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GNDU Question Paper-2021
B.A 1
st
Semester
ENGLISH (Elective)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 100
Note: Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section. The
Fifth question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1 Explain any Two of the following literary terms:
Epic, Irony, Plot, Paradox.
II Transcribe any Ten words out of the following:
Stair, what, cough, clerk, mauve, sure, sample, tooth, yak, yawn, sing, tongue.
SECTION-B
III. Base on the poems, answer any Five of the following questions in 5-7 sentences each:
(1) What is the "murmur" that patience prevents Milton from making in the poem
"On His Blindness"?
(2) Is beauty an immortal ideal, or is it vulnerable to time? Discuss the portrayal of beauty in
"My Mistress's Eyes Are Nothing Like The Sun".
(3) Explain the theme of beauty in Robert Burns "A Red, Red Rose",
(4) What makes a man happy, according to Alexander Pope's "Ode on Solitude"?
(5) Why did the speaker cry in the "Chimney Sweeper"?
(6) In "The Sun Rising", what is the role of the sun and why does the speaker have a problem
with that?
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IV. Answer any One of the following in about 150 words:
(1) In "The Sun Rising", how John Donne expresses his intense feelings of love? Discuss.
(2) What is the central theme of Robert Herrick's poem "To the Virgins, to Make Much of
Time" and how is it developed by the poet? Discuss.
SECTION-C
V. Based on the poems, answer any Five of the following questions in 5-7 sentences each:
(1) From your reading of the poem "My Last Duchess", what is your impression of the last
Duchess? Do you think she is responsible for her fate?
(2) Explain the person's admiration for autumn in the poem "To Autumn" by John Keats.
(3) "A soldier has no home but a purpose." How far is the statement applicable in the
context of the poem "To the Indian Who died in Africa"?
(4) In the poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost, do you think it is on a positive side
that he chose "the road less travelled by"?
(5) What exactly are Shelley's feelings about fame and worldly power in the poem
"Ozymandias"?
(6) What types of symbolism does William Wordsworth use in "Daffodils"?
VI. Explain any One of the following stanzas with reference to the context:
(1) I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads
diverged in a wood, and 1-I took the one less travelled by, And that has made
all the difference
(2) Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness,
Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun; Conspiring with him how to load and bless With
fruit the vines that round the thatch-evés run; To bend with apples the moss'd cottage-
trees, And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core; To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel
shells With a sweet kernel; to set budding more, And still more, later flowers for the
bees, Until they think warm days will never cease, For summer has o'er-brimm'd their
clammy cells.
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SECTION-D
VII. Answer any Two of the following in about 150 words each:
(1) Explain the signifiance of the title of the play A Doll's House.
(2) Is A Doll's House a faminist play? Discuss.
(3) Compare the relationship between Mrs. Linde and Krogstad with that of Nora and
Torvald.
VIII. Answer the following:
Discuss the dramatic structure of Henrik Ibsen's play A Doll's House.
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GNDU Answer Paper-2021
B.A 1
st
Semester
ENGLISH (Elective)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 100
Note: Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section. The
Fifth question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1 Explain any Two of the following literary terms:
Epic, Irony, Plot, Paradox.
Ans: 1. Epic
An epic is a long narrative poem that tells the story of a hero’s journey or adventure. The
hero is usually brave, strong, and often has supernatural help. Epics are usually set in the
distant past and talk about battles, gods, monsters, and important cultural values.
Key Features:
• Long poem
• Hero is central figure
• Involves battles, journeys, and heroic deeds
• Often begins in the middle of action (in medias res)
• Sometimes involves gods or supernatural elements
Famous Examples:
• The Iliad and The Odyssey by Homer (Greek)
• The Ramayana and The Mahabharata (Indian epics)
• Paradise Lost by John Milton (English)
Easy Example:
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In The Ramayana, Lord Rama fights against the evil Ravana to rescue Sita. It shows the
values of duty, loyalty, and good vs. evil — this is an epic.
2. Irony
Irony means saying something but meaning the opposite, or when something unexpected
happens, often in a humorous or dramatic way.
There are three main types of irony:
(a) Verbal Irony:
When someone says something but means the opposite.
Example: A student looks at a pile of homework and says, “Wow, I have so much free time
today!”
(b) Situational Irony:
When what actually happens is different from what was expected.
Example: A fire station burns down — that’s unexpected and ironic!
(c) Dramatic Irony:
When the audience knows something that the characters don’t.
Example: In a horror movie, the audience knows the killer is in the room, but the character
doesn’t.
3. Plot
The plot is the sequence of events or the structure of the story — how it begins, what
happens in the middle, and how it ends.
Parts of a Plot:
1. Exposition – Introduction of characters and setting
2. Rising Action – Conflict begins and tension builds
3. Climax – The turning point or the most intense moment
4. Falling Action – Events start to settle down
5. Resolution (Denouement) – The story comes to an end
Example:
In Cinderella:
• Exposition – Cinderella lives with her stepmother.
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• Rising Action – She wants to go to the ball.
• Climax – She runs away, leaving her glass slipper.
• Falling Action – The prince looks for her.
• Resolution – They marry and live happily ever after.
4. Paradox
A paradox is a statement that seems self-contradictory or impossible, but when you think
more deeply, it actually reveals a truth.
Examples:
• “I know one thing: that I know nothing.” – Socrates
• “Less is more.”
• “The beginning of the end.”
Even though these statements seem confusing, they make sense in a deeper way.
Simple Example:
Imagine a man says, “I always lie.”
If he is telling the truth, then he is lying — and if he’s lying, then he is telling the truth!
That’s a paradox — puzzling, but interesting!
II Transcribe any Ten words out of the following:
Stair, what, cough, clerk, mauve, sure, sample, tooth, yak, yawn, sing, tongue.
Ans:
1. Stair → /steə/ or /ster/ (British / American)
2. What → /wɒt/ (British), /wʌt/ (American)
3. Cough → /kɒf/ (British), /kɔːf/ (American)
4. Clerk → /klɑːk/ (British), /klɜːrk/ (American)
5. Mauve → /məʊv/ (British), /moʊv/ (American)
6. Sure → /ʃɔː/ (British), /ʃʊr/ or /ʃɜːr/ (American)
7. Sample → /ˈsɑːmpl/ (British), /ˈsæmpl/ (American)
8. Tooth → /tuːθ/
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9. Yak → /jæk/
10. Yawn → /jɔːn/
11. Sing → /sɪŋ/
12. Tongue → /tʌŋ/
SECTION-B
III. Base on the poems, answer any Five of the following questions in 5-7 sentences each:
(1) What is the "murmur" that patience prevents Milton from making in the poem
"On His Blindness"?
(2) Is beauty an immortal ideal, or is it vulnerable to time? Discuss the portrayal of beauty in
"My Mistress's Eyes Are Nothing Like The Sun".
(3) Explain the theme of beauty in Robert Burns "A Red, Red Rose",
(4) What makes a man happy, according to Alexander Pope's "Ode on Solitude"?
(5) Why did the speaker cry in the "Chimney Sweeper"?
(6) In "The Sun Rising", what is the role of the sun and why does the speaker have a problem
with that?
Ans: A Day in the Life of a Poetry Lover: Understanding the Hidden Meanings
Imagine you’re sitting under a tree with your English Literature textbook, and the breeze is
soft, your heart is calm, and your thoughts are deep. You begin reading some of the greatest
poems ever written — filled with powerful emotions, meaningful messages, and timeless
truths. But then come the questions.
Don’t worry! Let’s take a peaceful journey together, like we’re walking through a garden of
poems, picking out the meanings like flowers and enjoying every scent of poetry as we go.
Each answer below is explained with simplicity, some storytelling, and a friendly student’s
tone so that both you and the examiner enjoy every word.
(1) What is the "murmur" that patience prevents Milton from making in the poem "On His
Blindness"?
In "On His Blindness", the poet John Milton talks about a time in his life when he became
blind. He had once served God through his writing and poetry. But now, with his blindness,
he felt useless and helpless. The "murmur" here refers to his inner complaint or grumble —
his silent cry of sorrow and frustration.
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Let’s imagine a scene: Milton is sitting alone, hands folded, mind wandering. He wonders,
“How can I serve God now, when I can't even see?” He wants to complain. But then
Patience, like a gentle friend, stops him. It whispers, “God doesn’t need grand acts. Even
those who simply stand and accept their situation with faith are serving Him.”
So, the “murmur” is Milton’s unspoken question or complaint about his blindness and
whether his life has lost its purpose. Patience silences that complaint by reminding him that
even doing nothing and just being faithful is a form of service to God.
(2) Is beauty an immortal ideal, or is it vulnerable to time? Discuss the portrayal of beauty
in "My Mistress’s Eyes Are Nothing Like The Sun".
In "My Mistress’s Eyes Are Nothing Like The Sun" by William Shakespeare, the poet gives us
a refreshing idea: beauty is not always about perfection or fantasy — it’s about truth and
reality.
Many poets compare their lovers to goddesses, the sun, or sweet perfumes. But
Shakespeare does the opposite. He says, “My mistress’s eyes are nothing like the sun”. Her
lips aren’t as red as coral, her cheeks aren’t like roses — and yet, he loves her deeply and
truthfully.
So, is beauty immortal? In a way, yes — true beauty lies in honesty, not just appearance.
While physical beauty fades with time, real love that accepts imperfections lasts forever.
Imagine a couple who grow old together — their hair turns grey, their skin wrinkles — but
the love in their eyes stays young. That’s what Shakespeare celebrates: a beauty that time
cannot destroy, because it’s based on truth, not illusion.
(3) Explain the theme of beauty in Robert Burns’ "A Red, Red Rose".
Robert Burns compares his love to a freshly bloomed red rose in “A Red, Red Rose”, and
through this, he explores the theme of beauty and love together. The rose is a symbol of
natural beauty, full of freshness, fragrance, and life.
He says:
“O my Luve is like a red, red rose / That’s newly sprung in June.”
This shows how beautiful and delicate his love feels — just like the first rose of summer. The
beauty here is not just physical; it’s also emotional and deep.
But the poem goes beyond just admiring beauty. Burns uses romantic and natural imagery
to say that his love will last “Till a’ the seas gang dry” — which means forever. So even if
beauty fades, true love inspired by that beauty stays eternal.
In short, the poem celebrates beauty — but not just the outer kind. It’s about a heartfelt,
loyal love that remains beautiful, even through time and distance.
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(4) What makes a man happy, according to Alexander Pope’s "Ode on Solitude"?
Let’s imagine a man living in the countryside, far from the noise of cities. He wakes up with
birds singing, works on his small farm, eats simple food, and sleeps peacefully. He doesn’t
want fame, money, or power. That’s the happy man Alexander Pope describes in “Ode on
Solitude”.
According to Pope, happiness doesn’t come from big achievements or luxury. Instead, it
lies in:
• Living a simple, self-sufficient life
• Being close to nature
• Having peace of mind
• Avoiding fame and public attention
He even says that such a man can die peacefully, “Unseen, unknown” — and that’s a
blessing, not a loss.
So, the message is simple: true happiness comes from within, not from the outside world.
Pope teaches us to be content with small joys and to live quietly and meaningfully, like the
soft breeze that touches your face on a sunny day.
(5) Why did the speaker cry in "The Chimney Sweeper"?
The poem “The Chimney Sweeper” by William Blake tells the sad story of a little boy who is
forced to clean chimneys. He lost his mother, his father sold him into work, and now he
spends his days covered in soot, far from play and joy.
The speaker cries because:
• He has lost his childhood and innocence
• He is treated unfairly by society and adults
• He dreams of freedom and love, but reality is harsh
• He feels abandoned by those who should care for him
But even in this sadness, the boy holds on to hope. In a dream, he sees angels, green fields,
and God’s love. So he believes that if he stays good and faithful, he’ll be free and happy in
heaven.
This poem is not just about one child — it’s about all children who suffer silently. The tears
show both pain and hope — pain from injustice, but hope that someday, life will be better.
(6) In "The Sun Rising", what is the role of the sun and why does the speaker have a
problem with that?
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In John Donne’s “The Sun Rising”, the speaker is lying in bed with his beloved, enjoying a
moment of love. Suddenly, the sun enters the room, shining through the curtains. The
speaker gets annoyed.
He says, “Busy old fool, unruly Sun”. Why?
Because the sun is interrupting his private world of love. The sun controls time — it decides
when the day starts, when work begins. But the speaker wants to live outside of time, lost in
love.
He even says that his beloved is so powerful and beautiful that the sun should circle them
instead of the earth — because all the world’s wealth and glory lies in their love.
So, the sun represents:
• Time
• Duty and responsibility
• The outside world
And the speaker’s complaint is poetic — he wants to escape time and live forever in the joy
of love.
Final Thoughts – The Magic of Meaning
Through all these poems, we see how poets use simple things like roses, the sun, tears, or
silence to express deep human emotions:
• Milton teaches us faith in the face of loss.
• Shakespeare shows us love with honesty.
• Burns celebrates beauty and eternal affection.
• Pope whispers the value of quiet happiness.
• Blake cries for the innocence of children.
• Donne rebels against time in the name of love.
Each answer is not just an explanation — it’s a doorway into the poet’s heart and soul.
IV. Answer any One of the following in about 150 words:
(1) In "The Sun Rising", how John Donne expresses his intense feelings of love? Discuss.
(2) What is the central theme of Robert Herrick's poem "To the Virgins, to Make Much of
Time" and how is it developed by the poet? Discuss.
Ans: (1) In "The Sun Rising", how does John Donne express his intense feelings of love?
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In “The Sun Rising”, John Donne expresses the depth and intensity of his love by placing it
above all worldly powers, even the sun. He begins by scolding the sun, calling it a “busy old
fool” for interrupting his moment with his beloved. This shows that for Donne, love is
timeless and beyond the control of nature. He boldly says that all kings, riches, and honor lie
within the room where he and his lover rest. Through this, Donne implies that their love is a
universe in itself — more powerful than time, duty, or seasons. His tone is passionate,
playful, and confident, filled with metaphysical comparisons. By the end, he turns the sun
into a servant of their love, saying it should shine only for them. In this way, Donne elevates
his love as the center of all existence, making it eternal, dominant, and divine.
(2) What is the central theme of Robert Herrick's poem "To the Virgins, to Make Much of
Time" and how is it developed by the poet?
The central theme of Robert Herrick’s “To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time” is the idea of
“Carpe Diem”, or seize the day. The poet encourages young people, especially women, to
make the best use of their youth and beauty before time takes it away. He begins the poem
by using the image of blooming flowers that quickly wither, symbolizing the shortness of
youth. He also refers to the sun’s movement to show how time never stops. Through these
symbols, Herrick gently warns that time is running fast, and once youth is gone, it won’t
return. Therefore, he advises the readers to marry and enjoy life while they are still young
and desirable. The poem’s tone is persuasive and wise, as Herrick blends natural imagery
with life advice, making his message both poetic and practical. His theme remains relevant
even today — reminding us not to waste precious time.
SECTION-C
V. Based on the poems, answer any Five of the following questions in 5-7 sentences each:
(1) From your reading of the poem "My Last Duchess", what is your impression of the last
Duchess? Do you think she is responsible for her fate?
(2) Explain the person's admiration for autumn in the poem "To Autumn" by John Keats.
(3) "A soldier has no home but a purpose." How far is the statement applicable in the
context of the poem "To the Indian Who died in Africa"?
(4) In the poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost, do you think it is on a positive side
that he chose "the road less travelled by"?
(5) What exactly are Shelley's feelings about fame and worldly power in the poem
"Ozymandias"?
(6) What types of symbolism does William Wordsworth use in "Daffodils"?
Ans: (1) “My Last Duchess” by Robert Browning
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What is your impression of the last Duchess? Do you think she is responsible for her fate?
Let’s imagine the Duchess as a young woman full of life, someone who smiled easily at the
world. She appreciated little things — the beauty of nature, kind gestures, and compliments
from everyone. From the Duke’s story, we learn that she was sweet and friendly, but the
Duke thought her kindness was “too much” and that she didn’t value his “gift of a 900-
years-old name” enough. He seemed jealous and possessive, wanting her to smile only for
him. He viewed her cheerful nature as disrespectful or flirtatious, even though she may have
just been kind-hearted. So no, she was not responsible for her fate. It was the Duke’s ego
and control that led to her sad end.
(2) “To Autumn” by John Keats
Explain the speaker’s admiration for autumn.
In this poem, Keats treats autumn like a dear friend or a gentle goddess. He admires the way
autumn quietly brings in ripeness, fills trees with fruit, and prepares the world for rest after
the summer's busy season. Instead of focusing on decay or sadness, Keats sees beauty in
slowing down — like watching golden sunsets or hearing soft sounds of evening insects.
Autumn is not just a season for him; it’s a moment of peace, richness, and fulfillment. He
praises how it balances life — not too fast, not too slow — just calm and full of natural
poetry. His admiration lies in the maturity, calmness, and warmth that autumn brings to the
earth and to the heart.
(3) “To the Indian Who Died in Africa” by T.S. Eliot
"A soldier has no home but a purpose." How far is this true in the context of the poem?
In this poem, the Indian soldier is far away from his real home — not in Punjab or Bengal,
but in the African battlefield, where he fought and died in World War I. He was not fighting
for personal gain or even for his own country, but for the British Empire, which ruled India
at the time. Yet, he did not turn away from his duty. Even without glory, recognition, or a
familiar land, he stood firm in his purpose — loyalty, courage, and sacrifice. That’s why the
line “a soldier has no home but a purpose” is deeply fitting here. His real home was not a
physical place but his commitment and bravery, which makes his sacrifice even more noble.
(4) “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost
Do you think it was a positive decision to choose the road less travelled?
Imagine standing at a fork in the woods — one path is wide and full of footprints, the other
is narrow and grassy. Most people would choose the first, but Frost’s speaker chooses the
second — the one “less travelled by.” It shows his courage to be different, to take risks and
make his own unique journey. The poet says this choice “has made all the difference,” and
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though he doesn’t clearly say whether it was good or bad, there’s a sense of quiet pride and
reflection in his voice. It suggests that taking a bold path in life brings deep satisfaction,
even if it’s uncertain. So yes, it seems to be a positive decision — not because it was easy,
but because it was truly his own.
(5) “Ozymandias” by P.B. Shelley
What are Shelley’s feelings about fame and worldly power?
Shelley’s message is like a whisper from history — a reminder that nothing lasts forever, not
even the greatest kings. In the desert stands a broken statue of Ozymandias, a ruler who
once bragged, “Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!” But now, all that remains is
ruins and empty sand. Shelley shows that fame and power are illusions — they fade with
time, while nature and truth remain. Through this poem, he criticizes human arrogance,
especially of leaders who think they are above everyone else. His feelings are clear: worldly
power is temporary, and real greatness lies not in monuments but in humility and timeless
values.
(6) “Daffodils” by William Wordsworth
What types of symbolism does Wordsworth use in "Daffodils"?
In this poem, the daffodils are more than just flowers — they are symbols of joy, beauty,
and the healing power of nature. Wordsworth was walking lonely when he saw a field of
daffodils “fluttering and dancing in the breeze.” In that moment, nature spoke to his soul,
lifting him out of sadness and filling him with peace. The daffodils symbolize the kind of
happiness that comes from simple things — not money or fame, but quiet beauty. Later,
even when he is alone in his room, the memory of the daffodils returns to comfort him,
showing they also symbolize lasting inner peace. For Wordsworth, they are a bridge
between nature and the heart, showing how deeply nature can affect the human spirit.
VI. Explain any One of the following stanzas with reference to the context:
(1) I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads
diverged in a wood, and 1-I took the one less travelled by, And that has made
all the difference
(2) Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness,
Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun; Conspiring with him how to load and bless With
fruit the vines that round the thatch-evés run; To bend with apples the moss'd cottage-
trees, And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core; To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel
shells With a sweet kernel; to set budding more, And still more, later flowers for the
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bees, Until they think warm days will never cease, For summer has o'er-brimm'd their
clammy cells.
Ans: Part 1: “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost
Stanza to be explained:
“I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less travelled by,
And that has made all the difference.”
A Journey Through the Woods – Story Approach
Let’s imagine you’re on a morning walk in a dense forest. You reach a point where the path
splits into two. There’s no signboard, no guide. One path looks well-worn, like many have
taken it before. The other path is grassy, wild, and seems untouched.
Now you must choose. You can’t go both ways.
This is the situation the poet Robert Frost faced in his life. And he turned it into a powerful
metaphor for the choices we all make in life.
Reference to the Context
These lines are from the final stanza of the poem “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost, an
American poet known for writing about nature and human emotions. In this poem, the poet
stands at a symbolic crossroads and reflects on how his decision to choose an unusual or
different path has changed his life.
Explanation of the Stanza (in Simple Words)
In this stanza, the poet imagines himself in the future, looking back at this moment. He says:
"I shall be telling this with a sigh / Somewhere ages and ages hence"
This means, “One day, far in the future, I will tell the story of this choice I made — not with
regret, but with a thoughtful sigh.” This sigh could be one of relief, nostalgia, or even
wonder.
He then recalls the decision:
"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— / I took the one less travelled by"
Here, the poet proudly shares that he didn’t follow the crowd. He chose the road that fewer
people chose — the more difficult or unconventional path.
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"And that has made all the difference."
This final line is very powerful. It tells us that the poet's life changed completely because of
that one bold decision. The “difference” may be success, satisfaction, struggle, or learning
— but it was unique and important to him.
Moral and Deeper Meaning
This poem is not just about a walk in the forest. It’s a symbolic lesson about life:
• Every day, we make choices — big and small.
• Some choices are safe and popular, others are unusual and risky.
• The poet encourages us to be brave and take the path we believe in, even if others
don’t.
Relatable Student Example
Imagine two friends after school — Riya wants to become a dancer, while Priya wants to be
a doctor. Everyone praises Priya and tells Riya that dancing isn’t a “safe” choice.
But Riya chooses to follow her dream — the road less travelled. Years later, she becomes a
famous choreographer and looks back with a sigh — “That choice made all the difference.”
Conclusion
Frost teaches us that life is full of choices, and we shouldn’t be afraid to choose our own
unique path. These lines make us reflect on our own decisions and remind us to live life
bravely, thoughtfully, and honestly.
Part 2: “To Autumn” by John Keats
Stanza to be explained:
“Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness,
Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun;
Conspiring with him how to load and bless
With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eves run;
To bend with apples the moss’d cottage-trees,
And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core;
To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel shells
With a sweet kernel; to set budding more,
And still more, later flowers for the bees,
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Until they think warm days will never cease,
For summer has o’er-brimm’d their clammy cells.”
A Picture-Perfect Autumn – Imaginary Scene
Close your eyes and picture this:
You’re walking in a countryside village in the early morning. There’s mist in the air, the trees
are full of ripe apples, pumpkins and nuts are fat and ready to pick, and bees are buzzing
lazily because they think it’s still summer.
This is the picture that the poet John Keats paints in this stanza. He makes Autumn feel like
a gentle, generous friend — calm, kind, and full of beauty.
Reference to the Context
These lines are from the first stanza of the poem “To Autumn” by John Keats, one of the
greatest Romantic poets. This poem is actually a tribute to the season of Autumn, which he
describes as peaceful, fruitful, and full of natural beauty. The poet compares Autumn to a
person — a close friend of the sun — and shows how they work together to fill the world
with ripeness and abundance.
Explanation of the Stanza (in Simple Words)
“Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, / Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun”
Here, Keats calls Autumn the season of fog and soft richness. He personifies (gives human
qualities to) Autumn, saying it is the “close friend” of the sun. Together, they help fruits
ripen and the world grow.
“Conspiring with him how to load and bless / With fruit the vines…”
This means Autumn and the sun seem to be planning together how to bless the Earth —
especially the vines and plants that grow around cottages — with lots of fruits.
“To bend with apples the moss’d cottage-trees, / And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core”
The apple trees are so full that their branches bend under the weight, and all fruits are filled
with sweetness and ripeness.
“To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel shells / With a sweet kernel”
The pumpkins (gourds) grow round and full. The hazelnuts also become fat and filled with
sweet seeds inside.
“To set budding more, / And still more, later flowers for the bees…”
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Autumn extends summer’s blessings by making even more flowers bloom. The bees are
happy because they get lots of nectar.
“Until they think warm days will never cease, / For summer has o’er-brimm’d their clammy
cells.”
The bees are so busy collecting nectar that they believe the warm summer will never end,
because their honeycombs are overflowing.
Message and Beauty of the Stanza
This stanza is a celebration of nature. It teaches us to appreciate the present moment — the
beauty of life, the rewards of patience, and the richness of simple things like fruits, flowers,
bees, and sunshine.
Student Understanding – Real-Life Connection
In school, we often think of autumn as a time of exams or endings. But Keats tells us to look
at autumn with gratitude and joy. It’s a time when hard work bears fruit — just like after
months of studying, you finally get results.
Autumn is also a symbol of maturity. Just like students who slowly grow wiser over time,
nature too ripens slowly, gently, and gracefully.
SECTION-D
VII. Answer any Two of the following in about 150 words each:
(1) Explain the signifiance of the title of the play A Doll's House.
(2) Is A Doll's House a faminist play? Discuss.
(3) Compare the relationship between Mrs. Linde and Krogstad with that of Nora and
Torvald.
Ans: (1) Explain the significance of the title of the play A Doll’s House.
The title A Doll’s House reflects the central theme of the play — the artificial and controlled
life of Nora Helmer in her marriage and home. Nora is treated like a “doll” by her husband,
Torvald. He calls her pet names like “little skylark” or “squirrel,” which show that he sees her
as something pretty and playful — not as an equal human being.
Just like a doll lives in a dollhouse, doing whatever the owner wants, Nora lives in a house
where she has no real freedom or identity. Her opinions, decisions, and even her role as a
mother are controlled by societal expectations and her husband.
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The house itself becomes a symbol of a fake and decorative life. By the end of the play, Nora
realizes she must leave the doll’s house to discover who she truly is, giving the title a deeper
and more powerful meaning.
(2) Is A Doll’s House a feminist play? Discuss.
Yes, A Doll’s House is often seen as a feminist play because it challenges the traditional roles
of women in society and marriage. The main character, Nora, begins the play as a typical
housewife, doing what her husband wants and focusing only on family life. But as the story
progresses, she realizes that she has no identity, freedom, or voice of her own.
Nora’s decision to leave her husband and children at the end was shocking in the 19th
century when the play was written. It became a powerful symbol of women’s right to
independence and self-respect.
Ibsen himself said that he wrote the play not just to support feminism, but to fight for
individual freedom. Still, the play became a major influence on feminist thinking because it
shows a woman questioning and eventually rejecting the unfair roles given to her by society
and marriage.
(3) Compare the relationship between Mrs. Linde and Krogstad with that of Nora and
Torvald.
The relationship between Mrs. Linde and Krogstad is based on honesty, equality, and mutual
respect, while the relationship between Nora and Torvald is full of lies, control, and
inequality.
Mrs. Linde and Krogstad have both suffered in life and have made mistakes. They accept
each other with full awareness of their pasts. When they reunite, it is not for convenience
but for emotional support and companionship. Their love is real and based on
understanding.
On the other hand, Nora and Torvald’s marriage looks perfect on the outside but is deeply
flawed. Torvald treats Nora like a child or a possession, not like an equal partner. Nora
keeps secrets to protect her husband’s pride, and Torvald values reputation more than her
feelings.
By showing these two contrasting relationships, Ibsen highlights the importance of truth and
respect in a real partnership, and criticizes the traditional, unequal roles in marriage.
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VIII. Answer the following:
Discuss the dramatic structure of Henrik Ibsen's play A Doll's House.
Ans: Once Upon a Stage…
Imagine a beautifully decorated room, it’s Christmas time, and a woman named Nora walks
in happily carrying shopping bags. From the outside, everything looks perfect — a cozy
home, a loving husband, playful children. But deep inside that lovely home, something is
quietly cracking…
This is how Henrik Ibsen’s famous play A Doll’s House begins. But don’t be fooled by the
festive atmosphere — this play is not just about Christmas or gifts, it’s about truth, identity,
and freedom.
To truly understand how Ibsen crafts this powerful story, we need to look at its dramatic
structure — the way he builds the story scene by scene, act by act, to create suspense,
tension, and a shocking conclusion.
Let’s go on a journey through the five-part dramatic structure of A Doll’s House in a way that
feels like a real unfolding story.
What is Dramatic Structure?
Before diving into Ibsen’s play, let’s first understand what dramatic structure means.
You can think of dramatic structure like the blueprint of a building or the skeleton of a story.
It gives the play its shape — helping the story rise, reach a climax, and then fall toward a
resolution.
The classic dramatic structure, inspired by Aristotle and further developed over time, has
five key stages:
1. Exposition – The beginning or setup
2. Rising Action – The conflict begins and builds
3. Climax – The turning point
4. Falling Action – The consequences unfold
5. Resolution (or Denouement) – The ending or conclusion
Now, let’s apply this structure to Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, act by act, with explanations,
examples, and a touch of storytelling.
1. Exposition – Setting the Stage (Act I)
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The play opens on a warm Christmas Eve. Nora, the wife of Torvald Helmer, enters their
home with gifts and excitement. She seems like a cheerful, carefree woman — sweet, silly,
and somewhat childlike.
But Ibsen immediately gives us clues that things are not as they appear.
Important Things Introduced in Act I:
• Nora’s “doll-like” personality
• Torvald’s patronizing behavior (calling her pet names like “little skylark” and “little
squirrel”)
• Nora’s secret — she borrowed money illegally to save Torvald’s life
Student Insight: At first glance, Nora seems like a typical 19th-century housewife. But
Ibsen is planting seeds — hinting that she’s hiding something big. This setup stage is like the
calm before the storm.
Why It’s Effective:
Ibsen doesn’t throw drama in our faces right away. Instead, he pulls us gently into the
world, making us comfortable — and then he starts shaking the foundation.
2. Rising Action – Trouble Brews (End of Act I to Act II)
Now the tension begins to rise.
Enter Krogstad, a man from Nora’s past who knows her secret. He blackmails her: If you
don’t stop Torvald from firing me, I’ll tell him everything!
Nora is terrified. She tries everything to protect her secret:
• She pleads with Torvald
• She distracts him with talk of costumes and parties
• She even considers drastic actions
Emotional Rollercoaster:
• Nora’s fear and guilt grow stronger.
• Torvald’s true nature becomes clearer — he cares more about reputation than Nora.
• Krogstad and Mrs. Linde (Nora’s old friend) add more tension and complexity.
Student Insight: The rising action shows Nora trying to control the situation, but we
sense she’s losing control. The audience is left wondering: What will happen when Torvald
finds out?
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Why It’s Engaging:
Ibsen increases the pressure step by step — like turning the heat up under a pot until it’s
ready to boil over.
3. Climax – The Shocking Turn (End of Act III)
Finally, the moment we’ve been waiting for: Torvald discovers the truth.
Nora’s worst fear comes true — Krogstad’s letter arrives, and Torvald reads it.
Here’s what happens:
• Torvald explodes in anger
• He calls Nora unfit to be a mother and wife
• He says their marriage is over
• But then — another letter arrives: Krogstad won’t reveal the secret anymore
Suddenly, Torvald calms down and says everything is fine.
But for Nora, it’s too late.
The Real Climax:
It’s not just about the letter — it’s about Nora waking up. She realizes:
• “You never really loved me. You just played with me — like I was a doll.”
• She decides to leave the house, her husband, and even her children — to find her
own identity.
Student Insight: This is the turning point not just in the story, but in Nora’s life. The
obedient wife becomes a questioning, independent woman.
Why It’s Powerful:
The climax shocks the audience, especially in the 19th century when women were expected
to be silent and submissive. Nora walking out the door is like an earthquake shaking
traditional gender roles.
4. Falling Action – The Aftermath
After the explosion comes silence.
Torvald is stunned. He begs Nora to stay, promises to change. But Nora has made up her
mind.
She tells him:
“I must educate myself. I must stand on my own two feet.”
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She leaves, and the door slams behind her.
This moment has become one of the most famous endings in theatre history — the “door
slam heard around the world.”
Student Insight: The falling action is short but emotionally intense. It’s the first time we
see Nora completely in control of her life. The fear, guilt, and confusion are replaced with
clarity.
Why It Works:
It shows that the real drama is not in the arguments or blackmail — but in self-realization
and inner transformation.
5. Resolution – The End or the Beginning?
Unlike traditional plays, where everything ends happily or is neatly resolved, A Doll’s House
ends with uncertainty.
Nora walks out of her home. We don’t know what happens next. Will she survive on her
own? Will she come back someday?
But Ibsen leaves us with a clear message: This is not the end of the story — it’s the
beginning of Nora’s real life.
Student Insight: The play’s resolution is bold and open-ended. It forces the audience to
think and question: What is a woman’s role in society? Is marriage a partnership or a prison?
Why It’s Groundbreaking:
Ibsen refuses to give easy answers. He makes us uncomfortable, and that’s exactly what
makes this play unforgettable.
“This paper has been carefully prepared for educational purposes. If you notice any mistakes or
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