HAMZA ARMY PUBLIC SCHOOL AND COLLEGE GIRLS

DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH
HSSC-II (NOTES)

UNIT 1.1 : THE FAREWELL SERMON

Recalling
Q.1 When and where did the Holy Prophet ‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫ع َليْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ deliver his last
sermon?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. The Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ th
َ ) delivered his last sermon on 9 Dhul Hijjah
10 AH (AD 632). The Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ) delivered that exemplary
sermon at the occasion of his first and last pilgrimage in the Uranah Valley of Mount
Arafat in Makkah.
Q.2 Whom did the Holy Prophet (‫َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ‫علَيْ ِه‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ ) ask to repeat the sermon
sentence by sentence after him and why?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. The Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) asked his companion Rab’ah Ibn Umayya
Ibn Khalaf to repeat the sermon sentence by sentence to the crowd of over 120,000.
Rab’ah Ibn Umayya Ibn Khalaf was famous for his loud voice. While delivering the
sermon, the Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ) was riding on his she-camel, but even
the voice was not reaching to the whole of assembled pilgrims, that is why the
services of Rab’ah Ibn Umayya Ibn Khalaf were asked.
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.3 State in your own words what did the Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) say
about the sanctity of the life and property of Muslim Brethren?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. According to the Holy Prophet’s ( ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) last address, the life and
property of every Muslim are sacred trust to every other Muslim. As 9th Dhul Hijjah
and the city Makkah are recognized sacred amongst the Muslims. Similarly, the
same value, importance and sacredness are given to the property and life of every
other Muslim. So, nobody should be hurt. The entrusted goods should be returned to
the owner without any delay and hesitation.
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.4 What did the Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) instruct the people with regard
to their women?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. The Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) instructed the people in his last sermon that
they have certain rights over their wives but their wives also have rights over them.
They have been given superiority over their wives under Allah’s trust and
permission. He further asked to treat them with kindness, feed and clothe them as
per their capacity “for they are your partners and committed helpers”. The women
were also instructed that they could not make friendship with any other man and
would abide chastity at any cost.
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.5 What did the Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) say about the superiority of one
individual over another? What it depends upon?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. The Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) said that all men are equal. He announced
that an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor a non-Arab has any superiority
over an Arab. Similarly, a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black
have any superiority over a white. He clarified that the superiority could be gained
only by piety and good actions.
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.6 What did he (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) say about Khatm e Nabuwwat?

ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. The Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) said about Khatm e Nabuwwat that he was
the last prophet sent by Allah. He told them categorically that no prophet or apostle
would come after him. He added that no other religion would born after Islam. If a
problem occurs after him, so one should not wait for any further prophet to come,
but to follow Quran and Sunnah. Both are eternal sources of guidance for true
believers.
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.7 What did the Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) ask the people towards the end
of the sermon?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. The Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) asked the people towards the end of the
sermon to convey his words to those who were absent. He ( ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ) said
that it was possible that those who were not present might understand and learn his
words better than those who listened to him directly. He further asked whether he
had conveyed the message of Allah. The crowd roared in affirmative. Then he
involved the Almighty Allah be his witness that he had conveyed the assigned
message.

INTERPRETING:
Q.8 What was the significance of the verses recited by the Holy Prophet ( ‫ٱَّلل‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ
‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫علَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬
َ )? One tradition has it that Abu Bakar Siddique ( ‫ )رضي هللا عنه‬cried when
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
he heard these verses, why? And why did the Holy Prophet ( ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) say
that he may not be amongst his people the year after?
Ans. The significance of the verses was; the religion of Islam was completed on that
day. Completion of any task meant reaching to destination. Hazrat Abu Bakar
Siddique (‫ )رضي هللا عنه‬knew that when achievement and completion came to hand then
the Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ) had to depart. Actually, Abu Bakar Siddique ( ‫رضي‬
‫ )هللا عنه‬cried on the expected departure of the Holy Prophet ( ‫سلَّ َم‬ َ ‫علَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ ). Prophet
ٰ
(‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬
ُ َّ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ) knew that after completion of Islam as a religion meant the
departure time had been close. That’s why he announced that he might not be present
at the next pilgrimage. (Hajj)
EXTENDING:
Q.9 There is only one clause about worshipping Allah. The rest are all about
the rights of men and women and how they should live in the society and their
obligations with regard to one another. Why is there more emphasis on man in
society?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. The main teaching of the Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) is monotheism. All the
followers and companions are properly educated by the Holy Prophet ( ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ
َّ‫سل َم‬
َ ‫ ) َو‬on monotheism. There is no further need left to elaborate the doctrine. However,
a threat is felt that man may usurp the rights of women, neighbours and society. Man
is the ruler of the society and he can disturb the routine and can disrupt the rights of
his subordinates. To keep the society in order, man is kept under more obligations
and stress to keep the social life in good order.
Q.10 What do the religious scholars of today emphasis most often upon? What
has it resulted in?
Ans. The religious scholars of today emphasis most in the unity amongst the brethren
Muslims. Now-a-days Muslims are divided in many sectarian branches. Every sect
considers herself better and degrades the others. The harmony and brotherhood in
society are lowering down day by day. The scholars want to avoid the derailing of
Muslim society from their determined path. The efforts of scholars are fruitful and
appreciable because it has avoided the big damages of Islamic Ummah. That’s why
they emphasis on unity and brotherhood of Islamic Ummah.
UNIT 1.2 : JINNAH’S VISION OF PAKISTAN
Recalling
Q.1 When and where did MA Jinnah deliver his speech?
Ans. M.A. Jinnah delivered his historical speech on August 11, 1947. He delivered
his speech in the capacity of the first Governor General of Pakistan. The speech was
delivered in Karachi to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan. It was a road map for
the constitution of newly born country.
Q.2 What two functions of the Constituent Assembly did M.A. Jinnah refer to
in the beginning of his speech?
Ans. M.A. Jinnah referred to the following two functions of the Constituent
Assembly in the beginning of his speech. The first function of the Constituent
Assembly was to frame the future Constitution of Pakistan. The second function of
the Constituent Assembly was to perform its duty as the Federal Legislature of
Pakistan in the capacity of a complete sovereign body of the state. However, he could
not pronounce the well-considered time frame for these functions to become
operative.
Q.3 What did he say about the first function of the Assembly?
Ans. Mr. Jinnah believed that it was the most important and the prime task to form
up the future constitution of Pakistan. About the first function of the Assembly, he
said that it had to maintain law and order in the country. By maintaining law and
order, the government of Pakistan would be in a position to protect the life, property
and religious beliefs of its people in a better way.
Q.4 What did he say about the second function?
Ans. According to Mr. Jinnah’s speech, the second function of the Constituent
Assembly was to create a complete sovereign body of legislation. If constitution
provides sovereignty to the institutions, it would provide facility to the government
to achieve targets and justice. About the second function of the Assembly, he said
that it had to root out corruption and bribery from the country. MA Jinnah considered
corruption and bribery the biggest curse, evil and poison for the country. He
emphasized that the corruption and bribery had to be dealt with an iron hand as soon
as possible.
Q.5 Which legacy does M.A. Jinnah refer to in his speech?
Ans. The legacy to which M.A. Jinnah refers in his speech is that of bribery,
nepotism and jobbery. In his view these elements are a great poison for the soul of
country. Jinnah wants to crush these evils relentlessly. He announces that he will not
tolerate any kind of direct or indirect favouritism and wants to put it down with iron
hands.
Q.6 What are the Quaid’s views about the division of India?
Ans. The Quaid wants two separate countries on ideological grounds in the sub-
continent. He depicts that Muslims are minority and Hindus are in majority in the
whole area. The existed feeling will never produce harmony in this part of the world.
According to him, the division of India into two states was inevitable and
unavoidable. The division of India was the only solution to the sectarian violence
among the people of the subcontinent. There would have been unrest and disaster in
case the Hindus and the Muslims lived in United India.
Q.7 What does he say about the minorities?
Ans. He says that the minorities must be given their due rights. Being the citizens of
Pakistan, they have equal rights, privileges and obligations. He thinks that Muslims
would not lead prosperous life under the domain of Hindus. He wants the
unavoidable division of Muslim minority to Hindu majority. Thus, the Muslim state
could concentrate on the welfare of poor. He also believes in the religious freedom
of other minorities in the newly Muslim state.
Q.8 What kind of freedom does M.A. Jinnah envision for the people of Pakistan
in general?
Ans. M.A. Jinnah envisions complete freedom for the people of Pakistan in general.
He dreams that in the state of Pakistan there will be no check on them in performing
their religious obligations. They will be totally free to go to their temples, to their
mosques or to any other place of worship they like. The state should be answerable
for, to remove hindrances in his way.

INTERPRETING
Q.9 What does M.A. Jinnah mean by “Hindus would cease to be Hindus, and
Muslims would cease to be Muslims”? Explain.
Ans. Jinnah wants to establish a secular state where the belief of every caste and
creed would be honoured. By the words “Hindus would cease to be Hindus, and
Muslims would cease to be Muslims”, MA Jinnah means that there will be no check
on the people of Pakistan irrespective of their colour, creed or caste. Every religion,
caste or belief is fully free to live at their own chosen path. But every religion is
bound to work for the unity of state. The state will not hamper the activities of
citizens whether they are Muslims or Hindus.
Q.10 Make a list of the fundamental principles that comprise Jinnah’s vision of
Pakistan.
Ans. The fundamental principles that comprise Jinnah’s vision of Pakistan are;
a) Hindus and Muslims are two separate nations.
b) They cannot work satisfactorily on their religious doctrine if they live together.
c) Administratively, the mighty sub-continent may not be taken as one unit in future.
d) Muslims must be given their rights.
He is totally against partiality and favouritism. In the opinion of M.A. Jinnah, the
Pakistanis can make Pakistan one of the greatest nations of the world if they follow
these fundamental principles.

EXTENDING:
Q.11 a. What have we achieved and what not with regard to Jinnah’s vision of
Pakistan?
Ans. We have achieved a separate homeland for the Muslims of sub-continent as per
vision of M.A. Jinnah, where Muslims can live their life according to their belief.
But we have not achieved that glory which he looked forward for us as the greatest
nation of the world. It has remained a handsome dream yet to become true.
Q 11 b. Do we have the Pakistan that Jinnah wanted? Why yes or why not?
Ans. No, we have not achieved the Pakistan which Jinnah wanted. Pakistan has been
the hub of evils like corruption, jobbery, bribery, nepotism and lawlessness. He
wants to crush these evils with iron hands and looks Pakistan as the greatest nation
of the future. But now we are begging to international community for technology,
facilities, comfort, defence equipment and financial support. I think Jinnah has never
dreamt for such a miserable nation.
Q 12 c. Where did we go astray as regard to achieving the Pakistan that Jinnah
wanted for us?
Ans. We got astray at two points to achieve the Pakistan which Jinnah wanted for
us. Firstly, when Lord Mount Batten took over the charge of Indian President on 15
August, 1947; he was the in charge of partition responsibilities too. Thus, he
gathered large favours for India and we were kept at the mercy of Hindus. Secondly,
we missed our target when Jinnah could not serve long for the new nation and he
died soon. After Jinnah we faced a series of opportunists at our Supreme posts, who
had defaulted us in every walk of life.

UNIT 1.3 : THE BLADES OF GRASS

 (By : Stephen Crane)
Paraphrasing:
Stanza 1: On the day of judgment, some little blades of grass were standing before
God to answer their deeds. All were considered guilty but rescued by one of the little
blades. They started to express their good deeds of life with zeal. But the little blade
of grass was standing ashamed and a little behind of others.
Stanza 2: And then God asked what had they done in their lives. The little blade
answered with fear that he had weak memory. He had not done any good deed in life
and if he did so, he had forgotten. On hearing this God pleases and blessed them out.
Explanation with Reference to the Context
Stanza 1:
Reference to the Context:
This stanza has been taken from the poem” The Blades of Grass” composed by
Stephen Crane. The poet shows here a personified form of little blade of grass which
is much humble and obedient. The blade teaches us that how a man should respond
to his seniors. At the moment one should not be talkative but ought to remain
disciplined.
Explanation:
The poet depicts the scene of the Day of Judgment where all blades of grass
(supposed to be men) were standing before God for account of their deeds. God was
angry on them and asked how they spent their lives. They were about to hell but
were rescued by the noble attitude of one little blade. All started to express their
good deeds which they had performed in this world with great pomp and show. They
had forgotten their bad deeds of this world and had no reproach for their bad deeds
in mind and in appearance. There was one little blade of grass who sensed the
situation respect of God, who stood calm and quiet at some distance away at the back
of all. He was ashamed and worried for his bad deeds that how he would be treated
them.

Stanza 2:
Reference to the Context:
This stanza has been taken from the poem” The Blades of Grass” composed by
Stephen Crane. The poet shows here a personified form of little blade of grass which
is much humble and obedient. The blade teaches us that how a man should respond
to his seniors. At the moment one should not be talkative but ought to remain
disciplined.
Explanation:
The poet says that God asked the little blades, what had they done in their past life.
A little blade humbly answered, ‘O my creator, I had a weak memory. I could not
do any good deed in my life and if I could so, I had forgotten it. At present I am
worried about that how I will be treated for my wrong doings of my life’. By his
answer God arose from His chair and appreciated him for this high class of decorum.
He forgave all of his bad deeds and blessed him out.
Questions:
Q.1 What is the theme of the poem “The Blades of Grass”?
Ans. The man should not boast of his abilities and good deeds. The real man is that
who is mindful about his wrong doings. Pride and boasting are disliked everywhere
but humbleness is the quality which can give us an edge here as well as in the world
here after. Do good and care not to whom.
Q.2 What does the little blade of grass say when it is addressed by God? Why
was God moved by the blade’s answer?
Ans. The little blade of grass replies that he has very weak memory of the past. He
has not done any good deed in his life. And if he has done so, then that has been
wiped out from his mind. That was the high degree of humbleness he showed.
Actually, he wanted to pay due respect to the Almighty. God was very well pleased
from his reply and blessed him with eternal dignity.
Q.3 Why does the poet use blades of grass to communicate such a fundamental
idea? Why didn’t he use man to convey his idea?
Ans. Man is proud by nature and here the poet needs humbleness to convey his idea.
Man is silly and always shows his good deeds everywhere. And hides his bad deeds.
Man is argumentative, whether he is on wrong or right. It is very rare that man can
easily accept his mistakes, wrong doings and short comings. Before God such
humbleness was not expected from a common man.
Q.4 What is personification with reference to the poem, “The Blades of Grass”?
Ans. It is a kind of metaphor and is one of the most frequent resources of poetry. It
represents inanimate objects or abstract ideas in such a manner that they were
human. In the poem, “The Blades of Grass” the blades of grass are personified in
such a manner that one can easily believe that they are standing like men before God
for accountability of their deeds e.g. “For if I did good deeds, I know not of them.”
UNIT 2.1 : I HAVE A DREAM
Recalling:
Q.1. Who does Dr King refer to by epithet, “great American”?
Ans. Dr King refers the epithet, “great American” to Abraham Lincoln. Abraham
Lincoln was an American statesman and lawyer who served as the 16 th president of
the United States from 1861 until his assassination in April 1865. Lincoln led the
nation through the American Civil War, its bloodiest war and its greatest moral,
constitutional and political crisis.
Q.2. After reading the first paragraph, can you guess what the Emancipation
Proclamation might mean?
Ans. By reading the first paragraph of the speech, we can guess the meaning of
Emancipation Proclamation that somewhere in 1860’s a voice would have been
raised for the rights of self-determination of Negro slaves in South America. Now
the slogan became fruitful in 1963 through the efforts of Dr King. The Negros were
given the equal rights of citizenship including casting of votes throughout America.
Q.3. How does Dr King describe the life of Negro in the “US” one hundred years
after the Emancipation Proclamation?
Ans. King describes the worst condition of Negros after passing hundred years of
Emancipation Proclamation. He considers that they announce freedom for the nation
but Negros are still treated as slaves, animals and filthy creations. The shadows of
subjection, frustration, misery, differences and poverty are imposed upon them.
They are pushed to a narrow deep corner.

Q.4. Why is 1963, according to Dr King, not an end but a beginning? A

beginning of what?
Ans. All the Negros were given rights in USA in 1963. Dr King is the inspirer of
that freedom. Due to his leading qualities all the blacks were made united for their
rights. Yes, it’s a beginning, because they are given the right of vote only, but are
not given the rights of equality, justice and brotherhood. For this reason, Dr King
senses that further struggles have to be made for completion of their ambitions and
rights.
Q.5. What is Dr King advice to the black people while marching on the road to
freedom?
Ans. Dr King advises the nation, not to disrupt the law and order situation in the
country. To be peaceful, tranquil and should march ahead till they are given the right
of citizenship as of the whites. They must not be guilty of wrongful deeds and should
not seek thirst of freedom in wrongful deed. They must not create the physical
violence but ought to abide by the high values of dignity and discipline.
Q.6. When will they, the Negro, be satisfied or not satisfied, according to Dr
King?
Ans. According to Dr King the Negros will not be satisfied until justice rolls down
like water and righteousness like a mighty stream in the streets of Blacks. And they
will not be satisfied unless the police brutality comes over, the right of vote is given
as is given to the Whites and other basic facilities of comfort and citizenship are
provided to the lowest Negro.
Q.7. Dr King speaks repeatedly of his dream. What is his dream?
Ans. Dr king dreams for the betterment of Blacks. He believes that one-day Negro
will rise up and will live out the true meaning of their creed. He reiterates that all
men are born equal, there should be no difference between black skinned or white
skinned. However, the superiority must be availed on the basis of character. He
dreams further that, that day is very near when all God’s creature will join in hands
together whether they are black or white.
Q.8. What does Dr King mean by this is the faith with which I return to the
south? What faith? Faith in what?
Ans. The Southern parts of America are thickly populated with Negros and they are
treated there with the lowest standard. Dr King has the faith that there should be
equality amongst the God’s creatures. He goes there to awake the real sense of
equality, justice and freedom among the Negros. He is not against the White skinned
but wants the equality of Blacks to the white in all walks of life. He believes that if
there is peace, happiness or struggling hard, so that should be borne together by both
the nations of the area.
Interpreting:
Q.9. What does Dr King mean by cashing a cheque, and a cheque that has come
back marked insufficient fund?
Ans. 4th of July 1776 is the day of declaration of independence of USA. The day is
remarkable in the history of Americans. The day is celebrated for announcement of
autonomy. The constitution comes in 1887 which shows the guaranty of unalienable
rights of life, liberty and the pursuits of happiness for every citizen. But the state is
unable to protect the rights of Negros and they are nor rewarded in the way of justice
so far. In Dr King’s view the country is going to social and moral bankruptcy. An
archaic situation is arisen in America for the Blacks.
Q.10. What is the most prominent structural feature in this speech?
Ans. Unity and coherence are the two most important structural features of Dr King’s
speech. He is able throughout in his speech to unite his thoughts in a way that
listeners do believe in his realistic approach. He is also able to place one event after
another and suitable logics and arguments one after another which make the readers
and listeners impressible. No doubt unity and coherence are the most important
features for any article and speech.

UNIT 2.2 : GLORY AND HOPE (BY MANDELA)

Recalling:
Q.1. Who are the people Nelson Mandela is addressing and what is the
occasion?
Ans: The system of segregation or discrimination on grounds of race remains in
force in South Africa till 1991. Nelson Mandela fights for the cause over the years.
He wins against the racism and is elected as the first Black President of South Africa.
He is addressing the world’s dignitaries on the eve of his President-ship in 1994.
Q.2. What figurative language does Nelson Mandela use to communicate his
profound feelings of patriotism and sense of belonging to his homeland?
Ans. Mr. Mandela is a profound leader, the lover of freedom, equality and patriotism.
He believes in human justice, strengthening the confidence in the mobility of human
soul and sustains hopes for a glorious life for all. He depicts his love with his country
in the companion of several plants as they search for moisture, and the moisture
allows beauty to the garden. Whenever Jacaranda and Mimosa find moisture, they
grow up and beautify the surrounding. Similarly, if the poor and neglected intellects
are given a chance, they can flourish the region. He uses similes, metaphors and
personifications in the speech to clarify the ideas.
Q.3. When was the situation like in South Africa before this very celebration of
liberty and glory that Nelson Mandela is speaking about?
Ans. Racism was in force in South Africa from 1948-1991. During that period of
time, the minority “whites” were the ruler of the country. All the important posts
were the property of whites – Blacks were deprived from their basic human rights.
A black couldn’t imagine just to enter in an office. They were neglected and dealt
like slaves. Mr. Mandela struggled hard for the rights of blacks and was sentenced
to jail several times. Finally, he got the confidence of world community in end 70`s.
With that confidence he remained successful to win the rights for Blacks on merit.
He was himself elected as first Black President of South Africa in 1994.
Q.4. What Emancipation and liberation is Nelson Mandela speaking about?
Ans. The political and social status of South Africa was deteriorated by racial
policies. The country was isolated in all aspects of life. Mr. Mandela wants to remove
the bondage for poor, deprivation suffering, gender and other discrimination. He
wants the freedom which can produce peace and harmony in the area, the peace and
harmony which are everlasting and can provide a base for the construction of his
nation.
Q.5. What does Nelson Mandela mean by South Africa being once the skunk of
the world?
Ans. Before 1991, South Africa was considered a blot over the forehead of civilized
world. The whitish government and the white nation of South Africa had great and
deep discrimination against the black. They were persisted in their discriminative
belief. Due to this negative approach South Africans were isolated in the world
community. All the social, economic and political relations were cut off with them.
Disrespect was found for them in all over the world. Mr. Mandela urges the nation
to come forward with positive attitude and get the real fruit of freedom, be united
and preserve. Not to damage their national dignity and integrity once more.

Interpreting:
Q.6. Considering the South Africa was once “the skunk of the world” why does
Nelson Mandela give his speech the tittle “Glory and Hope”? Glory of what and
Hope for what?
Ans. Before 1948 South Africa was a glorious country. It was wealthy, peaceful,
prosperous and successful country. All the civilized nations of the world used to feel
proud on connection with South Africa. A bad patch came; racism and
discrimination spoilt all those glories. Mr. Mandela is visionary, sincere and
hardworking. He is confident and hopeful that not only the South Africa will regain
the past glory but it will surpass too. Ultimately, they will get the lesson from the
recent past for their glorious future.
Q.7. What does Nelson Mandela mean by “a rainbow nation at peace with itself
and the world”?
Ans. Mr. Mandela is triumphant to demolish the apartheid. He emerges hope in the
breasts of multi-colour nation. South Africans are black, with curly hairs and white,
with brown hairs and blue eyes. That’s a beautiful blend of colours like a rainbow.
He metaphorically uses his rainbow nation for the multi-colour South African. He is
confident that the black and white will work together, will build relations with each
other and will walk together without any fear. Thus, not only South African will
thrive but the rest of the world will honour them too.
Q.8. What does Mandela mean by “humanity has taken us back into its bosom”
who were outlaws not so long ago?
Ans. Mr. Mandela knew the pernicious law, racism and racial oppression which were
in vogue in South Africa. No civilized citizen was ready to accept that terrible
conflict of humanity. The entire world rejects the system, so South Africans are
disgraced. Mr. Mandela clarifies the fact that they are given a chance to rub off the
stain and blot of discrimination, and should prove that they are civilized and well
learned.
Extending
Q.9. Both Dr King and Mandela are advocating emancipation and freedom for
black people of their countries, fourteen hundred years after the Holy Prophet
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
(‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) in his “Farewell Sermon” granting freedom and equality to all
humanity, declared, “a white has no superiority over a black not does a black
has any superiority over a white accept by piety and good actions” Discuss?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans. The Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) declared the emancipation and freedom in
these glorious words in his last address some fourteen years ago. He said, “a white
has no superiority over a black not does a black has any superiority over a white ;
neither an Arab has any superiority over the non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any
superiority over the Arab”. Owing to this saying of Holy Prophet ( ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ),
the racism, apartheid and racial segregation had been crushed in AD 632. But non-
Muslims had no care and due respect for those glorious wordings. After 1400 years
they come to know the importance, when they are beaten in South Africa and U.S,
then they got closer to the of Holy Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ). They followed for their
rights in the shadow of Dr King and Mandela. We appreciate the efforts of Mr.
Mandela and Dr King but non-Muslims should accept the glory and vision of Holy
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Prophet (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) too, who enlightened the candle of equal status for both
black and white in the era of complete ignorance. When the society was not as
civilized as in the time of Dr King and Mr. Mandela.

UNIT 2.3 : I DREAM A WORLD

(BY LANGSTON HUGHES)
Paraphrasing:
Stanza 1:
I dream a world where no one hates other. Where love is dominant in society and
where routes are peaceful for travellers.
Stanza 2:
I dream a world where all human beings know the polite way of living, where greed
and avarice will no longer destroy our spirit and economics.
Stanza 3:
I dream a world where no white or black or any other nation has any superiority over
the others. Where man is free and everyone has equal shares in natural resources.
Stanza 4:
I dream such a world, where there is no poverty and every part of the world looks
joyous. Where everyone has access to prosperity and happiness.

Explanation with Reference to the Context:

Stanza 1:
Reference to the Context:
These lines have been taken from the poem “I Dream a World”, composed by
Langston Hughes. The poet loves the natural beauty of man and society. He is
anxious for the society where there is no contempt, discrimination, greed, avarice
and misery. He wants basic rights for every citizen irrespective of colour, language,
race or religion. He wants peace and joy in every walk of life.
Explanation:
The poet dreams for an imaginary world where every man is pious and does his own
duty without occupying the rights of others. There should have no superiority to one
citizen over another on the basis of colour, race, religion or wealth. He desires that
everywhere in that world, dealings are to be done with love and patience, where no
one is the symbol of fear for other human being. Everyone could walk fearlessly, on
roads, whether that is day or night and whether the roads pass from any sort of land.
Stanza 2:
Explanation:
The poet expresses his thoughts about an ideal society where everyone remains
responsible to maintain the values of life. Where everyone could know the value of
humanity. Where there is no usurpation of the rights of other to get superiority in
honour and wealth. He wants advancement in the society but that should not be based
on racial prejudice. Greed and avarice must be eradicated for the ideal future.
Stanza 3:
Explanation:
The poet expresses his ideas about the equality among the nations. He says, there
could be no superiority among the nations whether they are white, black, European,
Asian, or African. All must have equal rights or the national resources and all have
equal opportunities to get jobs or business. There should be no monopoly of rights
of an upper class. Thus, one can get the fruit of freedom.

Stanza 4:
Explanation:
The poet shares his imagine with us that he dreams a world where there is no poverty,
misery and no scarcity of needs. People are to be looked everywhere happy and
tranquil. Happiness and comforts should be available to every citizen at doorstep.
There should be no monopoly of class over comforts, facilities and happiness.
Everyone has equal right to enjoy his life there.
Questions:
Q.1. what is the central idea of the poem “I Dream a World”?
Ans. Greed, avarice, discrimination, poverty and misery spoil our society. The poem
looks for a world where such harmful elements have been eradicated, and where
love, peace, equality, freedom and joy rule over the world.
Q.2. Do you think such a world is possible? If not, why not?
Ans. No, in present scenario such imaginary world is not possible, where everyone
and every country depress the other to get more rights and discretion. There is no
sympathy in the world for poor, weak, under developing and depressed people.
Jealousy, usurpation reach to such an extent, where we cannot imagine a big change.
Yes, we had seen such an imaginary world thrice in the history. Firstly, at the time
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
of Prophet Muhammad (‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ) in Medina, secondly, at the time of second
Caliph Hazrat Umer (‫ )رضي هللا عنه‬and lastly at the time of Caliph Hazrat Umer bin
Abdul Aziz (‫ )رضي هللا عنه‬. Now the environment has been changed and the world is
getting downfall day by day.
UNIT 3.1 : Lesson From the Battle of Uhud
Q.1. What was the composition of the army of the Quraish that marched to
Medina?
Ans: The army of Quraish that marched to Medina, composed of three thousands
soldiers, led by Abu-Sufyan. It was mandatory for every adult of Quraish to join the
army, which was the nobility of Arabia living in Makkah.
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.2. What in the opinion of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ was the best course
of action with regard to the strength of the enemy?
Ans: The superiority of the enemy was its huge strength of three thousands warriors.
The Muslim's army was seven hundred excluding hypocrites. It was just one of the
enemy's strength. The course of action which was proposed by the Holy Prophet ‫صلَّ ٰى‬ َ
‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫علَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ُ َّ ٰ was the best, to let the enemy marched into the city, while Muslim
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬
contingent would remain in the city. The Muslim would attack the enemy where
their strength was the weakest.
Q.3. What strategy did the Holy Prophet have in mind when he thought of
allowing the enemy to siege Medina?
Ans: The strategy of the war was the best which was existed in the mind of the Holy
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ . He planned that let the enemy besieged the city, so they
would be dispersed in many sectors. Their strength could be divided and would be
easy for the Muslims to strike at the weakest point.
Q.4. What were the two opinions regarding facing the army of the Quraish?
Ans: There were two opinions in Muslims to face the army of Quraish. The opinion
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ was to remain in city and let the enemy besieged
the city. The opinion of younger elements among the Muslims was to combat the
enemy in open at some distance away from Medina.
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.5. What did d the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ decide finally?

ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans: On the day of battle Uhud, the final decision of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه‬ َ
َّ‫سل َم‬
َ ‫ َو‬was; to meet the enemy in the open outside of Medina. And the enemy would not
be allowed to approach Medina at any cost.
Q.6. How did the Holy Prophet ‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫علَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ arrange his army at Uhud in
preparation for the battle?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans: The Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ could arrange one thousand persons only for
the battle of Uhud. Out of these one thousand three hundred hypocrites under the
supervision of Abdullah bin Ubayy withdrew as the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ
َّ
marched to the battle field. The Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسل َم‬ ٰ َّ
ُ َّ ‫صل ٰى‬ َ could march with seven
hundred men which were just one fourth of the enemy's strength
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.7. What instructions did the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ give to the band of
archers who were ordered to take up position on a mound?
Ans: The band of archers was positioned on a nearby pass instructed, not to leave
the position under any circumstances without the prior approval of the Holy Prophet
‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫علَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ .

Q.8. What did the archers do when they saw the enemy retreating in defeat?
Ans: Majority of the archers left their positions when they saw the retreat of the
enemy. They wanted to participate in plundering the camp of enemy. They ignored
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
the importance of the instructions of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ for a while and
speculated that the battle was over then.
Q.9. What changed the course of the battle of Uhud?
Ans: Hazrat Khalid bin Walid ‫رضي هللا عنه‬, who had yet not converted to Islam, attacked
the left-over archers from behind. All the remaining ten archers were martyred by
Hazrat Khalid Bin Walid ‫ رضي هللا عنه‬contingent and the Muslims were blocked from
front and back. That sudden strategy of Hazrat Khalid Bin Walid ‫ رضي هللا عنه‬changed
the scenario of the battle at once. A moment earliest the Uhud day was on the mercy
of Muslims, now went to the complete supremacy of the enemy.
Q.10. What was the confusion regarding the companion who bore resemblance
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
to the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ ?

Ans: Hazrat Mas'aab bin Omair ‫رضي هللا عنه‬, who had some physical resemblance with
the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ , fell fighting and seeing his dead body, the Quraish
shouted that Muhammad ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ had been killed. By hearing this, the
Muslims warrior in combat with the enemy were demoralized. They thought if the
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ had been killed then there was no point left in fighting
the battle.
Q.11. Who took the wounded Holy Prophet ‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫علَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ out of the pit to a
safer place?
Ans: When Ali R.A could no longer see the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ , he rushed
َّ
to the position of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسل َم‬ ٰ َّ
ُ َّ ‫صل ٰى‬ َ . There he could find the Holy
ٰ
Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬
ُ َّ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ was lying wounded in a pit. With the help of other
companions, including Hazrat Abu Bakr ‫ رضي هللا عنه‬and Hazrat Umar ‫رضي هللا عنه‬, he
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
escorted the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ to a safer place.

Q.12. Whom did the Holy Prophet ‫سلَّ َم‬

َ ‫ع َليْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ charge to launch a counter
attack?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans: On mentioning of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ , Hazrat Umar Farooq ‫رضي‬
‫ هللا عنه‬shouted back at the Quraish that the Holy Prophet ‫سلَّ َم‬ َ ‫علَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ was very
much alive. On regaining full consciousness, the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ
charged Hazrat Ali ‫ رضي هللا عنه‬to launch a counter attack against the enemy
Q.13. Whom did the Holy Prophet ‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫ع َليْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ُ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ send his own sword to
continue fighting?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans: On the instruction of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ , Hazrat Ali ‫رضي هللا عنه‬
gathered the Muslim warrior for a thunder bolt counter attack. In that attack the
enemy was pushed back with heavy casualties. Hazrat Ali ‫ رضي هللا عنه‬broke his sword
by using his extreme God gifted power over the enemies. Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ
‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫ َو‬sent his own sword to Hazrat Ali ‫ رضي هللا عنه‬to boost his courage for continuation
of battle.
Q.14. What did Abu Sufyan boast about when leaving the battle ground?
Ans: Actually, it was a drawn battle. In the first hour, Muslims were successful but
in the middle Quraish were successful and the Muslims received heavy casualties.
But the Muslims had not received that number of casualties so far in any of the
battles. Abu Sufyan shouted in boastful tone that they had taken revenge of Badr and
declared that would soon come back for annihilation of Muslims.
Q.15. How was the mistake of the archers a tactical mistake?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans: It was the order of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ and a universal truth too,
that a soldier would not leave his post, whatever the consequences were. As the band
of archers whose number was fifty, was positioned by a mound, which was some
fifty feet above the ground. It was a defence wall behind the Muslim fighters. As the
archers saw the enemy retreat, they scattered. Seeing this, Hazrat Khalid Bin Walid
‫ رضي هللا عنه‬along with his cavalry attacked the post from behind. The few archers on
the post were killer and Muslim force was plugged from both sides. The Muslim
triumph was changed into defeat. It was a complete tactical mistake when the
Muslims could not obey fully, the order of his Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ

ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Q.16. What did the companions of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ learn from
the battle of Uhud?
Ans: The Muslim almost lost the battle due to the majority of the archers leaving
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
their post contrary to the instructions of the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ . They paid
dearly for their mistake with their lives. However, the followers of Islam learnt an
invaluable lesson from this experience and they never disobeyed the instructions of
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ in future.

Q.17. How was the battle of Uhud an extension of the battle of Badr?
Ans: Quraish lost the battle of Badr with shameful disaster. They were one thousand
in number and lost badly from three hundred and thirteen Muslims. Moreover. their
all leading men like Abu Jahal and Utba were killed. A number of men were killed
and a number was extremely, shocking for Quraish. So, they gathered men and
women of Quraish and with their full strength to avenge the defeat of Badr. They
came after one and half year at Uhud to take revenge and to regain honour which
they lost one and half years ago.
Q.18. The wiser ones were in favour of staying in Medina while the younger
ones wanted to meet the enemy in the open. What light do these strategies throw
in the nature of the old and young in war?
Ans: Old is gold. The wisdom comes through long life and experience. The old ones
think and plan with cool minds. They always conceive about the end of a matter
while the young ones are always enthusiastic and decide Over the appearance and
did not bother for the end result. Any matter which starts over emotions, always have
an unpleasant end. In averse of this, a matter which is started after well conception,
stands deeper and produces pleasant result. i think the decision of wiser and old ones
are far better than the young. I think it would have been a better strategy if Muslims
could have stayed in Medina rather to meet the enemy in open outside the city .
19. Why did the Holy Prophet ‫َو َسلَّ َم‬ ‫علَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬ َ command his companions to
occupy the high ground at Uhud?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans: The Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ commanded his companions to occupy the
high ground at Uhud because high post was beneficial for archers who can take
charge of the lower ground easily. Moreover, the upper ground could provide a
shelter to Muslim troops from behind, so Muslims could fight fearlessly. It was a
fine tactical strategy that Muslims could fight in one direction. Alas! It wasn’t
obeyed whole heartedly.
Q.20. Why were the Muslims demoralized at one stage of the battle?
Ans: Quraish kept on shouting that Hazrat Muhammad ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ had been
killed after the martyrdom of Hazrat Mas’aab bin Omair ‫رضي هللا عنه‬. At that time the
Muslims warrior in combat with the enemy were demoralized. They thought if
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Hazrat Muhammad ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ had been killed then there was no point left of
battle with the Quraish.
Q.21. Why were the Quraish unable to take advantage of their short-lived
victory?
Ans: Quraish were unable to take advantage of their short-lived victory because of
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
two reasons. Firstly, their shouting of, that Hazrat Muhammad ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ had
been killed; proved false after a while. Secondly, the tremendous and courageous
counter attack of Hazrat Ali ‫ رضي هللا عنه‬made them paralyzed to take any advantage of
the victory. Not only they could not plunder the Muslims camp but were also unable
to keep captive, the Muslim men and women as was earlier made by Muslims in
Badr.

Q.22 .Why is the Battle of Uhud called a drawn battle?

Ans: The battle of Uhud was a drawn battle because in the early hours Muslims were
victorious and plundered the camp of Quraish too. But the scattering of Muslims
archers gave them a chance to stand at the victory stand. Muslims suffered heavy
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
casualties in that hours and the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ was inured too. Really,
it was a big blow for the Muslims. But when the Muslims gathered their force under
the supervision of Hazrat Ali ‫رضي هللا عنه‬, the enemy was restrained to leave the battle
field. Leaving the battle field by the Quraish without any prisoners or plundering in
hands, showed that they were not victorious in the real sense.
Q.23. If the archers had not left their high post, the Quraish would have been
handed another humiliating defeat. What for reaching consequences could it
have had for the future of the Muslims?
Ans: The archers had left the high post and provided a chance to the Quraish to
avoid another humiliating defeat. The temporary defeat was far better for the
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Muslims. They learnt a factual lesson that a Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ would have to
be obeyed in any circumstances. After this battle the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
َ
lived for seven and half years and during that period, he ordered several wars against
the polytheist but no one could dare to tolerate his saying. Even now because of
that event a Muslim cannot think of, to violate the saying of the Holy Prophet ‫صلَّ ٰى‬ َ
َّ‫سل َم‬ َ
َ ‫عليْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو‬ ٰ
ُ َّ .
َ ‫ٱَّلل‬

Q.24. Recalling your knowledge of the Muslim history, which battle proved that
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه َوآ ِل ِه َو َسلَّ َم‬ َ was right in proposing to stay in Medina and
let the Quraish besiege the city?
ُ َّ ٰ ‫صلَّ ٰى‬
Ans: : It was occurred once in the history of Islam that the Holy Prophet ‫ٱَّلل َعلَيْ ِه‬ َ
‫سلَّ َم‬
َ ‫ َوآ ِل ِه َو‬proposed to stay in Medina and let the Quraish besiege the city. It was
proposed on the day of Uhud, to stay in Medina and let the enemy to inter the city.
The strategy was absolutely right if it was acted in true spirit. The enemy couldn’t
have avoided another humiliating defeat.

UNIT 3.2 : Lingkuan Gorge

A man should never leave his post

Q.1. What is the narrator's job and the purpose of his journey? What physical
conditions persuade him to rest for a few hours?
Ans: The narrator is the Chief of Material department, when a railway line is
constructed between Chengtu and through very cold, snowy, windy and rainy
weather in a gorge to reach at his duty place. The track is very dangerous, under
construction and not easy to travel or walk. The extreme cold weather conditions
make him restrained, to rest for few hours in a warm place. His body and head are
covered with snow, when he reaches to a cave in a cliff.
Q.2. About how old is Cheng-Yu? What does he respond when the narrator
asks, "why isn't anybody home?
Ans: Cheng-Yu is a small boy of seven or eight when he meets with the Material
Chief. He responds him grievously by knowing that the visitor does not consider him
a person, being a small one. Cheng-Yu comes forward with much confidence and
says, am I not somebody? He ensures with his stern remarks that no doubt he is a
kid but is as responsible for his assignment as a mature can be.
Q.3. What work do Cheng-Yu's parents do? What "job" has Cheng-Yu been
assigned, and what explanation does he give for refusing the narrator's advice
to go to sleep?
Ans: The father of Cheng Yu is a mountains driller. He drills out mountains for
dynamite blasts. His mother is a traffic constable. She-directs -the traffic of various
kinds and keeps the traffic running. Cheng-Yu is assigned to look after his baby
sister in the absence of his parents. He refuses the narrator's advice to go asleep and
replies, a man should never leave his post) He further explains that he is tasked to
look after this baby until my parents come and he'll abide their directions whatever
the suffering is!
Q.4. What does the narrator do in the final paragraph? What does he realize is
waiting for him?
Ans: The narrator has been impressed by Cheng-Yu's liability. He hugs him in
commendation and recollects the fact in mind that he is the Chief of department and
is absent from his duty post due to bad weather, whereas Cheng-Yu being a child, is
faithful to his post and task. He hurriedly leaves the cave and is anxious for his duty
place without any further delay. The determined voice of Cheng-Yu, "the man
should never leave his post", echoes in his mind.
Q.5. What sort of child is Cheng-Yu? What attitude does he display towards his
parents and his responsibilities?
Ans: It looks very clearly that Cheng-Yu is an intelligent, responsible and disciplined
boy of seven or eight. It also shows that he has been looked after in civilized
environment. Actually, the credit goes to his parents because they are disciplined,
committed and hard working. Once they earn without any lethargy, laziness and
shirk; ultimately the sacred earning of parent's effect the breading and looking after
of their children. Devotion, dedication and sense of responsibility at home mould
him as a responsible person towards his parents and duty.
Q.6. What change in mood or outlook does the narrator experience in the
course of the story? What causes the change?
Ans: to The narrator faces many hurdles in his course s of way due to windy ,gushy
,and snowy weather. He is exhausted to move further and decides to take rest in a
cave. He is a responsible person and his duty is due at 10 a.m. some forty kilometres
away across the gorge and even then, he looks for rest to avoid the snowy weather.
When he sees is still not ready to go to sleep. The narrator assures him that papa
says, a man should never leave his post. He declares, it’s my duty to be alert until
my parents come. The strong determination of Cheng Yu, changes the mind of
narrator and he leaves at once for his duty place without any care of bad weather.
Q.7. What ideas about work does the story convey? What else does the story
suggest is valuable?
Ans: The story conveys the fundamental fact that a man should never leave his post.
If a man is busy or free at his duty place, but he is bound to stay at his post beside
whatever exigency is he facing at home or in society. The basic reason of downfall
in departments and institutions comes due to this factor, that the post holders are not
faithful to the post. Sense of responsibility lower days by day in every responsible
person but lust of money raises in everyone. The story conveys the message too that
sense of responsibility, liability and commitment to the task should be the priority
one of every responsible person and rest all needs are priority two.

Q.8. Do you think the story is overly moralistic? How does Tu make his story
entertaining despite its rather heavy-handed message?
Ans: The story basis on morality that a husband and his wife are struggling hard for
respectable life. They guide their children too, to be loyal and sincere to the cause.
Besides its heavy message of morality, Mr. Tu is able to present an entertaining
element too. He depicts his own the end of Material Chief and will have to be put
on used up list." At another entertaining mood he says that Cheng-Yu pushes his
hand by hearing that he is pretty and sharp young imp. We are extremely entertained
by the time when Mr. Tu is unable to predict about weather before Cheng-Yu.
Q.9. Do you think the motto, a man should never leave his post, has any
significance in different spheres of life? Discuss.
Ans: Yes, the motto, "A man should never leave his post" has significance in
different sphere of life. A man who changes his aim and destination on trivial
happenings always remains a failure person. On the
other hand one who remains steadfast against hardships and remains persevere is
considered a successful one. Persistence and steadfastness on moral issues are the
key of success. Escape from hardships is the symbol of Cowardice, while facing
hardships is the symbol of heroism. Commitment to the cause is appreciated
everywhere and in every culture.
UNIT 3.3 : IF
Stanza 1
Paraphrasing:
If you can keep your virtue when all blame you for their loss. . If you can keep your
confidence when all doubt you and you can ignore them. If you can forbear that they
consider you a liar being pious one. You can ignore their hating and still you are not
considered noble and wise.
Reference to the context
These lines have been taken from the poem "IF" which is written by "Rudyard
Kipling". In this poem the poet tells us about the qualities of a real man that how he
suffers the evils of. society and how he tackles these suffering with his good
character. He responds positively, to every bad acts of the society and does not lose
temper . do not like you and whenever they fail, so they consider in any odd
situation.
Explanation:
The poet encourages his son about the difficult situation of the life. He says when
all members of society you the cause of failure. Beside this you can able to maintain
your honour. If you are confident and correct but even then, they suspect you but in
return you ignore their cheating. It's a good characteristic if you can wait till end
result because wait is itself great suffering. You always speak the truth but people
consider you a liar. They hate you but you do not bother of their hating. You face
such Suffering of society with patience but they are not ready to accept you a noble
and wise man. They always annoy you but you do not annoy them. These are the
qualities of a man; you have but they are silly and not ready to confess.
Stanza ll
Paraphrasing
 If you can dream and think but that should not be your aim of life. If you can handle
win and loss with one tick. If you can bear your spoken truth in which you might be
trapped. If you can bear the wastage of your precious things and still have the
courage to build and stand them up with worn-out tools and material.
Reference to the context
These lines have been taken from the poem “IF” which is written by "Rudyard
Kipling". In this poem the poet tells about the qualities of a real man that how he
suffers the evils of society and how he tackles these suffering with his good
character. He responds positively, to every bad acts of the society and does not lose
temper in any odd situation.
Explanation:
The poet wants to test the forbearance of young. He says that they may dream but
dreams are not something practical. Similarly, they may think but thinking should
not be their destination. In dreams and thinking one may reach to the chair of king
within few minutes but practically it is something impossible. People love success
and hate failure but actually both are illusionary and have the similar effects. Truth
is a great quality but sometime it’s become very difficult to face the spoken truth and
that truth is turned into deform shape and becomes a trap for the speaker. If young
have a courage to see that his precious property is being broken in front of him. Then
he stands and take one by one brick and rebuilt that property with new style. It's a
very difficult situation but can be borne by a great man.

Paraphrasing:
If you can risk at once on all your earnings and you lose it. And can start again from
nil and even then, are not disappointed about your loss. If you lose strength and still
can get hold of your body. And you run your life just on will power, when nothing
is left in your body.
Reference to the context
These lines have been taken from the poem "IF" which is written by "Rudyard
Kipling". In this poem the poet tells about the qualities of a real man that how he
suffers the evils of society and how he tackles these suffering with his good
character. He responds positively, to every bad acts of the society and does not lose
temper in any odd situation.
Explanation:
The poet says, taking risk is a good quality for successful business and usually
produces good results. If a man knows how to take risk and can absorb the
consequence of risk which usually makes a man subtle. This kind of man can restart
from nothing and never weeps for his loss, but his eyes remain fixed on further
opportunities. He has strong heart, mind and nervous system. He can fight with the
life and its happening in any of circumstances. Such a man is known as brave and
courageous because he runs all of his life activities without any strength left in his
body. He uses his will power well to keeps him going in difficult circumstances.
Paraphrasing:
If you are fair and square, and can face people or you walk with the kings and sustain
your humbleness. You are not worried from friends and enemies. And all people
respect you but not too much and if you have the courage of forgiveness which needs
just a minute. Then it is clear that you have earned everything of the world and the
best of these earning is that you are a perfect man then.
Reference to the context
These lines have been taken from the poem "IF" which is written by "Rudyard
Kipling' In this poem the poet tells about the abilities of areal man that how the evils
of society and how he tackles these suffering with his good character. He responds
positively to every bad acts of the society and does not lose temper in any odd
situation.

Explanation
In these lines the poet discusses the qualities of a great man. A great and fair man
never worries from friends and enemies because of his noble character. He lives and
deals in upper gentry but he never loses his humbleness. Humbleness is a God gifted
quality which should not be spoilt. He does not bother, why people do not pay him
due respect? He always forgives others, in his view there is just one minute required
to forgive but to revenge needs many years or so. The man of these qualities is the
real owner and master of the world. Last but not the least, he is the man in real sense.
Everything is available in abundance in the world except the real humanity so, he
achieves that degree of preciseness.

Short Questions
Q1. What is the theme of the poem "IF"?
Ans: An adult should lean positive approach in every walk of life. He should know
forbearance and work hard. He should never be crazy for self-status but he should
adopt, patience, love, forgiveness, self-esteem and maturity of mind.
Q.2. The poet believes that these values must be understood by all young people
who wish to become truly adult. Do you agree?
Ans: These values must be adopted by all those young who wish to become a truly
adult. To act upon these values is difficult but is not impossible. It will make the
adults to forbear more in life to get maturity. Then the society will be free of pride,
jealousy and prejudice. A noble society may come into being by adopting these
values.
Q.3. The poet lists many qualities of maturity which he believes make certain
adults superior to others. Select those characteristic that you feel are the most
important?
Ans: The qualities which make an adult superior to others are; A man could do wait.
He doesn't deal in lie. Doesn't believe in hating. Dreams and thoughts may not be
his masters. Can bear his spoken truth and can forbear his loss. Can meet with win
and loss. Can hold his will. Can keep his common touch.
UNIT 4.1 : DETERMINATION
Q1. What two cities John Roebling thought of connecting through the bridge?
Ans. In 1883, a creative engineer named John Roebling was inspired by an idea to
build a spectacular bridge connecting New York with the Long Island. The task
seemed very difficult. The bridge building experts throughout the world thought that
this was an impossible feat. But Roebling could not ignore the vision of the bridge
he had in his mind.
Q2. What did the bridge building engineer throughout the world think of
Roebling’s plan?
Ans. The bridge building experts throughout the world thought that this was an
impossible feat and told Roebling to forget the idea. They thought it could not be
done as well as it was not practical because such a work had never been done before.
Q3. How did Roebling finally succeed in convincing that the project could be
accomplish?
Ans. Roebling was alone in thinking that a bridge could be built. He thought about
it all the time and shared his dream with his son who was a young engineer. After
much discussion and persuasion, he managed to convince his son Washington that
the project could be accomplished.
Q4. What happened when the project was underway for only a few months?
Ans. When the project was underway for only a few months, a very tragic accident
happened to Roebling and his son. As a result of the accident, Roebling lost his life
while his son Washington was injured and left with a certain amount of brain
damage. The accident made him unable to walk, talk or even move.
Q5. What was the response of the people after the accident on the site?
Ans. After the accident on the site, the people responded with negative comments
like, “Crazy men and their crazy dreams!”, “It’s foolish to chase wild visions.”
People felt that the project should be scrapped since the Roebling’s were the only
ones who knew how the bridge could be built.
Q6. Unable to speak or write, what method did Washington use to communicate
with his wife?
Ans. Unable to speak or write, Washington slowly developed a code of
communication with his wife by moving his finger. He touched his wife’s arm with
that finger and tried to indicate what he wanted her to do. For 13 years, Washington
tapped out his instructions with his finger on his wife’s arm until the bridge was
finally completed.

Q7. How did Washington communication with his engineers for 13 long years?
Ans. Washington touched his wife’s arm with the finger then he tapped out his
instructions to tell the engineers what to do. After receiving and understanding the
idea, she communicated to the engineers. In this way, Washington communicated
with his engineers for long 13 years.
Q8. Why did John Roebling ignore when other engineers said that it was an
impossible idea, that it could not be done?
Ans. When John Roebling showed his desire to connect New York with the Long
Island through a bridge, the engineers throughout the world called it impossible and
impractical task. But Roebling ignored them all because he knew deep in his heart
that it could be done. So, he listened to his heart that the bridge in fact could be built.
Q9. Why did Washington not abandon the idea of building the bridge after the
accident which left him totally paralyzed?
Ans. Washington did not abandon the idea of building the bridge because he was a
man of strong will power. He was never discouraged and had burning desire to
complete the bridge. He did not give up and made best use of his finger. For 13 years,
he tapped out instructions with his finger on his wife’s arm until the bridge was
finally completed. So, Brooklyn Bridge is a symbol of his indomitable spirit and
strong determination.
Q.10 The Brooklyn Bridge is called a tribute, a monument by the author. Why?

Ans. The Brooklyn Bridge is called a tribute because it shows that dreams that seem
impossible can be realized with determination and persistence, no matter what the
odds are. Even the most distant dream can be realized with determination and
persistence. The Brooklyn Bridge is called a monument because it symbolizes
incredible power of love to overcome tragedy and build a stronger and more
interconnected world.

UNIT 4.2 : THE MAN WHO PLANTED TREES

STUDY QUESTIONS
Q1. What does Jean Giono say about his long trip on foot over mountain
heights?
Ans. Jean Giono says that he took a long trip over mountain heights where the Alps
thrust down into Provence. The mountains were barren, colourless and quite
unknown to tourists. There grew nothing except wild lavender.
Q2. Where did Giono find himself after three days’ walking?
Ans. Giono found himself in the midst of unparalleled desolation. He camped near
the vestiges of an abandoned village. The five or six roofless houses, tiny chapel
with its crumbling steeple and a dry spring suggested that there must once have been
life but now all life had vanished.
Q3. What does Giono say about the shepherd’s living conditions?
Ans. Giono says that shepherd lived in a house built of stone near a very deep
natural well above which he constructed a primitive winch. The roof of the house
was strong and sound. The house was well in order. The dishes were washed, the
floor was swept and rifle was oiled. His soup was boiling over the fire. He himself
was cleanly shaved, all his buttons were firmly sewed on and his clothing had been
mended with the meticulous care.
Q4. Why does Giono decide to stay for the night at the shepherd’s house?
Ans. Giono decides to stay for the night at the shepherd’s house because he had no
choice. This is the only house in the deserted area. There is no other village near the
shepherd’s house. The nearest village was still more than a day and a half away.
Q5. What did the shepherd do with the heap of acorns?
Ans. The shepherd fetched a small sack and poured out a heap of acorns on the
table. He inspected them and separated the good and bad ones with great care and
concentration. He then began to count out the good acorns by tens. When he selected
one hundred perfect acorns, he stopped and went to bed.

Q6. What did the shepherd carry instead of a stick and what did he do with it?
Ans. The shepherd carried instead of a stick an iron rod. It was as thick as thumb
and about a yard and a half long. He used to plunge the iron rod into the earth for
making holes in which he used to plant acorns.
Q7. For how long did the shepherd plant acorn trees and how many had grown
into full grown trees?
Ans. For three years, he had been planting acorn trees in the wilderness. He planted
one hundred thousand acorns. Out of them, only ten thousand had grown into full
grown trees due to the unpredictable designs of Providence.
Q8. What did Giono discover about the shepherd’s past life?
Ans. Giono discovered that the shepherd’s name was Elzeard Bouffier. He was
fifty-five years old. He had a farm in the lowlands once. There he had his life. He
lost his only son, then his wife. After losing his family, he withdrawn himself into
solitude where his pleasure was to live with his lambs and dog.
Q9. What was the shepherd studying and for what purpose?
Ans. The shepherd was studying the reproduction of beech trees. For that purpose,
he had a nursery of seedlings grown from beechnuts near his cottage. He was also
studying birches for the valley where he thought there was moisture a few yards
below the surface of the soil.
Q10. What did Giono discover on his second visit to the area after the World
War?
Ans. Giono discovered on his second visit to the area after the World War that the
shepherd had change his job. He had got rid of the sheep because they threatened his
young trees. He had now a hundred beehives, Oak trees and birches covered an area
of eleven kilometres in length and three kilometres in width.
Q11. What was the shepherd doing when Giono met him the second time?
Ans. The shepherd changed his job. He had got rid of his sheep because they were
threat to his young trees. He was still busy in planting trees. He had now a hundred
beehives, Oak trees and birches covered an area of eleven kilometres in length and
three kilometres in width.

Q12. What is extent of the Oak tree forest measured by Giono?

Ans. The oak tree forest was eleven kilometres long and three kilometres wide. The
forest had been divided into three sections. The oak trees which the writer had seen
on his last visit in 1910 were now ten years old.
Q13. What else has the man been planting in addition to oak trees? And what
did Giono find there?
Ans. The man has been planting birch plants in addition to oak trees. Giono saw
the clumps of birch trees spreading out in the area as far as the eye could reach. They
were as high as they could reach the shoulder of the writer.
Q14. What does Giono mean by chain reaction? What chain reaction does
Giono describe which he attributes to that man working alone?
Ans. By chain reaction Giono means that one thing in nature creates another thing
associated with it. In other words, chain reaction is a process in which one or more
substances are changed into others.
Q15. When did Giono see the man for the last time?
Ans. Giono saw the man in June 1945 for the last time. He was then eighty- seven
years old.
Q16. What did he discover about the area on his last visit (1945) after 35 years
of his first visit (1910)?
Ans. After 35 years of his visit to the area, he was surprised to see the great change.
The area that had been all ruins and desolation had changed into a green valley. Now
a bus ran between the Durance Valley and the mountain. Everything had changed.
Even the ferocious winds of the past had changed into gentle breeze. He also heard
sound of water falling into pool and saw a fountain there which flowed freely. Beside
the fountain, there was a four years old linden which is the incontestable symbol of
resurrection.
Q17. How old was Bouffier when he died in 1947?
Ana. Bouffier was eighty-nine years old when he died in 1947.
Q18. What does the detailed description of Bouffier’s abode tell us about the
man who planted trees?
Ans. The detailed description of Bouffier’s abode tells us that the man led a solitary
life on the barren land. He wanted to make the area fertile by planting trees. He was
a well-disciplined man, keeping everything neat and in order. He was a determined
person with keen desire to serve humanity. His determination, love of humanity and
devotion shows that men could be as effectual as God in other realms than that of
destruction.
Q19. What does Giono mean by “men could be as effectual as God in other
realms”? Explain.
Ans. By “men could be as effectual as God in other realms” Giono means that man
is very beneficial if he uses his energy and abilities positively. He can bring positive
changes in the world by using his energy and skills. He can be very fruitful to the
people of the world if he utilizes his power and resources just like Bouffier who was
able to cause land of Cannon to spring from the wasteland by his hard work and
devotion.
Q20. Why did the barren valley change into a fertile valley with brooks and
plants and trees and flowers? Remember that Giono could not find water there
on his first visit. What could be the explanation?
Ans. The barren valley had changed into a fertile valley as a result of the sincere
and incessant efforts made by Bouffeir. The valley where only lavender grew had
become a forest containing different kinds of trees. The chain reaction resulting from
the growth of the forest gave fertility to the land while plantation gave birth to
streams, flowers and trees.
Q21. Why does Giono declare the work of Bouffier as “a work worthy of God”?
Ans. Giono declares the work of Bouffier as “a work worthy of God” because he
wants to serve humanity by planting and growing trees. He transforms a barren land
into a fertile and green valley by his hard work and power granted to him by God.

UNIT 4.3 : IT COULDN’T BE DONE

Explanation
Stanza1: The speaker tells a situation in which an unnamed ‘somebody’ tries to
convince a man that ‘something’ cannot be done. This thing is not described as it is
meant to represent any task one has to overcome. But a person laughed and replied
that the task might be difficult but he would not say that it could not be done. First,
he would try to perform the task. If he would fail in doing it, then he would say that
it could not be done. He is not willing to accept that this task cannot be completed,
unless he tries it himself and fails.
Stanza2: The person got ready to do the task. Even without knowledge of what the
thing is, it is admirable to attempt something that has never been completed before.
There was a broad smile on his face. He did not show any sort of worry. He sang
songs while performing the task which was considered difficult and impossible by
people. The second stanza ends up with the revelation that the man accomplished
the thing that could not be done.
Stanza3: Somebody made fun of the person who tried to perform the difficult task.
He said that the person would never succeed as nobody had ever performed it before.
But the man got ready. He took off his coat and hat and started to perform the
difficult task. The man in the poem is not deterred by the naysayer. He is confident
and proud of his abilities, a fact which enables his success.
Stanza4: The determined person got ready for the task to be done. He lifts his chin
with pride and smiles at the onlooker’s surprised face. With an expression of joy,
broad smile and without any doubt in his mind, he started to perform the thing. He
sang song while working very hard. The speaker emphasizes the upbeat attitude the
man took and the song he broke into to encourage himself onward.
Stanza5: The speaker tells the readers that throughout life there are always going to
be those who tell you something cannot be done. They will ‘prophesy’ or predict
your failure. They will warn you that many dangers and risks are involved in this
task. The poet uses anaphora in his repetition of the words “There are thousands” for
the third time. There is a great emphasis placed on the number of people who want
to see you ‘fail’.
Stanza6: The speaker tells the readers that anytime someone doubts ‘you’, that is a
perfect time to prove them wrong. You should buckle in with a bit of a grin just as
the man did. You should start the work with smile on your face. You are required to
take off your coat and sing songs of hope while performing the task. You should
certainly be able to do the work which is considered impossible by the people. Let
our action doing the talking for us. The greater the obstacle, the more glory in
overcoming it.
Analysis: The poem ‘It Couldn’t Be Done’ has been written by ‘Edger Guest’. The
tone or attitude in this poem is very much positive especially towards the end. The
poem is about the broad idea of not letting people tell you what can be done and
can’t done.
At the beginning someone tells someone else that ‘it’ could not be done, but
the man said he would not say it could not be done until he tried it himself. The man
was optimistic in the beginning about what could not be done. Without a doubt he
started to do it by singing songs. The biggest shift in the poem is when the man did
the thing that could not be done. It went from an optimistic mood to an inspiring
mood. It became inspiring and encouraging when he did that thing in a way that you
can do anything even when people say you can’t because no one had ever done it.
The theme of the poem is to try things no matter how impossible someone
says it might be. If someone says you can’t do something then go prove them wrong
and do it. Don’t let someone’s negative attitude take you away from doing something
you want to do.

UNIT 5.1 : TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY OF THE FUTURE

STUDY QUESTIONS
Q1. When did the modern science and technology begin to make progress?
Ans. The modern science and technology began to make progress in the
seventeenth century. Since then technology and science have been making progress
by leaps and bounds. New inventions and discoveries in the numerous fields have
brought revolution in the life of human beings.
Q2. How have modern science and technology brought revolution in the life of
human beings?
Ans. Modern science and technology have brought a revolution in the life of human
beings by new inventions and discoveries in the numerous fields. Now owing to
scientific and technological advances, he has the capability to control and modify
his environment to suit his needs and requirements. They have made man the master
of the universe as well as of the things which it contains.
Q3. How has science enabled man to modify his environment?
Ans. Science has enabled man to modify his environment according to his needs
and requirements. By adopting scientific methods, human beings are now more
confident to handle their environmental conditions. Human beings no more attribute
the weather conditions or disaster to supernatural, bad or evil forces.
Q4. What did people believe in before the establishment of science and
technology?
Ans. Before the establishment of science and technology, people were helpless
before the forces of nature. They used to believe in superstitions and in certain
supernatural forces for the control of their future. They attributed the weather
conditions or disaster to supernatural, bad or evil forces. People also used to believe
in magic and fortune telling.
Q5. How do people think in the era of technology and science?
Ans. In the era of science and technology, people think independently, logically
and scientifically. By adopting scientific methods, people feel themselves secure and
confident. They have developed self-confidence, self-esteem and courage in human
beings.
Q6. Why did millions of people die in the great plague that started in 542 AD?
Ans. Millions of people died in the great plague that started in 542 AD because no
scientific equipment and instruments were available at that time. The modern
medicines such as antibiotics and antiseptics had not been discovered at that time.
Q7. When and by whom was penicillin discovered?
Ans. Penicillin was discovered in 1927 by Alexander Fleming. The discovery of
penicillin brought a revolution in the treatment of infections and infectious diseases.
Q8. Has smallpox been eradicated once for all from the world?
Ans. Yes, with the discovery of various medicines and revolution in surgery,
smallpox has been eradicated once for all from the world.
Q9. How people travelled from one place to another in olden days. What
hardships did they have to suffer?
Ans. In olden days, people used to travel on foot or used animal driven carts to
travel from one place to another. The speed was terribly slow. Human beings had to
tolerate hardships and sufferings of the olden day travels. Many people died during
the journey by facing troubles of long but slow journey such as hunger, thirst, illness,
bad weather etc.
Q10. What revolution has taken place in the field of transportation due to
modern technology?
Ans. Modern technology has brought great revolution in the field of transportation.
Now means of transportation has squeezed the distance, overcome the forces of
gravity and made possible the exploration of the outer space. Man has reached the
moon and trying to reach other planets. The modern technology has made the world
integrated or reachable. Now-a-days, man can fly around the world or travel from
one continent to another only in a few hours. Modern net-workings of roads have
really revolutionized the world and the day to day activities.
Q11. Enumerate the various means of communications brought about by
modern technology and science.
Ans. Telegraph, telephone, radio, television, print media, satellite, electronic mail
and internet are the various means of communication brought about by modern
technology and science. They have really converted the world into a global village
or a global apartment.
Q12. How has man succeeded in conquering the space?
Ans. Owing to modern science and technology, man has succeeded in conquering
the space. He has reached the moon and is trying to reach other planets. He has
launched satellites in the space and making full use of it in the field of
communication and discoveries.
Q13. What changes have the modern technology brought in the field of
agriculture?
Ans. Modern technology has played a vital role in the field of agriculture. It has
greatly helped man in developing agriculture, livestock and food industry. It has
helped man to bring barren and arid lands under plough and construct dams for
irrigation and generation of electricity. It has helped to get good quality seeds, better
varieties of crops, pesticides, more milk producing and processing and the
preservation of food. It has enabled the agriculturists to increase their yield per acre
and grow bumper crops as well as produce vegetables and fruits out of season.
Q14. How can we put an end to load-shedding and energy-crisis?
Ans. We can put an end to load-shedding and energy crisis by using solar energy.
Solar energy is obtained from sunlight with the help of solar panels. Moreover, if
small as well as big dams are constructed in the country, the problem of load-
shedding can be solved.
Q15. What is solar energy? Can it be a suitable substitute for fuel and coal
energy?
Ans. Solar energy is the energy which is obtained from sunlight that is used in a
range of ever-evolving technologies such as solar heating, photovoltaic, solar
thermal energy, solar architecture, molten salt power plants and artificial
photosynthesis. It can be a suitable substitute for fuel and coal energy.

Q16. Atomic energy is a big source of energy. How can it be used for peaceful
purposes?
Ans. Atomic energy can be used for producing electricity and solving energy crisis.
By using atomic energy, farmers can run their tube wells round the clock. It can help
the productivity and preservation of foodstuffs. It can be used in the field of medical
science by diagnosing the diseases and in their treatment.

UNIT 5.2 : GENDER INEQUALITY IS DETRIMENTAL TO

SOCIETY
STUDY QUESTIONS
Q1. What is the ratio between male and female population in the world?
Ans. The ratio between male and female population in the world is almost the same.
World’s population comprises of more than 50% women.
Q2. Do women in the poor and developing countries enjoy equal rights?
Ans. No, women in the poor and developing countries are not enjoying equal rights.
They lead a miserable life. They face many hurdles in the race of life. They have
been kept deprived of enough education, health facilities and nutrition.
Q3. Why are women deprived of their due rights in our society?
Ans. Women are deprived of their due rights in our society because most of the
people in our country are illiterate. They discriminate between men and women. This
gender inequality deprives women of their due rights in the society.
Q4. Who consider women as ‘Fragile human beings’?
Ans. Men consider women as ‘Fragile human beings’. They do not give women
their due rights. Women are deprived of education, health facilities and right of
inheritance. This gender inequality is a violation of the equal human laws and rules.
Q5. What is the status of women in Islam?
Ans. Islam has elevated the status of women. It gives women equal rights. It also
has embarked their due share in the inheritance. It gives women great respect than
any other society as a wife, mother, daughter and sister.

Q6. Describe the hurdles and hardships faced by women in Pakistan?

Ans. In Pakistan, women face many hurdles in the race of life. They are unable to
get proper education. Overall general health conditions are not satisfactory for
women. They have to suffer more specially during maternity period due to lack of
hospitals in remote areas. The quality as well as quantity of food for female and male
is based on discrimination. This gender inequality depicts a horrible picture of the
health conditions of women in Pakistan. Women are also mal-treated in the cases of
inheritance. They are given less job opportunities and being victimized on the basis
of gender.
Q7. Why do parents in most of the rural areas not send their daughters to
schools?
Ans. Parents in most of the rural areas do not send their daughters to school because
they are illiterate and conservative. They consider it unnecessary and useless. In
most rural areas, there are only primary schools for girls. For higher education,
parents avoid to send their daughters to other cities due to their poor financial
condition.
Q8. What has been said about the importance of education for a woman?
Ans. Education is necessary if we want our nation and country make progress. It is
said, “If you educate a man, you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman,
you educate a family”.
Q9. What are the causes of high mortality rate of women during child-birth?
Ans. The causes of high mortality rate of women during child-birth are the
unavailability of hospitals and doctors in remote areas. The non-availability of
qualified health care staff i.e. mid- wives and lady health visitors is another reason
of high mortality rate. Besides, the male members of the family do not want to take
their women to the male doctors. The poor ailing women die by inches due to the
sheer negligence of the male members.
Q10. Why do the male members of a family not want to take their women to the
male doctors?
Ans. As most of the people of Pakistan are illiterate and conservative, they do not
want to take their women to male doctors. Moreover, 70% of the population lives in
rural areas where ‘purdah’ is strictly observed. The people of those areas consider it
a violation of purdah to take their women to male doctors for treatment.

Q11. Can ailing and weak women contribute much to the progress and
prosperity of a country?
Ans. No, ailing and weak women cannot contribute much to the progress and
prosperity of a country. If women are ailing and weak, it is obvious that their off-
springs will also be thin, weak and unhealthy. So, weak and unhealthy people cannot
participate in the economic growth of a country.
Q12. What are the adverse effects on society when women are mal-treated?
Ans. If women are mal-treated, it will affect the society badly. If women are
deprived of education, they will not be able to educate their children and also
contribute towards the family income if needed. Denial of health care facilities will
result in greater maternal deaths and psychological diseases. It will also negatively
affect the health of children. So, mal-treatment will prevent them from enjoying their
human rights and fundamental freedom. It will also hinder their participation in
political and public life.
Q13. Do women deserve to be given due share in inheritance?
Ans. Yes, women deserve to be given due share in inheritance. Being a mother,
daughter, sister and wife, she spends her whole life for her family’s welfare with
devotion and sacrifice. Islam also has honoured women and has considered their
status as inheritors. So, women should not be deprived of their due share.
Q14. There are religious as well as national laws about the rights of women.
How can these laws be enforced?
Ans. The religious as well as national laws about the rights of women can be
enforced by creating laws and enforcing existing laws that protect women from
discrimination and violence by government officials. Women access to justice
should be monitored and made accessible and sustainable. For this reason, mobile
courts can be made especially for women living in remote rural areas. We need to
educate community members on their responsibilities and highlight the value of
girl’s education and of women’s participation in in economic development. We need
to raise awareness of the poor conditions of women.
UNIT 5.3 : THE SCHOOL BOY
Explanation
Stanza1: The poet introduces the main character and speaker who is a school boy.
The young narrator speaks about the things he loves in this stanza. He loves to rise
in a summer morning and hear the birds singing on every tree. Further in the distance
he can hear the horn of the huntsman and the song of the skylark who seems to sing
only for him. These are the types of company he desires.
Stanza2: The poet tells from the perspective of a young school boy who feels
trapped in the monotony of the everyday attendance to his school. He is forced to
rise on a summer morning and go to school. He is unable to stay in peaceful
environment. Going to school deprives the little children of joys. In the school, they
feel tired under the cruel supervision of their teachers. He bemoans his and his
classmate’s fate that they are stuck inside in sighing and distress.
Stanza3: The young speaker continues on telling the reader more about his
miserable days at school. He sits exhausted, hunched over in his seat. He takes no
pleasure in school work and anxiously waits for the end of the day. He cannot take
delight in his books. He feels tired under the burden of reading a large number of
books.
Stanza4: The young speaker asks a question to his readers. He pleads whosoever is
listening and asks how a bird that is born cheerful and jovial, sit in a cage and sing.
Similarly, a child if remained under the umbrella of annoying fear and tension, the
scepticism of his teacher can never enjoy the natural instincts of joy and playfulness.
Indeed, a world full of rigid course of discipline will ruthlessly take away the
beautiful springs (the childhood days) of a person’s life.
Stanza5: The speaker turns to address his parents as he sees them the ones who
could possibly change his situation. He tells them the reasons why they should not
force him to go to school. He speaks about his own childhood joys as being buds
that are being nipped and blossoms that are going away. His happiness is delicate
like the tender plants and he should not have to be subject to sorrow and distress at
his young age.
Stanza6: The speaker asks how the summer season can remain joyful when it comes
to know that winter season is near. With the approach of this season, fruit begin to
disappear. The loss brought by winter is irreparable. Similarly, if he is stripped of
his joy and given sorrow, then how can his parents expect the appearance of fruit in
the summer? Due to their choices, the loss of his childhood will result in an
unpreparedness for life. He will not be able to last through the trials of life and the
blasts of winter when they appear.
Critical Analysis: ‘The School Boy’ is a poem written by William Blake and
published as a part of his poetry collection entitled “Songs of Innocence”. This poem
is written in the pastoral tradition that focuses on the downsides of formal learning.
This poem reflects Blake’s thoughts of alternative methods of education. It shows
the draining element of classroom education and how it causes students to contribute
poor learning.
In this poem, the boy loves to rise in a summer morning but he has to go to
school and this drives his all joys away. Hence, here we can see that society norms
destroys the innocence of youth. We find the element of restriction imposed on the
carefree life of the school boy. The poet makes use of repetition to create a bleak
tone in the poem. The repeated use of word ‘morn’ as well as ‘outworn’ and ‘horn’,
tells how depressed the boy feels in school. The use of word ‘tender’ also forces to
remember how vulnerable children are to external events and hence emphasizing
on how their childhood should only be filled with ‘joy’.
The poet also uses symbols to emphasize the bad effects of education system
on youth. The bird symbolizes freedom and a child in school is compared to a bird
in cage under the’ cruel eye’. It means that the school boy is being trapped at school
rather than being allowed to move freely about the country side. Blake compares the
cycle of the seasons with the age of man. ‘Summer’ is a metaphor for youth and the
joys of youth are ‘the summer fruits’. They are something to be stored up against the
‘blasts of winter’ or ‘griefs’ that come with adulthood. Metaphorically speaking,
education is the thing that prevents the summer fruits from appearing. In this sense,
school is seen as not only unnatural but also a threat to the natural order.
 As a poet of Romanticism. Blake has shown the importance of Nature in the
poem. The references such as summer, wind, blossoms, rain shower, birds and spring
relate to the importance of nature. The poet wishes his readers to see the difference
between the freedom of imagination offered by close contact with nature, and the
repression of the soul caused by brutal education system.
The poem is a six-stanza poem of five lines each. Each stanza follows an ababb
rhyme scheme. The tone of the poem is sombre and melancholic.

UNIT 6.1 : Archaeological Treasures of Pakistan

Q.1. What are the most important archaeological sites of Pakistan? What light
they throw on the antiquity in this part of the world?
Ans. The most important archaeological sites of Pakistan are Taxila, Mohenjo-Daro
and Bhanbore. The throw light on the civilization, culture, religion and art of the
antiquity in this part of the world. The discovery of monuments and seals belonging
to different ages of the past give us precious information about the various aspects
of the ancient world. Taxila throws light on the Gandhara Art while Mohenjo-Daro
on the Indus Valley Civilization. Bhanbore tells us about Debul where Muhammad
Bin Qasim landed.
Q.2. What is the importance of Taxila as an archaeological site?
Ans. Taxila is important as an archaeological site because of its association with
Alexander and Asoka who were the greatest persons in the ancient history. There are
four sites at Taxila which became important centres of Buddhism. Taxila contains
some of the oldest relics of our civilization and the world’s artistic treasure. It throws
light on the Gandhara Art.
Q.3. What is one of the most important aspects of the discovery of Mohenjo-
Daro?
Ans. One of the most important aspects of the discovery of Mohenjo-Daro is the
Indus Valley Civilization. It carries us five thousand years back in the history of the
world to prehistoric sites of Mesopotamia. This discovery proved that here existed a
civilization before the arrival of the Aryans. The skulls dug out from here show that
four different types of people lived here.
Q.4. Where is Bhanbore? What is its archaeological interest?
Ans. Bhanbore is situated at a distance of forty miles from Karachi. Its
archaeological civilization lies in the fact that it is probably the same place where
Muhammad Bin Qasim landed for the first time in 712 A.D. It is perhaps Debul.
Here the signs of a mosque have been found which dates from about a hundred and
fifty years after the commencement of the Muslim era.
Q.5. Discuss the importance of archaeological treasures that belong to the
Mughal period.
Ans. The archaeological treasures that belong to the Mughal period are important
because they are nearer to our age as compared with the other archaeological
treasure. Their archaeological treasures lie scattered all over Pakistan. The most
important of them are the Lahore Fort, the Badshahi Mosque and the tomb of
Anarkali etc. The beauty of these archaeological treasures reveals the skill of the
Hindu stone carvers and masons. The people of the subcontinent have an emotional
attachment with these archaeological sites. Some of the sites such as the tomb of
Anarkali have romantic appeal for the people.

UNIT 6.2 : The Renaissance

Q.1. Which civilization provided the inspiration for change?
Ans. Greek and Roman civilizations provided the inspiration for change. These
civilizations possessed a lot of treasure of knowledge and a special mode of thinking.
When the people of the other regions in the world came in contact with the beautiful
ideas of the Greek and Roman civilizations, they were filled with a keen desire to
imitate them. Thus, they provided the inspiration for change.
Q.2. When new ideas were discussed, what was challenged?
Ans. When new ideas were discussed, the old ones were challenged. When the
people came in contact with the Greek and Roman civilizations, they developed a
keen sense of enquiry into all aspects of the human world. Thus, a great change
occurred in the opinions of the people about human relations, mode of thinking and
in art and literature.
Q.3. What was the basis for the success of Florence?
Ans. The basis for the success of Florence was its geographical position, its
economic progress, its love of democracy and the general character of the people.
The Florentines possessed all those qualities that are necessary for the success of a
nation. In the field of trade, they possessed the required qualities such as initiative,
energy, creating new ideas and the will to take risks. As a republic, its citizens liked
and loved self-government. Because of being lovers of democracy, they rejected the
hard and fast rules made by the kings.
Q.4. Give some examples of why you think traders needed to be resourceful and
creative.
Ans. We can give examples of Florence in the fields of Industry and Banking. It was
because of their resourcefulness and creativity that the people of Florence achieved
wonderful success in the trade of silk, wool and flax. They took risks and invested
money in developing a textile industry. In the field of banking, they made progress
and earned money due to their quality of accepting challenges and innovation. They
made Florence rich and prosperous in almost all fields of life.
Q.5. Why did artists flourish in Florence?
Ans. Artists flourished in Florence because of the following reasons:
• The Humanism of Renaissance had a huge influence on art and literature. The
artists were free to think and act as regard their art of creating beauty and
comfort in their masterpieces. They were not bound to follow a fixed pattern
by the rich people to use their own ideas in the fields of craft, sculptor and
architecture.
• They were free from financial problems. They competed with each other not
only in business but in their lifestyle too.

Q.6. What stirred people’s interest in the world beyond their own lands?
Ans. The tales of Marco Polo’s adventures in China in the late 13 th century stirred
people’s interest in the world beyond their won lands. Moreover, the tales of other
adventures that some other explorers brought back about Spice Islands also stirred
the people’s interest in the world. The beginning of humanism in Europe i.e. their
interest in the world and people developed the desire to know more and more about
the world beyond their own lands.
Q.7. How did humanism begin in Europe and what was its impact on art and
literature?
Ans. Trade made the people wealthy and rich. They were able to get education. The
scholars began to translate the manuscripts written by Greek scholars. In this way, a
new area of thought was opened up for the people about religion, politics, science
and art. In this way, humanism began in Europe. The impact of humanism on art and
architecture was that more people became interested to enjoy luxury and comfort.
Now the rich people started to build castles not for protection but for beauty and
comfort.
Q.8. What made the world open up for the people of Florence?
Ans. Trade and exploration opened up the world for the people of Florence. The
adventures of Marco Polo and tales of the traders about the Spice Islands developed
an interest of the people in the lands beyond their own. The invention of printing
press helped in spreading the tales of adventure and ideas from the classical world.
In this way, the world was opened up for the people of Florence.

UNIT 6.3 : Once Upon a Time

About the Poet:
Gabriel Okara, in full Gabriel Imomotimi Gbaingbain Okara, (born April 21,
1921, Bumodi, Nigeria—died March 25, 2019, Yenagoa, Nigeria), is a Nigerian poet
and novelist who may be pronounced as highly original and uninfluenced by other
poets. He has been extremely successful in apprehending the moods, sights and
sounds of Africa. His poems show great sensitivity, perceptive judgments and a
tremendous energy. Okara also shows a concern on the topic of what happens when
the ancient culture of Africa is faced with modern western culture.
Okara’s poetry is based on a series of contrasts in which symbols are neatly
balanced against each other. The need to reconcile the extremes of experience (life
and death are common themes) preoccupies his verse, and a typical poem has a
circular movement from everyday reality to a moment of joy and back to reality
again.
Okara incorporated African thought, religion, folklore, and imagery into both his
verse and prose.
About the Poem:
The poem “Once Upon A Time” written by Gabriel Okara illustrates the changes a
father has seen in him throughout his life which have been influenced by the way
society has changed.
Once Upon a Time’s Background:
• Okara tried to capture the culture, values and voice of Nigerian people. He
was concerned with the clash of Nigerian traditions and modern western
culture.
• Loss of authentic Nigerian identity and behaviour.
• Nigeria colonized by Britain in 1885 and became a British protectorate in
1901.
• Nigeria got its independence in 1960.
 • Nigeria is still influenced by western culture, attitudes and values.
• Poem explores the impact of western development and the change in cultural
attitudes, values and traditions.

Theme:
The poem ‘Once Upon a Time’ has been composed by Gabriel Okara. The poet
throws light on the difference between the people of past and present. Nigerian were
considered the most honest and trustworthy people before being influenced by
modern culture and values. They were genuine, pure and sincere people but now
these qualities are replaced by hypocrisy, selfishness and insincerity. They were no
difference between their inner and outer selves. But now their emotions and
intentions are artificial.
Explanation:
Stanza 1:
In the first stanza, at the start of the poem, Okara writes “they used to laugh with
their hearts and… eyes; but now they only laugh with their teeth while their ice-
block cold eyes search behind my shadow.” This phrase illustrates the change in the
way people act showing that their laughs used to be genuine and heartfelt however
now their attitudes have changed. The description of “laugh with their teeth”
illustrates someone showing false interest. The dark imagery “ice-block cold eyes”
which follows shows that there is no emotion or feeling in the action.
Stanza 2:
In the next stanza, Okara describes how “they used to shake hands with their hearts”
implying that the actions were genuine and were also symbolic of good intentions,
however, “Now they shake hands without hearts while their left hands search my
empty pockets.” This phrase illustrates that all good intentions have gone and how
now it is every man for him. Everybody is only focusing on their own personal gain.
The use of a metaphor emphasizes how there is a lack of trust as everybody is trying
to use each other.
Stanza 3:
Guests are no longer welcome these days. They are given a warm reception only
once. If they visit their friends or relatives thrice or a greater number of days, the
doors are shut on them. People in society no longer mean what they say- it’s all about
being polite. Can never know when someone is actually being sincere as it is so rare.
The poem also implies that true friends are very hard to find- cannot trust anyone.
The positive direct speech is undermined by the opening of the next line – “they say”
suggests irony and prepares us for the contrast that is to come. Short lines which
break up the sentence suggest emotion – he is upset .The final word of the section
drives home the personal feelings.
Stanza 4:
Son’ – directly addressed, so he uses examples to make his point clear. Experience
has replaced innocence .The poet has used Simile in this line: “I have learned to wear
many faces like dresses” - makes expressions and emotions seem like they’re
disposable, and you can choose how to feel and when to feel it. It conveys how
society is only obsessed with appearance, not really reflecting inner feelings. Irony
with ‘home face’ as you would think that you are yourself at home but even there
you have a mask. Conforming shows that the persona is going along with authority.
It is not necessarily positive in tone.
Stanza 5:
In the next stanza, Okara shows the change in him as a man. “And I have learned,
too… to say ‘Goodbye’, when I mean ‘Good-riddance”. Here there is an evident
shift in the stanza due to the fact that he is now talking about himself and how he too
has learned to be false. This could imply that society has pressured him into changing
in a negative way. Despite not wanting to be like ‘them’ the speaker is saying that
he has adapted to the society and now does things he does not want to and says things
he does not mean. Repetition of the ‘teeth’ from stanza 1. A passage of balance and
antithesis…good has become bad. The requirements of a new social discourse bore
him.
Stanza 6:
When I was like you’: he is looking up to his son, on his disassociation with
fraudulent behaviour and emphasizes on how he regrets having to repress his
individuality to adopt into society. Simile ‘like a snake’s bare fangs!’ conveys a
sinister sense and the possible deception of himself. The exclamation mark involved
could show the magnitude of his distress, as he is need of his son’s guidance; he has
failed to achieve his objectives alone. He feels that he’s become poisonous (like a
snake).
Stanza 7
The speaker is guilty of having to be like one of ‘them’ and he wants his life to be
filled with innocence and honesty again. He wants to revisit the time when he was
naïve and unknown to the real truth of society. Ironic as it seems as though,
throughout the poem, the elderly figure is teaching the ‘son’ the truth of society,
however at the end the speaker wants the child to teach the adult- roles have been
reversed. Okara may be wanted to say that we should learn from children to not be
hypocrites or diplomats, to just be yourself.

UNIT 7.1 : THE MERCHANT OF VENICE

Q1. Who was Shylock and where did he live?
Shylock, the Jew, lived at Venice: he was a usurer, who had amassed an immense
fortune by lending money at great interest to Christian merchants. He was a hard-
hearted man, who always exacted the payment of money he lent with such severity
that he was disliked by all good men.
Q2. Who was Anthonio and why did he hate Shylock?
Anthonio was the kindest man that lived; the best conditioned and had the most
unwearied spirit in doing courtesies. Anthonio hated Shylock because he was a hard-
hearted man, who always exacted the payment of money with severity.

Q3. How did Anthonio help the needy in Venice?

Anthonio used to lend money to people in distress and would never take any interest
for the money he lent. Anthonio assisted his fellow people without thinking of any
reward.
Q4. Who was Bassanio and why did he need money?
Bassanio told Anthonio that he wished to repair his fortune by a wealthy marriage
with a lady whom he dearly loved. He besought Anthonio to add to many favours he
had shown him, by lending him three thousand ducats.
Q5. Why did Anthonio and Bassanio go to Shylock, the Jew?
Anthonio had no money by him at that time so they went together to Shylock and
Anthonio asked the Jew to lend him three thousand ducats upon an interest.
Q6. Why did Shylock lend money to Anthonio?
Shylock took this an opportunity to take revenge upon Anthonio, agreed to give
the required loan if Anthonio will accept the terms of the bond. If Anthonio failed to
repay the loan within three months, Shylock would acquire the right to cut off one
pound of flesh from any of Anthonio’s body he might prefer.
Q7. Who was Nerissa and whom did she marry?
Nerissa was a waiting- maid of Portia; but actually, she was more of a companion to
Portia than a maidservant. She married Gratiano-the subordinate of Bassanio.
Q8. What was the condition of the bond?
Shylock took this an opportunity to take revenge upon Anthonio, agreed to give
the required loan if Anthonio will accept the terms of the bond. If Anthonio failed to
repay the loan within three months, Shylock would acquire the right to cut off one
pound of flesh from any of Anthonio’s body he might prefer.
Q9. Who was Portia and whom did she marry?
Portia was a beautiful, intelligent and rich heiress of Belmont. She was bound by
her father’s will to give chance to her suitors to choose among three caskets.
Bassanio had chosen the right casket and they got married.
Q10. Why did Shylock refuse to take back the money he lent to Anthonio?
Shylock had been harbouring great problems with Anthonio. He hates Anthonio
chiefly because Anthonio was a Christian while he himself was a Jew; but he hates
Anthonio even more because Anthonio had been lending money and bringing down
the rate of interest in Venice. That is the reason he wanted Anthonio’s flesh to serve
as bait to catch fish.
Q11. What role did Portia play in the court?
She seemed possessing a high intellectual calibre, and an intellectual vigour. She
gave Shylock every chance to escape from the punishment to which he would
become liable if she felt compelled to pronounce the judgement which she had
already decided upon and planned for the rescue of Anthonio. She saved Anthonio
by her wits.
Q12. How was Anthonio’s life saved?
Portia played a trump card at last that if the Jew wanted to have a pound of flesh
then he must not shed any blood in this process because no blood has been mentioned
in the bond otherwise the Jew’s lands and goods would be confiscated by the State
of Venice. Later on, she said that as Shylock has tried to take the life of a native
citizen so half of this property goes to the intended victim and other half to the state.
This saved Anthonio’s life. Shylock then leaves the court, a broken man.

UNIT 7.2 : KING LEAR

Q1. How many daughters King Lear had. What were their names?
 Lear , the king of Britain, had three daughters; Gonerill, wife to the duke of
Albany; Regan, wife to the duke of Cornwall; and Cordelia, a young maid, for
whose love the king of France and duke of Burgundy were joint suitors.

Q2. What did the old king decide to do before his death?

The old king, worn out with age and the fatigues of government, he being more
than fourscore years old, determined to take no further part in state affairs, but to
leave the management to younger strengths, that he might have time to prepare for
death.

Q3. How did the king test the love and loyalty of his daughters?

He called his three daughters to him, to know from their own lips which of them
loved him best. It was his childish vanity which prompted him to ask them in open
court to tell him how much they love him.

Q4. Why did the king disinherit Cordelia?

Cordelia was by nature a reticent girl, and she, therefore, said that she had
nothing to say. As Lear had always loved Cordelia the most, he felt very displeased
with her for her failure to say anything rashly, he disowned and disinherited her,
dividing her share of the kingdom between his other two daughters,

Q5. How did Goneril and Regan treat that old king, their father?

Goneril was already fed up with her father and would like to get rid of him. She
instigated her steward Oswald and her other servants to take no notice of her father
and his knights. Regan took Goneril’s side and said that her sister had tried to control
the rowdy behaviour of knights and should not be blamed for it. They had not tried
to stop their father from going out into storm.

Q6. What role did the Earl of Kent, Caius play in the play, king Lear?

The Earl of Kent appears in the play as an embodiment of loyalty. He attends

upon the king, attends to his needs, and serves him in every possible way. He
disguised himself as a serving man. Kent was able to foresee the things just like the
Fool. Kent in disguise had followed the king and done him “service improper for a
slave.”

Q7. How did Cordelia take care of her father in his last days?
 Cordelia was feeling worried about the condition of her father. She ordered her
servants to make a search for him and consulted a doctor about her father’s insanity.
Lear had been brought to Cordelia’s place where the doctor had administered a sleep
-inducing herbal medicine to him. This cured the old king.

Q8. Who was Edmund and whom he wanted to marry?

Edmund was the bastard son of the Earl of Gloucester. He encouraged each of
the two sisters, Goneril and Regan, to think that he was in love with her alone.
Actually, he loved neither of them. He would like to exploit their love for him in
order to promote his own ambition.

Q9. Why did Goneril decide to kill Regan by poison?

When Goneril realized that she has lost the game she left in a state of depression.
She felt desperate that Edmund is dying and her husband has come to know of her
treachery. Her jealousy had been aroused by Regan’s bestowing all his possessions
and her love on Edmund.

Q10. Why did Goneril put an end to her life?

When Goneril realized that she has lost the game she left in a state of depression.
She felt desperate that Edmund is dying and her husband has come to know of her
treachery. So, she goes away and committed suicide. She met the end which she
truly deserved.

Q11. Who ascended the throne of Britain after the death of King Lear?

Albany offered the administration of the kingdom to Kent and Edgar. Kent,
however, said that he had to go on a journey shortly in response to a call from his
master. Thus, Edgar alone remained to help Albany in governing the country.