after by humans. Assume they both meet each other in the zoo and have a conversation about their lifestyle and feelings. Write this conversation as per your understanding of Mijbil the Otter and A Tiger in the Zoo. You may begin like this Tiger: Thanks for visiting me, though I don’t usually like visitors. Mijbil: Oh? I would love visitors, I think. (2022-23)
Tiger: Thanks for visiting me, though I don’t usually like visitors
Mijbil: Oh? I would love visitors, I think
Tiger: Why do you think that is? How on earth can you appreciate these obnoxious people who put me in this cage?
Mijbil: This is how I feel comfortable. That is why I do not despise them and believe that I am safe in this way.
Tiger: How can you feel safe when you’re not in your natural habitat, the jungles?
Mijbil: I don’t think I’d be able to survive in the wild because I’m not as big and scary as you in the wild, any predator can easily harm me
Tiger: I see but they can learn to co-exist. It is their nonsensical activities such as hitting us with stones etc that make us attack them. If they learn how to behave then we will stay out of their way.
Mijbil: I understand your reasoning and am sorry for your predicament. I hope they can learn to coexist one day, but I also want you to be pleased about your circumstances.
Tiger: It is easier said than done, but I shall give it my best.
Also watch: Video: Mijbil the Otter
Previous Year Questions 2019
Q3: Why does Maxwell say that the air hostess was ‘the very queen of her kind? (2019 C)
Ans: Maxwell said that the air hostess was ‘the very queen of her kind’ because she was extremely friendly and helpful. He narrated the whole incident with the box to the hostess and he took her into his confidence. The air hostess suggested him to keep the pet in his knee. This had an impact and made an impression on the otter and its owner.
Q4: Why did Maxwell go to Basra? How long did he have to wait there and why? (2019 C)
Ans: Maxwell had to go to Basra to the Consulate-General, to collect and answer his mail from Europe and he had to wait there for five days. His mail had not reached on time and his telephone line was not working well. Only after waiting for five days his mail arrived.
Ans: Mr. Maxwell wanted an otter as a pet while travelling in southern Iraq. A few days later, in Basra, two Arab men delivered a sack to his hotel room. The note from Mr. Maxwell’s friend stated that he had sent the otter to him.
Q6: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (Delhi 2019) When I casually mentioned this to a friend, he casually replied that, I had better get one in the Tigris marshes, for there they were as common as mosquitoes, and were often tamed by the Arabs. We were going to Basra to the Consulate-General to collect and answer our mail from Europe. At the Consulate-General we found that my friend’s mail had arrived but that mine had not.
Ans: When Maxwell first took Mijbil to his bathroom, he couldn’t resist and went wild in the water. He plunged and rolled in the bathtub. Two days after that, Mijbil escaped to the bathroom himself and turned on the taps with his paws.
Previous Year Questions 2017
Q8: What game did Mijbil invent in London? (Delhi 2017 C)
Ans: The game that Mij invented in London was with a ping-pong ball. Mijbil would place the ball on the high end of a broken suitcase and when the ball would run down the length of the suitcase Mijbil would rush to the other end to ambush its arrival. Then he would do it all over again.
Ans: The game that Mij invented in London was with a ping-pong ball. Mijbil would place the ball on the high end of a broken suitcase and when the ball would run down the length of the suitcase Mijbil would rush to the other end to ambush its arrival. Then he would do it all over again.
Also watch: Video: Mijbil the Otter
Previous Year Questions 2015
Q10: What special characteristic of Mijbil did Maxwell learn after he took him to the bathroom? (Delhi 2015)
Ans: After he took him to the bathroom, Maxwell learned about a special characteristic of Mijbil. The otter went wild with joy in the water. He plunged into the water and rolled in it. Mijbil even splashed water to express his enjoyment. Watching Mijbil enjoying water, Maxwell realised that for otters, water must always be kept moving and must be made to do things; still or stagnant water caused them anger/frustration.
Q11: What guesses did the Londoners make about what Mijbil was? (Delhi 2015)
Ans: Londoners would never guess that Mijbil was an otter. Some of the random guesses were: baby seal, a squirrel, a walrus, a dog, a hippo, beaver, bear cub, leopard, even a brontosaur.
Q12: What compulsive habits had Mijbil developed? (Al 2015)
Ans: While they were in London, Mijbil developed some compulsive habits. Like children on their way to school, Mijbil would place his feet squarely on the centre of each pair of block or touch the iron railing or lamp post. Especially while coming back home, Mijbil would tug his owner to the wall of a primary school, jump on to it, and gallop the full length of its thirty yards.
Q13: What happened when Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom? What does it tell us about Mijbil? (Foreign 2015)
Ans: When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, Mijbil enjoyed himself immensely in the water in the bathtub. He would plunge into the water, roll in it, shoot up and down the length of the bathtub underwater. It shows Mijbil’s playfulness and love for water.
Q14: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (Delhi 2015)
Early in the New Year of 1956,1 travelled to Southern Iraq. By then it had crossed my mind that I should like to keep an otter instead of a dog, and that Camusfearna, ringed by water a stone’s throw from its door, would be an eminently suitable spot for this experiment.
(a) What ‘experiment’ did Maxwell think Camusfearna would be suitable for?
Ans: The phrase ‘crossed my mind’ means that the idea or thought came to one’s mind or was considered briefly.
Q15: Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow: (Al 2015) When I casually mentioned this to a friend, he casually replied that I had better get one in the Tigris marshes, for there they were as common as mosquitoes, and were often tamed by Arabs.
(a) What did the author, Maxwell, casually mention to his friend?
Ans: Maxwell could easily get his pet in the Tigris Marshes because otters are found there as commonly as mosquitoes. Moreover, they are often tamed by Arabs.
Ans: When Maxwell took Mijbil to the bathroom, Mijbil enjoyed himself immensely in the water in the bathtub. He would plunge into the water, roll in it, shoot up and down the length of the bathtub underwater.
Q17: Give an example from the text to show that Mijbil is an intelligent animal. (Al 2015)
Ans: Two days after his first encounter with water in the author’s bathroom, Mijbil was seen (by the author) dashing towards the bathroom. When the author followed Mijbil there, he was amazed to see that Mijbil was fumbling at the chromium taps with his paws. In slightly more than thirty seconds, Mijbil had succeeded in turning the tap far enough to produce a trickle of water, and soon enough turned it some more to achieve the full flow. This shows that Mijbil was an intelligent animal.
Q1: Read the following extract and answer the questions: “The leaves strain toward the glass small twigs stiff with exertion long-cramped boughs shuffling under the roof like newly discharged patients half-dazed, moving to the clinic doors.”
(i) How does the comparison between the boughs and newly discharged patients contribute to the theme or message of the poem? (Answer in about 40 words.) (2 Marks)
Ans: The comparison between the boughs and newly discharged patients highlights a sense of renewal and struggle. Just as patients slowly recover and adjust to freedom, the boughs strain toward light after confinement, symbolising hope, transition, and gradual revival after a period of restriction.
(ii) Complete the sentence with the appropriate option. The imagery and descriptions in the poem create a mood of ____________ (1 Mark) (a) satisfaction and elation (b) transition and uncertainty (c) confusion and chaos (d) pessimism and certainty
Ans: The poet describes the bough as ‘shuffling’ to show its slow, hesitant movement as it adjusts to freedom and light, much like someone recovering after a long period of stillness or constraint.
Q2: Read the following extract and answer the questions. “I sit inside, doors open to the veranda writing long letters in which I scarcely mention the departure of the forest from the house. The night is fresh, the whole moon shines in a sky still open”
(i) What atmosphere or mood is created by the language and imagery used in the above lines? (1 Mark)
Ans: The language and imagery in the lines create a mood of calm reflection and quiet acceptance, suggesting peace mixed with a hint of melancholy over change or loss.
(ii) Choose the option that correctly pairs the two different meanings implied by the use of ‘open’ twice in the extract: (1 Mark) (a) entry point – vastness (b) sharing a common space – great view (c) allowing access and vision – expanse of space (d) advantage – obstacles ahead
Ans: (C) allowing access and vision – expanse of space
(iii) From the provided extract, what is conspicuously absent from the long letters the speaker is writing while they sit indoors with the doors open to the veranda? (1 Mark)
Ans: The departure of the forest from the house is conspicuously absent from the long letters.
(iv) How does the poet describe the night? (1 Mark) 1. dark 2. frightening 3. dense 4. fresh 5. bright Select the correct option: (a) 1 and 5 (b) Only 3 (c) 4 and 5 (d) 2 and 4
Q3: Both Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela and The Trees by Adrienne Rich explore themes of transformation, liberation, and the power to change. Examine the commonality of themes in both the works. (100-120 words) (6 marks)
Ans: Both “Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” and “The Trees” explore the themes of transformation, liberation, and the struggle for freedom. In Mandela’s autobiography, the transformation occurs as he moves from oppression to freedom, leading his people out of racial injustice and towards equality. His journey represents political and social liberation achieved through courage and sacrifice. In Adrienne Rich’s poem, the trees symbolise nature’s and women’s liberation from confinement, as they move out of the man-made house into the open, symbolising reclaiming their natural space and identity. Both works celebrate resilience and renewal, showing that freedom requires struggle and change, whether it’s for a nation or for the self, marking a powerful transformation toward independence and growth.
Q4: Read the given extracts and answer the questions. (5 Marks) My head is full of whispers which tomorrow will be silent. Listen. The glass is breaking. The trees are stumbling forward into the night. Winds rush to meet them. The moon is broken like a mirror, its pieces flash now in the crown of the tallest oak.
(i) The metaphorical expression used by the poet to describe the movement of the trees is ________.
Ans: Adrienne Rich presents the conflict between man and nature through a tone of resistance and awakening. She portrays nature, symbolised by the trees, as struggling to break free from human confinement. The poem criticises humanity’s control over nature and celebrates nature’s powerful reclaiming of freedom and balance.
(iii)What is the mood or atmosphere conveyed by the imagery in the passage? (1 Mark) (a) Calm and tranquil (b) Eerie and foreboding (c) Joyful and celebratory (d) Melancholic and traumatic
Ans: (b) Eerie and foreboding The mood is eerie and foreboding because the imagery of “whispers,” “glass breaking,” “trees stumbling,” and the “moon broken like a mirror” creates a sense of tension and unease. It suggests a powerful, unsettling moment of change as nature breaks free from human control.
(iv)Why would the whispers be silent tomorrow? (1 Mark)
Ans: The whispers would be silent tomorrow because the trees will have already broken free and left the house. Their quiet movement and struggle will end once they regain their freedom in the open, symbolising the completion of their liberation.
Previous Year Questions 2024
Q1: “The Trees” is a symbolic poem and Adrienne Rich has used trees as a metaphor for human beings. What do they symbolize ? Explain. (CBSE 2024)
Ans: In “The Trees,” Adrienne Rich uses trees as a metaphor for human resilience, growth, and liberation.
They symbolise:
The ability of humans to transform and free themselves from limitations.
The welcoming of new beginnings and opportunities.
The journey of reconnecting with nature, reflecting the trees’ movement from captivity to the forest.
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Previous Year Questions 2020
Q2: Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: (CBSE 2020) _______ Winds rush to meet them. The moon is broken like a mirror, Its piece flash now in the crown of the tallest oak. (a) The above lines were written by (i) Robert Frost (ii) John Berryman (iii) Robin Klein (iv) Adrienne Rich
Ans: Flash The word “flash” in the poem conveys the meaning of something shining or reflecting light, like pieces of the broken moon.
Q3: Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: (2020) The trees inside are moving out into the forest, the forest that was empty all these days where no bird could sit no insect hide no sun bury its feet in shadow the forest that was empty all these nights will be full of trees by morning.
Ans: The forest was empty because there were no trees, birds or insects and it is because humans have destroyed the forest for building cities and other uses.
(c) All these days, the forest referred to here was (i) filled (ii) empty (iii) hidden (iv) separated
Ans: The poet is writing long letters probably to keep herself busy in some activity. She does not mention the departure of the trees in her long letters because she doesn’t want anyone to know that the trees inside her house are rebelling and fighting their way out to reach the forest. The trees struggle silently at night to break free from their captivity when no one is watching them. She wants the trees to be liberated and be one with nature where they belong. Therefore, she feels that it is best not to say a word about it to anybody.
Previous Year Questions2017
Q5: What are the three things that can’t happen in a treeless forest? (Delhi 2017)
Ans: The trees are inside the house. The roots, leaves, twigs, etc. all are trying to make an escape from the house. The roots disengage themselves from the cracks in the veranda floor, leaves strain towards the glass, small twigs and boughs move to the doors.
Q7: What happens to the house when trees move out of it? (Foreign 2017)
Q8: Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: (Al 2015) long-cramped boughs shuffling under the roof like newly discharged patients half-dazed, moving to the clinic doors. (a) What does the poet compare the branches to? (b) Name the figure of speech used in these lines. (c) What does the word ‘shuffling’ mean?
Ans: (a) The poet compares the branches to the newly discharged patients. (b) Simile – boughs are compared with the patients. (c) Shuffling means moving repeatedly from one position to another/ mixing up.
Also watch: Poem – The Trees
Previous Year Questions 2014
Q9: Read the extracts given below and answer the questions that follow: (Foreign 2014) The trees inside are moving out into the forest, the forest that was empty all these days where no bird could sit no insect hide no sun bury its feet in shadow (a) Which three things cannot happen in a treeless forest? (b) Why was the forest empty? (c) Which word here means ’hide from view’?
Ans: (a) In a treeless forest, no birds could sit, no insect could hide and no sun could bury its feet in shadow. (b) The forests are empty because the trees have been cut down to create land for buildings, houses, etc. in other words, expansion of cities. (c) Hide means to hide from view.
Q4: Write a brief character sketch of Lomov. (The Proposal) (Term II, 2021-22)
Q2: What efforts did the narrator make to get his mail from Europe? (Answer in 40-50 words) (3 Marks)
