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English Literature 10th

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English Literature 10th

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ICSE 2026
ENGLISH
LITERATURE
Paper-2

CLASS 10

Chapter-wise Question Bank

NODIA AND COMPANY

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ICSE English Literature Paper-2 Class 10
Edition April 2025
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Contents
ICSE Exam Paper 2025 5-12

I. DRAMA: Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare

Julius Caesar 13-16

1. Julius Caesar Act 3 17-64

2. Julius Caesar Act 4 65-114

3. Julius Caesar Act 5 115-186

II. TREASURE CHEST: A Collection of ICSE Short Stories & Poems

PROSE (Short Stories):

1. With the Photographer – Stephen Leacock 189-208

2. The Elevator – William Sleator 209-228

3. The Girl Who Can – Ama Ata Aidoo 229-254

4. The Pedestrian – Ray Bradbury 255-276

5. The Last Lesson – Alphonse Daudet 277-296

POETRY:

1. Haunted Houses – H.W. Longfellow 299-318

2. The Glove and the Lions – Leigh Hunt 319-336

3. When Great Trees fall – Maya Angelou 337-354

4. A Considerable Speck – Robert Frost 355-372

5. The Power of Music – Sukumar Ray 373-392

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ICSE chapterwise QB Class 10 English literature page 5
English Literature Exam 2025

ICSE Examination Paper 2025

LITERATURE IN ENGLISH
English Paper - 2
Time allowed : 2 Hours Maximum marks : 80

1. Answer to this Paper must be written on the paper provided separately.

2. You will not be allowed to write during the first 15 minutes.
3. This time is to be spent in reading the question paper.
4. The time given at the head of this Paper is the time allowed for writing the answers.
5. The paper has four Sections.
6. Section A is compulsory – All questions in Section A must be answered.
7. You must attempt one question from each of the Sections B, C and D and one question from any Section of
your choice.
8. The intended marks for questions or parts of questions are given in brackets [ ].

SECTION-A
(b) Caesar had left seventy-five drachmas for
every citizen of Rome
(c) Mark Antony would be permitted to speak at
(Attempt all questions from this Section.)
Caesar’s funeral
(d) The conspirators would be punished for
QUESTION 1.
assassinating Caesar
Choose the correct answers to the questions from the
Ans :
given options. [16]
(a) Caesar’s greed for power and possession had
(Do not copy the questions, write ONLY the correct
resulted in his death
answers.)
After Caesar’s assassination, Brutus justifies the
(i) What does Antony describe as, ‘thou bleeding killing by calling it the payment for Caesar’s
piece of earth,’ ? “ambition.” In the conspirators’ eyes, Caesar’s
(a) Caesar’s robe that was stained with his blood desire for absolute power endangered Rome’s
(b) The blood-soaked spot on which Caesar lies republican values, so they believed removing him
(c) The bloodied pedestal on which Caesar fell was the price he paid for his ambition.
(d) Caesar’s lifeless body covered in blood
(iii) After Antony’s speech following Caesar’s
Ans : assassination, the angry mob kills _____.
(d) Caesar’s lifeless body covered in blood (a) Cinna the conspirator
In Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Antony addresses (b) Cinna the poet
Caesar’s corpse as a “bleeding piece of earth” to (c) Decius Brutus
highlight that Caesar—once a mighty ruler—now (d) Cicero
lies lifeless and bloodied on the ground. This vivid Ans :
image underlines Antony’s grief and foreshadows
(b) Cinna the poet
his determination to seek vengeance for Caesar’s
In the confusion and rage following Antony’s
death.
funeral oration, the crowd mistakenly targets
(ii) When Brutus says, ‘ambition’s debt is paid’, he Cinna the poet, thinking he is Cinna the
means that _____. conspirator. Even after he protests that he is only
(a) Caesar’s greed for power and possession had a poet, the mob’s anger boils over, and they kill
resulted in his death him in a frenzy meant for the conspirators.

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ICSE EXAMINATION PAPER 2025

(iv) When Antony says, ‘He must be taught, and (vii) In the poem, ‘Haunted Houses’, what does the
train’d, and bid go forth: A barren-spirited fellow,’ speaker see at his fireside that the stranger
he refers to _____ cannot?
(a) Octavius (a) the speaker only sees what is physically
(b) Lucilius present
(c) Lucius (b) the stranger can see the spirits while the
(d) Lepidus speaker cannot
Ans : (c) the speaker sees both the present and the
past
(d) Lepidus
(d) the stranger sees both the present and the
In Julius Caesar, after forming the Second
future
Triumvirate, Antony criticizes Lepidus as someone
Ans :
who needs instruction and lacks independent
spirit. He calls Lepidus “barren-spirited,” (c) the speaker sees both the present and the
meaning he has no real initiative or imagination, past
so Antony sees him merely as someone to be used In Longfellow’s poem “Haunted Houses,” the
and trained for their political purpose. speaker senses not only the physical objects around
him but also the lingering presence of past memories
(v) Who were the members of the Second Triumvirate,
and spirits. A stranger, lacking personal ties to the
formed to rule over Rome after Caesar’s
place, would only see the present, but the speaker is
assassination?
deeply aware of past events and feelings.
(a) Julius Caesar, Crassus, Pompey
(b) Marcus Brutus, Caius Cassius, Casca (viii) In the poem, ‘The Glove and the Lions,’ who does
(c) Mark Antony, Octavius Caesar, Lepidus Count de Lorge “sigh for”?
(d) Octavius Caesar, Julius Caesar, Mark Antony (a) The lions that ramped and roared
(b) King Francis who loved a royal sport
Ans :
(c) The nobles who filled the benches
(c) Mark Antony, Octavius Caesar, Lepidus (d) The beauteous lively dame
Following Caesar’s assassination, power in Rome
Ans :
is shared by three leaders known as the Second
Triumvirate. Mark Antony, Caesar’s loyal friend; (d) The beauteous lively dame
Octavius, Caesar’s heir; and Lepidus, a high- In Leigh Hunt’s poem, Count de Lorge originally
ranking officer, form this alliance. Together, they performs a daring act to retrieve a glove for a lady
seek to maintain control over Rome and avenge who carelessly tosses it among lions. However, her
Caesar’s death. lack of appreciation makes him cast the glove back
at her. Still, the poem implies his initial longing
(vi) Which of the following words best describes
(sighing) is for that fair lady.
Cassius’s mood when he says:
“Come, Antony, and young Octavius, come, (ix) Select the option that shows the correct
Revenge yourselves alone on Cassius,” relationship between Statements (1) and (2) from
(a) anxious Maya Angelou’s poem, ‘When Great Trees Fall’:
(b) regretful Statement 1 : When great trees fall, the world is
(c) fearful left permanently unstable.
(d) frustrated Statement 2 : In the poem, the natural world is
depicted as reacting with fear and uncertainty
Ans :
when great trees fall.
(d) frustrated (a) (1) is false, but (2) is true.
Cassius, facing defeat and foreseeing possible (b) Both (1) and (2) are false.
disaster, sounds exasperated and resigned. He (c) (1) is true, but (2) is false.
invites Antony and Octavius to take their revenge (d) Both (1) and (2) are true.
directly on him. Rather than showing simple fear
Ans :
or regret, his words express frustration and a
readiness to accept whatever fate has in store. (d) Both (1) and (2) are true.
Angelou’s poem shows that when towering figures
(great trees) are lost, the world does become
unstable and fearful. Nature and people alike

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ICSE chapterwise QB Class 10 English literature page 7

react with uncertainty. So, both statements—(1) prompting the question, “Is it me?” due to the
that the world is left permanently unstable and extreme modifications.
(2) that nature reacts with fear—correctly reflect (xiii) In the short story, ‘The Elevator’ which of the
the poem’s portrayal of loss. following does Martin’s father NOT do when
(x) The poem, A Considerable Speck, expresses Martin expresses his fear of the elevator?
Frost’s ______ (a) He dismisses Martin’s concerns
(a) love for the little organism (b) He encourages Martin to use the stairs
(b) respect for intelligent life (c) He tells Martin to grow up and be brave
(c) indifference to the tiny creature (d) He watches TV and ignores Martin’s fear
(d) anger at the mite’s escape Ans :
Ans : (b) He encourages Martin to use the stairs
(b) respect for intelligent life Martin’s father teases him, dismisses his fears,
Robert Frost notices a tiny speck (a mite) on his and tells him to be brave, but never suggests
page and realizes it exhibits purposeful, intelligent taking the stairs as an alternative. Instead of
movement. Rather than squashing it, he honors trying to help Martin avoid scary elevator rides,
this small life’s capacity for thought and will. the father focuses on ridiculing Martin’s fear or
Through gentle humor, Frost reveals his respect ignoring him, showing little sympathy or practical
for any hint of intelligence, no matter how small. support.
(xi) Which of the given options contains the figure of (xiv) Choose the option that lists the sequence of events
speech that appears in the following line from the from Ray Bradbury’s short story, The Pedestrian:
poem, ‘The Power of Music’ ? 1. One night, as he was nearing home, he was
And in the sky the featheréd fly turn turtle while stopped by a police car
They’re winging,
(a) You’re one month on in the middle of May 2. Since his answers were considered odd and
(b) Rainbow-tinted circles of light unacceptable, he was forced to enter the car
(c) And life is too much like a pathless wood and taken away
(d) The wind lies asleep in the arms of the dawn 3. Leonard Mead loved to walk through the
Ans : empty streets at night

(a) You’re one month on in the middle of May 4. A metallic voice from the car asked him a
In “And in the sky the featheréd fly turn turtle series of questions
while They’re winging,” repeated consonant (a) 2, 1, 3, 4
sounds (“turn turtle,” “featheréd fly”) create (b) 1, 3, 4, 2
alliteration. Line (a)—“You’re one month on in (c) 3, 1, 4, 2
the middle of May”—also features alliteration (d) 4, 1, 2, 3
with repeated “m” sounds (month, middle, May), Ans :
matching the style in the poem’s line.
(c) 3, 1, 4, 2
(xii) In the short story, ‘With the Photographer’, Chronological order in Bradbury’s dystopian
the narrator asks the photographer, “Is it me?” story of an unusual pedestrian is as follows :
because _____. 3. Leonard Mead loves walking at night.
(a) he is delighted with the photographer’s skill 1. One night, nearing home, a police car stops
(b) he looks very handsome in the photograph him.
(c) he is unable to recognise his own face 4. A metallic voice questions him.
(d) he is ashamed of how he looks in the picture 2. Finding his answers odd, the car forces him
Ans : inside.
(c) he is unable to recognise his own face (xv) Where was Adjoa born?
Stephen Leacock’s humorous short story (a) Nigeria
describes a photographer who heavily retouches (b) Ghana
the narrator’s photo, making him nearly (c) Ethiopia
unrecognizable. When he sees the print, the (d) Kenya
narrator is shocked and wonders if it’s really him,

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ICSE EXAMINATION PAPER 2025

Ans : (i) What does Antony say he is there for? [3]

(b) Ghana What does he say he is not there for?
In the story featuring the character Adjoa (often What do you think he is actually there for?
from literary works referencing West African Ans :
culture), she is identified as being from Ghana. Antony says he has come to bury Caesar, fulfilling
This sets the backdrop for her experiences and the funeral rites. He insists he is not there to praise
highlights aspects of Ghanaian life or perspectives, Caesar, distancing himself from open adulation. In
distinguishing her origins from other African truth, he aims to sway public opinion against the
countries mentioned in the options. conspirators. By appearing humble and obedient,
(xvi) Why did M. Hamel have to leave the school after Antony builds trust, then subtly incites outrage
forty years of service? over Caesar’s murder.
(a) He was not allowed to teach French any longer (ii) What were the three conditions that Brutus had
(b) He had grown tired of his job as a schoolteacher laid down before allowing Antony to speak to the
(c) He was thought to be too strict in his ways citizens of Rome? [3]
(d) He wanted to retire and take up farming
Ans :
Ans :
Brutus insisted that Antony must not criticize
(a) He was not allowed to teach French any longer the conspirators in his speech. He had to mention
In Alphonse Daudet’s “The Last Lesson,” M. that he was speaking with their permission,
Hamel is forced to give up teaching French preserving their honor. Additionally, Antony was
because the new authorities decree that only required to address the people only after Brutus
German can be taught in Alsace and Lorraine. had finished, ensuring Brutus’s version reached
After four decades of dedicated service, he must citizens first. Hence, Brutus believed he could
leave, making his final lesson deeply emotional for shape the public’s perception of their deed.
him and his students.
(iii) List the three arguments that Antony uses
immediately after he speaks these lines to
SECTION-B prove conclusively that Julius Caesar was not
ambitious. [3]
(Answer one or more questions from this Section.)
Ans :
The three arguments are as follows :
DRAMA 1. Caesar thrice refused a crown, rejecting
(Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare) absolute power.
2. He wept with the poor, showing empathy
QUESTION 2. rather than ambition.
3. He filled Rome’s treasury with spoils from his
Read the extract from ‘Julius Caesar’ Act 3, Scene campaigns, not keeping wealth for himself.
2, given below and answer the questions that follow: By highlighting these facts, Antony dismantles
Antony : Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend the claim that Caesar was driven by ambition.
me your ears; These points emphasize Caesar’s humility and
I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him; genuine concern for Rome.
The evil that men do lives after them;
The good is oft interred with their bones; (iv) Antony repeatedly uses certain words in his
So let it be with Caesar. The noble Brutus speech to describe Brutus.
Hath told you Caesar was ambitious; What are they? Why does he do this? [3]
If it were so, it was a grievous fault, Ans :
And grievously hath Caesar answer’d it. Antony calls Brutus “an honourable man”
Here, under leave of Brutus and the rest— repeatedly, appearing to commend him. However,
For Brutus is an honourable man; the repeated phrase soon takes on a sarcastic
So are they all, all honourable men— tone that undermines Brutus’s virtue. By echoing
Come I to speak in Caesar’s funeral. “honourable,” Antony sows doubt and makes the
crowd question whether the conspirators acted

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ICSE chapterwise QB Class 10 English literature page 9

nobly or simply disguised their self-interest under (ii) To what does Brutus refer when he says: ‘the
the guise of honor. work which the ides of March begun’ ? [3]
How was that work begun?
(v) Which one argument of Antony’s do you think What political change would take place in Rome
had the greatest impact on his listeners? Give a if Brutus and Cassius lose this battle?
reason to support your answer. [4]
What were the citizens’ feelings towards Antony Ans :
before he began his speech? “The work which the ides of March begun” refers
How do their feelings towards him change at the to Caesar’s assassination, initiated to protect
end of his speech? Rome from tyranny. It started on March 15th
Ans : when Caesar was stabbed. If Brutus and Cassius
fail at Philippi, Antony and Octavius will seize
The reading of Caesar’s will, promising money power, thus overturning the Republican ideals
and public land, most powerfully moved the Brutus wanted to safeguard.
crowd. This final act of generosity contradicts
accusations of ambition, revealing Caesar’s (iii) Earlier in this scene, Cassius had confided to
genuine care for Rome. Messala a strange occurrence that he had observed
Initially, the citizens were cautious or even when his army was on its way from Sardis to
supportive of Brutus. After Antony’s emotional Philippi. [3]
revelations, they rallied behind him, thirsting for Describe this strange occurrence.
revenge against the conspirators.
Ans :
As they traveled from Sardis to Philippi,
QUESTION 3.
Cassius saw two eagles devouring food from
Read the extract from ‘Julius Caesar’ Act 5, Scene his soldiers’ hands. The next day, the eagles
1, given below and answer the questions that follow: vanished, replaced by ravens and crows hovering
Cassius : Then, if we lose this battle, ominously. Cassius took this sudden shift as a bad
You are contented to be led in triumph omen, foreshadowing defeat and tragedy in the
Through the streets of Rome? approaching conflict.
Brutus : No, Cassius, no: think not, thou noble
(iv) How does Brutus die? [3]
Roman,
How does his manner of dying contradict the
That ever Brutus will go bound to Rome;
philosophy by which he had lived his life?
He bears too great a mind. But this same day
Must end that work the ides of March begun; Ans :
And whether we shall meet again I know not. Brutus dies by running onto his own sword, held
Therefore our everlasting farewell take: out by Strato. Although he once claimed suicide
For ever, and for ever, farewell, Cassius! contradicted his Stoic beliefs, he chooses death
If we do meet again, why, we shall smile; over capture, prioritizing personal honor above
If not, why then, this parting was well made. his earlier philosophy. This final action highlights
(i) Why does Brutus say, ‘No, Cassius, no’ ? [3] the tension between his principled ideals and the
What conditions may force Brutus to go bound harsh reality of potential disgrace.
to Rome? (v) At the end of the play, Antony calls Brutus, ‘the
Brutus says, ‘And whether we shall meet again I noblest Roman of them all’. Why does he say
know not.’ What do these words imply? this? [4]
Ans : What does this reveal of Antony’s character?
Brutus emphatically rejects Cassius’s idea that he Ans :
might be led as a prisoner if they lose. He refuses Antony calls Brutus “the noblest Roman of them
to surrender his honor under any conditions, all” because Brutus alone joined the conspiracy for
declaring he will never go “bound to Rome.” By Rome’s welfare, not out of envy or ambition. This
saying, “And whether we shall meet again I know statement shows Antony’s fair-minded nature:
not,” Brutus acknowledges the possibility of their even though they were enemies, Antony admires
deaths in battle. Brutus’s honorable motives, distinguishing him
from the other conspirators driven by self-interest.

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ICSE EXAMINATION PAPER 2025

SECTION-C (iv) How does the story end?

Bring out the element of horror in the ending.
[3]

(Answer one or more questions from this Section) Ans :

PROSE - SHORT STORIES In the final scene, Martin, trapped in his cast,
(Treasure Trove – A Collection of Poems and Short enters the elevator and faces the woman again.
Stories) She utters his name—“Hello, Martin”—and the
doors slide shut, leaving the reader with a chilling
QUESTION 4. sense of doom. This abrupt ending heightens the
horror, implying something dreadful may happen
Read the following extract from William Sleater’s
behind those closed doors.
short story, ‘The Elevator’ and answer the questions
that follow: (v) What was Martin’s father’s opinion of him? [4]
Martin felt nervous when he got back to the What does this reveal to us about his father’s
building after school. But why should he be afraid character?
of an old lady? He felt ashamed of himself. He Ans :
pressed the button and stepped into the elevator, Martin’s father sees him as overly timid and
hoping that it would not stop, but it stopped on imagines he is simply exaggerating the entire
the third floor. Martin watched the door slide situation. He dismisses Martin’s fears, telling him
open… to “grow up” and use the elevator. This response
(i) Who entered the elevator when the door slid reveals the father’s unsympathetic nature and
open? [3] lack of understanding, showing he is quick to
Describe this person. judge rather than offer support.
Ans :
A large, heavyset older woman steps in. She barely QUESTION 5.
speaks and gazes coldly ahead, making Martin Read the following extract from Alphonse Daudet’s
uneasy. Her bulk crowds the small elevator, and short story, ‘The Last Lesson’ and answer the
her eerie silence adds to Martin’s discomfort. Her questions that follow:
fixed stare, pale appearance, and intimidating “My children, this is the last lesson I shall
presence amplify his fear each time they share give you. The order has come from Berlin to
that cramped space. teach only German in the schools of Alsace and
(ii) Why was Martin afraid of using this elevator? [3] Lorraine. The new master comes tomorrow.
This is your last French lesson. I want you to be
Ans :
very attentive.
Martin fears the rickety, claustrophobic elevator, What a thunder-clap these words were to me!
but more specifically, he dreads encountering Oh the wretches; that was what they had put up
the silent, unsettling woman who rides it. Her at the town-hall!”
looming figure and unnerving stare fuel his
(i) What does the word, ‘that’ in the extract refer
anxiety. Compounded by the elevator’s narrow
to? [3]
interior and creaking sounds, Martin can’t shake
What other ‘bad news’ had the villagers received
the feeling that something sinister might happen
from the bulletin board outside the town-hall?
inside those metal walls.
Ans :
(iii) What led to Martin’s fall down the stairs? [3]
What did it result in? “That” refers to the new order from Berlin
requiring only German to be taught in Alsace and
Ans :
Lorraine. The villagers often received bad news
Terrified of meeting the woman again, Martin from that bulletin board, such as announcements
opts for the stairs instead of the elevator. In his about lost battles, new army drafts, or forced
rush and panic, he slips and tumbles, breaking requisitions. Now, the forced switch from French
his leg. This injury forces him to wear a cast, to German was another harsh blow.
ultimately leaving him no choice but to use the
very elevator he dreads.

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ICSE chapterwise QB Class 10 English literature page 11

(ii) How does the narrator describe the daily bustle at

the start of a typical school day? [3]
SECTION D
Ans : (Answer one or more questions from this Section)

On a usual school morning, the narrator describes POETRY

a lively, noisy scene with students racing in, desks
(Treasure Trove – A Collection of Poems and Short
banging, and the teacher’s ruler tapping to keep
Stories)
order. People outside would bustle about their
daily tasks, and the sounds of opening and closing
desks created a familiar chaos before lessons QUESTION 6.
properly began. Read the following extract from Leigh Hunt’s poem,
(iii) What was different on that morning when he ‘The Glove and the Lions’ and answer the questions
arrived late for school? [3] that follow :
And truly ‘twas a gallant thing to see that
Ans : crowning show,
That morning felt eerily quiet and solemn. The Valour and love, and a king above, and the royal
usual clatter of desks and chatter was missing. M. beasts below.
Hamel wore his special Sunday clothes, and the (i) Describe the scene at the beginning of the poem.
entire class, including elderly villagers, sat silently [3]
like guests at an important ceremony. This solemn
atmosphere made the narrator’s late arrival feel Ans :
more uncomfortable than ever. At the start, King Francis sits high above a
(iv) What thoughts filled the narrator’s head when he grand arena, surrounded by nobles on benches
heard the above announcement? [3] overlooking fierce lions in a pit. Trumpets sound,
and excited spectators watch the majestic beasts
Ans : pace and roar. The atmosphere is charged with
When M. Hamel announced it was the last both regal splendor and the anticipation of a
French lesson, the narrator felt shock and regret. dangerous, thrilling show.
He suddenly treasured every word of French, (ii) “Leigh Hunt uses vivid sound and visual images
remembering times he’d skipped lessons or to describe the contest between the royal beasts
resented homework. He realized how precious in the pit.” Justify with close reference to the
his language was, panicking that he might never text. [3]
properly learn or hear it taught again.
Ans :
(v) What does M. Hamel urge his listeners never to
forget? [4] Hunt evokes the lions’ snarls and roars echoing
M. Hamel writes a few words on the board at the around the pit, intensifying the crowd’s
end of the lesson. What were they? excitement. We picture their gleaming eyes,
Wheat does he hope to inspire through his words powerful bodies, and sweeping tails as they circle
and actions on the day? each other before the fight. Through words like
“ramped” and “roared,” the poem immerses us in
Ans : the raw spectacle of sight and sound.
M. Hamel urges everyone to preserve their French (iii) Who was the ‘beauteous lively dame’ mentioned
identity and never forget their language. At the in the poem? [3]
end, he writes “Vive La France!” on the board. What did she do?
Through this bold farewell, he hopes to inspire What prompted her to do this?
enduring pride and resistance. Even though they
must learn German officially, he wants the French Ans :
spirit to remain unbroken. She is a noblewoman watching the lion fight,
admired for her captivating looks and spirited
demeanor. To test Count de Lorge’s devotion,
she intentionally drops her glove into the lions’
pit, expecting him to retrieve it as proof of his
courage and unwavering love for her.

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ICSE EXAMINATION PAPER 2025

(iv) Explain the following lines in your won words: [3] “speck” and “mite” emphasizes its tiny, barely
(a) ‘smiling lips and sharp britht eyes which visible nature. These terms show the narrator’s
always seemed the same’ initial assumption that the thing was insignificant,
until he realized it was actually alive.
(b) ‘the occasion is divine’
(ii) What was the narrator doing when he spotted the
(c) ‘Faith, gentlemen, we’re better here than speck? [3]
there’ Which two words from the poem helped you come
Ans : to this conclusion?
(a) These words describe the lady’s constant, Ans :
somewhat mysterious expression. Her He was in the midst of writing when he noticed
pleasant smile and piercing gaze never change, the speck moving on his paper. Clues like “line”
suggesting a calm self-confidence or possible and “writing” in the poem suggest he had just
hidden intentions. begun composing text. Spotting the mite on his
(b) This phrase implies that the event or moment page made him pause and observe it more closely.
is so grand and impressive it feels almost
(iii) What made him realise that he was dealing with
sacred. It reflects the court’s belief that
witnessing such bravery is an extraordinary, ‘an intelligence’ ? [3]
even heavenly, opportunity. Ans :
(c) Here, someone remarks they prefer staying He saw the speck pausing, then purposefully
safely on the benches rather than being in the altering its path. This intentional movement
pit. They acknowledge the lions’ danger and suggested more than random drifting—it showed
believe remaining on the spectators’ side is planning or awareness. The narrator recognized
far wiser. that only a living creature with some form of
(v) When King Francis exclaims, “rightly done!”, what thought or will could change direction to avoid
action of Count de Lorge does the applaud? [4] danger while crawling across the page.
Why do you think the Count behaved the way (iv) Why did the narrator conclude that the mite had
he did? feet? [3]
Ans : Ans :
The King praises Count de Lorge for throwing the When the speck adjusted its path in tiny but
retrieved glove back at the lady’s face, rejecting deliberate steps, the narrator concluded it must
her manipulative test of his bravery. The Count’s have feet. Dust would move chaotically with a
bold move reflects both resentment for her callous breath or breeze, but this creature’s controlled
challenge and a determination to preserve his self- motions indicated small, functioning limbs.
respect rather than perform shallow heroics for Its clear effort to sidestep the narrator’s pen
her amusement. confirmed it had definite, active feet.
(v) Describe the narrator’s initial response to the
QUESTION 7.
speck. [4]
Read the following extract from Robert Frost’s poem, What did he eventually decide to do about it?
‘A Considerable Speck’ and answer the questions that Why does he make this decision?
follow : What does this decision reveal of his character?
This was no dust speck by my breathing blown,
But unmistakably a living mite Ans :
With incinations it could call its own. Initially, the narrator thought of squashing it
(i) What did the narrator first imagine the ‘speck’ to because it interfered with his writing. However,
be? [3] he decided to spare the mite, moved by its
What does his use of the words ‘speck’ and ‘mite’ intelligence. This choice shows his respect for
tell us about it? any form of awareness, no matter how small. His
compassion and open-mindedness highlight a
Ans : gentle, thoughtful side to his character.
At first, the narrator believed it was merely a
speck of dust blown by his breath. Calling it a EN

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 eNGLISH LITERATURE page 13

DRAMA
Julius Caesar
By William Shakespeare

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 eNGLISH LITERATURE page 15

INTRODUCTIO
The play Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare is a historical drama set in ancient Rome. It tells the story
of the events leading up to the assassination of Julius Caesar and the chaos that follows. The play explores
themes like ambition, power, loyalty, and betrayal. It begins with Caesar’s growing popularity, which worries
some Roman leaders. They plot to kill him to protect the Republic, but his death leads to conflict, speeches
that stir the people, and a tragic civil war.

ABOUT THE AUTHO

William Shakespeare (1564–1616) is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights and poets in
English literature. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Shakespeare produced a remarkable body of
work, including 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and two long narrative poems. Known as the Bard of Avon, his
plays are celebrated for their rich language, complex characters, and timeless themes. Some of his most
famous works include Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Macbeth, and Othello. Julius Caesar, one of his renowned
tragedies, explores themes of power, betrayal, and honor. His works continue to influence literature and
drama worldwide.

MAIN CHARACTER
1. Julius Caesar : A powerful Roman leader whose ambition and arrogance lead to his assassination. Despite
his death in Act III, his influence shapes the events that follow.
2. Brutus : A noble Roman and close friend of Caesar who joins the conspiracy out of a sense of honor and
duty to Rome. He is torn between loyalty to Caesar and his commitment to the Republic.
3. Cassius : The mastermind behind the conspiracy against Caesar, motivated by envy and political rivalry. He
manipulates others, including Brutus, to achieve his goals.
4. Mark Antony : A loyal friend of Caesar who seeks to avenge his death. His powerful oratory turns the
Roman populace against the conspirators.
5. Octavius Caesar : Julius Caesar’s adopted heir and one of the leaders of the Second Triumvirate. He emerges
as a shrewd and authoritative figure by the play’s end.
6. Calpurnia : Julius Caesar’s wife, who warns him against going to the Senate on the Ides of March, foreseeing
danger through her dreams.

MORAL OF THE DRAM

The moral of Julius Caesar teaches that greed for power and betrayal can lead to terrible consequences. The
conspirators, like Brutus and Cassius, think killing Caesar will save Rome from a dictator. But their plan
causes chaos and war instead. The play shows that using violence or betrayal, even if it seems like the right
thing, only brings more problems and harm to everyone involved.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 17

CHAPTER
1
JULIUS CAESAR : ACT 3

SUMMAR hands to symbolize freedom and peace for

Rome.
• Antony’s Message : Antony sends his servant
to assure the conspirators of his loyalty if
SCENE 1 they spare him.
This scene captures the climactic assassination of
Caesar, the conspirators’ justifications, and Antony’s 5. Antony Meets the Conspirators
masterful manipulation to prepare for revenge, setting • Antony’s Grief : Antony mourns Caesar’s
the stage for the unfolding chaos in Rome. death, calling his body a tragic end for a
great man.
1. Warnings Ignored • Antony’s Offer : Antony asks to die beside
• Artemidorus’s Letter : Artemidorus tries to Caesar if the conspirators plan to kill him,
hand Caesar a letter warning him about the but Brutus denies his request.
conspiracy, but Caesar dismisses it, prioritizing • Handshake of Deceit : Antony shakes hands
public matters over personal ones. with the conspirators, outwardly aligning
• Soothsayer’s Warning : The Soothsayer also with them while secretly vowing revenge.
tries to warn Caesar, but he ignores it.
6. The Funeral Agreement
2. The Assassination Begins
• Antony’s Plea : Antony asks to speak at
• Cassius’s Fear : Cassius grows anxious, Caesar’s funeral.
thinking the plot has been discovered. • Cassius’s Doubts : Cassius opposes the idea,
• Antony Distracted : Trebonius leads Antony fearing Antony will incite the crowd.
away from the Senate, ensuring he is not • Brutus’s Approval : Brutus permits Antony to
present during the assassination. speak, with conditions that he cannot blame
3. Caesar’s Refusal and Death the conspirators and must speak positively of
Caesar.
• Metellus’s Plea : Metellus Cimber kneels
before Caesar, begging for his brother Publius 7. Antony’s True Intentions
Cimber’s return to Rome.
• Caesar’s Response : Caesar refuses, comparing • Antony’s Soliloquy : Left alone with Caesar’s
his resolve to the constancy of the Northern body, Antony reveals his true intentions. He
Star. vows to avenge Caesar’s death and predicts
• The Stabbing : Casca strikes first, followed civil war and Rome’s destruction.
by the conspirators, with Brutus delivering
the final blow. 8. Octavius’s Warning
• Caesar’s Last Words : Shocked by Brutus’s • Octavius’s Servant : Antony advises
betrayal, Caesar utters, “Et tu, Brute?” and Octavius’s servant to keep Octavius out of
dies. Rome temporarily.
• Plan in Motion : Antony plans to gauge the
4. Aftermath of the Assassination
public’s reaction during his funeral speech to
• Conspirators Celebrate : The conspirators decide the next steps.
rejoice, smearing Caesar’s blood on their

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

5. Caesar’s Will
SCENE 2
• Antony reads Caesar’s will, revealing that
This scene demonstrates Antony’s masterful
Caesar left his wealth and personal gardens
manipulation of rhetoric to turn public opinion
to the people of Rome.
against the conspirators, setting the stage for civil
• The revelation enrages the mob, who now
unrest and conflict.
view Caesar as a generous leader betrayed by
1. Brutus Addresses the Crowd the conspirators.
• The plebeians gather in the Forum; some 6. The Aftermath
follow Cassius, while others stay to hear
• The mob riots, vowing to burn the homes of
Brutus.
the conspirators and honor Caesar.
• Brutus’s Justification : Brutus explains
• Antony’s Success : Antony celebrates the
Caesar’s assassination, stating that he loved
chaos his speech has caused.
Caesar as much as anyone but valued Rome
• Arrival of Allies : Lepidus and Octavius
more.
Caesar arrive in Rome, and Antony learns
• He claims Caesar’s ambition threatened
that Cassius and Brutus have fled, further
Rome’s freedom and argues that his actions
solidifying his triumph.
were for the greater good of the Republic.
• Brutus appeals to the crowd’s sense of honor,
inviting any dissenters to speak up. SCENE 3
• Reaction : The crowd is impressed by his
This short yet powerful scene illustrates the dangerous
speech and praises Brutus, calling him
consequences of mob mentality and how Antony’s
honorable.
manipulation of the crowd’s emotions has plunged
2. Antony’s Funeral Oration Rome into chaos. It also underscores the growing
unrest and foreshadows the wider violence to come.
• Opening Tone : Antony begins his speech
with subtle sarcasm, referring to Brutus and 1. Cinna the Poet Encountered
the conspirators as “honourable men.”
• Cinna the poet is stopped by an angry mob
• Caesar’s Virtues : Antony highlights Caesar’s
while on his way to attend Caesar’s burial.
compassion for the poor, his refusal of the
• The mob, already riled up by Antony’s
crown, and his contributions to Rome’s
speech, begins interrogating him, bombarding
wealth.
him with questions about his identity and
• He questions whether such acts align with the
purpose.
accusation of ambition.
2. Mistaken Identity
3. The Crowd’s Shift
• When Cinna introduces himself, the mob
• Antony avoids directly inciting rebellion,
mistakes him for Cinna the conspirator.
claiming he would rather wrong Caesar than
• Despite his pleas and insistence that he is a
dishonor Brutus and the others.
poet and not a conspirator, the mob refuses
• He subtly stirs the crowd by suggesting
to listen.
Caesar’s love for them was great, though he
withholds revealing Caesar’s will initially to 3. Brutality of the Mob
avoid provoking them.
• The mob, driven by blind rage, declares that
4. Emotional Appeal even bad poetry is reason enough to kill him.
• They proceed to beat Cinna the poet to
• Caesar’s Cloak : Antony evokes sympathy by
death, showcasing their uncontrollable anger
showing Caesar’s bloodied cloak, recounting
and irrationality.
his betrayal, and emphasizing Brutus’s role in
the assassination. 4. Further Chaos
• This imagery of Brutus’s betrayal as the most
• After killing Cinna, the mob continues its
painful blow moves the crowd emotionally,
rampage, shouting out the names of the
stirring unrest.
conspirators and vowing to loot and burn
their homes.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 19

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION Ans

(b) Luck with the enterprise
Popilius’s ambiguous statement unsettles Cassius,
who fears the plot has been discovered. However,
SCENE 1 Brutus reassures him that Popilius does not
1. What does Caesar say about the Ides of March? know their plans, as Caesar’s demeanor remains
(a) It has passed. unchanged.
(b) It has come but not gone.
5. What does Trebonius do during the assassination?
(c) He fears it.
(a) Leads Antony away
(d) It is a lucky day.
(b) Stabs Caesar first
Ans (c) Proclaims liberty
(b) It has come but not gone. (d) Calms the crowd

The Soothsayer warns Caesar that although the Ans

Ides of March has arrived, danger is still present. (a) Leads Antony away
This foreshadows the unfolding events of Caesar’s
Trebonius ensures that Antony is not present
assassination later in the scene.
during Caesar’s assassination by leading him out
2. Who gives Caesar a letter warning him of the of the Senate chamber. This isolates Caesar and
plot? removes a potential defender.
(a) Brutus
6. What does Metellus Cimber plead to Caesar?
(b) Decius
(a) Allow his brother’s return
(c) Artemidorus
(b) Forgive Antony
(d) Trebonius
(c) Delay the Senate
Ans (d) Read Artemidorus’s letter
(c) Artemidorus Ans
Artemidorus attempts to warn Caesar by handing (a) Allow his brother’s return
him a letter revealing the conspiracy against him. Metellus petitions Caesar to allow his banished
However, Caesar dismisses it, prioritizing public brother, Publius Cimber, to return to Rome.
concerns over personal safety, which ultimately This plea is part of the conspirators’ strategy to
leads to his downfall. distract Caesar and position themselves for the
attack.
3. What does Caesar prioritize over Artemidorus’s
letter? 7. How does Caesar describe his decisions?
(a) His safety (a) Flexible
(b) Public matters (b) Firm as the Northern Star
(c) Senate’s respect (c) Dependent on the Senate
(d) Metellus’s petition (d) Temporary
Ans Ans
(b) Public matters (b) Firm as the Northern Star
Caesar states that what concerns him personally Caesar likens himself to the Northern Star,
must come last, demonstrating his focus on public emphasizing his steadfastness and immovability.
duty. This decision reflects his arrogance and This metaphor highlights his arrogance and
overconfidence, as he underestimates the danger. unwillingness to be swayed by others.
4. What does Popilius wish Cassius? 8. Who strikes Caesar first?
(a) Good health (a) Casca
(b) Luck with the enterprise (b) Brutus
(c) Safety in Rome (c) Cassius
(d) Victory in battle (d) Cinna

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

Ans Trebonius reports that Antony fled to his house in

(a) Casca shock. This marks Antony’s initial reaction before
he later confronts the conspirators.
Casca delivers the first blow, signaling the start
of the assassination. The conspirators then follow,
13. How does Antony react when he meets the
with Brutus delivering the final stab.
conspirators?
9. What are Caesar’s final words? (a) He demands their arrest.
(a) “Rome shall rise.” (b) He offers his own life.
(b) “Et tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar.” (c) He flees the Senate.
(c) “Tyranny is dead.” (d) He forgives them.
(d) “I die for Rome.” Ans
Ans (b) He offers his own life.
(b) “Et tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar.” Antony expresses his grief by asking the
Caesar’s last words express his shock and conspirators to kill him beside Caesar if they
heartbreak at Brutus’s betrayal. This line has intend to harm him.
become iconic, symbolizing ultimate betrayal by
a trusted ally. 14. How does Brutus reassure Antony?
(a) They will protect him.
10. What does Cinna proclaim after Caesar’s death? (b) They will punish Caesar’s enemies.
(a) “Rome is free.” (c) They acted out of love for Rome.
(b) “Liberty and freedom!” (d) Antony can leave safely.
(c) “Tyranny is dead!”
(d) “Rejoice, Senators!” Ans

Ans (c) They acted out of love for Rome.

(b) “Liberty and freedom!” Brutus explains that the assassination was
necessary for the greater good of Rome and
Cinna declares Caesar’s death as the end of assures Antony of his safety.
tyranny, portraying the assassination as an act of
liberation for Rome. This reflects the conspirators’ 15. What condition does Brutus impose on Antony’s
justification for their actions. speech?
11. What symbolic act does Brutus suggest after the (a) Do not blame the conspirators.
assassination? (b) Praise Brutus specifically.
(a) Bathe in Caesar’s blood (c) Leave Rome after the speech.
(b) Burn Caesar’s possessions (d) Speak first before Brutus.
(c) Write a letter to the Senate Ans
(d) Take Caesar’s body to the market
(a) Do not blame the conspirators.
Ans Brutus allows Antony to speak at Caesar’s funeral
(a) Bathe in Caesar’s blood but forbids him from criticizing the conspirators
Brutus tells the conspirators to smear Caesar’s to prevent stirring public anger.
blood on their hands and swords to symbolize 16. What does Antony vow in his soliloquy?
their unity and their act of freeing Rome from (a) To avenge Caesar’s death
tyranny. (b) To unite Rome
12. Who reports Antony’s reaction to Caesar’s death? (c) To support Brutus
(a) Trebonius (d) To forgive the conspirators
(b) Decius Ans
(c) Cinna
(a) To avenge Caesar’s death
(d) Metellus
Left alone with Caesar’s body, Antony swears
Ans revenge against the conspirators and predicts
(a) Trebonius chaos in Rome.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 21

17. What does Antony predict for Rome? Ans

(a) Prosperity (a) “Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war.”
(b) Civil war and chaos
Antony uses this phrase to predict the chaos and
(c) Peace and unity
violence that will follow Caesar’s assassination.
(d) A brighter future
Ans 22. What does Antony say about Caesar’s wounds?
(a) They beg for justice.
(b) Civil war and chaos (b) They show tyranny.
Antony foresees bloodshed and destruction, (c) They prove his weakness.
describing a future filled with violence as revenge (d) They will heal Rome.
for Caesar’s death.
Ans
18. Who brings news of Octavius’s approach to (a) They beg for justice.
Rome?
Antony personifies Caesar’s wounds as crying
(a) Antony’s servant
out for revenge, emphasizing the gravity of the
(b) Octavius’s servant
assassination.
(c) A messenger
(d) Brutus 23. How does Antony plan to use Caesar’s funeral?
Ans (a) To turn the crowd against the conspirators
(b) To unite the Senate
(b) Octavius’s servant (c) To announce Octavius as leader
Octavius’s servant informs Antony that Octavius (d) To leave Rome peacefully
is near Rome, setting the stage for the power
Ans
struggle to follow.
(a) To turn the crowd against the conspirators
19. What does Antony describe Rome as?
Antony intends to use his funeral speech to sway
(a) Mourning and dangerous
the public against the conspirators and ignite
(b) Victorious and strong
rebellion.
(c) Peaceful and united
(d) Fearful and weak 24. Who does Antony warn about the current state
Ans of Rome?
(a) Octavius
(a) Mourning and dangerous (b) Brutus
Antony warns Octavius’s servant that Rome is (c) Cassius
unsafe following Caesar’s assassination. (d) Trebonius

20. What does Antony plan to do with Caesar’s body? Ans

(a) Display it in the marketplace (a) Octavius
(b) Bury it privately
Antony advises Octavius to stay away from Rome
(c) Burn it immediately
temporarily, warning him of the instability after
(d) Send it to Octavius
Caesar’s death.
Ans
25. What does Antony predict about Caesar’s spirit?
(a) Display it in the marketplace (a) It will seek revenge.
Antony plans to present Caesar’s body to the (b) It will guide Rome to peace.
people as part of his funeral speech, aiming to stir (c) It will haunt Brutus alone.
their emotions. (d) It will be forgotten.

21. What phrase does Antony use to foreshadow war? Ans

(a) “Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war.” (a) It will seek revenge.
(b) “Rome shall burn in fury.”
Antony predicts that Caesar’s spirit will avenge
(c) “War will consume the city.”
his death, bringing destruction and chaos to
(d) “Caesar shall rise in vengeance.”
Rome.

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

26. “The ides of March are come.” Caesar compares himself to the Northern Star to
“Ay, Caesar, but not gone.” emphasize his unwavering nature and refusal to
These lines suggest that the Soothsayer is pardon Publius Cimber.
_____.
(a) persistent 30. “Et tu, Brute? Then fall, Caesar.”
(b) fearful “Liberty! Freedom! Tyranny is dead!”
(c) indifferent These lines reflect that Caesar feels _____.
(d) confident (a) betrayed
(b) hopeful
Ans (c) indifferent
(a) persistent (d) vengeful
The Soothsayer’s response emphasizes his Ans
persistence in warning Caesar that the danger is (a) betrayed
not yet over.
Caesar’s final words reveal his sense of betrayal by
27. “What touches us ourself shall be last served.” Brutus, followed by the conspirators proclaiming
“Delay not, Caesar; read it instantly.” freedom from tyranny.
These lines reflect that Caesar is _____.
(a) arrogant 31. When Caesar says, “The ides of March are come,”
(b) cautious the Soothsayer responds that _____.
(c) humble (a) the danger has passed
(d) dismissive (b) Caesar is safe
(c) the ides of March are not gone
Ans (d) the gods will protect Caesar
(d) dismissive Ans
Caesar dismisses Artemidorus’s urgent plea, (c) the ides of March are not gone
prioritizing public matters over his personal
safety, which highlights his dismissive attitude. The Soothsayer’s response emphasizes that the
prophesied danger is still present, serving as a
28. “I wish your enterprise today may thrive.” forewarning of Caesar’s assassination.
“For look, he smiles, and Caesar doth not change.”
These lines suggest that Cassius is _____. 32. When Artemidorus asks Caesar to read his letter,
(a) relieved Caesar _____.
(b) suspicious (a) refuses, saying personal matters must wait
(c) confident (b) reads it immediately
(d) nervous (c) hands it to Brutus
(d) accuses Artemidorus of madness
Ans
Ans
(b) suspicious
(a) refuses, saying personal matters must wait
Popilius Lena’s ambiguous statement raises
Cassius’s suspicion, though Brutus reassures him Caesar dismisses Artemidorus’s urgent plea,
that their plot remains undiscovered. prioritizing public concerns over his safety,
showcasing his arrogance and overconfidence.
29. “I am constant as the Northern Star,
Of whose true fixed and resting quality there is no 33. When Popilius Lena wishes Cassius good fortune,
fellow in the firmament.” Cassius _____.
These lines show that Caesar is _____. (a) ignores him
(a) resolute (b) becomes suspicious that their plot is
(b) fearful discovered
(c) forgiving (c) confesses the conspiracy to Popilius
(d) regretful (d) decides to flee the Senate

Ans Ans

(a) resolute (b) becomes suspicious that their plot is discovered

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 23

Popilius’s cryptic comment alarms Cassius, 3. Brutus addresses the Senators and calms
making him fear that their conspiracy to them.
assassinate Caesar has been revealed. 4. They prepare to speak at the pulpit.
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4
34. When Caesar says, “I am constant as the Northern (b) 2, 3, 1, 4
Star,” he is referring to _____. (c) 3, 1, 2, 4
(a) his inflexibility and resolute nature (d) 1, 2, 3, 4
(b) his love for Rome
(c) his desire to pardon Publius Cimber Ans
(d) his fear of betrayal (d) 1, 2, 3, 4
Ans The conspirators first bathe in Caesar’s blood,
(a) his inflexibility and resolute nature proclaim liberty, calm the Senators, and then
prepare to justify their actions to the people.
Caesar compares himself to the unchanging
Northern Star to assert his unwavering resolve, 38. Choose the option that lists the sequence of
particularly in refusing to pardon Publius Cimber. Brutus’s instructions to Antony.
1. Antony must not blame the conspirators.
35. When Caesar utters, “Et tu, Brute? Then fall, 2. Antony can speak at Caesar’s funeral.
Caesar,” he expresses _____. 3. Antony must speak in the same pulpit as
(a) anger at Brutus Brutus.
(b) betrayal and resignation 4. Antony must highlight Caesar’s greatness.
(c) relief at his death (a) 2, 1, 4, 3
(d) forgiveness for Brutus (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
Ans (c) 4, 1, 3, 2
(d) 2, 3, 1, 4
(b) betrayal and resignation
Ans
Caesar’s final words reflect his heartbreak at
Brutus’s betrayal and his acceptance of death, as (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
it comes from someone he deeply trusted. Brutus allows Antony to speak under
conditionsAntony must not blame the conspirators,
36. Choose the option that lists the correct sequence
speak in the same pulpit, and focus on Caesar’s
of events during Caesar’s final moments.
greatness.
1. Caesar refuses to pardon Publius Cimber.
2. The conspirators kneel before Caesar. 39. Choose the sequence of Antony’s actions after the
3. Casca strikes the first blow. conspirators leave.
4. Caesar utters, “Et tu, Brute?” and falls. Antony vows revenge for Caesar’s death.
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 Antony predicts civil strife in Rome.
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3 Antony mourns Caesar and apologizes to his
(c) 3, 2, 1, 4 body.
(d) 2, 4, 3, 1 Antony sends a message to Octavius.
Ans (a) 3, 1, 2, 4
(b) 1, 3, 4, 2
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4
(c) 4, 3, 1, 2
The conspirators kneel to distract Caesar, he (d) 2, 4, 3, 1
refuses to pardon Cimber, Casca initiates the
Ans
attack, and Caesar falls after recognizing Brutus’s
betrayal. (a) 3, 1, 2, 4
Antony first mourns Caesar, vows revenge,
37. Choose the correct sequence of the conspirators’
predicts chaos in Rome, and finally sends a
actions after Caesar’s death.
message to Octavius to prepare for the turmoil.
1. The conspirators bathe their hands in
Caesar’s blood. 40. Choose the option that lists the sequence of
2. They proclaim liberty and freedom in the warnings Caesar ignores before his death.
streets.

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

1. The Soothsayer reminds Caesar of the Ides of 43. Select the option that shows the correct
March. relationship between statements (1) and (2):
2. Artemidorus asks Caesar to read his letter. Statement 1 : Caesar declares he is as constant as
3. Decius lures Caesar to the Senate with the Northern Star.
flattery. Statement 2 : Caesar refuses to pardon Publius
4. Popilius Lena wishes the conspirators luck. Cimber.
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) 2, 1, 4, 3 (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) 1, 3, 4, 2 (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) 4, 2, 1, 3 (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Ans Ans
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Caesar first dismisses the Soothsayer, ignores Caesar uses the metaphor of the Northern Star
Artemidorus’s letter, is flattered by Decius to to emphasize his firmness and refusal to change
attend the Senate, and fails to notice Popilius his decision about Publius Cimber’s banishment.
Lena’s ominous comment.
44. Select the option that shows the correct
41. Select the option that shows the correct relationship between statements (1) and (2):
relationship between statements (1) and (2): Statement 1 : Casca strikes Caesar first, followed
Statement 1 : The Soothsayer warns Caesar that by the other conspirators.
the Ides of March are not gone. Statement 2 : Caesar falls after uttering the
Statement 2 : Caesar dismisses the warning and words, “Et tu, Brute?”
proceeds to the Capitol. (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Ans
Ans
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Casca’s first strike begins the assassination, and
The Soothsayer’s warning is unrelated to Caesar’s Caesar succumbs to the combined attack after
decision to proceed, as Caesar dismisses all realizing Brutus’s betrayal.
warnings out of arrogance, not because he reflects
on them. 45. Select the option that shows the correct
relationship between statements (1) and (2):
42. Select the option that shows the correct Statement 1 : Antony requests to speak at
relationship between statements (1) and (2): Caesar’s funeral.
Statement 1 : Popilius Lena wishes Cassius good Statement 2 : Brutus agrees but warns Antony
fortune in his enterprise. not to blame the conspirators.
Statement 2 : Cassius fears that their conspiracy (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
has been discovered. (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. Ans

Ans (c) (1) is the cause for (2).

(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Antony’s request prompts Brutus to grant
permission under the condition that Antony
Popilius’s ambiguous statement raises Cassius’s refrains from criticizing the conspirators during
suspicion, causing him to believe their plot has his speech.
been exposed.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 25

SCENE 2 Brutus explains that while he deeply loved Caesar,

his love for Rome and its welfare was greater. This
46. What do the Plebeians demand at the beginning statement demonstrates his belief in prioritizing
of the scene? the common good over personal loyalties.
(a) Justice
(b) Satisfaction 50. How do the Plebeians react to Brutus’s speech?
(c) Caesar’s will (a) They call him a traitor.
(d) Antony’s speech (b) They support him and praise his honor.
(c) They demand further explanation.
Ans (d) They turn against him immediately.
(b) Satisfaction Ans
At the beginning of the scene, the Plebeians demand (b) They support him and praise his honor.
an explanation for Caesar’s assassination. They
want to be assured that the murder was justified, The Plebeians accept Brutus’s justification for
reflecting their confusion and uncertainty about Caesar’s assassination and praise him as honorable
the events and the intentions of the conspirators. and noble, showing how easily they are swayed by
persuasive rhetoric.
47. What does Brutus ask Cassius to do?
(a) Speak to the crowd 51. What promise does Brutus make regarding his
(b) Take some Plebeians to another street own life?
(c) Defend their actions publicly (a) He will die for Rome if needed.
(d) Join him in the pulpit (b) He will never betray the Senate.
(c) He will protect the Plebeians.
Ans (d) He will remain Caesar’s ally.
(b) Take some Plebeians to another street Ans
Brutus instructs Cassius to address a group of (a) He will die for Rome if needed.
Plebeians in another street while he speaks to
those gathered before him. This strategy allows Brutus declares that he would willingly die for
both conspirators to explain their actions to Rome if it ever demanded his sacrifice. This
different parts of the crowd simultaneously. statement highlights his loyalty to the Republic
and his willingness to place the state above
himself.

48. What reason does Brutus give for killing Caesar? 52. How do the Plebeians suggest honoring Brutus?
(a) Caesar was a tyrant. (a) By making him king
(b) Caesar was ambitious. (b) By building a statue
(c) Caesar betrayed Rome. (c) By giving him Caesar’s position
(d) Caesar ignored the Senate. (d) All of the above
Ans Ans
(b) Caesar was ambitious. (d) All of the above
Brutus justifies the assassination by claiming The Plebeians suggest honoring Brutus in several
that Caesar’s ambition threatened the freedom of ways, such as building a statue or making him
Rome. He frames the act as a sacrifice to preserve their leader, showing their admiration for his
the Republic rather than a personal betrayal. perceived nobility and patriotism.

49. What does Brutus claim about his love for Caesar? 53. Who does Brutus leave the Plebeians with?
(a) He loved Caesar less than others. (a) Cassius
(b) He loved Caesar equally as others. (b) Antony
(c) He loved Rome more than Caesar. (c) The Senate
(d) He never loved Caesar. (d) Caesar’s corpse
Ans Ans
(c) He loved Rome more than Caesar. (b) Antony

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

Brutus departs after asking the Plebeians to Ans

listen to Antony speak about Caesar’s virtues. He (c) They once loved him.
trusts Antony to reinforce their justification for
Antony reminds the Plebeians of their previous
the assassination.
loyalty to Caesar, questioning why they have so
54. What does Antony initially claim about his quickly abandoned their admiration for him.
speech?
58. What personal item does Antony use to evoke
(a) It is a tribute to Caesar.
sympathy?
(b) It is for Brutus’s sake.
(a) Caesar’s crown
(c) It will incite rebellion.
(b) Caesar’s will
(d) It will praise Brutus.
(c) Caesar’s mantle
Ans (d) Caesar’s sword
(b) It is for Brutus’s sake. Ans
Antony starts his speech by claiming he speaks (c) Caesar’s mantle
only because Brutus permitted him to. This
Antony displays Caesar’s mantle, pointing out the
creates an appearance of deference, allowing him
marks made by the conspirators’ daggers, to elicit
to gain the trust of the Plebeians before subtly
pity and stir the Plebeians’ emotions.
challenging Brutus’s claims.
59. How does Antony describe Brutus’s betrayal?
55. How does Antony refer to Brutus and the
(a) A necessary act
conspirators?
(b) The most unkindest cut of all
(a) Tyrants
(c) A mistake made in haste
(b) Honorable men
(d) A minor offense
(c) Traitors
(d) Murderers Ans
Ans (b) The most unkindest cut of all
(b) Honorable men Antony describes Brutus’s betrayal as the most
painful blow to Caesar, emphasizing the deep
Antony repeatedly refers to Brutus and the
trust Caesar had in Brutus and the devastating
conspirators as “honorable men,” using irony to
impact of his treachery.
undermine their credibility while maintaining a
tone of respect to avoid suspicion. 60. What does Antony claim about Caesar’s will?
(a) It is private.
56. What does Antony claim about Caesar’s ambition?
(b) It will make the Plebeians angry.
(a) It was true.
(c) It leaves gifts for the Plebeians.
(b) It was a lie.
(d) It names Antony as heir.
(c) It lacked evidence.
(d) It was exaggerated by Brutus. Ans
Ans (c) It leaves gifts for the Plebeians.
(c) It lacked evidence. Antony reveals that Caesar’s will includes
provisions for the citizens of Rome, increasing
Antony provides examples, such as Caesar
their admiration for Caesar and anger toward the
refusing the crown, to challenge Brutus’s claim
conspirators.
of ambition, casting doubt on the justification for
Caesar’s assassination. 61. How do the Plebeians react to Caesar’s will?
(a) They demand it be read.
57. How does Antony describe the Plebeians’ past
(b) They dismiss it as a lie.
feelings for Caesar?
(c) They side with the conspirators.
(a) They hated him.
(d) They remain silent.
(b) They were indifferent to him.
(c) They once loved him. Ans
(d) They distrusted him. (a) They demand it be read.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 27

The Plebeians are eager to hear the will after 66. What does Antony say about his own oratory
Antony hints at its contents, showcasing Caesar’s skills?
generosity toward the Roman citizens. (a) He is a plain blunt man.
(b) He is more skilled than Brutus.
62. What does Antony show to incite the Plebeians? (c) He has no power to persuade.
(a) Caesar’s sword (d) Both a and c
(b) Caesar’s body
(c) Caesar’s will Ans
(d) Caesar’s crown (d) Both a and c
Ans Antony humbly describes himself as a plain
(b) Caesar’s body speaker to appear sincere, contrasting his style
with Brutus’s and subtly manipulating the
Antony reveals Caesar’s corpse, highlighting the Plebeians.
brutal wounds inflicted by the conspirators, which
stirs the Plebeians’ anger and thirst for revenge. 67. Who informs Antony about Octavius’s arrival in
Rome?
63. What phrase does Antony use to foreshadow (a) A servant
chaos? (b) Lepidus
(a) “Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war.” (c) A messenger
(b) “Rome shall fall into madness.” (d) Brutus
(c) “The conspirators shall pay.”
(d) “Revenge shall rise.” Ans

Ans (a) A servant

(a) “Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war.” A servant informs Antony that Octavius has
reached Rome, signaling the next phase of the
Antony uses this line to predict the violence and power struggle.
anarchy that will follow Caesar’s assassination,
stirring the Plebeians further. 68. How does Antony respond to the Plebeians’
64. What do the Plebeians plan to do after Antony’s mutiny?
speech? (a) He calms them temporarily.
(a) Burn Caesar’s body (b) He encourages more violence.
(b) Burn the conspirators’ houses (c) He tells them to attack the Senate.
(c) Mourn Caesar publicly (d) He advises them to seek Brutus.
(d) Support Antony Ans
Ans (a) He calms them temporarily.
(b) Burn the conspirators’ houses Antony temporarily pacifies the Plebeians,
Enraged by Antony’s speech, the Plebeians decide showing his ability to manipulate emotions and
to take revenge on the conspirators by destroying maintain control over the situation.
their homes and property.
69. What does Antony reveal about Brutus and
65. What gifts does Caesar leave the Plebeians in his Cassius’s actions?
will? (a) They fled Rome.
(a) Gold and jewels (b) They planned Caesar’s death long ago.
(b) Money and property (c) They bribed Antony to stay silent.
(c) His Senate position (d) They burned Caesar’s will.
(d) His mantle
Ans
Ans (a) They fled Rome.
(b) Money and property Antony learns that Brutus and Cassius fled the
Caesar leaves 75 drachmas and his private gardens city, fearing the consequences of the Plebeians’
to the citizens of Rome, showcasing his care for rising anger.
the people and increasing their loyalty to him.

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

70. What does Antony predict about the aftermath addressing the crowd in a manner that invites
of his speech? them to listen and consider his words thoughtfully.
(a) Mischief is afoot.
(b) Rome will prosper. 74. “This was the most unkindest cut of all.”
(c) Caesar’s death will be avenged peacefully. Antony refers to Brutus’s betrayal as _____.
(d) The conspirators will be forgiven. (a) justified
(b) insignificant
Ans (c) the deepest betrayal
(a) Mischief is afoot. (d) forgivable
Antony acknowledges that his speech has incited Ans
chaos, signaling the beginning of rebellion and the (c) the deepest betrayal
downfall of the conspirators.
Antony highlights that Brutus’s betrayal was the
71. “Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved most painful for Caesar, as it came from someone
Rome more.” he deeply trusted.
These lines show that Brutus is _____.
(a) patriotic 75. “Here is the will, and under Caesar’s seal.”
(b) ambitious Antony’s statement indicates that Caesar’s will
(c) remorseful is _____.
(d) indifferent (a) generous
(b) deceptive
Ans (c) secretive
(a) patriotic (d) unimportant
Brutus explains that his decision to kill Caesar Ans
was motivated by his love for Rome, highlighting (a) generous
his sense of duty to the Republic above personal
loyalty. Antony uses the will to reveal Caesar’s generosity
toward the people, inciting their emotions and
72. “Who is here so base that would be a bondman? turning them against the conspirators.
If any, speak, for him have I offended.”
These lines reflect that Brutus is _____. 76. “This was the most unkindest cut of all.”
(a) persuasive Antony is referring to _____.
(b) accusatory (a) Brutus’s betrayal of Caesar
(c) sorrowful (b) Cassius’s role in the conspiracy
(d) uncertain (c) Caesar’s ambition
(d) the public’s reaction to Caesar’s death
Ans
Ans
(a) persuasive
(a) Brutus’s betrayal of Caesar
Brutus uses rhetorical questions to persuade the
Plebeians that his actions were just, framing the Antony highlights Brutus’s betrayal as the deepest
assassination as a necessary act for their freedom. wound for Caesar, as it came from someone Caesar
trusted and loved the most.
73. “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your
ears.” 77. “Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved
Antony’s opening line suggests he is _____. Rome more.”
(a) grieving Brutus is justifying his action by emphasizing
(b) respectful _____.
(c) manipulative (a) his ambition
(d) indifferent (b) his patriotism
(c) his anger toward Caesar
Ans (d) his loyalty to Cassius
(b) respectful Ans
Antony begins his speech with a respectful tone, (b) his patriotism

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 29

Brutus states that his decision to kill Caesar was Ans

driven by his greater love for Rome, prioritizing (b) Brutus’s betrayal
the welfare of the Republic over personal loyalty
Antony emphasizes Brutus’s betrayal as the
to Caesar.
deepest wound, calling it the “most unkindest
78. When Brutus says, “Not that I loved Caesar less, cut” because Caesar loved and trusted Brutus
but that I loved Rome more,” he is _____. above all.
(a) patriotic
82. When Antony says, “Here is the will, and under
(b) regretful
Caesar’s seal,” he is _____.
(c) ambitious
(a) accusing Brutus of treachery
(d) indifferent
(b) highlighting Caesar’s generosity
Ans (c) criticizing the conspirators
(a) patriotic (d) justifying Caesar’s ambition

Brutus justifies Caesar’s assassination by Ans

explaining that his love for Rome and its freedom (b) highlighting Caesar’s generosity
outweighed his personal affection for Caesar,
Antony uses Caesar’s will to reveal his kindness and
demonstrating his patriotism.
generosity toward the Roman people, provoking
79. When Brutus says, “Had you rather Caesar were the Plebeians’ anger against the conspirators.
living, and die all slaves, than that Caesar were
83. Choose the option that lists the sequence of events
dead, to live all freemen?” he is _____.
correctly from Brutus’s speech to the Plebeians:
(a) accusing Caesar of treachery
1. Brutus declares he loved Rome more than
(b) questioning Caesar’s ambition
Caesar.
(c) appealing to the crowd’s sense of freedom
2. Brutus asks if anyone feels offended by his
(d) asking for the Plebeians’ forgiveness
actions.
Ans 3. Brutus explains Caesar’s ambition as the
(c) appealing to the crowd’s sense of freedom reason for his death.
4. The Plebeians support Brutus and cheer for
Brutus appeals to the Plebeians, highlighting him.
Caesar’s ambition as a threat to their liberty, (a) 3, 1, 2, 4
and frames Caesar’s death as a sacrifice for their (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
freedom. (c) 2, 1, 4, 3
(d) 4, 2, 3, 1
80. When Antony says, “Friends, Romans,
countrymen, lend me your ears,” he is _____. Ans
(a) commanding the crowd (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
(b) requesting their attention
(c) insulting Brutus Brutus begins by expressing his love for Rome
(d) introducing Caesar’s will over Caesar, explains Caesar’s ambition, asks for
feedback, and wins the Plebeians’ support with
Ans his reasoning.
(b) requesting their attention
84. Choose the correct sequence of the Plebeians’
Antony opens his speech with a respectful request reactions after Brutus’s speech:
to gain the attention of the Plebeians, preparing 1. They suggest honoring Brutus with a statue.
them to hear his arguments about Caesar’s death. 2. They agree Brutus has done no wrong.
3. They cheer, saying “Live, Brutus, live!”
81. When Antony says, “This was the most unkindest
4. They propose crowning Brutus with Caesar’s
cut of all,” he is referring to _____.
virtues.
(a) Cassius’s ambition
(a) 3, 2, 4, 1
(b) Brutus’s betrayal
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4
(c) Caesar’s faults
(c) 4, 3, 2, 1
(d) the conspirators’ cowardice
(d) 1, 4, 2, 3

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

Ans 2. The Plebeians shout for revenge and rush

(b) 2, 3, 1, 4 toward Brutus’s house.
3. Antony acknowledges that mischief has
The Plebeians first agree that Brutus has not
begun.
offended them, cheer for him, suggest honoring
4. Antony sends a servant to inform him of
him with a statue, and finally propose crowning
Octavius’s arrival.
him with Caesar’s legacy.
(a) 2, 3, 4, 1
85. Arrange the sequence of Antony’s actions during (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
his speech: (c) 1, 4, 2, 3
1. Antony refers to Caesar’s will to inflame the (d) 3, 1, 4, 2
crowd. Ans
2. Antony repeatedly calls the conspirators
“honorable men.” (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
3. Antony questions Caesar’s ambition by The Plebeians first plan revenge, march toward
mentioning the refused crown. the conspirators’ houses, Antony reflects on
4. Antony reveals Caesar’s wounds to the the chaos he has incited, and then he learns of
Plebeians. Octavius’s arrival in Rome.
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4
(b) 3, 2, 4, 1 88. Select the option that shows the correct
(c) 4, 1, 2, 3 relationship between statements (1) and (2):
(d) 2, 1, 3, 4 Statement 1 : Brutus says, “Not that I loved
Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more.”
Ans Statement 2 : The Plebeians cheer for Brutus and
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4 praise his reasoning.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Antony starts by ironically calling the conspirators
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
honorable, questions Caesar’s ambition, hints at
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
the will, and finally reveals Caesar’s wounds to
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
stir the Plebeians’ emotions.
Ans
86. Choose the correct sequence of Antony’s
statements about Caesar’s will: (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
1. Antony states Caesar left his orchards and Brutus’s justification for Caesar’s assassination
gardens for the citizens. appeals to the Plebeians, convincing them of his
2. Antony says Caesar’s will includes 75 loyalty to Rome and gaining their approval.
drachmas for each Roman.
3. Antony refuses to read the will at first. 89. Select the option that shows the correct
4. Antony finally reveals the will to the relationship between statements (1) and (2):
Plebeians. Statement 1 : Antony repeatedly refers to Brutus
(a) 3, 2, 4, 1 as “an honorable man.”
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4 Statement 2 : The Plebeians begin questioning
(c) 3, 4, 2, 1 the conspirators’ motives.
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
Ans (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(a) 3, 2, 4, 1 (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Antony initially hesitates to read the will, Ans
mentions the drachmas, reveals its contents under
pressure, and finally declares Caesar’s gifts of (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
orchards and gardens to the people. Antony’s ironic use of “honorable men” plants
doubt in the Plebeians’ minds, leading them
87. Choose the sequence of events after Antony’s to question the true motives of Brutus and the
speech concludes: conspirators.
1. The Plebeians vow to burn Caesar’s body
and the traitors’ houses.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 31

90. Select the option that shows the correct SCENE 3

relationship between statements (1) and (2):
Statement 1 : Antony mentions Caesar refusing 93. What did Cinna the poet dream of the night
the crown thrice during the feast of Lupercal. before?
Statement 2 : The Plebeians conclude that Caesar (a) Caesar’s death
was not ambitious. (b) Feasting with Caesar
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. (c) His own death
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. (d) Meeting Brutus
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Ans
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
(b) Feasting with Caesar
Ans Cinna reveals he had an ominous dream about
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). feasting with Caesar, reflecting the superstitions
Antony’s example of Caesar rejecting the crown and foreboding atmosphere surrounding the
contradicts Brutus’s claim of Caesar’s ambition, events in Rome.
persuading the Plebeians to reconsider Caesar’s 94. What does Cinna feel as he steps outside?
character. (a) He feels confident.
91. Select the option that shows the correct (b) He feels uneasy.
relationship between statements (1) and (2): (c) He feels happy.
Statement 1 : Antony lifts Caesar’s mantle and (d) He feels excited.
reveals his wounds. Ans
Statement 2 : The Plebeians weep and prepare
(b) He feels uneasy.
for revenge.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. Despite feeling reluctant to leave, Cinna states
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. that something compels him to step outside,
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). indicating an ominous premonition of danger.
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
95. What is the first question the Plebeians ask
Ans Cinna?
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (a) “What is your name?”
(b) “Where are you going?”
Antony’s dramatic gesture of showing Caesar’s (c) “Who are you?”
wounds evokes pity and rage in the Plebeians, (d) “Are you a bachelor?”
stirring them to avenge Caesar’s death.
Ans
92. Select the option that shows the correct (a) “What is your name?”
relationship between statements (1) and (2):
The Plebeians begin interrogating Cinna
Statement 1 : Antony reads Caesar’s will and
aggressively, with the first question being about
reveals his generosity.
his name, showcasing their hostile and suspicious
Statement 2 : The Plebeians turn against the
demeanor.
conspirators.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. 96. How does Cinna respond to the Plebeians’
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. questions?
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (a) Nervously and hesitantly
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. (b) Calmly and briefly
Ans (c) Angrily and defensively
(d) With humor and wit
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Ans
Antony’s disclosure of Caesar’s will, which leaves
money and public land to the citizens, enrages (b) Calmly and briefly
the Plebeians, leading them to rebel against the Cinna answers the questions directly, wisely, and
conspirators. truthfully, as instructed by the Plebeians, trying
to pacify their hostility.

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

97. What does the Second Plebeian say about (c) “Are you married?”
marriage? (d) “Are you a conspirator?”
(a) It brings happiness.
Ans
(b) It is foolish.
(c) It is necessary. (a) “What is your name?”
(d) It is honorable. The Plebeians demand to know Cinna’s name
Ans after asking about his destination and marital
status, showcasing their increasing suspicion.
(b) It is foolish.
When Cinna says he is a bachelor, the Second 102. What happens when Cinna reveals his name?
Plebeian mockingly states that marrying is foolish, (a) He is praised for his poetry.
adding humor to the otherwise tense scene. (b) He is mistaken for a conspirator.
(c) He is welcomed warmly.
98. Where does Cinna say he is going? (d) He is ignored.
(a) To Brutus’s house Ans
(b) To Caesar’s funeral (b) He is mistaken for a conspirator.
(c) To Cassius’s house
When Cinna states his name, the Plebeians
(d) To the Capitol
confuse him with Cinna the conspirator and turn
Ans their hostility toward him.
(b) To Caesar’s funeral
103. What does Cinna repeatedly say to the Plebeians?
Cinna declares he is going to Caesar’s funeral, (a) “I am Cinna the poet!”
emphasizing his loyalty and lack of involvement (b) “I am not a conspirator!”
in the conspiracy. (c) “I am innocent!”
99. How do the Plebeians react to Cinna’s statement (d) “I love Caesar!”
about attending the funeral? Ans
(a) They accept his answer.
(a) “I am Cinna the poet!”
(b) They accuse him of lying.
(c) They call him a conspirator. Cinna tries to clarify his identity as a poet, not
(d) They let him leave peacefully. a conspirator, but his pleas are ignored by the
enraged Plebeians.
Ans
(a) They accept his answer. 104. Why do the Plebeians decide to attack Cinna?
(a) Because of his bad poetry
The Plebeians acknowledge his answer about (b) Because of his name
attending the funeral as a friend of Caesar, but (c) Because he insulted them
their hostility toward him doesn’t wane. (d) Because he supported Brutus
100. Where does Cinna say he lives? Ans
(a) Near the Forum (b) Because of his name
(b) By the Capitol
The Plebeians irrationally decide to attack
(c) Outside Rome
Cinna simply because he shares the name of a
(d) Near Brutus’s house
conspirator, reflecting their mob mentality and
Ans lack of reason.
(b) By the Capitol 105. What excuse does the Fourth Plebeian give for
Cinna reveals his residence is near the Capitol, attacking Cinna?
attempting to answer the Plebeians’ interrogation (a) His poetry is bad.
honestly and avoid conflict. (b) His name is offensive.
(c) He supports Brutus.
101. What is the last question the Plebeians ask (d) He insulted Caesar.
Cinna?
(a) “What is your name?” Ans
(b) “Where are you going?” (a) His poetry is bad.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 33

The Fourth Plebeian humorously suggests 110. What literary device is used in the Plebeians’
attacking Cinna for his “bad verses,” mocking his attack on Cinna?
identity as a poet and escalating the violence. (a) Irony
(b) Metaphor
106. What do the Plebeians plan to do after attacking (c) Hyperbole
Cinna? (d) Allusion
(a) Burn Brutus’s house Ans
(b) Burn Caesar’s body
(c) Attack Antony (a) Irony
(d) Leave Rome It is ironic that Cinna is attacked despite being
Ans innocent, emphasizing the absurdity of mob
behavior and the dangers of mistaken identity.
(a) Burn Brutus’s house
The Plebeians channel their rage toward the 111. What role does Cinna play in the larger narrative?
conspirators, planning to burn their houses and (a) He is a key conspirator.
incite further chaos in Rome. (b) He shows the consequences of Antony’s
speech.
107. What does this scene primarily highlight? (c) He defends Caesar’s legacy.
(a) The Plebeians’ loyalty to Caesar (d) He challenges Brutus.
(b) The power of poetry
(c) The irrationality of mob mentality Ans
(d) The wisdom of Cinna (b) He shows the consequences of Antony’s speech.
Ans Cinna’s plight highlights how Antony’s funeral
(c) The irrationality of mob mentality speech has incited chaos, turning the citizens into
an uncontrollable and violent mob.
The scene demonstrates how a mob, driven
by anger and confusion, acts irrationally and
violently, disregarding facts and logic. 112. How does Shakespeare use this scene to critique
mob mentality?
108. How does Cinna try to reason with the Plebeians? (a) By showing the mob’s violence
(a) By explaining his identity (b) By depicting their lack of reason
(b) By defending Brutus (c) By showing their blind rage
(c) By praising Caesar (d) All of the above
(d) By fleeing
Ans
Ans (d) All of the above
(a) By explaining his identity Shakespeare critiques mob mentality by portraying
Cinna repeatedly clarifies that he is a poet, not the Plebeians’ irrational, violent, and thoughtless
a conspirator, but his reasoning fails to quell the actions against Cinna, an innocent man.
mob’s fury.
113. What emotion primarily drives the Plebeians in
109. What does the mob symbolize in this scene? this scene?
(a) Order and justice (a) Love for Caesar
(b) Chaos and anger (b) Hatred for conspirators
(c) Caesar’s power (c) Fear of Antony
(d) Antony’s manipulation (d) Support for Brutus
Ans Ans
(b) Chaos and anger (b) Hatred for conspirators
The mob represents the chaos, irrationality, and The Plebeians’ anger toward the conspirators,
blind rage that follow Antony’s funeral speech fueled by Antony’s rhetoric, drives their violent
and Caesar’s assassination. and irrational actions in this scene.

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

114. What does Cinna’s fate symbolize? 118. “I dreamt tonight that I did feast with Caesar,
(a) The triumph of reason And things unluckily charge my fantasy.”
(b) The loss of justice These lines tell us that Cinna is _____.
(c) The rise of Antony (a) anxious
(d) The power of Caesar’s legacy (b) excited
(c) indifferent
Ans
(d) frustrated
(b) The loss of justice
Ans
Cinna’s unjust treatment symbolizes how reason
and fairness are lost when mob mentality takes (a) anxious
over. Cinna’s dream of feasting with Caesar creates
a sense of unease, reflecting his anxiety and
115. What is the Plebeians’ ultimate goal? foreboding about stepping outside.
(a) To restore order
(b) To avenge Caesar 119. “What is my name? Whither am I going? Where
(c) To support Antony do I dwell?”
(d) To overthrow Rome These lines suggest that Cinna is _____.
(a) humorous
Ans
(b) nervous
(b) To avenge Caesar (c) defensive
The Plebeians’ actions are fueled by a desire (d) confident
to avenge Caesar’s death, though their rage is Ans
misdirected and irrational.
(b) nervous
Cinna repeats the Plebeians’ questions in a frantic
manner, showcasing his nervousness as he faces
their growing hostility.
116. What event does this scene foreshadow?
(a) The civil war 120. “Directly, I am going to Caesar’s funeral.”
(b) Antony’s victory Cinna’s statement shows that he is _____.
(c) Octavius’s rise (a) respectful
(d) Brutus’s downfall (b) loyal
Ans (c) deceitful
(d) indifferent
(a) The civil war
Ans
The chaos in this scene foreshadows the larger
(b) loyal
conflicts and civil war that will result from Caesar’s
assassination and Antony’s manipulation. Cinna’s declaration of attending Caesar’s funeral
reveals his loyalty to Caesar despite the chaotic
117. What is the significance of this scene in the play? and dangerous environment.
(a) It shows the Plebeians’ love for Caesar.
(b) It critiques mob mentality and foreshadows 121. “Tear him for his bad verses, tear him for his bad
chaos. verses!”
(c) It introduces a new conspirator. These lines suggest the Plebeians are _____.
(d) It defends Antony’s actions. (a) rational
(b) humorous
Ans
(c) violent
(b) It critiques mob mentality and foreshadows (d) forgiving
chaos.
Ans
This scene is significant because it illustrates
(c) violent
the dangers of unchecked mob behavior and
the societal instability caused by Caesar’s The Plebeians irrationally decide to attack Cinna,
assassination. showcasing their mob mentality and readiness for
violence without evidence.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 35

122. “I am not Cinna the conspirator.” 126. When the Plebeians shout, “Tear him for his bad
Cinna’s statement shows that he is _____. verses!” they are _____.
(a) defensive (a) Playful
(b) calm (b) Violent
(c) argumentative (c) Rational
(d) careless (d) Respectful
Ans Ans
(a) defensive (b) Violent
Cinna repeatedly denies being the conspirator, The mob irrationally turns on Cinna, using his
trying to defend himself from the Plebeians’ poetry as an excuse to justify their aggression,
misplaced wrath. demonstrating the dangers of mob mentality.

127. When Cinna cries, “I am not Cinna the

123. When Cinna says, “I dreamt tonight that I did
feast with Caesar,” he feels _____. conspirator,” he is _____.
(a) Excited (a) Defensive
(b) Uneasy (b) Confident
(c) Happy (c) Arrogant
(d) Confident (d) Calm

Ans Ans

(b) Uneasy (a) Defensive

Cinna expresses a sense of foreboding due to his Cinna desperately tries to defend himself, but the
dream of feasting with Caesar, suggesting he feels mob refuses to listen, showing their irrationality
something unfortunate may happen. and his helplessness.
128. Choose the correct sequence of events from the
124. When the Second Plebeian says, “That’s as scene involving Cinna the poet.
much as to say they are fools that marry,” he is 1. Cinna reveals he is going to Caesar’s funeral
_____. as a friend.
(a) Serious 2. The Plebeians demand Cinna to answer their
(b) Sarcastic questions directly.
(c) Angry 3. Cinna says his name is Cinna and is mistaken
(d) Nervous for a conspirator.
Ans 4. The Plebeians decide to attack him for his
name and his bad verses.
(b) Sarcastic
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4
The Second Plebeian mockingly interprets Cinna’s (b) 3, 2, 1, 4
claim of being a bachelor, adding a humorous (c) 1, 2, 4, 3
element to an otherwise tense scene. (d) 4, 3, 1, 2
125. When Cinna declares, “Directly, I am going to Ans
Caesar’s funeral,” he shows his _____. (a) 2, 1, 3, 4
(a) Loyalty to Caesar
The sequence begins with the Plebeians
(b) Fear of the mob
interrogating Cinna, followed by his revelation
(c) Disrespect for the Plebeians
about Caesar’s funeral, his mistaken identity, and
(d) Support for the conspirators
their irrational decision to attack him.
Ans
129. Choose the correct order of questions asked by
(a) Loyalty to Caesar
the Plebeians to Cinna.
Cinna’s statement reflects his respect for Caesar, 1. Are you a married man or a bachelor?
as he intends to attend the funeral despite the 2. Where do you dwell?
dangers surrounding him. 3. What is your name?
4. Whither are you going?

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

(a) 3, 4, 1, 2 132. Which of the following correctly outlines the

(b) 4, 3, 2, 1 mob’s irrational behavior?
(c) 3, 2, 4, 1 1. They attack Cinna for his bad poetry.
(d) 3, 4, 2, 1 2. They mistake Cinna for a conspirator.
3. They ignore Cinna’s claims of innocence.
Ans
4. They plan to burn the houses of Brutus and
(d) 3, 4, 2, 1 other conspirators.
The Plebeians first ask Cinna his name, followed (a) 2, 3, 1, 4
by where he is going, where he lives, and his (b) 1, 2, 4, 3
marital status in a chaotic interrogation. (c) 4, 1, 2, 3
(d) 3, 4, 2, 1
130. Arrange the Plebeians’ reactions to Cinna’s Ans
answers in the correct sequence.
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4
1. They demand him to answer directly, briefly,
and wisely. The Plebeians first mistake Cinna’s identity,
2. They accept his reason for going to Caesar’s ignore his protests, attack him irrationally, and
funeral. extend their rage to planning violence against
3. They mistake him for a conspirator. conspirators’ homes.
4. They decide to tear him apart for his bad
poetry. 133. Select the option that shows the correct
(a) 1, 2, 4, 3 relationship between statements (1) and (2):
(b) 3, 4, 2, 1 Statement 1 : Cinna tells the Plebeians that he is
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 going to Caesar’s funeral.
(d) 4, 3, 1, 2 Statement 2 : The Plebeians demand to know
Ans whether he is a friend or an enemy.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
The Plebeians first demand answers, accept (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
his initial reasoning, then accuse him of being (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
a conspirator and ultimately attack him for his
name and poetry. Ans
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Cinna’s declaration of going to Caesar’s funeral
prompts the Plebeians to question his intentions,
showcasing their growing suspicion.
131. What events lead to the Plebeians attacking Cinna?
1. Cinna says he is a bachelor. 134. Select the option that shows the correct
2. Cinna reveals his name. relationship between statements (1) and (2):
3. The Plebeians mistake him for a conspirator. Statement 1 : Cinna states that his name is Cinna.
4. The Plebeians decide to burn conspirators’ Statement 2 : The Plebeians mistake him for a
houses. conspirator.
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) 2, 3, 4, 1 (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) 2, 1, 4, 3 (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2 (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.

Ans Ans
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Cinna’s answers to their questions, especially his The Plebeians irrationally associate Cinna’s
name, lead the Plebeians to mistakenly identify name with the conspirator Cinna, leading to their
him as a conspirator and escalate their rage. mistaken belief and subsequent violence.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 37

135. Select the option that shows the correct EXTRACT BASED QUESTION
relationship between statements (1) and (2):
Statement 1 : The Plebeians ask Cinna where he
lives. SCENE 1
Statement 2 : Cinna replies that he lives by the
Capitol. 1. Read the following extract and answer the
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. questions that follow:
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. Caesar: Are we all ready? What is now amiss,
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). That Caesar and his Senate must redress?
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. Metellus: Most high, most mighty, and most
Ans puissant Caesar,
Metellus Cimber throws before thy seat
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
A humble heart. [He kneels]
Cinna’s response is directly triggered by the (i) Where are the speakers?
Plebeians’ interrogation about his residence, What does ‘puissant’ mean?
showing the intensity of their scrutiny. Explain: “Metellus Cimber throws before thy
seat a humble heart.”
136. Select the option that shows the correct (ii) How does Caesar react to Metellus’s plea?
relationship between statements (1) and (2): What reason does Caesar give for his reaction?
Statement 1 : The Plebeians demand that Cinna (iii) What does Metellus Cimber request of
answer their questions directly. Caesar?
Statement 2 : Cinna answers briefly, wisely, and Why is Metellus’s action significant to the
truthfully. conspirators’ plan?
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. (iv) How does Caesar compare himself to the
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. Northern Star later in the scene?
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). What does this comparison reveal about
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. Caesar’s character?
Ans (v) Do you think Caesar’s refusal to pardon
Publius Cimber is justified?
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Explain your opinion with reference to
Cinna attempts to meet the Plebeians’ demands Caesar’s reasoning and the conspirators’ plan.
by answering directly, showing his efforts to pacify
Ans
their growing aggression.
(i) The speakers are in the Capitol, where Caesar
137. Select the option that shows the correct has gathered with the Senate.
relationship between statements (1) and (2): The word ‘puissant’ means powerful or
Statement 1 : The Plebeians attack Cinna, calling mighty, emphasizing Caesar’s authority and
him a conspirator. grandeur.
Statement 2 : Cinna cries out that he is a poet, Metellus kneels before Caesar, pretending to
not a conspirator. show humility and submission, as he pleads
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. for his brother’s return from banishment. This
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. act is part of the conspirators’ strategy to
(c) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. lower Caesar’s guard before the assassination.
(d) (1) is the cause for (2). (ii) Caesar dismisses Metellus’s plea with disdain,
refusing to overturn his decision.
Ans He argues that changing his decree would
(d) (1) is the cause for (2). undermine his authority and make him
Cinna’s desperate pleas to clarify his identity appear weak, comparing himself to someone
are a direct response to the Plebeians’ irrational easily swayed by flattery.
attack, showcasing his helplessness against their (iii) Metellus requests that Caesar revoke the
mob mentality. banishment of his brother, Publius Cimber.
This action is significant because it distracts
Caesar and creates an opportunity for the

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

conspirators to surround him and prepare for By saying, “What touches us ourself shall
the assassination. be last served,” Caesar prioritizes public
(iv) Caesar compares himself to the Northern Star, matters over personal concerns, dismissing
declaring that he is constant and unchanging, Artemidorus’s urgent warning.
unlike others who are fickle. (ii) Artemidorus tries to warn Caesar by
This comparison reveals Caesar’s arrogance presenting him with a letter that contains
and belief in his infallibility, as he views vital information about the conspiracy.
himself as steadfast and above persuasion. Caesar dismisses the plea, believing it
(v) Yes, Caesar’s refusal is justified from his inappropriate to prioritize his personal
perspective, as it aligns with his belief matters, showcasing his arrogance and
in firmness and authority. However, his misplaced confidence.
arrogance blinds him to the conspirators’ true (iii) This moment highlights Caesar’s arrogance
intentions. and overconfidence. He assumes he is
Alternatively, one could argue that Caesar’s untouchable and prioritizes public duties over
refusal is unjustified, as his rigidity prevents personal safety.
him from understanding the emotions and needs The consequence of his refusal is tragic, as
of those around him, ultimately leading to his ignoring Artemidorus’s warning leads directly
downfall. to his assassination by the conspirators.
(iv) Earlier in the play, the Soothsayer warns
Caesar to “Beware the Ides of March.”
At the beginning of this scene, Caesar mocks
2. Read the following extract and answer the the Soothsayer, saying, “The Ides of March
questions that follow: are come,” believing the danger has passed.
Artemidorus: O Caesar, read mine first; for mine’s (v) Caesar’s response shows arrogance rather
a suit than strength. His dismissal of Artemidorus
That touches Caesar nearer: read it, great Caesar. reflects his overconfidence and inability to
Caesar: What touches us ourself shall be last recognize imminent danger.
served. Alternatively, one might argue it shows strength,
(i) Who is Artemidorus, and what is the content as he prioritizes the welfare of Rome over his
of his “suit”? own safety, believing in his duty as a leader.
What does Caesar mean by “What touches us
ourself shall be last served”? 3. Read the following extract and answer the
(ii) How does Artemidorus attempt to warn questions that follow:
Caesar? Antony:
Why does Caesar dismiss Artemidorus’s plea? “A curse shall light upon the limbs of men;
(iii) How does this moment highlight Caesar’s Domestic fury and fierce civil strife
flaws? Shall cumber all the parts of Italy;
What are the consequences of Caesar’s refusal Blood and destruction shall be so in use
to read the letter? And dreadful objects so familiar
(iv) What warning does the Soothsayer give That mothers shall but smile when they behold
earlier in the play? Their infants quarter’d with the hands of war;
How does Caesar react to this warning at the All pity choked with custom of fell deeds:
beginning of this scene? And Caesar’s spirit, ranging for revenge,
(v) Do you think Caesar’s response to Artemidorus With Ate by his side come hot from hell.”
shows strength or arrogance? (i) Who is the speaker, and what is the context
Justify your answer with reference to the of this speech?
extract and Caesar’s character. What does the phrase “domestic fury and
fierce civil strife” mean?
Ans
(ii) Explain: “Blood and destruction shall be so
(i) Artemidorus is a teacher who is loyal to in use/And dreadful objects so familiar.”
Caesar. His “suit” is a letter warning Caesar What does this imagery suggest about
about the conspiracy and naming the Antony’s prophecy?
conspirators.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 39

(iii) Who is Ate, and why is she mentioned in contribute to the very chaos he predicts,
Antony’s speech? showing both his loyalty to Caesar and his
What does Antony mean by “Caesar’s spirit, willingness to use destruction as a means to
ranging for revenge”? an end.
(iv) How does this speech reflect Antony’s
emotions after Caesar’s assassination? 4. Read the following extract and answer the
What does it foreshadow about the events to questions that follow:
come in Rome? Antony :
(v) Do you think Antony’s prophecy is justified, Gentlemen all, - alas! What shall I say?
given the events in the play? My credit now stands on such slippery ground,
Support your opinion with reference to Antony’s That one of two bad ways you must conceit me,
character and the conspirators’ actions. Either a coward or a flatterer.
Ans (i) Who is Antony speaking to, and what is the
context of this speech?
(i) The speaker is Mark Antony, delivering a What does Antony mean by “My credit now
soliloquy over Caesar’s body shortly after his stands on such slippery ground”?
assassination. Explain: “Either a coward or a flatterer.”
The phrase “domestic fury and fierce civil (ii) How does Antony justify his actions to the
strife” refers to internal chaos and civil war conspirators?
that Antony predicts will engulf Italy as a Why does Antony describe his position as
result of Caesar’s murder. “slippery ground”?
(ii) “Blood and destruction shall be so in use/ What does this reveal about Antony’s state
And dreadful objects so familiar” means that of mind?
violence and horror will become commonplace (iii) How does this moment reflect Antony’s
in Rome, to the point where people become political cunning?
desensitized to the atrocities. What does this speech foreshadow about
This imagery underscores Antony’s belief that Antony’s future actions?
Caesar’s assassination will lead to widespread (iv) How do the conspirators respond to Antony’s
devastation and chaos. words?
(iii) Ate is the Greek goddess of mischief and How does this response reflect their confidence
destruction. Antony invokes her to symbolize or overconfidence in their plan?
the chaos and vengeance that Caesar’s spirit (v) Do you think Antony’s behavior in this
will unleash upon Rome. moment shows genuine submission or
“Caesar’s spirit, ranging for revenge” signifies calculated strategy?
Antony’s conviction that Caesar’s legacy and Support your opinion with examples from the
influence will haunt the conspirators and play.
drive Rome into turmoil.
(iv) This speech reflects Antony’s grief, anger, and Ans
desire for vengeance against the conspirators. (i) Antony is speaking to the conspirators shortly
His words are filled with sorrow for Caesar after Caesar’s assassination. He is trying to
and rage at the injustice of his murder. navigate the precarious situation to ensure
It foreshadows the civil unrest, war, and his safety.
destruction that will follow as Antony seeks “My credit now stands on such slippery
to avenge Caesar’s death and incite the people ground” means that Antony feels his
of Rome against the conspirators. reputation is at risk, as his actions might be
(v) Antony’s prophecy is justified in the context interpreted as either cowardice or excessive
of the play, as Caesar’s assassination does flattery.
lead to chaos, civil war, and the downfall of “Either a coward or a flatterer” reflects
the conspirators. Antony’s grief and anger Antony’s dilemma: if he opposes the
drive him to ensure that Caesar’s death is conspirators, he risks death, and if he appears
avenged. too submissive, he may be seen as insincere.
However, his manipulative actions, such as (ii) Antony justifies his actions by appealing
inciting the mob during his funeral speech, to the conspirators’ sense of honor and

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expressing his loyalty to Caesar without (iii) How does this moment reflect the tension and
directly accusing them. urgency among the conspirators?
He describes his position as “slippery ground” What earlier events in the play contribute to
because he must balance his grief for Caesar their fears of discovery?
with his need to appease the conspirators to (iv) How does Cassius’s willingness to kill himself
survive. reflect the theme of honor in the play?
This reveals Antony’s cautious yet strategic What does this reveal about his view of
mindset, as he carefully measures his words failure and shame?
to avoid provoking the conspirators. (v) Do you think Cassius’s fear of failure is
(iii) This moment reflects Antony’s political justified in this moment?
cunning as he conceals his true intentions and Support your answer with reference to the
feigns submission to the conspirators to gain conspirators’ situation and the stakes of their
their trust. plan.
The speech foreshadows Antony’s future
Ans
actions, including his manipulation of the
public during Caesar’s funeral to turn them (i) Brutus observes Popilius Lena approaching
against the conspirators. Caesar and warns Cassius to pay attention,
(iv) The conspirators respond to Antony’s words fearing their plan may have been exposed.
with reassurance, believing his loyalty is Cassius instructs Casca to act quickly, as they
genuine and underestimating his ability to fear that their conspiracy might be discovered
manipulate them. before they can execute their plan.
This response highlights their overconfidence “If this be known, Cassius or Caesar never
in their plan, as they fail to recognize Antony’s shall turn back, for I will slay myself” means
cunning and the potential threat he poses. that Cassius would rather die than face the
(v) Antony’s behavior shows calculated strategy dishonor of being exposed and captured.
rather than genuine submission. His careful (ii) Cassius is deeply concerned about their plan
choice of words and measured tone indicate being discovered because it would result in
that he is biding his time to avenge Caesar. their failure and possible execution.
This moment sets the stage for Antony’s This reveals Cassius’s impulsive and dramatic
manipulation during Caesar’s funeral, where nature, as he quickly resorts to thoughts of
he turns the public against the conspirators suicide to avoid the shame of exposure.
and seeks to restore Caesar’s legacy. Brutus remains composed and tries to
reassure Cassius, reflecting his calmer and
5. Read the following extract and answer the more rational approach compared to Cassius’s
questions that follow: emotional response.
Brutus: (iii) This moment reflects the tension and urgency
Look how he makes to Caesar. Mark him. among the conspirators as they prepare to
Cassius: assassinate Caesar under the looming threat
Casca, be sudden, for we fear prevention.— of discovery.
Brutus, what shall be done? If this be known, Earlier events, such as Popilius Lena wishing
Cassius or Caesar never shall turn back, them luck and Artemidorus attempting to
For I will slay myself. warn Caesar, have heightened their fears and
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Look how he added to the pressure.
makes to Caesar. Mark him”? (iv) Cassius’s willingness to kill himself
What instruction does Cassius give to Casca underscores the theme of honor, as he views
in this extract? death as preferable to the disgrace of failure.
Explain: “If this be known, Cassius or Caesar This reveals his strong sense of pride and his
never shall turn back, for I will slay myself.” belief that failure would irreparably tarnish
(ii) Why is Cassius concerned about their plan his reputation and integrity.
being discovered? (v) Cassius’s fear of failure is justified, given
What does this moment reveal about Cassius’s the high stakes of their conspiracy and the
character? significant risks involved in assassinating
How does Brutus react to Cassius’s concern? Caesar.

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However, his impulsive reaction highlights his (ii) Metellus’s role is to divert Caesar’s attention
lack of composure under pressure, contrasting with a personal request, creating an opportunity
with Brutus’s steadier leadership during for the conspirators to surround him.
critical moments. Brutus instructs the conspirators to press
closer to Caesar and support Metellus’s plea,
6. Read the following extract and answer the ensuring that Caesar remains focused on the
questions that follow: distraction.
Decius: Caesar’s question, “What is now amiss,”
Where is Metellus Cimber? Let him go reflects his confidence in his ability to address
And presently prefer his suit to Caesar. any problem brought before him, highlighting
Brutus: his sense of authority.
He is addressed. Press near and second him. (iii) This moment reflects the conspirators’ careful
Cinna: coordination, as each member is assigned a
Casca, you are the first that rears your hand. specific role in executing the plan.
Caesar: Earlier moments, such as Cassius convincing
Are we all ready? What is now amiss Brutus to join the conspiracy and their
That Caesar and his Senate must redress? nighttime meeting, show their detailed
(i) Who is Metellus Cimber, and what is his preparations for Caesar’s assassination.
“suit” to Caesar? (iv) Caesar’s demeanor reveals his perception of
What does Decius mean by “Let him go and himself as a leader capable of resolving any
presently prefer his suit to Caesar”? issue brought before him, underscoring his
Explain: “Casca, you are the first that rears confidence and sense of invincibility.
your hand.” This reflects his belief in his unassailable
(ii) How does Metellus’s role contribute to the authority, which blinds him to the danger
conspirators’ plan? posed by those closest to him.
What instruction does Brutus give in this extract? (v) The conspirators’ reliance on Metellus’s
How does Caesar’s question, “What is now distraction was necessary, as it allowed them
amiss,” reflect his confidence? to position themselves around Caesar without
(iii) How does this moment reflect the conspirators’ arousing suspicion.
coordination in their plan? However, their plan also highlights their
What earlier moments in the play show their dependence on deception and manipulation,
preparations for this moment? contrasting with Caesar’s open confidence
(iv) How does Caesar’s demeanor in this extract and trust in his role as a leader.
highlight his perception of his role as a leader?
7. Read the following extract and answer the
What does this reveal about his sense of
authority and invincibility? questions that follow:
(v) Do you think the conspirators’ reliance on Caesar:
Metellus’s distraction was necessary for their I could be well moved, if I were as you.
plan? If I could pray to move, prayers would move me.
Support your answer with reference to the But I am constant as the Northern Star,
situation in the play. Of whose true fixed and resting quality
There is no fellow in the firmament.
Ans (i) What does Caesar mean by “I could be well
(i) Metellus Cimber is one of the conspirators. moved, if I were as you”?
His “suit” is a petition to Caesar, requesting What does Caesar suggest by comparing
the revocation of his brother Publius Cimber’s himself to the Northern Star?
banishment. Explain: “There is no fellow in the firmament.”
Decius means that Metellus should approach (ii) How does Caesar’s statement reflect his sense
Caesar immediately with his petition, which of authority?
is part of their plan to distract him. What does this reveal about Caesar’s
“Casca, you are the first that rears your hand” personality?
means that Casca is assigned to deliver the How does this moment highlight Caesar’s
first blow during the assassination of Caesar. attitude toward the conspirators’ plea?

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(iii) How does this extract reflect the theme of the danger posed by the conspirators, leading
arrogance and hubris in the play? to his tragic end.
What earlier actions of Caesar support his
belief in his constancy? 8. Read the following extract and answer the
(iv) How does the metaphor of the Northern Star questions that follow:
create dramatic irony in this scene? Brutus:
What does this moment foreshadow about Grant that, and then is death a benefit.
Caesar’s fate? So are we Caesar’s friends, that have abridged
(v) Do you think Caesar’s belief in his constancy His time of fearing death. Stoop, Romans, stoop,
is a strength or a flaw? And let us bathe our hands in Caesar’s blood
Support your answer with reference to his Up to the elbows and besmear our swords.
actions and their consequences in the play. (i) What does Brutus mean by “Grant that, and
then is death a benefit”?
Ans What does Brutus mean by “abridged his
(i) By “I could be well moved, if I were as you,” time of fearing death”?
Caesar suggests that he might have been Explain: “Stoop, Romans, stoop, and let us
swayed if he were less resolute. bathe our hands in Caesar’s blood.”
By comparing himself to the Northern Star, (ii) How does Brutus justify Caesar’s assassination
Caesar claims he is unchanging and steadfast in this extract?
in his decisions, implying his superiority and What does this reveal about Brutus’s
reliability. perspective on death and honor?
“There is no fellow in the firmament” means How does Brutus suggest they symbolize
that Caesar believes no one equals him in their act of assassination?
greatness and constancy, highlighting his (iii) How does this moment reflect Brutus’s
sense of uniqueness. attempt to frame the assassination as a noble
(ii) Caesar’s statement reflects his belief in his act?
absolute authority and his refusal to yield to What earlier decisions by Brutus demonstrate
the conspirators’ requests. his justification for their actions?
This reveals Caesar’s arrogance and pride, (iv) How does this imagery of bathing in Caesar’s
as he sees himself as infallible and above blood contrast with Brutus’s character and
persuasion. ideals?
His attitude toward the conspirators’ plea is What does this moment foreshadow about
dismissive, as he views their request as an the conspirators’ fate?
attempt to weaken his image as a strong leader. (v) Do you think Brutus’s justification for the
(iii) This extract reflects the theme of arrogance assassination is convincing?
and hubris, as Caesar’s unwavering confidence Support your answer with reference to his
blinds him to the dangers surrounding him. character and the consequences of his actions.
Earlier actions, such as ignoring the Ans
Soothsayer’s warning and dismissing
Artemidorus’s letter, demonstrate Caesar’s (i) Brutus means that if death ends the fear of
overconfidence in his invulnerability. dying, then it is a benefit rather than a curse.
(iv) The metaphor of the Northern Star creates By “abridged his time of fearing death,”
dramatic irony, as Caesar’s belief in his Brutus suggests that by killing Caesar, they
constancy contrasts with the conspirators’ have shortened his suffering and freed him
imminent betrayal and his impending death. from the dread of mortality.
This moment foreshadows Caesar’s downfall, “Stoop, Romans, stoop, and let us bathe our
as his pride and refusal to adapt leave him hands in Caesar’s blood” means that Brutus
vulnerable to the conspirators’ plan. urges the conspirators to symbolically mark
(v) Caesar’s belief in his constancy can be seen as themselves with Caesar’s blood to show their
a strength, as it demonstrates his resolve and unity and frame their act as one of liberation.
unwavering commitment to his principles. (ii) Brutus justifies Caesar’s assassination by
However, it is also a flaw, as his arrogance presenting it as an act of mercy that ends
and inflexibility prevent him from recognizing Caesar’s fear of death and protects Rome’s
freedom.

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This reveals Brutus’s philosophical view of How does Antony describe the conspirators in
death as a natural and sometimes necessary this extract?
outcome for the greater good. (iii) How does Antony’s tone in this moment
Brutus suggests that the conspirators should reflect his emotions and strategy?
smear Caesar’s blood on their hands and What earlier actions of Antony demonstrate
swords as a symbolic gesture to show their his ability to adapt and manipulate?
role in freeing Rome from tyranny. (iv) How does this extract foreshadow Antony’s
(iii) This moment reflects Brutus’s effort to frame actions later in the play?
the assassination as a noble act motivated What does Antony’s reaction reveal about his
by a desire to protect Rome, rather than loyalty to Caesar?
personal ambition. (v) Do you think Antony’s willingness to confront
Earlier decisions, such as Brutus’s soliloquy the conspirators in this moment is brave or
in his orchard, demonstrate his internal calculated?
struggle and eventual justification for joining Support your answer with reference to his
the conspiracy based on what he perceives as character and motives.
Caesar’s threat to the Republic.
Ans
(iv) The imagery of bathing in Caesar’s blood
contrasts with Brutus’s ideals of honor and (i) By “if you bear me hard,” Antony refers to
morality, as the act appears violent and gory, whether the conspirators harbor ill will or
undermining his claim of nobility. resentment toward him.
This moment foreshadows the conspirators’ “Your purpled hands” refers to the
eventual downfall, as the public’s reaction to conspirators’ bloodstained hands, symbolizing
Caesar’s death and Antony’s manipulation their role in Caesar’s assassination.
will lead to their defeat and demise. “Live a thousand years, I shall not find myself
(v) Brutus’s justification for the assassination is so apt to die” means that Antony considers
understandable from his perspective, as he this moment, standing beside Caesar’s body
believes he acted for the good of Rome and and facing his killers, as the most fitting time
its citizens. for his own death.
However, his reasoning is flawed, as it is based (ii) Antony responds to Caesar’s assassination
on assumptions about Caesar’s ambition with a mix of grief, resignation, and subtle
rather than concrete evidence, leading to defiance, as he places himself at the mercy of
unintended chaos and civil war. the conspirators.
By “No place will please me so, no mean of
9. Read the following extract and answer the death,” Antony suggests that dying beside
questions that follow: Caesar, at the hands of Rome’s most powerful
Antony: men, would be an honorable end.
I do beseech you, if you bear me hard, Antony describes the conspirators as “the
Now, whilst your purpled hands do reek and smoke, choice and master spirits of this age,” both
Fulfill your pleasure. Live a thousand years, acknowledging their power and subtly
I shall not find myself so apt to die; highlighting the gravity of their betrayal.
No place will please me so, no mean of death, (iii) Antony’s tone reflects controlled grief and
As here by Caesar, and by you cut off, strategic restraint, as he hides his true intentions
The choice and master spirits of this age. and appears submissive to the conspirators.
(i) What does Antony mean by “if you bear me Earlier actions, such as his agreement
hard”? with Brutus to speak at Caesar’s funeral,
What does Antony refer to by “your purpled demonstrate Antony’s ability to adapt to
hands”? situations and manipulate others to achieve
Explain: “Live a thousand years, I shall not his goals.
find myself so apt to die.” (iv) This extract foreshadows Antony’s eventual
(ii) How does Antony respond to Caesar’s manipulation of the Roman crowd during
assassination in this extract? Caesar’s funeral, where he incites them
What does Antony mean by “No place will against the conspirators.
please me so, no mean of death”? Antony’s reaction reveals his unwavering

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loyalty to Caesar, as he mourns his friend and “Friends am I with you all and love you all”
seeks justice for his assassination. reflects Antony’s outward show of allegiance
(v) Antony’s willingness to confront the to the conspirators, masking his true feelings
conspirators can be seen as both brave and to avoid suspicion.
calculated. His bravery is evident in his (ii) Antony justifies his alliance by claiming that
readiness to face death alongside Caesar, he hopes to understand the conspirators’
showing his loyalty. reasoning for killing Caesar.
However, his calculated restraint and “You shall give me reasons why and wherein
measured words suggest that Antony is Caesar was dangerous” suggests that
already planning his next steps to avenge Antony expects the conspirators to provide
Caesar and regain control of Rome. justifications for their actions.
This reflects Antony’s strategy of appearing
10. Read the following extract and answer the cooperative while subtly questioning their
questions that follow: motives, laying the groundwork for future
Antony: actions against them.
Therefore I took your hands, but was indeed (iii) Antony conceals his grief and anger by
Swayed from the point by looking down on Caesar. maintaining a respectful tone and feigning
Friends am I with you all and love you all, loyalty to the conspirators, ensuring they do
Upon this hope, that you shall give me reasons not perceive him as a threat.
Why and wherein Caesar was dangerous. Earlier moments, such as Antony’s agreement
(i) What does Antony mean by “I took your with Brutus to speak at Caesar’s funeral,
hands”? demonstrate his ability to adapt and
What does Antony imply by “Swayed from manipulate situations to his advantage.
the point by looking down on Caesar”? (iv) This moment highlights Antony’s intelligence
Explain: “Friends am I with you all and love and political pragmatism, as he uses
you all.” diplomacy to navigate a dangerous situation
(ii) How does Antony justify his alliance with the and secure his position.
conspirators? It suggests that Antony’s long-term goal
What does Antony mean by “you shall give is to avenge Caesar and undermine the
me reasons why and wherein Caesar was conspirators, which he later accomplishes
dangerous”? through his speech at Caesar’s funeral.
How does this reflect Antony’s strategy in (v) Antony’s words are purely strategic, as he
this moment? aims to gain the conspirators’ trust while
(iii) How does Antony conceal his true feelings secretly planning to turn the public against
about Caesar’s assassination in this extract? them.
What earlier moments in the play demonstrate His later actions, such as his funeral speech
Antony’s ability to manipulate and adapt? and alliance with Octavius, reveal his true
(iv) How does this moment highlight Antony’s feelings and his determination to restore
intelligence and political pragmatism? Caesar’s legacy.
What does this suggest about Antony’s long-
term goals? 11. Read the following extract and answer the
(v) Do you think Antony’s words to the questions that follow:
conspirators are genuine or purely strategic? Brutus:
Support your answer with reference to his Mark Antony, here, take you Caesar’s body.
character and actions in the play. You shall not in your funeral speech blame us
Ans But speak all good you can devise of Caesar
And say you do ‘t by our permission,
(i) “I took your hands” means that Antony shook
Else shall you not have any hand at all
hands with the conspirators, symbolizing his
About his funeral. And you shall speak
outward acceptance of their actions.
In the same pulpit whereto I am going,
By “Swayed from the point by looking
After my speech is ended.
down on Caesar,” Antony implies that he
(i) What instructions does Brutus give Antony
momentarily lost focus and was overcome
regarding Caesar’s funeral speech?
with grief when he saw Caesar’s body.

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What does Brutus mean by “speak all good (iv) Brutus’s belief in logic and honor influences
you can devise of Caesar”? his decision to permit Antony’s speech, as he
Explain: “And say you do ‘t by our assumes Antony will adhere to the restrictions
permission.” and act with integrity.
(ii) Why does Brutus allow Antony to speak at This reveals Brutus’s misjudgment of
Caesar’s funeral? Antony’s character, as Antony uses the
What restrictions does Brutus impose on speech to manipulate public sentiment and
Antony’s speech? seek vengeance for Caesar.
How does this reflect Brutus’s confidence in (v) Brutus’s decision to let Antony speak
his actions? at the funeral was a critical mistake, as
(iii) How does this moment foreshadow the Antony’s speech turns the crowd against the
consequences of Antony’s speech? conspirators and leads to their downfall.
What earlier decisions by Brutus contribute While Brutus’s intentions were honorable, his
to his eventual miscalculation? failure to anticipate Antony’s cunning and
(iv) How does Brutus’s belief in logic and honor emotional appeal highlights his naivety in
influence his decision to permit Antony’s political matters.
speech? 12. Read the following extract and answer the
What does this reveal about his understanding questions that follow:
of Antony’s character? Antony:
(v) Do you think Brutus’s decision to let Antony O pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth,
speak at the funeral was a mistake? That I am meek and gentle with these butchers.
Support your answer with reference to Thou art the ruins of the noblest man
Antony’s actions and the play’s events. That ever lived in the tide of times.
Ans Woe to the hand that shed this costly blood!
(i) Brutus instructs Antony to speak only (i) Who is Antony addressing in this extract,
positively about Caesar during his funeral and what does he mean by “thou bleeding
speech and forbids him from blaming the piece of earth”?
conspirators. What does Antony mean by “I am meek and
By “speak all good you can devise of Caesar,” gentle with these butchers”?
Brutus means that Antony should focus solely Explain: “Thou art the ruins of the noblest
on Caesar’s virtues and achievements. man that ever lived in the tide of times.”
“And say you do ‘t by our permission” means (ii) How does Antony express his grief and anger
that Antony must acknowledge that he is in this extract?
speaking with the conspirators’ approval, What does Antony mean by “Woe to the
emphasizing their authority. hand that shed this costly blood”?
(ii) Brutus allows Antony to speak at Caesar’s How does this reveal Antony’s loyalty to
funeral as a gesture of goodwill, believing Caesar?
it will demonstrate their fairness and (iii) How does this moment reflect Antony’s true
justification for the assassination. feelings about Caesar’s assassination?
He restricts Antony from blaming the What earlier actions by Antony show his
conspirators and ensures that Antony’s ability to conceal his emotions?
speech follows his own address to the crowd. (iv) How does this extract foreshadow Antony’s
This reflects Brutus’s confidence in his actions later in the play?
actions, as he believes the Roman people will What does this reveal about Antony’s plans
accept his explanation for Caesar’s death. for revenge?
(iii) This moment foreshadows the consequences (v) Do you think Antony’s grief in this moment is
of Antony’s speech, as Antony uses the sincere, or is it part of his strategy?
opportunity to incite the crowd against the Support your answer with reference to his
conspirators. character and actions in the play.
Brutus’s earlier decision to trust Antony and Ans
underestimate his rhetorical skills contributes
to his miscalculation, leading to chaos and (i) Antony is addressing Caesar’s corpse,
rebellion. referring to him as “thou bleeding piece of

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earth” to symbolize Caesar’s lifeless body as Into the marketplace. There shall I try,
a part of Rome that has been wounded. In my oration, how the people take
By “I am meek and gentle with these The cruel issue of these bloody men,
butchers,” Antony expresses his frustration According to the which thou shalt discourse
at having to hide his true feelings and appear To young Octavius of the state of things.
submissive to the conspirators. (i) What does Antony mean by “a mourning
“Thou art the ruins of the noblest man that Rome, a dangerous Rome”?
ever lived in the tide of times” means that Why does Antony say, “No Rome of safety for
Antony believes Caesar was the greatest man Octavius yet”?
of his era, highlighting his deep admiration Explain: “There shall I try, in my oration,
for him. how the people take the cruel issue of these
(ii) Antony expresses his grief through sorrowful bloody men.”
and reverent language, mourning Caesar’s (ii) What does Antony plan to achieve by bringing
death and the betrayal by the conspirators. Caesar’s body into the marketplace?
“Woe to the hand that shed this costly blood” How does Antony intend to gauge the crowd’s
conveys Antony’s anger and desire for justice, reaction to Caesar’s death?
as he curses those responsible for Caesar’s What does Antony instruct the messenger to
assassination. do regarding Octavius?
This reveals Antony’s unwavering loyalty to (iii) How does this extract reflect Antony’s
Caesar, as he sees his death as a profound loss strategic thinking?
for Rome and himself. What earlier moments in the play demonstrate
(iii) This moment reflects Antony’s true feelings Antony’s ability to plan and adapt?
of grief and anger, as he mourns Caesar’s (iv) How does this moment foreshadow Antony’s
death and despises the conspirators for their funeral speech and its consequences?
actions. What does this reveal about Antony’s
Earlier, Antony concealed his emotions by understanding of the Roman people?
feigning loyalty to the conspirators, ensuring (v) Do you think Antony’s approach to using
his safety while planning his revenge. Caesar’s funeral as a political tool is justified?
(iv) This extract foreshadows Antony’s actions Support your answer with reference to his
later in the play, such as his funeral speech, loyalty to Caesar and his motivations.
where he incites the Roman crowd against the
Ans
conspirators and seeks revenge for Caesar’s
death. (i) By “a mourning Rome, a dangerous Rome,”
It reveals Antony’s determination to honor Antony refers to the grief-stricken yet
Caesar’s legacy and punish those who betrayed volatile state of the city following Caesar’s
him, demonstrating his cunning and resolve. assassination.
(v) Antony’s grief in this moment is sincere, as he “No Rome of safety for Octavius yet”
deeply mourns Caesar’s death and expresses means that Rome is currently too unstable
anger at the betrayal. His words reflect and dangerous for Octavius to enter, as the
genuine admiration for Caesar and sorrow conspirators still hold power.
over his loss. “There shall I try, in my oration, how the
However, Antony’s ability to channel his people take the cruel issue of these bloody
emotions into a calculated strategy shows men” means that Antony plans to use his
his political acumen, as he uses his grief to speech at Caesar’s funeral to assess the
fuel his plan for revenge and reclaim power crowd’s reaction to the conspirators and
in Rome. determine his next course of action.
(ii) Antony plans to bring Caesar’s body into the
13. Read the following extract and answer the
marketplace to evoke the crowd’s emotions
questions that follow:
and turn them against the conspirators.
Antony:
He intends to gauge the crowd’s reaction
Here is a mourning Rome, a dangerous Rome,
during his funeral speech to understand
No Rome of safety for Octavius yet.
whether they will support his quest for
Hie hence and tell him so.—Yet stay awhile;
vengeance or remain loyal to the conspirators.
Thou shalt not back till I have borne this corpse

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 47

Antony instructs the messenger to wait until (iii) How does Antony contrast Caesar’s actions
after his speech before reporting the situation with Brutus’s claims?
to Octavius, ensuring Octavius has accurate What earlier actions of Caesar support
information about Rome’s state. Antony’s argument?
(iii) This extract highlights Antony’s strategic (iv) How does this moment reflect Antony’s
thinking as he carefully plans to use the funeral ability to sway the Roman crowd?
as a platform to manipulate public opinion What does this foreshadow about the public’s
and challenge the conspirators’ narrative. reaction to the conspirators?
Earlier, Antony demonstrated his adaptability (v) Do you think Antony’s criticism of Brutus is
when he feigned loyalty to the conspirators, fair?
ensuring his safety while preparing for his Support your answer with examples from the
next move. play.
(iv) This moment foreshadows Antony’s funeral
Ans
speech, where he masterfully turns the crowd
against the conspirators by appealing to (i) Antony provides examples such as Caesar
their emotions and using Caesar’s will as a bringing captives to Rome and using their
rhetorical tool. ransoms to fill the general treasury.
It reveals Antony’s deep understanding of By “Ambition should be made of sterner
the Roman people’s emotions and his ability stuff,” Antony suggests that Caesar’s
to channel their grief into action against the compassion for the poor, seen when he wept
conspirators. for them, is inconsistent with the traits of an
(v) Antony’s approach to using Caesar’s funeral ambitious man.
as a political tool is justified, as his loyalty to Antony repeats, “And Brutus is an honourable
Caesar drives him to seek justice and restore man,” to sarcastically undermine Brutus’s
Caesar’s legacy. credibility while outwardly appearing
However, his actions also contribute to chaos respectful.
and civil war, suggesting that his methods, (ii) Antony uses rhetorical questions like “Did
while effective, carry significant consequences this in Caesar seem ambitious?” to make the
for Rome’s stability. crowd question Brutus’s claim of Caesar’s
ambition.
His tone is calculated and ironic, as he subtly
SCENE 2 plants doubt in the minds of the Roman crowd.
Antony’s speech reflects his manipulative
14. Read the following extract and answer the
skills, as he carefully balances criticism of
questions that follow:
Brutus with praise, leading the crowd to form
Antony:
their own conclusions.
He hath brought many captives home to Rome
(iii) Antony contrasts Caesar’s generosity and
Whose ransoms did the general coffers fill:
compassion with Brutus’s claim that Caesar
Did this in Caesar seem ambitious?
was ambitious.
When that the poor have cried, Caesar hath wept;
Caesar’s actions, such as refusing the crown
Ambition should be made of sterner stuff:
and his care for the poor, support Antony’s
Yet Brutus says he was ambitious;
argument that Caesar was not driven by
And Brutus is an honourable man.
selfish ambition.
(i) What examples does Antony provide to
(iv) This moment reflects Antony’s mastery in
question Caesar’s ambition?
swaying the Roman crowd by appealing to
What does Antony mean by “Ambition
their emotions and logic.
should be made of sterner stuff”?
It foreshadows the public’s eventual revolt
Why does Antony repeat, “And Brutus is an
against the conspirators, as Antony turns
honourable man”?
them against Brutus and the other assassins.
(ii) How does Antony use rhetorical questions in
(v) Antony’s criticism of Brutus is justified, as
this speech?
he provides concrete examples that challenge
What is Antony’s tone in this extract?
Brutus’s claim of Caesar’s ambition. Antony’s
How does Antony’s speech reflect his
ability to expose inconsistencies in Brutus’s
manipulative skills?

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

reasoning highlights the conspirators’ (ii) Antony compares himself to Brutus by

questionable motives. imagining a reversal of roles, where he, as
However, Antony’s speech also shows his Brutus, would passionately incite the crowd
manipulative tendencies, as he uses rhetorical to rebellion.
devices to incite the crowd while maintaining “Ruffle up your spirits” means to stir the
an appearance of respect. emotions and anger of the crowd, encouraging
them to act against the conspirators.
15. Read the following extract and answer the Antony hopes to ignite the crowd’s rage and
questions that follow: push them toward mutiny and vengeance for
Antony: Caesar’s death.
Show you sweet Caesar’s wounds, poor poor (iii) This moment showcases Antony’s skillful
dumb mouths, manipulation of the crowd as he uses rhetorical
And bid them speak for me. But were I Brutus, devices, emotional appeals, and vivid imagery
And Brutus Antony, there were an Antony to sway their opinion.
Would ruffle up your spirits, and put a tongue Earlier events, such as Antony’s agreement
In every wound of Caesar that should move with Brutus to speak at Caesar’s funeral and
The stones of Rome to rise and mutiny. his subtle use of irony in his speech, build up
(i) What does Antony mean by “sweet Caesar’s to this climax of persuasion.
wounds, poor poor dumb mouths”? (iv) Antony uses the imagery of Caesar’s wounds
Explain: “And bid them speak for me.” as silent witnesses to the betrayal, evoking
What is Antony’s purpose in this part of his pity and anger in the crowd.
speech? This speech foreshadows the crowd’s
(ii) How does Antony compare himself to Brutus? transformation from passive listeners to an
What does Antony mean by “ruffle up your enraged mob, ready to seek vengeance against
spirits”? the conspirators.
What effect does Antony hope to achieve (v) Antony’s manipulation of the crowd can be
with this statement? seen as justified, as he seeks justice for Caesar
(iii) How does this moment reflect Antony’s and exposes the conspirators’ motives. His
ability to manipulate the crowd? actions align with his loyalty to Caesar and
What earlier events in the play have prepared his desire to restore order in Rome.
the audience for Antony’s speech? However, his rhetoric also unleashes chaos
(iv) How does Antony use the imagery of Caesar’s and violence, showing that his methods, while
wounds to evoke the crowd’s emotions? effective, contribute to the disorder he later
What does this speech foreshadow about the seeks to control.
crowd’s reaction?
16. Read the following extract and answer the
(v) Do you think Antony’s manipulation of the
crowd is justified? questions that follow:
Support your opinion with reference to Antony:
Antony’s character and the play’s events. I am no orator, as Brutus is;
But, as you know me all, a plain blunt man,
Ans That love my friend; and that they know full well
(i) Antony refers to Caesar’s wounds as “dumb That gave me public leave to speak of him:
mouths,” implying that they cannot literally For I have neither wit, nor words, nor worth,
speak but symbolize the injustice of Caesar’s Action, nor utterance, nor the power of speech,
murder. To stir men’s blood; I only speak right on.
By saying, “And bid them speak for me,” (i) What does Antony mean by “I am no orator,
Antony personifies the wounds, suggesting as Brutus is”?
they can convey the tragedy and stir emotions Explain: “But, as you know me all, a plain
in the crowd. blunt man.”
Antony’s purpose is to incite the crowd What is Antony’s purpose in downplaying his
against the conspirators by appealing to their oratory skills?
emotions and using Caesar’s wounds as a (ii) How does Antony contrast himself with
symbol of betrayal. Brutus in this extract?

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What does Antony mean by “I only speak successfully undermines Brutus’s justification
right on”? for Caesar’s assassination.
How does this statement reflect Antony’s (v) Antony’s claim of being a “plain blunt man”
rhetorical strategy? is insincere, as he is a master of rhetoric and
(iii) How does Antony use this moment to uses this persona to manipulate the crowd
manipulate the crowd? effectively.
What earlier actions in his speech contribute His actions throughout the speech, including
to his success in swaying the public? his use of irony and emotional appeals,
(iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of demonstrate his skill as an orator and his
persuasion and rhetoric in the play? ability to turn public sentiment against the
What does this moment foreshadow about conspirators.
the crowd’s response to Antony’s speech?
(v) Do you think Antony’s claim of being a “plain 17. Read the following extract and answer the
blunt man” is sincere? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to Brutus:
Antony’s character and actions in the play. If then that friend demand
Ans why Brutus rose against Caesar, this is my answer:
— Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved
(i) Antony’s statement “I am no orator, as Rome more. Had you rather Caesar were living
Brutus is” implies that he lacks the rhetorical and die
sophistication of Brutus, presenting himself all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, to live all
as humble. free men?
The line “But, as you know me all, a plain (i) Who is Brutus addressing in this speech, and
blunt man” suggests that Antony appeals to what is the context?
the crowd by portraying himself as honest What does Brutus mean by “Not that I loved
and straightforward. Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more”?
Antony downplays his oratory skills to appear Explain: “Had you rather Caesar were living
relatable and to subtly highlight Brutus’s and die all slaves, than that Caesar were
manipulation, contrasting it with his own dead, to live all free men?”
supposed sincerity. (ii) How does Brutus justify his role in Caesar’s
(ii) Antony contrasts himself with Brutus by assassination?
claiming simplicity and honesty, implying What does this reveal about his values and
that Brutus’s speech was calculated and priorities?
insincere. How does this moment reflect Brutus’s sense
“I only speak right on” means that Antony of duty to Rome?
speaks plainly and truthfully, without (iii) How does Brutus’s argument appeal to the
embellishment or pretense. Plebeians’ sense of freedom and justice?
This statement reflects Antony’s rhetorical What rhetorical strategy does Brutus use to
strategy, as he uses humility to gain the gain their approval?
trust of the crowd while subtly inciting them (iv) How does this extract highlight the
against the conspirators. conflict between personal loyalty and civic
(iii) Antony manipulates the crowd by presenting responsibility?
himself as relatable and honest, making the What earlier moments in the play reflect
audience more receptive to his message. Brutus’s internal struggle between his love for
Earlier actions, such as showing Caesar’s wounds Caesar and his duty to Rome?
and reading the will, have already stirred the (v) Do you think Brutus’s justification for
crowd’s emotions, paving the way for Antony to Caesar’s assassination is convincing?
solidify their anger toward the conspirators. Support your answer with reference to his
(iv) This extract highlights the theme of persuasion character and motivations.
and rhetoric by showcasing Antony’s ability
to use humility and emotional appeals to Ans
sway the crowd. (i) Brutus is addressing the Plebeians, explaining
It foreshadows the crowd’s eventual revolt his reasons for participating in Caesar’s
against the conspirators, as Antony’s speech assassination.

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“Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Those that will hear me speak, let ‘em stay here;
Rome more” means that Brutus acted out of Those that will follow Cassius, go with him;
his loyalty to the Republic, believing Caesar’s And public reasons shall be rendered
ambition threatened its freedom. Of Caesar’s death.
By “Had you rather Caesar were living and (i) What are the Plebeians demanding in this
die all slaves, than that Caesar were dead, extract?
to live all free men?” Brutus appeals to What does Brutus mean by “And public
the crowd, presenting Caesar’s death as a reasons shall be rendered of Caesar’s death”?
necessary sacrifice for their liberty. Why does Brutus ask Cassius to address a
(ii) Brutus justifies his actions by framing them separate group of Plebeians?
as a choice between Rome’s freedom and (ii) How does Brutus attempt to calm the crowd
Caesar’s ambition. He prioritizes the welfare in this moment?
of the Republic over personal loyalty to What does this reveal about his leadership
Caesar. style?
This reveals Brutus’s strong sense of duty How does Brutus plan to justify Caesar’s
and his belief in placing the common good assassination?
above personal relationships, even when it (iii) How does this moment highlight Brutus and
causes him emotional pain. Cassius’s coordination?
(iii) Brutus appeals to the Plebeians’ sense of What earlier events in the play show their
freedom and justice by emphasizing that preparation for this moment?
Caesar’s death was necessary to preserve (iv) How does this extract reflect Brutus’s
their liberty. confidence in his reasoning for Caesar’s
He uses rhetorical questions and contrasts assassination?
slavery with freedom to align his actions with What does this reveal about his belief in logic
the people’s values, gaining their approval and honor?
and trust. (v) Do you think Brutus’s approach to addressing
(iv) This extract highlights the conflict between the Plebeians is effective?
Brutus’s personal loyalty to Caesar and his Support your answer with reference to his
civic responsibility to Rome. He sacrifices intentions and their potential consequences.
his friendship with Caesar to protect the
Ans
Republic’s ideals.
Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s soliloquy (i) The Plebeians are demanding an explanation
in his orchard, reflect his internal struggle as for Caesar’s assassination, asking to be
he debates whether to join the conspiracy, satisfied with a reason for his death.
ultimately prioritizing his duty over his By “And public reasons shall be rendered of
affection for Caesar. Caesar’s death,” Brutus promises to provide
(v) Brutus’s justification for Caesar’s assassination a logical and honorable justification for the
is convincing from his perspective, as his conspirators’ actions.
motives are rooted in his commitment to the Brutus asks Cassius to address a separate
Republic’s ideals and fear of tyranny. group of Plebeians to ensure that both leaders
However, some might argue that his reasoning can effectively manage and calm the divided
is flawed, as it is based on assumptions about crowd.
Caesar’s ambition rather than concrete evidence, (ii) Brutus attempts to calm the crowd by
making his actions morally ambiguous. addressing them as “friends” and promising to
explain the reasons for Caesar’s assassination.
18. Read the following extract and answer the This reveals his rational and composed
questions that follow: leadership style, as he seeks to reason with the
First Plebeians: crowd rather than intimidate or manipulate
We will be satisfied! Let us be satisfied! them.
Brutus: Brutus plans to justify Caesar’s assassination
Then follow me and give me audience, friends.— by framing it as an act of protecting Rome
Cassius, go you into the other street from tyranny, emphasizing the conspirators’
And part the numbers.— noble intentions.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 51

(iii) This moment highlights the coordination What does this reveal about his relationship
between Brutus and Cassius as they divide with the Roman people?
responsibilities to address the crowd and (v) Do you think Brutus’s speech is effective in
manage their reaction. winning over the Plebeians?
Earlier events, such as their planning sessions Support your answer with reference to his
and recruitment of allies, demonstrate their intentions and the crowd’s potential reaction.
preparation for handling public backlash after
Ans
Caesar’s death.
(iv) This extract reflects Brutus’s confidence in (i) “Be patient till the last” means that Brutus
his ability to persuade the Plebeians using is asking the crowd to remain calm and listen
logic and honor, as he believes they will to his explanation before passing judgment.
understand and accept his reasoning. By “Believe me for mine honor,” Brutus
It reveals his belief in the power of rationality appeals to his reputation, asking the Romans
and his commitment to acting in what he to trust his words based on his integrity and
perceives as Rome’s best interest. past actions.
(v) Brutus’s approach is initially effective, as his “Censure me in your wisdom, and awake your
calm demeanor and promise of explanation senses that you may the better judge” means
quell the crowd’s immediate unrest. that Brutus encourages the crowd to critically
However, his reliance on logic and honor evaluate his reasoning with their intellect and
underestimates the emotional nature of the fairness.
Plebeians, leaving them vulnerable to Antony’s (ii) Brutus appeals to the crowd’s sense of logic
manipulation during his funeral speech. and honor by emphasizing his moral integrity
and asking them to judge him rationally.
19. Read the following extract and answer the He uses rhetorical strategies such as repetition
questions that follow: of “honor” and a direct appeal to their wisdom
Brutus: and fairness to gain their trust.
Be patient till the last. This reflects Brutus’s belief in his own moral
Romans, countrymen, and lovers, hear me for my uprightness and his confidence that his
cause, and be silent that you may hear. actions will be seen as just and noble.
Believe me for mine honor, and have respect to (iii) This moment reflects Brutus’s confidence that
mine honor that you may believe. his reasoning for Caesar’s assassination—
Censure me in your wisdom, and awake your protecting Rome from tyranny—will resonate
senses that you may the better judge. with the crowd.
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Be patient till Earlier moments, such as his soliloquy in
the last”? the orchard, show his internal struggle and
What does Brutus ask the Romans to do in ultimate decision to join the conspiracy based
“Believe me for mine honor”? on his fear of Caesar’s potential ambition.
Explain: “Censure me in your wisdom, and (iv) Brutus’s opening address reflects his calm,
awake your senses that you may the better rational, and principled leadership style, as
judge.” he prioritizes logic and reason over emotional
(ii) How does Brutus appeal to the crowd’s sense appeals.
of logic and honor? This reveals his respect for the Roman people
What rhetorical strategy does Brutus use to and his belief in their capacity to understand and
gain the Plebeians’ trust? support his actions if given a clear explanation.
How does this reflect his belief in his own (v) Brutus’s speech is effective in initially winning
moral integrity? over the Plebeians, as his calm demeanor and
(iii) How does this moment reflect Brutus’s appeal to logic and honor align with their
confidence in his reasoning for Caesar’s respect for him.
assassination? However, his reliance on reason alone
What earlier moments in the play demonstrate underestimates the emotional nature of the
Brutus’s justification for his actions? crowd, leaving them vulnerable to Antony’s
(iv) How does Brutus’s opening address reflect his subsequent manipulation during Caesar’s
leadership style? funeral.

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20. Read the following extract and answer the that no one will challenge his reasoning,
questions that follow: reinforcing his belief in the legitimacy of his
Brutus: actions.
If any, speak, for him have I offended. This reflects Brutus’s confidence in his moral
Who is here so rude that would not be a Roman? integrity and his ability to persuade the crowd
If any, speak, for him have I offended. with logic and honor.
Who is here so vile that will not love his country? (iii) Brutus justifies Caesar’s assassination by
If any, speak, for him have I offended. framing it as an act of loyalty to Rome,
I pause for a reply. ensuring the Republic’s freedom from
(i) What is Brutus trying to convey by repeatedly potential tyranny.
asking “For him have I offended”? Earlier actions, such as his soliloquy in the
What does Brutus mean by “Who is here so orchard, demonstrate Brutus’s internal
rude that would not be a Roman”? conflict and ultimate decision to prioritize
Explain: “Who is here so vile that will not Rome’s welfare over his personal relationship
love his country?” with Caesar.
(ii) How does Brutus use rhetorical questions to (iv) This extract reflects Brutus’s perception
appeal to the Plebeians? of honor and patriotism as central to his
What is the purpose of “I pause for a reply”? identity and his justification for Caesar’s
How does this reflect Brutus’s confidence in assassination.
his reasoning? It reveals his belief in the rationality of the
(iii) How does Brutus justify Caesar’s assassination Plebeians and his expectation that they will
in this moment? value his actions as noble and selfless.
What earlier actions demonstrate Brutus’s (v) Brutus’s appeal is initially effective, as his
belief in the greater good? calm and logical tone resonates with the
(iv) How does this extract reflect Brutus’s Plebeians, earning their agreement and trust.
perception of honor and patriotism? However, his reliance on logic and honor fails
What does this reveal about his leadership to address the crowd’s emotional connection
and his understanding of the Plebeians? to Caesar, leaving them susceptible to
(v) Do you think Brutus’s appeal to the Plebeians Antony’s later manipulation.
is effective in this moment?
Support your answer with reference to his 21. Read the following extract and answer the
tone and the crowd’s reaction. questions that follow:
Ans Antony:
Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.
(i) By repeatedly asking “For him have I I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.
offended,” Brutus is challenging anyone in the The evil that men do lives after them;
crowd to claim that his actions were unjust or The good is oft interred with their bones.
harmful to Rome. So let it be with Caesar. The noble Brutus
“Who is here so rude that would not be a Hath told you Caesar was ambitious.
Roman?” questions the loyalty of anyone who (i) What is Antony’s purpose in saying, “Friends,
opposes Brutus’s reasoning, suggesting that Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears”?
true Romans would agree with his decision to What does Antony mean by “I come to bury
protect the Republic. Caesar, not to praise him”?
“Who is here so vile that will not love his Explain: “The evil that men do lives after
country?” implies that anyone who disagrees them; the good is oft interred with their
with Caesar’s assassination lacks patriotism bones.”
and loyalty to Rome. (ii) How does Antony introduce his speech in a
(ii) Brutus uses rhetorical questions to engage way that appeals to the Plebeians?
the Plebeians, compelling them to reflect on What does Antony mean by “So let it be with
their values of loyalty and patriotism while Caesar”?
aligning those values with his justification for How does Antony reference Brutus in this
Caesar’s death. extract?
“I pause for a reply” emphasizes his confidence

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(iii) How does this opening reflect Antony’s (v) Antony’s claim that he comes to “bury
rhetorical strategy? Caesar, not to praise him” is insincere, as his
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow speech is designed to honor Caesar and turn
Antony’s ability to manipulate the crowd? the crowd against the conspirators.
(iv) How does Antony’s tone in this extract reflect His later appeals to the crowd’s emotions,
both respect for Brutus and subtle doubt such as reading Caesar’s will and showing
about Caesar’s ambition? his wounds, demonstrate his intent to incite
What does this reveal about Antony’s skill as rebellion and avenge Caesar’s death.
an orator?
(v) Do you think Antony’s claim that he comes to 22. Read the following extract and answer the
“bury Caesar, not to praise him” is sincere? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to his Antony:
intentions and the impact of his speech. But yesterday the word of Caesar might
Have stood against the world. Now lies he there,
Ans And none so poor to do him reverence.
(i) “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me O masters, if I were disposed to stir
your ears” is Antony’s way of respectfully Your hearts and minds to mutiny and rage,
addressing the Plebeians and asking for their I should do Brutus wrong and Cassius wrong,
attention. Who, you all know, are honorable men.
By “I come to bury Caesar, not to praise (i) What does Antony mean by “But yesterday
him,” Antony presents himself as impartial, the word of Caesar might have stood against
downplaying his intent to honor Caesar. the world”?
“The evil that men do lives after them; the What does Antony mean by “And none so
good is oft interred with their bones” means poor to do him reverence”?
that people’s wrongdoings are remembered Explain: “If I were disposed to stir your hearts
while their virtues are forgotten, suggesting and minds to mutiny and rage.”
that Caesar’s positive traits may be (ii) How does Antony use irony in this extract to
overlooked. influence the crowd?
(ii) Antony appeals to the Plebeians by addressing Why does Antony repeatedly refer to Brutus
them as equals and appearing calm and non- and Cassius as “honorable men”?
confrontational in his opening lines. What effect does this have on the Plebeians?
“So let it be with Caesar” signifies Antony’s (iii) How does Antony contrast Caesar’s past
reluctant acceptance of Brutus’s claim that power with his current state?
Caesar was ambitious, setting up his subtle What does this reveal about Antony’s grief
contradiction. and his view of the conspirators?
Antony references Brutus by calling him (iv) How does Antony’s speech reflect his
“noble,” maintaining an outward show of rhetorical strategy and ability to manipulate
respect while planting doubt about Brutus’s the crowd?
judgment. What earlier moments in the play prepare the
(iii) This opening reflects Antony’s rhetorical audience for Antony’s persuasive abilities?
strategy of appearing respectful and unbiased (v) Do you think Antony’s approach to turning
while subtly undermining Brutus’s credibility. the crowd against the conspirators is justified?
Earlier moments, such as Antony’s agreement Support your answer with reference to his
with Brutus to speak at Caesar’s funeral, loyalty to Caesar and the conspirators’
foreshadow his ability to manipulate the crowd actions.
by balancing diplomacy with persuasion. Ans
(iv) Antony’s tone conveys respect for Brutus
by calling him “noble,” but his phrasing (i) By “But yesterday the word of Caesar might
introduces subtle doubt about whether have stood against the world,” Antony
Caesar’s ambition warranted his death. highlights Caesar’s immense power and
This reveals Antony’s skill as an orator, as influence before his assassination.
he uses careful language to gain the crowd’s “And none so poor to do him reverence”
trust while gradually swaying their opinion. means that even the lowest in society no
longer show Caesar respect, emphasizing how

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

drastically his status has fallen in death. What is Antony’s purpose in showing Caesar’s
“If I were disposed to stir your hearts and body to the crowd?
minds to mutiny and rage” means Antony How does Antony’s tone influence the
claims he is not inciting rebellion, though his Plebeians in this moment?
tone and words subtly suggest otherwise. (iii) How does this moment reflect Antony’s
(ii) Antony uses irony by repeatedly calling ability to manipulate the crowd’s emotions?
Brutus and Cassius “honorable men” while What earlier actions in the play reveal
his tone and examples undermine their honor, Antony’s skill in persuasion?
planting doubt in the crowd’s minds. (iv) How does Antony’s appeal to the Plebeians
The repeated phrase creates a contrast foreshadow the consequences of his speech?
between their supposed honor and the violent What does this reveal about his understanding
betrayal of Caesar, making the Plebeians of the crowd’s emotions?
question their motives. (v) Do you think Antony’s strategy of using the
This has a profound effect on the Plebeians, will and Caesar’s body is justified?
gradually turning their emotions against the Support your answer with reference to his
conspirators. loyalty to Caesar and his goals for Rome.
(iii) Antony contrasts Caesar’s past power with his Ans
current vulnerability in death, highlighting
(i) By “You will compel me, then, to read the
the tragedy of his fall from greatness.
will,” Antony pretends to hesitate, using the
This reveals Antony’s grief for Caesar and his
Plebeians’ curiosity and insistence to heighten
disdain for the conspirators, who he believes
their anticipation and emotions.
betrayed a noble and powerful leader.
“The corpse of Caesar” refers to Caesar’s
(iv) Antony’s speech reflects his rhetorical
lifeless body, which Antony plans to use as
strategy of using irony, appeals to emotion,
a visual symbol of the conspirators’ betrayal
and subtle manipulation to sway the crowd.
and brutality.
Earlier moments, such as his agreement
“Shall I descend? And will you give me leave?”
with Brutus to speak at Caesar’s funeral,
means that Antony asks for permission to
foreshadow his ability to navigate political
step down and engage more directly with the
situations and influence public opinion.
crowd, emphasizing his humility and respect.
(v) Antony’s approach to turning the crowd
(ii) Antony uses the will to ignite the Plebeians’
against the conspirators is justified, as he
curiosity, as it promises them benefits, and
seeks justice for Caesar and exposes the
Caesar’s corpse to evoke their pity and anger.
conspirators’ questionable motives.
His purpose in showing Caesar’s body is
However, his actions also unleash chaos and
to visually demonstrate the violence of the
violence, suggesting that his methods, while
assassination, making the betrayal more
effective, have significant consequences for
tangible and stirring the crowd’s emotions.
Rome’s stability.
Antony’s tone, which is a mix of hesitation
23. Read the following extract and answer the and suggestion, manipulates the Plebeians
questions that follow: into becoming more invested and outraged,
Antony: aligning them with his goals.
You will compel me, then, to read the will? (iii) This moment reflects Antony’s ability to
Then make a ring about the corpse of Caesar, manipulate the crowd’s emotions by appealing
And let me show you him that made the will. to their grief, anger, and curiosity.
Shall I descend? And will you give me leave? Earlier actions, such as his calculated agreement
(i) What does Antony mean by “You will compel with Brutus and his ironic references to the
me, then, to read the will”? conspirators as “honorable men,” show his
What is Antony referring to by “the corpse skill in persuasion and rhetoric.
of Caesar”? (iv) Antony’s appeal foreshadows the chaos
Explain: “Shall I descend? And will you give and rebellion that follow his speech, as the
me leave?” Plebeians become enraged by the conspirators’
(ii) How does Antony use the will and Caesar’s betrayal.
corpse as rhetorical tools? It reveals Antony’s deep understanding of the
crowd’s emotions and his ability to channel

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their grief and anger into action against the of Caesar’s military victory, highlighting his
conspirators. strength and heroism.
(v) Antony’s strategy of using the will and (ii) Antony uses the mantle as a symbol of Caesar’s
Caesar’s body is justified, as he seeks to honor greatness and vulnerability, connecting it to
Caesar’s legacy and expose the conspirators’ his triumphs and the betrayal of his murder.
motives. He emphasizes Caesar’s victory over the
However, his actions also lead to violence and Nervii to remind the Plebeians of Caesar’s
civil unrest, raising questions about whether achievements and his contributions to Rome.
his methods, while effective, ultimately This stirs pride and sorrow in the Plebeians,
benefit Rome’s stability. deepening their emotional connection to
Caesar and their anger at the conspirators.
24. Read the following extract and answer the (iii) Antony appeals to the Plebeians’ emotions by
questions that follow: using vivid imagery and personal anecdotes
Antony: to humanize Caesar and evoke their grief.
If you have tears, prepare to shed them now. Earlier actions, such as his repetition of
You all do know this mantle. I remember “honorable men” to subtly undermine the
The first time ever Caesar put it on. conspirators, demonstrate Antony’s skill in
It was on a summer’s evening in his tent, manipulating public sentiment.
That day he overcame the Nervii. (iv) This extract reflects Antony’s use of imagery
(i) What does Antony mean by “If you have and nostalgia to create a powerful emotional
tears, prepare to shed them now”? response, painting Caesar as a heroic yet
What is Antony referring to by “this mantle”? tragic figure.
Explain: “It was on a summer’s evening in his It reveals Antony’s deep understanding of the
tent, that day he overcame the Nervii.” Plebeians’ emotions, as he skillfully channels
(ii) How does Antony use the mantle as a symbol their grief and admiration for Caesar into
in this speech? anger at the conspirators.
Why does Antony emphasize his memory of (v) Antony’s strategy of using personal memories
Caesar’s victory over the Nervii? and symbols is highly effective, as it evokes
What effect does this have on the Plebeians? the Plebeians’ sympathy and turns them
(iii) How does Antony appeal to the emotions of against the conspirators.
the Plebeians in this extract? His ability to connect Caesar’s achievements
What earlier actions in the play demonstrate to his murder highlights the conspirators’
Antony’s ability to manipulate public betrayal, aligning the crowd with Antony’s
sentiment? goals for vengeance and justice.
(iv) How does this extract reflect Antony’s use of
imagery and nostalgia to evoke sympathy for
Caesar?
What does this reveal about Antony’s 25. Read the following extract and answer the
understanding of the Plebeians’ emotions? questions that follow:
(v) Do you think Antony’s strategy of using Antony:
personal memories and symbols is effective? Good friends, sweet friends, let me not stir you up
Support your answer with reference to his To such a sudden flood of mutiny.
goals and the Plebeians’ reaction. They that have done this deed are honorable.
Ans What private griefs they have, alas, I know not,
That made them do it. They are wise and
(i) “If you have tears, prepare to shed them now” honorable
means that Antony is preparing the Plebeians And will no doubt with reasons answer you.
for an emotional moment, appealing to their (i) What does Antony mean by “let me not stir
grief over Caesar’s death. you up to such a sudden flood of mutiny”?
“This mantle” refers to Caesar’s cloak, which Why does Antony refer to the conspirators as
Antony uses as a symbol of Caesar’s life and “honorable”?
achievements. Explain: “What private griefs they have, alas,
“It was on a summer’s evening in his tent, that I know not.”
day he overcame the Nervii” evokes a memory

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(ii) How does Antony maintain a tone of respect for (iv) Antony’s speech reflects his understanding of
the conspirators while subtly inciting the crowd? the Plebeians’ emotions, as he appeals to their
What rhetorical strategy does Antony use to grief for Caesar and their desire for justice.
plant doubt in the Plebeians’ minds? This moment foreshadows the crowd’s
How does Antony’s tone influence the crowd eventual revolt against the conspirators, as
in this moment? Antony’s words incite them to question the
(iii) How does Antony manipulate the Plebeians’ legitimacy of Caesar’s assassination.
emotions in this extract? (v) Antony’s strategy of appearing respectful
What earlier moments in the play demonstrate while undermining the conspirators is
Antony’s ability to sway public opinion? highly effective, as it allows him to turn
(iv) How does Antony’s speech reflect his the crowd against them without appearing
understanding of the Plebeians’ emotions and confrontational.
priorities? The crowd’s eventual rebellion demonstrates
What does this moment foreshadow about the the success of Antony’s approach, as his
crowd’s response to Caesar’s assassination? rhetoric aligns their emotions with his goals
(v) Do you think Antony’s strategy of appearing for justice and revenge.
respectful while undermining the conspirators 26. Read the following extract and answer the
is effective? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to his Antony:
goals and the crowd’s reaction. Moreover, he hath left you all his walks,
Ans His private arbors, and new-planted orchards,
(i) “Let me not stir you up to such a sudden On this side Tiber. He hath left them you,
flood of mutiny” means that Antony pretends And to your heirs forever—common pleasures
to dissuade the Plebeians from rebelling, To walk abroad and recreate yourselves.
while subtly encouraging their anger. Here was a Caesar! When comes such another?
By calling the conspirators “honorable,” (i) What does Antony mean by “he hath left you
Antony uses irony to question their integrity all his walks”?
without directly accusing them. What is the significance of Caesar leaving “his
“What private griefs they have, alas, I know private arbors, and new-planted orchards” to
not” suggests that Antony feigns ignorance the citizens?
about the conspirators’ motives, implying Explain: “Here was a Caesar! When comes
that their reasons for killing Caesar may be such another?”
self-serving. (ii) How does Antony use Caesar’s will to appeal
(ii) Antony maintains a tone of respect for the to the Plebeians?
conspirators by repeatedly calling them Why does Antony emphasize Caesar’s
“honorable,” while his examples of Caesar’s generosity in this extract?
virtues create a stark contrast. What effect does Antony hope to achieve
He uses rhetorical strategies such as irony and with this part of his speech?
subtle doubt to undermine the conspirators’ (iii) How does Antony’s tone in this extract
credibility, making the Plebeians question influence the Plebeians’ emotions?
their motives. What earlier actions in Antony’s speech
Antony’s tone, which mixes respect with demonstrate his ability to manipulate public
subtle sarcasm, influences the crowd by sentiment?
planting seeds of doubt and anger toward the (iv) How does this moment reflect Antony’s
conspirators. rhetorical strategy and understanding of the
(iii) Antony manipulates the Plebeians’ emotions Plebeians’ values?
by highlighting Caesar’s virtues and leaving What does this reveal about his goals for
the conspirators’ motives ambiguous, stirring turning the crowd against the conspirators?
their grief and suspicion. (v) Do you think Antony’s use of Caesar’s will in
Earlier moments, such as Antony’s agreement his speech is justified?
with Brutus to speak at Caesar’s funeral and Support your answer with reference to his
his use of Caesar’s will, demonstrate his skill loyalty to Caesar and his intentions for Rome.
in swaying public opinion.

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Ans 27. Read the following extract and answer the

questions that follow:
(i) By “he hath left you all his walks,” Antony
Antony:
refers to Caesar’s will, which bequeaths his
And thither will I straight to visit him. He comes
gardens and orchards to the citizens of Rome
upon a wish. Fortune is merry
for their use and enjoyment.
And in this mood will give us anything.
The significance of Caesar leaving “his private
Servant:
arbors, and new-planted orchards” lies in his
I heard him say Brutus and Cassius
generosity and desire to leave a legacy that
Are rid like madmen through the gates of Rome.
benefits the Roman people.
Antony:
“Here was a Caesar! When comes such
Belike they had some notice of the people
another?” means that Antony emphasizes
How I had moved them. Bring me to Octavius.
Caesar’s greatness and suggests that no
(i) What does Antony mean by “He comes upon
one else will ever match his qualities and
a wish”?
contributions.
Why does Antony say, “Fortune is merry and
(ii) Antony uses Caesar’s will to appeal to the
in this mood will give us anything”?
Plebeians by highlighting Caesar’s care
Explain: “Belike they had some notice of the
for them, even in death, as he leaves them
people how I had moved them.”
valuable gifts.
(ii) What does the servant report about Brutus
He emphasizes Caesar’s generosity to evoke
and Cassius?
gratitude and admiration, contrasting it
How does this reflect the impact of Antony’s
with the conspirators’ claim that Caesar was
funeral speech?
ambitious.
What does Antony plan to do after hearing
Antony hopes to incite the Plebeians’ anger
this news?
at the conspirators by showing that Caesar’s
(iii) How does this moment highlight Antony’s
actions were selfless and for the common
confidence in his influence over the Roman
good.
people?
(iii) Antony’s tone is reverent and emotional,
What earlier actions in the play demonstrate
which stirs the Plebeians’ grief and admiration
Antony’s ability to manipulate public
for Caesar while creating resentment toward
opinion?
the conspirators.
(iv) How does this extract foreshadow the future
Earlier in his speech, Antony shows Caesar’s
conflict between Antony, Octavius, and the
mantle and mentions his wounds, building an
conspirators?
emotional connection that primes the crowd
What does Antony’s reaction reveal about his
for his revelation of the will.
strategic mindset?
(iv) This moment reflects Antony’s rhetorical
(v) Do you think Antony’s belief in “Fortune”
strategy of using tangible examples, such as
and his ability to move the people is justified?
Caesar’s will, to connect with the Plebeians’
Support your answer with reference to his
values of fairness and generosity.
actions and their consequences in the play.
It reveals Antony’s goal to turn the crowd
against the conspirators by portraying Caesar Ans
as a selfless leader and the conspirators as (i) By “He comes upon a wish,” Antony refers to
betrayers of Rome. Octavius’s timely arrival, which aligns with
(v) Antony’s use of Caesar’s will is justified, as Antony’s needs for support and alliance.
it aligns with his loyalty to Caesar and his “Fortune is merry and in this mood will give
desire to honor his friend’s legacy. us anything” means that Antony believes
However, his method is also manipulative, as events are turning in his favor, and fate is
he uses the will as a rhetorical tool to incite working to his advantage.
the Plebeians’ anger and provoke chaos, “Belike they had some notice of the people
leading to civil unrest. how I had moved them” suggests that Brutus
and Cassius fled Rome after realizing that
Antony’s speech had successfully turned the
crowd against them.

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(ii) The servant reports that Brutus and Cassius (ii) What does the mob plan to do after dealing
fled “like madmen” through the gates of Rome, with Cinna?
indicating their fear of the mob’s wrath. How does the line “Come, brands ho!”
This reflects the impact of Antony’s funeral highlight their intentions?
speech, which incited the Plebeians to revolt What does this reveal about their response to
against the conspirators. Caesar’s death?
Antony plans to meet Octavius and strategize (iii) How does this moment reflect the consequences
their next steps, consolidating power and of Antony’s funeral speech?
preparing to confront the conspirators. What earlier events in the play led to the
(iii) This moment highlights Antony’s confidence citizens’ violent reaction?
in his ability to sway the Roman people, as (iv) What role does the mob play in this scene,
he acknowledges the power of his speech in and how does it contribute to the theme of
stirring their emotions. chaos and disorder?
Earlier actions, such as his use of Caesar’s will How does this chaos foreshadow the future of
and his dramatic portrayal of Caesar’s wounds, Rome under Antony and Octavius?
demonstrate Antony’s skill in manipulating (v) Do you think the mob’s actions in this scene
public opinion to achieve his goals. are justified?
(iv) This extract foreshadows the future Support your opinion with reference to their
conflict between Antony, Octavius, and the emotions and the influence of Antony’s
conspirators, as the alliance between Antony rhetoric.
and Octavius strengthens against Brutus and
Ans
Cassius.
Antony’s reaction reveals his strategic (i) The “Cinna” mentioned is Cinna the poet,
mindset, as he quickly pivots from moving the who is mistaken by the citizens for Cinna the
crowd to consolidating alliances and preparing conspirator.
for the next phase of the power struggle. The line “pluck but his name out of his heart”
(v) Antony’s belief in “Fortune” and his ability suggests that the mob is solely focused on the
to move the people is justified, as his funeral name “Cinna,” disregarding whether he is
speech has successfully turned the tide in his truly guilty.
favor and caused the conspirators to flee. This reflects the irrational and violent nature
However, relying on public opinion and of mob mentality, as they act on impulse
alliances can be precarious, as the ensuing without verifying the facts.
chaos and civil war reveal the instability of (ii) After dealing with Cinna, the mob plans to
Rome after Caesar’s death. burn the homes of Brutus, Cassius, Decius,
Casca, and Ligarius, showing their anger and
desire for vengeance.
SCENE 3 The line “Come, brands ho!” highlights their
destructive intentions, as they prepare to use
28. Read the following extract and answer the
fire to vent their fury.
questions that follow:
This reveals the citizens’ uncontrollable rage in
Fourth Citizen: It is no matter, his name’s Cinna;
response to Caesar’s death, fueled by Antony’s
pluck but
manipulation during his funeral speech.
his name out of his heart, and turn him going.
(iii) This moment reflects the consequences of
Third Citizen: Tear him, tear him! Come, brands
Antony’s funeral speech, which incited the
ho!
crowd to turn against the conspirators.
firebrands to Brutus’ to Cassius’; burn all: some
Earlier, Antony used Caesar’s will and his
to Decius’
rhetoric to stir the citizens’ emotions, leading
house, and some to Casca’s; some to Ligarius’:
to this violent reaction against anyone
away, go!
associated with the conspirators.
(i) Who is the “Cinna” mentioned in the extract,
(iv) The mob represents the chaos and disorder
and why is he targeted by the citizens?
unleashed by Caesar’s assassination and
What does the Fourth Citizen mean by “pluck
Antony’s rhetoric. Their actions highlight the
but his name out of his heart”?
dangers of unchecked anger and manipulation.
How does this reflect the mob’s mentality?

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This chaos foreshadows the instability and “I have no will to wander forth of doors, yet
bloodshed that will follow in Rome, as Antony something leads me forth” reflects Cinna’s
and Octavius rise to power amid civil unrest. reluctance to go outside due to his unease,
(v) The mob’s actions are not justified, as but he feels compelled to leave, possibly by
their violence stems from ignorance and fate or external forces.
manipulation rather than rational thought. (ii) This moment reflects Cinna’s sense of
They target innocent individuals like Cinna foreboding, as he interprets his dream as an
the poet based solely on his name. unlucky sign.
However, their emotions are understandable, His reluctance to go out suggests that he is
as Antony’s speech has effectively channeled deeply unsettled and aware of the potential
their grief and anger over Caesar’s death into danger in Rome’s chaotic atmosphere.
a vengeful frenzy. This creates tension by hinting at an
impending event that will involve Cinna,
29. Read the following extract and answer the aligning with the larger themes of fate and
questions that follow: disorder in the play.
Cinna: (iii) Shakespeare uses dreams and premonitions to
I dreamt tonight that I did feast with Caesar, build suspense and highlight the characters’
And things unluckily charge my fantasy. inner fears, as seen in this extract and earlier
I have no will to wander forth of doors, warnings like Calpurnia’s dream about
Yet something leads me forth. Caesar’s death.
(i) What does Cinna mean by “I dreamt tonight Other moments, such as the Soothsayer’s
that I did feast with Caesar”? warning to “Beware the Ides of March,”
What does he mean by “things unluckily similarly serve as omens that foreshadow
charge my fantasy”? significant events.
Explain: “I have no will to wander forth of (iv) This extract foreshadows Cinna’s tragic fate,
doors, yet something leads me forth.” as he is mistaken for Cinna the conspirator
(ii) How does this moment reflect Cinna’s sense and killed by the mob, despite his innocence.
of foreboding? It reveals the chaotic state of Rome following
What does his reluctance to go out suggest Caesar’s assassination, where fear and anger
about his state of mind? override logic and justice.
How does this create tension in the scene? (v) Cinna’s decision to venture out despite his
(iii) How does Shakespeare use dreams and unease can reflect inevitability, as he feels
premonitions to build suspense in the play? compelled by forces beyond his control,
What earlier moments in the play feature aligning with the theme of fate in the play.
similar warnings or omens? However, it may also reflect courage,
(iv) How does this extract foreshadow Cinna’s as he chooses to face his fears despite
fate? his premonitions, showing his resolve in
What does this reveal about the chaotic state navigating Rome’s unstable environment.
of Rome following Caesar’s assassination?
(v) Do you think Cinna’s decision to venture out 30. Read the following extract and answer the
despite his unease is a reflection of courage or questions that follow:
inevitability? First Plebeian: What is your name?
Support your answer with reference to his Second Plebeian: Whither are you going?
character and the events of the play. Third Plebeian: Where do you dwell?
Fourth Plebeian: Are you a married man or a
Ans
bachelor?
(i) “I dreamt tonight that I did feast with (i) What is the context of the Plebeians
Caesar” refers to a dream in which Cinna questioning Cinna in this extract?
imagines being with Caesar, symbolizing a What do the Plebeians’ questions suggest
connection or unease tied to Caesar’s death. about their mindset?
“Things unluckily charge my fantasy” means Explain: “Are you a married man or a bachelor?”
that Cinna’s dream has left him with a (ii) How does the mob’s interrogation of Cinna
sense of dread or bad omens influencing his reflect the chaos in Rome?
thoughts.

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What does this moment reveal about the into chaos, with fear and vengeance taking
Plebeians’ approach to justice? precedence over justice.
How does their line of questioning heighten (v) The Plebeians’ actions are not justified, as
the tension in this scene? their violence stems from misplaced anger and
(iii) How does Shakespeare use the Plebeians to a lack of rationality, targeting an innocent
portray the theme of mob mentality? man based solely on his name.
What earlier events in the play contribute to However, their emotions are understandable,
the Plebeians’ anger and suspicion? given the manipulation by Antony’s speech
(iv) How does this interaction foreshadow Cinna’s and the instability caused by Caesar’s
fate? assassination, highlighting the power of
What does this reveal about the consequences rhetoric and mob psychology.
of Caesar’s assassination for the Roman public?
(v) Do you think the Plebeians’ actions in this 31. Read the following extract and answer the
scene are justified? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to their Second Plebeian:
emotions and the state of Rome. wer every man directly.
Ans First Plebeian: Ay, and briefly.
Fourth Plebeian: Ay, and wisely.
(i) The Plebeians are questioning Cinna the poet, Third Plebeian: Ay, and truly, you were best.
mistaking him for Cinna the conspirator, as Cinna: What is my name? Whither am I going?
they seek vengeance for Caesar’s assassination. Where
The Plebeians’ questions suggest their do I dwell? Am I a married man or a bachelor?
aggressive and irrational mindset, driven by Then to answer every man directly and briefly,
suspicion and a desire for retribution rather wisely and truly: wisely I say, I am a bachelor.
than facts. (i) What are the Plebeians demanding of Cinna
“Are you a married man or a bachelor?” in this extract?
reflects their irrationality and the absurdity What does Cinna mean by “answer every
of their interrogation, as personal details man directly and briefly”?
become grounds for judgment. Explain: “Wisely I say, I am a bachelor.”
(ii) The mob’s interrogation reflects the chaos in (ii) How does Cinna attempt to handle the
Rome, where fear and anger have turned the Plebeians’ interrogation?
citizens into an irrational and violent crowd. What does this reveal about his state of
This moment reveals the Plebeians’ misguided mind?
approach to justice, as they act on impulse How do the Plebeians’ demands heighten the
and emotions rather than logic or evidence. tension in this scene?
Their line of questioning heightens the (iii) How does Shakespeare use humor and
tension by illustrating their hostility and the absurdity in this interaction?
imminent danger Cinna faces, despite his What earlier events in the play have led to
innocence. the Plebeians’ suspicion of Cinna?
(iii) Shakespeare uses the Plebeians to portray (iv) How does this moment reflect the irrationality
the theme of mob mentality, where collective of the mob?
anger overrides reason and leads to unjust What does this reveal about the impact of
actions. Caesar’s assassination on Roman society?
Earlier events, such as Antony’s funeral speech, (v) Do you think Cinna’s calm and logical
have inflamed the Plebeians’ emotions and responses help or hinder his situation?
directed their rage toward anyone associated Support your answer with reference to his
with Caesar’s assassination. interaction with the Plebeians.
(iv) This interaction foreshadows Cinna’s tragic
fate, as the mob, driven by irrational anger, Ans
kills him despite his innocence, mistaking him (i) The Plebeians are demanding that Cinna
for the conspirator. answer their questions truthfully, directly,
It reveals the broader consequences of and concisely, as they interrogate him to
Caesar’s assassination, as Rome descends determine his identity and intentions.

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By “answer every man directly and briefly,” (i) What does the Second Plebeian mean by
Cinna acknowledges the Plebeians’ demands “You’ll bear me a bang for that, I fear”?
for straightforward answers to avoid provoking Why does Cinna say, “Directly, I am going to
them further. Caesar’s funeral”?
“Wisely I say, I am a bachelor” reflects Explain: “As a friend or an enemy?”
Cinna’s attempt to use wit and humor to (ii) How does this exchange reflect the tension
defuse the tension, while also complying with and suspicion among the Plebeians?
the Plebeians’ request for brevity and truth. What does Cinna’s response reveal about his
(ii) Cinna tries to handle the interrogation by intentions?
answering truthfully and with a tone of How does the Plebeians’ questioning heighten
compliance, hoping to calm the increasingly the danger for Cinna?
hostile crowd. (iii) How does Shakespeare use humor in this
This reveals his nervous state of mind, as he moment to contrast with the underlying
tries to navigate the mob’s aggression without tension?
provoking further suspicion or violence. What earlier events in the play have influenced
The Plebeians’ relentless demands heighten the Plebeians’ aggressive attitude?
the tension by showcasing their irrationality (iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of
and creating a sense of impending danger for mob mentality?
Cinna. What does this reveal about the state of
(iii) Shakespeare uses humor and absurdity Rome following Caesar’s assassination?
in this interaction through the Plebeians’ (v) Do you think Cinna’s honesty about his
contradictory and overly specific questions, intentions helps or harms his situation?
highlighting their irrationality. Support your answer with reference to the
Earlier events, such as Antony’s funeral Plebeians’ mindset in this scene.
speech, have fueled the Plebeians’ anger and
Ans
suspicion, making them irrationally hostile
toward anyone associated with Caesar’s death. (i) The Second Plebeian’s remark, “You’ll bear
(iv) This moment reflects the irrationality of the me a bang for that, I fear,” is a humorous
mob, as their questioning lacks logic and is comment implying that Cinna might get into
driven by anger and fear rather than reason. trouble for indirectly criticizing marriage.
It reveals how Caesar’s assassination has Cinna says, “Directly, I am going to Caesar’s
destabilized Roman society, leading to chaos funeral,” to answer truthfully and avoid
and a breakdown of order, with the mob provoking the increasingly hostile Plebeians.
targeting innocent individuals like Cinna. “As a friend or an enemy?” reflects the
(v) Cinna’s calm and logical responses Plebeians’ suspicion and demand for absolute
momentarily diffuse the tension, but his clarity about Cinna’s allegiance, showcasing
efforts ultimately fail to save him, as the mob their mistrust.
acts on emotion rather than reason. (ii) This exchange reflects the tension and
His compliance highlights the futility of logic suspicion among the Plebeians, who are
in the face of mob mentality, where irrational determined to root out anyone perceived as a
anger and vengeance override fairness and threat to Caesar’s legacy.
justice. Cinna’s response reveals that he is genuinely
attending Caesar’s funeral as a friend,
highlighting his innocence in the conspirators’
actions.
32. Read the following extract and answer the The Plebeians’ questioning heightens the
questions that follow: danger for Cinna, as their mistrust and
Second Plebeian: That’s as much as to say they irrational anger make them prone to violence,
are fools that marry. You’ll bear me a bang for regardless of his truthful answers.
that, I fear. Proceed directly. (iii) Shakespeare uses humor through the Second
Cinna: Directly, I am going to Caesar’s funeral. Plebeian’s lighthearted remarks, creating a
First Plebeian: As a friend or an enemy? brief contrast to the underlying tension of the
Cinna: As a friend. mob’s hostility.

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Earlier events, such as Antony’s funeral Ans

speech, have inflamed the Plebeians’ (i) Cinna answers the Plebeians’ question about
emotions, turning them into an aggressive his residence with “Briefly, I dwell by the
and irrational force seeking vengeance. Capitol,” hoping to satisfy their demands.
(iv) This extract reflects the theme of mob mentality, “Truly, my name is Cinna” reflects Cinna’s
as the Plebeians act collectively on suspicion honesty in identifying himself, unaware that
and anger, rather than logic or fairness. his name will lead to his tragic fate.
It reveals the chaotic state of Rome following “Tear him to pieces! He’s a conspirator”
Caesar’s assassination, where fear and shows the mob’s irrational decision to attack
vengeance have replaced order and justice. Cinna simply because of his name, mistaking
(v) Cinna’s honesty about his intentions harms him for Cinna the conspirator.
his situation, as the Plebeians are too enraged (ii) The Plebeians’ reaction to Cinna’s name
and irrational to differentiate between friend highlights their irrationality, as they
and foe. immediately equate him with the conspirator
The Plebeians’ mindset, fueled by Antony’s without verifying his identity.
rhetoric and their grief for Caesar, leads them Cinna’s honesty reveals his innocence and
to act impulsively and violently, regardless of integrity, as he answers the mob truthfully
Cinna’s innocence. despite the growing hostility.
This moment heightens the tension as
33. Read the following extract and answer the the Plebeians’ anger turns into violence,
questions that follow: emphasizing the dangerous power of mob
Second Plebeian: That matter is answered directly. mentality.
Fourth Plebeian: For your dwelling—briefly. (iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to portray the
Cinna: Briefly, I dwell by the Capitol. dangers of mob mentality, where collective
Third Plebeian: Your name, sir, truly. anger overrides reason and leads to unjust
Cinna: Truly, my name is Cinna. actions.
First Plebeian: Tear him to pieces! He’s a Earlier events, such as Antony’s funeral
conspirator. speech, have inflamed the Plebeians’ emotions
(i) What question does Cinna answer with and directed their anger toward anyone
“Briefly, I dwell by the Capitol”? associated with Caesar’s death.
What does Cinna mean by “Truly, my name (iv) This extract foreshadows the tragic
is Cinna”? consequences of the mob’s actions, as their
Explain: “Tear him to pieces! He’s a irrational anger leads to the wrongful death
conspirator.” of an innocent man.
(ii) How does the Plebeians’ reaction to Cinna’s It reveals the social and political instability
name highlight their irrationality? in Rome, where fear and chaos dominate, and
What does Cinna’s honesty reveal about his justice is replaced by vengeance.
character? (v) The Plebeians’ reaction to Cinna is not
How does this moment heighten the tension justified, as their violence stems from
in the scene? misplaced anger and a failure to distinguish
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to between the poet and the conspirator.
portray the dangers of mob mentality? However, their emotions are understandable,
What earlier events in the play contribute to given the manipulation they have experienced
the Plebeians’ anger and suspicion? through Antony’s speech and their grief over
(iv) How does this extract foreshadow the tragic Caesar’s assassination.
consequences of the mob’s actions?
What does this reveal about the social and 34. Read the following extract and answer the
political instability in Rome? questions that follow:
(v) Do you think the Plebeians’ reaction to Cinna Cinna: I am Cinna the poet, I am Cinna the poet!
is justified in the context of the play? Fourth Plebeian: Tear him for his bad verses, tear
Support your answer with reference to their him for his bad verses!
emotions and the manipulation they have Cinna: I am not Cinna the conspirator.
experienced.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 63

Fourth Plebeian: It is no matter. His name’s (iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to highlight
Cinna. the dangers of mob mentality, where collective
Pluck but his name out of his heart, and turn him anger overrides logic and leads to unjust
going. violence.
(i) What does Cinna mean by “I am Cinna the Earlier events, such as Antony’s funeral
poet”? speech, have manipulated the Plebeians’
What does the Fourth Plebeian mean by emotions, channeling their grief and rage into
“Tear him for his bad verses”? irrational acts of vengeance.
Explain: “Pluck but his name out of his heart, (iv) This extract foreshadows the tragic
and turn him going.” consequences of unchecked anger and chaos,
(ii) How does the mob’s reaction to Cinna’s name as the mob’s actions lead to the death of an
highlight their irrationality? innocent man.
What does Cinna’s repeated plea reveal about It reveals the state of Rome after Caesar’s
his state of mind? assassination, where fear and instability
How does the Fourth Plebeian’s response have given rise to irrational violence and the
intensify the danger for Cinna? breakdown of order.
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to (v) The Plebeians’ actions in this scene reflect
highlight the dangers of mob mentality? blind rage rather than a desire for justice,
What earlier events in the play have as they act impulsively and irrationally,
contributed to the Plebeians’ irrational targeting an innocent man.
behavior? Their behavior is a direct result of Antony’s
(iv) How does this extract foreshadow the tragic manipulation during his funeral speech, which
consequences of unchecked anger and chaos? fueled their emotions without guiding their
What does this moment reveal about the actions toward reason or fairness.
state of Rome after Caesar’s assassination?
(v) Do you think the Plebeians’ actions in this
scene reflect a desire for justice or blind rage?
Support your answer with reference to the 35. Read the following extract and answer the
mob’s behavior and manipulation by Antony. questions that follow:
Ans Third Plebeian: Tear him, tear him! Come,
brands, ho, firebrands!
(i) By “I am Cinna the poet,” Cinna desperately
To Brutus’, to Cassius’, burn all! Some
tries to distinguish himself from Cinna the
to Decius’ house, and some to Casca’s, some to
conspirator, pleading for his life.
Ligarius’. Away, go!
The Fourth Plebeian’s remark, “Tear him for
(i) What does “Tear him, tear him!” reflect
his bad verses,” adds an absurd and irrational
about the mob’s emotions?
justification for violence, showing the mob’s
What does “Come, brands, ho, firebrands!”
descent into chaos.
suggest about the mob’s intentions?
“Pluck but his name out of his heart, and
Explain: “To Brutus’, to Cassius’, burn all!”
turn him going” means that the mob sees
(ii) How does this moment reflect the mob’s
Cinna’s name as sufficient cause for their
transformation from mourners to rioters?
violence, regardless of his actual identity.
What does their anger toward the conspirators
(ii) The mob’s reaction to Cinna’s name highlights
reveal about the influence of Antony’s speech?
their irrationality, as they attack him solely
How does this moment heighten the tension
based on his name without considering his
in the play?
innocence.
(iii) How does Shakespeare use the mob’s actions
Cinna’s repeated plea, “I am Cinna the poet,”
to portray the theme of chaos and disorder?
reveals his desperation and fear as he tries to
What earlier events in the play contribute to
convince the mob of his harmlessness.
the Plebeians’ violent reaction?
The Fourth Plebeian’s response intensifies
(iv) How does this extract foreshadow the
the danger by dismissing Cinna’s identity,
consequences of the mob’s actions for Rome?
showing that the mob’s anger has blinded
What does this reveal about the breakdown
them to reason.
of order and justice in the city?

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Ch 1 : Julius Caesar Act 3

(v) Do you think the mob’s violent response is speech, highlighting the power of rhetoric to
justified? influence and control a volatile crowd.
Support your answer with reference to their
emotions and the manipulation they have
experienced. www.nodia.i

Ans
(i) “Tear him, tear him!” reflects the mob’s
uncontrollable rage, as they demand violent
retribution against anyone associated with
Caesar’s assassination.
“Come, brands, ho, firebrands!” suggests
the mob’s intention to burn the houses of
the conspirators, escalating their anger into
destructive action.
“To Brutus’, to Cassius’, burn all!” shows the
mob’s focus on targeting the conspirators,
seeking vengeance for Caesar’s death by
destroying their property.
(ii) This moment reflects the mob’s transformation
from mourners into rioters, driven by grief
and rage after Antony’s manipulation during
Caesar’s funeral.
Their anger toward the conspirators reveals
the effectiveness of Antony’s speech in
redirecting their emotions and inciting
rebellion.
This moment heightens the tension in the
play, as the mob’s actions signal the collapse
of order and the beginning of widespread
chaos in Rome.
(iii) Shakespeare uses the mob’s actions to portray
the theme of chaos and disorder, showing how
collective anger can lead to irrational and
destructive behavior.
Earlier events, such as Antony’s funeral
speech and the conspirators’ justification
for Caesar’s assassination, contribute to the
Plebeians’ violent reaction by inflaming their
emotions.
(iv) This extract foreshadows the consequences
of the mob’s actions, as their violence and
destruction further destabilize Rome, leading
to civil unrest and war.
It reveals the breakdown of order and justice
in the city, where vengeance and emotion
replace rationality and fairness.
(v) The mob’s violent response is not justified,
as their actions stem from manipulated
emotions and irrational anger, leading to
unjust destruction and harm.
However, their reaction is understandable,
given the grief and fury stoked by Antony’s

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CHAPTER
2
JULIUS CAESAR : ACT 4

SUMMAR • He informs Octavius of their efforts to gather

an army and seize power.
• Antony emphasizes the urgency of confronting
and defeating them, urging Octavius to focus
SCENE 1 on organizing their troops and strategies.
This scene highlights the growing tension and
political manipulation within the triumvirate,
showcasing Antony’s cunning nature and his focus on
SCENE 2
consolidating power while preparing for the looming This scene reveals the growing tension between Brutus
conflict with Brutus and Cassius. and Cassius, highlighting their strained alliance and
the importance of maintaining a united front as they
1. Formation of the Second Triumvirate prepare for the impending battle against Antony and
• Antony, Lepidus, and Octavius meet to finalize Octavius.
their alliance as the Second Triumvirate of 1. Setting and Context
Rome.
• The scene takes place at Brutus’s camp in
• They prepare a list of enemies to eliminate,
Sardis, outside of Rome.
agreeing on the execution of Lepidus’s brother
• Brutus and Cassius have gathered forces from
and Antony’s nephew.
various Roman provinces and now meet to
2. Antony’s Manipulative Intentions prepare for their confrontation with Antony
and Octavius.
• Antony sends Lepidus to fetch Caesar’s will,
planning to reduce some of the bequests made 2. Prelude to Cassius’s Arrival
to the people of Rome. • Arrival of Messengers Titinius and Pindarus
• After Lepidus departs, Antony confides in arrive ahead of Cassius, followed by Lucilius,
Octavius that Lepidus is unfit for leadership. who has visited Cassius beforehand.
• Antony describes Lepidus as a mere tool • Brutus’s Disapproval Brutus expresses
to be used for their purposes and later dissatisfaction with some of Cassius’s recent
discarded, even planning to blame him for actions and wishes they could be undone.
future misdeeds. • Pindarus’s Reassurance Pindarus assures
Brutus that Cassius is nearby and ready to
3. Conflict Between Antony and Octavius answer any concerns.
• Octavius defends Lepidus, claiming he is a
seasoned and brave soldier. 3. Brutus’s Perception of Cassius
• Antony dismisses this, comparing Lepidus • Lucilius’s Report Lucilius delivers a letter
to his horse—a creature to be trained and from Cassius to Brutus and mentions that
controlled. Cassius’s behavior toward him was cold and
formal.
4. Focus Shifts to Brutus and Cassius • Brutus’s Reaction Brutus criticizes Cassius,
• To avoid further disagreement, Antony calling him deceitful and comparing him to
redirects the conversation to the growing a “hot friend cooling,” indicating a strain in
threat posed by Brutus and Cassius. their relationship.

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

4. Cassius Confronts Brutus 9. News from Messala

• Cassius’s Accusation Upon arriving, Cassius • Executions by Octavius and Antony Messala
accuses Brutus of wrongdoing. informs Brutus of the executions of several
• Brutus’s Response Brutus denies the senators, including Cicero.
accusations, asserting that he would never • Portia’s Death Confirmed Messala also
harm a friend, especially one he considers a reports Portia’s death, but Brutus remains
brother. composed.

5. Call for Unity 10. Debate Over Battle Strategy

• Brutus’s Advice Brutus emphasizes the • Cassius’s Proposal Cassius suggests staying in
importance of unity and maintaining their current position and letting the enemy
composure, particularly in front of their come to them.
soldiers, to avoid undermining morale. • Brutus’s Argument Brutus disagrees, arguing
• Private Discussion Brutus invites Cassius into that staying put would allow the opposing
his tent to resolve their differences in private. forces to grow. He insists on marching to
Philippi.
SCENE 3 11. Brutus’s Encounter with Caesar’s Ghost
This scene highlights the strain in Brutus and Cassius’s • Rest and Music Brutus asks Varro and
alliance, the personal losses they endure, and the Claudius to stay near him while Lucilius
looming sense of destiny and guilt that haunts Brutus plays a tune until he falls asleep.
through Caesar’s ghost. The scene builds tension for • The Ghost Appears Brutus awakens to see
the climactic battle at Philippi. Caesar’s ghost, which tells him they will meet
again at Philippi.
6. The Quarrel Between Brutus and Cassius
• Confusion Among Servants Shaken, Brutus
• Cassius’s Complaint Inside the tent, Cassius wakes Varro and Claudius, but they claim
accuses Brutus of denouncing Lucius Pella they saw and heard nothing.
for accepting bribes despite Cassius’s letters
defending him. Cassius argues for leniency in 12. Decision to March
the current chaotic times. • Brutus, still disturbed, resolves to leave for
• Brutus’s Rebuttal Brutus disagrees, accusing Philippi immediately and leaves a message for
Cassius of greed and hypocrisy for condoning Cassius to join him in the morning.
bribery while Caesar was killed for justice.
• Escalation The argument intensifies with
insults and anger. Cassius reminds Brutus of
his experience and refuses to be dominated. MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
7. Emotional Climax
• Cassius’s Despair Cassius, feeling betrayed, SCENE 1
expresses his frustration and pulls out his
1. Which trio enters at the start of the scene?
dagger, declaring his weariness of the world.
(a) Brutus, Cassius, and Casca
• Brutus’s Intervention Brutus calms Cassius
(b) Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus
and advises him to redirect his anger toward
(c) Octavius, Lepidus, and Publius
their common enemies.
(d) Antony, Lepidus, and Caesar
8. Tragedy of Portia Ans
• Portia’s Suicide Cassius learns from Brutus (b) Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus
that Portia has killed herself by swallowing
The excerpt begins with these three leaders
burning coal after hearing of Antony and
walking onstage, discussing who must die.
Octavius’s alliance.
Their alliance holds power over Rome, and this
• Brutus’s Numbness Brutus appears stoic,
conversation sets the dark tone of the scene.
showing little emotion about her death.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 67

2. What does Octavius specifically tell Lepidus 6. How does Antony describe Lepidus once Lepidus
about his own brother? exits?
(a) He must be promoted (a) “A dear friend”
(b) He must plead for mercy (b) “A slight, unmeritable man”
(c) He must die (c) “A sly fox who deceives”
(d) He must leave Rome (d) “A generous and loyal ally”
(c) He must die
Ans
Octavius directly informs Lepidus, “Your brother
(b) “A slight, unmeritable man”
too must die.” This reveals the ruthless measures
the triumvirs take to eliminate all threats, Antony sees Lepidus as unworthy and easily
including those within their families. disposable. He calls him fit only for errands,
revealing Antony’s contempt and his readiness to
3. Which relative of Antony’s does Lepidus insist use Lepidus as a tool rather than a partner.
must also be killed?
(a) Antony’s father 7. What does Antony compare Lepidus to in terms
(b) Antony’s sister of carrying burdens?
(c) Antony’s nephew, Publius (a) A horse in battle
(d) Antony’s uncle (b) A lowly servant
(c) A donkey bearing gold
Ans (d) An eagle circling prey
(c) Antony’s nephew, Publius
Ans
Lepidus conditions his agreement to execute his
(c) A donkey bearing gold
own brother by demanding Publius’s death. This
mutual inclusion of close relatives underscores the Antony compares Lepidus to an ass (donkey) that
unforgiving nature of the proscriptions. carries treasure. Once he has served his purpose,
they will relieve him of his load, revealing Antony’s
4. What do Antony and Octavius want Lepidus to dismissive attitude.
fetch from Caesar’s house?
(a) Money collected from taxes 8. Which of the following best sums up Octavius’s
(b) The will immediate reaction to Antony’s criticism of
(c) Important letters Lepidus?
(d) Caesar’s sword (a) He agrees Lepidus is useless
(b) He praises Lepidus as a valiant soldier
Ans (c) He laughs at Antony’s remarks
(b) The will (d) He remains silent and leaves
Antony plans to retrieve Caesar’s will to reduce Ans
the legacies promised to the people. They want to
(b) He praises Lepidus as a valiant soldier
lessen expenses, showing their desire to manipulate
Caesar’s final bequests for personal gain. Octavius defends Lepidus by calling him a “tried
and valiant soldier,” indicating Octavius believes
5. Where do Antony and Octavius propose Lepidus Lepidus has proven himself. This highlights a
may find them later? slight difference in how Antony and Octavius
(a) Outside the city gates view Lepidus.
(b) In the Senate House
(c) By the Capitol or elsewhere 9. What does Antony liken Lepidus to, besides the
(d) At their army camp donkey metaphor, in describing his usefulness?
(a) A mindless follower
Ans (b) A child in need of guidance
(c) By the Capitol or elsewhere (c) A mechanical puppet
Octavius says Lepidus can find them “here, or at (d) His horse, trained to fight
the Capitol.” This flexibility highlights the hectic Ans
political environment, as they constantly move to
(d) His horse, trained to fight
manage affairs of state.

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

Antony clearly states that Lepidus’s purpose is (c) beast of burden

only to carry their burdens. Once he finishes the (d) skilled negotiator
task, they will drop him, emphasizing Antony’s
Ans
view of Lepidus as expendable.
(c) beast of burden
25. What do Antony and Octavius do at the very end
Antony compares Lepidus to a donkey carrying
of the scene?
treasure. Once Lepidus fulfills his role, Antony
(a) They celebrate their victory
plans to discard him, indicating Lepidus is merely
(b) They sit down to eat and rest
a tool for their political agenda.
(c) They exit to hold a strategic council
(d) They continue to argue about Lepidus 29. “But he’s a tried and valiant soldier.”
Ans Octavius’s line shows that he _____.
(a) distrusts Lepidus entirely
(c) They exit to hold a strategic council (b) sees Lepidus’s proven worth in battle
The scene concludes with them deciding to meet (c) wants to remove Lepidus from power
in council to plan against Brutus and Cassius. (d) believes Lepidus is Antony’s equal
This signals their readiness to tackle both covert
Ans
and open threats with a united front.
(b) sees Lepidus’s proven worth in battle
26. “He shall not live; look, with a spot I damn him.”
Octavius defends Lepidus, reminding Antony that
These words show that Antony is _____.
Lepidus has fought bravely. This subtle difference
(a) remorseful
in opinion highlights a slight tension between
(b) callous
Octavius and Antony over Lepidus’s value.
(c) hesitant
(d) frightened 30. “Brutus and Cassius are levying powers.
Ans We must straight make head …
And let us presently go sit in council.”
(b) callous Antony suggests they must _____.
Antony casually marks someone for death, (a) retreat to Rome
saying “with a spot I damn him.” He displays no (b) ignore any potential threats
hesitation, demonstrating his ruthless disposition (c) unite and plan their strategy
toward potential threats. (d) let Lepidus fight alone
Ans
27. “Upon condition Publius shall not live,
Who is your sister’s son, Mark Antony.” (c) unite and plan their strategy
In these lines, Lepidus demands that _____. Antony declares they must prepare to counter
(a) his relative be set free Brutus and Cassius, urging that they strengthen
(b) Brutus must die at once alliances (“our best friends made”) and discuss
(c) Antony’s nephew must be killed secret matters in a council to face impending
(d) Octavius remain neutral dangers.
Ans 31. When Octavius says, “Your brother too must
(c) Antony’s nephew must be killed die. Consent you, Lepidus?” he seeks Lepidus’s
Lepidus agrees to execute his own brother on the _____.
condition that Antony’s nephew, Publius, is also (a) pardon
put to death. This underscores their readiness to (b) defiance
eliminate even familial ties to solidify power. (c) consent
(d) blessing
28. “He shall but bear them as the ass bears gold … Ans
Then take we down his load.” (c) consent
Here, Antony describes Lepidus as a(n) _____.
(a) equal partner Octavius demands Lepidus’s approval for killing
(b) strong politician Lepidus’s own brother. This ruthless request

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(b) Antony 21. What does Octavius suspect about some who
(c) Octavius appear friendly?
(d) Brutus (a) They plan to overthrow Lepidus instead
(b) They have hidden loyalties to Caesar
Ans
(c) They are preparing to unite with Brutus
(c) Octavius (d) They harbor “millions of mischiefs” in their
Octavius voices a mild rebuke of Antony’s harsh hearts
opinion of Lepidus. Although he concedes Antony Ans
may do as he wishes, Octavius still recognizes
Lepidus’s proven worth in battle. (d) They harbor “millions of mischiefs” in their
hearts
18. Which phrase does Antony use to describe Octavius fears that some who smile at them might
Lepidus’s habit of following outdated trends and be secretly plotting their downfall. This suspicion
ideas? highlights the dangerous undercurrent of betrayal
(a) “He is a noble hero.” in Rome’s political climate.
(b) “Begin his fashion.”
(c) “A savage mind.” 22. Which theme is highlighted by the leaders’
(d) “Swift as a hawk.” willingness to eliminate their own family members?
(a) The power of friendship
Ans
(b) Fear of supernatural events
(b) “Begin his fashion.” (c) Ruthlessness of political ambition
Antony criticizes Lepidus for adopting “objects, (d) Regret over hasty decisions
arts, and imitations… staled by other men.” He Ans
mocks Lepidus for being behind the times, only
beginning a fashion already out of use. (c) Ruthlessness of political ambition
By condemning even close relatives, the triumvirs
19. How does Antony propose that they prepare for demonstrate how political power can override
Brutus and Cassius? familial bonds. This reveals the brutal lengths
(a) Go separate ways and divide forces they will go to maintain control.
(b) Immediately attack without discussion
(c) Hold a council to plan thoroughly 23. How does Antony plan to handle Caesar’s will
(d) Surrender to avoid bloodshed once Lepidus brings it?
(a) Increase the legacies to the public
Ans
(b) Eliminate any references to Lepidus
(c) Hold a council to plan thoroughly (c) Forge Caesar’s signature
Antony advocates for careful planning before (d) Reduce the expenses in the legacies
acting against Brutus and Cassius. He understands Ans
that a thoughtful strategy and clear coordination
will help them tackle the rebels more effectively. (d) Reduce the expenses in the legacies
Antony explicitly says they must “determine how
20. What imagery does Octavius use to describe their to cut off some charge in legacies,” meaning they
precarious position? will reduce the promised sums. This shows their
(a) Standing alone in the desert desire to profit from Caesar’s inheritance.
(b) Chained to a rock in the sun
(c) Tied to a stake with enemies all around 24. What does Antony imply when he says “And
(d) Floating on a raft in stormy seas having brought our treasure where we will… then
take we down his load and turn him off”?
Ans
(a) Lepidus will be promoted
(c) Tied to a stake with enemies all around (b) Lepidus will be rewarded with gold
Octavius says “we are at the stake, And bayed (c) Lepidus will be dismissed after they use him
about with many enemies.” This image of being (d) Lepidus will join Brutus and Cassius
tied and surrounded captures how cornered and Ans
threatened the triumvirs feel.
(c) Lepidus will be dismissed after they use him

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

50. How does Lucilius describe Cassius’s greeting to This graphic image emphasizes how such people
him recently? fail or “sink in the trial” under strain.
(a) Friendly and warm as always
(b) Overtly hostile and aggressive 54. Where do Lucilius and Brutus indicate Cassius’s
(c) Neutral, without offering any greeting army plans to stay for the night?
(d) Courteous but less familiar than before (a) Near the Capitol
(b) Outside Rome’s gates
Ans (c) In Sardis
(d) Courteous but less familiar than before (d) By the river Tiber
Lucilius notes that Cassius was respectful yet Ans
distant. This suggests a cooling of friendship, (c) In Sardis
as they no longer share the warmth or “friendly
conference” they once had. Lucilius explains that Cassius’s forces intend to
quarter in Sardis. This location sets the scene
51. What concept does Brutus use to describe for Brutus and Cassius’s encounter, hinting at a
Cassius’s apparent change of heart? crucial confrontation to come.
(a) “A hot friend cooling”
(b) “A forgotten ally rising” 55. When Cassius arrives, what does he immediately
(c) “An idle soldier dreaming” accuse Brutus of?
(d) “A star fading at dawn” (a) Stealing his portion of the spoils
(b) Breaking a promise to march
Ans (c) Speaking ill of him to Octavius
(a) “A hot friend cooling” (d) Having done him wrong
Brutus warns that when affection wanes, it shifts Ans
into mere formality. This phrase captures Cassius’s (d) Having done him wrong
transition from close companion to someone who
behaves distantly and with forced politeness. Cassius opens their exchange by claiming Brutus
has wronged him. This underscores their brewing
52. According to Brutus, what do “hollow men” do conflict and reveals Cassius’s frustration that
when first showing their loyalty? their partnership might be unraveling.
(a) They remain passive and silent
(b) They make a gallant show and promise 56. What is Brutus’s response to Cassius’s charge
(c) They keep secrets from everyone that he has “done me wrong”?
(d) They immediately betray their cause (a) Brutus pleads guilty
(b) Brutus calls for soldiers to detain Cassius
Ans (c) Brutus denies any wrongdoing
(b) They make a gallant show and promise (d) Brutus demands immediate trial
Brutus compares insincere men to horses that Ans
appear spirited at the start. However, they fail (c) Brutus denies any wrongdoing
under real pressure, revealing that hollow men
often put on a strong facade initially. Brutus exclaims, “Judge me, you gods!” insisting
he only wrongs his enemies, not his friends. He
53. Which simile does Brutus use to describe how challenges the accusation and highlights his moral
deceitful men respond under pressure? stance of fairness toward allies.
(a) They roar like lions
(b) They fly away like startled birds 57. How does Cassius describe Brutus’s “sober form”?
(c) They sink like jades under the spur (a) An endearing, wise trait
(d) They stand firm like ancient trees (b) A mask that hides wrongdoing
Ans (c) A sign of deep sadness
(d) A deception learned from Caesar
(c) They sink like jades under the spur
Ans
Brutus likens false friends to tired horses
(“deceitful jades”) that collapse when pushed. (b) A mask that hides wrongdoing

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 71

exposes the stark priorities of the triumvirs— (c) power

family ties are readily sacrificed to eliminate (d) status
perceived threats.
Ans
32. When Antony declares, “He shall not live; look, (d) status
with a spot I damn him,” he ensures Publius’s
Comparing Lepidus to a mere beast he can train,
_____.
Antony denies him genuine standing. This stark
(a) exile
analogy reveals Antony’s view that Lepidus lacks
(b) downfall
autonomy and leadership authority.
(c) safety
(d) redemption 36. Identify the correct order in which Publius’s fate
Ans is decided.
1. Octavius insists Lepidus’s brother must die.
(b) downfall 2. Lepidus agrees to sacrifice his own brother.
Antony marks Publius, his own nephew, for 3. Lepidus demands Antony’s nephew, Publius,
execution, sealing his fate with chilling finality. be killed.
This harsh pronouncement exemplifies the 4. Antony confirms Publius’s execution.
merciless proscriptions the triumvirs impose to (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
secure their dominance. (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(c) 2, 1, 4, 3
33. When Antony calls Lepidus “a slight, unmeritable (d) 3, 4, 1, 2
man,” he confines Lepidus to minor _____.
(a) errands Ans
(b) glories (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(c) battles
First, Octavius targets Lepidus’s brother. Lepidus
(d) intrigues
assents, then demands Publius die too. Antony
Ans finally seals Publius’s doom by “marking” his
(a) errands name, indicating the ruthless culling of their
political threats.
Antony reduces Lepidus to a messenger role,
highlighting his contempt. By labeling Lepidus
as “slight” and “unmeritable,” Antony reveals his
plan to use and then discard him for convenience.
37. Determine the sequence in which Lepidus is
34. When Octavius asserts, “But he’s a tried and
instructed to retrieve Caesar’s will.
valiant soldier,” he underscores Lepidus’s
1. Antony tells Lepidus to collect the will from
_____.
Caesar’s house.
(a) greed
2. Lepidus asks Antony and Octavius where to
(b) valor
rejoin them.
(c) envy
3. Lepidus departs.
(d) folly
4. Antony and Octavius plan their next move.
Ans (a) 1, 3, 4, 2
(b) valor (b) 2, 1, 3, 4
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
Octavius defends Lepidus, emphasizing his proven (d) 2, 3, 1, 4
courage. This admiration stands in contrast
to Antony’s disparaging view, foreshadowing Ans
internal discord as the triumvirs debate Lepidus’s (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
true worth.
Antony’s order comes first, Lepidus clarifies his
35. When Antony likens Lepidus to “my horse,” he meeting place, then exits. Antony and Octavius
questions Lepidus’s _____ as an equal partner. remain to discuss altering the legacy expenses and
(a) logic forging strategies against their mutual foes.
(b) birth

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Antony compares Lepidus to his horse, describing Ans

how he teaches it to fight and obey commands. (b) Covert
This shows Antony sees Lepidus as a creature
Antony wants to plan how “covert matters may be
needing direction and control.
best disclosed.” This means they need a private
10. Why does Antony call Lepidus “a barren-spirited strategy to handle secret or delicate affairs that
fellow”? could weaken their position if revealed.
(a) He has no heirs
14. What does Antony wish to ensure regarding
(b) He lacks creativity and original thought
“open perils”?
(c) He challenges Antony’s authority
(a) That they are ignored
(d) He always refuses new tasks
(b) That they are handled publicly
Ans (c) That they are answered most securely
(b) He lacks creativity and original thought (d) That they are dismissed as rumors

Antony believes Lepidus merely imitates what Ans

others have already done. The phrase “barren- (c) That they are answered most securely
spirited” suggests he has no true initiative,
Antony stresses the importance of safely
reinforcing Antony’s dismissive view of Lepidus’s
addressing open threats. By doing so, they can
abilities.
maintain control and stability, ensuring their
11. Which two conspirators does Antony mention are power is not undermined by enemies gathering
raising armies against them? strength.
(a) Brutus and Cassius
15. In Antony’s view, how should Lepidus be treated
(b) Casca and Cinna
after he carries out the difficult tasks?
(c) Trebonius and Ligarius
(a) Honored as an equal
(d) Lucilius and Lucius
(b) Discreetly imprisoned
Ans (c) Replaced by Publius
(a) Brutus and Cassius (d) Dismissed and set aside

Antony notes that Brutus and Cassius are “levying Ans

powers,” meaning they are gathering forces. Their (d) Dismissed and set aside
rebellion poses a major threat, prompting Antony
Antony plans to use Lepidus until he is no longer
and Octavius to consolidate their own strength.
necessary, then cast him off. This shows Antony’s
12. What does Antony suggest the triumvirate do manipulative nature and his willingness to discard
about their allies and resources? a colleague after exploiting him.
(a) Dismiss them to reduce expenses
16. Which phrase best captures Antony’s attitude
(b) Strengthen alliances and stretch resources
toward Lepidus?
(c) Keep only the soldiers and leave others
(a) Loyal companion
(d) Hide their funds and ban all allies
(b) Beloved mentor
Ans (c) Useful instrument
(b) Strengthen alliances and stretch resources (d) Dangerous rival

Antony insists they must combine their alliances Ans

and “stretch” their means to confront Brutus and (c) Useful instrument
Cassius. This unites the triumvirate in a shared
Antony repeatedly calls Lepidus a mere “property,”
strategy against the growing opposition.
like a horse or a donkey. This language clearly
13. Which word describes the type of matters Antony shows Antony treats Lepidus as an instrument to
wants to discuss in council? serve their political and military ends.
(a) Glorious
17. Who says the line “You may do your will, But
(b) Covert
he’s a tried and valiant soldier”?
(c) Trivial
(a) Lepidus
(d) Hopeless

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(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (c) Antony and Octavius
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. (d) Lucilius and Caesar
Ans Ans
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. (a) Titinius and Pindarus
Octavius’s admiration for Lepidus contrasts with The scene opens with Brutus, Lucilius, and
Antony’s disparagement, and neither opinion their army, then Titinius and Pindarus arrive.
springs from the other. They simply reflect two This signals communication between Brutus and
opposing views on Lepidus’s ability and rank. Cassius, as Pindarus comes with a greeting from
Cassius.
44. Select the option that shows the correct
relationship between statements (1) and (2). 47. What does Brutus first ask Lucilius regarding
Statement (1) : Antony sneers at Lepidus as Cassius?
“slight” and unfit to share power. (a) Whether Cassius is nearby
Statement (2) : Lepidus still belongs to the (b) Whether Cassius has gone to Rome
triumvirate, overseeing Rome with Antony and (c) Whether Cassius is ill
Octavius. (d) Whether Cassius is planning to attack
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Ans
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (a) Whether Cassius is nearby
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. Brutus’s first concern is Cassius’s whereabouts,
Ans showing he expects an imminent meeting. Lucilius
confirms Cassius is “at hand,” indicating they will
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. soon confront any tension between them.
Antony’s personal disdain does not annul
Lepidus’s formal role as a ruler. The scorn in (1) 48. When Brutus refers to “things done undone,”
does not influence Lepidus’s official position in what is he expressing?
(2), so they remain unrelated. (a) Satisfaction with Cassius’s actions
(b) Regret over past deeds
45. Select the option that shows the correct (c) Joy about future plans
relationship between statements (1) and (2). (d) Indifference to Cassius’s choices
Statement (1) : Brutus and Cassius assemble
armies, posing a grave threat. Ans
Statement (2) : Antony urges a council to resolve (b) Regret over past deeds
hidden and open dangers.
Brutus says he wishes certain deeds could
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
be undone. This suggests there has been a
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
misunderstanding or wrong committed by Cassius
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
that Brutus wants clarified or reversed.
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Ans 49. What does Pindarus predict about Cassius’s
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). behavior toward Brutus?
(a) That Cassius will betray Brutus immediately
Brutus and Cassius’s troop buildup sparks alarm,
(b) That Cassius will be insulting and cruel
prompting Antony to call for immediate planning.
(c) That Cassius will show respect and honor
Hence, the threat in (1) leads directly to the
(d) That Cassius will refuse to meet
strategizing proposed in (2).
Ans

SCENE 2 (c) That Cassius will show respect and honor

Pindarus assures Brutus that Cassius remains
46. Who meets Brutus and his army at the beginning noble. He states his master will appear with
of the scene? “regard and honor,” showing Pindarus’s trust in
(a) Titinius and Pindarus Cassius’s loyalty and good intentions.
(b) Cassius and Lucius

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38. Pick the correct progression of Antony’s Ans

disparagement of Lepidus. (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
1. Antony derides Lepidus as “slight” and
They begin by discussing ways to “cut off some
“unmeritable.”
charge” in Caesar’s will, then send Lepidus away.
2. Antony calls Lepidus an ass that carries gold.
Antony raises the growing menace of Brutus and
3. Antony likens Lepidus to his horse.
Cassius, and both exit to strategize.
4. He claims Lepidus must be “trained” like an
animal. 41. Select the option that shows the correct
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3 Statement (1) : Having agreed that Octavius’s
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 brother must die, Lepidus demands Antony’s
(d) 1, 3, 2, 4 nephew, Publius, also face execution.
Ans Statement (2) : Antony marks Publius’s name for
immediate inclusion on their death list.
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Antony escalates his insults first calling Lepidus (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
“slight,” then comparing him to an ass, next (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
likening him to a horse, and concluding that (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Lepidus is merely an obedient figurehead.
Ans
39. Identify how Antony and Octavius discuss (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Lepidus’s position before shifting focus to Brutus
Because Lepidus consents to sacrificing his
and Cassius.
brother, he expects Antony to lose someone
1. Antony dismisses Lepidus as an errand-boy.
too—namely Publius. Thus, (1) directly prompts
2. Octavius defends Lepidus as a proven soldier.
Antony to “spot” Publius for death in (2).
3. Antony insists Lepidus is still a mere tool.
4. They pivot to the threat posed by Brutus and 42. Select the option that shows the correct
Cassius. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4 Statement (1) : Antony instructs Lepidus to fetch
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 Caesar’s will and reduce certain legacies.
(c) 1, 3, 4, 2 Statement (2) : Antony also “spots” Publius for
(d) 3, 2, 1, 4 execution to remove a perceived threat.
Ans (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Antony first belittles Lepidus’s role, Octavius (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
counters by praising Lepidus’s valor, but Antony
Ans
remains unmoved, deeming Lepidus a tool. The
two then refocus on confronting Brutus and (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Cassius. Adjusting Caesar’s will is a financial move,
40. Select the correct sequence of events leading to while condemning Publius deals with eliminating
the duo’s exit and further plotting. enemies. These motives aren’t linked; one targets
1. Antony and Octavius discuss reducing money, the other targets a person.
Caesar’s legacies.
43. Select the option that shows the correct
2. Lepidus departs to perform his task.
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
3. Antony introduces the looming threat of
Statement (1) : Octavius calls Lepidus “a tried
Brutus and Cassius.
and valiant soldier” worthy of respect.
4. Antony and Octavius exit to plan how best to
Statement (2) : Antony devalues Lepidus,
address looming dangers.
comparing him to a mere beast that must be
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4
directed and trained.
(b) 2, 3, 4, 1
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(d) 1, 3, 2, 4

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Cassius claims Brutus uses his serious demeanor (c) Lucius

to veil his faults. This suggests Cassius believes (d) Lucilius
there is more behind Brutus’s calm exterior than
Ans
meets the eye.
(b) Pindarus
58. What does Brutus insist they must do before
Cassius turns to Pindarus and orders him to have
their armies?
the commanders withdraw. Removing the armies
(a) Solve their quarrel publicly
creates space for a private discussion, allowing the
(b) Show unity and avoid open strife
two leaders to settle their dispute.
(c) Challenge each other to a duel
(d) Declare who is in charge 62. What does Brutus ask Lucius to do, mirroring
Ans Cassius’s own instruction?
(a) Attack Cassius’s men in the confusion
(b) Show unity and avoid open strife (b) Gather the soldiers closer for a meeting
Brutus insists that the assembled soldiers should (c) Move their troops off the ground as well
see “nothing but love” between their leaders. He (d) Sound a retreat and march for Rome
doesn’t want a public argument, which could
Ans
damage morale and unity in their ranks.
(c) Move their troops off the ground as well
59. Where does Brutus suggest Cassius fully voice his
Brutus echoes Cassius’s plan by telling Lucius to
grievances?
lead away his forces. By mirroring Cassius’s move,
(a) In the public forum
both sides clear the field, preventing further
(b) At Caesar’s tomb
confrontation in front of the soldiers.
(c) In his tent, privately
(d) On the battlefield 63. Which two characters does Brutus position to
Ans guard the tent door?
(a) Pindarus and Lucius
(c) In his tent, privately (b) Titinius and Lucilius
Brutus wants Cassius to “enlarge your griefs” (c) Cassius and Lucius
away from the troops. He believes a private (d) Brutus and Antony
setting is safer for their alliance, ensuring they
Ans
can address problems without sowing division.
(b) Titinius and Lucilius
60. Why does Brutus want to keep their disagreement
Brutus specifically instructs “Let Lucilius and
hidden from the soldiers?
Titinius guard our door.” This measure ensures
(a) He fears being overthrown
no interruptions during the private conference,
(b) He wants to maintain the illusion of perfect
emphasizing the confidentiality of their discussion.
harmony
(c) He thinks Cassius should apologize publicly 64. How does the dialogue between Cassius and
instead Brutus reflect their relationship?
(d) He believes it will strengthen the enemy (a) It shows an unbreakable friendship with no
Ans tension
(b) It reveals growing mistrust and disagreements
(b) He wants to maintain the illusion of perfect (c) It confirms they plan to betray each other
harmony secretly
Brutus stresses that soldiers must see unity (d) It proves Cassius already joined enemy forces
among leaders. Their perceived harmony keeps
Ans
morale high and prevents any sense of weakness
in the ranks that enemies might exploit. (b) It reveals growing mistrust and disagreements
Cassius accuses Brutus of wrongdoing, while
61. Who does Cassius instruct to move the troops
Brutus denies it. Their heated words hint at
away from the immediate area?
lingering resentments, suggesting the unity they
(a) Titinius
once shared has started to deteriorate.
(b) Pindarus

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Lucilius detects formality replacing genuine 82. Determine the correct order of how the armies
warmth in Cassius’s demeanor. This subtle change approach and meet.
foreshadows the rift between Cassius and Brutus, 1. Lucilius states Cassius’s troops will camp
illustrating how suspicion can quickly undermine near Sardis.
camaraderie. 2. Cassius’s forces arrive on stage.
3. Brutus hears Cassius’s arrival.
79. Brutus warns, “hollow men, like horses hot at 4. Brutus orders a gentle march to meet Cassius.
hand … fall their _____, and like deceitful (a) 2, 3, 1, 4
jades, sink in the trial.” (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(a) swords (c) 1, 3, 4, 2
(b) shields (d) 1, 4, 2, 3
(c) crests
(d) ranks Ans

Ans (b) 1, 2, 3, 4

(c) crests Lucilius points out Cassius’s plan to quarter

near Sardis, then Cassius enters. Brutus realizes
comparing unreliable friends to spirited horses Cassius is on-site, commanding a controlled
that fail under pressure, Brutus illustrates how approach to avoid alarming both armies.
false allies lose their pride in adversity—exposing
their weakness when truly tested. 83. Choose the option that shows the right sequence
leading to Brutus and Cassius’s private conference.
80. Before any public dispute, Brutus tells Cassius, 1. Cassius accuses Brutus of doing him wrong.
“Let us not wrangle” before our _____. 2. Brutus insists they not quarrel before their
(a) enemies armies.
(b) followers 3. Both generals command their forces to
(c) gate withdraw.
(d) judge 4. They agree to speak further in Brutus’s tent.
Ans (a) 3, 2, 1, 4
(b) followers (b) 2, 4, 3, 1
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
Brutus insists they settle differences privately to
(d) 1, 3, 2, 4
maintain unity’s appearance. By shielding their
argument from the troops, he prioritizes morale Ans
and the semblance of leadership harmony. (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
81. Identify the correct progression of Lucilius’s First, Cassius lodges his grievance. Brutus urges
report on Cassius’s changing demeanor. calm to hide discord from the troops. Next, both
1. Brutus asks how Cassius received Lucilius. leaders instruct their armies to step back before
2. Lucilius describes Cassius’s reduced warmth. agreeing to settle matters privately.
3. Brutus calls Cassius “a hot friend cooling.”
84. Pick the correct ordering of Brutus’s lines about
4. Brutus observes “enforced ceremony” as
friendships fade. his relationship with Cassius.
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 1. Brutus calls Cassius “brother.”
(b) 2, 1, 4, 3 2. Brutus questions how he could harm a loved
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 one.
(d) 3, 2, 4, 1 3. Brutus addresses the gods to judge him fairly.
4. Brutus says he never wrongs allies, only
Ans enemies.
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) 3, 4, 1, 2
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4
First, Brutus inquires about Cassius’s reception.
(c) 3, 2, 4, 1
Lucilius notes the lukewarm greeting. Brutus
(d) 4, 3, 2, 1
labels this “a hot friend cooling,” adding that
dwindling friendships often mask true feelings Ans
with forced manners. (a) 3, 4, 1, 2

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72. “With courtesy and with respect enough, (a) their soldiers should see only unity
But not with such familiar instances … as he hath (b) it would weaken Cassius’s reputation
used of old.” (c) he doubts Cassius’s battle plan
According to Lucilius, Cassius’s manner toward (d) Octavius is already attacking
him is now _____.
Ans
(a) hostile and rude
(b) distant but polite (a) their soldiers should see only unity
(c) enthusiastic and warm Brutus fears any visible discord between
(d) fearful and panicked commanders would undermine troop morale. He
Ans prefers addressing Cassius’s complaints privately,
preserving the image of unity in front of their
(b) distant but polite armies.
Lucilius notes that Cassius still behaves
courteously but lacks the warmth and closeness 76. When Brutus notices a change in Cassius’s
they once shared. This change hints at growing warmth, he calls him “a hot friend _____.”
friction or suspicion between Cassius and Brutus’s (a) fading
circle. (b) cooling
(c) growing
73. “A hot friend cooling … (d) raging
When love begins to sicken and decay
Ans
It useth an enforced ceremony.”
Brutus compares Cassius to _____. (b) cooling
(a) an unwavering ally Brutus observes that Cassius, once a close ally,
(b) a cold, unfeeling stranger has grown distant. This highlights the strain in
(c) a friend whose loyalty is diminishing their bond, warning us how political pressures can
(d) a foe that never cared erode even the strongest friendships.
Ans
77. Brutus says, “Judge me, you gods! Wrong I mine
(c) a friend whose loyalty is diminishing enemies? And if not so, how should I wrong a
Brutus calls Cassius “a hot friend cooling,” _____?”
implying Cassius once showed genuine closeness (a) brother
but now seems reserved. He views forced (b) stranger
politeness (“enforced ceremony”) as a sign of (c) horse
waning friendship. (d) foe
Ans
74. “Judge me, you gods! Wrong I mine enemies?
And if not so, how should I wrong a brother?” (a) brother
Brutus’s words here show he _____. calling Cassius “brother,” Brutus underlines his
(a) denies having done Cassius any harm loyalty and honor. He cannot fathom betraying an
(b) plans to kill Cassius ally, stressing that his conscience would not allow
(c) confesses to betraying Cassius him to harm a friend.
(d) demands proof of Cassius’s wrongdoing
78. According to Lucilius, Cassius did not greet him
Ans
with the same “free and friendly _____” as
(a) denies having done Cassius any harm before.
Brutus appeals to the gods, insisting he only (a) duties
harms enemies, not friends. He cannot imagine (b) manner
how Cassius could think him guilty of any offense. (c) conference
(d) counsel
75. “Let us not wrangle …
Ans
Then in my tent, Cassius, enlarge your griefs.”
Brutus wants to avoid quarreling before their (c) conference
armies because _____.

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

90. Select the option that shows the correct (c) He agrees to repay the bribes
relationship between statements (1) and (2). (d) He begs Brutus for forgiveness
Statement (1) : Brutus positions Lucilius and
Ans
Titinius to guard the tent door, ensuring no
intrusions. (b) He threatens Brutus
Statement (2) : He and Cassius aim to settle their Cassius warns that if Brutus were anyone else, that
dispute quietly, preserving a united front to their speech would be his last. This heated response
armies. reveals Cassius’s hurt pride and escalating anger
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. toward his friend.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). 94. Which historical event does Brutus remind Cassius
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. of to highlight their fight against injustice?
(a) The Fall of Rome
Ans
(b) Caesar’s assassination on the Ides of March
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (c) Pompey’s defeat
Stationing guards prevents eavesdropping, (d) Antony’s betrayal
enabling Brutus and Cassius to reconcile in Ans
secret. This private space (1) directly facilitates
(b) Caesar’s assassination on the Ides of March
their intent to keep appearances stable (2).
Scene 3 Brutus recalls they stabbed Caesar “for justice’
sake” and warns they must not now become what
91. Why does Cassius say Brutus has “wronged” him they opposed. This contrasts their original noble
at the start of the scene? cause with Cassius’s suspected corruption.
(a) Brutus refused to fight at Sardis
(b) Brutus condemned Lucius Pella for bribes 95. Which insult does Brutus hurl at Cassius when he
(c) Brutus seized Cassius’s tent says, “Away, slight man!”?
(d) Brutus allied with Antony (a) He calls Cassius a coward
Ans (b) He calls him a fool
(c) He calls him “slight,” implying insignificance
(b) Brutus condemned Lucius Pella for bribes
(d) He calls him a liar
Cassius complains that Brutus ignored his letters
Ans
defending Lucius Pella. Cassius believes Brutus
slighted him by punishing Pella despite Cassius’s (c) He calls him “slight,” implying insignificance
plea, sparking the argument between them. Brutus dismisses Cassius as a “slight man,”
belittling his standing. The tension peaks as
92. Which phrase does Brutus use to accuse Cassius
Brutus refuses to be intimidated, exposing the
of greed?
depth of their fractured relationship.
(a) “Selling men to undeservers”
(b) “A heart shaped in gold” 96. What is Cassius’s emotional state when he
(c) “Itching palm” exclaims, “O you gods, you gods, must I endure
(d) “Offended soldier” all this?”
Ans (a) Triumph and satisfaction
(b) Despair and outrage
(c) “Itching palm”
(c) Amusement and irony
Brutus rebukes Cassius for supposedly taking (d) Calm acceptance
bribes and selling offices. This “itching palm” Ans
reference intensifies the conflict, as it accuses
Cassius of corrupt motives. (b) Despair and outrage
Feeling cornered and insulted, Cassius cries out to
93. How does Cassius initially react to Brutus’s the gods. This line underscores the depth of his
charge of corruption? frustration, having been publicly reprimanded by
(a) He acknowledges his faults someone he once considered a brother.
(b) He threatens Brutus

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Brutus first appeals to the gods, insisting he (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
wrongs only foes. He addresses Cassius as (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
“brother” and finally questions why he would (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
ever harm someone he deems so close. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.

85. Select the correct sequence of the final preparations Ans

for the private talk. (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
1. Cassius instructs Pindarus to lead
Brutus’s wish to keep their quarrel hidden
commanders away.
motivates Cassius to withdraw their soldiers.
2. Brutus requests Lucius do likewise with their
Hence, Brutus’s request (1) leads Cassius to
own men.
remove the troops for a private confrontation (2).
3. Brutus insists no one enter the tent.
4. They exit, leaving Brutus and Cassius alone. 88. Select the option that shows the correct
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3 relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 Statement (1) : Pindarus greets Brutus,
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 announcing Cassius will appear “full of regard
(d) 2, 3, 1, 4 and honor.”
Ans Statement (2) : Moments later, Cassius arrives,
calls Brutus “most noble brother,” then accuses
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 him of wrongdoing.
Cassius tells Pindarus to move his troops back, (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
and Brutus orders Lucius to do the same. Brutus (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
then bars anyone from entering their tent, allowing (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
the two generals to confer alone. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.

86. Select the option that shows the correct Ans

relationship between statements (1) and (2). (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Statement (1) : Brutus believes Cassius’s once-
Although Pindarus assures Brutus of Cassius’s
warm affection has cooled, noting “a hot friend
honorable disposition, Cassius’s courteous
cooling.”
greeting swiftly gives way to complaint. One
Statement (2) : Cassius appears with his troops,
doesn’t necessarily trigger the other; they coexist
instantly accusing Brutus of having “done me
separately.
wrong.”
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. 89. Select the option that shows the correct
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Ans
Statement (1) : Brutus exclaims “Judge me, you
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). gods!” to show he never harms friends.
Brutus senses Cassius’s fading warmth, which Statement (2) : He insists on discussing Cassius’s
foreshadows Cassius’s grievance. Because grievances privately, outside their troops’ hearing.
Cassius’s friendship has cooled (1), he confronts (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Brutus upon arrival, declaring he’s been wronged (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(2). (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
87. Select the option that shows the correct
Ans
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Statement (1) : Brutus urges Cassius to “speak (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
your griefs softly,” avoiding open conflict in front Brutus’s cry to be judged by the gods is his moral
of their armies. defense, whereas conducting a private talk is his
Statement (2) : Cassius commands Pindarus to tactical choice. These statements address different
lead the troops away, securing privacy for their concerns and are unrelated.
dispute.

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119. “Thy evil spirit, Brutus … To tell thee thou shalt calling Cassius’s palm “itching,” Brutus implies
see me at Philippi.” he’s greedy for bribes. Their heated argument
The Ghost’s words imply that _____. highlights a moral divide between Brutus’s
(a) Brutus should flee the city incorruptible ideals and Cassius’s willingness to
(b) Brutus’s guilt or fate haunts him indulge misdeeds.
(c) Cassius is secretly conspiring
(d) Octavius will save Brutus in battle 123. Offering his dagger, Cassius dares Brutus, “If
that thou be’st a Roman, take it forth” from his
Ans _____.
(b) Brutus’s guilt or fate haunts him (a) belt
(b) heart
Calling itself Brutus’s “evil spirit,” the Ghost
(c) chest
references his impending doom at Philippi. The
(d) scabbard
apparition symbolizes either Brutus’s conscience
or a supernatural omen presaging his downfall. Ans

120. “He thinks he still is at his instrument. (b) heart

Lucius, awake!” Cassius theatrically offers his own heart to Brutus,
When Lucius wakes, he does not recall _____. dramatizing his hurt and remorse. This extreme
(a) playing music for Brutus gesture signals his readiness to die rather than
(b) calling out in his sleep continue under Brutus’s harsh condemnation.
(c) the battle raging outside
(d) the location of Brutus’s book 124. Despite their furious quarrel, Cassius still calls
Brutus “my _____.”
Ans (a) foe
(b) calling out in his sleep (b) brother
(c) rival
Brutus tells Lucius he cried out, but Lucius
(d) cousin
claims no memory of it. This highlights Brutus’s
unsettled state, as even his servant’s unconscious Ans
exclamation adds to the eerie tension of the night. (b) brother
121. Cassius rebukes Brutus for condemning Lucius Even amid anger, Cassius affectionately labels
Pella “For taking _____ here of the Sardians.” Brutus as his “brother,” highlighting their deep
(a) arms bond. The conflict doesn’t break their unity; it
(b) bribes instead showcases the volatility of their close
(c) credit friendship.
(d) gifts
125. Brutus somberly informs Cassius that _____
Ans “is dead,” prompting new grief amidst their
(b) bribes tensions.
(a) Portia
Cassius believes Brutus should have overlooked
(b) Cicero
Pella’s offense. Their disagreement reveals
(c) Lucius
growing friction within the alliance, as Brutus
(d) Messala
upholds strict justice even when it clashes with
Cassius’s leniency. Ans

122. Brutus accuses Cassius of being “much condemned (a) Portia

to have an _____ palm.” Brutus announces Portia’s tragic death,
(a) itching compounding the emotional strain. Despite
(b) open looming battles, this personal loss underscores
(c) sweaty how private tragedy can deeply affect leaders
(d) burning caught in political turmoil.
Ans
(a) itching

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97. How does Brutus propose to respond to Cassius’s Ans

anger, according to his speech about using Cassius (c) He refuses and tells Cassius to sheath it
for “mirth” and “laughter”?
Brutus calms the situation by rejecting violence.
(a) He decides to yield and apologize
He insists Cassius put the dagger away, marking
(b) He plans to drive Cassius from the camp
the start of their reconciliation after the heated
(c) He chooses to mock Cassius rather than fear
quarrel.
him
(d) He orders soldiers to imprison Cassius 101. Why does Cassius mention his “rash humor which
Ans my mother gave me”?
(a) To justify his sudden bursts of anger
(c) He chooses to mock Cassius rather than fear (b) To claim he is cursed by the gods
him (c) To mock Brutus’s family heritage
Brutus declares he won’t cower but will make (d) To excuse himself from further battles
light of Cassius’s rage. By labeling Cassius’s Ans
fury as “waspish,” Brutus reveals a refusal to be
(a) To justify his sudden bursts of anger
controlled by threats.
Cassius admits his fierce temper is inherited. By
98. When Cassius claims he is an “elder soldier,” how naming his “mother” as the source, he implicitly
does Brutus respond? asks Brutus to understand and forgive the
(a) He praises Cassius’s experience emotional volatility just witnessed.
(b) He says Cassius is lying
(c) He challenges Cassius to a duel 102. Which character interrupts Brutus and Cassius,
(d) He denies that Cassius is superior urging them to be friends?
(a) Lucilius
Ans (b) A Poet
(d) He denies that Cassius is superior (c) Titinius
Brutus contradicts Cassius’s boast of greater (d) Messala
military skill. Their power struggle over who is Ans
the better soldier illustrates mounting tensions
(b) A Poet
and wounded pride on both sides.
A poet bursts in, exclaiming, “Love and be
99. Which of the following statements does Cassius friends.” He tries to shame them for quarreling,
use to dramatize his frustration, offering Brutus a but Brutus and Cassius quickly dismiss him,
chance to kill him? revealing the poet’s comedic, meddling role.
(a) “Here is my heart, strike as thou didst
Caesar.” 103. How does Brutus respond to the Poet’s intrusion?
(b) “Let my blood pay for my crimes.” (a) He thanks the Poet for his wisdom
(c) “I have no wish to see another dawn.” (b) He dismisses the Poet as a “saucy fellow”
(d) “Thrust the sword at me if you dare.” (c) He invites the Poet to write a battle song
(d) He insists the Poet join their dinner
Ans
Ans
(a) “Here is my heart, strike as thou didst Caesar.”
(b) He dismisses the Poet as a “saucy fellow”
Cassius theatrically presents his dagger and chest,
urging Brutus to kill him as he killed Caesar. Brutus’s impatience shows when he calls the
This emotional outburst underscores how deeply Poet “sirrah” and orders him away. The scene’s
Cassius feels betrayed. comedic element contrasts the serious argument
yet highlights Brutus’s no-nonsense attitude.
100. How does Brutus respond to Cassius’s offer of his
dagger? 104. Which tragic news does Brutus reveal to Cassius
(a) He takes the dagger in anger that weighs heavily on his mind?
(b) He calls in the soldiers to witness (a) Their army has deserted
(c) He refuses and tells Cassius to sheath it (b) Lucilius has betrayed them
(d) He ridicules Cassius more (c) Portia, his wife, is dead
(d) Antony has offered a truce

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

character? It reveals the personal toll of Brutus’s

How does this moment reflect Brutus’s state responsibilities, as his decisions weigh heavily
of mind? on him and create moments of quiet reflection
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to and fatigue.
contrast with the tension and urgency of the (v) Brutus’s treatment of the boy reflects his
play’s larger conflicts? ability to balance humanity and leadership,
What earlier moments in the play highlight as he demonstrates kindness and empathy
Brutus’s introspective and reflective nature? despite the immense pressures he faces.
(iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of This moment underscores Brutus’s noble and
exhaustion and vulnerability in leadership? principled nature, highlighting his ability to
What does this reveal about the personal toll maintain his moral values even in the face of
of Brutus’s responsibilities? conflict and uncertainty.
(v) Do you think Brutus’s treatment of the boy
reflects his ability to balance humanity and 33. Read the following extract and answer the
leadership? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to his Brutus:
character and his role in the play. What, thou speak’st drowsily? Poor knave, I
blame thee not; thou art o’erwatched.
Ans Call Claudius and some other of my men;
(i) “This is a sleepy tune” means that the music I’ll have them sleep on cushions in my tent.
played by the boy is soothing and makes one Lucius:
feel drowsy. Varro and Claudius.
“O murd’rous slumber, layest thou thy leaden (i) What does Brutus mean by “Poor knave, I
mace upon my boy” suggests that Brutus blame thee not; thou art o’erwatched”?
feels sympathy for the boy, who has fallen Why does Brutus instruct Lucius to call
asleep while playing, and personifies sleep as Claudius and others?
a force overpowering him. Explain “I’ll have them sleep on cushions in
“I will not do thee so much wrong to wake my tent.”
thee” reflects Brutus’s considerate nature, as (ii) How does Brutus’s concern for Lucius and his
he chooses not to disturb the boy’s rest. men reflect his character?
(ii) Brutus addresses the boy with affection and What does this reveal about his leadership
kindness, calling him “gentle knave” and style?
appreciating his effort to play music despite How does this moment contrast with the high
his exhaustion. stakes of the impending battle?
This reveals Brutus’s compassionate and (iii) How does Shakespeare use this interaction to
empathetic character, showing his capacity humanize Brutus?
to care for others even during moments of What earlier moments in the play highlight
personal and political turmoil. Brutus’s capacity for empathy and care?
This moment reflects Brutus’s weary state of (iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of
mind, as he grapples with the pressures of weariness and the burden of leadership?
leadership and his internal struggles. What does this reveal about the personal toll
(iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to provide a of Brutus’s responsibilities as a leader?
quiet and tender contrast to the play’s larger (v) Do you think Brutus’s care for his men
conflicts, emphasizing Brutus’s humanity enhances his effectiveness as a leader?
amid the chaos of war. Support your answer with reference to his
Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s soliloquy actions and the loyalty of his followers.
in the orchard, highlight his introspective Ans
nature and his tendency to reflect deeply on
his actions and responsibilities. (i) “Poor knave, I blame thee not; thou art
(iv) This extract reflects the theme of exhaustion o’erwatched” means Brutus acknowledges
and vulnerability in leadership, as Brutus’s that Lucius is exhausted and does not fault
compassion for the boy mirrors his own him for being drowsy.
weariness and emotional burden. Brutus instructs Lucius to call Claudius and
other men to ensure they can rest comfortably

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112. What does Brutus ask Lucius to do after everyone Shaken, Brutus calls out to see if anyone else
else departs? witnessed the specter. Varro and Claudius recall
(a) Stand guard all night no such vision, leaving Brutus alone with the
(b) Play music and fetch a book ghost’s eerie warning of Philippi.
(c) Summon the poet again
(d) Hide the gold they possess 116. “Let me see, let me see; is not the leaf turned
down
Ans Where I left reading?”
(b) Play music and fetch a book These lines suggest that Brutus is _____.
(a) hunting for his sword
Brutus, unable to sleep, requests a comforting
(b) browsing old letters
tune and looks for reading material. This reveals
(c) looking for his reading spot
the burden of worry on his mind even after
(d) hiding important documents
reconciling with Cassius.
Ans
113. What supernatural occurrence does Brutus
experience late at night? (c) looking for his reading spot
(a) A thunderstorm that rocks the tent Brutus checks whether the page in his book is
(b) A fiery chariot in the sky turned down, indicating he’s resuming his reading.
(c) The Ghost of Caesar Despite battle stress, his focus on a bookmarked
(d) Lightning striking his sword page shows his reflective, studious nature.
Ans
(c) The Ghost of Caesar 117. “If thou dost nod, thou break’st thy instrument.
I’ll take it from thee, and, good boy, good night.”
In the dim light, Brutus sees Caesar’s apparition,
Here, Brutus demonstrates _____.
which announces Brutus will see it again at
(a) harsh discipline toward Lucius
Philippi. The ghostly encounter heightens the
(b) gentle care for Lucius’s rest
tension, foreshadowing ominous events to come.
(c) total disregard for his servant
114. How does the Ghost of Caesar identify itself to (d) anger at being interrupted
Brutus? Ans
(a) “I am Caesar’s wrath.”
(b) “Thy evil spirit, Brutus.” (b) gentle care for Lucius’s rest
(c) “A shade of your fallen friend.” Brutus notices Lucius is too tired to continue
(d) “I am vengeance incarnate.” playing music. Instead of forcing him to stay
awake, he takes the instrument away so Lucius
Ans
can sleep comfortably.
(b) “Thy evil spirit, Brutus.”
118. “Ha, who comes here?—I think it is the weakness
The Ghost calls itself Brutus’s evil spirit,
of mine eyes
suggesting it embodies guilt or fate. This haunting
That shapes this monstrous apparition.”
message terrifies Brutus, linking Caesar’s death
Brutus initially believes the ghostly figure is
to Brutus’s impending confrontation in battle.
_____.
115. What does Brutus do immediately after the Ghost (a) an assassin sent by Antony
vanishes? (b) a trick of his tired vision
(a) Wakes Lucius, Varro, and Claudius to confirm (c) Caesar’s reincarnated body
what happened (d) Portia returned from the dead
(b) Summons Cassius to protect him Ans
(c) Faints in horror
(b) a trick of his tired vision
(d) Sends a messenger to Antony
Brutus questions whether fatigue causes him to
Ans
imagine the Ghost. He tries to rationalize the
(a) Wakes Lucius, Varro, and Claudius to confirm spectral presence before learning it is “Thy evil
what happened spirit, Brutus.”

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This encounter foreshadows Brutus’s defeat philosophy, which teaches endurance and
at Philippi, as the ghost of Caesar symbolizes reason in the face of hardships.
the inescapable consequences of his betrayal. The philosophy Cassius refers to is Stoicism,
(v) Brutus’s reaction to the apparition is justified, which emphasizes emotional control and
as it reflects his deeply conflicted emotions acceptance of fate.
and the toll of his guilt. (ii) Brutus reveals Portia’s death calmly, stating
His role as the moral center of the conspiracy “Portia is dead,” as a matter of fact, reflecting
makes him particularly susceptible to the his Stoic nature.
psychological impact of his actions, which By saying “No man bears sorrow better,”
manifest as this ghostly vision. Brutus suggests that he is enduring his grief
with strength and composure.
22. Read the following extract and answer the Cassius reacts with shock and sorrow,
questions that follow: expressing disbelief and compassion by
Brutus O Cassius, I am sick of many griefs. asking, “Upon what sickness?”
Cassius Of your philosophy you make no use, (iii) This moment highlights the complex bond
If you give place to accidental evils. between Brutus and Cassius, as Cassius
Brutus No man bears sorrow better. Portia is expresses empathy for Brutus’s loss despite
dead. their earlier disagreements.
Cassius How ‘scaped I killing when I cross’d you Earlier events, such as their argument over
so? Cassius’s alleged corruption and their differing
O insupportable and touching loss! Upon what leadership styles, created tension but also
sickness? showcased their mutual respect and loyalty.
(i) What does Brutus mean by “I am sick of (iv) The theme of grief and loss is central to
many griefs”? this extract, as Brutus mourns Portia while
What does Cassius mean by “Of your maintaining his Stoic composure.
philosophy you make no use”? This moment foreshadows the eventual defeat
What philosophy does Cassius refer to in this and deaths of Brutus and Cassius, as their
context? personal and political struggles culminate in
(ii) How does Brutus reveal Portia’s death to tragedy.
Cassius? (v) Brutus’s stoicism reflects strength, as he
What does Brutus mean by “No man bears strives to maintain composure and focus on
sorrow better”? their cause despite his personal loss. His ability
How does Cassius react to the news of Portia’s to compartmentalize his grief underscores his
death? commitment to his ideals.
(iii) How does this moment highlight the bond However, his detachment may also indicate
between Brutus and Cassius? a suppression of emotion, as he prioritizes
What earlier events in the play contributed to the conspirators’ mission over his personal
the tension between them? healing, leading to emotional isolation.
(iv) How does the theme of grief and loss come
23. Read the following extract and answer the
through in this extract?
What does this moment foreshadow about questions that follow:
Brutus and Cassius’s fate? Brutus:
(v) Do you think Brutus’s stoicism in dealing “All this!” ay, more fret till your proud heart break;
with Portia’s death reflects strength or Go show your slaves how choleric you are,
detachment? And make your bondmen tremble. Must I budge?
Support your answer with examples from the Must I observe you? Must I stand and crouch
play. Under your testy humour?
(i) Who is Brutus speaking to, and what is the
Ans context of this speech?
(i) Brutus means that he is overwhelmed by What does Brutus mean by “fret till your
multiple sorrows, including personal and proud heart break”?
political challenges. Explain “Go show your slaves how choleric
Cassius rebukes Brutus for not applying his you are.”

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126. Cassius asserts, “I am a soldier, I, older in _____, Brutus’s scornful phrase “slight man” reflects
abler than yourself/To make conditions.” his deep frustration. He sees Cassius’s threats as
(a) cunning hollow, thereby minimizing Cassius’s importance
(b) station and exposing the depth of their strained
(c) practice relationship.
(d) tactics
130. Brutus insists, “You shall digest the venom of
Ans your _____/Though it do split you.”
(c) practice (a) wrath
(b) honor
Cassius proclaims his greater military experience,
(c) body
insisting he is “older in practice.” This highlights
(d) spleen
the tension between him and Brutus over who is
more capable of leading their cause. Ans

127. Brutus exclaims, “I had rather be a dog and bay (d) spleen
the _____/Than such a Roman.” Brutus tells Cassius he must endure his own
(a) sun anger—“the venom of your spleen.” This vivid
(b) moon metaphor signals Brutus’s refusal to be cowed by
(c) wind Cassius’s rage or manipulation.
(d) sea
131. Identify the correct sequence detailing the initial
Ans dispute between Cassius and Brutus over Lucius
(b) moon Pella.
1. Brutus criticizes Cassius for having an
Brutus insists he’d prefer a lowly existence—like
“itching palm.”
a dog howling at the moon—rather than stoop
2. Cassius notes Brutus has “condemned and
to corruption. His statement underlines his
noted” Lucius Pella.
uncompromising moral stance despite Cassius’s
3. Cassius defends ignoring “every nice offense”
complaints.
in dire times.
128. Brutus declares, “The name of Cassius honors 4. Brutus insists Cassius brought this on himself
this corruption,/And _____ doth therefore by advocating bribery.
hide his head.” (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
(a) chastisement (b) 2, 3, 4, 1
(b) forgiveness (c) 2, 4, 1, 3
(c) harmony (d) 3, 1, 4, 2
(d) mercy Ans
Ans (b) 2, 3, 4, 1
(a) chastisement Cassius begins by faulting Brutus for condemning
Brutus accuses Cassius of corruption, saying just Lucius Pella; he argues not to fuss over small
punishment (“chastisement”) remains hidden. His offenses. Brutus rebuffs Cassius’s plea, calling
words illustrate his moral outrage and readiness him “itching palm” for tolerating bribery.
to censure even a close ally for wrongdoing.
132. Determine the correct order in which threats and
129. In anger, Brutus dismissively calls Cassius “slight tempers flare between them.
_____” during their heated confrontation. 1. Brutus dismisses Cassius as a “slight man.”
(a) foe 2. Cassius warns Brutus not to “presume too
(b) man much upon my love.”
(c) friend 3. Cassius boasts he is older and more practiced
(d) force in war.
4. Brutus taunts Cassius to break if his proud
Ans
heart cannot bear it.
(b) man (a) 3, 4, 2, 1
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

conflict. (iii) How does this moment contrast with the

By “dishonor shall be humor,” Brutus implies earlier tension between Brutus and Cassius?
that dishonorable actions, when viewed What earlier actions in the play led to their
with perspective, lose their significance and conflict?
become trivial. (iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of
This reveals Brutus’s strategy of de-escalating friendship and forgiveness in the play?
conflicts by maintaining a calm and rational What does this reveal about the dynamics of
demeanor, prioritizing resolution over Brutus and Cassius’s relationship?
confrontation. (v) Do you think this reconciliation between
(iii) Brutus’s comparison of himself to a lamb Brutus and Cassius is genuine and lasting?
reflects his composed and forgiving nature, Support your answer with reference to their
showing his preference for peace and relationship and the challenges they face.
rationality over impulsive reactions.
Ans
Earlier moments, such as his measured
response to Caesar’s assassination and (i) “In this I bury all unkindness, Cassius” means
his restrained handling of arguments with that Brutus forgives Cassius for their earlier
Cassius, demonstrate his composure under disagreements and sets aside any resentment.
pressure. “My heart is thirsty for that noble pledge”
(iv) This moment highlights the contrast between implies that Cassius deeply values Brutus’s
Brutus’s calm and rational personality and gesture of reconciliation and desires to restore
Cassius’s emotional and fiery temperament. their bond.
It reveals the challenges in maintaining unity “I cannot drink too much of Brutus’ love”
between them, as their differing approaches reflects Cassius’s emotional response,
to conflict and leadership often create tension. expressing his eagerness to fully embrace
(v) Brutus’s calm and rational approach to their friendship and unity.
Cassius’s anger is effective in diffusing the (ii) This moment reflects Brutus’s and Cassius’s
immediate conflict and preventing further mutual effort to reconcile and move past their
escalation. conflict for the sake of their shared cause.
However, it may also leave underlying issues The bowl of wine symbolizes their truce and
unresolved, as Cassius’s emotional nature serves as a ceremonial act of forgiveness and
requires more direct acknowledgment and renewed camaraderie.
validation to maintain their alliance. Cassius’s response reveals his relief and
emotional investment in their friendship,
30. Read the following extract and answer the showing how much he values Brutus’s
questions that follow: approval.
Brutus: (iii) This moment contrasts sharply with the
Speak no more of her.—Give me a bowl of wine.— earlier tension between Brutus and Cassius,
In this I bury all unkindness, Cassius. where accusations and mistrust strained their
Cassius: alliance.
My heart is thirsty for that noble pledge.— Earlier actions, such as their disagreement
Fill, Lucius, till the wine o’erswell the cup; over Lucius Pella and Brutus’s criticism of
I cannot drink too much of Brutus’ love. Cassius’s leadership, contributed to their
(i) What does Brutus mean by “In this I bury all conflict and highlighted their differing
unkindness, Cassius”? priorities.
What does Cassius imply by “My heart is (iv) This extract reflects the theme of friendship
thirsty for that noble pledge”? and forgiveness, as Brutus and Cassius
Explain “I cannot drink too much of Brutus’ overcome their personal grievances to reaffirm
love.” their bond.
(ii) How does this moment reflect Brutus’s and It reveals the complexity of their relationship,
Cassius’s effort to reconcile? where loyalty and mutual respect coexist with
What role does the bowl of wine play in their occasional clashes over values and decisions.
resolution? (v) The reconciliation between Brutus and
How does Cassius’s response reveal his emotions? Cassius appears genuine, as both express

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Ans (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.

(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
When Cassius boasts and threatens, Brutus
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
responds by belittling those outbursts. Cassius’s
assertion of superior skill (1) directly provokes Ans
Brutus to treat him with laughter and scorn (2). (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
138. Select the option that shows the correct Brutus’s argument that they seize the initiative—
relationship between statements (1) and (2). taking the fight to Philippi—sways Cassius. Thus,
Statement (1) : Cassius offers Brutus his dagger, (1) directly convinces Cassius, who reluctantly
lamenting “Cassius is aweary of the world.” agrees to confront the enemy there (2).
Statement (2) : Brutus calms Cassius, telling him
to “sheathe your dagger” and calling him “yoked
with a lamb.”
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
EXTRACT BASED QUESTION
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
SCENE 1
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Ans 1. Read the following extract and answer the
questions that follow:
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Antony These many, then, shall die; their names
Cassius’s desperate gesture—offering his dagger are pricked.
in self-pity—prompts Brutus to comfort him. The Octavius Your brother too must die. Consent you,
dramatic threat of self-harm (1) triggers Brutus’s Lepidus?
soothing response and refusal to strike (2). Lepidus I do consent.
Octavius Prick him down, Antony.
139. Select the option that shows the correct Lepidus Upon condition Publius shall not live,
relationship between statements (1) and (2). Who is your sister’s son, Mark Antony.
Statement (1) : Brutus reveals Portia’s death (i) What does Antony mean by “their names are
but remains stoic, saying “I have the patience to pricked”?
endure it.” Why does Octavius ask Lepidus for his
Statement (2) : Cassius, shaken, wonders how consent?
Brutus isn’t enraged, exclaiming, “How ’scaped I Explain “Upon condition Publius shall not
killing when I crossed you so?” live, who is your sister’s son, Mark Antony.”
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. (ii) How does this moment reflect the ruthlessness
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. of Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus?
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). What does Lepidus’s willingness to sacrifice
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. his family reveal about his character?
Ans How does this exchange highlight the political
climate in Rome?
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this scene to show
After Brutus stoically discloses Portia’s death, the moral decline of the triumvirs?
Cassius is amazed by Brutus’s composure. That What earlier actions in the play foreshadow
calm revelation (1) makes Cassius wonder why this level of ruthlessness?
Brutus didn’t vent deadly anger on him (2). (iv) How does this extract foreshadow the
eventual conflict between Antony, Octavius,
140. Select the option that shows the correct
and Lepidus?
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
What does this reveal about their alliance
Statement (1) : Brutus insists on marching to
and the dynamics within the triumvirate?
Philippi, referencing “a tide in the affairs of men.”
(v) Do you think the actions of Antony, Octavius,
Statement (2) : Cassius yields, deciding they
and Lepidus in this scene are justified?
“meet them at Philippi” instead of waiting for
Support your answer with reference to their
the enemy.
motivations and the consequences for Rome.

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

4. Read the following extract and answer the and willingness to manipulate Caesar’s
questions that follow: generosity to serve his own ambitions.
Antony: (iii) This moment reflects the moral decline of
He shall not live; look, with a spot I damn him. Antony and the other triumvirs, as they
But, Lepidus, go you to Caesar’s house; prioritize personal gain over justice and
Fetch the will hither, and we shall determine honor.
How to cut off some charge in legacies. Earlier actions, such as Antony’s manipulation
(i) What does Antony mean by “look, with a of the Plebeians during Caesar’s funeral
spot I damn him”? speech, foreshadow his growing ambition and
What is Antony asking Lepidus to do? ethical compromises.
Explain “How to cut off some charge in (iv) This extract reveals the political strategy of
legacies.” Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus, as they use
(ii) How does Antony’s decision reflect his executions and financial manipulation to
attitude toward those on his execution list? secure their dominance in Rome.
What does Antony’s remark about Caesar’s It suggests that their alliance is based on self-
will reveal about his priorities? interest and convenience, with each member
How does this moment highlight Antony’s prioritizing their own power over loyalty or
ruthlessness? ethical governance.
(iii) How does this moment reflect the moral (v) Antony’s manipulation of Caesar’s will is not
decline of Antony and the other triumvirs? justified, as it undermines Caesar’s intentions
What earlier actions in the play foreshadow and exploits the trust of the Roman people
Antony’s growing ambition and disregard for for personal gain.
ethics? However, it reflects Antony’s pragmatism
(iv) How does this extract reveal the political and his focus on consolidating power in the
strategy of Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus? unstable political environment following
What does this suggest about their alliance Caesar’s assassination.
and their leadership in Rome?
(v) Do you think Antony’s manipulation of 5. Read the following extract and answer the
Caesar’s will is justified? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to his Antony:
character and his motives in the play. This is a slight, unmeritable man,
Meet to be sent on errands. Is it fit,
Ans The threefold world divided, he should stand
(i) “Look, with a spot I damn him” means that One of the three to share it?
Antony condemns a person to death with a Octavius:
simple mark on a list, demonstrating the ease So you thought him
with which he makes such decisions. And took his voice who should be pricked to die
Antony is asking Lepidus to retrieve Caesar’s In our black sentence and proscription.
will from his house so they can amend it for (i) Who is Antony referring to as a “slight,
their financial advantage. unmeritable man”?
“How to cut off some charge in legacies” What does Antony mean by “Is it fit, the
means that Antony wants to reduce the threefold world divided, he should stand one
financial burden of the gifts Caesar left to the of the three to share it?”
Roman citizens in his will. Explain “So you thought him and took his
(ii) Antony’s decision reflects his dismissive voice who should be pricked to die.”
attitude toward those on his execution list, (ii) How does Antony criticize Lepidus in this
treating their lives as expendable for his extract?
political goals. What does Octavius’s response reveal about
Antony’s remark about Caesar’s will reveals his perspective on Lepidus?
that his priorities are rooted in consolidating How does this moment reflect the tension
power and reducing expenses, even at the cost within the triumvirate?
of Caesar’s legacy. (iii) How does this exchange highlight the differing
This moment highlights Antony’s ruthlessness views of Antony and Octavius regarding

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(iii) This extract reflects Antony’s ambition and (iv) How does Antony’s attitude toward this
manipulation, as he views people like Lepidus person contrast with Octavius’s perspective?
as tools to achieve his goals rather than as What does this reveal about the dynamics
equals. within the Triumvirate?
Earlier actions, such as Antony’s manipulation (v) Do you think Antony’s assessment of this
of the Roman crowd during Caesar’s funeral, person is accurate?
reveal his political cunning and ability to use Support your answer with reference to the
others to consolidate power. individual’s role and actions in the play.
(iv) The exchange foreshadows future tensions
Ans
between Antony and Octavius, as their
differing views on leadership and loyalty (i) Antony is referring to Lepidus, a member of
suggest a fragile alliance. the Second Triumvirate.
It reveals that while they are united against By “He must be taught and trained,” Antony
Brutus and Cassius, their partnership is suggests that Lepidus lacks independent
rooted in convenience rather than mutual judgment and requires guidance to be useful.
respect, hinting at eventual conflict. The phrase “Do not talk of him, but as a
(v) Antony’s dismissal of Lepidus is unjustified, as property” implies that Antony views Lepidus
Lepidus plays a crucial role in the Triumvirate as a mere tool to be used for their political
and is a loyal ally. Antony’s condescension gain, rather than as an equal partner.
reflects his arrogance and disregard for those (ii) By calling Lepidus “a barren-spirited fellow,”
he considers inferior. Antony means that Lepidus lacks creativity,
However, one could argue that Antony’s initiative, and ambition.
assessment is pragmatic, as Lepidus lacks the Antony’s description reflects his belief that
ambition and influence needed to be a strong Lepidus contributes little to the Triumvirate’s
leader within the alliance. leadership and is easily replaceable.
Antony dismisses Lepidus because he sees
3. Read the following extract and answer the him as subordinate and insignificant, valuing
questions that follow: him only for his utility.
Antony: (iii) This extract highlights Antony’s political
He must be taught and trained, and bid go forth; pragmatism, as he prioritizes efficiency and
A barren-spirited fellow; one that feeds usefulness over loyalty or equality in alliances.
On objects, orts, and imitations, Earlier actions, such as Antony’s manipulation
Which, out of use and staled by other men, of the Roman mob during Caesar’s funeral,
Begin his fashion do not talk of him, show his skill in using rhetoric and people to
But as a property. achieve his goals.
(i) Who is Antony referring to, and how does he (iv) Antony’s condescension toward Lepidus
describe him? contrasts with Octavius’s view, as Octavius
What does Antony mean by “He must be acknowledges Lepidus’s loyalty and
taught and trained”? contributions as a soldier.
Explain “Do not talk of him, but as a This difference reveals the growing tension
property.” within the Triumvirate, as Antony’s arrogance
(ii) What does Antony mean by “a barren- and Octavius’s rising authority create a
spirited fellow”? fragile alliance.
How does Antony’s description of this person (v) Antony’s assessment of Lepidus as a
reflect his opinion of their value in the “property” is harsh and unfair, as Lepidus
Triumvirate? plays a role in maintaining the Triumvirate’s
Why does Antony dismiss him so easily? power and stability.
(iii) How does this extract reflect Antony’s However, Lepidus’s lack of ambition and
political pragmatism? leadership qualities may justify Antony’s view
What earlier actions in the play highlight that he is not an equal partner in decision-
Antony’s ability to use others for his making.
advantage?

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

Antony, Lepidus, and himself to strengthen (i) What does Antony mean by “I have seen
their position. more days than you”?
“Our best friends made, our means stretched” Why does Antony refer to someone as “the
means that they must secure the loyalty of ass that bears gold”?
allies and maximize their resources to face the Explain “Then take we down his load and
impending challenges. turn him off (Like to the empty ass) to shake
(ii) Octavius proposes to hold a council to his ears and graze in commons.”
strategize on how to reveal hidden dangers (ii) How does Antony describe the role of this
(“covert matters”) and respond to overt person in the triumvirate?
threats (“open perils”). What does this reveal about Antony’s attitude
This reveals Octavius’s pragmatic and toward them?
methodical approach to leadership, as he How does this reflect Antony’s pragmatic
prioritizes planning and coordination to approach to leadership?
ensure their success.
(iii) This moment highlights the urgency of (iii) How does this moment highlight the tension
their situation, as they must act swiftly to between Antony and Octavius?
consolidate power and address the threats What earlier events in the play contribute to
posed by Brutus, Cassius, and other rivals. this dynamic?
Earlier events, such as Caesar’s assassination (iv) How does Antony’s dismissal of this person
and Antony’s manipulation of the Plebeians, reflect the theme of power and manipulation
have led to a fractured Rome and the need for in the play?
decisive action by the triumvirate. What does this reveal about the fragile
(iv) This extract reflects the theme of unity and alliances in the triumvirate?
strategy, as Octavius stresses the importance (v) Do you think Antony’s treatment of this
of alliances and careful planning to navigate person is justified?
the chaotic political landscape. Support your answer with reference to the
It reveals the importance of alliances in political context and Antony’s character.
achieving and maintaining power, as the
Ans
triumvirs must rely on each other despite
their differences. (i) By “I have seen more days than you,” Antony
(v) Octavius’s plan to address both hidden asserts his experience and seniority over
and visible threats is effective in theory, Octavius, implying his greater understanding
as it ensures a comprehensive approach to of politics.
consolidating power and tackling opposition. Antony refers to Lepidus as “the ass that
However, the political climate and internal bears gold,” comparing him to a beast of
tensions within the triumvirate, particularly burden who carries responsibilities without
Antony’s dismissive attitude toward Lepidus, any real power or value.
may undermine their unity and long-term “Then take we down his load and turn him
stability. off (Like to the empty ass) to shake his ears
and graze in commons” means that once
7. Read the following extract and answer the Lepidus has fulfilled his usefulness, he will be
questions that follow: discarded and left to a powerless existence.
Antony: (ii) Antony describes Lepidus’s role as purely
Octavius, I have seen more days than you, functional, burdening him with tasks to shield
And, though we lay these honors on this man themselves from blame while controlling him
To ease ourselves of diverse sland’rous loads, as a tool for their own benefit.
He shall but bear them as the ass bears gold, This reveals Antony’s dismissive and
To groan and sweat under the business, manipulative attitude toward Lepidus,
Either led or driven, as we point the way; viewing him as expendable and unworthy of
And having brought our treasure where we will, equal power in the triumvirate.
Then take we down his load and turn him off This reflects Antony’s pragmatic approach to
(Like to the empty ass) to shake his ears leadership, as he prioritizes efficiency and his
And graze in commons. own ambitions over loyalty or fairness.

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leadership? than mutual respect, setting the stage for

What earlier actions in the play foreshadow future betrayal and discord.
their conflict over power and authority? (v) Antony’s opinion of Lepidus as “slight” and
(iv) How does Antony’s dismissal of Lepidus “unmeritable” is partially justified, as Lepidus
reflect his ambition and sense of superiority? lacks the ambition and influence of Antony
What does this reveal about the fragile nature and Octavius, making him less effective as a
of their alliance? leader.
(v) Do you agree with Antony’s opinion of However, Lepidus’s loyalty and willingness
Lepidus as “slight” and “unmeritable”? to follow orders suggest that he plays a
Support your answer with reference to stabilizing role in the triumvirate, even if he
Lepidus’s role and actions in the play. is overshadowed by the other two.
Ans 6. Read the following extract and answer the
(i) Antony is referring to Lepidus, criticizing questions that follow:
his abilities and worthiness to be part of the Octavius:
triumvirate. We must straight make head.
By “Is it fit, the threefold world divided, he Therefore let our alliance be combined,
should stand one of the three to share it?” Our best friends made, our means stretched;
Antony questions whether Lepidus deserves And let us presently go sit in council
an equal share of power in ruling the Roman How covert matters may be best disclosed
world. And open perils surest answered.
“So you thought him and took his voice who (i) What does Octavius mean by “We must
should be pricked to die” means that Octavius straight make head”?
allowed Lepidus to have a say in deciding who Why does he emphasize “let our alliance be
should be executed, acknowledging his role in combined”?
their proscription lists. Explain “Our best friends made, our means
(ii) Antony criticizes Lepidus by describing him stretched.”
as insignificant and only suitable for errands, (ii) How does Octavius propose to handle the
implying that he lacks the qualities needed challenges facing them?
for leadership. What does “covert matters” and “open
Octavius’s response reveals his pragmatic perils” refer to in this context?
view, as he acknowledges Lepidus’s What does this reveal about Octavius’s
involvement in their decisions but does not leadership style?
challenge Antony’s low opinion of him. (iii) How does this moment highlight the urgency
This moment reflects the tension within the of their situation?
triumvirate, as Antony and Octavius have What earlier events in the play have led to
differing opinions about Lepidus’s value and this point?
role. (iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of
(iii) This exchange highlights Antony’s dismissive unity and strategy in the play?
attitude and desire for dominance, while What does this reveal about the importance
Octavius’s response shows his willingness to of alliances in achieving power?
use Lepidus strategically. (v) Do you think Octavius’s plan to address both
Earlier actions, such as their creation of the hidden and visible threats is effective?
proscription lists and Antony’s manipulation Support your answer with reference to the
of the Plebeians, foreshadow their differing political climate and the dynamics within the
approaches to leadership and eventual conflict triumvirate.
over power. Ans
(iv) Antony’s dismissal of Lepidus reflects his
ambition and sense of superiority, as he views (i) “We must straight make head” means that
Lepidus as unworthy of an equal position in Octavius insists on immediately organizing
the triumvirate. their forces to confront the threats against
This reveals the fragile nature of their them.
alliance, as it is built on convenience rather “Let our alliance be combined” emphasizes
the need for unity and cooperation among

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65. What mood does the conversation establish Brutus appeals to a higher power to validate his
regarding the future of their alliance? behavior. It illustrates his conviction that he has
(a) Assured and celebratory been just and that any true judgment will show
(b) Calm and without doubt he wrongs no allies.
(c) Tense and uncertain
(d) Peaceful with no conflict 69. Why does Cassius want to “enlarge” his griefs in
Ans private?
(a) He doesn’t trust his own soldiers
(c) Tense and uncertain (b) He wants to settle matters honorably without
Their dispute and decision to hold a private spectators
meeting foreshadow challenges ahead. Both (c) He fears immediate violence from Brutus’s
leaders sense distrust in each other, so the alliance men
remains under strain. (d) He plans to flee in the chaos

66. Which theme does Brutus highlight by saying Ans

armies should “perceive nothing but love from (b) He wants to settle matters honorably without
us”? spectators
(a) The danger of isolating one’s friends Cassius agrees to speak privately, aware that
(b) The importance of unity in leadership a public quarrel would undermine respect. By
(c) The need for personal ambition above all discussing in the tent, they can honestly express
(d) The betrayal of noble ideals grievances without exposing leadership strife.
Ans
70. What happens at the very end of this excerpt?
(b) The importance of unity in leadership
(a) Brutus and Cassius summon their armies for
Brutus emphasizes strong, united leadership to battle
maintain morale. By projecting harmony, they (b) Brutus and Cassius resolve their conflict in
keep soldiers’ trust, revealing how essential public
cohesive command is for military success and (c) All but Brutus and Cassius exit so they can
loyalty. confer
(d) Titinius challenges Pindarus to single combat
67. What does Brutus call Cassius when he addresses
him before their armies? Ans
(a) “Most noble brother” (c) All but Brutus and Cassius exit so they can
(b) “Dishonored leader” confer
(c) “Faithful friend”
(d) “Tyrant in disguise” The stage directions indicate everyone except
Brutus and Cassius leaves. This sets the stage for
Ans a private, possibly heated discussion, highlighting
(a) “Most noble brother” that the crux of their discord is yet to come.
Though tension exists, they still address each 71. “He is at hand, and Pindarus is come
other with respectful titles. Cassius initially says, To do you salutation from his master.”
“Most noble brother,” reflecting their fraternal These lines tell us that _____.
bond despite the current dispute. (a) Cassius is fleeing the battlefield
(b) Cassius is near and sends a greeting
68. What does Brutus’s line, “Judge me, you gods!”
(c) Pindarus plans to betray Brutus
imply about his self-perception?
(d) Lucilius is arranging a truce
(a) He believes in his innocence and fairness
(b) He feels deeply guilty about his actions Ans
(c) He does not believe in the gods (b) Cassius is near and sends a greeting
(d) He resents Cassius’s military power
Lucilius confirms Cassius is close by. Pindarus
Ans delivers his master’s “salutation,” showing
(a) He believes in his innocence and fairness Cassius still maintains respect for Brutus, despite
any growing tensions.

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(iii) This moment highlights the tension between (v) Do you think Octavius’s fears are justified?
Antony and Octavius, as Antony’s patronizing Support your answer with reference to the
tone suggests he doubts Octavius’s authority context of the play and the events that follow.
and judgment.
Ans
Earlier events, such as their differing views on
Lepidus and their strategies for dealing with (i) “We are at the stake” means that Octavius
opposition, contribute to this dynamic and and Antony are like animals tied to a stake,
foreshadow future conflict. surrounded by enemies, with no escape.
(iv) Antony’s dismissal of Lepidus reflects the “Bayed about with many enemies” implies
theme of power and manipulation, as he uses that they are being attacked and threatened
alliances for personal gain and discards them by numerous opponents, including visible
when they are no longer useful. enemies and hidden traitors.
It reveals the fragile alliances in the “And some that smile have in their hearts, I
triumvirate, where trust is replaced by fear, millions of mischiefs” suggests that even
ambition and self-interest, setting the stage those who appear friendly may harbor harmful
for eventual betrayal and discord. intentions, highlighting Octavius’s suspicion.
(v) Antony’s treatment of Lepidus is unjustified, (ii) Octavius describes the threats as both
as Lepidus’s loyalty and willingness to support external (enemies openly attacking them)
the triumvirate show he plays a stabilizing and internal (those who feign loyalty but plan
role. mischief).
However, Antony’s pragmatic view aligns with This reveals his awareness of the fragile
the political context, where survival often alliances in their political landscape and
depends on eliminating perceived weaknesses his cautious approach to navigating these
within alliances. dangers.
The moment reflects the precarious political
8. Read the following extract and answer the climate in Rome, where betrayal and mistrust
questions that follow: are rampant, and even allies cannot be fully
Octavius: trusted.
Let us do so, for we are at the stake (iii) Shakespeare uses this extract to highlight
And bayed about with many enemies, Octavius’s caution and suspicion, showing his
And some that smile have in their hearts, I fear, ability to perceive hidden dangers and plan
Millions of mischiefs. accordingly.
(i) What does Octavius mean by “we are at the Earlier moments, such as the conspirators’
stake”? betrayal of Caesar and Antony’s manipulation
What does “bayed about with many enemies” of the Plebeians, demonstrate the need for
imply about their situation? vigilance in this unstable environment.
Explain “And some that smile have in their (iv) Octavius’s statement foreshadows the
hearts, I fear, millions of mischiefs.” challenges he and Antony will face, including
(ii) How does Octavius describe the threats betrayal, internal conflicts, and external
surrounding him and Antony? threats from Brutus and Cassius.
What does this reveal about his perspective It reveals the fragile nature of alliances in the
on their alliance and their enemies? play, where loyalty is often overshadowed by
How does this moment reflect the precarious ambition and self-interest.
political climate in Rome? (v) Octavius’s fears are justified, as the events of
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this extract to the play demonstrate the constant presence
highlight Octavius’s caution and suspicion? of betrayal and conflict, even within alliances
What earlier moments in the play demonstrate like the triumvirate.
the need for such vigilance? His caution reflects the necessity of remaining
(iv) How does Octavius’s statement foreshadow vigilant in a political environment where
the challenges he and Antony will face? enemies often disguise themselves as friends,
What does this reveal about the fragile nature as seen in the tensions between Antony,
of alliances in the play? Octavius, and Lepidus.

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SCENE 2 (iii) This moment reflects the tension and

uncertainty among the conspirators, as
9. Read the following extract and answer the Brutus and Cassius’s alliance is strained by
questions that follow: differing leadership styles and priorities.
Brutus Stand ho! Earlier events, such as their argument over
Lucilius Give the word, ho, and stand! military strategy and Cassius’s perceived
Brutus What now, Lucilius, is Cassius near? corruption, have contributed to the growing
Lucilius He is at hand, and Pindarus is come distrust between them.
To do you salutation from his master. (iv) This extract reflects the theme of loyalty and
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Stand ho”? trust, as communication between Brutus and
What does Lucilius mean by “Give the word, Cassius is facilitated by their followers despite
ho, and stand”? personal tensions.
Explain “Pindarus is come to do you It reveals the dynamics of mutual respect and
salutation from his master.” the importance of loyalty among their ranks,
(ii) What does this interaction reveal about the even as their relationship faces challenges.
relationship between Brutus and Cassius? (v) Brutus’s leadership is partially effective in
How does Lucilius’s response reflect the loyalty maintaining unity, as he continues to engage
between Brutus and Cassius’s followers? with Cassius and his followers, ensuring
What does the arrival of Pindarus signify in communication remains open.
this moment? However, his principled and rigid approach
(iii) How does this moment reflect the tension and often creates friction, as seen in his conflicts
uncertainty among the conspirators? with Cassius, undermining their cohesion as
What earlier events in the play contribute to conspirators.
the strain in Brutus and Cassius’s relationship?
(iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of 10. Read the following extract and answer the
loyalty and trust in the play? questions that follow:
What does this reveal about the dynamics Brutus:
between Brutus, Cassius, and their followers? Thou hast described
(v) Do you think Brutus’s leadership is effective A hot friend cooling. Ever note, Lucilius,
in maintaining unity among the conspirators? When love begins to sicken and decay
Support your answer with reference to his It useth an enforced ceremony.
actions and relationships in the play. There are no tricks in plain and simple faith;
Ans But hollow men, like horses hot at hand,
Make gallant show and promise of their mettle.
(i) “Stand ho” means that Brutus is commanding (i) What does Brutus mean by “A hot friend
his soldiers to halt and prepare for a possible cooling”?
interaction or confrontation. What does the phrase “enforced ceremony”
“Give the word, ho, and stand” reflects suggest?
Lucilius’s order to ensure the soldiers remain Explain “There are no tricks in plain and
alert and ready for further instructions. simple faith.”
“Pindarus is come to do you salutation from (ii) How does Brutus compare hollow men to
his master” means that Pindarus has arrived horses?
with greetings and a message from Cassius. What qualities does he criticize through this
(ii) This interaction reveals a formal and metaphor?
respectful relationship between Brutus Why does Brutus mistrust such men?
and Cassius, despite the tension that has (iii) What does Brutus’s speech reveal about his
developed between them. concerns for loyalty?
Lucilius’s response reflects the loyalty How does this reflect the tension among the
of Cassius’s followers, as they serve as conspirators?
intermediaries to maintain communication (iv) How does this extract foreshadow later events
between the two leaders. in the play?
The arrival of Pindarus signifies an attempt What role does Brutus’s idealism play in his
to maintain unity and coordination among the eventual downfall?
conspirators, despite their internal conflicts.

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(v) Do you think Brutus’s belief in honesty and Hath given me some worthy cause to wish
loyalty is realistic? Things done undone, but if he be at hand
Support your opinion with reference to the I shall be satisfied.
play. Pindarus:
I do not doubt
Ans
But that my noble master will appear
(i) Brutus means that “A hot friend cooling” Such as he is, full of regard and honor.
describes a friend whose enthusiasm and (i) What does Brutus mean by “Your master...
loyalty have waned over time. hath given me some worthy cause to wish
The phrase “enforced ceremony” suggests things done undone”?
insincere gestures and formalities that replace Why does Brutus say, “If he be at hand I
genuine affection when love and loyalty fade. shall be satisfied”?
“There are no tricks in plain and simple faith” Explain “Such as he is, full of regard and
emphasizes that true loyalty is straightforward honor.”
and does not require deceit or pretense. (ii) How does Brutus express his frustration with
(ii) Brutus compares hollow men to horses that Cassius in this extract?
appear eager and full of potential but fail What does Pindarus’s response reveal about
when tested under pressure. his loyalty to Cassius?
He criticizes their tendency to boast about How does this moment reflect the tension
their strength and reliability but falter when between Brutus and Cassius?
faced with real challenges. (iii) How does this interaction highlight the theme
Brutus mistrusts such men because he values of miscommunication among the conspirators?
genuine loyalty and fears that their lack of What earlier moments in the play demonstrate
steadfastness will jeopardize their cause. the growing rift between Brutus and Cassius?
(iii) Brutus’s speech reveals his deep concern about (iv) How does Brutus’s tone reflect his leadership
the loyalty and sincerity of those around him. style and moral priorities?
He values honor and integrity above all else. What does this reveal about his approach to
This reflects the tension among the resolving conflicts with Cassius?
conspirators, particularly between Brutus (v) Do you think Brutus’s concerns about Cassius
and Cassius, as their differing motivations are justified?
and values begin to create divisions. Support your answer with reference to
(iv) This extract foreshadows the eventual betrayal the dynamics of their relationship and the
and failure within the conspirators’ ranks, as challenges they face.
their differing loyalties and ambitions lead to Ans
discord.
Brutus’s idealism, while noble, blinds him (i) By “Your master...hath given me some worthy
to the complexities of politics and human cause to wish things done undone,” Brutus
nature, contributing to his eventual downfall refers to his dissatisfaction with Cassius’s
as a leader. decisions or actions, which have created
(v) Brutus’s belief in honesty and loyalty is regret or conflict.
admirable but impractical in the context Brutus says, “If he be at hand I shall be
of politics and war. His idealism often satisfied,” indicating that he is willing
clashes with the reality of manipulation and to resolve their issues through direct
deception, as demonstrated by Antony’s communication with Cassius.
cunning rhetoric at Caesar’s funeral. “Such as he is, full of regard and honor” reflects
This unwavering commitment to his principles, Pindarus’s belief in Cassius’s integrity and his
though morally strong, hinders his ability to loyalty in defending Cassius’s character.
adapt to the harsh realities of leadership. (ii) Brutus expresses his frustration with Cassius
by alluding to past actions or decisions that
11. Read the following extract and answer the have caused tension or regret, though he
questions that follow: remains open to reconciliation.
Brutus: Pindarus’s response reveals his unwavering
He greets me well.—Your master, Pindarus, loyalty to Cassius, as he assures Brutus of
In his own change or by ill officers, Cassius’s honor and respectability.

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

This moment reflects the tension between What earlier events in the play have
Brutus and Cassius, as their differing values contributed to their strained relationship?
and priorities strain their alliance. (iv) How does Brutus’s concern about Cassius
(iii) This interaction highlights the theme of reflect the theme of loyalty and trust in the
miscommunication among the conspirators, play?
as Brutus and Cassius struggle to align their What does this reveal about the challenges
approaches and resolve conflicts. of maintaining unity among the conspirators?
Earlier moments, such as their argument over (v) Do you think Lucilius’s observation of Cassius
Cassius’s alleged corruption and their differing is significant to the dynamics between Brutus
views on military strategy, demonstrate the and Cassius?
growing rift between them. Support your answer with reference to their
(iv) Brutus’s tone reflects his principled and conflict and the play’s events.
measured leadership style, as he seeks
Ans
resolution through dialogue rather than
immediate judgment or confrontation. (i) “He is not doubted” means that Brutus
This reveals his commitment to moral expresses confidence in Cassius, despite their
priorities and fairness, even as he navigates ongoing tension.
the challenges of maintaining unity among Brutus asks Lucilius to explain how Cassius
the conspirators. received him, seeking reassurance about
(v) Brutus’s concerns about Cassius are justified, Cassius’s attitude and loyalty.
as Cassius’s pragmatic and sometimes self- “Nor with such free and friendly conference
serving actions conflict with Brutus’s idealistic as he hath used of old” means that Cassius’s
approach, creating tension in their alliance. interactions lack the warmth and openness he
However, Brutus’s inability to fully trust previously displayed.
Cassius also reflects his rigid adherence to his (ii) Lucilius describes Cassius’s behavior
principles, which can hinder their ability to as courteous and respectful but lacking
work together effectively. the familiar friendliness he once showed,
suggesting a cooling of their relationship.
12. Read the following extract and answer the This reveals that Brutus and Cassius’s
questions that follow: relationship has grown strained, with
Brutus: underlying tension affecting their interactions.
He is not doubted. Brutus seeks clarity about Cassius’s reception
A word, Lucilius, of Lucilius to gauge Cassius’s intentions and
How he received you. Let me be resolved. loyalty, reflecting his concerns about their
Lucilius: alliance.
With courtesy and with respect enough, (iii) This moment reflects the growing tension and
But not with such familiar instances distrust between Brutus and Cassius, as their
Nor with such free and friendly conference differing values and leadership styles strain
As he hath used of old. their bond.
(i) What does Brutus mean by “He is not Earlier events, such as their argument over
doubted”? Cassius’s alleged corruption and Brutus’s
What does Brutus ask Lucilius to explain? idealistic approach to the conspiracy, have
Explain “Nor with such free and friendly contributed to their strained relationship.
conference as he hath used of old.” (iv) Brutus’s concern about Cassius reflects the
(ii) How does Lucilius describe Cassius’s behavior theme of loyalty and trust, as he struggles
toward him? to maintain unity and resolve conflicts within
What does this reveal about the current state the conspiracy.
of Brutus and Cassius’s relationship? It reveals the challenges of maintaining
Why does Brutus seek clarity about Cassius’s cohesion among the conspirators, particularly
reception of Lucilius? when personal differences and ambitions
(iii) How does this moment reflect the growing threaten their alliance.
tension and distrust between Brutus and (v) Lucilius’s observation is significant, as it
Cassius? highlights the subtle but growing divide

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between Brutus and Cassius, foreshadowing Cassius’s forces, reflecting his strategic
their eventual fallout. mindset.
The change in Cassius’s behavior reflects the (ii) Lucilius describes Cassius’s army as planning
underlying tension and mistrust between the to quarter in Sardis for the night, with most
two leaders, impacting their ability to work of the cavalry already present.
together effectively. “The greater part, the horse in general”
suggests that Cassius has prioritized
13. Read the following extract and answer the positioning his cavalry, emphasizing their
questions that follow: importance in the coming battle.
Brutus: This moment reflects the coordination between
But when they should endure the bloody spur, Brutus and Cassius’s forces, as they align their
They fall their crests and, like deceitful jades, strategies despite underlying tensions.
Sink in the trial. Comes his army on? (iii) Brutus’s comparison of some to “deceitful
Lucilius: jades” reflects his emphasis on loyalty,
They mean this night in Sardis to be quartered. resilience, and the ability to endure challenges,
The greater part, the horse in general, which he values in both allies and soldiers.
Are come with Cassius. Earlier moments, such as his concerns
(i) What does Brutus mean by “when they about Cassius’s motivations and actions,
should endure the bloody spur”? demonstrate his worries about dependability
What does “like deceitful jades” imply? within their alliance.
Explain “Comes his army on?” (iv) Lucilius’s report about Cassius’s army
(ii) How does Lucilius describe Cassius’s army’s highlights the logistical challenges and
movements? differences in leadership approaches,
What does “the greater part, the horse in foreshadowing potential conflicts within their
general” suggest about their strategy? alliance.
How does this moment reflect the coordination This reveals the fragility of their shared
between Brutus and Cassius’s forces? cause, as personal tensions and differing
(iii) How does Brutus’s comparison of some to strategies threaten the unity needed to face
“deceitful jades” reflect his views on loyalty their enemies.
and resilience? (v) Brutus’s leadership style, rooted in idealism
What earlier moments in the play demonstrate and moral principles, often conflicts with
Brutus’s concerns about dependability? the pragmatic realities of the conspirators’
(iv) How does Lucilius’s report about Cassius’s situation.
army foreshadow the challenges of their While his expectations of loyalty and resilience
alliance? are admirable, his rigid adherence to these
What does this reveal about the fragility of ideals can create friction and hinder effective
their shared cause? collaboration, as seen in his relationship with
(v) Do you think Brutus’s leadership style Cassius.
aligns with the realities of the conspirators’
situation? 14. Read the following extract and answer the
Support your answer with reference to his questions that follow:
actions and his expectations of others. Cassius:
Most noble brother, you have done me wrong.
Ans
Brutus:
(i) By “when they should endure the bloody Judge me, you gods! Wrong I mine enemies?
spur,” Brutus refers to the moment of true And if not so, how should I wrong a brother?
testing, where strength and resolve are Cassius:
required under pressure. Brutus, this sober form of yours hides wrongs,
“Like deceitful jades” implies a comparison to And when you do them—
untrustworthy or weak horses that falter when (i) What does Cassius mean by “you have done
pushed to their limits, reflecting Brutus’s me wrong”?
disdain for those who fail in critical moments. What does Brutus mean by “Judge me, you
“Comes his army on?” is Brutus’s inquiry gods!”?
about the movements and readiness of

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Explain “This sober form of yours hides differing strategies for the conspiracy, have
wrongs.” contributed to this conflict.
(ii) How does this exchange highlight the tension (iv) This extract reflects the theme of loyalty
between Brutus and Cassius? and betrayal, as Cassius feels wronged and
What does Brutus’s reaction reveal about his questions Brutus’s allegiance and respect for
character and sense of honor? him as an ally.
How does Cassius express his frustration with It reveals the challenges of maintaining
Brutus in this moment? unity among the conspirators, as personal
(iii) How does this moment reflect the growing differences and misunderstandings threaten
divide between Brutus and Cassius? their shared cause.
What earlier actions in the play have led to (v) Cassius’s accusation of Brutus is partially
this conflict? justified, as Brutus’s rigid adherence to
(iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of his principles often leads to conflicts with
loyalty and betrayal? Cassius’s more pragmatic approach.
What does this reveal about the challenges However, Brutus’s actions are motivated
of maintaining unity among the conspirators? by his commitment to honor and justice,
(v) Do you think Cassius’s accusation of Brutus suggesting that any perceived wrongdoing
is justified? is unintentional and rooted in their differing
Support your answer with reference to their values.
relationship and the events of the play.
15. Read the following extract and answer the
Ans questions that follow:
(i) Cassius means that Brutus has wronged him, Brutus:
likely by questioning or undermining his Cassius, be content. Speak your griefs softly.
decisions or actions, which Cassius perceives I do know you well. Before the eyes of both our
as a personal slight. armies here
By “Judge me, you gods!” Brutus calls on (Which should perceive nothing but love from us),
divine judgment to prove his innocence, Let us not wrangle. Bid them move away.
emphasizing his belief in his moral integrity Then in my tent, Cassius, enlarge your griefs,
and fairness. And I will give you audience.
“This sober form of yours hides wrongs” means (i) What does Brutus mean by “Cassius, be
that Cassius accuses Brutus of concealing his content”?
faults behind a calm and composed demeanor, Why does Brutus emphasize “Before the eyes
making his actions seem justified even when of both our armies here”?
they cause harm. Explain “Then in my tent, Cassius, enlarge
(ii) This exchange highlights the tension between your griefs, and I will give you audience.”
Brutus and Cassius, as their differing values (ii) How does Brutus handle the conflict with
and approaches to leadership strain their Cassius in this moment?
relationship. What does this reveal about his leadership
Brutus’s reaction reveals his unwavering style?
belief in his honor and moral righteousness, Why does Brutus want the armies to perceive
refusing to accept Cassius’s accusation unity between them?
without justification. (iii) How does this moment reflect the tension
Cassius expresses his frustration by accusing between personal grievances and public
Brutus of wronging him subtly and hiding image?
his faults behind a veneer of nobility and What earlier actions in the play contribute to
rationality. this dynamic between Brutus and Cassius?
(iii) This moment reflects the growing divide (iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of
between Brutus and Cassius, as their alliance leadership and responsibility in the play?
is increasingly strained by personal grievances What does this reveal about Brutus’s
and conflicting priorities. priorities as a leader?
Earlier actions, such as their argument (v) Do you think Brutus’s approach to resolving
over Cassius’s alleged corruption and their his conflict with Cassius is effective?

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Support your answer with reference to their 16. Read the following extract and answer the
relationship and the challenges they face. questions that follow:
Cassius:
Ans
Pindarus,
(i) “Be content” means that Brutus is asking Bid our commanders lead their charges off
Cassius to remain calm and composed, A little from this ground.
suggesting that they address their grievances Brutus:
in a more private setting. Lucius, do you the like, and let no man
By “Before the eyes of both our armies Come to our tent till we have done our conference.
here,” Brutus emphasizes the importance of Let Lucilius and Titinius guard our door.
maintaining a united front in front of their (i) What does Cassius mean by “Bid our
troops to avoid showing discord that could commanders lead their charges off a little
demoralize them. from this ground”?
“Then in my tent, Cassius, enlarge your What does Brutus instruct Lucius to do, and
griefs, and I will give you audience” means why?
that Brutus invites Cassius to express his Explain “Let Lucilius and Titinius guard our
complaints privately, promising to listen door.”
attentively. (ii) How do Cassius and Brutus demonstrate
(ii) Brutus handles the conflict with Cassius their intent to handle their conflict privately?
diplomatically, urging restraint and privacy Why is it important for them to resolve their
to address their disagreements. issues away from their armies?
This reveals his leadership style, which What does this moment reveal about their
prioritizes rationality, unity, and the leadership?
preservation of morale among their forces. (iii) How does this moment reflect the tension
Brutus wants the armies to perceive unity between Brutus and Cassius?
between them to maintain their confidence What earlier events in the play have
and strength as they prepare to face their contributed to the need for this private
enemies. conference?
(iii) This moment reflects the tension between (iv) How does the act of stationing guards reflect
personal grievances and public image, as the theme of unity and trust in the play?
Brutus seeks to manage their internal conflict What does this reveal about their priorities
without weakening their shared cause. as leaders?
Earlier actions, such as their differing (v) Do you think Brutus and Cassius’s decision to
approaches to leadership and Brutus’s address their grievances in private strengthens
idealistic views clashing with Cassius’s their leadership?
pragmatism, have contributed to their Support your answer with reference to their
strained relationship. actions and the dynamics of their alliance.
(iv) This extract reflects the theme of leadership
and responsibility, as Brutus prioritizes the Ans
stability and morale of their armies over (i) Cassius instructs Pindarus to have the
resolving personal disagreements immediately. commanders move their troops slightly away
It reveals that Brutus values unity and the from the current location to create privacy
perception of strength as essential components and avoid distractions.
of effective leadership during a time of crisis. Brutus instructs Lucius to ensure no one
(v) Brutus’s approach to resolving his conflict enters their tent during their conference,
with Cassius is effective in maintaining emphasizing the need for an undisturbed
unity and preventing their dispute from discussion.
undermining their armies’ morale. “Let Lucilius and Titinius guard our door”
However, it may also delay the resolution of means Brutus appoints trusted individuals
deeper issues between them, as their differing to secure their privacy, ensuring the meeting
values and priorities continue to create remains confidential.
tension within their alliance. (ii) Cassius and Brutus demonstrate their intent
to handle their conflict privately by creating

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

a secure and controlled environment away What does Cassius’s defense of Lucius Pella
from their troops. reveal about his values?
Resolving their issues away from their armies How does Brutus’s decision to condemn Pella
is crucial to maintain unity and prevent their reflect his own principles?
disagreement from undermining morale. (iii) How does this moment reflect the theme of
This moment reveals their recognition of the justice and corruption in the play?
importance of presenting a unified front as What earlier moments in the play foreshadow
leaders, even amid personal differences. this conflict between Brutus and Cassius?
(iii) This moment reflects the underlying tension (iv) How does Cassius’s grievance highlight the
between Brutus and Cassius, as their tension between personal loyalty and public
differing values and approaches to leadership duty?
necessitate a private resolution. What does this reveal about the differences in
Earlier events, such as their disputes over Brutus and Cassius’s leadership styles?
strategy and Brutus’s criticism of Cassius’s (v) Do you think Cassius’s grievance against
alleged corruption, have contributed to the Brutus is justified?
growing strain in their alliance. Support your answer with reference to their
(iv) The act of stationing guards reflects the relationship and their differing priorities.
theme of unity and trust, as it demonstrates
Ans
their commitment to resolving their issues
without external interference. (i) By “That you have wronged me doth appear in
It reveals their priorities as leaders, this,” Cassius accuses Brutus of disregarding
emphasizing the importance of collaboration his request to show leniency toward Lucius
and the need to project strength and stability Pella.
to their troops. Cassius refers to Lucius Pella, who was
(v) Brutus and Cassius’s decision to address accused of taking bribes, to highlight Brutus’s
their grievances in private strengthens their refusal to consider his personal appeal on
leadership by preventing their conflict from Pella’s behalf.
becoming a public spectacle. “Wherein my letters, praying on his side
This approach demonstrates their commitment because I knew the man, was slighted off”
to preserving their alliance and maintaining the means that Cassius’s written plea for Pella
morale of their forces, despite their personal was ignored by Brutus, causing resentment.
tensions. (ii) This extract highlights the conflict between
Brutus and Cassius, as it reveals their
differing priorities Brutus values justice and
integrity, while Cassius prioritizes personal
SCENE 3
loyalty.
17. Read the following extract and answer the Cassius’s defense of Lucius Pella reveals his
questions that follow: pragmatic approach to leadership and his
Cassius: emphasis on personal relationships over strict
That you have wronged me doth appear in this: adherence to principles.
You have condemned and noted Lucius Pella Brutus’s decision to condemn Pella reflects
For taking bribes here of the Sardians, his unwavering commitment to justice and
Wherein my letters, praying on his side his refusal to tolerate corruption, even among
Because I knew the man, was slighted off. allies.
(i) What does Cassius mean by “That you have (iii) This moment reflects the theme of justice
wronged me doth appear in this”? and corruption, as Brutus’s condemnation of
Why does Cassius refer to Lucius Pella in this Pella represents his stand against unethical
context? behavior, while Cassius’s plea reflects his
Explain “Wherein my letters, praying on his pragmatic tolerance for imperfection.
side because I knew the man, was slighted Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s internal
off.” struggle over joining the conspiracy and
(ii) How does this extract highlight the conflict Cassius’s manipulative tactics, foreshadow
between Brutus and Cassius? this conflict between their values.

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(iv) Cassius’s grievance highlights the tension Ans

between personal loyalty and public duty, (i) By “you yourself are much condemned to have
as he believes Brutus’s strict adherence to an itching palm,” Brutus accuses Cassius of
principles undermines their alliance. greed and corruption, implying that he takes
This reveals the differences in their leadership bribes.
styles Brutus is guided by idealism and “To sell and mart your offices for gold to
morality, while Cassius operates with undeservers” means Brutus accuses Cassius of
pragmatism and personal loyalty. using his position to grant favors to unworthy
(v) Cassius’s grievance against Brutus is partially individuals in exchange for money.
justified, as Brutus’s rigid principles can “You know that you are Brutus that speaks
strain personal relationships and alliances. this, or, by the gods, this speech were else
However, Brutus’s commitment to justice your last” reflects Cassius’s indignation and
and integrity is equally valid, as it reflects implies that anyone else daring to accuse him
his dedication to leading by example and in this way would face dire consequences.
maintaining ethical standards. (ii) Cassius reacts with outrage and disbelief,
18. Read the following extract and answer the emphasizing his loyalty and the special bond
questions that follow: between him and Brutus that allows such
Brutus: criticism without retaliation.
Let me tell you, Cassius, you yourself This reaction reveals Cassius’s pride and his
Are much condemned to have an itching palm, sensitivity to accusations that challenge his
To sell and mart your offices for gold honor or integrity.
To undeservers. This moment heightens the tension between
Cassius: Brutus and Cassius by bringing their
I an itching palm? conflicting values to the forefront and
You know that you are Brutus that speaks this, challenging the trust in their alliance.
Or, by the gods, this speech were else your last. (iii) This moment reflects the theme of honor
(i) What does Brutus mean by “you yourself are and corruption, as Brutus upholds his moral
much condemned to have an itching palm”? ideals while accusing Cassius of actions that
What does Brutus accuse Cassius of in undermine their shared cause.
“To sell and mart your offices for gold to Earlier moments, such as Cassius’s
undeservers”? manipulation of Brutus to join the conspiracy
Explain “You know that you are Brutus that and their argument over Lucius Pella,
speaks this, or, by the gods, this speech were foreshadow their differing approaches to
else your last.” honor and leadership.
(ii) How does Cassius react to Brutus’s (iv) Brutus’s accusation reflects his moral values
accusation? and his expectation that leaders should
What does this reaction reveal about Cassius’s act with integrity and fairness, even under
character? challenging circumstances.
How does this moment heighten the tension It reveals the stark differences between
between Brutus and Cassius? Brutus’s idealistic leadership style and
(iii) How does this moment reflect the theme of Cassius’s pragmatic, sometimes morally
honor and corruption in the play? flexible approach to power and alliances.
What earlier actions in the play foreshadow (v) Brutus’s criticism of Cassius is justified,
this conflict between Brutus and Cassius? as it aligns with his commitment to justice
(iv) How does Brutus’s accusation reflect his and ethical leadership, which he believes are
moral values and expectations of leadership? essential for their cause.
What does this reveal about the differences However, his rigid adherence to these ideals
in Brutus and Cassius’s approaches to power? can create conflict and undermine their
(v) Do you think Brutus’s criticism of Cassius is alliance, as Cassius’s pragmatism is equally
justified? necessary in their political struggle.
Support your answer with reference to their
relationship and the challenges they face as
leaders.

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(c) 3, 1, 4, 2 135. Identify how the decision to march on Philippi

(d) 4, 1, 3, 2 unfolds.
1. Cassius advises letting the enemy seek them.
Ans
2. Brutus argues that meeting at Philippi cuts
(c) 3, 1, 4, 2 off enemy reinforcements.
Cassius proclaims his greater experience. Brutus 3. Cassius yields, saying, “Then, with your will,
retorts, calling him a “slight man.” He further go on.”
goads Cassius to “fret” if he must, prompting 4. They end the night’s discussion, planning to
Cassius to threaten that Brutus pushes his march at dawn.
affection too far. (a) 2, 1, 4, 3
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4
133. Choose the correct progression showing how (c) 1, 4, 2, 3
Cassius offers his dagger in despair. (d) 4, 3, 2, 1
1. Cassius laments he is “aweary of the world.”
Ans
2. Cassius hands Brutus his dagger, inviting him
to strike. (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
3. Cassius accuses Brutus of magnifying his Cassius initially wants the enemy to exhaust
faults. themselves first. Brutus counters that facing them
4. Brutus calms him, refusing to stab Cassius. at Philippi prevents their growth in numbers,
(a) 3, 1, 2, 4 prompting Cassius to agree. They close out,
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3 resolved to march.
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4
(d) 2, 3, 1, 4 136. Select the option that shows the correct
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Ans
Statement (1) : Cassius accuses Brutus of
(a) 3, 1, 2, 4 condemning Lucius Pella, despite Cassius’s letters
Cassius first says Brutus “makes mine [faults] supporting him.
greater,” then despairs that he’s “aweary of the Statement (2) : Brutus rebukes Cassius for having
world.” He offers his dagger for Brutus to kill an “itching palm,” implying he tolerates bribery.
him, but Brutus declines, restoring fragile peace. (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
134. Select the correct order in which news of Portia (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
emerges and is discussed. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
1. Brutus finally discloses that Portia is dead.
Ans
2. Cassius exclaims, “Ha? Portia?” in disbelief.
3. They acknowledge Portia’s desperate act of (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
“swallowing fire.” Cassius’s grievance about Lucius Pella doesn’t
4. Brutus chooses to bury his grief and move on. directly prompt Brutus’s charge of greed.
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4 While Cassius defends bribery leniency, Brutus
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4 condemns any corruption, so they stem from
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 differing perspectives.
(d) 3, 2, 4, 1
137. Select the option that shows the correct
Ans
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 Statement (1) : Cassius threatens Brutus : “I am
Brutus first reveals Portia’s death, shocking a soldier … abler than yourself.”
Cassius. They learn she killed herself by swallowing Statement (2) : Brutus mocks Cassius’s temper,
fire. Despite the loss, Brutus sets aside his sorrow resolving to use him “for my mirth” if he remains
to focus on the pending battle. waspish.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.

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Ans (i) Who or what does Brutus see in this scene?

(i) Brutus is speaking to Cassius, accusing him What does Brutus mean by “the weakness of
of acting dishonorably by engaging in corrupt mine eyes”?
practices. This conversation occurs during Explain “That makes my blood cold and my
their heated argument in the battlefield camp. hair to stare.”
“Base bribes” refers to money obtained (ii) How does Brutus address the apparition?
through unethical means. Brutus condemns What does this encounter reveal about his
such actions as they undermine the moral state of mind?
high ground they claimed in assassinating Why is this moment significant in the play?
Caesar. (iii) How does this moment reflect the theme of
(ii) By saying, “Did not great Julius bleed for guilt and fear?
justice’ sake?” Brutus reminds Cassius that What earlier events contribute to Brutus’s
Caesar was killed to uphold justice and moral emotions in this scene?
principles. (iv) How does Shakespeare use imagery to convey
He views taking bribes as dishonorable, the supernatural in this extract?
equating it to betrayal of the ideals they What does this encounter foreshadow about
fought for when they assassinated Caesar. Brutus’s fate?
(iii) Brutus portrays himself as morally upright, (v) Do you think Brutus’s reaction to the
contrasting his honor with the corrupt apparition is justified?
behavior of those who accept bribes. Support your answer with reference to his
The line “I had rather be a dog and bay the character and his role in the conspiracy.
moon, than such a Roman” highlights Brutus’s Ans
disdain for dishonor and his commitment to
integrity, even in dire circumstances. (i) Brutus sees the ghost of Julius Caesar in
(iv) This moment underscores the ideological rift this scene, which appears as a “monstrous
between Brutus and Cassius. While Brutus apparition.”
values honor and justice, Cassius appears By “the weakness of mine eyes,” Brutus
more pragmatic and self-serving. suggests that he doubts his vision and
Their earlier disagreements over strategy and attributes the apparition to exhaustion or
leadership decisions have already revealed stress.
their differing values, deepening their conflict. The phrase “That makes my blood cold and
(v) Brutus’s stance against corruption reflects my hair to stare” reflects Brutus’s fear and
his idealistic nature and his commitment to shock upon encountering the ghost, which
justice and integrity. His actions are consistent chills him to his core.
with his character throughout the play, as he (ii) Brutus addresses the apparition with
prioritizes morality over personal gain. uncertainty, questioning whether it is divine,
However, his rigid adherence to these values angelic, or demonic.
creates challenges in practical situations like This encounter reveals his guilt and anxiety
funding a war. This inflexibility sometimes over his role in Caesar’s assassination, as he
weakens his leadership, as seen in his struggles struggles to reconcile his actions with their
to maintain unity among the conspirators. consequences.
This moment is significant because it
symbolizes Brutus’s inner turmoil and
foreshadows his eventual downfall.
21. Read the following extract and answer the (iii) This moment reflects the theme of guilt and
questions that follow: fear, as Brutus is haunted by the moral weight
Brutus: of Caesar’s assassination.
How ill this taper burns! Ha! Who comes here? Earlier events, such as his betrayal of Caesar
I think it is the weakness of mine eyes and the conspirators’ loss of unity, contribute
That shapes this monstrous apparition. to his sense of dread and foreboding.
It comes upon me. Art thou any thing? (iv) Shakespeare uses imagery like “monstrous
Art thou some god, some angel, or some devil, apparition” and “my hair to stare” to create
That makes my blood cold and my hair to stare? an eerie, supernatural atmosphere.
Speak to me thou art.

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19. Read the following extract and answer the The disagreement stems from earlier events
questions that follow: in the play, where Brutus and Cassius clash
Brutus I did send to you over their differing values and approaches to
For certain sums of gold, which you denied me; leadership.
For I can raise no money by vile means: (v) Yes, Brutus is justified in criticizing the
By heaven, I had rather coin my heart, acquisition of money by vile means because
And drop my blood for drachmas, than to wring it aligns with his commitment to honor and
From the hard hands of peasants their vile trash moral integrity, as seen throughout the play.
By any indirection. His actions are driven by his belief in doing
(i) Who is Brutus speaking to? what is right for Rome, even at personal cost.
Why did Brutus send for gold? Alternatively, one might argue that Brutus’s
Explain “I had rather coin my heart, and idealism makes him impractical, as money is
drop my blood for drachmas.” essential for war, and he should prioritize the
(ii) What does Brutus mean by “vile means”? survival of their cause over his principles.
How does Brutus contrast himself with the
people he mentions in the extract?
(iii) Why does Brutus call money “vile trash”?
How does this reflect his values as a leader?
20. Read the following extract and answer the
(iv) How does this moment contribute to the
questions that follow:
tension between Brutus and the person he is
Brutus Remember March, the ides of March
speaking to?
remember:
What earlier events in the play lead to this
Did not great Julius bleed for justice’ sake?
disagreement?
What villain touch’d his body, that did stab,
(v) Do you think Brutus is justified in criticizing
And not for justice? What, shall one of us
the acquisition of money by vile means?
That struck the foremost man of all this world
Support your opinion with reference to the
But for supporting robbers, shall we now
extract and Brutus’s character.
Contaminate our fingers with base bribes,
Ans And sell the mighty space of our large honours
(i) Brutus is speaking to Cassius, his fellow For so much trash as may be grasped thus?
conspirator. I had rather be a dog and bay the moon,
Brutus sent for gold to pay his troops during Than such a Roman.
their preparation for battle. (i) Who is Brutus speaking to, and what is the
The phrase “I had rather coin my heart, and context of this speech?
drop my blood for drachmas” means Brutus What does Brutus mean by “base bribes”?
would rather sacrifice his own life than acquire (ii) What does Brutus suggest by saying, “Did
money through dishonest or corrupt means. not great Julius bleed for justice’ sake?”
(ii) By “vile means,” Brutus refers to dishonest Why does Brutus call taking bribes a
or unethical ways of acquiring money, such as contamination of honor?
extortion or bribery. (iii) How does Brutus contrast himself with those
Brutus contrasts himself with those who who take bribes?
exploit others for wealth, emphasizing his What does the line “I had rather be a dog
moral integrity and disdain for corruption. and bay the moon, than such a Roman”
(iii) Brutus calls money “vile trash” to highlight reveal about his character?
his belief that material wealth has no intrinsic (iv) How does this moment highlight the conflict
value and can lead to moral corruption. between Brutus and the person he is
This reflects his values as a leader who addressing?
prioritizes honor and integrity over wealth or What earlier events in the play contribute to
personal gain. this tension?
(iv) This moment heightens the tension between (v) Do you think Brutus’s stance against
Brutus and Cassius, as Brutus accuses Cassius corruption is realistic, given the circumstances?
of denying him money and implies that Cassius Support your answer with reference to his
may have acquired wealth dishonorably. values and actions in the play.

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(ii) What does Brutus mean by “Must I stand principled and idealistic, prioritizing morality
and crouch under your testy humour”? and equality over personal relationships.
How does this reflect Brutus’s views on (v) Brutus’s response is justified, as Cassius’s
equality among the conspirators? temper and manipulation have created
Why does Brutus refuse to yield to the person discord within their alliance. Brutus’s refusal
he is addressing? to tolerate Cassius’s behavior reinforces his
(iii) How does this moment reflect the tension commitment to fairness and dignity.
between Brutus and the person he is speaking However, this moment also showcases Brutus’s
to? inflexibility, which sometimes hinders his
What earlier events in the play contribute to ability to collaborate effectively with others,
this tension? contributing to the conspirators’ downfall.
(iv) How does this extract reflect Brutus’s pride
and sense of honor? 24. Read the following extract and answer the
What does this reveal about his leadership questions that follow:
style? Brutus:
(v) Do you think Brutus’s response is justified in By the gods, You shall digest the venom of your
this moment? spleen,
Support your answer with reference to the Though it do split you; for, from this day forth,
relationship between Brutus and the person I’ll use you for my mirth, yea, for my laughter,
he is addressing. When you are waspish.
(i) Who is Brutus speaking to, and what is the
Ans context of this speech?
(i) Brutus is speaking to Cassius during a heated What does Brutus mean by “You shall digest
argument in their military camp. the venom of your spleen”?
“Fret till your proud heart break” means Explain “I’ll use you for my mirth, yea, for
that Brutus is telling Cassius to continue my laughter, when you are waspish.”
expressing his anger and frustration until it (ii) What does Brutus imply about the person he
overwhelms him. is addressing?
The phrase “Go show your slaves how choleric How does this reflect Brutus’s frustration?
you are” implies that Brutus views Cassius’s What does the phrase “venom of your spleen”
anger as unbecoming and suggests he direct suggest about the nature of their argument?
it toward those who fear him, rather than (iii) How does this moment highlight the conflict
Brutus himself. between Brutus and the person he is speaking
(ii) By “Must I stand and crouch under your testy to?
humour?” Brutus questions why he should What earlier events have contributed to the
tolerate Cassius’s temperamental behavior. tension between them?
This reflects Brutus’s belief in equality among (iv) How does Brutus’s tone in this extract reflect
the conspirators, as he refuses to submit to his leadership style?
Cassius’s emotional outbursts. What does this reveal about his relationship
Brutus refuses to yield because he sees himself with the conspirators?
as Cassius’s equal and believes in maintaining (v) Do you think Brutus’s handling of the
his dignity and principles. argument is effective?
(iii) This moment reflects the growing tension Support your answer with reference to his
between Brutus and Cassius, as their differing interaction with the person he is addressing.
values and leadership styles come into conflict. Ans
Earlier events, such as Cassius’s manipulation
(i) Brutus is speaking to Cassius during their
to draw Brutus into the conspiracy and their
heated argument in the military camp.
argument over military strategy, contribute
By “You shall digest the venom of your
to this rift.
spleen,” Brutus means that Cassius must
(iv) The extract highlights Brutus’s pride and
contain his anger and frustrations, even if it
sense of honor, as he refuses to be intimidated
causes him inner turmoil.
by Cassius’s temper.
“I’ll use you for my mirth, yea, for my laughter,
This reveals Brutus’s leadership style as
when you are waspish” suggests that Brutus

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

Ans (c) They must seek foreign allies for help

(c) Portia, his wife, is dead (d) They want to avoid possible storms
Brutus finally discloses that Portia died under Ans
great distress. This shocking loss explains Brutus’s (b) They should let the enemy wear themselves
grim mood and underscores the personal strain he out first
has been enduring.
Cassius feels it’s wiser to wait so Antony and
105. How did Portia reportedly end her life, according Octavius deplete their resources. He argues that
to Brutus? resting while the enemy marches will give their
(a) She used poison own troops an advantage.
(b) She stabbed herself in the heart
109. Why does Brutus think it better to meet the
(c) She jumped from the walls of Sardis
(d) She swallowed fire (hot coals) enemy at Philippi?
(a) They fear being attacked from behind
Ans
(b) They have stronger fortifications there
(d) She swallowed fire (hot coals) (c) Octavius’s men are too weak to fight
Brutus shares that Portia, distraught over his (d) It will guarantee Cassius’s safety
absence and the rise of Antony and Octavius, Ans
killed herself in a dramatic and painful manner,
(a) They fear being attacked from behind
emphasizing her desperation and despair.
Brutus points out the townspeople “stand but in
106. Which pair of enemies are marching with great forced affection” and might join Antony en route.
power against Brutus and Cassius? Meeting the foe early at Philippi prevents the
(a) Lepidus and Cicero enemy from amassing extra supporters.
(b) Antony and Octavius
(c) Pompey and Cinna 110. Which famous line does Brutus utter about taking
(d) Decius and Trebonius opportunities “at the flood”?
(a) “Time’s wave must carry our fortune forth.”
Ans
(b) “To sail when the sea is calm is folly.”
(b) Antony and Octavius (c) “There is a tide in the affairs of men.”
Messala and Brutus’s letters confirm Antony and (d) “Trust the wind to bear us swiftly on.”
Octavius are advancing with a mighty force. This Ans
looming threat pushes the two generals to settle
(c) “There is a tide in the affairs of men.”
their dispute and plan strategy.
Brutus likens fate to a tide that, if seized, leads
107. What conflicting reports do Brutus and Messala to success. Missing this moment brings only
receive regarding the senators? “shallows and miseries,” reinforcing his urgency
(a) Some say 100 senators are killed; others say 80 to march on Philippi.
(b) Some say 70 are killed; others say 100
(c) Some say 30 are killed; others say 40 111. How do Brutus and Cassius end their heated
(d) No conflict—both report 120 are dead discussion after deciding their strategy?
(a) They remain tense, refusing to speak further
Ans
(b) They part with bitterness and no resolution
(b) Some say 70 are killed; others say 100 (c) They wish each other good night and reconcile
Brutus’s letter claims 70 senators were proscribed, (d) They send messengers to ask for Antony’s
while Messala says 100. This discrepancy includes surrender
Cicero’s death, revealing the brutality of Antony, Ans
Octavius, and Lepidus toward their opponents.
(c) They wish each other good night and reconcile
108. What is Cassius’s main argument for not marching Having chosen to confront Antony and Octavius
immediately to Philippi? at Philippi, they close the argument peacefully.
(a) They should ambush Antony at night Cassius calls Brutus “my dear brother,” showing
(b) They should let the enemy wear themselves their renewed camaraderie before resting.
out first

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personal conflicts overshadow their shared “You forget yourself to hedge me in” implies
goals. that Brutus is overstepping his bounds by
(v) Brutus’s criticism of Cassius is partially fair, trying to control or limit Cassius’s authority.
as Cassius’s pride and defensiveness often “I am a soldier, I, older in practice, abler
hinder effective collaboration. than yourself to make conditions” means that
However, Brutus’s sarcastic and dismissive Cassius asserts his greater experience and skill
tone exacerbates the conflict, making it in military and political matters compared to
difficult for them to resolve their differences Brutus.
and maintain unity. (ii) Brutus responds to Cassius’s claim of
superiority with outright rejection, confidently
denying that Cassius is abler than him.
This exchange reveals the tension between
Brutus’s idealism and Cassius’s pragmatism,
26. Read the following extract and answer the
as both leaders vie for dominance in their
questions that follow:
partnership.
Cassius:
This moment escalates their conflict by
Brutus, bait not me.
challenging their mutual respect and straining
I’ll not endure it. You forget yourself
the trust needed to sustain their alliance.
To hedge me in. I am a soldier, I,
(iii) This argument reflects the theme of pride
Older in practice, abler than yourself
and power, as both Brutus and Cassius assert
To make conditions.
their authority and struggle to reconcile their
Brutus:
differing leadership styles.
Go to! You are not, Cassius.
Earlier moments, such as Cassius’s
Cassius:
manipulation of Brutus to join the conspiracy
I am.
and their disagreements over strategy,
Brutus:
foreshadow this clash between their egos and
I say you are not.
values.
(i) What does Cassius mean by “bait not me”?
(iv) Brutus’s refusal to concede reflects his
What does Cassius imply by “You forget
principled leadership style and his belief in
yourself to hedge me in”?
his moral and intellectual authority.
Explain “I am a soldier, I, older in practice,
This reveals the challenges of maintaining
abler than yourself to make conditions.”
unity among the conspirators, as personal
(ii) How does Brutus respond to Cassius’s claim
differences and conflicting priorities
of superiority?
undermine their collaboration.
What does this exchange reveal about the
(v) Cassius’s frustration with Brutus is partially
tension between their leadership styles?
justified, as Brutus’s rigid adherence to
How does this moment escalate their conflict?
his ideals can come across as dismissive of
(iii) How does this argument reflect the theme of
Cassius’s experience and contributions.
pride and power in the play?
However, Brutus’s assertiveness is also
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow
valid, as it demonstrates his confidence and
this clash between Brutus and Cassius?
commitment to leading with integrity, even if
(iv) How does Brutus’s refusal to concede reflect
it creates tension in their alliance.
his leadership style and values?
What does this reveal about the challenges 27. Read the following extract and answer the
in maintaining unity among the conspirators? questions that follow:
(v) Do you think Cassius’s frustration with Brutus:
Brutus is justified? You have done that you should be sorry for.
Support your answer with reference to their There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats,
relationship and their roles as leaders. For I am armed so strong in honesty
Ans That they pass by me as the idle wind,
Which I respect not. I did send to you
(i) “Bait not me” means that Cassius is telling For certain sums of gold, which you denied me,
Brutus to stop provoking or criticizing him, For I can raise no money by vile means.
as he will not tolerate it.

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

Ans I do appoint him store of provender:

(i) “These many, then, shall die; their names It is a creature that I teach to fight,
are pricked” means that Antony is marking To wind, to stop, to run directly on,
individuals for execution, consolidating power His corporal motion govern’d by my spirit,
by eliminating perceived threats. And, in some taste, is Lepidus but so.
Octavius asks Lepidus for his consent (i) Who is the “he” referred to by Octavius, and
regarding the death of his brother, ensuring why does Octavius defend him?
unity among the triumvirs in their decisions. What does Antony mean by “So is my horse,
“Upon condition Publius shall not live, who Octavius”?
is your sister’s son, Mark Antony” means Explain Antony’s comparison of Lepidus to a
that Lepidus agrees to sacrifice his brother in creature he controls.
exchange for Antony agreeing to the execution (ii) How does Antony describe Lepidus’s
of Publius, his nephew. capabilities?
(ii) This moment reflects the ruthlessness of What does this reveal about Antony’s attitude
Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus, as they toward Lepidus?
casually decide on the deaths of political How does this moment highlight the
rivals and even family members to secure differences between Antony and Octavius?
their power. (iii) How does this extract reflect Antony’s
Lepidus’s willingness to sacrifice his brother ambition and manipulation?
reveals his opportunism and his prioritization What earlier actions in the play reveal
of political loyalty over personal relationships. Antony’s political cunning?
The exchange highlights the brutal and (iv) How does this exchange foreshadow future
power-driven political climate in Rome, tensions between Antony and Octavius?
where survival often depends on eliminating What does this reveal about their alliance?
opposition. (v) Do you think Antony’s dismissal of Lepidus is
(iii) Shakespeare uses this scene to show the moral justified?
decline of the triumvirs, as they prioritize Support your answer with reference to
power over ethics and familial bonds. Lepidus’s role in the play.
Earlier actions, such as Caesar’s assassination Ans
and Antony’s manipulation of the Plebeians,
foreshadow the increasing ruthlessness of (i) The “he” referred to by Octavius is Lepidus, a
Rome’s leaders. member of the Second Triumvirate. Octavius
(iv) This extract foreshadows the eventual conflict defends Lepidus, calling him a valiant and
between Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus, as experienced soldier.
their alliance is based on convenience and Antony’s line “So is my horse, Octavius”
self-interest rather than mutual respect. diminishes Lepidus by comparing him to
It reveals the fragile dynamics within the a creature that follows orders but lacks
triumvirate, where betrayal and mistrust are independent thought.
inevitable as they vie for dominance. By comparing Lepidus to a creature he
(v) The actions of Antony, Octavius, and Lepidus controls, Antony implies that Lepidus is
are not justified, as their decisions are driven by a tool to be used and lacks the intellect or
personal ambition and a disregard for human leadership required to be an equal partner.
life, leading to further instability in Rome. (ii) Antony describes Lepidus as someone who
However, their actions can be understood as a can be trained and directed, similar to a
response to the chaotic political environment, horse, suggesting that he is useful but lacks
where eliminating rivals is seen as necessary autonomy.
for survival and control. This reveals Antony’s dismissive and
condescending attitude toward Lepidus,
2. Read the following extract and answer the viewing him as subordinate and dispensable.
questions that follow: This moment highlights the differences
Octavius You may do your will; between Antony’s pragmatism and Octavius’s
But he’s a tried and valiant soldier. recognition of loyalty, creating a subtle power
Antony So is my horse, Octavius; and for that dynamic within their alliance.

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Ans 29. Read the following extract and answer the

(i) “Brutus hath rived my heart” means that questions that follow:
Cassius feels deeply hurt and betrayed by Brutus:
Brutus’s actions or words, which he perceives Sheathe your dagger.
as unfair or dismissive. Be angry when you will, it shall have scope.
By “A friend should bear his friend’s Do what you will, dishonor shall be humor.
infirmities,” Cassius implies that Brutus Cassius, you are yoked with a lamb
should tolerate his weaknesses or flaws as a That carries anger as the flint bears fire,
true friend would. Who, much enforced, shows a hasty spark
“But Brutus makes mine greater than they And straight is cold again.
are” means that Cassius accuses Brutus of (i) What does Brutus mean by “Sheathe your
exaggerating his faults and being overly dagger”?
critical of him. What does Brutus imply by “Be angry when
(ii) Brutus responds to Cassius’s accusation by you will, it shall have scope”?
denying that he unfairly judges him, stating Explain “Who, much enforced, shows a hasty
that he only reacts when Cassius’s flaws spark and straight is cold again.”
directly affect him. (ii) How does Brutus address Cassius’s anger in
“I do not, till you practice them on me” means this extract?
that Brutus does not magnify Cassius’s faults What does Brutus mean by “dishonor shall
unless Cassius’s actions impact or harm him be humor”?
personally. How does this reveal Brutus’s approach to
This moment reflects the tension between handling their conflict?
Brutus and Cassius, as their differing (iii) How does Brutus’s comparison of himself to a
perspectives on friendship and accountability lamb reflect his character?
create conflict. What earlier moments in the play demonstrate
(iii) This extract highlights the theme of friendship Brutus’s tendency to remain composed under
and betrayal, as Cassius feels let down by pressure?
Brutus’s lack of empathy, while Brutus (iv) How does this moment highlight the contrast
prioritizes principles over personal bonds. between Brutus and Cassius’s personalities?
Earlier moments, such as their argument over What does this reveal about the challenges in
Lucius Pella and Brutus’s moral criticisms of maintaining unity between them?
Cassius, foreshadow this growing rift in their (v) Do you think Brutus’s calm and rational
relationship. approach to Cassius’s anger is effective?
(iv) Cassius’s emotional reaction reflects his Support your answer with reference to
passionate and sensitive personality, as he their relationship and the dynamics of their
values loyalty and personal connections, often alliance.
over principles. Ans
Brutus’s response reveals his adherence
to principles and his belief that personal (i) “Sheathe your dagger” means that Brutus is
flaws must be addressed if they harm their telling Cassius to put away his weapon and
shared cause, emphasizing his idealism over calm down, signaling that there is no need for
sentimentality. threats.
(v) Cassius’s grievance against Brutus is partially “Be angry when you will, it shall have scope”
valid, as Brutus’s rigid adherence to principles suggests that Brutus is allowing Cassius to
can appear harsh and dismissive of personal express his anger freely without hindrance.
loyalty. “Who, much enforced, shows a hasty spark
However, Brutus’s stance is also justified, as and straight is cold again” means that Brutus
his focus on integrity and the greater good compares himself to flint, which briefly sparks
reflects his commitment to their cause, even when struck but quickly returns to a calm
if it strains personal relationships. state, reflecting his ability to stay composed.
(ii) Brutus addresses Cassius’s anger with
calmness and understanding, demonstrating
his patience and refusal to escalate the

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

intends to mock Cassius’s outbursts and take (ii) What does Cassius mean by “You wrong me
them less seriously in the future. every way”?
(ii) Brutus implies that Cassius’s frequent temper How does Cassius attempt to clarify his
tantrums are childish and unbecoming of a earlier claim?
leader. What does this exchange reveal about the
This reflects Brutus’s frustration with Cassius’s tension between Brutus and Cassius?
inability to control his emotions, which he (iii) How does this argument reflect the conflict
finds disruptive and counterproductive. between Brutus and Cassius’s leadership
The phrase “venom of your spleen” styles?
metaphorically describes Cassius’s anger What earlier events in the play have caused
as toxic and harmful, further emphasizing friction between them?
Brutus’s disdain for such behavior. (iv) How does Brutus’s sarcasm reflect his attitude
(iii) This moment highlights the deepening rift toward Cassius in this scene?
between Brutus and Cassius, as their personal What does this exchange suggest about their
differences and conflicting leadership styles ability to work together?
come to the forefront. (v) Do you think Brutus’s criticism of Cassius is
Earlier events, such as their argument over fair in this moment?
Cassius’s alleged corruption and their differing Support your answer with reference to their
priorities in the conspiracy, have contributed relationship and the events leading to this
to this tension. conflict.
(iv) Brutus’s tone in this extract is sarcastic
Ans
and dismissive, reflecting his principled and
idealistic leadership style. He refuses to (i) Brutus accuses Cassius of claiming superiority
tolerate behavior he views as irrational or as a soldier, challenging him to prove it
unproductive. through actions.
This reveals a strained relationship with the By “Let it appear so; make your vaunting
conspirators, as Brutus’s rigid adherence to true,” Brutus sarcastically encourages Cassius
his values often alienates him from his allies. to demonstrate his alleged military prowess.
(v) Brutus’s handling of the argument is not Cassius responds defensively, denying that he
entirely effective, as his sarcasm and dismissal claimed to be a better soldier and clarifying
of Cassius’s feelings further strain their that he referred to himself as an elder soldier.
relationship. (ii) Cassius’s statement “You wrong me every
While Brutus maintains his dignity and way” reflects his hurt and frustration with
principles, his inability to empathize with Brutus’s accusations and sarcastic tone.
Cassius undermines their unity, contributing Cassius clarifies that he never claimed to be
to the eventual collapse of their alliance. better than Brutus, only that his experience
as an elder soldier gave him insights.
25. Read the following extract and answer the
This exchange reveals the strain in their
questions that follow:
relationship, as Brutus’s sarcasm and Cassius’s
Cassius Is it come to this?
defensiveness highlight their growing mistrust
Brutus You say you are a better soldier:
and resentment.
Let it appear so; make your vaunting true,
(iii) This argument reflects the conflict between
And it shall please me well for mine own part,
Brutus’s principled, idealistic leadership and
I shall be glad to learn of abler men.
Cassius’s pragmatic, emotional approach.
Cassius You wrong me every way, you wrong me,
Earlier events, such as their disagreement
Brutus;
over Cassius’s alleged corruption and their
I said, an elder soldier, not a better:
differing strategies for the conspiracy, have
Did I say ‘better’ ?
exacerbated their tension.
(i) What does Brutus mean by “You say you are
(iv) Brutus’s sarcasm reflects his disdain for
a better soldier”?
Cassius’s emotional outbursts and his belief
What does Brutus imply by “Let it appear
in his own moral superiority.
so; make your vaunting true”?
This exchange suggests that their ability
How does Cassius respond to Brutus’s
to work together is deteriorating, as their
statement?

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sincere efforts to restore their friendship and to the pressing matter of the approaching
unity. enemy forces.
However, their differing leadership styles and This reveals his focus on duty and his ability
priorities may continue to create challenges, to prioritize critical issues as a leader in a
as the underlying tensions in their relationship time of crisis.
remain unresolved. Messala’s role as a messenger underscores the
importance of communication and intelligence
31. Read the following extract and answer the in preparing for the impending battle.
questions that follow: (iii) This moment reflects the tension and high
Brutus: stakes of the coming battle, as Brutus and
No more, I pray you.— Cassius face a formidable threat from Antony
Messala, I have here received letters and Octavius.
That young Octavius and Mark Antony Earlier events, such as Caesar’s assassination
Come down upon us with a mighty power, and Antony’s manipulation of the Plebeians,
Bending their expedition toward Philippi. have escalated tensions and set the stage for
(i) What does Brutus mean by “No more, I pray this confrontation.
you”? (iv) Brutus’s reaction to the letters reflects the
What information does Brutus share about theme of duty and responsibility, as he takes
Octavius and Antony? immediate steps to address the threat posed
Explain “Bending their expedition toward by Antony and Octavius.
Philippi.” This reveals his priorities as a leader,
(ii) How does Brutus’s tone reflect his sense of emphasizing his commitment to protecting
urgency and focus? their cause and preparing for the challenges
What does this reveal about his leadership in ahead.
the face of the approaching threat? (v) Brutus’s preparation for the battle at Philippi
How does Messala’s role contribute to the reflects strategic leadership, as he focuses on
dynamics of this moment? gathering intelligence and planning for the
(iii) How does this moment reflect the tension and confrontation.
stakes of the coming battle? However, his idealism and differences with
What earlier events in the play have led to Cassius may hinder their ability to act
this confrontation? cohesively, complicating their efforts against
(iv) How does Brutus’s reaction to the letters a united and powerful enemy.
reflect the theme of duty and responsibility?
32. Read the following extract and answer the
What does this reveal about his priorities as
a leader? questions that follow:
(v) Do you think Brutus’s preparation for the Brutus:
battle at Philippi reflects strategic leadership? This is a sleepy tune. O murd’rous slumber,
Support your answer with reference to his Layest thou thy leaden mace upon my boy,
decisions and the challenges he faces. That plays thee music?—Gentle knave, good
night.
Ans I will not do thee so much wrong to wake thee.
(i) By “No more, I pray you,” Brutus interrupts If thou dost nod, thou break’st thy instrument.
or ends a conversation, shifting focus to the I’ll take it from thee and, good boy, good night.
urgent news he has received. (i) What does Brutus mean by “This is a sleepy
Brutus shares that Octavius and Mark Antony tune”?
are advancing with a powerful army, signaling What does “O murd’rous slumber, layest
their intent to confront him and Cassius. thou thy leaden mace upon my boy” suggest
“Bending their expedition toward Philippi” about Brutus’s feelings?
means that Octavius and Antony are directing Explain “I will not do thee so much wrong to
their forces toward Philippi for a decisive wake thee.”
battle. (ii) How does Brutus address the boy who plays
(ii) Brutus’s tone reflects urgency and music for him?
determination, as he quickly shifts attention What does this reveal about Brutus’s

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

(i) What does Brutus mean by “You have done Earlier events, such as Brutus’s condemnation
that you should be sorry for”? of Lucius Pella and Cassius’s accusation of
What does Brutus mean by “There is no Brutus’s arrogance, have led to this critical
terror, Cassius, in your threats”? point in their relationship.
Explain “For I am armed so strong in honesty (iv) Brutus’s adherence to honesty and integrity
that they pass by me as the idle wind.” reflects his principled leadership style, as he
(ii) How does Brutus criticize Cassius in this refuses to compromise his morals, even under
extract? pressure.
What does Brutus mean by “For I can raise This reveals the challenges he faces in working
no money by vile means”? with Cassius, whose pragmatic approach
How does this moment reflect the moral often clashes with Brutus’s idealism and
differences between Brutus and Cassius? strict ethical standards.
(iii) How does this moment reflect the tension and (v) Brutus’s criticism of Cassius for denying
conflict between Brutus and Cassius? him money is justified, as the funds were
What earlier events in the play have led to necessary for their troops, and Cassius’s
this point in their relationship? refusal undermined their shared cause.
(iv) How does Brutus’s adherence to honesty and However, Cassius may have acted out of
integrity reflect his leadership style? frustration or miscommunication, highlighting
What does this reveal about the challenges he the importance of resolving their personal
faces in working with Cassius? conflicts to maintain unity.
(v) Do you think Brutus’s criticism of Cassius for 28. Read the following extract and answer the
denying him money is justified? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to their Cassius:
roles and their differing values. I did not. He was but a fool that brought
Ans My answer back. Brutus hath rived my heart.
A friend should bear his friend’s infirmities,
(i) By “You have done that you should be sorry
But Brutus makes mine greater than they are.
for,” Brutus accuses Cassius of actions he
Brutus:
considers unjust or unethical, which Cassius
I do not, till you practice them on me.
should regret.
(i) What does Cassius mean by “Brutus hath
“There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats”
rived my heart”?
means that Brutus is unfazed by Cassius’s
What does Cassius imply by “A friend should
anger or threats, as he is confident in his own
bear his friend’s infirmities”?
righteousness.
Explain “But Brutus makes mine greater
“For I am armed so strong in honesty that
than they are.”
they pass by me as the idle wind” implies
(ii) How does Brutus respond to Cassius’s
that Brutus’s moral integrity shields him
accusation?
from Cassius’s accusations or anger, which he
What does Brutus mean by “I do not, till you
dismisses as meaningless.
practice them on me”?
(ii) Brutus criticizes Cassius for refusing to send
How does this moment reflect the tension
him money when requested, despite the funds
between Brutus and Cassius?
being necessary for their cause.
(iii) How does this extract highlight the theme of
“For I can raise no money by vile means” reflects
friendship and betrayal?
Brutus’s refusal to engage in corrupt practices,
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow
contrasting with Cassius’s pragmatism.
this conflict between Brutus and Cassius?
This moment highlights the moral differences
(iv) How does Cassius’s emotional reaction reflect
between Brutus, who prioritizes ethics and
his personality and leadership style?
integrity, and Cassius, who often compromises
What does Brutus’s response reveal about his
for practical reasons.
adherence to principles over personal bonds?
(iii) This moment reflects the growing tension
(v) Do you think Cassius’s grievance against
between Brutus and Cassius, as their differing
Brutus is valid?
values and priorities create conflict and strain
Support your answer with reference to their
their alliance.
relationship and their contrasting values.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 113

in his tent, demonstrating his concern for Explain “Ill spirit, I would hold more talk
their well-being. with thee.”
“I’ll have them sleep on cushions in my tent” (ii) How does Brutus react to the disappearance
reflects Brutus’s thoughtful and considerate of the apparition?
nature, as he arranges for his men to rest What does his call to Lucius, Varro, and
properly despite the circumstances. Claudius reveal about his state of mind?
(ii) Brutus’s concern for Lucius and his men How does this moment reflect Brutus’s
reflects his compassion and sense of emotional and psychological state?
responsibility for those under his command. (iii) How does the apparition’s prophecy of
This reveals a leadership style rooted in Philippi foreshadow future events in the play?
empathy and respect, as he values the well- What earlier actions or themes in the play are
being of his followers even during moments of tied to this moment?
personal and political turmoil. (iv) How does Brutus’s reaction to the apparition
This moment contrasts with the high stakes reflect his inner conflict and leadership
of the impending battle, offering a tender and challenges?
humanizing pause amid the tension of war. What does this reveal about the pressures of
(iii) Shakespeare uses this interaction to humanize his role in the conspiracy?
Brutus, showing his kindness and capacity to (v) Do you think Brutus’s interaction with the
care for others despite the immense pressures apparition reflects guilt, a supernatural
he faces. warning, or a combination of both?
Earlier moments, such as his interactions Support your answer with reference to
with Portia and his measured responses to Brutus’s character and the play’s themes.
conflicts with Cassius, highlight his empathy
Ans
and commitment to those around him.
(iv) This extract reflects the theme of weariness (i) “Why, I will see thee at Philippi, then” means
and the burden of leadership, as Brutus’s care that Brutus acknowledges the apparition’s
for his men mirrors his own fatigue and the prophecy, indicating that he expects to
emotional weight of his responsibilities. encounter it again at Philippi.
It reveals the personal toll of Brutus’s “Now I have taken heart, thou vanishest”
leadership, as he must balance his duty to his suggests that as Brutus regains his composure
cause with his humanity and concern for his and courage, the apparition disappears,
followers. leaving him unsettled but resolute.
(v) Brutus’s care for his men enhances his “Ill spirit, I would hold more talk with
effectiveness as a leader, as it fosters loyalty thee” reflects Brutus’s desire to understand
and respect among his followers, ensuring the purpose and meaning of the apparition,
their support during critical moments. showing his curiosity and unresolved concerns.
His actions demonstrate the importance of (ii) Brutus reacts to the disappearance of the
balancing strategic decision-making with apparition with a mix of frustration and
empathy, highlighting the depth of his determination, as he wishes to confront and
character and leadership. understand the vision further.
His call to Lucius, Varro, and Claudius reflects
34. Read the following extract and answer the his need for reassurance and connection, as he
questions that follow: seeks to ground himself after the unsettling
Brutus: encounter.
Why, I will see thee at Philippi, then. This moment reveals Brutus’s emotional and
Now I have taken heart, thou vanishest. psychological strain, as he struggles with
Ill spirit, I would hold more talk with thee.— guilt, fear, and the weight of leadership.
Boy, Lucius!—Varro, Claudius, sirs, awake! (iii) The apparition’s prophecy of Philippi
Claudius! foreshadows the climactic battle where Brutus
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Why, I will see and Cassius face Antony and Octavius,
thee at Philippi, then”? symbolizing the impending consequences of
What does Brutus imply by “Now I have Caesar’s assassination.
taken heart, thou vanishest”? Earlier themes of fate and retribution, as well

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Ch 2 : Julius Caesar Act 4

as the omens surrounding Caesar’s death,

are tied to this moment, emphasizing the
inevitability of conflict and loss.
(iv) Brutus’s reaction to the apparition reflects
his inner conflict, as he is torn between his
rational mind and his emotional turmoil,
amplified by the apparition’s warning.
It reveals the pressures of his role in the
conspiracy, as he grapples with the moral and
practical challenges of leading a fractured
alliance.
(v) Brutus’s interaction with the apparition
reflects a combination of guilt and a
supernatural warning, as he is haunted by his
conscience while grappling with the ominous
prophecy.
His character, rooted in both logic and
emotion, struggles to reconcile his actions
with their consequences, aligning with the
play’s themes of fate and internal conflict.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 115

CHAPTER
3
JULIUS CAESAR : ACT 5

SUMMAR readiness for the battle ahead.

4. Brutus and Cassius’s Final Farewell

• Aware of the high stakes, Brutus and Cassius
SCENE 1 bid each other farewell, acknowledging the
This scene underscores the tension between the possibility that they may not survive.
opposing leaders, the foreshadowing of tragedy • Brutus’s Resolve Brutus declares that he will
through Cassius’s ominous vision, and the resolute face his fate but refuses to return to Rome as
determination of Brutus and Cassius as they prepare a slave.
for the decisive battle.
5. Marching to Battle
1. The Battlefield Setup • Brutus and Cassius, along with their armies,
• Antony and Octavius arrive at Philippi with advance toward the battleground, setting the
their forces, ready for battle against Brutus stage for the final conflict.
and Cassius.
• Disagreement in Strategy : Antony instructs SCENE 2
Octavius to attack from the left, but Octavius
insists on leading the attack from the right, This scene highlights Brutus’s tactical decision-
showing his determination and independence. making and his eagerness to seize an opportunity, but
his impatience foreshadows potential miscalculations
2. Meeting of Opposing Generals in the battle against Antony and Octavius.
• The leaders of both sides meet in the middle 1. Brutus’s Observation
of the battlefield for a pre-battle exchange.
• Exchange of Insults : Antony accuses Brutus • Brutus observes that Octavius’s forces appear
of betrayal and mocks the conspirators for disorganized and vulnerable.
• He perceives a weakness in Octavius’s army
their cowardly assassination of Caesar.
that he believes can be exploited.
• Cassius accuses Antony of deceit, claiming
his survival after Caesar’s death has led to 2. Orders to Cassius
today’s conflict.
• Cassius ridicules Octavius for his youth and • Brutus dispatches Messala to deliver an
Antony for his indulgent reputation. urgent message to Cassius, instructing him to
• The meeting ends without resolution, and attack Antony’s forces immediately.
both sides return to prepare for battle. • The strategy aims to prevent Antony from
assisting Octavius’s troops, further weakening
3. Cassius’s Ominous Vision their position.
• Cassius tells Messala about seeing crows 3. Premature Attack
and ravens circling the battlefield, casting
shadows. • Acting on his assessment, Brutus launches
• Omen of Defeat He interprets the scavenger an attack prematurely without waiting for
birds as a bad omen, symbolizing the potential Cassius’s forces to engage.
defeat of their forces. • This hasty decision sets the stage for potential
• Despite his fears, Cassius declares his consequences in the unfolding battle.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

SCENE 3 of Cassius and Titinius and laments that

Caesar’s spirit seems to haunt them, driving
This scene reflects the chaos and miscommunication them to self-destruction.
during war, leading to tragic outcomes. Cassius’s • Resolution Despite his grief, Brutus orders
despair and Titinius’s grief underline the devastating Cassius’s body to be sent to Thasos for burial
effects of misjudgment and the burden of guilt. and prepares his remaining troops for the
Brutus’s reaction shows his determination to continue next battle.
fighting despite the personal losses.

1. Cassius’s Despair on the Battlefield SCENE 4

• Retreating Soldiers Cassius notices his troops This scene showcases the loyalty of Brutus’s followers,
pulling back and, in frustration, kills his particularly Lucilius, who risks his life to protect his
standard-bearer for cowardice. leader. Antony’s respect for Lucilius underscores his
• Brutus’s Premature Attack Titinius blames pragmatic and noble qualities, contrasting the brutal
Brutus for attacking too soon, which has chaos of the battlefield. The scene heightens the
caused chaos in their strategy. tension as the search for Brutus continues.
• Antony’s Advance Pindarus reports that
Antony has infiltrated Cassius’s camp, and 1. Brutus’s Call to Action
Cassius sees the tents burning in the distance. • Brutus arrives on the battlefield with Cato,
Lucilius, and other supporters.
2. The Misunderstanding
• He commands them to stand firm and fight
• Titinius Sent to Investigate Cassius sends courageously, urging them to issue a strong
Titinius to check if the soldiers near the tents challenge to the enemy forces.
are allies or enemies. • After giving his orders, Brutus departs to
• Pindarus’s Report Watching from the hill, continue the fight.
Pindarus mistakenly reports that Titinius has
been captured by the enemy. 2. Young Cato’s Death
• Young Cato, boldly declaring his allegiance
3. Cassius’s Suicide
to Rome, fights valiantly but is killed by the
• Cassius’s Grief Believing his defeat is certain, enemy soldiers.
Cassius recalls how he saved Pindarus’s life in
the past and now asks Pindarus to fulfill his 3. Lucilius’s Capture
promise by killing him. • The enemy soldiers mistake Lucilius for
• Pindarus Complies Bound by his vow, Brutus and take him prisoner.
Pindarus stabs Cassius with his sword and • Lucilius cleverly uses the confusion to protect
flees in sorrow. Brutus by claiming he is Brutus.
4. The Truth Revealed 4. Antony’s Response
• Titinius Returns Titinius comes back with • When Antony arrives, Lucilius reveals his
Messala, bringing the news that Brutus has true identity and declares that Brutus is still
defeated Octavius. alive and will never be captured.
• Cassius’s Misjudgment They discover Cassius’s • Impressed by Lucilius’s loyalty and courage,
body and realize that he misunderstood the Antony orders his men to treat Lucilius as a
situation. The troops near the tents were friend.
allies celebrating victory. • Antony then sends his soldiers to continue the
search for Brutus, dead or alive.
5. Titinius’s Grief and Death
• Titinius’s Lament Overwhelmed with guilt,
Titinius places a wreath of victory on
SCENE 5
Cassius’s brow and kills himself in sorrow. This final scene brings closure to the tragedy,
emphasizing Brutus’s moral conflict, courage, and
6. Brutus’s Reaction nobility. Antony’s tribute and Octavius’s promise
• Caesar’s Curse Brutus finds the bodies of an honorable burial reinforce Brutus’s integrity,

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 117

distinguishing him from the other conspirators. his assassination is for the good of Rome.
The scene reflects themes of honor, loyalty, and the However, murder, especially in the form of
ultimate cost of political ambition. an assassination, cannot be justified. In the
end, Caesar’s assassination is avenged by
1. Brutus’s Final Moments Mark Antony, showing that murder is not an
• Brutus’s Request for Death Exhausted and acceptable means of gaining power.
realizing defeat is inevitable, Brutus asks
Clitus and Dardanius to kill him, but both
refuse.
• Brutus’s Vision of Caesar Brutus tells MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
Volumnius that he has seen Caesar’s ghost
again on the battlefield, a sign that his end
is near.
SCENE 1
• Refusal to Flee Despite his friends urging him 1. Who enters first?
to escape, Brutus bids them farewell, choosing (a) Brutus, Cassius
to face his fate rather than prolong the fight. (b) Lucilius, Titinius
(c) Octavius, Antony
2. Brutus’s Suicide
(d) Messala, Pindarus
• Strato’s Assistance Brutus asks Strato to
hold his sword so he can run onto it. Strato Ans
complies, and Brutus kills himself. (c) Octavius, Antony
• Final Words Brutus asks Caesar’s ghost to The scene opens with Octavius and Antony
rest now that he has joined him in death. arriving at Philippi, discussing how the enemy
3. Discovery of Brutus’s Body Brutus and Cassius has decided to confront
them. Their conversation sets the stage for the
• Arrival of Antony and Octavius Antony, impending battle.
Octavius, Messala, and Lucilius arrive at the
scene, having captured Messala and Lucilius. 2. What does Octavius note about their hopes?
• Strato’s Explanation Strato explains Brutus’s (a) They are lost
plight and how he chose death over capture. (b) They are answered
(c) They are foolish
4. Antony’s Tribute to Brutus (d) They are uncertain
• Acknowledgment of Brutus’s Nobility Antony Ans
proclaims Brutus as the most noble of the
conspirators, highlighting that while others (b) They are answered
acted out of jealousy and greed, Brutus joined Octavius says their hopes “are answered,”
the conspiracy for the greater good of Rome. indicating that Brutus and Cassius have come
• Heartfelt Homage Antony praises Brutus down to fight. This surprises Antony, who expected
for his honorable intentions and virtuous them to remain in higher ground instead.
character.
3. How does Antony describe the enemy’s
5. Octavius’s Declaration appearance?
• Honorable Burial Octavius announces that (a) “Fearful bravery”
Brutus will receive a military burial with full (b) “Silent resolve”
honors. (c) “Pathetic stance”
• End of the Conflict Octavius suggests they (d) “Frenzied march”
leave the battlefield and celebrate their victory. Ans

6. Moral of the Drama (a) “Fearful bravery”

• The moral of the play focuses on murder Antony claims Brutus and Cassius display a
being used as a way to gain political power. “fearful bravery” to seem courageous. He suggests
The conspirators plot against Caesar and they put on a bold front to trick Octavius and
justify their actions as honorable, claiming him into overestimating their strength.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

20. What work does Brutus say must end today? 24. What final note does Brutus sound before they
(a) “What the gods began” leave?
(b) “Our fight with Pompey” (a) “Come ho, away!”
(c) “The plan to crown Caesar” (b) “March on in peace!”
(d) “What the ides of March begun” (c) “Hold now, men!”
(d) “Slay all traitors!”
Ans
(d) “What the ides of March begun” Ans

Brutus links the upcoming battle to Caesar’s (a) “Come ho, away!”
assassination on March 15. He suggests their With this rallying call, Brutus ends their
struggle for Rome’s future reaches its climax, conversation and signals that it’s time to move.
finishing what they started by killing Caesar. The phrase highlights his resolve and readiness to
meet the enemy at Philippi.
21. What does Brutus call their farewell?
(a) “A dreadful parting” 25. How does the scene conclude?
(b) “Our final oath” (a) They start feasting
(c) “Everlasting farewell” (b) Brutus prays alone
(d) “One last regret” (c) They exit for battle
(d) Cassius surrenders
Ans
(c) “Everlasting farewell” Ans

Brutus fears they may never meet again, giving (c) They exit for battle
Cassius an “everlasting farewell.” This poignant After exchanging farewells and final strategies,
exchange shows the gravity of the moment, with Brutus, Cassius, and their forces leave the stage,
the possibility of dying on the battlefield. fully prepared for combat. The scene ends on a
decisive note, heading toward the climax.
22. How does Cassius echo Brutus’s words about
parting? 26. “Messala,/This is my birthday, as this very day/
(a) “It breaks my heart” Was Cassius born.”
(b) “The day will decide” Cassius mentions his birthday to _____.
(c) “Farewell, Brutus, forever” (a) celebrate his achievements
(d) “Yes, it was well made” (b) highlight the irony of battle
(c) request a grand feast
Ans
(d) blame Pompey for his troubles
(d) “Yes, it was well made”
Ans
After Brutus speaks of their final goodbye,
Cassius agrees that if they do not meet again, (b) highlight the irony of battle
their farewell was properly done. This mutual Cassius declares it’s his birthday on the very day
acceptance of fate cements their bond. he must fight a decisive battle. This stark contrast
underscores the tragic timing and the high stakes
23. What does Brutus say about knowing the outcome they face.
of the day’s business?
(a) “We shall never know.” 27. “Two mighty eagles fell … This morning are they
(b) “Fate is already sealed.” fled away and gone,/And in their steads do ravens
(c) “None can see the future.” …”
(d) “A man might know.” Cassius sees the disappearance of eagles as a(n)
_____.
Ans
(a) sign of good fortune
(d) “A man might know.” (b) omen of impending defeat
Brutus wishes humans could predict the end (c) confirmation that Rome is safe
result of their actions. However, he concedes that (d) symbol of Antony’s betrayal
they must wait until day’s end to discover their Ans
ultimate fate in battle.
(b) omen of impending defeat

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 119

12. What significant day does Cassius mention? 16. What does Brutus refuse to do if they lose?
(a) The ides of March (a) Surrender arms
(b) Pompey’s defeat (b) Flee to Egypt
(c) His birthday (c) Be led in triumph
(d) Caesar’s crowning (d) Beg for mercy
Ans Ans
(c) His birthday (c) Be led in triumph
Cassius reveals it’s his birthday, remarking on Brutus insists he will never be paraded through
the irony of fighting this pivotal battle on the Rome in chains. It shows his pride and unwavering
anniversary of his birth. It underscores the gravity commitment to honor, even if they ultimately fail
and personal weight of the day. in battle.

13. Which ominous sign troubles Cassius? 17. Which event from Brutus’s past does he reference
(a) Fading stars while discussing suicide?
(b) Eagles replaced by ravens (a) Caesar’s funeral
(c) Thunderous skies (b) Portia’s marriage
(d) Red moon rising (c) Cato’s death
(d) Antony’s betrayal
Ans
(b) Eagles replaced by ravens Ans

Cassius recounts how two eagles perched on their (c) Cato’s death
ensign have flown away, and now ravens and kites Brutus recalls how he criticized Cato for taking
circle overhead. He interprets this as a dire omen his own life. He still finds suicide “cowardly and
for their army. vile,” suggesting he’ll trust fate rather than end
his life to escape defeat.
14. What philosophy did Cassius once hold?
(a) Epicureanism 18. What does Cassius ask about Brutus’s plan if
(b) Stoicism they are defeated?
(c) Platonism (a) “Will you yield?”
(d) Cynicism (b) “Shall we vanish?”
(c) “Shall you hide?”
Ans
(d) “Will you despair?”
(a) Epicureanism
Ans
Cassius used to follow Epicurus, who generally
dismissed omens. But he admits to partly (a) “Will you yield?”
believing these negative portents now, revealing a Cassius specifically wonders if Brutus would ever
shift in his rational views. consent to being taken prisoner. Brutus’s strong
refusal underscores both men’s shared stance they
15. How does Cassius describe his spirit today? would rather die than be humiliated.
(a) “Fresh and resolved”
(b) “Dark and dreary” 19. How does Brutus respond to Cassius’s question
(c) “Lost and confused” about captivity?
(d) “Timid and frantic” (a) “Yes, I surrender.”
(b) “Never, Cassius, never.”
Ans
(c) “We shall see.”
(a) “Fresh and resolved” (d) “Ask again later.”
Despite the bad omens, Cassius insists he remains Ans
courageous. He says he’s prepared to face any (b) “Never, Cassius, never.”
peril “very constantly,” showing determination in
the face of potential defeat. Brutus vehemently denies the possibility of being
shackled in Rome. He declares his pride won’t
allow it, emphasizing the resolute mindset both
leaders have before this final stand.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

Ans (a) 3, 2, 1, 4
(c) birthday (b) 2, 1, 3, 4
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4
On the eve of battle, Cassius notes that fate places
(d) 1, 4, 3, 2
him in peril on his own birthday. This bittersweet
moment heightens the drama, underlining the Ans
personal stakes of war. (c) 1, 3, 2, 4
35. Cassius describes how eagles were replaced by Brutus extols words over violence; Antony
“ravens, crows, and kites,” whose shadows seem rebukes them for Caesar’s killing. Octavius hopes
“A canopy most _____.” to avoid Brutus’s blade, prompting Cassius to
(a) dire scorn Octavius as merely “a peevish schoolboy.”
(b) foul
(c) grim 38. Determine the correct sequence in Octavius’s vow
(d) fatal to avenge Caesar and the conspirators’ response.
1. Octavius draws his sword, refusing to sheathe
Ans it until Caesar’s wounds are avenged.
(d) fatal 2. Brutus insists Caesar cannot die again “unless
thou bring’st him with thee.”
Cassius views the departure of eagles and arrival
3. Octavius calls Brutus and Cassius “traitors.”
of ominous birds as an ill omen, calling their
4. The armies part ways, ready for battle.
presence “fatal.” This superstition reflects his
(a) 3, 2, 1, 4
growing fear about the upcoming battle.
(b) 2, 3, 4, 1
36. Identify the correct progression of Octavius and (c) 1, 3, 2, 4
Antony’s initial disagreement about positioning (d) 1, 2, 4, 3
troops. Ans
1. Antony asks Octavius to lead his forces on
the left. (c) 1, 3, 2, 4
2. A messenger announces the enemy’s approach. Octavius first brandishes his sword, declaring
3. Octavius insists he will take the right. he’ll avenge Caesar. He calls them “traitors,”
4. Antony questions why Octavius is prompting Brutus’s retort about Caesar’s death.
contradicting him. At last, both parties separate, eager to fight.
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4
(b) 1, 3, 2, 4 39. Pick the correct order of Cassius’s ominous
(c) 1, 4, 3, 2 reflections and his conversation with Messala.
(d) 3, 2, 1, 4 1. Cassius reveals it is his birthday.
2. Cassius confesses he once believed Epicurus’s
Ans philosophy.
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 3. He describes ominous birds (ravens, crows,
kites) replacing eagles.
First, the messenger warns of the enemy’s “gallant
4. Messala tries to reassure him, but Cassius
show,” prompting Antony to assign Octavius the
remains uneasy.
left. Octavius then declares he’ll hold the right,
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4
causing Antony to question his defiance.
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4
37. Select the correct order in which Brutus and Cassius (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
exchange verbal barbs with Octavius and Antony. (d) 3, 1, 2, 4
1. Brutus claims “good words are better than Ans
bad strokes.”
2. Octavius says he hopes not to “die on Brutus’ (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
sword.” Cassius first notes his birthday. He recalls his old
3. Antony recalls Caesar’s murder, calling the Epicurean belief before admitting the grim omen
conspirators “flatterers.” of carrion birds overhead. Messala offers hope,
4. Cassius derides Octavius as “a peevish but Cassius remains unsettled.
schoolboy.”

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 121

Cassius describes how eagles once perched 31. At the start, Octavius says, “Now, Antony, our
confidently on their standards, but now only _____ are answered.”
ravens and crows circle overhead, suggesting the (a) foes
army’s doom-a powerful Shakespearean omen of (b) hopes
bad luck. (c) doubts
(d) spies
28. “But since the affairs of men rests still incertain,/
Let’s reason with the worst that may befall.” Ans
By these lines, Cassius suggests they should (b) hopes
_____.
Octavius’s optimism contrasts with Antony’s
(a) flee the battlefield
wariness about Brutus and Cassius’s advance. By
(b) plan for possible defeat
declaring their “hopes” fulfilled, Octavius conveys
(c) ignore any omens
confidence that the enemy has finally taken the
(d) blame Brutus for doubts
expected battlefield position.
Ans
32. Antony claims, “They could be content to
(b) plan for possible defeat visit other places, and come down with fearful
Cassius notes life’s unpredictability and wants _____.”
to brace for the worst outcome. This practical (a) words
approach to adversity contrasts with Brutus’s (b) bravery
more idealistic worldview. (c) threats
(d) marches
29. “If we do meet again, why we shall smile;/If not,
why then this parting was well made.” Ans
Brutus’s farewell to Cassius highlights _____. (b) bravery
(a) his certainty of victory
Antony suggests Brutus and Cassius display
(b) his cold indifference
intimidating bravado“fearful bravery”-to seem
(c) their long-standing enmity
more formidable than they are. He believes this
(d) the possibility of never seeing each other
posturing aims to convince their opponents of
again
great courage.
Ans
(d) the possibility of never seeing each other again 33. Irritated by Octavius’s refusal to follow his plan,
Brutus acknowledges their battle’s lethal risks. Antony demands, “Why do you _____ me in
They exchange a solemn farewell, aware that if this exigent?”
the conflict goes badly, this may be their final (a) test
meeting in life. (b) cross
(c) mock
30. “O, that a man might know/The end of this day’s (d) vex
business ere it come!”
Ans
When Brutus utters these words, he expresses
_____. (b) cross
(a) regret for planning to betray Cassius Antony expects deference from Octavius but finds
(b) a wish to predict his destiny him defiant. By asking why he is “crossed,” Antony
(c) eagerness to flee the coming battle reveals underlying tension between the two leaders,
(d) joy that Caesar’s ghost supports him even while uniting against a common foe.
Ans
34. Cassius acknowledges, “This is my _____; as
(b) a wish to predict his destiny
this very day/Was Cassius born.”
Brutus longs for foresight-to know the outcome (a) duty
“ere it come.” This conveys the anxiety of (b) blessing
heading into an uncertain fight, where fate and (c) birthday
consequence remain murky. (d) fortune

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

they survive the day. combined assault against Octavius’s weakened

(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. flank.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). 49. What phrase signals the start of the battle?
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. (a) “Loud alarum”
(b) “Trumpets call”
Ans (c) “Gongs resound”
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (d) “Horn blast”
Their poignant goodbyes (1) lead directly into Ans
the realization that the coming battle could be (a) “Loud alarum”
their last. That finality (1) spurs their solemn
departure to face uncertain fate (2). The stage direction “Loud alarum” indicates the
sound of battle or the call to arms. It sets a tense
atmosphere, showing how the conflict intensifies
SCENE 2 in this crucial moment.
46. Who appears at the scene’s start?
(a) Brutus and Messala
(b) Antony and Octavius
(c) Cassius and Titinius
50. Which commander’s “cold demeanor” does
(d) Lucius and Pindarus
Brutus observe?
Ans (a) Antony’s
(a) Brutus and Messala (b) Cassius’s
(c) Octavius’s
The stage directions state “Enter Brutus and (d) Lepidus’s
Messala.” They arrive amidst the sounds of
battle (“Alarum”), illustrating the urgency of Ans
the moment as they coordinate plans against (c) Octavius’s
Octavius’s forces.
Brutus notes “But cold demeanor in Octavius’
47. What does Brutus hand Messala? wing.” He believes Octavius’s troops lack spirit or
(a) A sword momentum, thinking a sudden push might defeat
(b) Secret letters them quickly at this critical juncture.
(c) Caesar’s will
51. How does Brutus believe they can achieve victory?
(d) War bills
(a) By lengthy siege
Ans (b) Through stealth at night
(d) War bills (c) With a “sudden push”
(d) By bribing Octavius
Brutus gives Messala “these bills” to deliver to
the legions. These likely contain instructions or Ans
battle orders, emphasizing how Brutus is directing (c) With a “sudden push”
troops quickly during the fight.
Brutus suggests a swift, forceful attack will
48. What action does Brutus urge Messala to do? overturn Octavius. He sees the opportunity for
(a) Pray for Rome a decisive blow, believing momentum can tilt the
(b) Attack alone battle in their favor.
(c) Ride and deliver orders
52. Which word best describes Brutus’s tone?
(d) Surrender to Octavius
(a) Hesitant
Ans (b) Triumphant
(c) Ride and deliver orders (c) Urgent
(d) Apologetic
Brutus repeatedly tells him, “Ride, ride, Messala!”
He wants Messala to hasten, distributing Ans
instructions so their allied forces can launch a (c) Urgent

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 123

40. Identify the correct sequence of Brutus and Ans

Cassius’s farewell before going into battle. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
1. They vow to stand as “lovers in peace” if the
Cassius’s dread of ill omens does not undermine
gods permit.
his will to fight. Though he sees a grim sign, he
2. Cassius asks what Brutus plans if they lose.
separately asserts confidence so the bleak omen
3. Brutus denies any plan to be led in triumph
(1) doesn’t drive his determination (2).
through Rome.
4. They exchange final farewells, resolving to 43. Select the option that shows the correct
fight bravely. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 Statement (1) : Cassius contemplates the possibility
(b) 2, 3, 4, 1 that this battle may be “the very last time we shall
(c) 3, 1, 2, 4 speak together.”
(d) 1, 4, 2, 3 Statement (2) : Brutus refuses to consider suicide,
Ans calling it “cowardly and vile” and trusting fate
instead.
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
They begin hoping the gods favor them. Cassius (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
asks about defeat, and Brutus rejects the idea (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
of surrender. They bid each other a touching (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
farewell, prepared to face the day’s hazards.
Ans
41. Select the option that shows the correct (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Cassius’s reflection on final goodbyes and Brutus’s
Statement (1) : Octavius insists he will command
rejection of self-harm are two distinct reactions to
the right flank, even though Antony told him to
a potential defeat. One man fears parting forever;
take the left.
the other disdains suicide no direct cause-effect
Statement (2) : Antony questions why Octavius
tie exists.
“crosses” him at such a crucial juncture.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. 44. Select the option that shows the correct
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Statement (1) : Cassius asks Brutus if he will “be
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. led in triumph” through Rome if they lose.
Ans Statement (2) : Brutus swears he “will never go
bound to Rome,” declaring his spirit too great for
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). captivity.
Because Octavius chooses the right flank against (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Antony’s directive, Antony wonders why he’s (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
being contradicted. The unexpected defiance (1) (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
directly prompts Antony’s displeased questioning (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
(2).
Ans
42. Select the option that shows the correct (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Cassius’s question about a humiliating captivity
Statement (1) : Cassius observes ravens, crows,
(1) triggers Brutus’s emphatic refusal. By raising
and kites replacing eagles, viewing this omen as
the specter of chains, Cassius elicits Brutus’s firm
a fatal sign.
vow never to submit (2).
Statement (2) : Despite these dark portents,
Cassius remains resolute, declaring he will “meet 45. Select the option that shows the correct
all perils very constantly.” relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. Statement (1) : Brutus and Cassius exchange
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. heartfelt farewells, “Forever and forever farewell.”
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Statement (2) : They leave for the battlefield,
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. acknowledging they may never meet again unless

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

In Shakespeare’s context, “bills” can be written Brutus believes immediate attack can break
military directives. Brutus wants other legions to Octavius’s “cold” line. This urgency underscores
coordinate their strike, indicating these are urgent the theme that swift action can secure advantage,
tactical commands for a unified offensive. reflecting the high stakes on the battlefield.

61. Which word best describes Brutus’s view of 65. Who commands the threatened wing, according
Octavius’s line? to Brutus?
(a) Invincible (a) Antony
(b) Disorganized (b) Octavius
(c) Timid (c) Cassius
(d) Triumphant (d) Lepidus
Ans Ans
(c) Timid (b) Octavius
Brutus calls Octavius’s demeanor “cold,” implying Brutus explicitly mentions “Octavius’ wing.” This
they lack aggression. His hope is that an energetic part of the enemy’s army is apparently vulnerable,
push will overpower what he sees as a timid or and Brutus hopes to capitalize on that perceived
hesitant opposing force. weakness with a direct onslaught.

62. Why does Brutus repeat “Ride, ride, Messala”? 66. Why might Brutus’s perception of Octavius’s
(a) To taunt him “cold demeanor” be flawed?
(b) To emphasize speed (a) Octavius is actually absent
(c) To distract the enemy (b) Octavius has no troops left
(d) To mimic the Messenger (c) Appearances can deceive
(d) Brutus secretly trusts Octavius
Ans
(b) To emphasize speed Ans

Repetition highlights Brutus’s urgency. He (c) Appearances can deceive

knows time is crucial if Messala delivers the bills Brutus may misjudge based on outward signs, not
quickly, their forces can capitalize on Octavius’s knowing Octavius’s true strengths or strategy.
vulnerability before the enemy reorganizes. The battle’s outcome could shift if Brutus relies
solely on that one observation.
63. What type of conflict is being portrayed?
(a) Political debate 67. What does “give these bills unto the legions”
(b) Naval confrontation show about Brutus?
(c) Armed battle (a) He’s lazy
(d) Civil negotiation (b) He’s well-organized
(c) He’s hiding the truth
Ans
(d) He’s mocking Messala
(c) Armed battle
Ans
The words “Alarum” and the presence of armies
indicate open warfare. Brutus is orchestrating (b) He’s well-organized
troop movements, confirming that the scene Brutus personally issues written orders, indicating
revolves around immediate martial action rather methodical planning. Rather than improvising,
than mere diplomacy. he orchestrates coordinated attacks, reflecting an
organized leadership style even under battlefield
64. Which theme surfaces in Brutus’s swift orders? pressure.
(a) Moral guilt
(b) Speed for victory 68. How is the scene’s length significant?
(c) Love and betrayal (a) It emphasizes chaos
(d) Revenge for Caesar (b) It allows a feast
(c) It features a long debate
Ans
(d) It clarifies moral dilemmas
(b) Speed for victory

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 125

He repeatedly commands Messala to ride quickly The stage directions mention “Alarum” and refer
and wants the legions “set on at once.” This sense to armies on the move. Combined with Brutus’s
of urgency reflects Brutus’s recognition that speed concern about Octavius’s forces, it’s clear they’re
is critical in battle. in the midst of the battle at Philippi.

53. What does “alarum” typically signify in 57. Which character does NOT appear in this scene?
Shakespeare? (a) Brutus
(a) Midnight feast (b) Messala
(b) A call to arms (c) Octavius
(c) Royal coronation (d) Cassius
(d) Legal proceedings
Ans
Ans (d) Cassius
(b) A call to arms Only Brutus and Messala physically enter.
“Alarum” refers to the sound or signal that Octavius is mentioned as commanding his
summons soldiers to battle. Here, it underscores wing, but Cassius does not appear here. Brutus
the immediate danger and action swirling around specifically focuses on defeating Octavius at this
Brutus and Messala on the battlefield. critical moment.

54. Why does Brutus believe Octavius’s wing can be 58. What does Brutus believe a swift assault might
overthrown? cause?
(a) They are outnumbered (a) A large retreat
(b) They have no weapons (b) Caesar’s ghost
(c) Their morale is low (c) A new truce
(d) They trust Brutus completely (d) A bigger conflict
Ans Ans
(c) Their morale is low (a) A large retreat
Brutus calls it “cold demeanor,” suggesting the Brutus thinks a sudden onslaught can scatter or
troops lack fighting spirit. He expects that a rout Octavius’s men, forcing them into retreat.
sudden, forceful strike will shatter their resolve He sees an advantage in striking now before they
and secure a swift victory. regain courage or support.

55. What item is Messala supposed to deliver? 59. How does Messala respond to Brutus?
(a) Warnings of retreat (a) He ignores him
(b) Full surrender letters (b) He questions orders
(c) Instruction bills (c) He promptly obeys
(d) Compliments of peace (d) He taunts Octavius
Ans Ans
(c) Instruction bills (c) He promptly obeys
The text says “give these bills/Unto the legions Messala silently accepts the instructions, taking
on the other side.” These documents likely detail the papers Brutus hands him. The stage directions
how and when Brutus’s forces should attack, show no debate, reflecting the disciplined
guiding the entire offense. execution of Brutus’s urgent commands.

60. What do the “bills” likely represent?

56. What is the overall setting of this scene?
(a) A quiet Roman street (a) Invitations to dinner
(b) A festive marketplace (b) Scrolls of Caesar’s praises
(c) The battlefield at Philippi (c) Orders for immediate attack
(d) A Senate meeting (d) Proof of betrayal

Ans Ans

(c) The battlefield at Philippi (c) Orders for immediate attack

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

fits Brutus’s hurry to send orders and launch a Ans

rapid attack on Octavius’s wing. (d) speed

76. Brutus commands Messala to “give these Brutus’s repeated “ride, ride!” underscores how
_____/Unto the legions on the other side!” crucial haste can be. If Messala delivers orders
(a) arms quickly, their scattered legions can unite at once,
(b) bills outmaneuvering the enemy’s slower reactions.
(c) flags
80. Eager to finalize his plan, Brutus exclaims, “Let
(d) swords
them all come _____.”
Ans (a) down
(b) bills (b) round
(c) forth
Brutus hands Messala important written orders (d) near
or “bills”- for their forces positioned elsewhere.
By quickly distributing these instructions, Brutus Ans
hopes to coordinate an immediate, unified attack (a) down
for strategic advantage.
By urging his men to “come down,” Brutus intends
77. Observing Octavius’s flank, Brutus remarks, “But for every available force to converge immediately
cold _____ in Octavius’ wing.” on the battlefield. This massed offensive aims to
(a) spirit overwhelm Octavius’s weakened position.
(b) march
(c) demeanor 81. Identify the correct sequence of Brutus’s
(d) fortune immediate orders to Messala.
1. Brutus hands Messala the bills.
Ans 2. Brutus observes “cold demeanor in Octavius’
(c) demeanor wing.”
Brutus perceives an unenthusiastic or “cold” 3. Brutus insists “sudden push” will overthrow
stance among Octavius’s troops. This observation Octavius.
suggests they might be vulnerable, so Brutus 4. Brutus commands Messala to ride and deliver
urges quick action before Octavius can regain the bills.
momentum. (a) 1, 4, 2, 3
(b) 4, 1, 3, 2
78. Believing swift aggression will succeed, Brutus (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
says, “And sudden push gives them the _____.” (d) 2, 3, 1, 4
(a) might Ans
(b) edge
(c) overthrow (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
(d) fear First, Brutus gives Messala the papers; he then
Ans points out Octavius’s lack of spirit. Next, he
predicts a swift strike will succeed and finally
(c) overthrow orders Messala to deliver his instructions.
Brutus is convinced that a surprise charge will
topple Octavius’s weaker flank. By acting rapidly, 82. Determine the correct order in which Brutus
he aims to capitalize on any hesitation and force perceives and reacts to Octavius’s weakness.
the enemy into retreat. 1. Brutus spots “cold demeanor” in Octavius’s
flank.
79. Brutus’s urgent call-“Ride, ride, Messala!”- 2. Brutus concludes quick aggression can rout
highlights the importance of immediate _____ them.
in battle. 3. Brutus summons Messala to carry orders.
(a) honor 4. Both exit to finalize the attack.
(b) counsel (a) 3, 1, 2, 4
(c) support (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(d) speed

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 127

Ans 72. “Let them set on at once, for I perceive/But cold

(a) It emphasizes chaos demeanor in Octavius’ wing.”
Brutus believes Octavius’s men are _____.
The brief snapshot reflects fast-moving wartime
(a) heavily fortified
pressure. Shakespeare shows a rapid exchange—
(b) lacking in spirit
Brutus’s urgent commands and immediate
(c) feigning weakness
departure mirroring the swiftness and confusion
(d) secretly retreating
of battle events.
Ans
69. Which dramatic device is in use when Brutus and (b) lacking in spirit
Messala exit quickly?
(a) Prologue Brutus calls their manner “cold demeanor,”
(b) Foreshadowing implying Octavius’s soldiers appear unenthusiastic
(c) Cliffhanger exit or vulnerable. He thinks a swift, forceful attack
(d) Deus ex machina can break them before they rally.

Ans 73. “And sudden push gives them the overthrow.”

By these words, Brutus expects that _____.
(c) Cliffhanger exit
(a) Antony’s reinforcements will arrive
They rush off without fully revealing the next (b) a surprise charge will defeat Octavius
move’s result, creating anticipation. The abrupt (c) they should wait for nightfall
exit leaves the audience uncertain about the (d) no fight is necessary
battle’s immediate development, thus building
tension. Ans
(b) a surprise charge will defeat Octavius
Brutus predicts that a swift assault can topple
Octavius’s wing. The phrase “sudden push”
70. What is the final action in this scene?
signals Brutus’s desire to strike fast and seize a
(a) They surrender
tactical advantage.
(b) They exit to fight
(c) They call a truce 74. “Ride, ride, Messala! Let them all come down.”
(d) They argue anew These lines reflect Brutus’s _____.
Ans (a) fear of betrayal
(b) desperation to flee
(b) They exit to fight
(c) urgency to gather his forces
After Brutus’s instructions, he and Messala (d) wish to hold peace talks
depart. The scene ends with them going to battle,
Ans
reflecting the urgency that drives both characters
to engage Octavius’s forces immediately. (c) urgency to gather his forces
Brutus repeats “ride” and commands immediate
71. “Ride, ride, Messala, ride, and give these bills/
mobilization. He wants all allied legions to
Unto the legions on the other side!”
converge quickly, showing a decisive push to
Brutus urges Messala to _____.
exploit the enemy’s supposed weakness.
(a) carry instructions to other troops
(b) defend the camp alone 75. The stage direction “Loud alarum” suggests that
(c) destroy enemy letters _____.
(d) flee from Octavius’s forces (a) a celebratory parade is starting
Ans (b) a truce has been declared
(c) the battle has begun or is imminent
(a) carry instructions to other troops
(d) enemies have decided to retreat
Brutus hands Messala written directives (“bills”)
Ans
and commands him to deliver them across the
battlefield. This urgency shows Brutus’s strategic (c) the battle has begun or is imminent
coordination under the threat of immediate In Shakespeare’s plays, “alarum” indicates signals
conflict. or sounds of conflict. This heightened atmosphere

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

88. Select the option that shows the correct deployment to exploit Octavius’s fragile state.
relationship between statements (1) and (2). One signals battle readiness; the other seizes a
Statement (1) : Brutus orders Messala to “Ride, tactical advantage.
ride” and deliver instructions for a synchronized
attack.
Statement (2) : Brutus says, “Let them all come SCENE 3
down,” aiming to unify every available legion for
the battle. 91. Whom does Cassius call “villains”?
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. (a) His fleeing soldiers
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. (b) Antony’s troops
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (c) Brutus’s men
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. (d) Pindarus and Titinius
Ans Ans
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (a) His fleeing soldiers
Brutus dispatches Messala to coordinate the Cassius sees his own standard-bearer retreating
legions (1), prompting the collective move to and exclaims, “the villains fly!” He’s furious that
converge on the battlefield (2). This unification his soldiers are running from battle. He even kills
stems from delivering the orders to each unit. the cowardly ensign and takes his flag.

89. Select the option that shows the correct 92. What caused Cassius to turn against his own side?
relationship between statements (1) and (2). (a) Betrayal by Titinius
Statement (1) : Brutus predicts that swift (b) A soldier retreated
aggression will overpower Octavius’s flank. (c) Lack of bribes
Statement (2) : Brutus’s command “Let them set (d) Fear of Antony
on at once” signals an immediate offensive. Ans
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. (b) A soldier retreated
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Cassius laments, “Myself have to mine own turned
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. enemy,” after slaying his standard-bearer for
Ans running away. The soldier’s retreat leads Cassius
to use deadly force against one of his own men.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Because Brutus sees Octavius’s vulnerability, he 93. Why does Titinius say Brutus gave the word too
calls for an instant strike. The anticipation of an early?
easy victory (1) triggers the direct order to attack (a) He wanted glory
at once (2). (b) He misread signals
(c) He saw an advantage
90. Select the option that shows the correct (d) He panicked and fled
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Statement (1) : The alarum sounds, indicating Ans
the battle’s onset. (c) He saw an advantage
Statement (2) : Brutus insists Messala hurry, Titinius claims Brutus noticed “some advantage
hoping a rapid move will capitalize on Octavius’s on Octavius” and attacked too eagerly. In doing
weak position. so, Brutus’s men stopped to loot, leaving Cassius
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. vulnerable to Antony’s surrounding forces.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). 94. According to Titinius, who encloses Cassius’s
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. forces?
Ans (a) Lepidus
(b) Brutus
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
(c) Antony
The alarm simply marks the general start (d) Caesar’s ghost
of hostilities. Separately, Brutus urges a fast

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(c) 2, 1, 3, 4 3. Brutus urges immediate engagement to

(d) 2, 3, 1, 4 exploit Octavius’s cold front.
4. Both depart, ready to unite their forces.
Ans
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
Noticing Octavius’s waning confidence, Brutus (c) 2, 3, 1, 4
deduces that a sudden assault could topple them. (d) 1, 3, 2, 4
He instructs Messala to spread the word, and they Ans
exit, poised to exploit the enemy’s vulnerability.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4
83. Choose the correct progression of stage actions in First, Brutus hands the directives to Messala, then
this short scene. instructs him to engage the legions immediately.
1. Alarum sounds. Recognizing Octavius’s frailty, Brutus finalizes his
2. Brutus instructs Messala to ride with the plan. They exit to coordinate the decisive blow.
bills.
86. Select the option that shows the correct
3. Brutus observes weakness in Octavius’s wing.
4. They exit to launch the offensive. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(a) 1, 2, 4, 3 Statement (1) : Brutus instructs Messala to deliver
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4 written orders (“bills”) to the other legions.
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 Statement (2) : Brutus immediately notes “cold
(d) 2, 1, 4, 3 demeanor in Octavius’ wing” on the battlefield.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Ans (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
The scene opens with a warlike alarum. Brutus
immediately notes Octavius’s failing spirit, orders Ans
Messala to deliver his written commands, then (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
both leave to coordinate an all-out strike.
Brutus’s decision to send orders focuses on
coordinating troops, while his observation about
84. Pick the correct order of Brutus’s key lines about
Octavius’s flank concerns the enemy’s weakness.
the enemy’s vulnerability and his plan.
These actions address different needs and do not
1. “But cold demeanor in Octavius’ wing.”
directly influence each other.
2. “Ride, ride, Messala!”
3. “And sudden push gives them the overthrow.”
4. “Let them all come down.”
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4 87. Select the option that shows the correct
(b) 2, 1, 4, 3 relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(c) 1, 4, 3, 2 Statement (1) : Brutus sees Octavius’s forces
(d) 2, 3, 1, 4 displaying “cold demeanor.”
Ans Statement (2) : Brutus believes a quick “sudden
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4 push” can overthrow Octavius’s wing.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Brutus first notes Octavius’s shaky morale, (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
foresees a swift attack succeeding, then spurs (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Messala to ride quickly and summons every (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
legion. His urgent commands frame the entire
plan of attack. Ans
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
85. Select the correct sequence of events and exits Spotting hesitation or weak morale in Octavius’s
concluding Scene 2. ranks motivates Brutus to launch an immediate
1. Brutus entrusts tactical “bills” to Messala. assault. Because (1) reveals the enemy’s
2. Messala is told “Let them set on at once.” vulnerability, Brutus seizes that opportunity (2).

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

(c) The same sword that killed Caesar (c) He met allies, not foes
(d) One taken from an enemy (d) Brutus’s army deserted
Ans Ans
(c) The same sword that killed Caesar (c) He met allies, not foes
Cassius explicitly says, “That ran through Titinius arrives with victory wreath in hand,
Caesar’s bowels” before handing it to Pindarus. shocked to find Cassius dead. The men surrounding
This grim irony underlines the cyclical nature of him were actually friends celebrating success, not
violence Caesar’s killer dies by the same blade. enemies—a misinterpretation that cost Cassius’s
life.
103. What is Cassius’s final plea to Pindarus?
(a) “Guide thou the sword.” 107. Why does Titinius blame Cassius’s death on
(b) “Return to your home.” “mistrust”?
(c) “Stay and fight.” (a) Cassius suspected Brutus
(d) “Find help quickly.” (b) Cassius expected betrayal
Ans (c) Cassius feared Pompey’s ghost
(d) Cassius doubted Caesar was dead
(a) “Guide thou the sword.”
Cassius covers his face and orders Pindarus to Ans
fulfill his oath—he must stab Cassius. This tragic (b) Cassius expected betrayal
scene reveals Cassius’s desperation and Pindarus’s Titinius calls it “mistrust of [my] success,”
forced duty as a prisoner-turned-executioner. meaning Cassius misunderstood the triumph as
104. How does Cassius view Caesar in his final words? defeat. This emotional error, spurred by fear, led
(a) As a legend to a fatal decision, highlighting the tragedy of
(b) As a friend misjudgment.
(c) As avenged
(d) As a distant memory 108. How does Titinius respond to Cassius’s suicide?
(a) He swears revenge
Ans (b) He kills himself
(c) As avenged (c) He surrenders to Antony
(d) He blames Pindarus
Cassius’s last cry is, “Caesar, thou art revenged,”
acknowledging Caesar’s spirit triumphing over Ans
him. Dying by Caesar’s sword suggests that the (b) He kills himself
murder has come full circle.
In despair, Titinius places the victory wreath
105. What does Pindarus plan after Cassius’s death? on Cassius’s brow and exclaims, “By your leave,
(a) Serve Brutus gods, this is a Roman’s part.” He then stabs
(b) Pledge loyalty to Antony himself with Cassius’s sword.
(c) Flee far away
(d) Fight Octavius 109. What does Messala depart to tell Brutus?
(a) To flee the field
Ans (b) The arrival of Caesar’s ghost
(c) Flee far away (c) Cassius and Titinius are dead
(d) Antony surrendered
Pindarus vows to “run/Where never Roman shall
take note.” He never wished to kill Cassius but Ans
was bound by oath, so he escapes to avoid further (c) Cassius and Titinius are dead
repercussions.
Messala says he must “thrust this report” into
106. What mistaken belief does Titinius reveal upon Brutus’s ears, comparing the news to a grievous
return? wound. He knows the horrific double suicide will
(a) He was captured be devastating for their cause.
(b) He was betrayed

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Ans (c) Shoot arrows at enemies

(c) Antony (d) Wave a white flag
Titinius explains that while Brutus fought Ans
Octavius, “we by Antony are all enclosed.” (b) Watch Titinius’s progress
Antony’s successful maneuver traps Cassius,
revealing how the battle’s tide has turned against Cassius’s vision is poor, so he orders Pindarus
them. to climb higher and “tell me what thou not’st.”
Pindarus must observe Titinius’s fate and report
95. What alarming news does Pindarus deliver? accurately back to Cassius.
(a) Caesar is alive 99. What day does Cassius say he was born on?
(b) Antony controls Cassius’s tents (a) The ides of March
(c) Brutus wants parley (b) This very day
(d) Octavius is captured (c) Caesar’s coronation
Ans (d) A stormy eve
(b) Antony controls Cassius’s tents Ans
Pindarus rushes in, urging Cassius to “fly far (b) This very day
off,” because Antony has seized Cassius’s camp. Cassius remarks, “This day I breathed first,”
This news further confirms the danger and chaos meaning it’s his birthday. Ironically, he suspects
threatening Cassius’s position. his life will end where it began, highlighting the
scene’s tragic undercurrent.
96. Which location does Cassius judge “far enough”
to observe? 100. How does Pindarus describe Titinius’s situation?
(a) A nearby river (a) “Safe among friends.”
(b) A distant hill (b) “Trapped by horsemen.”
(c) The Roman Senate (c) “Gloriously victorious.”
(d) A deserted temple (d) “Negotiating a truce.”
Ans Ans
(b) A distant hill (b) “Trapped by horsemen.”
Cassius says, “This hill is far enough,” where he From his vantage point, Pindarus sees men
can watch what happens. From there, he orders surrounding Titinius, exclaiming “He’s ta’en.”
Titinius and Pindarus to investigate friend or foe The shouts of joy mislead Cassius into thinking
without immediately risking his life. Titinius is captured by enemies, triggering despair.

101. What does Cassius call himself for living “so

97. Why does Cassius send Titinius to the troops?
(a) To surrender long”?
(b) To spy on them (a) “A blessed man”
(c) To request peace (b) “A happy fool”
(d) To bring Caesar’s body (c) “A coward”
(d) “A cunning fox”
Ans
Ans
(b) To spy on them
(c) “A coward”
Cassius wants to know if the troops are “friend
or enemy.” He instructs Titinius to ride there and Overcome by guilt, he laments, “0, coward that
return with confirmation so Cassius can decide I am,” for witnessing Titinius “ta’en before my
his next move. face.” Cassius believes he has failed in protecting
his dearest friend.
98. What does Cassius tell Pindarus to do atop the
hill? 102. Which sword does Cassius use for his own death?
(a) Sing a victory song (a) The sword from Pompey
(b) Watch Titinius’s progress (b) A borrowed Roman spear

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Mistakenly thinking Titinius is taken by enemies, 121. When Cassius realizes Titinius is surrounded, he
Cassius feels guilt and hopelessness. His despair exclaims, “O, coward that I am to live so long/
leads him to command Pindarus to kill him with To see my best friend _____ before my face!”
the same sword used on Caesar. (a) lost
(b) taken
118. “But Cassius is no more. (c) fallen
… The sun of Rome is set.” (d) wounded
Titinius’s words convey _____.
(a) relief that Rome is freed Ans
(b) scorn for Cassius’s cowardice (b) taken
(c) the sense of a great Roman hero fallen
Cassius believes Titinius is captured by
(d) a hidden plan to resurrect Cassius
enemy horsemen. Convinced of this defeat, his
Ans despair leads him to end his life, showing how
(c) the sense of a great Roman hero fallen misinterpretation triggers a tragic chain of events.
Calling Cassius “the sun of Rome” and lamenting 122. Cassius tells Pindarus, “Now be a freeman, and
his death reflects Titinius’s view that Cassius with this good _____,/That ran through
was a vital figure, and his demise signifies a dark Caesar’s bowels, search this bosom.”
turning point for their cause. (a) sword
(b) dagger
119. “Come, Cassius’ sword, and find Titinius’ heart!”
(c) spear
Titinius’s final action demonstrates _____.
(d) arrow
(a) cowardice in the face of war
(b) betrayal of Brutus Ans
(c) self-sacrificial loyalty (a) sword
(d) longing for power
Cassius instructs Pindarus to kill him with
Ans the same blade used against Caesar. This grim
(c) self-sacrificial loyalty parallel underscores Cassius’s belief that Caesar’s
spirit is still a powerful, vengeful force.
Believing Cassius died due to a misunderstanding,
Titinius kills himself with Cassius’s sword. This 123. On finding Cassius’s body, Titinius cries, “Alas,
act underscores his profound devotion, as he thou hast _____ everything.”
cannot endure living without his friend. (a) spoiled
(b) misconstrued
120. “O Julius Caesar, thou art mighty yet;
(c) rued
Thy spirit walks abroad and turns our swords
(d) ignored
In our own proper entrails.”
Brutus implies Caesar’s influence remains strong Ans
because _____. (b) misconstrued
(a) Caesar has returned from the dead
Titinius discovers Cassius misunderstood the
(b) Caesar’s ghost haunts them visibly
friendly shouting as an enemy victory. That tragic
(c) they die by the same weapons meant for
error drives Cassius to suicide, illustrating the heavy
Caesar
cost of misinterpretation in wartime confusion.
(d) Antony forces them to worship Caesar’s
memory 124. Seeing Cassius and Titinius both dead, Brutus
Ans laments, “Thy spirit walks abroad and turns our
_____/In our own proper entrails.”
(c) they die by the same weapons meant for
(a) hearts
Caesar
(b) shields
Brutus sees Cassius and Titinius’s suicides as (c) swords
further proof that Caesar’s power endures. Their (d) legs
own blades, once used against Caesar, now bring
Ans
about their tragic ends.
(c) swords

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110. What does Brutus lament about Caesar’s power? 114. Where does Brutus instruct they move Cassius’s
(a) “He shows no force.” body?
(b) “Thy spirit walks abroad.” (a) Rome’s main temple
(c) “He blesses us from above.” (b) To Thasos
(d) “He still sleeps in Rome.” (c) The Tiber River
(d) Caesar’s tomb
Ans
(b) “Thy spirit walks abroad.” Ans

On seeing Cassius and Titinius dead, Brutus (b) To Thasos

cries, “0 Julius Caesar, thou art mighty yet.” He Brutus orders, “Come, therefore, and to Thasos
believes Caesar’s spirit influences events, turning send his body,” removing Cassius’s corpse from
their own weapons inward. the battlefield. This ensures the army isn’t
demoralized by a funeral in their midst.
111. How does Brutus describe Cassius and Titinius?
(a) “The greatest traitors.” 115. What does Brutus plan to do before nightfall?
(b) “Two cunning spies.” (a) Negotiate peace
(c) “More vile than ever.” (b) Erect a monument
(d) “Romans living such as these.” (c) Try their fortune in a second fight
(d) Honor Caesar’s memory
Ans
(d) “Romans living such as these.” Ans

Brutus marvels at their nobility, calling Cassius (c) Try their fortune in a second fight
“the last of all the Romans.” He praises their Brutus declares “’Tis three o’clock… yet ere
courage and loyalty, emphasizing the depth of loss night/We shall try fortune in a second fight.”
their deaths represent. He’s resolved to continue battling, showing his
unwavering commitment despite devastating
112. What does Brutus vow to find for Cassius? losses.
(a) A grand monument
116. “Myself have to mine own turned enemy.
(b) Time to grieve properly
(c) A golden tribute This ensign here of mine was turning back;
(d) Caesar’s final letter I slew the coward…”
These lines show that Cassius _____.
Ans (a) regrets his harsh nature
(b) Time to grieve properly (b) kills his own soldier for fleeing
(c) forgives the fearful ensign
Brutus admits he owes “more tears” to Cassius
(d) abandons the battlefield
than he can pay at present. He says, “I shall find
time, Cassius,” promising that once the fighting Ans
ends, he will properly mourn. (b) kills his own soldier for fleeing
113. Why does Brutus decide not to hold Cassius’s Cassius admits he slew his standard-bearer who
funeral in their camp? attempted to retreat, calling him a “coward.”
(a) Lack of priests This highlights Cassius’s unwavering resolve, even
(b) No time to bury to the point of harming his own men.
(c) It might lower morale
117. “O, coward that I am to live so long/To see my
(d) Out of superstition
best friend ta’en before my face!”
Ans Cassius decides to end his life because he _____.
(c) It might lower morale (a) learns Brutus betrayed him
(b) believes Titinius is captured
Brutus says, “His funerals shall not be in our
(c) fears Antony’s strength
camp/Lest it discomfort us.” Holding a funeral
(d) wants to surrender to Octavius
now could sap the soldiers’ fighting spirit, so he’ll
send the body away. Ans
(b) believes Titinius is captured

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4. Brutus exits with his men to prepare for 133. Select the option that shows the correct
another battle. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 Statement (1) : Cassius believes their tents are
(b) 1, 3, 2, 4 on fire and sees the surrounding foes as proof of
(c) 2, 4, 3, 1 imminent defeat.
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2 Statement (2) : Cassius surrenders hope, calling
himself a “coward” for witnessing Titinius’s
Ans
supposed capture.
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Brutus expresses grief over Cassius but cannot (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
mourn fully in the midst of war. He orders (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Cassius’s body removed for burial, determines to (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
fight again soon, and departs to re-engage. Ans
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
131. Select the option that shows the correct
relationship between statements (1) and (2). Seeing his burning encampment and “enclosed”
Statement (1) : Pindarus mistakes Titinius’s state, Cassius assumes utter disaster. These dire
friendly welcome as an enemy capture. perceptions (1) lead him to condemn himself as a
Statement (2) : Believing Titinius is taken, coward for continuing to live (2).
Cassius requests Pindarus to kill him with the 134. Select the option that shows the correct
same sword used against Caesar. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. Statement (1) : Messala reveals that Octavius
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. is overthrown by Brutus’s forces, while Antony
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). routs Cassius’s.
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. Statement (2) : Cassius’s misinterpretation of
Ans these mixed outcomes spurs his fatal choice before
discovering Antony’s victory is not universal.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Cassius’s suicide results directly from Pindarus’s (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
misreport. Convinced Titinius is captured, Cassius (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
abandons hope and asks Pindarus to use the same (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
fatal blade, echoing Caesar’s earlier death.
Ans
132. Select the option that shows the correct (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Statement (1) : Titinius had actually been greeted Conflicting news—Octavius losing and Cassius
by allied horsemen who placed a victory wreath losing—creates confusion. Cassius focuses on
on him. Antony’s triumph rather than Brutus’s success,
Statement (2) : After finding Cassius dead, propelling him toward suicide, unaware of the
Titinius blames “mistrust of good success” for the partial nature of defeat.
tragedy and kills himself. 135. Select the option that shows the correct
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. Statement (1) : Upon arriving, Brutus laments,
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). “O Julius Caesar, thou art mighty yet,” as Cassius
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. and Titinius both lie dead.
Ans Statement (2) : Brutus orders Cassius’s body
taken to Thasos for burial, vowing they will
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
continue the fight that same day.
Because Titinius was actually safe and celebrated, (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Cassius’s fatal misunderstanding led to his suicide. (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
Finding Cassius dead from that error, Titinius (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
despairs and follows him in death. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.

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Brutus believes Caesar’s spirit lives on, causing Cassius cries out in despair over Titinius’s
Romans to turn their own weapons inward. This supposed capture, gives his sword to Pindarus,
highlights the theme of Caesar’s lingering power, who then delivers the fatal blow. Free of bondage,
even after his physical death. Pindarus immediately flees, sorrowing over
Cassius’s end.
125. Paying tribute to Cassius, Brutus calls him “the
last of all the _____,” insisting Rome can never 128. Determine the correct sequence of Titinius’s
breed his equal again. realization and his own tragic action.
(a) Romans 1. Titinius discovers Cassius dead.
(b) heroes 2. Titinius curses Cassius’s “misconstrued
(c) soldiers everything.”
(d) patriots 3. Titinius places the victory wreath on Cassius’s
Ans brow.
4. Titinius kills himself with Cassius’s sword.
(a) Romans
(a) 1, 4, 2, 3
Brutus’s phrase “the last of all the Romans” (b) 2, 3, 4, 1
reverently honors Cassius as a paragon of Roman (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
virtue. Despite their conflicts, Brutus recognizes (d) 3, 1, 2, 4
Cassius’s courage and commitment to their cause.
Ans
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
126. Identify the correct sequence of Cassius’s tragic
misunderstanding regarding Titinius. After Titinius sees Cassius’s corpse, he bemoans
1. Cassius believes Titinius is captured. their cruel misunderstanding, sets the garland on
2. Cassius sends Titinius to check whether Cassius, and finally uses the same sword for his
troops are friend or foe. own suicide-an emblematic display of loyalty.
3. Pindarus mistakenly reports Titinius’s capture.
129. Select the correct order in which Brutus and his
4. Cassius despairs and asks Pindarus to kill
him. men discover Cassius and Titinius.
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4 1. They see Titinius lying beside Cassius.
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4 2. Brutus laments “O Julius Caesar, thou art
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 mighty yet.”
(d) 2, 4, 1, 3 3. Messala directs Brutus to the place where
Cassius lies.
Ans 4. Brutus declares Cassius “the last of all the
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4 Romans.”
(a) 3, 1, 2, 4
Cassius first sends Titinius to investigate friendly
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3
or hostile forces. Pindarus incorrectly relays his
(c) 2, 4, 3, 1
capture, leading Cassius to the false conclusion
(d) 1, 3, 2, 4
Titinius is lost, prompting his own suicide.
Ans
127. Choose the order in which Cassius takes his life (a) 3, 1, 2, 4
and Pindarus departs. Messala points out Cassius’s body; Brutus notices
1. Cassius hands his sword to Pindarus. Titinius also slain. He mourns Caesar’s lingering
2. Pindarus fulfills Cassius’s fatal command. power in their self-inflicted deaths, then hails
3. Cassius laments seeing his best friend “ta’en” Cassius as “the last of all the Romans.”
before his face.
4. Pindarus, now free, flees the scene. 130. Identify the correct sequence of Brutus’s final
(a) 3, 1, 4, 2 directives after discovering the double tragedy.
(b) 3, 1, 2, 4 1. Brutus sends Cassius’s body away for funeral
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 arrangements.
(d) 2, 1, 3, 4 2. Brutus pays brief tribute to Cassius but notes
he owes more tears.
Ans
3. Brutus vows to continue the fight before
(b) 3, 1, 2, 4 nightfall.

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143. How does Lucilius initially respond when seized interest, and he insists on searching to confirm
by a soldier? Brutus’s actual fate.
(a) He bribes them with gold
(b) He begs for mercy 147. What does Lucilius say about Brutus never being
(c) He pretends to yield only to death taken alive?
(d) He reveals Antony’s location (a) “He would sooner flee.”
(b) “Noble Brutus shall not yield.”
Ans (c) “He surrenders to none.”
(c) He pretends to yield only to death (d) “He is already slain.”
Lucilius offers money, saying “Only I yield to die.” Ans
He daringly invites them to kill Brutus (actually (b) “Noble Brutus shall not yield.”
himself in disguise), wanting the enemy to think
they’ve captured Brutus. Lucilius proclaims that no enemy will ever see
Brutus bound and alive. He trusts Brutus’s honor
144. What does the First Soldier call Lucilius when he and courage, implying Brutus would choose death
realizes it’s not Brutus? over the shame of capture.
(a) “A lying scoundrel!”
(b) “A noble prisoner!” 148. According to Lucilius, how will Brutus be found?
(c) “A worthless spy!” (a) “Like a beaten dog.”
(d) “A wretched traitor!” (b) “Like a god among men.”
(c) “Like himself.”
Ans (d) “Like a wounded lion.”
(b) “A noble prisoner!” Ans
The soldier’s words-“A noble prisoner!”-reflect (c) “Like himself.”
respect for Lucilius’s courage. Even in defeat,
Lucilius’s bravery and loyalty to Brutus earn him Lucilius insists Brutus will remain true to his own
an unexpected honor from his captors. noble character. Whether alive or dead, Brutus
keeps his dignity, showing how revered he is by
145. What do the soldiers announce to Antony upon loyal followers like Lucilius.
his arrival?
(a) “Cato is alive!” 149. What does Antony realize about the “Brutus”
(b) “Rome is aflame!” they captured?
(c) “Brutus is ta’en!” (a) It’s actually Octavius
(d) “Octavius is dead!” (b) It’s Lucilius in disguise
Ans (c) It’s Caesar’s ghost
(d) It’s young Cato
(c) “Brutus is ta’en!”
Ans
They think they’ve captured Brutus, triumphantly
shouting “Brutus is ta’en!” However, Lucilius has (b) It’s Lucilius in disguise
tricked them. Antony soon realizes it isn’t Brutus Antony immediately recognizes this is not Brutus
but someone pretending to be him. and calls him “a prize no less in worth.” Lucilius’s
ruse fails to fool Antony, but Antony still respects
146. How does Antony respond upon hearing Brutus is his bravery.
“safe enough”?
(a) He rejoices loudly 150. How does Antony regard Lucilius after unmasking
(b) He demands Brutus be killed him?
(c) He demands to see him (a) “Take him away and kill him.”
(d) He shrugs with indifference (b) “I had rather have such men my friends.”
Ans (c) “Whip him through the streets.”
(d) “He is useless to us.”
(c) He demands to see him
Ans
Once Antony arrives, he asks, “Where is he?” The
mention of Brutus being “safe enough” piques his (b) “I had rather have such men my friends.”

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 137

Ans (c) “I am king of Rome!”

(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. (d) “I am no Roman!”
While Brutus grieves Cassius’s tragic end- Ans
attributing it poetically to Caesar’s posthumous (b) “I am the son of Marcus Cato!”
influence-he separately decides to remove the
Young Cato shouts his lineage (“I am the son of
body offsite and press on with battle plans. These
Marcus Cato, ho!”), demonstrating pride in his
developments are not causally linked.
father’s legacy. He declares he’s “a foe to tyrants,”
echoing his family’s Republican ideals.
SCENE 4
140. Why does Cato say he’ll “proclaim [his] name
136. Who enters at the scene’s start? about the field”?
(a) Brutus, Messala, Cato, Lucilius, Flavius (a) He seeks glory
(b) Antony, Octavius, Lepidus (b) He wants safe passage
(c) Cassius, Titinius, Pindarus (c) He hopes to frighten enemies
(d) Young Cato, Portia, Caesar (d) He aims to rally his side
Ans Ans
(a) Brutus, Messala, Cato, Lucilius, Flavius (d) He aims to rally his side
The stage directions read “Alarum. Enter Brutus, Young Cato’s goal is to encourage his fellow
Messala, Cato, Lucilius, and Flavius.” This signals Romans. By loudly identifying himself as “Cato’s
that these five take the field, readying themselves son,” he tries to embolden the troops and affirm
in the midst of the battle’s chaos. his fight against tyrants.

137. What does Brutus urge his “countrymen” to do?

(a) “Run to safety!”
(b) “Yield to Octavius!”
(c) “Hold up your heads!” 141. Who pretends to be Brutus during the fight?
(d) “Show no mercy!” (a) Messala
(b) Lucilius
Ans
(c) Flavius
(c) “Hold up your heads!” (d) Antony
Brutus calls out, “Yet, countrymen, O, yet hold Ans
up your heads!” to rally the troops. He wants
(b) Lucilius
them to stay brave and maintain morale, even as
the battle intensifies. Lucilius shouts, “And I am Brutus, Marcus
Brutus, I!” He deliberately impersonates Brutus
138. Which characters quickly exit after Brutus’s so that any captors mistake him for the real
rallying cry? general, hoping to protect Brutus from being
(a) Antony, Cato, and Cassius taken.
(b) Brutus, Messala, and Flavius
(c) Lucilius, Cassius, and Titinius 142. Which character dies onstage in this scene?
(d) Cato, Flavius, and Lucilius (a) Young Cato
(b) Lucilius
Ans
(c) Antony
(b) Brutus, Messala, and Flavius (d) Flavius
The text specifies “[Brutus, Messala, and Flavius Ans
exit],” leaving Cato and Lucilius behind. This exit
shows Brutus moving elsewhere on the battlefield (a) Young Cato
to coordinate more of the fight. The text notes “Cato is killed” while fighting
soldiers. He courageously announces his name
139. What does young Cato proclaim about himself? and cause but is slain soon after, reflecting the
(a) “I am Caesar’s heir!” tragedy and cost of war.
(b) “I am the son of Marcus Cato!”

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225. Select the option that shows the correct (iv) How does Octavius’s observation reflect the
relationship between statements (1) and (2). theme of action and reaction in the play?
Statement (1) : Messala asks Strato how Brutus What does this reveal about the strategic
died, learning that Brutus “did run on” the sword. complexities of the battle at Philippi?
Statement (2) : Octavius takes Strato into service, (v) Do you think Octavius’s confidence in this
acknowledging his role in giving Brutus “the moment is warranted?
latest service.” Support your answer with reference to the
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. situation and the characters’ actions in the
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. play.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Ans
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
(i) “Now, Antony, our hopes are answered” means
Ans that Octavius believes their expectations of
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). confronting the enemy directly have been
After Strato reveals how he assisted Brutus’s final fulfilled.
act (1), Octavius values his loyalty and enlists “The enemy would not come down but keep
him (2). Sharing the details of Brutus’s death the hills and upper regions” reflects Antony’s
leads directly to Strato’s new position. earlier belief that Brutus and Cassius would
avoid descending to the plains, preferring a
defensive position.
“They mean to warn us at Philippi here,
EXTRACT BASED QUESTION answering before we do demand of them”
suggests that Brutus and Cassius have taken
the initiative to engage in battle, surprising
SCENE 1 Antony and Octavius with their assertiveness.
(ii) This moment reflects the strategic tension
1. Read the following extract and answer the
between Antony and Octavius, as Octavius
questions that follow:
points out a miscalculation in Antony’s
Octavius:
expectations, hinting at differences in their
Now, Antony, our hopes are answered.
leadership styles.
You said the enemy would not come down
Octavius’s tone reveals his confidence and
But keep the hills and upper regions.
satisfaction in the enemy’s decision to
It proves not so; their battles are at hand.
engage, suggesting he feels prepared for the
They mean to warn us at Philippi here,
confrontation.
ing before we do demand of them.
This moment foreshadows the imminent clash
(i) What does Octavius mean by “Now, Antony,
between the armies, marking a turning point
our hopes are answered”?
in the conflict between the conspirators and
What does “the enemy would not come down
the triumvirate.
but keep the hills and upper regions” suggest
(iii) This extract highlights the shifting dynamics
about Antony’s earlier expectations?
between Antony and Octavius, as Octavius
Explain “They mean to warn us at Philippi
asserts his perspective and challenges
here, answering before we do demand of
Antony’s earlier assumptions.
them.”
Earlier moments, such as Antony’s dismissive
(ii) How does this moment reflect the strategic
attitude toward Octavius’s opinions and their
tension between Antony and Octavius?
differing views on Lepidus, foreshadow their
What does Octavius’s tone reveal about his
contrasting approaches to leadership and
confidence in their position?
strategy.
How does this moment foreshadow the
(iv) Octavius’s observation reflects the theme of
upcoming confrontation?
action and reaction, as the decision of Brutus
(iii) How does this extract highlight the shifting
and Cassius to engage first disrupts Antony
dynamics between Antony and Octavius as
and Octavius’s strategic expectations.
leaders?
This reveals the complexities of the battle at
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow
Philippi, where each side must adapt quickly
their differing approaches to strategy?

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Antony admires Lucilius’s loyalty and courage, Lucilius refuses to reveal Brutus’s location.
saying he’d prefer men of such honor as allies. Instead, he prays the gods shield Brutus from
Instead of punishing Lucilius harshly, Antony shame, demonstrating the unwavering loyalty he
orders that he be treated kindly. has for his general’s honor and safety.

151. What does Antony command the soldiers to do 155. What does young Cato’s death parallel from
with Lucilius? earlier in the play?
(a) Execute him at once (a) Portia’s bravery
(b) Keep him safe (b) Cassius’s victory
(c) Send him home (c) Titinius’s downfall
(d) Burn him as a traitor (d) The conspirators’ oath
Ans Ans
(b) Keep him safe (c) Titinius’s downfall
Antony explicitly says, “Keep this man safe” Like Titinius, young Cato fights valiantly and
and “Give him all kindness.” Antony respects dies on the battlefield. Both are loyal allies who
Lucilius’s steadfast spirit, deeming him valuable meet tragic ends in quick succession, reinforcing
for his bravery rather than an enemy to punish. how the war claims even the most devoted.

152. Which statement captures Antony’s idea of 156. Why might Lucilius have impersonated Brutus?
Lucilius as a “prize no less in worth”? (a) He wanted personal glory
(a) Lucilius is a cunning spy (b) He intended to kill Antony
(b) Lucilius is equal to Brutus in nobility (c) He sought to trick the enemy
(c) Lucilius is unimportant in war (d) He hoped to escape punishment
(d) Lucilius must be exiled immediately
Ans
Ans
(c) He sought to trick the enemy
(b) Lucilius is equal to Brutus in nobility
By posing as Brutus, Lucilius aims to distract the
Antony calls Lucilius “a prize no less in worth,” enemy, letting the real Brutus remain free. His
underscoring he sees similar valor in Lucilius that plan almost succeeds until Antony arrives and
Brutus holds. Antony values courageous integrity realizes this captive isn’t Brutus.
and sees it in Lucilius too.

153. What does Antony tell the soldiers to do next? 157. What aspect of Roman values does young Cato’s
(a) Return to Rome final stand highlight?
(b) Search for Cato’s body (a) Fear of death
(c) Find Brutus’s whereabouts (b) Greed for wealth
(d) Guard Caesar’s tomb (c) Proud family honor
(d) Indifference to war
Ans
Ans
(c) Find Brutus’s whereabouts
(c) Proud family honor
Antony orders, “See whe’er Brutus be alive or
dead.” He wants confirmation of Brutus’s status He announces himself as “the son of Marcus
and expects a report in Octavius’s tent, showing Cato,” linking identity to familial legacy. His
they still view Brutus as the key opponent. unwavering bravery in shouting his name and
fighting underscores Rome’s high regard for
154. What does Lucilius pray for regarding Brutus? ancestral pride.
(a) “The gods defend him.”
(b) “Let him flee now.” 158. How does Antony view men who display loyalty
(c) “Hail him as king.” like Lucilius?
(d) “Imprison him swiftly.” (a) They are criminals
Ans (b) They are worthless braggarts
(c) They are future allies
(a) “The gods defend him.” (d) They are threats to his life

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

Ans 162. “And I am Brutus, Marcus Brutus, I!”

(c) They are future allies Lucilius shouts this because he _____.
(a) has captured Brutus
Antony believes courageous loyalty can be
(b) wants to surrender
redirected to serve him well. By treating Lucilius
(c) impersonates Brutus to shield him
kindly, he shows a pragmatic approach-valuing
(d) rejects Brutus’s authority
strong, honorable men as potential supporters
rather than enemies. Ans
(c) impersonates Brutus to shield him
159. Where does Antony order the news of Brutus to
be brought? Lucilius pretends he is Brutus, hoping the enemy
(a) Caesar’s tomb will seize him instead of the real general. This
(b) Octavius’s tent ruse reflects Lucilius’s loyalty and willingness to
(c) The Roman Senate protect his leader.
(d) The Capitol steps 163. “Why, now thou diest as bravely as Titinius/And
Ans mayst be honored, being Cato’s son.”
These lines refer to young Cato’s _____.
(b) Octavius’s tent
(a) betrayal of Brutus
Antony directs them to bring any updates about (b) capture by Antony
Brutus to Octavius’s tent. This indicates Antony (c) courageous death in battle
and Octavius are coordinating their final moves, (d) request for a truce
reflecting unified leadership against the remaining
opposition. Ans
(c) courageous death in battle
160. Which theme is underscored by Lucilius willingly Young Cato is killed while boldly announcing
risking his life for Brutus? his name. This remark acknowledges that, like
(a) The futility of battle Titinius, he died honorably, befitting his noble
(b) The power of deception heritage.
(c) The depth of loyalty
(d) The fear of the supernatural 164. “Safe, Antony, Brutus is safe enough./I dare
assure thee that no enemy/Shall ever take alive
Ans
the noble Brutus.”
(c) The depth of loyalty Lucilius’s statement implies that Brutus will
Lucilius’s act shows he’s ready to sacrifice himself _____.
to protect Brutus. Such devotion underscores the (a) surrender soon
play’s recurring focus on loyalty and comradeship, (b) be captured for ransom
even amid political upheaval and conflict. (c) remain unbeaten or die by his own terms
(d) join forces with Antony
161. “I am the son of Marcus Cato, ho!/A foe to Ans
tyrants and my country’s friend.”
(c) remain unbeaten or die by his own terms
By proclaiming these words, young Cato _____.
(a) pleads for mercy Lucilius confidently declares Brutus “safe,”
(b) seeks to rally his allies meaning he will not be taken alive. This
(c) betrays Brutus’s command underscores Brutus’s resolve to avoid capture and
(d) begs to join Antony maintain his honor, even in defeat.
Ans 165. “A prize no less in worth. Keep this man safe.
(b) seeks to rally his allies … I had rather have/Such men my friends than
enemies.”
Young Cato proudly declares his lineage (“the son
Antony’s reaction upon discovering Lucilius is
of Marcus Cato”) and his stance against tyranny.
NOT Brutus shows that he _____.
His goal is to encourage those around him, keeping
(a) will punish Lucilius severely
morale high despite the battle’s chaos.
(b) admires Lucilius’s loyalty

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(c) plans to bribe Lucilius 169. Hearing a misleading report, the Second Soldier
(d) has no interest in Lucilius exclaims, “Brutus is _____.”
(a) lost
Ans
(b) found
(b) admires Lucilius’s loyalty (c) ta’en
Though he hoped to capture Brutus, Antony values (d) slain
Lucilius’s honorable conduct. He treats Lucilius Ans
kindly, showing that loyal, courageous figures can
still be seen as assets-even if they were foes. (c) ta’en
“Ta’en” means taken or captured. The soldier
166. Cato proclaims, “I am the son of Marcus Cato, mistakenly believes they’ve captured Brutus,
ho!/A foe to tyrants and my country’s ____.” underscoring the confusion on the battlefield. In
(a) pride truth, they have seized Lucilius posing as Brutus.
(b) friend
(c) hope 170. Lucilius claims, “No enemy shall ever take alive
(d) heir the noble Brutus,” meaning Brutus refuses to be
Ans captured _____.
(a) bound
(b) friend
(b) subdued
Cato embraces his father’s legacy by declaring (c) alive
himself a champion of liberty. His defiance (d) beaten
underlines his willingness to fight tyranny and
die honorably, continuing Marcus Cato’s spirited Ans
lineage. (c) alive

167. Lucilius shouts to confuse the enemy, “And I am Lucilius asserts that Brutus would never
Brutus, Marcus Brutus, I!/Brutus, my country’s surrender. Whether found “alive or dead,” Brutus
_____!” intends to die a free Roman rather than suffer
(a) father capture, illustrating his unwavering resolve.
(b) hero
(c) friend 171. Identify the correct progression of Young Cato’s
(d) shield bold charge and its outcome.
1. Young Cato shouts, “I am the son of Marcus
Ans Cato, ho!”
(c) friend 2. Soldiers enter and engage him in combat.
3. Young Cato is slain on the battlefield.
Lucilius pretends to be Brutus in order to protect
4. Lucilius laments that Cato dies “as bravely as
the real Brutus. By calling himself his “country’s
Titinius.”
friend,” Lucilius reinforces Brutus’s patriotic
(a) 1, 4, 2, 3
reputation, aiding his escape.
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4
168. Threatened by the First Soldier, Lucilius is told, (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
“Yield, or thou _____.” (d) 4, 1, 2, 3
(a) die Ans
(b) kneel
(c) vanish (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
(d) beg Young Cato first declares his lineage and mission,
then soldiers arrive and fight. Cato is killed in
Ans
the clash, prompting Lucilius to honor his gallant
(a) die passing likened to Titinius’s bravery.
The soldier demands immediate surrender,
172. Determine the correct order of how Lucilius poses
forcing Lucilius to either yield or face execution.
as Brutus and is seized.
This ultimatum highlights the tense, life-or-death
1. Lucilius proclaims, “I am Brutus, Marcus
stakes at the battle’s chaotic climax.
Brutus, I!”

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

4. What news does the Messenger bring? 8. Which insult does Antony hurl about Caesar’s
(a) Caesar reborn killers?
(b) Enemy retreating (a) “Shameless traitors!”
(c) Battle sign displayed (b) “Flatterers of Rome!”
(d) Storms approaching (c) “You showed your teeth like apes.”
(d) “Rats of the Senate!”
Ans
(c) Battle sign displayed Ans

The Messenger warns that Brutus and Cassius’s (c) “You showed your teeth like apes.”
“bloody sign of battle is hung out,” meaning their Antony calls them apes and hounds, recalling
troops are ready to fight. This urgency prompts how they flattered Caesar only to stab him. This
Octavius and Antony to finalize their formation. vivid imagery intensifies the anger and hostility
between the opposing sides.
5. Which side does Octavius insist on taking?
(a) The left 9. What does Cassius call Octavius?
(b) The center (a) “A peevish schoolboy”
(c) The right (b) “A haughty ruler”
(d) The rear (c) “A sweet prince”
(d) “A naive poet”
Ans
(c) The right Ans

Antony instructs Octavius to command the left (a) “A peevish schoolboy”

flank, but Octavius insists on leading the right. Cassius belittles Octavius’s youth and inexperience
Their brief disagreement highlights tension in with the phrase “peevish schoolboy.” This insult
their alliance before they face Brutus and Cassius. underscores the conspirators’ view of Octavius as
unworthy to inherit Caesar’s power.
6. Who arrives to parley with Octavius and Antony?
(a) Brutus, Cassius 10. How does Octavius respond to the insults?
(b) Titinius, Messala (a) He apologizes
(c) Lucilius, Pindarus (b) He withdraws
(d) Lucius, Publius (c) He declares “Defiance”
(d) He remains silent
Ans
(a) Brutus, Cassius Ans

Brutus and Cassius approach the battlefield, (c) He declares “Defiance”

hoping to exchange words before blows. They bring Octavius, undeterred by mocking words, openly
their armies, along with key figures like Lucilius defies Brutus and Cassius. He invites them to
and Messala, for a final negotiation or challenge. fight on the battlefield if they dare, proclaiming a
readiness to avenge Caesar.
7. Which line best sums up Brutus’s opening to
11. What symbolic phrase does Cassius exclaim after
Octavius?
(a) “Words before blows” Octavius leaves?
(b) “Yield your sword” (a) “The storm is up.”
(c) “Stay your weapons” (b) “The clouds depart.”
(d) “Peace or war?” (c) “Our sun sets now.”
(d) “Swords to plowshares!”
Ans
Ans
(a) “Words before blows”
(a) “The storm is up.”
Brutus initially calls for talk, asking if they prefer
diplomacy over immediate violence. It reveals his Cassius’s words liken the coming conflict to a
wish to address issues verbally before resorting to fierce storm. His statement “all is on the hazard”
bloodshed. reflects the high stakes and uncertainty of the
battle they face.

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(c) (1) is the cause for (2). 180. Select the option that shows the correct
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Statement (1) : Young Cato’s death and Lucilius’s
Ans
self-sacrifice highlight loyalty and bravery among
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Brutus’s followers.
Believing Lucilius to be Brutus (1) brings Antony Statement (2) : Antony, moved by such courage,
to the scene, where he discerns the mistaken wishes to convert these valiant enemies into
identity but still deems Lucilius a worthy captive trusted allies.
(2). The false capture sparks Antony’s interest. (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
178. Select the option that shows the correct
Ans
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Statement (1) : Lucilius swears the real Brutus (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
will never be taken alive, offering himself instead. Seeing unwavering devotion even in defeat (1)
Statement (2) : Antony orders kind treatment for prompts Antony to admire and welcome such valor.
Lucilius, preferring such honorable men as allies Their steadfastness and sacrifice directly inspire
rather than foes. Antony’s desire to spare them as friends (2).
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). SCENE 5
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. 181. Who enters first in this scene?
Ans (a) Antony and Octavius
(b) Brutus and friends
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
(c) Cassius and Titinius
Lucilius’s vow about Brutus’s unyielding spirit (d) Lucilius alone
does not directly result in Antony’s humane
stance. Antony independently values loyal, Ans
courageous men-even on the opposing side- (b) Brutus and friends
regardless of Lucilius’s declaration. The scene opens with Brutus, Dardanus, Clitus,
179. Select the option that shows the correct Strato, and Volumnius entering. They are the
relationship between statements (1) and (2). “poor remains of friends” still with Brutus after
Statement (1) : Antony declares Lucilius “a prize his forces have largely been scattered or slain.
no less in worth,” instructing soldiers to keep him
safe. 182. Where does Brutus tell them to rest?
Statement (2) : Antony sends them to discover (a) In a hidden cave
if Brutus still lives, so he can deliver news to (b) On this rock
Octavius. (c) Under a nearby tree
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. (d) Inside Cassius’s tent
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. Ans
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(b) On this rock
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Brutus says, “Come, poor remains of friends,
Ans
rest on this rock.” This suggests they are weary
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. from battle and have found a temporary place to
Antony’s appreciation for Lucilius as a valuable gather their strength one last time.
captive stands apart from his desire to confirm
Brutus’s fate. One decision concerns prisoner 183. Who reports that “Statilius showed the
welfare; the other concerns gathering battlefield torchlight”?
intelligence. (a) Clitus
(b) Volumnius

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

2. A soldier arrests Lucilius, threatening him When Antony demands Brutus’s whereabouts,
with death. Lucilius vows no foe shall capture Brutus alive.
3. Lucilius tries to offer money in exchange for He insists Brutus remains true to himself, asking
killing “Brutus.” the gods to spare his leader from disgrace.
4. The soldiers realize Lucilius is an important
prisoner. 175. Select the correct order of Antony’s reaction to
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 Lucilius and his instructions to find Brutus.
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3 1. Antony concludes Lucilius “is no less a prize.”
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 2. Antony orders kindness to this captive.
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2 3. Antony bids his men to check if Brutus lives
or dies.
Ans 4. Antony admits he would prefer such men as
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3 allies, not enemies.
(a) 1, 4, 2, 3
Lucilius impersonates Brutus and is immediately
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4
seized. The captors recognize he’s valuable— “a
(c) 1, 2, 4, 3
noble prisoner.” Only then does Lucilius offer
(d) 4, 1, 3, 2
money to be slain as though he were Brutus.
Ans
173. Pick the correct sequence in which the soldiers
inform Antony they have “captured Brutus.” (c) 1, 2, 4, 3
1. The First Soldier hurries to deliver news. Antony sees Lucilius as a worthy captive—“no less
2. Antony arrives on the scene. in worth” than Brutus—and orders him treated
3. The Second Soldier cries, “Tell Antony Brutus well. He’d rather befriend such noble Romans,
is ta’en.” then dispatches troops to learn Brutus’s fate.
4. Antony asks, “Where is he?”
(a) 2, 3, 4, 1 176. Select the option that shows the correct
(b) 3, 2, 1, 4 relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(c) 3, 1, 2, 4 Statement (1) : Young Cato proclaims his lineage
(d) 1, 4, 2, 3 loudly—“I am the son of Marcus Cato!”—before
being killed in battle.
Ans Statement (2) : Lucilius then pretends to be
(c) 3, 1, 2, 4 Brutus, hoping to protect the real Brutus by
drawing the enemy’s attention.
The Second Soldier’s exclamation—“Brutus is
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
ta’en!”—prompts the First Soldier to run off with
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
the news. Antony then appears, wanting answers,
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
demanding to see the alleged captive they call
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Brutus.
Ans
174. Identify how Lucilius reassures Antony about the
real Brutus’s fate. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
1. Lucilius claims no enemy will ever seize Young Cato’s heroic self-identification leads to
Brutus alive. his death, whereas Lucilius’s ruse aims to shield
2. Antony questions him, “Where is he?” Brutus. The two actions serve different purposes
3. Lucilius prays the gods defend Brutus from and are not directly caused by one another.
shame.
4. Lucilius declares Brutus “will be found like 177. Select the option that shows the correct
himself.” relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3 Statement (1) : A soldier claims, “Brutus is
(b) 2, 4, 1, 3 ta’en,” believing Lucilius to be Brutus.
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 Statement (2) : Antony arrives, recognizing
(d) 2, 1, 3, 4 Lucilius is not Brutus but valuing him as “no less
in worth.”
Ans (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3 (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.

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191. Why does Volumnius say it’s “not an office for a 195. Why does Brutus say he will have “glory by this
friend”? losing day”?
(a) Killing is forbidden (a) He expects quick rescue
(b) He must serve Antony (b) He is avenging Caesar
(c) Helping suicide is unfriendlike (c) He kept his honor intact
(d) He wants Brutus alive (d) He captured Octavius
Ans Ans
(c) Helping suicide is unfriendlike (c) He kept his honor intact
Volumnius insists a true friend does not aid in Brutus claims that moral integrity and noble
self-destruction. This stance reflects their strong intentions will outlast defeat. Despite losing the
bond, where loyalty involves preserving each battle, his adherence to principle ensures he gains
other’s life instead of hastening a comrade’s end. a form of “glory” in posterity’s eyes.
196. Which companion remains with Brutus after the
192. Which words does Brutus use in his group
farewell? others exit?
(a) “Farewell to you—and you.” (a) Volumnius
(b) “I curse your betrayal.” (b) Strato
(c) “Soldiers, onward to glory!” (c) Clitus
(d) “I doubt your loyalty.” (d) Dardanus

Ans Ans

(a) “Farewell to you—and you.” (b) Strato

Brutus utters a collective goodbye “Farewell to When the others rush off, Brutus asks Strato to
you—and you—and you.” He acknowledges each stay. Strato’s loyalty is unbroken, making him the
friend, preparing for his final act. His resolute final friend who witnesses Brutus’s last moment
tone underlines that his end is near. and helps him die honorably.

197. What final request does Brutus make of Strato?

193. What does Brutus note about the men he’s met
in life? (a) “Bring me more soldiers.”
(a) All were liars (b) “Hold my sword as I run.”
(b) Each betrayed him (c) “Carry a message to Antony.”
(c) No man was false to him (d) “Spare my enemies.”
(d) Most tried to kill him Ans
Ans (b) “Hold my sword as I run.”
(c) No man was false to him Just like he asked Volumnius, Brutus beseeches
Brutus proclaims he never found a dishonest Strato to hold the sword’s hilt. He intends to
friend “I found no man but he was true to me.” impale himself rather than face the humiliation
This testifies to his respect for loyalty and the of capture, showcasing Roman ideals of self-
genuine bonds he maintained. determination.

194. How does Brutus describe the day’s battle? 198. How does Brutus ultimately die?
(a) “A glorious victory.” (a) Poison from Antony
(b) “This losing day.” (b) By Strato’s dagger
(c) “Our final triumph.” (c) Running upon his own sword
(d) “An unplanned retreat.” (d) Slain by Octavius
Ans Ans
(b) “This losing day.” (c) Running upon his own sword
Brutus calls it “this losing day,” admitting that Strato holds the sword while Brutus runs onto it,
their defeat is imminent. Despite the impending fulfilling Brutus’s wish to end his life on his own
loss, he maintains pride in what honor he’ll gain, terms. This tragic act reaffirms his commitment
even in the face of disaster. to honor over captivity.

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(iv) This extract reflects the theme of trust and Support your answer with reference to
its breakdown, as Cassius’s mistrust and Brutus’s character and the challenges of
misjudgment lead to his tragic demise. leadership during war.
It reveals the emotional toll of the battle,
Ans
as both Cassius and Titinius struggle with
the weight of their decisions and the chaos (i) “Seek him, Titinius, whilst I go to meet
surrounding them. the noble Brutus” means Messala instructs
(v) Cassius’s death was likely inevitable given Titinius to find Cassius while he goes to
his character and the circumstances, as his inform Brutus of the tragedy.
tendency toward mistrust and emotional By “thrusting this report into his ears,”
impulsiveness made him vulnerable to despair. Messala implies that delivering the news to
The play’s exploration of fate, misjudgment, Brutus will be as painful as forcing a weapon
and honor underscores how Cassius’s actions, into him.
though influenced by external chaos, were “For piercing steel and darts envenomed shall
rooted in his internal conflicts and values. be as welcome to the ears of Brutus as tidings
of this sight” means that Brutus will find
the news of Cassius’s death as devastating as
26. Read the following extract and answer the being physically wounded.
questions that follow: (ii) Messala describes the impact of delivering
Messala: the news to Brutus as agonizing, emphasizing
Seek him, Titinius, whilst I go to meet the emotional and psychological pain it will
The noble Brutus, thrusting this report cause.
Into his ears. I may say “thrusting it,” This reveals the gravity of the situation, as
For piercing steel and darts envenomed the loss of Cassius represents both a personal
Shall be as welcome to the ears of Brutus and strategic blow to their cause.
As tidings of this sight. This moment reflects the emotional toll of the
(i) What does Messala mean by “Seek him, battle, as both Messala and Titinius grapple
Titinius, whilst I go to meet the noble with the weight of the tragic events unfolding
Brutus”? around them.
What does Messala imply by “thrusting this (iii) Shakespeare uses metaphor, comparing the
report into his ears”? news to “piercing steel and darts envenomed,”
Explain “For piercing steel and darts to emphasize the devastating emotional
envenomed shall be as welcome to the ears of impact of Cassius’s death on Brutus.
Brutus as tidings of this sight.” Earlier moments, such as the conspirators’
(ii) How does Messala describe the impact of internal conflicts and the chaos of their
delivering the news to Brutus? strategy, foreshadow the emotional
What does this reveal about the gravity of consequences of their decisions and the
the situation? inevitable losses they face.
How does this moment reflect the emotional (iv) This moment reflects the themes of loyalty
toll of the battle on Messala and Titinius? and the burden of leadership, as Messala
(iii) How does Shakespeare use metaphor in this and Titinius navigate the responsibility of
passage to emphasize the weight of Cassius’s conveying difficult news and maintaining
death? their cause.
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow It reveals the deep bonds and mutual respect
the emotional consequences of the among the conspirators, as well as the heavy
conspirators’ actions? emotional responsibilities borne by their
(iv) How does this moment reflect the themes of leaders.
loyalty and the burden of leadership? (v) Messala’s approach to delivering the news is
What does it reveal about the relationships appropriate, as he recognizes the emotional
and responsibilities among the conspirators? impact it will have on Brutus and prepares
(v) Do you think Messala’s approach to delivering himself for the difficult task.
the news to Brutus is appropriate given the Brutus’s stoic character and commitment
circumstances? to their cause suggest he will process the

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Brutus knows his defeat is near. Rather than (c) must be taken captive
be taken prisoner, he seeks an honorable end, (d) should receive no rites
believing surrender would tarnish his dignity.
Ans
207. “Fare you well at once, for Brutus’ tongue (b) is buried with honor
Hath almost ended his life’s history.”
Octavius insists on giving Brutus a proper soldier’s
These words show Brutus’s _____.
funeral. Even though Brutus opposed him,
(a) guilt for betraying Caesar
Octavius respects his courage and moral standing.
(b) desire to rule Rome
(c) acceptance of death 211. When Brutus says, “Hold thou my sword hilts
(d) vow to avenge Portia whilst I run on it. Wilt thou, Strato?” he requests
Ans _____.
(a) final pardon
(c) acceptance of death (b) quick flight
Brutus indicates he has nearly finished telling his (c) loyal help
story. Recognizing his situation is hopeless, he (d) harsh judgment
bids a final farewell, prepared for the end.
Ans

208. “Caesar, now be still. (c) loyal help

I killed not thee with half so good a will.” Brutus wants Strato to hold his sword so that
Brutus’s final words suggest he _____. he may impale himself, thereby avoiding capture.
(a) had less resolve killing Caesar This solemn plea for “loyal help” underscores
(b) happily slew Caesar Brutus’s determination to die honorably.
(c) regrets sparing Caesar
(d) hopes Caesar will save him 212. When Brutus declares, “Caesar, now be still.
I killed not thee with half so good a will,” he
Ans addresses ______.
(a) had less resolve killing Caesar (a) Antony
Brutus believes his own suicide is more purposeful (b) Caesar
than Caesar’s murder. Addressing Caesar’s spirit, (c) Cassius
he implies his death repays the deed done. (d) Octavius
Ans
209. “This was the noblest Roman of them all. (b) Caesar
… He only in a general honest thought
And common good to all made one of them.” In his final words, Brutus calls upon Caesar,
Antony praises Brutus as _____. acknowledging that he takes his own life more
(a) betraying Rome willingly than he took Caesar’s. The remorseful
(b) genuinely selfless tone highlights Brutus’s lingering guilt.
(c) hungry for power
213. When Antony proclaims, “This was the noblest
(d) secretly envious
Roman of them all,” he is praising _____.
Ans (a) Strato
(b) genuinely selfless (b) Cassius
(c) Brutus
Antony acknowledges Brutus acted for Rome’s (d) Lucilius
welfare rather than personal gain. Unlike the other
conspirators, Brutus’s motives were honorable in Ans
Antony’s eyes. (c) Brutus

210. “According to his virtue, let us use him Antony recognizes Brutus’s pure motives,
With all respect and rites of burial.” contrasting him with conspirators who acted out
Octavius’s command means Brutus _____. of envy. By calling him “the noblest Roman,”
(a) will be shamed in Rome Antony credits Brutus with genuine honor in
(b) is buried with honor their tragic conflict.

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(ii) How does Brutus’s decision to avoid holding his determination to press forward despite
the funeral in the camp reflect his leadership setbacks.
priorities? (iv) Brutus’s tone reflects his stoic philosophy, as
What does his command to “set our battles he prioritizes duty and action over personal
on” reveal about his approach to the battle? emotions, focusing on the broader needs of his
How does this moment highlight the urgency forces.
of their situation? This reveals his leadership in the face of loss
(iii) How does this extract reflect the emotional and uncertainty, as he remains composed and
toll of war on Brutus and his forces? resolute in guiding his troops through the
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow challenges of war.
Brutus’s determination to press forward (v) Brutus’s decision to prioritize the battle over
despite setbacks? mourning is justified in the context of his role
(iv) How does Brutus’s tone in this extract reflect as a leader, as maintaining morale and focus
his stoic philosophy and focus on duty? is critical for their survival.
What does this reveal about his leadership in However, it also underscores the harsh
the face of loss and uncertainty? realities of war, where emotional sacrifices
(v) Do you think Brutus’s decision to prioritize are often necessary to achieve strategic goals,
the battle over mourning is justified? highlighting the complexity of Brutus’s
Support your answer with reference to his role position.
as a leader and the challenges his forces face.
Ans
SCENE 4
(i) Brutus says “His funerals shall not be in our
camp” to ensure that the soldiers are not 29. Read the following extract and answer the
demoralized by the sight of a funeral within questions that follow:
their ranks. Cato:
“Lest it discomfort us” means that Brutus What bastard doth not? Who will go with me?
fears the emotional impact of mourning on I will proclaim my name about the field.
the morale and focus of his troops as they I am the son of Marcus Cato, ho!
prepare for another battle. A foe to tyrants and my country’s friend.
“We shall try fortune in a second fight” I am the son of Marcus Cato, ho!
indicates that Brutus is determined to face (i) What does Cato mean by “What bastard
the enemy again and test their chances in a doth not? Who will go with me?”
decisive battle. Why does Cato proclaim, “I am the son of
(ii) Brutus’s decision to avoid holding the funeral Marcus Cato, ho”?
in the camp reflects his leadership priorities, Explain “A foe to tyrants and my country’s
as he focuses on maintaining morale and friend.”
ensuring his forces remain battle-ready. (ii) How does Cato express his pride and resolve
His command to “set our battles on” reveals in this extract?
his commitment to taking swift and decisive What does his declaration reveal about his
action, emphasizing preparation and resolve sense of identity and duty?
in the face of adversity. How does this moment reflect the intensity of
This moment highlights the urgency of their the battle?
situation, as Brutus and his forces must act (iii) How does Shakespeare use Cato’s speech to
quickly to address the unfolding events of the highlight themes of honor and legacy?
battle. What earlier moments in the play emphasize
(iii) This extract reflects the emotional toll of similar values of loyalty and resistance to
war on Brutus and his forces, as they must tyranny?
suppress their grief and focus on the demands (iv) How does this extract reflect Cato’s belief
of leadership and survival. in self-sacrifice and commitment to Rome’s
Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s stoic ideals?
response to Portia’s death and his handling of What does this reveal about the influence of
the conspirators’ internal conflicts, foreshadow his father’s legacy on his actions?

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Ans Statement (2) : Brutus concludes it is “more

(b) 1, 3, 2, 4 worthy to leap in ourselves,” wishing to end his
life on his own terms.
Messala asks for details; Strato recounts Brutus’s
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
final moment. Antony praises Brutus as uniquely
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
honorable among conspirators. Octavius then
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
resolves to grant him full rites befitting his valor.
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
220. Pick the correct ordering of Antony’s tribute and Ans
the concluding note of the play.
Antony pronounces “This was the noblest Roman (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
of them all.” Brutus interprets the ghostly warnings as a fatal
Octavius pledges respectful burial. omen (1), driving him to choose an honorable
Antony declares only Brutus acted for “common suicide rather than capture (2). That haunting
good to all.” vision directly prompts his final resolution.
They exit, calling the field to rest and “part the
glories.” 223. Select the option that shows the correct
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4 relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(b) 1, 3, 2, 4 Statement (1) : Brutus bids farewell to his
(c) 3, 1, 2, 4 companions, proclaiming he’s found no man
(d) 1, 2, 4, 3 untrue in all his life.
Statement (2) : He tells Strato, “Hold then my
Ans sword,” and runs upon it, thereby ending his life
(b) 1, 3, 2, 4 on his own will.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Antony begins by declaring Brutus the noblest
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
conspirator and noting his purely honorable
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
motives. Octavius resolves to honor him in death,
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
and they end the play by dividing victory’s
rewards. Ans
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
221. Select the option that shows the correct
relationship between statements (1) and (2). Brutus’s gratitude toward faithful friends stands
Statement (1) : Brutus repeatedly asks Clitus and apart from his personal decision to commit
Dardanus to kill him, but both refuse. suicide. Though both happen in quick succession,
Statement (2) : Brutus then urges Volumnius to his final thanks doesn’t directly trigger his self-
hold the sword, citing their old friendship, but inflicted death.
Volumnius also declines.
224. Select the option that shows the correct
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. relationship between statements (1) and (2).
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Statement (1) : Antony calls Brutus “the noblest
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. Roman of them all” once he sees Brutus’s body.
Statement (2) : Octavius decides that Brutus
Ans deserves all honors in burial, promising to lay his
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). bones “like a soldier.”
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
Brutus’s initial rejections from Clitus and
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
Dardanus prompt him to approach Volumnius
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
next. Having already been refused, Brutus turns
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
to an old friend (2) out of desperation from (1).
Ans
222. Select the option that shows the correct (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
relationship between statements (1) and (2).
Antony’s high praise (1) influences Octavius
Statement (1) : Brutus, sensing defeat, says
to treat Brutus with respect. Hearing Brutus
Caesar’s ghost appeared twice, confirming “my
extolled as uniquely honorable spurs Octavius to
hour is come.”
grant “all respect and rites of burial” (2).

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

(c) Dardanus (a) “Full of mercy”

(d) Strato (b) “Full of grief”
(c) “Full of anger”
Ans
(d) “Full of joy”
(a) Clitus
Ans
Clitus updates Brutus that although Statilius
signaled with a torch, he never returned. This (b) “Full of grief”
implies that Statilius is likely captured or killed, Clitus observes, “Now is that noble vessel full of
further heightening their sense of peril. grief.” They see Brutus overcome by sorrow, so
much that he contemplates ending his life rather
184. What does Brutus whisper to Clitus that he than being captured.
refuses?
188. Which spirit does Brutus say has appeared to him
(a) “Alert the soldiers.”
(b) “Find a hidden path.” twice?
(c) “Kill me now.” (a) Portia’s ghost
(d) “Escape to the hills.” (b) Caesar’s ghost
(c) Cassius’s ghost
Ans (d) Statilius’s ghost
(c) “Kill me now.” Ans
Brutus secretly asks Clitus to end his life. Clitus (b) Caesar’s ghost
reacts with horror—“What, I, my lord? No, not
for all the world”—showing he cannot bring Brutus confides to Volumnius that “the ghost of
himself to kill his leader. Caesar hath appeared… at Sardis once and this
last night.” These visions convince him that his
185. What does Clitus say he would “rather” do? time of death is near.
(a) Run far away
189. Why does Brutus claim “I know my hour is
(b) Kill himself
(c) Betray Volumnius come”?
(d) Join Antony’s side (a) Caesar’s spirit foretold it
(b) He’s too wounded
Ans (c) Antony surrendered
(b) Kill himself (d) Cassius commanded it
When asked to slay Brutus, Clitus exclaims, “I’ll Ans
rather kill myself.” His loyalty is unwavering, (a) Caesar’s spirit foretold it
but he refuses to murder a man he respects,
demonstrating deep devotion and moral conflict. Brutus interprets the repeated ghostly apparitions
as a sign his life must end. This supernatural
186. Which two characters step aside, shocked by belief, common in Shakespeare’s plays, prompts
Brutus’s request? Brutus to seek a quick, honorable death.
(a) Volumnius and Dardanus
190. Which task does Brutus beg Volumnius to
(b) Strato and Messala
(c) Dardanus and Clitus perform?
(d) Antony and Octavius (a) “Fetch the soldiers.”
(b) “Hold my sword hilts.”
Ans (c) “Carry my final letter.”
(c) Dardanus and Clitus (d) “Speak with Antony.”
After Brutus also whispers to Dardanus, he and Ans
Clitus step aside, exclaiming at the request. (b) “Hold my sword hilts.”
They realize Brutus wants someone to kill him,
revealing his despair at the hopeless situation. Brutus asks Volumnius to hold the sword as he
runs on it, but Volumnius refuses. Volumnius
187. How do Clitus and Dardanus describe Brutus’s considers it dishonorable for a friend to assist in
mental state? suicide, reflecting Roman ideals of loyalty.

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to the other’s decisions, showcasing the Antony suggests that their decision to descend
unpredictability of war. from the hills is more about appearances than
(v) Octavius’s confidence in this moment is genuine confidence.
warranted, as the enemy’s decision to descend “Thinking by this face to fasten in our
to the plains aligns with his strategy for a thoughts that they have courage” implies that
direct confrontation. Brutus and Cassius aim to project an image
However, the unpredictable nature of battle of bravery to intimidate Antony and Octavius.
and the potential for tactical missteps by (ii) Antony assesses the motives of Brutus and
both sides suggest that overconfidence could Cassius as a calculated attempt to appear
lead to unforeseen challenges. bold and courageous, despite underlying
hesitation or fear.
2. Read the following extract and answer the “But ‘tis not so” reflects Antony’s belief that
questions that follow: their apparent courage is merely a façade,
Antony: and he does not view their actions as a true
Tut, I am in their bosoms, and I know display of confidence.
Wherefore they do it. They could be content This reveals Antony’s confidence in his ability
To visit other places, and come down to understand and anticipate his opponents’
With fearful bravery, thinking by this face strategies, strengthening his position as a
To fasten in our thoughts that they have courage. strategic leader.
But ‘tis not so. (iii) This moment reflects the psychological and
(i) What does Antony mean by “I am in their strategic elements of warfare, as Antony
bosoms, and I know wherefore they do it”? focuses on interpreting the motives behind
What does Antony imply by “They could be Brutus and Cassius’s actions rather than
content to visit other places, and come down simply reacting to their movements.
with fearful bravery”? Earlier actions, such as Antony’s manipulation
Explain “Thinking by this face to fasten in of the Plebeians during Caesar’s funeral,
our thoughts that they have courage.” demonstrate his skill in understanding and
(ii) How does Antony assess the motives of Brutus influencing others to achieve his objectives.
and Cassius in this extract? (iv) Antony’s interpretation of Brutus and
What does Antony mean by “But ‘tis not so”? Cassius’s actions reflects his view of their
How does this reveal Antony’s confidence in leadership as cautious and reactive, rather
understanding his opponents? than bold and decisive.
(iii) How does this moment reflect the psychological This reveals Antony’s strategy to exploit their
and strategic elements of warfare in the play? perceived weaknesses, positioning himself as
What earlier actions demonstrate Antony’s the more confident and assertive leader in the
ability to read and manipulate others? upcoming battle.
(iv) How does Antony’s interpretation of Brutus (v) Antony’s dismissal of Brutus and Cassius’s
and Cassius’s actions reflect his view of their courage may be partially justified, as their
leadership? decision to engage in battle could stem from
What does this reveal about Antony’s desperation rather than strategic strength.
strategy for confronting them? However, Brutus and Cassius’s actions
(v) Do you think Antony’s dismissal of Brutus throughout the play, including their
and Cassius’s courage is justified? orchestration of Caesar’s assassination,
Support your answer with reference to their demonstrate their capacity for decisive and
actions and Antony’s perspective. bold actions, challenging Antony’s perception.
Ans 3. Read the following extract and answer the
(i) “I am in their bosoms, and I know wherefore questions that follow:
they do it” means that Antony believes he Messenger:
understands the thoughts and motivations of Prepare you, generals.
Brutus and Cassius. The enemy comes on in gallant show. Their
By “They could be content to visit other bloody sign of battle is hung out,
places, and come down with fearful bravery,” And something to be done immediately.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

(i) What does Brutus mean by “I prithee, dignity and control.

Strato, stay thou by thy lord”? (iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to highlight
What is Brutus implying by “Thy life hath the themes of loyalty and honor, as Strato’s
had some smatch of honor in it”? willingness to assist Brutus underscores their
Explain “Hold, then, my sword, and turn mutual respect and commitment to Roman
away thy face while I do run upon it.” ideals.
(ii) How does Brutus appeal to Strato’s sense of Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s leadership
honor in this extract? of the conspiracy and his concern for loyalty
What does this reveal about Brutus’s respect among his followers, foreshadow his reliance
for Strato? on trust in his final moments.
How does this moment reflect Brutus’s stoic (iv) Brutus’s final act reflects his values and
approach to his impending death? principles of honor and dignity, as he chooses
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to to end his life on his own terms rather than
highlight the themes of loyalty and honor in face humiliation or capture.
the play? This reveals his perception of dignity and
What earlier moments foreshadow Brutus’s control in the face of defeat, emphasizing his
reliance on loyalty and his decision to end commitment to Roman ideals even in his last
his life? moments.
(iv) How does Brutus’s final act reflect his values (v) Brutus’s decision to entrust Strato with
and principles throughout the play? this task reflects both strength and trust,
What does this reveal about his perception as it demonstrates his ability to maintain
of dignity and control in the face of defeat? composure and his confidence in Strato’s
(v) Do you think Brutus’s decision to entrust loyalty and understanding.
Strato with this task reflects strength, trust, This act aligns with Brutus’s character as a
or both? principled leader who values integrity and
Support your answer with reference to mutual respect, even in the most challenging
Brutus’s character and his relationships in circumstances.
the play.
41. Read the following extract and answer the
Ans questions that follow:
(i) “I prithee, Strato, stay thou by thy lord” Messala:
means that Brutus is asking Strato to remain My master’s man.—Strato, where is thy master?
by his side in his final moments as a gesture Strato:
of loyalty. Free from the bondage you are in, Messala.
“Thy life hath had some smatch of honor The conquerors can but make a fire of him,
in it” implies that Brutus respects Strato’s For Brutus only overcame himself,
integrity and considers him a man of dignity And no man else hath honor by his death.
and virtue. (i) What does Messala mean by “My master’s
“Hold, then, my sword, and turn away thy man.-Strato, where is thy master”?
face while I do run upon it” reflects Brutus’s What does Strato imply by “Free from the
request for Strato to assist in his honorable bondage you are in, Messala”?
death by holding the sword as Brutus takes Explain “For Brutus only overcame himself,
his own life. and no man else hath honor by his death.”
(ii) Brutus appeals to Strato’s sense of honor by (ii) How does Strato describe Brutus’s death in
recognizing his character and requesting his this extract?
assistance in a dignified and loyal manner. What does his statement reveal about
This reveals Brutus’s respect for Strato, Brutus’s character and his final moments?
as he chooses him for this critical and How does this moment reflect the respect
intimate task, trusting in his loyalty and Brutus commands, even in death?
understanding of honor. (iii) How does Shakespeare use Strato’s reflection
This moment reflects Brutus’s stoic approach to emphasize the themes of honor and
to his impending death, as he maintains freedom in the play?
composure and seeks to end his life with What earlier moments in the play foreshadow

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(iv) How does Shakespeare use this exchange wielding rhetoric as a weapon, and Cassius
to reveal the personalities and dynamics of blending pragmatism with verbal sparring.
Brutus, Antony, and Cassius? (v) Antony’s criticism of Brutus is justified,
What does this reveal about their differing as Brutus’s justification for Caesar’s
approaches to conflict and leadership? assassination relies on rhetoric about Rome’s
(v) Do you think Antony’s criticism of Brutus is freedom, while the act itself caused chaos and
justified? division.
Support your answer with reference to However, Brutus’s actions were motivated by
Caesar’s assassination and the events that his genuine belief in protecting Rome, making
followed. Antony’s criticism partially unfair in ignoring
Brutus’s intentions.
Ans
(i) Brutus means that using words to resolve 5. Read the following extract and answer the
conflicts is preferable to resorting to violence questions that follow:
or “bad strokes.” Antony:
Antony’s statement, “In your bad strokes, Villains, you did not so when your vile daggers
Brutus, you give good words,” is a sarcastic Hacked one another in the sides of Caesar.
criticism, accusing Brutus of justifying You showed your teeth like apes and fawned like
Caesar’s assassination with noble rhetoric. hounds
“The posture of your blows are yet unknown, And bowed like bondmen, kissing Caesar’s feet,
but, for your words, they rob the Hybla bees Whilst damned Casca, like a cur, behind
and leave them honeyless” means that while Struck Caesar on the neck. O you flatterers!
Antony’s actions are untested, his persuasive (i) What does Antony mean by “Villains, you
words are so powerful they metaphorically did not so when your vile daggers hacked one
strip honey from bees, emphasizing their another in the sides of Caesar”?
impact. What is Antony implying by “You showed
(ii) Antony criticizes Brutus’s actions by your teeth like apes and fawned like hounds”?
highlighting the hypocrisy of speaking Explain “Whilst damned Casca, like a cur,
nobly while committing violent acts, such as behind struck Caesar on the neck.”
Caesar’s assassination. (ii) How does Antony criticize the conspirators in
Cassius implies that Antony’s rhetoric is this extract?
highly manipulative and effective, drawing What does Antony mean by calling them
attention to his skill with words rather than “flatterers”?
his actions. How does this moment reflect Antony’s anger
This exchange reflects the tension between and disdain for the conspirators?
the two sides, as both accuse the other of (iii) How does this moment highlight Antony’s use
using words and actions hypocritically to of vivid imagery to convey his emotions?
justify their positions. What earlier actions in the play demonstrate
(iii) This moment highlights the theme of words Antony’s ability to use language to influence
versus actions, as the characters debate the and accuse?
morality and effectiveness of rhetoric and (iv) How does Antony’s speech reflect the theme
violence in achieving their goals. of betrayal and hypocrisy in the play?
Earlier moments, such as Antony’s funeral What does this reveal about Antony’s
speech, demonstrate the power of rhetoric perspective on Caesar’s assassination?
in swaying public opinion, while Caesar’s (v) Do you think Antony’s accusations against
assassination shows the far-reaching the conspirators are justified?
consequences of action. Support your answer with reference to the
(iv) Shakespeare uses this exchange to reveal conspirators’ motives and Antony’s perspective.
Brutus’s idealism, Antony’s sharp wit and Ans
rhetorical prowess, and Cassius’s pragmatism (i) By “Villains, you did not so when your vile
and subtle criticism of Antony. daggers hacked one another in the sides of
This reveals their differing approaches to Caesar,” Antony condemns the conspirators
conflict, with Brutus valuing principles, Antony for their violent betrayal of Caesar.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

199. Whose name does Brutus invoke in his final the assassins.
words?
(a) Portia 203. How were Brutus’s motives different from the
(b) Caesar other conspirators, according to Antony?
(c) Antony (a) He feared Caesar’s ghost
(d) Octavius (b) He did it for personal gain
(c) He acted for the general good
Ans (d) He wanted to be king
(b) Caesar Ans
As he dies, Brutus calls, “Caesar, now be still. (c) He acted for the general good
I killed not thee with half so good a will.” This Antony notes that while others killed Caesar out
acknowledges Caesar’s enduring influence and of envy, Brutus alone aimed for “common good.”
Brutus’s remorseful final reflection. This reveals Brutus’s genuine political idealism
200. What does Strato tell Messala regarding Brutus? rather than self-serving ambition.
(a) “He fled the battle.” 204. What does Octavius decide about Brutus’s body?
(b) “He is free from bondage.” (a) Burn it on the field
(c) “He has surrendered.” (b) Refuse him a funeral
(d) “He joined Antony.” (c) Bury it with honor
Ans (d) Cast it into the river
(b) “He is free from bondage.” Ans
To Messala’s question “Where is thy master?”, (c) Bury it with honor
Strato replies Brutus is “Free from the bondage Octavius instructs that Brutus’s remains be
you are in,” implying Brutus’s death released him “ordered honorably,” reflecting respect for his
from any earthly or enemy captivity. enemy’s nobility. He promises Brutus’s bones
201. According to Strato, in what sense did “Brutus shall lie in his tent and receive full burial rites.
overcome himself”? 205. Which theme emerges as Octavius ends the play
(a) He defeated his own despair with “let’s away to part the glories”?
(b) He conquered Antony’s strategy (a) Fate vs. free will
(c) He outlived his regrets (b) The burden of friendship
(d) He chose an honorable suicide (c) Honor and respect in victory
Ans (d) Fear of supernatural forces
(d) He chose an honorable suicide Ans

Strato explains that Brutus died by his own (c) Honor and respect in victory
action, “overcoming himself” instead of letting an Even in triumph, Octavius chooses to treat
enemy kill him. This is seen as an honorable way Brutus’s remains with dignity. This final action
to control one’s final fate. reflects a Shakespearean theme that true honor
respects valor in opponents, even in defeat.
202. How does Antony famously praise Brutus?
(a) “The bravest conspirator.” 206. “Hold thou my sword hilts whilst I run on it.”
(b) “Most cunning of men.” Brutus asks Volumnius to help him die because
(c) “The noblest Roman of them all.” he _____.
(d) “A fool for Caesar.” (a) trusts Volumnius most
(b) fears Octavius’s wrath
Ans
(c) rejects captivity’s shame
(c) “The noblest Roman of them all.” (d) punishes Volumnius’s betrayal
Antony declares Brutus the only conspirator Ans
who acted not out of jealousy but for Rome’s
common good. This line, “the noblest Roman,” (c) rejects captivity’s shame
underscores Brutus’s unique moral stature among

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(iii) This moment reflects the theme of vengeance (v) Do you think Cassius’s reluctance to fight
and justice, as Octavius seeks to restore honor reflects strength or weakness?
to Caesar’s name and punish the conspirators Support your opinion with examples from the
for their betrayal. play.
Earlier events, such as Antony’s funeral speech
Ans
and Octavius’s arrival in Rome, foreshadow
Octavius’s rise as a determined and ambitious (i) Cassius reveals that the day of this speech
leader. is his birthday, making it a poignant and
(iv) Octavius’s tone and language reflect his reflective moment for him.
resolute and authoritative leadership style, The phrase “Be thou my witness that against
emphasizing action over words and prioritizing my will, as Pompey was” refers to his belief
loyalty to Caesar’s memory. that, like Pompey, he is reluctantly forced into
This reveals his shared goals with Antony, a battle he does not wish to fight. This reveals
though it also hints at the eventual power his growing doubts and sense of vulnerability.
struggles between them, as Octavius’s (ii) “To set upon one battle all our liberties”
ambition grows. means that Cassius is staking the freedom of
(v) Octavius’s vow to avenge Caesar is justified Rome on the outcome of this single battle.
within the context of loyalty and justice, as Cassius feels compelled to fight because of
he seeks to restore order and address the the pressures of war and the need to confront
betrayal of Caesar’s assassination. Antony and Octavius. Despite his hesitation,
However, his focus on vengeance risks he recognizes the inevitability of the conflict.
perpetuating violence and chaos, reflecting (iii) This moment highlights Cassius’s internal
the complex interplay of power and morality conflict, as he grapples with his reluctance to
in the play. fight and the responsibility he feels for the
cause.
Earlier events, such as his role in Caesar’s
assassination and the subsequent fallout
among the conspirators, contribute to his
7. Read the following extract and answer the
doubts about their actions and their chances
questions that follow:
of success.
Cassius:
(iv) Cassius’s speech reflects a cautious and
Messala, This is my birthday; as this very day
reflective approach, while Brutus views the
Was Cassius born. Give me thy hand, Messala:
battle as a necessary and honorable fight for
Be thou my witness that against my will,
their ideals.
As Pompey was, am I compell’d to set
This difference underscores their contrasting
Upon one battle all our liberties.
leadership styles, with Cassius driven by
(i) What does Cassius reveal about the day of
pragmatism and Brutus by idealism, leading
this speech?
to tension between them.
Explain “Be thou my witness that against my
(v) Cassius’s reluctance reflects strength, as
will, as Pompey was.”
it shows his awareness of the risks and
What does this reveal about Cassius’s state
consequences of the battle. His reflective
of mind?
nature demonstrates his ability to think
(ii) What does Cassius mean by “to set upon one
beyond immediate action.
battle all our liberties”?
However, one might argue that his hesitation
Why does Cassius feel compelled to fight
weakens his leadership, as it contrasts with
despite his hesitation?
the decisiveness required in moments of crisis,
(iii) How does this moment reflect Cassius’s
leaving the conspirators vulnerable.
internal conflict?
What earlier events in the play contribute to
8. Read the following extract and answer the
his reluctance?
(iv) How does Cassius’s speech compare to questions that follow:
Brutus’s views on the battle? Cassius:
What does this reveal about their differing This morning are they fled away and gone
approaches to leadership? And in their steads do ravens, crows, and kites,

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

214. When Strato says, “I held the sword, and he did 217. Identify the correct sequence leading to Brutus’s
run on it,” he describes the death of _____. farewell to his companions.
(a) Titinius 1. Brutus bids each friend farewell.
(b) Brutus 2. Volumnius declares suicide-help unfit “for a
(c) Cassius friend.”
(d) Cato 3. Brutus laments he is “almost ended his life’s
history.”
Ans
4. Clitus urges Brutus to flee again.
(b) Brutus (a) 2, 4, 3, 1
Strato’s testimony reveals how Brutus chose (b) 4, 2, 1, 3
suicide rather than subjugation. By physically (c) 2, 3, 4, 1
holding the sword for him, Strato ensures Brutus’s (d) 2, 1, 4, 3
final act remains true to his Roman ideals of Ans
honor.
(a) 2, 4, 3, 1
215. When Volumnius refuses to “hold [Brutus’s] Volumnius rejects Brutus’s plea first. As alarms
sword hilts,” he says, “That’s not an office for a rise, Clitus warns Brutus to escape. Brutus
______.” reflects that his story is near its end, finally
(a) soldier offering emotional goodbyes to his loyal men.
(b) brother
(c) friend 218. Select the correct order of Brutus’s final act with
(d) foe Strato.
Ans 1. Brutus praises Strato as “of a good respect.”
2. Brutus asks Strato to hold the sword.
(c) friend
3. Brutus runs upon the blade, exclaiming
Volumnius declines Brutus’s plea to assist in “Caesar, now be still.”
suicide, believing true friendship cannot include 4. Strato reports that Brutus “overcame
aiding self-harm. His refusal highlights the moral himself.”
dilemma faced by those loyal to Brutus until the (a) 4, 1, 2, 3
end. (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(c) 2, 3, 1, 4
(d) 1, 3, 4, 2
Ans

216. Determine the correct order of Brutus’s requests (b) 1, 2, 3, 4

for assistance in ending his life. Brutus first honors Strato’s character, then
1. Brutus quietly asks Clitus to kill him. requests he hold the sword facing away. Brutus
2. Brutus whispers the same request to impales himself with greater willingness than he
Dardanus. slew Caesar, leaving Strato to confirm his noble
3. Brutus confides in Volumnius about Caesar’s self-defeat.
ghost and his own end.
4. Volumnius refuses to hold Brutus’s sword. 219. Determine the correct sequence of Antony and
(a) 3, 1, 4, 2 Octavius’s discovery of Brutus’s end.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 1. Messala inquires how Brutus died.
(c) 2, 3, 4, 1 2. Antony calls Brutus “the noblest Roman of
(d) 4, 1, 3, 2 them all.”
Ans 3. Strato reveals he held the sword as Brutus
ran onto it.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 4. Octavius decides to bury Brutus with honor.
First, Brutus asks Clitus, who refuses. Next, he (a) 3, 1, 2, 4
tries Dardanus. Then he reveals his vision of (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
Caesar’s ghost to Volumnius, who also declines. (c) 1, 4, 3, 2
Each friend resists aiding Brutus’s suicide. (d) 2, 4, 3, 1

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Ans Octavius Stand fast, Titinius we must out and

(i) Cassius refers to his belief in Epicurus’s talk.
philosophy, which dismisses superstitions and (i) What disagreement arises between Antony
omens. and Octavius at the beginning of this extract?
By saying, “Now I change my mind,” Cassius What does Octavius mean by “Why do you
admits that recent events have made him cross me in this exigent?”
reconsider his stance and partially believe in How does Antony respond to Octavius’s
omens. objection?
The eagles perching on the ensign symbolize (ii) How does this moment highlight the tension
strength and victory, as they are noble birds between Antony and Octavius?
associated with Roman power and success. What does this disagreement reveal about
(ii) Cassius interprets the presence of the eagles their leadership styles?
as a positive omen, representing strength How does this tension reflect the theme of
and loyalty. However, their departure signals power struggles in the play?
impending defeat. (iii) What does Cassius mean by “They stand,
The eagles symbolize courage and triumph, and would have parley”?
but their replacement by scavenger birds What is the significance of the parley in the
reflects a shift toward doom and despair. context of the battle?
This moment highlights Cassius’s growing fear (iv) How does this extract foreshadow the outcome
and superstition, showing his vulnerability in of the battle?
the face of the upcoming battle. What does the interaction between Octavius
(iii) Cassius’s newfound belief in omens contrasts and Antony suggest about their alliance?
with his earlier reliance on reason and (v) Do you think Antony or Octavius is better
skepticism, as seen in his adherence to suited for leadership in this moment?
Epicurean philosophy. Support your answer with examples from the
This shift reveals his emotional turmoil and extract and the play.
increasing doubt about their chances of Ans
success, demonstrating his evolving character (i) The disagreement arises over the positioning
under pressure. of their armies, with Antony instructing
(iv) This extract explores the theme of fate Octavius to take the left flank while he leads
versus free will by showing Cassius’s struggle the right.
between rationality and superstition. Octavius’s question, “Why do you cross me in
Earlier in the play, Caesar dismisses the this exigent?” shows his objection to Antony’s
Soothsayer’s warning, demonstrating his command, as he believes his authority is being
belief in free will, while Brutus grapples with undermined during this critical moment.
his moral duty versus fate’s consequences. Antony responds firmly, insisting that
(v) Cassius’s change of belief reflects his growing Octavius should follow his instructions and
wisdom, as he begins to acknowledge forces take the left flank, emphasizing his seniority.
beyond human control, such as fate and (ii) This moment highlights the growing tension
omens. between Antony and Octavius as both vie for
However, it may also signal weakness, as his control and leadership.
fear and despair undermine his ability to lead Antony’s authoritative style contrasts with
effectively during the critical moments of the Octavius’s assertiveness, as Octavius resists
battle. Antony’s command and insists on his own
10. Read the following extract and answer the strategy.
questions that follow: This tension reflects the theme of power
Antony Octavius, lead your battle softly on. struggles in the play, as even allies face
Octavius Upon the left hand of the even field. conflicts when their ambitions and egos clash.
Antony Upon the right hand I; keep thou the left. (iii) Cassius’s line “They stand, and would have
Octavius Why do you cross me in this exigent? parley” means that the opposing forces,
Antony I do not cross you; but I will do so. March. led by Antony and Octavius, are halting to
Cassius They stand, and would have parley. initiate a discussion before the battle begins.
The parley signifies a moment of confrontation

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

“You showed your teeth like apes and fawned Never, till Caesar’s three and thirty wounds
like hounds” implies that the conspirators Be well avenged, or till another Caesar
acted with false loyalty, behaving submissively Have added slaughter to the sword of traitors.
and deceitfully toward Caesar before attacking (i) What does Octavius mean by “If arguing
him. make us sweat, the proof of it will turn to
“Whilst damned Casca, like a cur, behind redder drops”?
struck Caesar on the neck” refers to What does “When think you that the sword
Casca delivering the first blow in Caesar’s goes up again?” suggest about Octavius’s
assassination, comparing him to a cowardly determination?
dog attacking from behind. Explain “Never, till Caesar’s three and thirty
(ii) Antony criticizes the conspirators by accusing wounds be well avenged.”
them of hypocrisy, flattery, and cowardice, (ii) How does Octavius express his commitment
contrasting their fawning behavior with their to avenging Caesar in this extract?
brutal actions. What does he mean by “till another Caesar
By calling them “flatterers,” Antony implies have added slaughter to the sword of traitors”?
that their public displays of loyalty to Caesar How does this reveal Octavius’s vision of his
were insincere and designed to mask their role in Rome’s future?
true intentions. (iii) How does this moment reflect the theme of
This moment reflects Antony’s deep anger and vengeance and justice in the play?
disdain for the conspirators, as he condemns What earlier events in the play foreshadow
their betrayal in harsh and emotional terms. Octavius’s rise and determination?
(iii) Antony uses vivid imagery, such as “apes,” (iv) How does Octavius’s tone and language
“hounds,” and “cur,” to convey his disgust reflect his leadership style and priorities?
and emphasize the conspirators’ deceitful and What does this reveal about his relationship
animalistic behavior. with Antony and their shared goals?
Earlier moments, such as Antony’s funeral (v) Do you think Octavius’s vow to avenge Caesar
speech, demonstrate his ability to use is justified?
language to influence public opinion and Support your answer with reference to
expose the conspirators’ motives. Caesar’s assassination and the play’s themes
(iv) Antony’s speech reflects the theme of betrayal of loyalty and power.
and hypocrisy, as he highlights the contrast
Ans
between the conspirators’ outward loyalty
and their treacherous actions. (i) By “If arguing make us sweat, the proof of it
It reveals Antony’s perspective on Caesar’s will turn to redder drops,” Octavius suggests
assassination as a vile and cowardly act, that debate and rhetoric will give way to
fueled by personal ambition rather than bloodshed in the battle for justice.
genuine concern for Rome. “When think you that the sword goes up
(v) Antony’s accusations against the conspirators again?” reflects Octavius’s resolve to keep
are justified, as their actions involved fighting until justice for Caesar is achieved.
betraying Caesar while pretending to be loyal, “Never, till Caesar’s three and thirty wounds
driven by fear of his perceived ambition. be well avenged” means that Octavius will
However, some conspirators, like Brutus, acted not rest until Caesar’s death is avenged and
with genuine belief in their cause, suggesting the conspirators are defeated.
that Antony’s blanket condemnation may (ii) Octavius expresses his commitment by drawing
overlook their differing motives. his sword and declaring his determination to
avenge Caesar and uphold his legacy.
6. Read the following extract and answer the “Till another Caesar have added slaughter to
questions that follow: the sword of traitors” implies that Octavius
Octavius: sees himself as Caesar’s successor, ready to
Come, come, the cause. If arguing make us sweat, destroy the conspirators to restore order.
The proof of it will turn to redder drops. This reveals Octavius’s vision of his role as a
Look, I draw a sword against conspirators; leader who will carry forward Caesar’s mission
When think you that the sword goes up again? and ensure his legacy through decisive action.

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12. Read the following extract and answer the (ii) Brutus criticizes Cato’s decision to take his
questions that follow: own life, suggesting that it was an act of
Brutus: avoidance rather than courage, motivated by
Even by the rule of that philosophy fear rather than resilience.
By which I did blame Cato for the death Brutus’s statement reveals his commitment
Which he did give himself (I know not how, to patience and his belief in accepting the will
But I do find it cowardly and vile, of providence, emphasizing the importance
For fear of what might fall, so to prevent of enduring challenges rather than escaping
The time of life), arming myself with patience them.
To stay the providence of some high powers This reflects Brutus’s stoic philosophy, which
That govern us below. values reason, endurance, and acceptance of
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Even by the rule life’s hardships over emotional or impulsive
of that philosophy by which I did blame Cato actions.
for the death which he did give himself”? (iii) This moment reflects Brutus’s internal
What does Brutus mean by “I do find it conflict between his rational philosophy
cowardly and vile”? and the emotional weight of his decisions,
Explain “To stay the providence of some high particularly his role in Caesar’s assassination.
powers that govern us below.” Earlier actions, such as his soliloquy in the
(ii) How does Brutus criticize Cato’s decision to orchard, highlight his struggle with fate
take his own life? versus free will, as he debates whether to act
What does Brutus’s statement reveal about against Caesar or let events unfold naturally.
his perspective on patience and providence? (iv) Brutus’s statement foreshadows his eventual
How does this reflect Brutus’s stoic decision to take his own life at Philippi, as
philosophy? he ultimately finds himself unable to endure
(iii) How does this moment reflect Brutus’s defeat and capture.
internal conflict and his views on fate versus It reveals his emotional and psychological
free will? strain as the battle approaches, suggesting
What earlier actions in the play highlight that his stoic resolve may falter under the
Brutus’s struggle with these themes? weight of his responsibilities and guilt.
(iv) How does Brutus’s statement foreshadow his (v) Brutus’s criticism of Cato’s actions aligns
eventual actions and decisions later in the with his moral principles, as he values
play? courage, patience, and acceptance of fate over
What does this reveal about his emotional and fear-driven decisions.
psychological state as the battle approaches? However, his eventual decision to commit
(v) Do you think Brutus’s criticism of Cato’s suicide highlights the complexity of his
actions aligns with his own moral principles? character, as his ideals conflict with the
Support your answer with reference to his realities of war and personal responsibility.
values and actions in the play.
Ans 13. Read the following extract and answer the
(i) By “Even by the rule of that philosophy by questions that follow:
which I did blame Cato for the death which Brutus:
he did give himself,” Brutus refers to his No, Cassius, no. Think not, thou noble Roman,
philosophical belief that suicide is wrong That ever Brutus will go bound to Rome.
and criticizes Cato’s decision to end his life He bears too great a mind. But this same day
prematurely. Must end that work the ides of March begun.
“I do find it cowardly and vile” means And whether we shall meet again, I know not.
that Brutus views suicide as a weak and Therefore our everlasting farewell take.
dishonorable act, motivated by fear of future Forever and forever farewell, Cassius.
events. (i) What does Brutus mean by “Think not, thou
“To stay the providence of some high powers noble Roman, that ever Brutus will go bound
that govern us below” reflects Brutus’s belief to Rome”?
in enduring life’s challenges and trusting the What does “But this same day must end that
decisions of higher powers or fate. work the ides of March begun” signify?

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

Fly o’er our heads and downward look on us, Earlier events, such as the conspirators’
As we were sickly prey : their shadows seem internal conflicts, their loss of public support
A canopy most fatal, under which after Caesar’s assassination, and Antony and
Our army lies, ready to give up the ghost. Octavius’s rising power, have contributed to
(i) What does Cassius observe about the birds? his anxieties.
Explain “As we were sickly prey.” (iv) The imagery of predatory birds contrasts
What does the imagery of “a canopy most sharply with the conspirators’ earlier
fatal” suggest? confidence, symbolizing a shift from hope to
(ii) How does Cassius interpret the presence of despair.
ravens, crows, and kites? It foreshadows the eventual defeat of Cassius
What do these birds symbolize? and Brutus at Philippi, as their unity and
How does this reflect Cassius’s state of mind? strength deteriorate, leading to their downfall.
(iii) How does this moment reflect Cassius’s fears (v) Cassius’s fears are justified as the conspirators
about the outcome of the battle? face overwhelming challenges, including
What earlier events in the play have weakened morale, dwindling support, and
contributed to his growing anxiety? Antony and Octavius’s superior forces.
(iv) How does the imagery of predatory birds His perception of the birds as omens aligns
contrast with the conspirators’ earlier with their precarious position in the battle,
confidence? highlighting the emotional toll of their actions
What does this foreshadow about the battle and the looming consequences of their decisions.
of Philippi?
(v) Do you think Cassius’s fears in this moment 9. Read the following extract and answer the
are justified? questions that follow:
Support your opinion with reference to his Cassius:
character and the context of the play. You know that I held Epicurus strong
And his opinion now I change my mind,
Ans And partly credit things that do presage.
(i) Cassius observes that scavenger birds like Coming from Sardis, on our former ensign
ravens, crows, and kites are replacing the Two mighty eagles fell, and there they perch’d,
eagles that once symbolized strength and Gorging and feeding from our soldiers’ hands;
victory, flying ominously overhead. Who to Philippi here consorted us.
The phrase “As we were sickly prey” suggests (i) What does Cassius mean by “I held Epicurus
that the birds see the army as weak and strong”?
close to defeat, making them easy targets for Why does he say, “Now I change my mind”?
scavengers. What is the significance of the eagles perching
The imagery of “a canopy most fatal” conveys on the ensign?
a sense of doom, with the birds’ shadows (ii) How does Cassius interpret the presence of
symbolizing the impending death and defeat the eagles and their departure?
of their army. What do the eagles symbolize?
(ii) Cassius interprets the presence of scavenger How does this moment reflect Cassius’s state
birds as a bad omen, signaling the army’s of mind?
potential defeat. (iii) How does Cassius’s superstition contrast with
These birds symbolize death and decay, his earlier beliefs?
reflecting the army’s vulnerable and declining What does this reveal about his character
position. development?
This interpretation shows Cassius’s (iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of
superstitious and pessimistic mindset as he fate versus free will?
becomes increasingly doubtful about their What earlier events in the play explore this
chances of success in battle. theme?
(iii) This moment reflects Cassius’s growing fear (v) Do you think Cassius’s change of belief is a
that their efforts will end in failure. He views sign of weakness or wisdom?
the birds as a sign of defeat and is overcome Support your opinion with examples from the
with foreboding. play.

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What does this reveal about his philosophical courage and maintain their resolve to uphold
outlook as the battle approaches? their principles.
(v) Do you think Brutus and Cassius’s acceptance Their acceptance also reflects resignation, as
of the possible outcomes of the battle they acknowledge the consequences of their
demonstrates strength or resignation? actions and the inevitability of their choices
Support your answer with reference to their leading to this moment.
characters and the events of the play.
Ans SCENE 2
(i) “Forever and forever farewell, Brutus” means
15. Read the following extract and answer the
that Cassius believes this parting may be their
questions that follow:
last, acknowledging the potential finality of
Brutus:
the moment.
Ride, ride, Messala, ride, and give these bills
By “If we do meet again, we’ll smile indeed;
Unto the legions on the other side!
if not, ’tis true this parting was well made,”
(i) What does Brutus instruct Messala to do in
Cassius expresses hope for a reunion but
this extract?
accepts that their farewell is heartfelt and
What does “give these bills unto the legions
appropriate given the circumstances.
on the other side” imply?
“O, that a man might know the end of this
Explain How does the urgency in Brutus’s
day’s business ere it come!” reflects Brutus’s
tone reflect the situation?
wish to foresee the outcome of the battle,
(ii) How does Brutus’s instruction highlight his
lamenting the uncertainty of their fate.
leadership in the midst of battle?
(ii) This exchange reflects the gravity of the
What does this reveal about his ability to
situation, as Brutus and Cassius confront the
coordinate and strategize during critical
possibility of their deaths and the end of their
moments?
cause.
How does Messala’s role support Brutus’s
By “it sufficeth that the day will end, and
command?
then the end is known,” Brutus accepts that
(iii) How does this moment reflect the tension and
the outcome will reveal itself with time,
stakes of the battle?
emphasizing his stoic approach to uncertainty.
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow
This moment highlights their acceptance
this urgency and Brutus’s leadership under
of the unpredictability of battle and their
pressure?
resolve to face whatever comes with dignity.
(iv) How does Brutus’s reliance on Messala and
(iii) The farewell reflects their bond and mutual
the legions reflect the theme of trust and
respect, as both express their esteem and
collaboration?
appreciation for each other despite the
What does this reveal about the challenges of
challenges they have faced.
leading in a divided and chaotic environment?
Earlier moments, such as their reconciliation
(v) Do you think Brutus’s decision to act quickly
after their argument and their collaboration
in this moment is effective?
in leading the conspiracy, demonstrate their
Support your answer with reference to the
loyalty and shared purpose.
dynamics of the battle and his leadership
(iv) Brutus’s reflection on the uncertainty of the
style.
day reflects the theme of fate versus free
will, as he acknowledges the limits of human Ans
control while embracing his agency in facing (i) Brutus instructs Messala to deliver important
the battle. messages (“bills”) to the legions on the other
This reveals his philosophical outlook as side of the battlefield, ensuring coordination
stoic and resigned, focusing on enduring the among their forces.
moment rather than attempting to change “Give these bills unto the legions on the
the inevitable. other side” implies that Brutus is sending
(v) Brutus and Cassius’s acceptance of the strategic instructions to his troops positioned
possible outcomes of the battle demonstrates elsewhere.
strength, as they confront uncertainty with The urgency in Brutus’s tone reflects the

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

“To kill him, Clitus” reveals that Brutus has And this last night here in Philippi fields.
asked Dardanus to end his life, demonstrating I know my hour is come.
Brutus’s despair and acceptance of defeat. (i) What does Brutus mean by “The ghost of
“Now is that noble vessel full of grief, that Caesar hath appeared to me”?
it runs over even at his eyes” means that What significance does “Two several times by
Brutus, once strong and honorable, is now night—at Sardis once and this last night here
overwhelmed with sorrow, and his emotions in Philippi fields” hold?
are visibly spilling over. Explain “I know my hour is come.”
(ii) Clitus and Dardanus’s conversation reflects (ii) How does Brutus interpret the appearances of
their deep concern for Brutus, as they Caesar’s ghost?
recognize the immense emotional burden he What does this reveal about his state of mind
is carrying. as the battle concludes?
This reveals Brutus’s state of mind as one How does this moment reflect Brutus’s
of despair and resignation, as he faces the acceptance of fate?
consequences of his actions and the collapse (iii) How does Shakespeare use the ghost of
of his cause. Caesar to emphasize the themes of guilt and
This moment highlights the emotional toll inevitability in the play?
of the battle, as Brutus struggles with guilt, What earlier moments foreshadow this
loss, and the realization of their impending confrontation with the ghost and its impact
defeat. on Brutus?
(iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to reflect the (iv) How does Brutus’s acknowledgment of his
themes of honor and loyalty, as Brutus seeks “hour” reflect his stoic philosophy and belief
to preserve his dignity even in the face of in fate?
defeat, and his followers grapple with their What does this reveal about his understanding
loyalty to him. of his role in the events following Caesar’s
Earlier events, such as Brutus’s stoic response assassination?
to Portia’s death and his acknowledgment (v) Do you think Brutus’s belief in the ghost as
of their dwindling forces, foreshadow his a harbinger of his death reflects superstition,
eventual request to end his life. guilt, or a combination of both?
(iv) Brutus’s behavior reflects his stoic philosophy, Support your answer with reference to his
as he seeks to maintain control over his fate character and the play’s themes of morality
and avoid capture, prioritizing honor over and consequence.
survival.
Ans
His call to Volumnius suggests that he values
his close relationships and wishes to entrust (i) “The ghost of Caesar hath appeared to me”
his final moments to someone he respects and means that Brutus has experienced visions
trusts. of Caesar’s ghost, which he interprets as a
(v) Brutus’s decision to seek help in ending supernatural sign or warning.
his life reflects a combination of strength “Two several times by night—at Sardis once
and despair. His resolve to avoid dishonor and this last night here in Philippi fields”
demonstrates strength, while his inability to emphasizes the recurring nature of the ghost’s
see a path forward reveals despair. appearances, linking them to key moments of
This duality aligns with the play’s themes reflection and crisis for Brutus.
of loyalty, honor, and the personal sacrifices “I know my hour is come” reflects Brutus’s
made in pursuit of ideals, highlighting the belief that the ghost’s appearance signifies the
tragic complexity of Brutus’s character. inevitability of his death and the culmination
of his fate.
36. Read the following extract and answer the (ii) Brutus interprets the appearances of Caesar’s
questions that follow: ghost as an omen of his impending death,
Brutus: signifying divine or fateful retribution for his
Why this, Volumnius: role in Caesar’s assassination.
The ghost of Caesar hath appeared to me This reveals Brutus’s resigned and reflective
Two several times by night—at Sardis once state of mind, as he faces the consequences of

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It reveals Brutus’s strengths as a leader in Ans

his decisiveness and courage, but also his (i) “O, look, Titinius, look, the villains fly!”
potential vulnerability if his observations or means that Cassius observes his soldiers
assumptions prove incorrect. retreating in fear, causing him frustration and
(v) Brutus’s decision to act on his observation of anger.
Octavius’s forces is justified, as it aligns with “Myself have to mine own turned enemy”
his leadership style of taking calculated risks implies that Cassius feels forced to act against
based on strategic analysis. his own side, killing a retreating soldier to
However, the unpredictable nature of battle maintain discipline.
and the possibility of misjudging the enemy’s “This ensign here of mine was turning back;
intentions highlight the inherent risks of such I slew the coward and did take it from him”
decisions. means that Cassius killed the soldier who
carried his standard when he attempted to
flee, taking the ensign to symbolize strength
and leadership.
(ii) This moment reflects Cassius’s frustration
and desperation, as he struggles to maintain
SCENE 3 control and morale during the chaos of battle.
17. Read the following extract and answer the Cassius’s reaction reveals his high expectations
questions that follow: of loyalty and bravery, as he refuses to tolerate
Cassius: cowardice among his ranks.
O, look, Titinius, look, the villains fly! This moment contributes to the tension of the
Myself have to mine own turned enemy. scene, as Cassius’s drastic actions highlight
This ensign here of mine was turning back; the intensity and unpredictability of the
I slew the coward and did take it from him. battle.
(i) What does Cassius mean by “O, look, (iii) Shakespeare uses Cassius’s actions to
Titinius, look, the villains fly”? highlight the chaos and emotional strain of
What does “Myself have to mine own turned war, showing how even leaders are pushed to
enemy” imply about Cassius’s actions? extremes under pressure.
Explain “This ensign here of mine was turning Earlier moments, such as Cassius’s disputes
back; I slew the coward and did take it from with Brutus and his doubts about their
him.” strategy, foreshadow his struggle to maintain
(ii) How does this moment reflect Cassius’s order and unity among their forces.
frustration and desperation during the battle? (iv) Cassius’s behavior reflects the theme of loyalty
What does Cassius’s reaction reveal about his and betrayal, as he values steadfastness in
values and expectations of loyalty? his followers and reacts harshly to perceived
How does this moment contribute to the disloyalty.
tension of the scene? This reveals his rigid leadership style and his
(iii) How does Shakespeare use Cassius’s actions emotional state during the battle, as fear and
to highlight the chaos and emotional strain of frustration drive him to act impulsively.
war? (v) Cassius’s decision to kill the ensign can
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow be seen as justified within the context of
Cassius’s struggle to maintain order and his leadership style, as he aims to enforce
unity? discipline and prevent further retreat.
(iv) How does Cassius’s behavior reflect the theme However, his actions also reflect the extreme
of loyalty and betrayal in the play? pressure of the situation and highlight his
What does this reveal about his leadership inability to inspire loyalty through trust and
style and his state of mind during the battle? respect rather than fear.
(v) Do you think Cassius’s decision to kill the
ensign was justified? 18. Read the following extract and answer the
Support your answer with reference to his questions that follow:
character and the challenges he faces in this Cassius:
moment. Come down, behold no more.

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(iv) How does this moment reflect the theme of potential for Titinius’s capture or harm,
trust and loyalty in the play? highlight the difficult choices leaders must
What does it reveal about the relationship make in high-pressure situations.
between Cassius and Titinius?
(v) Do you think Cassius’s decision to send 24. Read the following extract and answer the
Titinius was wise? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to his Pindarus:
leadership style and the risks involved. Titinius is enclosed round about
With horsemen that make to him on the spur,
Ans Yet he spurs on. Now they are almost on him.
(i) “Mount thou my horse and hide thy spurs in Now Titinius! Now some light. O, he lights too.
him” means that Cassius instructs Titinius to He’s ta’en.
ride his horse swiftly and with urgency. And hark, they shout for joy.
Cassius asks Titinius to ride to “yond troops” (i) What does Pindarus mean by “Titinius is
to determine whether the approaching soldiers enclosed round about with horsemen”?
are allies or enemies. What does “He’s ta’en” imply about Titinius’s
“That I may rest assured whether yond troops fate?
are friend or enemy” reflects Cassius’s need Explain “And hark, they shout for joy.”
for clarity about the identity and intentions (ii) How does Pindarus describe the unfolding
of the troops nearby. events involving Titinius?
(ii) This moment reflects Cassius’s concern for What does this reveal about the challenges of
the uncertainty and danger of the battlefield, interpreting events during the chaos of battle?
as he seeks to verify the allegiance of the How does this moment heighten the tension
approaching troops. for Cassius and the audience?
Cassius’s request reveals his reliance on (iii) How does this extract reflect the theme of
Titinius as a trusted ally and his cautious miscommunication and its consequences?
leadership in prioritizing information before What earlier events in the play foreshadow
making decisions. the impact of misinterpretation on critical
This moment builds tension by emphasizing decisions?
the high stakes and the potential for (iv) How does this moment reflect the loyalty and
misjudgment in the chaotic environment of risks associated with Titinius’s mission?
the battle. What does it reveal about the pressures faced
(iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to highlight by those supporting Cassius and Brutus?
the chaos and unpredictability of war, as even (v) Do you think Pindarus’s interpretation of
experienced leaders like Cassius are unsure of Titinius’s capture was justified based on what
the situation on the battlefield. he observed?
Earlier events, such as the conspirators’ initial Support your answer with reference to the
success followed by their strategic missteps, challenges of war and the play’s themes of
foreshadow the challenges and uncertainty perception and reality.
Cassius faces in this moment. Ans
(iv) This moment reflects the theme of trust and (i) “Titinius is enclosed round about with
loyalty, as Cassius entrusts Titinius with an horsemen” means that Titinius is surrounded
important task that could determine their by riders who approach him rapidly.
next move in the battle. “He’s ta’en” implies that Titinius has been
It reveals the strong bond between Cassius captured by the approaching horsemen,
and Titinius, as Cassius depends on Titinius’s leading to Pindarus’s assumption of defeat.
bravery and judgment to navigate the “And hark, they shout for joy” suggests that
uncertainties of war. Pindarus interprets the horsemen’s cheers as
(v) Cassius’s decision to send Titinius was a a celebration of capturing Titinius, further
reasonable choice, as gaining information fueling his misinterpretation.
about the approaching troops was crucial to (ii) Pindarus describes the unfolding events with
making an informed decision. urgency and emotion, as he observes Titinius
However, the risks involved, including the being surrounded and seemingly captured.

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What does this imagery foreshadow about 20. Read the following extract and answer the
the fate of Brutus and the conspirators? questions that follow:
(v) Do you think Cassius’s death could have been Messala:
avoided? Mistrust of good success hath done this deed.
Support your answer with reference to the O hateful error, melancholy’s child,
events surrounding this scene. Why dost thou show to the apt thoughts of men
The things that are not? O error, soon conceived,
Ans
Thou never com’st unto a happy birth,
(i) Titinius means that Cassius has taken his But kill’st the mother that engender’d thee!
own life, believing that Titinius had failed in (i) What does Messala mean by “Mistrust of
his mission. good success hath done this deed”?
The line “O setting sun, as in thy red rays Explain “O hateful error, melancholy’s child.”
thou dost sink to-night” compares the sunset What does Messala mean by “Thou never
to the end of Cassius’s life, symbolizing his com’st unto a happy birth”?
tragic death. (ii) How does Messala describe error as
“The sun of Rome is set” implies that “melancholy’s child”?
Cassius’s death marks the end of their cause What does he mean by “The things that are
and hope, as he was a central figure in their not”?
fight. How does this reflect the theme of
(ii) Titinius relates Cassius’s death to mistrust, miscommunication in the play?
as Cassius misinterpreted the situation and (iii) How does this moment highlight the tragedy
believed Titinius had been captured by the of Cassius’s death?
enemy. What earlier actions led to this
By saying, “Mistrust of my success hath misunderstanding?
done this deed,” Titinius acknowledges that (iv) How does Messala’s speech contribute to the
Cassius’s lack of faith in him led to his tone of the scene?
premature death. What does this speech suggest about the
This moment reflects the theme of consequences of mistrust and error?
miscommunication, as Cassius’s incorrect (v) Do you think Cassius’s mistrust was justified?
assumption results in a tragic and unnecessary Support your answer with reference to his
loss. personality and the events surrounding this
(iii) This extract highlights Titinius’s loyalty as scene.
he mourns Cassius deeply and blames himself Ans
for Cassius’s death.
Earlier in the play, Titinius is shown as a (i) Messala means that Cassius’s mistrust and
dedicated ally who willingly follows Cassius’s assumption of failure led him to take his own
orders and supports him throughout the life prematurely.
conspirators’ struggles. The phrase “O hateful error, melancholy’s
(iv) The imagery of the setting sun symbolizes child” describes error as being born out of
the end of hope and the decline of the sadness and overthinking, suggesting it
conspirators’ cause, creating a tone of despair thrives in moments of despair.
and inevitability. “Thou never com’st unto a happy birth”
This imagery foreshadows the defeat of means that errors, once conceived, lead only
Brutus and the conspirators, emphasizing the to negative outcomes and destruction, as seen
futility of their rebellion and the downfall of in Cassius’s tragic death.
their ideals. (ii) Messala describes error as “melancholy’s
(v) Cassius’s death could have been avoided if child” to emphasize that mistakes often arise
he had waited for confirmation of Titinius’s from sadness and irrational fears.
success. His impulsiveness and mistrust led to “The things that are not” refers to false
a misunderstanding that cost him his life. perceptions and assumptions that appear real
This reflects Cassius’s tragic flaw of in moments of emotional distress, leading to
overreacting under pressure, which undermines disastrous outcomes.
his otherwise strategic and calculated nature. This reflects the theme of miscommunication
in the play, as Cassius’s misunderstanding of

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

and negotiation, allowing the characters (v) Do you think Cassius’s reflection on the
to exchange words and assess each other’s possibility of losing the battle demonstrates
resolve before the battle begins. pragmatism or pessimism?
(iv) This extract foreshadows the discord within Support your answer with reference to his
Antony and Octavius’s alliance, hinting at character and his role in the play.
future struggles for dominance after their Ans
victory.
(i) “The gods today stand friendly that we may,
Their disagreement also contrasts with the
lovers in peace, lead on our days to age”
conspirators’ deteriorating unity, emphasizing
means Cassius hopes the gods favor them,
the inevitability of conflict and betrayal in
allowing him and Brutus to live peacefully
their pursuit of power.
into old age.
(v) Octavius seems better suited for leadership
By “the affairs of men rests still incertain,”
in this moment, as his decisiveness and
Cassius acknowledges the unpredictability of
willingness to challenge Antony reflect his
human events and the uncertainty of their
confidence and independence.
fate.
However, Antony’s experience and tactical
“If we do lose this battle, then is this the very
command highlight his competence, though
last time we shall speak together” reflects
his dismissive attitude toward Octavius
Cassius’s acceptance that their defeat in
suggests overconfidence that could weaken
battle would mean their final parting.
their alliance.
(ii) Cassius expresses his concerns by
11. Read the following extract and answer the contemplating the worst-case scenario,
questions that follow: recognizing the stakes of the battle and the
Cassius: possibility of their loss.
Now, most noble Brutus, This reveals his awareness of fate’s
The gods today stand friendly that we may, unpredictability and his pragmatic approach
Lovers in peace, lead on our days to age. to addressing uncertainty.
But since the affairs of men rests still incertain, Cassius’s tone reflects the tension and gravity
Let’s reason with the worst that may befall. of the moment, as he balances hope with the
If we do lose this battle, then is this acknowledgment of potential failure.
The very last time we shall speak together. (iii) This moment reflects the bond between
(i) What does Cassius mean by “The gods today Brutus and Cassius, as they share mutual
stand friendly that we may, lovers in peace, respect and a deep understanding of the
lead on our days to age”? challenges they face together.
What does Cassius imply by “the affairs of Earlier events, such as their reconciliation
men rests still incertain”? after a heated argument and their shared
Explain “If we do lose this battle, then is this leadership of the conspiracy, highlight their
the very last time we shall speak together.” complicated but loyal relationship.
(ii) How does Cassius express his concerns about (iv) This extract reflects the theme of fate and
the upcoming battle? free will, as Cassius contemplates the role
What does this reveal about his perspective of chance in their lives while acknowledging
on fate and uncertainty? their agency in choosing to confront their
How does Cassius’s tone reflect the tension of enemies.
the moment? It reveals the mindset of the conspirators as
(iii) How does this moment reflect the bond they prepare for battle, balancing hope for
between Brutus and Cassius? victory with the acceptance of possible defeat.
What earlier events in the play highlight (v) Cassius’s reflection on the possibility of losing
their relationship and the challenges they face the battle demonstrates pragmatism, as he
together? considers realistic outcomes and prepares for
(iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of the consequences of their decisions.
fate and free will in the play? This aligns with his character as a practical
What does this reveal about the mindset of and strategic thinker, contrasting with
the conspirators as they prepare for battle? Brutus’s idealistic and principled approach to
leadership.

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22. Read the following extract and answer the This moment heightens the tension by showing
questions that follow: the dire consequences of missteps and the
Titinius: precarious position of the conspirators’ forces.
O Cassius, Brutus gave the word too early, (iii) This extract reflects the challenges of
Who, having some advantage on Octavius, leadership and decision-making, as Brutus’s
Took it too eagerly. His soldiers fell to spoil, premature action undermines their strategic
Whilst we by Antony are all enclosed. advantage.
(i) What does Titinius mean by “Brutus gave Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s decision to
the word too early”? allow Antony to speak at Caesar’s funeral,
What is implied by “His soldiers fell to spoil”? foreshadow his tendency to act based on
Explain “Whilst we by Antony are all principle or emotion rather than careful
enclosed.” planning.
(ii) How does Titinius describe the consequences (iv) This moment reflects the theme of loyalty and
of Brutus’s decision during the battle? the fragility of alliances, as Brutus’s actions
What does this reveal about the coordination unintentionally weaken their forces and strain
and communication among the conspirators? their unity.
How does this moment heighten the tension It reveals the dynamics of miscommunication
of the scene? and conflicting leadership styles between
(iii) How does this extract reflect the challenges of Brutus and Cassius, contributing to their
leadership and decision-making in battle? downfall.
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow (v) Titinius’s criticism of Brutus’s decision is fair,
Brutus’s tendency to act impulsively in as the premature attack and lack of discipline
critical situations? among his troops directly contribute to their
(iv) How does this moment reflect the theme of vulnerable position.
loyalty and the fragility of alliances? However, Brutus’s leadership style, rooted in
What does it reveal about the dynamics honor and idealism, suggests that his actions,
between Brutus, Cassius, and their forces? while flawed, were motivated by genuine
(v) Do you think Titinius’s criticism of Brutus’s belief in the righteousness of their cause.
decision is fair?
Support your answer with reference to 23. Read the following extract and answer the
Brutus’s leadership style and the context of questions that follow:
the battle. Cassius:
Titinius, if thou lovest me,
Ans Mount thou my horse and hide thy spurs in him
(i) “Brutus gave the word too early” means Till he have brought thee up to yonder troops
that Brutus prematurely ordered an attack, And here again, that I may rest assured
disrupting the timing of their strategy. Whether yond troops are friend or enemy.
“His soldiers fell to spoil” implies that (i) What does Cassius mean by “Mount thou my
Brutus’s troops became distracted by looting horse and hide thy spurs in him”?
instead of maintaining discipline and focus on Why does Cassius ask Titinius to ride to
the battle. “yond troops”?
“Whilst we by Antony are all enclosed” Explain “That I may rest assured whether
suggests that Antony’s forces surrounded yond troops are friend or enemy.”
Cassius’s troops while Brutus’s soldiers were (ii) How does this moment reflect Cassius’s
preoccupied, leaving them vulnerable. concern for the uncertainty of the battlefield?
(ii) Titinius describes the consequences of What does Cassius’s request reveal about his
Brutus’s decision as a breakdown in leadership and reliance on Titinius?
coordination, where Brutus’s soldiers lost How does this moment build tension in the
focus and Cassius’s forces were surrounded. scene?
This reveals a lack of effective communication (iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to
and unity among the conspirators, highlighting highlight the chaos and unpredictability of war?
the challenges of maintaining cohesion in What earlier events in the play foreshadow
battle. the challenges Cassius faces in this moment?

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Explain “Forever and forever farewell, leadership of the conspiracy, demonstrate

Cassius.” their loyalty and mutual respect despite their
(ii) How does Brutus express his resolve in this differences.
extract? (iv) This extract reflects the themes of fate,
What does this reveal about his views on loyalty, and the inevitability of consequences,
honor and dignity? as Brutus acknowledges the culmination of
How does this moment reflect the gravity of their choices and their shared commitment to
the battle they face? their cause.
(iii) How does this exchange highlight the bond It reveals Brutus’s acceptance of fate and his
between Brutus and Cassius? focus on maintaining his principles as he faces
What earlier moments in the play demonstrate the uncertainties of battle and the potential
their loyalty and mutual respect? consequences of their actions.
(iv) How does this extract reflect the themes (v) Brutus’s decision to reject the possibility of
of fate, loyalty, and the inevitability of being taken captive aligns with his character
consequences? and values, as he consistently prioritizes
What does this reveal about Brutus’s mindset honor and dignity over compromise.
as the battle approaches? This decision reflects his adherence to stoic
(v) Do you think Brutus’s decision to reject the principles and his desire to preserve his legacy
possibility of being taken captive aligns with as a noble and principled leader, even in the
his character and values? face of defeat.
Support your answer with reference to his
principles and the events of the play. 14. Read the following extract and answer the
questions that follow:
Ans Cassius:
(i) “Think not, thou noble Roman, that ever Forever and forever farewell, Brutus.
Brutus will go bound to Rome” means that If we do meet again, we’ll smile indeed;
Brutus refuses to be captured and paraded as If not, ’tis true this parting was well made.
a prisoner, valuing his dignity over survival. Brutus:
“But this same day must end that work the Why then, lead on.—O, that a man might know
ides of March begun” signifies that the battle The end of this day’s business ere it come!
at Philippi is the culmination of the events But it sufficeth that the day will end,
that began with Caesar’s assassination, And then the end is known.—Come ho, away!
determining the fate of their cause. (i) What does Cassius mean by “Forever and
“Forever and forever farewell, Cassius” forever farewell, Brutus”?
reflects the finality of Brutus’s farewell to What does Cassius imply by “If we do meet
Cassius, acknowledging the possibility that again, we’ll smile indeed; if not, ’tis true this
they may not survive the battle. parting was well made”?
(ii) Brutus expresses his resolve by declaring his Explain “O, that a man might know the end
refusal to be taken captive and his acceptance of this day’s business ere it come!”
of the potential end of their mission. (ii) How does this exchange reflect the gravity of
This reveals his unwavering commitment the situation between Brutus and Cassius?
to honor and dignity, as he prioritizes his What does Brutus mean by “it sufficeth that
principles over his life. the day will end, and then the end is known”?
This moment reflects the gravity of the How does this moment highlight their
battle, as Brutus and Cassius prepare for a acceptance of uncertainty?
confrontation that will determine their fate (iii) How does this farewell between Brutus and
and legacy. Cassius reflect their bond and mutual respect?
(iii) This exchange highlights the bond between What earlier moments in the play highlight
Brutus and Cassius, as they share a heartfelt their relationship and the challenges they
and respectful farewell in the face of have faced together?
uncertainty. (iv) How does Brutus’s reflection on the
Earlier moments, such as their reconciliation uncertainty of the day reflect the theme of
after their argument and their shared fate versus free will?

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This reveals the challenges of interpreting What does he mean by “The sun of Rome is
events during the chaos of battle, where set”?
visibility and context are often limited. How does this moment highlight the
This moment heightens the tension for consequences of miscommunication?
Cassius and the audience, as Pindarus’s (iii) How does Shakespeare use imagery in this
report suggests the imminent collapse of their passage to convey the gravity of Cassius’s
efforts. death?
(iii) This extract reflects the theme of What earlier events in the play foreshadow
miscommunication and its consequences, as this tragic outcome?
Pindarus’s assumption about Titinius’s fate (iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of trust
leads to a tragic misunderstanding. and its breakdown among the conspirators?
Earlier events, such as Brutus’s premature What does this reveal about the emotional
attack and the conspirators’ failure to fully toll of the battle on Cassius and Titinius?
anticipate Antony’s response, foreshadow (v) Do you think Cassius’s death was inevitable
the impact of misinterpretation on critical given the circumstances of the battle and his
outcomes. character?
(iv) This moment reflects the loyalty and risks Support your answer with reference to the
associated with Titinius’s mission, as he play’s exploration of fate, misjudgment, and
willingly undertakes a dangerous task to honor.
support Cassius.
Ans
It reveals the immense pressures faced by
those supporting Cassius and Brutus, as (i) “Cassius is no more” means that Cassius
they navigate the unpredictable and perilous has died, having taken his own life after
dynamics of battle. mistakenly believing that Titinius had been
(v) Pindarus’s interpretation of Titinius’s captured.
capture was understandable based on what The metaphor “O setting sun, as in thy
he observed, as the cheering horsemen and red rays thou dost sink to night” compares
surrounding riders suggested a defeat. Cassius’s death to the sunset, symbolizing the
However, the challenges of war, including end of his life and his influence.
limited visibility and the complexity of “Mistrust of my success hath done this deed”
events, highlight the theme of perception means that Cassius’s premature assumption
versus reality and the consequences of acting of Titinius’s failure led to his tragic decision
on incomplete information. to end his own life.

25. Read the following extract and answer the (ii) Titinius expresses his grief through poetic
questions that follow: language, comparing Cassius’s death to the
Titinius: setting sun, emphasizing the loss of a great
No, this was he, Messala, leader.
But Cassius is no more. O setting sun, “The sun of Rome is set” symbolizes the fall
As in thy red rays thou dost sink to night, of Cassius and the decline of their cause, as
So in his red blood Cassius’ day is set. he was a central figure in their efforts.
The sun of Rome is set. Our day is gone; This moment highlights the consequences
Clouds, dews, and dangers come. Our deeds are of miscommunication, as Cassius’s
done. misunderstanding of Titinius’s success results
Mistrust of my success hath done this deed. in his unnecessary death.
(i) What does Titinius mean by “Cassius is no (iii) Shakespeare uses imagery of the setting
more”? sun and red blood to convey the gravity of
What does the metaphor “O setting sun, as in Cassius’s death and its symbolic impact on
thy red rays thou dost sink to night” signify? their cause.
Explain “Mistrust of my success hath done Earlier events, such as the conspirators’ failure
this deed.” to maintain unity and the chaotic nature of
(ii) How does Titinius express his grief over their battle strategy, foreshadow this tragic
Cassius’s death in this extract? outcome.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

Antony: Earlier events, such as Caesar’s assassination

Octavius, lead your battle softly on and the rise of the triumvirate against the
Upon the left hand of the even field. conspirators, have built up to this pivotal
(i) What does the Messenger mean by “The moment of confrontation at Philippi.
enemy comes on in gallant show”? (iv) Antony’s instruction to Octavius highlights
What is meant by “Their bloody sign of their differing leadership dynamics, as
battle is hung out”? Antony assumes a guiding role, reflecting his
Explain “And something to be done experience and strategic mindset.
immediately.” This reveals the complexities of their alliance,
(ii) How does Antony instruct Octavius in this as Octavius’s youth and ambition contrast
extract? with Antony’s pragmatism, creating subtle
What does “lead your battle softly on” tensions in their partnership.
suggest about Antony’s strategy? (v) Antony’s confidence in this moment is
How does this moment reflect Antony’s role justified, as his leadership and experience
as a leader? have positioned their forces to confront the
(iii) How does this moment reflect the urgency enemy effectively.
and tension of the approaching battle? However, the unpredictable nature of battle
What earlier events in the play have led to and the potential for miscommunication or
this pivotal moment? strategic errors highlight the challenges they
(iv) How does Antony’s instruction to Octavius face, requiring both caution and adaptability.
highlight their differing leadership dynamics?
What does this reveal about the complexities
of their alliance?
(v) Do you think Antony’s confidence in this 4. Read the following extract and answer the
moment is justified? questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to his Brutus:
leadership and the challenges they face. Good words are better than bad strokes, Octavius.
Antony:
Ans
In your bad strokes, Brutus, you give good words.
(i) “The enemy comes on in gallant show” Witness the hole you made in Caesar’s heart,
means that the opposing army, led by Brutus Crying “Long live, hail, Caesar!”
and Cassius, is advancing with a display of Cassius:
courage and organization. Antony,
“Their bloody sign of battle is hung out” The posture of your blows are yet unknown,
refers to the enemy raising a signal or banner But, for your words, they rob the Hybla bees
indicating their readiness and intent to fight. And leave them honeyless.
“And something to be done immediately” (i) What does Brutus mean by “Good words are
suggests that the generals must act quickly to better than bad strokes”?
respond to the imminent battle. What does Antony mean by “In your bad
(ii) Antony instructs Octavius to take charge of strokes, Brutus, you give good words”?
the left flank of their forces, ensuring their Explain “The posture of your blows are yet
formation is prepared for the enemy’s advance. unknown, but, for your words, they rob the
“Lead your battle softly on” suggests a Hybla bees and leave them honeyless.”
cautious and deliberate approach, emphasizing (ii) How does Antony criticize Brutus’s actions in
strategic positioning rather than rushing into this extract?
action. What does Cassius imply about Antony’s
This moment reflects Antony’s leadership as rhetoric?
calm and calculated, prioritizing thoughtful How does this exchange reflect the tension
strategy over impulsive decisions. between the two opposing sides?
(iii) This moment reflects the urgency and tension (iii) How does this moment highlight the theme of
of the approaching battle, as both sides words versus actions in the play?
prepare for a decisive confrontation that will What earlier moments demonstrate the power
determine the outcome of their conflict. of rhetoric and the consequences of action?

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news with dignity, but the loss of Cassius of honor, as he prepares to take his life to
underscores the immense strain of leadership uphold his loyalty and dignity.
during war. (ii) Titinius expresses his grief by blaming himself
for Cassius’s death and choosing to join him
in death as a final act of loyalty and solidarity.
His use of Cassius’s sword symbolizes his
respect for Cassius and his acceptance of
27. Read the following extract and answer the the Roman tradition of using the sword as a
questions that follow: means of honorable death.
Titinius: This moment reflects the profound bond between
Thy Brutus bid me give it thee, and I Titinius and Cassius, as Titinius cannot bear to
Will do his bidding.-Brutus, come apace, live after witnessing Cassius’s demise.
And see how I regarded Caius Cassius.- (iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to highlight
By your leave, gods, this is a Roman’s part. the themes of honor and loyalty in Roman
Come, Cassius’ sword, and find Titinius’ heart! culture, where death is often seen as preferable
(i) What does Titinius mean by “Thy Brutus bid to dishonor or failure.
me give it thee”? Earlier moments, such as the conspirators’
What does Titinius imply by “And see how I commitment to their cause and Brutus’s
regarded Caius Cassius”? stoic philosophy, foreshadow the emphasis on
Explain “By your leave, gods, this is a honor that drives Titinius’s actions.
Roman’s part.” (iv) This extract reflects the personal and
(ii) How does Titinius express his grief over collective toll of the battle, as the conspirators
Cassius’s death in this extract? face the emotional weight of their choices and
What does Titinius’s use of Cassius’s sword the loss of their comrades.
symbolize? Titinius’s decision reveals his unwavering
How does this moment reflect the bond loyalty to Cassius and his adherence to the
between Titinius and Cassius? Roman ideals of honor, even at the cost of
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to his own life.
highlight the themes of honor and loyalty in (v) Titinius’s decision to end his life seems
Roman culture? inevitable given the circumstances, as his
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow loyalty to Cassius and the guilt he feels over
Titinius’s actions? the misunderstanding that led to Cassius’s
(iv) How does this extract reflect the personal death drive his actions.
and collective toll of the battle on the The broader themes of the play, including
conspirators? loyalty, honor, and the consequences of
What does Titinius’s decision reveal about political ambition, underscore the tragic
his values and his perception of his role? inevitability of Titinius’s choice.
(v) Do you think Titinius’s decision to end his life
28. Read the following extract and answer the
was inevitable given the circumstances?
questions that follow:
Support your answer with reference to his
Brutus:
loyalty to Cassius and the broader themes of
His funerals shall not be in our camp,
the play.
Lest it discomfort us.-Lucilius, come.-
Ans And come, young Cato. Let us to the field.-
(i) “Thy Brutus bid me give it thee” means Labeo and Flavius, set our battles on.
that Brutus had tasked Titinius with a ’Tis three o’clock, and, Romans, yet ere night
responsibility or a symbolic action related to We shall try fortune in a second fight.
Cassius. (i) Why does Brutus say “His funerals shall not
“And see how I regarded Caius Cassius” be in our camp”?
implies that Titinius is about to demonstrate What does Brutus mean by “Lest it discomfort
the depth of his respect and loyalty to Cassius. us”?
“By your leave, gods, this is a Roman’s part” Explain “We shall try fortune in a second
reflects Titinius’s belief in the Roman ideal fight.”

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

high stakes and critical timing of the battle, (ii) How does Brutus’s instruction reflect his
emphasizing the need for swift and decisive strategic thinking in the battle?
action. What role does Messala play in executing
(ii) Brutus’s instruction highlights his proactive Brutus’s strategy?
leadership as he focuses on communication How does this moment highlight the urgency
and strategy to maintain order and cohesion of the situation?
during the battle. (iii) How does Brutus’s assessment of Octavius’s
This reveals his ability to coordinate multiple wing reflect his confidence in the battle?
elements of their forces and his reliance on What earlier moments in the play foreshadow
trusted allies like Messala to execute his Brutus’s ability to adapt and lead under
commands. pressure?
Messala’s role as a messenger supports (iv) How does this moment reflect the themes of
Brutus’s command by ensuring that his leadership and decision-making in the play?
instructions reach the legions promptly, What does this reveal about Brutus’s strengths
contributing to their overall strategy. and potential vulnerabilities as a leader?
(iii) This moment reflects the tension and stakes (v) Do you think Brutus’s decision to act on his
of the battle, as Brutus’s urgency underscores observation of Octavius’s forces is justified?
the importance of timely decisions and Support your answer with reference to his
effective coordination. leadership style and the context of the battle.
Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s
Ans
deliberations on strategy and his commitment
to leading with integrity, foreshadow his (i) “Let them set on at once” means that Brutus
ability to remain focused under pressure. orders an immediate attack, emphasizing the
(iv) Brutus’s reliance on Messala and the legions need for quick action.
reflects the theme of trust and collaboration, “Cold demeanor in Octavius’ wing” implies
as effective communication and unity are that Brutus observes weakness or hesitation
essential in chaotic environments. in Octavius’s forces, suggesting they may be
This reveals the challenges of leading in a vulnerable to an assault.
divided and chaotic environment, as Brutus “And sudden push gives them the overthrow”
must balance strategy, trust, and the reflects Brutus’s belief that a swift and
unpredictability of war. decisive attack will defeat Octavius’s forces.
(v) Brutus’s decision to act quickly in this moment (ii) Brutus’s instruction reflects his strategic
is effective, as it demonstrates his ability to thinking, as he capitalizes on perceived
prioritize and adapt to the demands of battle, weaknesses in the enemy to gain an advantage.
ensuring coordination among his forces. Messala plays a key role in executing Brutus’s
However, the chaotic nature of the battlefield strategy by delivering his orders to the troops,
and the potential for miscommunication ensuring coordination and swift action.
highlight the limitations of even the most This moment highlights the urgency of
well-intentioned leadership strategies. the situation, as Brutus recognizes the
importance of acting quickly to exploit the
16. Read the following extract and answer the enemy’s vulnerabilities.
questions that follow: (iii) Brutus’s assessment of Octavius’s wing
Brutus: reflects his confidence in their ability to
Let them set on at once, for I perceive achieve a victory through decisive action and
But cold demeanor in Octavius’ wing, strategic insight.
And sudden push gives them the overthrow. Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s leadership
Ride, ride, Messala! Let them all come down. in the conspiracy and his calm demeanor under
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Let them set on pressure, foreshadow his capability to adapt
at once”? and lead effectively in critical situations.
What does “cold demeanor in Octavius’ (iv) This moment reflects the themes of leadership
wing” imply about Brutus’s observation? and decision-making, as Brutus demonstrates
Explain “And sudden push gives them the his ability to assess the battlefield and make
overthrow.” swift strategic choices.

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(v) Do you think Cato’s decision to proclaim may make him a target, highlighting the
his identity during the battle demonstrates tension between honor and pragmatism in
bravery or recklessness? the play.
Support your answer with reference to his
character and the play’s themes of honor and 30. Read the following extract and answer the
resistance. questions that follow:
Lucilius:
Ans And I am Brutus, Marcus Brutus, I!
(i) “What bastard doth not? Who will go with Brutus, my country’s friend! Know me for Brutus.
me?” means that Cato challenges others to O young and noble Cato, art thou down?
join him in fighting bravely, suggesting that Why, now thou diest as bravely as Titinius
any true Roman would rise to the occasion. And mayst be honored, being Cato’s son.
“I am the son of Marcus Cato, ho” reflects (i) What does Lucilius mean by “And I am
Cato’s pride in his lineage, emphasizing his Brutus, Marcus Brutus, I!”?
identity as the son of a respected Roman Why does Lucilius refer to Brutus as “my
statesman and defender of liberty. country’s friend”?
“A foe to tyrants and my country’s friend” Explain “O young and noble Cato, art thou
declares Cato’s allegiance to the ideals of down?”
freedom and opposition to tyranny, reinforcing (ii) How does Lucilius express his loyalty to
his role as a loyal patriot. Brutus in this extract?
(ii) Cato expresses his pride and resolve by boldly What does Lucilius mean by comparing
declaring his name and values, signaling his Cato’s death to Titinius’s bravery?
willingness to stand firm in the face of danger. How does this moment reflect the chaos and
His declaration reveals a strong sense of sacrifices of the battle?
identity and duty, rooted in his family’s legacy (iii) How does Shakespeare use Lucilius’s
and his commitment to Rome’s republican declaration to highlight the themes of loyalty
ideals. and deception?
This moment reflects the intensity of the What earlier moments in the play demonstrate
battle, as Cato’s speech underscores the high Lucilius’s commitment to Brutus and their
stakes and the personal convictions driving cause?
the combatants. (iv) How does this extract reflect the theme of
(iii) Shakespeare uses Cato’s speech to highlight honor in the play?
themes of honor and legacy, emphasizing the What does Lucilius’s willingness to risk his
importance of standing for principles even in life reveal about his values and role among
the face of overwhelming odds. the conspirators?
Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s justification (v) Do you think Lucilius’s decision to
for Caesar’s assassination and Cassius’s impersonate Brutus demonstrates selflessness
appeals to freedom, underscore similar values or strategy?
of loyalty and resistance to tyranny. Support your answer with reference to his
(iv) This extract reflects Cato’s belief in self- loyalty to Brutus and the play’s themes of
sacrifice and commitment to Rome’s ideals, sacrifice and duty.
as he proclaims his identity and prepares to Ans
fight, regardless of the risks. (i) “And I am Brutus, Marcus Brutus, I!” means
It reveals the influence of his father’s legacy, that Lucilius pretends to be Brutus to mislead
as Cato seeks to emulate Marcus Cato’s the enemy and protect the real Brutus.
dedication to republican values and opposition Lucilius refers to Brutus as “my country’s
to tyranny. friend” to emphasize Brutus’s dedication to
(v) Cato’s decision to proclaim his identity during the welfare of Rome and his selfless intentions
the battle demonstrates bravery, as it reflects in opposing Caesar.
his courage and unwavering commitment to “O young and noble Cato, art thou down?”
Rome’s ideals, even at great personal risk. reflects Lucilius’s sorrow and admiration for
However, it could also be seen as reckless, as Cato’s bravery as he falls in battle, honoring
announcing his presence on the battlefield his noble lineage.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

O, coward that I am, to live so long, (iii) Pindarus is a servant whom Cassius captured
To see my best friend ta’en before my face! in Parthia and spared, in exchange for an
[Pindarus descends] oath of loyalty.
Come hither, sirrah: Pindarus reluctantly follows Cassius’s
In Parthia did I take thee prisoner; command and kills him with the sword, after
And then I swore thee, saving of thy life, which he flees, declaring himself a free man.
That whatsoever I did bid thee do, (iv) This moment reflects Cassius’s despair and
Thou shouldst attempt it. Come now, keep thine his impulsive nature. He is overcome with
oath; guilt, fear, and a sense of failure, leading him
Now be a freeman and with this good sword, to take his own life.
That ran through Caesar’s bowels, search this Earlier events, such as the assassination of
bosom. Caesar, the conspirators’ fallout, and the
(i) Who is Cassius speaking to, and what is the ongoing civil war, culminate in this tragic
situation? moment, where Cassius misinterprets the
Explain “O, coward that I am, to live so long, situation and acts out of hopelessness.
to see my best friend ta’en before my face!” (v) Cassius’s actions are unjustified as they result
(ii) What does Cassius mean by “Come now, from a misunderstanding about Titinius’s
keep thine oath”? capture. His impulsiveness causes him to take
Why does he refer to the sword as “this good his life unnecessarily.
sword that ran through Caesar’s bowels”? This moment also reveals his overwhelming
(iii) Who is Pindarus, and what oath did he make guilt and despair, as he feels responsible for
to Cassius? the perceived failure of their cause, making
How does Pindarus respond to Cassius’s his reaction tragic but relatable.
command?
(iv) How does this moment reflect Cassius’s 19. Read the following extract and answer the
character and his state of mind? questions that follow:
What earlier events in the play lead to this Titinius:
point? No, this was he, Messala,
(v) Do you think Cassius’s actions in this scene But Cassius is no more. O setting sun,
are justified? As in thy red rays thou dost sink to-night,
Support your answer with reference to So in his red blood Cassius’ day is set;
Cassius’s relationship with Brutus and the The sun of Rome is set! Our day is gone;
events of the play. Clouds, dews, and dangers come; our deeds are
done!
Ans Mistrust of my success hath done this deed.
(i) Cassius is speaking to Pindarus, his servant. (i) What does Titinius mean by “Cassius is no
The situation occurs during the battle of more”?
Philippi, where Cassius believes his forces are Explain “O setting sun, as in thy red rays
defeated and that Titinius, his best friend, thou dost sink to-night.”
has been captured. What does Titinius imply by “The sun of
By saying, “O, coward that I am, to live so Rome is set”?
long, to see my best friend ta’en before my (ii) How does Titinius relate Cassius’s death to
face,” Cassius laments his perceived failure mistrust?
and inability to protect Titinius, blaming What does he mean by “Mistrust of my
himself for his cowardice. success hath done this deed”?
(ii) “Come now, keep thine oath” refers to the How does this moment reflect the theme of
promise Pindarus made to obey Cassius’s miscommunication?
commands after Cassius spared his life in (iii) How does this extract highlight the loyalty of
Parthia. Titinius to Cassius?
Cassius calls the weapon “this good sword that What earlier actions in the play demonstrate
ran through Caesar’s bowels” to highlight the Titinius’s dedication?
irony that the same sword used to kill Caesar (iv) How does the imagery of the setting sun
will now be used to end his own life. enhance the tone of this moment?

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This reveals Lucilius’s deep understanding of By “A prize no less in worth,” Antony

Brutus’s character, as he recognizes Brutus’s acknowledges Lucilius’s loyalty and bravery,
unwavering adherence to his principles. suggesting that such qualities make him
(v) Lucilius’s belief that Brutus’s death would valuable even as a captive.
preserve his honor is consistent with Brutus’s “I had rather have such men my friends than
ideals, as Brutus values dignity and moral enemies” means that Antony recognizes the
integrity above all else. importance of having loyal and courageous
However, some might argue that Brutus’s individuals as allies rather than adversaries.
death represents the failure of his cause, as (ii) Antony orders that Lucilius be treated with
his rigid adherence to his principles prevents kindness and respect, ensuring his safety
him from adapting to the complexities of despite being an enemy.
leadership and survival. This reveals Antony’s pragmatic leadership
style, as he values loyalty and seeks to convert
32. Read the following extract and answer the potential threats into allies.
questions that follow: Antony wants confirmation of Brutus’s status
Antony: to determine the outcome of the battle and
This is not Brutus, friend, but I assure you, assess the future of the conflict.
A prize no less in worth keep this man safe; (iii) This moment reflects Antony’s pragmatism
Give him all kindness I had rather have and his ability to value loyalty, even in
Such men my friends than enemies. Go on, enemies, as a tool for consolidating power.
And see whether Brutus be alive or dead; Earlier events, such as Antony’s manipulation
And bring us word unto Octavius’ tent of the Roman crowd during Caesar’s funeral,
How everything is chanced. demonstrate his understanding of human
(i) Who is Antony speaking to, and who is the behavior and his skill in turning situations to
“man” he refers to? his advantage.
What does Antony mean by “A prize no less (iv) This extract foreshadows Antony and
in worth”? Octavius’s rise to power, as Antony’s strategic
Explain “I had rather have such men my approach to enemies and allies ensures
friends than enemies.” stability in their rule.
(ii) How does Antony treat the man who has Antony’s approach reveals his long-term
been captured? strategy of building alliances and neutralizing
What does this reveal about Antony’s threats through diplomacy and respect,
leadership style? rather than brute force alone.
Why does Antony want confirmation of (v) Antony’s actions in this moment are motivated
Brutus’s status? more by strategy than kindness. His decision
(iii) How does this moment reflect Antony’s to spare Lucilius reflects his desire to gain
pragmatism and ability to value loyalty? loyal followers and reduce opposition.
What earlier events in the play highlight However, his recognition of Lucilius’s bravery
Antony’s understanding of human behavior? also highlights Antony’s ability to appreciate
(iv) How does this extract foreshadow the and reward admirable qualities, even in his
eventual outcome of Antony and Octavius’s adversaries, further showcasing his political
rise to power? acumen.
What does Antony’s approach to enemies and
33. Read the following extract and answer the
allies reveal about his long-term strategy?
(v) Do you think Antony’s actions in this moment questions that follow:
are motivated by kindness or strategy? Antony:
Support your answer with reference to his This is not Brutus, friend, but I assure you,
character and earlier actions in the play. A prize no less in worth. Keep this man safe.
Give him all kindness. I had rather have
Ans Such men my friends than enemies. Go on,
(i) Antony is speaking to a soldier about Lucilius, And see whe’er Brutus be alive or dead,
who has been captured while pretending to And bring us word unto Octavius’ tent
be Brutus to protect him. How everything is chanced.

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Titinius’s situation results in an unnecessary (v) Do you think Brutus’s expression of grief in
tragedy. this extract is genuine?
(iii) This moment highlights the tragedy of Support your answer with reference to
Cassius’s death as a result of a misjudgment Brutus’s character and his relationship with
born from mistrust and despair. the person he mourns.
Earlier, Cassius mistakenly believed that
Ans
Titinius had been captured by the enemy,
leading him to take his own life in a moment (i) Brutus is referring to Cassius, who has died
of impulsive hopelessness. by suicide after mistakenly believing that
(iv) Messala’s speech adds a tone of sorrow and their side had lost the battle.
reflection, emphasizing the devastating By “The last of all the Romans, fare thee
consequences of mistrust and misjudgment. well,” Brutus means that Cassius embodies
The speech suggests that error and the ideals of Roman virtue and honor, and no
mistrust, once conceived, lead to irreversible one will ever equal his character.
consequences, as seen in the death of Cassius “I owe more tears to this dead man than you
and the crumbling of the conspirators’ cause. shall see me pay” indicates that Brutus feels
(v) Cassius’s mistrust was not justified, as it was deep sorrow but will not openly display it,
based on a misunderstanding of Titinius’s reflecting his restrained nature.
situation. His impulsiveness and inability to (ii) Brutus expresses his grief with solemnity
verify the facts highlight his tragic flaw. and respect, highlighting his admiration for
While his fears reflect his deep sense of Cassius’s qualities as a noble Roman.
responsibility for their cause, his lack of trust “It is impossible that ever Rome should breed
ultimately undermines the unity and strength thy fellow” means that Cassius was unique in
of the conspirators. his loyalty and values, and no one will ever
match his greatness.
21. Read the following extract and answer the This moment reflects Brutus’s deep sense
questions that follow: of loss and his recognition of Cassius’s
Brutus: importance, both as a friend and as an ally in
Are yet two Romans living such as these? their shared cause.
The last of all the Romans, fare thee well! (iii) Brutus’s restrained reaction highlights
It is impossible that ever Rome his adherence to Stoic philosophy, which
Should breed thy fellow. Friends, I owe more tears emphasizes emotional control and rationality
To this dead man than you shall see me pay. in the face of adversity.
(i) Who is Brutus referring to in this extract, Earlier moments, such as his response to
and what has happened to him? Portia’s death, demonstrate Brutus’s ability
What does Brutus mean by “The last of all to suppress his grief and prioritize his duties
the Romans, fare thee well”? over personal emotions.
Explain “I owe more tears to this dead man (iv) This moment foreshadows Brutus’s own
than you shall see me pay.” death, as he too will choose suicide to preserve
(ii) How does Brutus express his grief in this his honor rather than face defeat or capture.
extract? It reveals Brutus’s unwavering commitment
What does Brutus mean by “It is impossible to his values and his belief in maintaining
that ever Rome should breed thy fellow”? dignity and integrity, even at the cost of his
How does this moment reflect Brutus’s sense life.
of loss and admiration? (v) Brutus’s expression of grief is genuine, as
(iii) How does Brutus’s reaction highlight his he openly acknowledges his sorrow and
Stoic philosophy? admiration for Cassius, despite suppressing
What earlier moments in the play demonstrate outward displays of emotion.
Brutus’s approach to grief and emotion? His relationship with Cassius, though strained
(iv) How does this moment foreshadow Brutus’s at times, was built on mutual respect and
own fate? loyalty, making this loss particularly poignant
What does this reveal about Brutus’s values for Brutus.
and priorities as a leader?

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(iv) How does Brutus’s reflection on “slaying” His ability to remain composed and provide
highlight his weariness and disillusionment? guidance demonstrates strength, while his
What does this reveal about the toll of war acknowledgment of their grim reality shows
and betrayal on his character? acceptance of their likely defeat.
(v) Do you think Brutus’s resolve in this moment This duality aligns with his stoic philosophy
reflects strength or resignation? and his role as a leader who remains committed
Support your answer with reference to his to his principles, even as circumstances grow
character and the events leading to this scene. increasingly dire.
Ans
35. Read the following extract and answer the
(i) “Come, poor remains of friends, rest on this questions that follow:
rock” means that Brutus acknowledges the Clitus:
few allies he has left and invites them to rest What ill request did Brutus make to thee?
as they face the reality of their situation. Dardanus:
Clitus’s statement, “Statilius showed the To kill him, Clitus. Look, he meditates.
torchlight, but, my lord, he came not back,” Clitus:
suggests that Statilius signaled success but Now is that noble vessel full of grief,
has likely been captured or killed, adding to That it runs over even at his eyes.
their losses. Brutus:
“Slaying is the word; it is a deed in fashion” Come hither, good Volumnius. List a word.
reflects Brutus’s somber acknowledgment of (i) What does Clitus mean by “What ill request
the death and violence surrounding them, did Brutus make to thee”?
expressing his weariness and acceptance of What does Dardanus mean by “To kill him,
their grim reality. Clitus”?
(ii) Brutus addresses the dwindling number of Explain “Now is that noble vessel full of grief,
his allies with a calm and resigned demeanor, that it runs over even at his eyes.”
focusing on providing solace rather than (ii) How does Clitus and Dardanus’s conversation
showing despair. reflect their concern for Brutus?
His tone reveals his weariness and stoic What does this reveal about Brutus’s state
acceptance of their situation, as he tries to of mind?
maintain composure in the face of mounting How does this moment highlight the emotional
losses. toll of the battle on Brutus?
Clitus’s report heightens the tension by (iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to
underscoring the precariousness of their reflect the themes of honor and loyalty?
position and the likelihood of further losses. What earlier events in the play foreshadow
(iii) This extract reflects the themes of loyalty Brutus’s request and his emotional state?
and sacrifice, as Brutus and his remaining (iv) How does Brutus’s behavior reflect his stoic
allies stand together despite their dwindling philosophy and his struggle to reconcile his
numbers and dire circumstances. ideals with his circumstances?
Earlier moments, such as the deaths of Cassius What does his call to Volumnius suggest
and Titinius and the betrayal by allies like about his priorities and relationships in this
Antony, foreshadow the increasing isolation moment?
and challenges Brutus faces here. (v) Do you think Brutus’s decision to seek help in
(iv) Brutus’s reflection on “slaying” highlights ending his life reflects strength, despair, or a
his disillusionment with the violence and loss combination of both?
surrounding him, as he acknowledges the Support your answer with reference to his
pervasive nature of death in their cause. character and the themes of the play.
This reveals the toll of war and betrayal
on his character, as he grapples with the Ans
consequences of his decisions and the fragility (i) “What ill request did Brutus make to thee?”
of his ideals. means that Clitus is shocked and curious
(v) Brutus’s resolve in this moment reflects a about the nature of Brutus’s unusual and
combination of strength and resignation. grave request.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

(ii) Lucilius expresses his loyalty to Brutus (ii) How does Lucilius describe Brutus’s honor in
by risking his life to impersonate him, this extract?
demonstrating his willingness to protect What does the phrase “The gods defend him
Brutus at all costs. from so great a shame” imply about Brutus’s
By comparing Cato’s death to Titinius’s values?
bravery, Lucilius honors their courage and How does Lucilius’s loyalty reflect his
sacrifices for the republican cause, highlighting relationship with Brutus?
their shared dedication. (iii) How does this moment reflect the theme of
This moment reflects the chaos and sacrifices honor and loyalty?
of the battle, as individuals make ultimate What earlier events in the play demonstrate
sacrifices for their ideals and comrades. Brutus’s commitment to these values?
(iii) Shakespeare uses Lucilius’s declaration to (iv) How does Lucilius’s speech foreshadow the
highlight themes of loyalty and deception, fate of Brutus?
as Lucilius’s act of impersonation is both a What does this reveal about Lucilius’s
gesture of allegiance and a tactical maneuver. perception of Brutus’s character?
Earlier moments, such as Lucilius’s (v) Do you agree with Lucilius’s belief that
steadfast support for Brutus during internal Brutus’s death would preserve his honor?
conflicts and his role in maintaining morale, Support your answer with reference to
demonstrate his commitment to their cause. Brutus’s actions and his ideals in the play.
(iv) This extract reflects the theme of honor, as
Ans
Lucilius’s actions embody the Roman ideals
of loyalty, bravery, and self-sacrifice for the (i) Lucilius assures Antony that Brutus is safe,
greater good. either in a physical sense or in terms of his
Lucilius’s willingness to risk his life reveals his honor being intact.
deep respect for Brutus and his dedication to By “No enemy shall ever take alive the noble
preserving the dignity and integrity of their Brutus,” Lucilius implies that Brutus would
mission. rather die than be captured, preserving his
(v) Lucilius’s decision to impersonate Brutus dignity.
demonstrates both selflessness and strategy, “He will be found like Brutus, like himself”
as it reflects his devotion to Brutus while suggests that Brutus will remain true to his
serving as a tactical effort to mislead the principles, whether alive or dead, embodying
enemy. his sense of honor.
This act aligns with the play’s themes of (ii) Lucilius highlights Brutus’s honor by asserting
sacrifice and duty, emphasizing the lengths that he would never surrender to his enemies,
to which individuals will go to protect their valuing his principles over survival.
comrades and uphold their ideals. The phrase “The gods defend him from so
great a shame” reflects Brutus’s commitment
31. Read the following extract and answer the to maintaining his dignity, even in the face
questions that follow: of defeat.
Lucilius: Lucilius’s loyalty to Brutus is evident as he
Safe, Antony; Brutus is safe enough: defends Brutus’s honor and shows unwavering
I dare assure thee that no enemy respect for his character.
Shall ever take alive the noble Brutus: (iii) This moment underscores the themes of honor
The gods defend him from so great a shame! and loyalty, as Lucilius upholds Brutus’s
When you do find him, or alive or dead, values and refuses to allow his legacy to be
He will be found like Brutus, like himself. tarnished.
(i) What does Lucilius mean by “Brutus is safe Earlier in the play, Brutus demonstrates his
enough”? commitment to honor through his decision to
What does Lucilius mean by “No enemy shall assassinate Caesar for what he believes is the
ever take alive the noble Brutus”? greater good of Rome, despite the personal cost.
Explain “He will be found like Brutus, like (iv) Lucilius’s speech foreshadows Brutus’s death,
himself.” as it implies that Brutus will choose suicide
over capture to protect his honor.

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his actions with a sense of inevitability and What does his appeal to Volumnius reveal
acceptance. about their relationship?
This moment reflects Brutus’s acceptance of How does this moment reflect Brutus’s values
fate, as he acknowledges the ghost’s warning and principles?
and prepares himself for the end. (iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to
(iii) Shakespeare uses the ghost of Caesar emphasize the themes of honor and agency in
to emphasize the themes of guilt and the play?
inevitability, portraying it as a manifestation What earlier moments in the play foreshadow
of Brutus’s conscience and the moral weight Brutus’s ultimate decision?
of his decisions. (iv) How does Brutus’s request to Volumnius
Earlier moments, such as the assassination highlight the tension between loyalty and the
itself and Brutus’s soliloquy in the orchard, burden of leadership?
foreshadow the psychological burden and What does this reveal about the emotional
eventual reckoning Brutus experiences. toll of Brutus’s role as a conspirator and
(iv) Brutus’s acknowledgment of his “hour” leader?
reflects his stoic philosophy, as he accepts his (v) Do you think Brutus’s decision to end his life
fate with calm dignity and prepares for his aligns with his stoic philosophy, or does it
final act. reflect despair?
This reveals his understanding of his role in Support your answer with reference to his
the events following Caesar’s assassination, character and the play’s exploration of fate
recognizing the moral and personal costs of and honor.
his decisions.
Ans
(v) Brutus’s belief in the ghost as a harbinger of
his death reflects a combination of superstition (i) “Our enemies have beat us to the pit” means
and guilt. His stoic principles are challenged that Brutus acknowledges their defeat in
by his inner conflict, leading him to interpret battle and the inevitability of their downfall.
the ghost as both a supernatural warning and “It is more worthy to leap in ourselves than
a reflection of his own remorse. tarry till they push us” implies that Brutus
This dual interpretation aligns with the believes it is more honorable to take control
play’s themes of morality, consequence, and of his own fate than to be captured and killed
the psychological impact of betrayal and by the enemy.
ambition. “Even for that our love of old, I prithee,
hold thou my sword hilts whilst I run on
37. Read the following extract and answer the it” reflects Brutus’s appeal to Volumnius’s
questions that follow: loyalty and friendship, asking him to assist in
Brutus: his honorable death.
Nay, I am sure it is, Volumnius. (ii) Brutus justifies his decision to take his
Thou seest the world, Volumnius, how it goes. own life by emphasizing the importance of
Our enemies have beat us to the pit. maintaining his dignity and control in the
It is more worthy to leap in ourselves face of inevitable defeat.
Than tarry till they push us. Good Volumnius, His appeal to Volumnius reveals the depth
Thou know’st that we two went to school together; of their bond, rooted in shared history and
Even for that our love of old, I prithee, mutual respect, as Brutus entrusts him with
Hold thou my sword hilts whilst I run on it. this final act.
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Our enemies This moment reflects Brutus’s values and
have beat us to the pit”? principles, particularly his commitment
What is implied by “It is more worthy to leap to honor and his refusal to submit to the
in ourselves than tarry till they push us”? humiliation of capture.
Explain “Even for that our love of old, I (iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to emphasize
prithee, hold thou my sword hilts whilst I run the themes of honor and agency, portraying
on it.” Brutus’s decision as a final act of control and
(ii) How does Brutus justify his decision to take adherence to Roman ideals of dignity.
his own life in this extract? Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s stoic

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(i) What does Antony mean by “This is not (iii) This moment highlights Antony’s strategic
Brutus, friend, but I assure you, a prize no thinking, as he sees the value in winning over
less in worth”? honorable individuals like Lucilius rather
Why does Antony instruct his men to “Keep than treating them as mere prisoners.
this man safe” and “Give him all kindness”? Earlier actions, such as Antony’s manipulation
Explain “I had rather have such men my of the Plebeians during Caesar’s funeral,
friends than enemies.” demonstrate his skill in recognizing and leveraging
(ii) How does Antony respond to the capture of the qualities of others to his advantage.
Lucilius, who impersonated Brutus? (iv) Antony’s focus on finding Brutus reflects the
What does this reveal about Antony’s attitude play’s themes of power and resolution, as
toward loyalty and courage? he seeks to consolidate victory and end the
How does Antony’s decision to treat Lucilius conflict decisively.
kindly contrast with the brutality of war? This reveals Antony’s priorities of ensuring
(iii) How does this moment highlight Antony’s stability and eliminating remaining threats to
strategic thinking and leadership? his and Octavius’s control of Rome.
What earlier actions in the play demonstrate (v) Antony’s treatment of Lucilius is motivated
his ability to recognize and value admirable by both kindness and strategy. His respect for
qualities, even in his enemies? Lucilius’s loyalty reflects genuine admiration,
(iv) How does Antony’s focus on finding Brutus but his decision to treat him kindly also serves
reflect the play’s themes of power and a strategic purpose by fostering goodwill and
resolution? potentially gaining an ally.
What does this reveal about Antony’s This dual motivation aligns with Antony’s
priorities as the conflict nears its conclusion? character as a pragmatic leader who balances
(v) Do you think Antony’s treatment of Lucilius respect for honor with the pursuit of power.
is motivated by kindness or strategy?
Support your answer with reference to
Antony’s character and his role in the play.
SCENE 5
Ans 34. Read the following extract and answer the
questions that follow:
(i) “This is not Brutus, friend, but I assure you,
Brutus:
a prize no less in worth” means that Antony
Come, poor remains of friends, rest on this rock.
recognizes Lucilius as a valuable individual
Clitus:
despite not being Brutus, appreciating his
Statilius showed the torchlight, but, my lord,
loyalty and courage.
He came not back. He is or ta’en or slain.
Antony instructs his men to “Keep this man
Brutus:
safe” and “Give him all kindness” to show
Sit thee down, Clitus. Slaying is the word;
respect for Lucilius’s bravery and loyalty, as
It is a deed in fashion. Hark thee, Clitus.
well as to foster goodwill.
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Come, poor
“I had rather have such men my friends than
remains of friends, rest on this rock”?
enemies” reflects Antony’s appreciation for
What does Clitus mean by “Statilius showed
individuals with loyalty and courage, valuing
the torchlight, but, my lord, he came not back”?
them as potential allies.
Explain “Slaying is the word; it is a deed in
(ii) Antony responds to Lucilius’s capture with
fashion.”
respect and restraint, acknowledging his
(ii) How does Brutus address the dwindling
loyalty and courage even though he fought
number of his allies in this extract?
for the opposing side.
What does his tone reveal about his state of
This reveals Antony’s attitude toward loyalty
mind?
and courage as admirable traits, regardless of
How does Clitus’s report heighten the tension
the person’s allegiance.
of this moment?
Antony’s decision to treat Lucilius kindly
(iii) How does this extract reflect the themes of
contrasts with the brutality of war,
loyalty and sacrifice in the play?
demonstrating his ability to rise above
What earlier moments foreshadow the dire
vengeance and recognize honor.
circumstances Brutus and his allies face here?

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(v) Brutus’s satisfaction with the loyalty he has Antony gain through their actions.
received throughout his life is justified, as “So fare you well at once, for Brutus’
his companions consistently demonstrate tongue hath almost ended his life’s history”
respect and commitment to him, even in the indicates that Brutus is bidding farewell to
face of their shared challenges. his companions as he prepares to conclude
This reflects his ability to inspire loyalty his life with dignity.
through his integrity and principles, (ii) Brutus views his legacy as superior to the
underscoring the respect he commands as a victory of Octavius and Antony because he
noble and honorable leader. acted out of principle, whereas he perceives
their conquest as tainted by ambition and
39. Read the following extract and answer the deceit.
questions that follow: This reveals his values of honor and morality,
Brutus: as he prioritizes integrity over personal gain,
I shall have glory by this losing day even in the face of defeat.
More than Octavius and Mark Antony This moment reflects Brutus’s acceptance
By this vile conquest shall attain unto. of his fate, as he remains committed to his
So fare you well at once, for Brutus’ tongue ideals and prepared to face the consequences
Hath almost ended his life’s history. of his actions.
(i) What does Brutus mean by “I shall have (iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to emphasize
glory by this losing day”? the theme of honor in defeat, portraying
What does Brutus imply by “More than Brutus as a noble figure who finds solace in
Octavius and Mark Antony by this vile his adherence to his principles.
conquest shall attain unto”? Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s
Explain “So fare you well at once, for Brutus’ justification for Caesar’s assassination and
tongue hath almost ended his life’s history.” his consistent focus on the welfare of Rome,
(ii) How does Brutus view his legacy compared foreshadow his concern for legacy and
to the victory of Octavius and Antony? integrity.
What does this reveal about his values and (iv) Brutus’s farewell reflects his leadership
his perception of honor? qualities, as he acknowledges his companions
How does this moment reflect Brutus’s and maintains composure and dignity in his
acceptance of his fate? final moments.
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to This reveals the emotional and philosophical
emphasize the theme of honor in defeat? depth of his character, as he balances his
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow personal struggles with his commitment to
Brutus’s focus on legacy and integrity? honor and his responsibility to his cause.
(iv) How does Brutus’s farewell reflect his (v) Brutus’s belief that his glory surpasses the
leadership qualities and his relationship with victors’ conquest is justified in the context of
his companions? his moral principles, as he acted with sincere
What does this reveal about the emotional intentions for Rome’s benefit.
and philosophical depth of his character? However, his rigid adherence to ideals and
(v) Do you think Brutus’s belief that his glory failure to anticipate the complexities of
surpasses the victors’ conquest is justified? power and ambition highlight the challenges
Support your answer with reference to his of balancing morality with political realities,
actions and the play’s exploration of morality adding nuance to his legacy.
and ambition.
40. Read the following extract and answer the
Ans
questions that follow:
(i) “I shall have glory by this losing day” means Brutus:
that Brutus believes his honor and principles I prithee, Strato, stay thou by thy lord.
will be remembered, even in defeat. Thou art a fellow of a good respect;
“More than Octavius and Mark Antony by Thy life hath had some smatch of honor in it.
this vile conquest shall attain unto” suggests Hold, then, my sword, and turn away thy face
that Brutus sees his moral integrity as While I do run upon it. Wilt thou, Strato?
more valuable than the power Octavius and

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

response to challenges and his justification followers?

for Caesar’s assassination, foreshadow his What does this reveal about the bond
ultimate decision to uphold his principles between Brutus and those who supported
even in death. him?
(iv) Brutus’s request to Volumnius highlights the (v) Do you think Brutus’s satisfaction with the
tension between loyalty and the burden of loyalty he has received throughout his life is
leadership, as he relies on his friend to assist in justified?
a decision borne of responsibility and honor. Support your answer with reference to his
This reveals the emotional toll of Brutus’s role character and his relationships in the play.
as a conspirator and leader, as he grapples
Ans
with the consequences of his actions and the
need to preserve his integrity. (i) “Farewell to you—and you—and you,
(v) Brutus’s decision to end his life aligns with Volumnius” indicates Brutus’s final goodbye
his stoic philosophy, as it reflects his belief to his closest companions, acknowledging
in maintaining control over his fate and each of them individually.
upholding his dignity in the face of defeat. By “Strato, thou hast been all this while
However, it also reflects an element of despair, asleep,” Brutus comments on Strato’s
as the weight of his decisions and the collapse obliviousness to the ongoing events,
of their cause leave him with no alternative highlighting the calmness of the moment
consistent with his values. before his final act.
“My heart doth joy that yet in all my life
38. Read the following extract and answer the I found no man but he was true to me”
questions that follow: reflects Brutus’s gratitude for the loyalty
Brutus: and integrity he has experienced from his
Farewell to you—and you—and you, companions, even in the face of adversity.
Volumnius.— (ii) Brutus expresses his gratitude and
Strato, thou hast been all this while asleep. respect for his companions by addressing
Farewell to thee, too, Strato.—Countrymen, them individually and reflecting on their
My heart doth joy that yet in all my life unwavering loyalty.
I found no man but he was true to me. This reveals Brutus’s deep appreciation
(i) What does Brutus mean by “Farewell to for loyalty and friendship, which he values
you—and you—and you, Volumnius”? as a cornerstone of his relationships and
What is Brutus referring to when he says, leadership.
“Strato, thou hast been all this while This moment reflects Brutus’s emotional
asleep”? state as calm and reflective, as he prepares
Explain “My heart doth joy that yet in all for his final act with dignity and gratitude.
my life I found no man but he was true to (iii) Shakespeare uses this farewell scene to
me.” emphasize the themes of loyalty and honor,
(ii) How does Brutus express his gratitude and portraying Brutus as a leader who values
respect for his companions in this extract? and acknowledges the trust of his followers.
What does this reveal about Brutus’s view Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s
of loyalty and friendship? relationships with Cassius and his
How does this moment reflect Brutus’s conspirators, foreshadow his reflections on
emotional state as he prepares for his final loyalty and the importance of trust in his
act? life.
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this farewell (iv) Brutus’s acknowledgment of his companions’
scene to emphasize the themes of loyalty and loyalty highlights his leadership qualities,
honor in the play? as he fosters respect and admiration among
What earlier moments in the play foreshadow those who follow him.
Brutus’s reflections on loyalty and trust? This reveals the strong bond between Brutus
(iv) How does Brutus’s acknowledgment of his and his supporters, as they remain steadfast
companions’ loyalty highlight his leadership in their allegiance to him despite the dire
qualities and his relationships with his circumstances.

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Brutus’s final act and its significance? (v) Strato’s statement that “no man else hath
(iv) How does Strato’s perspective on Brutus’s honor by his death” is justified, as Brutus’s
death highlight the contrast between death was an act of personal resolve and did
Brutus’s values and those of the victors? not grant the victors any glory or satisfaction.
What does this reveal about the legacy This reflects the broader themes of the
Brutus leaves behind? play, where honor and morality are often at
(v) Do you agree with Strato’s statement that odds with power and ambition, highlighting
“no man else hath honor by his death”? Brutus’s unique place as a tragic and
Support your answer with reference to virtuous figure.
Brutus’s actions and the broader themes of
the play. 42. Read the following extract and answer the
questions that follow:
Ans Lucilius:
(i) “My master’s man.—Strato, where is thy So Brutus should be found.—I thank thee,
master?” means that Messala is asking Brutus,
Strato about Brutus’s whereabouts, seeking That thou hast proved Lucilius’ saying true.
confirmation of his status. Octavius:
“Free from the bondage you are in, All that served Brutus, I will entertain them.—
Messala” implies that Brutus has escaped Fellow, wilt thou bestow thy time with me?
the consequences of defeat and humiliation Strato:
through his honorable death. Ay, if Messala will prefer me to you.
“For Brutus only overcame himself, and no (i) What does Lucilius mean by “So Brutus
man else hath honor by his death” reflects should be found”?
the idea that Brutus’s death was a personal Why does Lucilius thank Brutus by saying,
and noble act, depriving the victors of any “That thou hast proved Lucilius’ saying
glory in his demise. true”?
(ii) Strato describes Brutus’s death as an Explain “All that served Brutus, I will
act of self-overcoming, emphasizing his entertain them.”
autonomy and refusal to submit to capture (ii) How does Octavius demonstrate his
or humiliation. magnanimity in this extract?
This statement reveals Brutus’s commitment What does Strato’s response reveal about
to honor and his stoic acceptance of his fate, his loyalty and respect for Messala?
maintaining control over his destiny even in How does this moment reflect the resolution
death. of the conflict between Brutus’s followers
This moment reflects the respect Brutus and the victors?
commands, as Strato’s words highlight his (iii) How does this moment highlight the themes
nobility and the integrity with which he of loyalty and reconciliation in the play?
faced his end. What earlier events foreshadow this sense
(iii) Shakespeare uses Strato’s reflection to of closure and acceptance among the
emphasize the themes of honor and freedom, characters?
portraying Brutus’s death as a final assertion (iv) How does Octavius’s treatment of Brutus’s
of his values and independence. followers reflect his leadership qualities and
Earlier moments, such as Brutus’s internal priorities as Rome’s future ruler?
conflict over Caesar’s assassination and his What does this reveal about the transition
reflections on fate, foreshadow his final act from conflict to consolidation of power?
and its significance. (v) Do you think Octavius’s decision to accept
(iv) Strato’s perspective on Brutus’s death Brutus’s followers is motivated by kindness,
highlights the contrast between Brutus’s strategy, or both?
values of integrity and honor and the Support your answer with reference to his
ambition-driven actions of the victors. character and the play’s themes of power
This reveals the legacy Brutus leaves behind and honor.
as a principled and noble figure, respected Ans
even by those who opposed him.
(i) “So Brutus should be found” means that

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Lucilius acknowledges the inevitability of This was the noblest Roman of them all;
Brutus’s honorable end, staying true to his All the conspirators save only he
character. Did that they did in envy of great Caesar;
Lucilius thanks Brutus by saying, “That He only, in a general honest thought
thou hast proved Lucilius’ saying true,” And common good to all, made one of them.
because Brutus’s actions upheld the values (i) Who is Antony speaking about, and what is
of integrity and loyalty Lucilius admired. the context of this speech?
“All that served Brutus, I will entertain What does Antony mean by “noblest Roman
them” reflects Octavius’s willingness to of them all”?
accept Brutus’s loyal followers into his How does Antony differentiate this
service, demonstrating respect for their conspirator from the others?
allegiance. (ii) What does Antony say about the motives of
(ii) Octavius demonstrates his magnanimity the other conspirators?
by offering to take in Brutus’s followers, What does he mean by “in envy of great
showing respect for their loyalty despite Caesar”?
their opposition. How does Antony justify this conspirator’s
Strato’s response, “Ay, if Messala will prefer involvement in the assassination?
me to you,” reveals his respect for Messala’s (iii) How does this speech reflect Antony’s
guidance and his consideration of loyalty attitude toward the conspirators?
before making decisions. What earlier actions in the play highlight
This moment reflects the resolution of the Antony’s views on Brutus?
conflict, as Brutus’s followers are treated with (iv) How does this extract highlight the theme of
dignity and the victors extend reconciliation. honor in the play?
(iii) This moment highlights the themes of loyalty What does Antony’s statement reveal about
and reconciliation, as Brutus’s followers Brutus’s character?
remain devoted to him while finding (v) Do you think Antony’s praise of Brutus is
acceptance from the victors. sincere?
Earlier events, such as Antony’s eulogy for Support your answer with reference to the
Caesar and the respect shown to Brutus events of the play.
after his death, foreshadow this resolution
Ans
and mutual recognition of honor.
(iv) Octavius’s treatment of Brutus’s followers (i) Antony is speaking about Brutus, delivering
reflects his leadership qualities, including these lines after Brutus’s death at the Battle
magnanimity and pragmatism, as he seeks of Philippi.
to consolidate power and ensure stability. By calling him “the noblest Roman of them
This reveals the transition from conflict to all,” Antony acknowledges Brutus’s integrity
consolidation of power, as Octavius begins and selflessness, contrasting him with the
to unify Rome under his leadership while other conspirators.
honoring those who served nobly. Antony differentiates Brutus by stating that
(v) Octavius’s decision to accept Brutus’s his motives were driven by a genuine desire
followers is motivated by both kindness and for the common good, unlike the others, who
strategy. His respect for their loyalty reflects acted out of envy of Caesar.
genuine admiration, while his willingness to (ii) Antony claims that the other conspirators
integrate them into his service strengthens assassinated Caesar out of jealousy and
his position as a leader. personal ambition.
This dual motivation aligns with the play’s The phrase “in envy of great Caesar”
themes of power and honor, emphasizing the implies that their actions were motivated by
complexities of leadership and reconciliation resentment of Caesar’s power and influence.
in the aftermath of conflict. Antony justifies Brutus’s involvement by
attributing it to “a general honest thought
43. Read the following extract and answer the and common good to all,” highlighting
questions that follow: Brutus’s honorable intentions to protect
Antony: Rome.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 185

(iii) This speech reflects Antony’s grudging What earlier moments in the play foreshadow
respect for Brutus, despite his opposition to Octavius’s capacity for recognizing virtue,
the conspirators. Antony admires Brutus’s even in his enemies?
integrity and distinguishes him from the (iv) How does this extract reflect Octavius’s
others. leadership qualities and his role in
Earlier in the play, Antony’s interactions consolidating power?
with Brutus, such as their conversation after What does his decision to honor Brutus
Caesar’s assassination, show his recognition reveal about his priorities as Rome’s future
of Brutus’s honorable character. ruler?
(iv) The extract underscores the theme of honor (v) Do you think Octavius’s treatment of Brutus
by portraying Brutus as a principled figure is motivated by genuine respect or political
who acted out of loyalty to Rome rather strategy?
than personal gain. Support your answer with reference to his
Antony’s statement reveals that Brutus’s character and the broader themes of the
actions, while misguided, were rooted in his play.
sense of duty and commitment to justice,
Ans
elevating him above the other conspirators.
(v) Antony’s praise of Brutus is sincere, as he (i) “According to his virtue, let us use him with
genuinely acknowledges Brutus’s unique all respect and rites of burial” means that
motivations and integrity. This is evident in Octavius acknowledges Brutus’s honorable
Antony’s differentiation between Brutus and character and ensures he is given a respectful
the other conspirators. burial.
While Antony opposed the conspirators, his “Within my tent his bones tonight shall
admiration for Brutus’s honorable intentions lie, most like a soldier, ordered honorably”
reflects his recognition of Brutus’s nobility, reflects Octavius’s intention to treat Brutus
even in defeat and death. as a respected soldier, arranging his burial
with dignity.
44. Read the following extract and answer the “So call the field to rest, and let’s away to
questions that follow: part the glories of this happy day” indicates
Octavius: that Octavius is bringing the conflict to a
According to his virtue, let us use him close and preparing to celebrate their victory.
With all respect and rites of burial. (ii) Octavius expresses respect for Brutus by
Within my tent his bones tonight shall lie, ensuring he receives honorable burial rites,
Most like a soldier, ordered honorably. recognizing his virtue and bravery even as an
So call the field to rest, and let’s away adversary.
To part the glories of this happy day. This reveals Octavius’s view of honor as
(i) What does Octavius mean by “According to transcending sides in battle, valuing noble
his virtue, let us use him with all respect and qualities regardless of allegiance.
rites of burial”? This moment contrasts with the violence of
What does Octavius imply by “Within my the preceding battle, offering a solemn and
tent his bones tonight shall lie, most like a dignified conclusion to the conflict.
soldier, ordered honorably”? (iii) Shakespeare uses this moment to emphasize
Explain “So call the field to rest, and let’s the theme of honor in defeat, as Brutus
away to part the glories of this happy day.” is celebrated for his virtues despite his
(ii) How does Octavius express respect for opposition to Octavius.
Brutus in this extract? Earlier moments, such as Antony’s funeral
What does this reveal about Octavius’s speech highlighting Caesar’s virtues,
view of honor and his treatment of fallen foreshadow the recognition of admirable
adversaries? traits even in fallen adversaries.
How does this moment contrast with the (iv) This extract reflects Octavius’s leadership
violence of the preceding battle? qualities, including magnanimity and the
(iii) How does Shakespeare use this moment to ability to bring closure to conflict with
emphasize the theme of honor in defeat? dignity and respect.

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Ch 3 : Julius Caesar Act 5

His decision to honor Brutus reveals his

priorities as Rome’s future ruler, focusing
on unity and consolidating power by
demonstrating fairness and respect.
(v) Octavius’s treatment of Brutus is motivated
by both genuine respect and political
strategy. His recognition of Brutus’s virtues
reflects sincere admiration, but it also
serves to strengthen his image as a just and
honorable leader.
This dual motivation aligns with the broader
themes of the play, where personal honor
and political ambition are often intertwined.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 187

TREASURE CHEST
A Collection of ICSE Short Stories & Poems

PROSE (Short Stories)

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Ch 4 : Treasaure Chest Seperator

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 189

CHAPTER
1
WITH THE PHOTOGRAPHER

INTRODUCTIO editing methods clash with the narrator’s desire

for a simple, true-to-life picture.
“With the Photographer” is a short story by
Stephen Leacock from his book Behind the Beyond.
It describes the author’s humorous encounter
SUMMAR
with a strict photographer who wants to take the
perfect picture. The photographer keeps trying to
1. The Desire for a Photograph : The narrator visits
fix the customer’s face, never quite satisfied with
a photographer’s studio, hoping for a simple,
how it looks. After finally taking the photo, he
natural portrait of himself. From the start, the
heavily edits it to achieve perfection. However,
photographer seems unenthusiastic, creating an
the customer dislikes the changes and becomes
uncomfortable atmosphere.
angry and disappointed in the end.
2. The Long and Awkward Wait : The narrator
is told to wait and, in the process, browses old
magazines from past decades. He begins to feel
ABOUT THE AUTHO that he’s interfering with the photographer’s
meticulous, scientific work. This long delay makes
him even more self-conscious about his own face.
Stephen Leacock was a famous Canadian writer
3. Entering the Studio : After an hour, the
and humorist, born on December 30, 1869. He was
photographer finally lets him in. The studio setup
known around the world for his witty writings.
involves filtered sunlight and a large camera. The
He earned a doctorate in political science and
narrator sits in a bright beam of light, hoping
economy. Early in his career, he wrote fictional and
things will go smoothly now that the actual
humorous works that gained wide popularity. By
photography session is starting.
the early 1900s, he was the most famous humorist
4. Photographer’s Struggle for Perfection : The
in the English-speaking world. He received the
photographer complains about the narrator’s
Royal Society of Canada’s Lorne Pierce Medal in
features, calling them “quite wrong.” He suggests
1937. In his honor, the Stephen Leacock Memorial
the narrator turn his face three-quarters, hoping
Award for Humour was created. Later, he wrote
to improve its appearance. While the narrator
biographies of Twain and Dickens and published
tries to oblige and even jokes about everyone’s
many works such as Literary Lapses and Nonsense
face looking better at a three-quarter angle, the
Novels.
photographer remains focused solely on achieving
his version of perfection.
5. Increasingly Absurd Instructions : The
MAIN CHARACTER photographer instructs the narrator to perform
numerous odd adjustments:
• Opening and then closing his mouth quickly
1. The Narrator (Customer) : He is a polite yet
• Drooping his ears slightly
increasingly frustrated customer who wants his
• Rolling his eyes under his lids
photograph taken. His natural face becomes a
• Twisting his face and adjusting his posture in
problem for the photographer, leading to conflict
uncomfortable ways
and disappointment.
The narrator grows frustrated, realizing the
2. The Photographer : He is a serious, perfection-
photographer is treating his face as something to
obsessed individual who believes every face needs
be sculpted rather than a natural part of him.
improving. His strict instructions and heavy

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

6. The Sudden Snapshot : Mid-protest, while the 30. Sulphide : A chemical compound, metaphorically
narrator insists it is his face and no one else’s, used.
the photographer abruptly pulls the string that 31. Depict : To portray or illustrate.
operates the camera. He snaps the photo at 32. Humble : Modest or unassuming.
the exact moment of the narrator’s emotional 33. Reconcile : To make peace with or accept.
outburst, proudly claiming to have caught a lively 34. Brutal : Extremely severe or harsh.
expression. 35. Bauble : A small decorative object with little
7. The Big Reveal : Days later, the narrator returns value.
to see the proof. He discovers the photographer 36. Withering : Crushing or humiliating in effect.
has heavily edited the image, altering his eyes, 37. Scorn : Contempt or disdain.
eyebrows, and even discussing the possibility of 38. Gloss : A shiny or polished surface.
removing his ears. The photograph looks nothing 39. Emboss : To carve or mold a raised design.
like the narrator’s actual face. 40. Gild : To apply a thin layer of gold.
8. The Final Outburst : Deeply upset, the narrator
accuses the photographer of ruining his true
appearance. He had hoped to capture a genuine
image to share with others, but instead he CRITICAL COMMENT
receives a heavily manipulated version of himself.
Overcome by frustration, he storms out in tears. 1. Society’s Obsession with Perfection : The story
shows how people feel pressured to look flawless,
often losing their true identity in the process.
2. Exaggerated Demands : The photographer’s
WORD MEANING silly suggestions-like drooping ears or removing
eyebrows-highlight how odd it is to force “perfect”
1. Photograph : A picture captured using a camera looks on someone.
2. Enthusiasm : Great excitement and interest. 3. Conflict Between Real and Fake : The narrator
3. Drooping : Sagging or hanging down loosely. wants an honest photo, but the photographer
4. Dim : Faint or lacking clarity. only cares about making a “perfect” version that
5. Privacy : Seclusion from public attention. looks nothing like the real person.
6. Scientific : Based on methods of science. 4. Humorous Satire : Stephen Leacock uses humor
7. Unwarrantable : Unjustifiable and improper. to poke fun at the idea of always prioritizing
8. Severely : Intensely or harshly. appearance over authenticity.
9. Filtered : Processed to remove impurities. 5. Emotional Impact : The narrator’s anger and
10. Frantic : Overwhelmed by fear or anxiety. disappointment remind us how hurtful it can be
11. Grave : Serious in manner or expression. when our true self is dismissed or reshaped.
12. Expand : To grow or stretch out.
13. Contract : To reduce in size or tighten.
14. Emotion : A strong mental or physical feeling.
15. Dignity : Worthiness or self-respect.
16. Faults : Flaws or shortcomings.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
17. Out of drawing : Disproportioned or unbalanced.
18. Animation : Energy or liveliness. 1. Why does the narrator visit the photographer?
19. Negative : A photographic image on film. (a) To buy old magazines
20. Proof : A trial version of a photograph. (b) To see a friend
21. Graver : More serious and solemn. (c) To get his photograph taken
22. Pride : A sense of accomplishment. (d) To sell a camera
23. Retouched : Enhanced or altered slightly.
24. Splendidly : Impressively or magnificently. Ans
25. Adjusted : Modified or adapted. (c) “To get his photograph taken”
26. Process : A sequence of steps to achieve a result.
The narrator clearly states his purpose is to have
27. Delphide : Fictional photographic enhancement.
his photo taken, though he later faces many
28. Superficies : The surface or exterior.
challenges during the session.
29. Bitterness : Resentment and displeasure.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 191

2. How does the photographer initially react to the 6. What is the photographer’s suggestion for
narrator? improving the narrator’s face?
(a) Enthusiastically (a) Hide it completely
(b) With disinterest (b) A full front view
(c) Angrily (c) A three-quarters view
(d) Fearfully (d) An upside-down pose
Ans Ans
(b) “With disinterest” (c) “A three-quarters view”
The text says the photographer looks at him The photographer believes a three-quarter
“without enthusiasm,” hinting at a cold, angle will make the narrator’s face appear more
uninterested manner that sets the tone for their appealing and balanced for the camera.
awkward interaction.
7. How does the narrator react when the photographer
3. While waiting, the narrator reads magazines that twists his head sideways?
are: (a) He eagerly agrees
(a) Very current (b) He thinks the photographer will kiss him
(b) Extremely old (c) He runs away
(c) Highly scientific (d) He laughs loudly
(d) Completely blank
Ans
Ans (b) “He thinks the photographer will kiss him”
(b) “Extremely old” The narrator humorously closes his eyes,
He reads the Ladies Companion (1912) and others misunderstanding the photographer’s movement
from earlier years, revealing how long he waits as a gesture of affection.
and how outdated the available magazines are.

4. How does the narrator feel about disturbing the

photographer’s “scientific pursuits”?
8. Which body parts does the photographer criticize
(a) Proud
most?
(b) Guilty
(a) Nose and chin
(c) Excited
(b) Shoulders and hands
(d) Overjoyed
(c) Mouth, ears, and eyes
Ans (d) Feet and legs
(b) “Guilty” Ans
The narrator senses he might be intruding on (c) “Mouth, ears, and eyes”
the photographer’s work, feeling uneasy about
The photographer attempts to adjust or “fix”
bringing his “troublesome” face into a serious,
nearly every part of the narrator’s face, including
scientific process.
drooping his ears and rolling his eyes.
5. What is the main problem the photographer has
9. What does the narrator do when he can’t tolerate
with the narrator’s face?
the photographer’s demands anymore?
(a) He likes it too much
(a) He calls the police
(b) He finds it “wrong”
(b) He protests and defends his face
(c) He thinks it’s perfect
(c) He falls asleep
(d) He thinks it’s too symmetrical
(d) He asks for a discount
Ans
Ans
(b) “He finds it ‘wrong’”
(b) “He protests and defends his face”
The photographer openly criticizes the narrator’s
The narrator insists it’s his own face and has lived
features, calling them “quite wrong,” which
with it for 40 years, emphasizing his right to keep
creates the central conflict of the story.
it unchanged.

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

(c) the place was quiet (c) it appears boundless

(d) everyone told him to (d) it suits photography
Ans Ans
(a) with a face like mine (c) it appears boundless
The narrator humorously believes his own face is Turning the face three-quarters supposedly gives
an unwelcome interruption in the photographer’s a wider, more open look.
solemn, “scientific” work environment.
31. The photographer tries to droop the narrator’s
27. While waiting, the narrator flips through very old ears, roll his eyes, and ______ that he might
magazines that date back to ______. achieve perfection.
(a) the year 1888 (a) fix the posture
(b) about a decade ago (b) freeze the smile
(c) another century (c) shift the jaw
(d) some years after 1940 (d) stretch his neck
Ans Ans
(a) the year 1888 (a) fix the posture
He specifically mentions the Infants’ Journal He issues many bizarre instructions, believing
(1888), showing how long and dull his wait is. each will lead to a perfect pose.

28. The narrator thinks the photographer’s gaze 32. The narrator stops cooperating and declares this
resembles that of a ______ because it is face is his face as ______.
distant and studious. (a) it belongs elsewhere
(a) curious friend (b) it is beyond repair
(b) natural scientist (c) I’ve lived with it
(c) romantic poet (d) time cannot change it
(d) medical doctor
Ans
Ans (c) I’ve lived with it
(b) natural scientist He insists that after 40 years, it’s part of his
The photographer’s detached look suggests a identity.
scientific approach rather than a warm, artistic
one. 33. The photographer snaps the picture that very
moment because he thinks he has captured the
29. The photographer instructs the narrator to open narrator’s ______.
his mouth, then tells him to close it ______ he (a) anger and fear
changes his mind. (b) animated features
(a) as soon as (c) best angle yet
(b) whenever needed (d) smiling expression
(c) without a pause Ans
(d) since he forgot
(b) animated features
Ans He believes heightened emotion creates a lively
(a) as soon as photograph.
The abrupt switch from “open” to “close” shows 34. The narrator returns on Saturday to view a proof
his extreme fussiness. that looks ______.
30. The narrator learns that a three-quarters (a) like a beautiful painting
view might make his face look better because (b) exactly like him
______. (c) nothing like him
(a) it grows broader (d) slightly improved
(b) it hides the flaws

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 193

18. How does the narrator leave the studio? (c) The photographer is silent under a black cloth
(a) Laughing at the photographer (d) He hears soft chanting
(b) Calmly shaking hands
Ans
(c) Crying and upset
(d) Taking more pictures (c) “The photographer is silent under a black
cloth”
Ans
While the photographer adjusts the camera, he’s
(c) “Crying and upset” briefly hidden under a cloth, leading the narrator
Overcome by frustration, he storms out in tears, to jokingly imagine he’s praying.
calling the edited picture a worthless bauble that
lacks any real resemblance. 23. Which word best describes the narrator’s humor?
(a) Dark
19. Which item does the narrator mention wanting (b) Slapstick
his friends to keep? (c) Dry
(a) A painted portrait (d) Nonexistent
(b) A heavily edited photo
Ans
(c) A genuine photograph of him
(d) His camera (c) “Dry”

Ans His sarcastic and understated observations make

the absurdities of the session even funnier without
(c) “A genuine photograph of him” using broad or over-the-top comedy.
The narrator wants a simple, accurate picture
that friends could remember him by, not the 24. The photographer seems more interested in:
distorted one the photographer creates. (a) Capturing a real moment
(b) Quickly finishing the job
20. The story’s main setting is: (c) Selling his camera
(a) A grand theater (d) Perfecting the face with editing
(b) A countryside cottage
Ans
(c) A photographer’s studio
(d) A bustling street market (d) “Perfecting the face with editing”

Ans His retouching methods-removing ears, changing

eyebrows-show he aims to create a flawless image
(c) “A photographer’s studio” rather than preserve authenticity.
Nearly all the action unfolds in the studio, focusing
on the comedic tension between the narrator and 25. The text, “With the Photographer,” is best
the perfectionist photographer. described as:
(a) A scientific article
21. The narrator compares the photographer’s gaze (b) A comedic short story
to that of a: (c) A lengthy novel
(a) Romantic poet (d) A historical biography
(b) Confused child
(c) Natural scientist Ans
(d) Fortune teller (b) “A comedic short story”
Ans Stephen Leacock’s humorous narrative focuses on
(c) “Natural scientist” the comical clash between an overly particular
photographer and a frustrated customer,
He notices the photographer’s detached, analytical highlighting society’s obsession with perfect
look, implying he is more concerned with data images.
and precision than artistic warmth.
26. The narrator felt he had intruded on the
22. Why does the narrator joke about the photographer photographer’s privacy because ______.
praying? (a) with a face like mine
(a) He sees the photographer light candles (b) he disliked the man
(b) The photographer kneels before the camera

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

(v) Is the closing tone one of resignation, anger,

or something else?
How does this ending tie into the broader
theme of self-image versus external
manipulation?
Ans
(i) The speaker proposes adding every conceivable
embellishment-gloss, shading, embossing-so
that the photographer can reach his own idea
of perfection.
This exhaustive list shows that the speaker
has given up resisting; he no longer cares
about preserving authenticity and effectively
surrenders the image to whatever the
photographer deems “finished.”
(ii) By telling the photographer to keep the
final product for himself and his friends, the
speaker distances himself from any emotional
investment in it.
Saying “They may value it” indicates that
he no longer considers the photograph a true
representation of himself and believes only
those who admire such heavy alterations will
find it worthwhile.
(iii) He calls it “but a worthless bauble” because,
in his eyes, the heavily manipulated portrait
is devoid of personal meaning.
This phrase conveys his disillusionment,
implying that the photograph has become a
mere trinket rather than a sincere depiction
of who he is.
(iv) Breaking into tears and leaving underscores
the depth of the speaker’s frustration, hurt,
and loss of agency.
It shows that the session ends in emotional
turmoil, with the speaker feeling overwhelmed
by the photographer’s relentless modifications
and the resulting loss of his real identity in
the image.
(v) The speaker’s tone combines resignation
and sorrow, as he both capitulates to the
photographer’s vision and laments the loss of
his authentic self.
This resolution underscores the story’s
central conflict between genuine self-image
and artificial perfection, highlighting the
emotional cost of conforming to someone
else’s imposed ideals.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 195

Ans He believes the photo has lost all meaning and

(c) nothing like him personal value.
Heavy retouching has altered his features beyond 39. The photographer seems more like a scientist
recognition. than an artist because he keeps ______.
(a) repeating the same prayer
35. Using the Delphide process, the photographer
(b) treating the narrator kindly
has removed the narrator’s ______ because he
(c) adjusting each tiny detail
dislikes its natural shape.
(d) telling jokes to amuse him
(a) eyebrows
(b) mustache Ans
(c) chin line (c) adjusting each tiny detail
(d) upper cheek
He behaves as if he is conducting an experiment,
Ans not taking a simple portrait.
(a) eyebrows
40. The narrator exits the studio in tears, stating
He proudly erases and redraws them, aiming for a that such a photo is ______.
so-called ideal look. (a) what he always wanted
(b) useless for real memory
36. To remove the narrator’s ears, the photographer
(c) his ultimate masterpiece
suggests using ______ that can erase them
(d) an improvement on him
entirely.
(a) simple magic Ans
(b) a big eraser (b) useless for real memory
(c) Sulphide technique
(d) hour-long surgery The narrator is upset that a heavily altered photo
no longer reflects his true self.
Ans
(c) Sulphide technique 41. Which option lists the events in the correct order,
He mentions Sulphide to erase ears, showing an from the moment the narrator arrives until the
extreme pursuit of perfection. photographer calls him?
1. The narrator realizes he has intruded on the
37. The narrator hoped his photograph would be kept photographer’s “scientific pursuits.”
by friends, so they might ______. 2. The narrator reads old magazines from 1912,
(a) treasure the memory 1902, and 1888.
(b) see his new look 3. He is instructed to sit and wait.
(c) complain about him 4. The photographer finally summons him to
(d) laugh at the changes the inner room.
Ans (a) 2, 1, 4, 3
(b) 3, 2, 1, 4
(a) treasure the memory
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
He wants a true likeness for loved ones, not a (d) 3, 2, 4, 1
distorted version.
Ans
38. The narrator accuses the photographer of (b) 3, 2, 1, 4
destroying his natural face, calling the final image
First, the narrator sits and waits (3), passing time
a worthless ______.
by reading old magazines (2). This leads him to
(a) token of love
realize he has disturbed the photographer (1).
(b) act of cruelty
Finally, he is called in to begin (4).
(c) piece of art
(d) bauble 42. Which option arranges these steps correctly,
Ans starting when the narrator enters the studio?
1. The narrator sits in a bright beam of sunlight.
(d) bauble
2. The photographer crawls into the camera,

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

10. At what moment does the photographer snap the 14. Which facial feature does the photographer
picture? suggest removing entirely?
(a) When the narrator is smiling (a) The nose
(b) When the narrator is calm (b) The chin
(c) During the narrator’s emotional protest (c) The ears
(d) As the narrator enters (d) The eyebrows
Ans Ans
(c) “During the narrator’s emotional protest” (c) “The ears”
The photographer abruptly pulls the string while Using the Sulphide process, the photographer
the narrator is speaking passionately, capturing mentions eliminating the narrator’s ears, showing
an image at a moment of heightened emotion. how far he’ll go to achieve what he considers
perfection.
11. How does the photographer describe the
expression he captures? 15. What new method does the photographer mention
(a) Dull and boring for the narrator’s eyebrows?
(b) Animated and lively (a) Bromide
(c) Tired and droopy (b) Sulphide
(d) Frightening (c) Delphide
(d) Oxide
Ans
(b) “Animated and lively” Ans

The photographer claims to have captured the (c) “Delphide”

narrator’s face at its most expressive, though the The photographer brags about the Delphide
narrator sees the timing as intrusive. process for removing and redrawing eyebrows,
a sign of his commitment to excessive image
manipulation.

16. The narrator originally wants a photograph that

12. When does the narrator return to view the proof? would:
(a) Immediately after the session (a) Impress everyone with its glamour
(b) A month later (b) Show his true face
(c) On Saturday (c) Be turned into a painting
(d) He never returns (d) Feature a humorous pose
Ans Ans
(c) “On Saturday” (b) “Show his true face”
The photographer needs time to develop and He desires a simple likeness for himself and his
retouch the negative, instructing the narrator to friends, not the artificially perfected version that
come back on Saturday to see the first proof. the photographer insists on making.
13. How does the narrator feel upon seeing the heavily 17. Who wrote “With the Photographer”?
retouched photo? (a) Mark Twain
(a) Thrilled (b) Charles Dickens
(b) Indifferent (c) Stephen Leacock
(c) Horrified (d) O. Henry
(d) Relieved
Ans
Ans
(c) “Stephen Leacock”
(c) “Horrified”
Stephen Leacock was a Canadian humorist known
The narrator is shocked and angry that his face for his witty and satirical short stories, including
has been altered beyond recognition, undermining this one.
his wish for a natural portrait.

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demands to see it (2). The photographer replies 3. The narrator becomes furious at such extreme
it isn’t ready (3), instructing him to return on editing.
Saturday (4). 4. He insists he wanted a face “as Heaven gave
it.”
47. Which choice presents the correct progression of (a) 1, 2, 3, 4
events when the narrator sees the proof? (b) 2, 1, 4, 3
1. The narrator notices the photographer is (c) 1, 3, 2, 4
graver than before. (d) 3, 2, 1, 4
2. The photographer shows him a large proof.
3. The narrator asks if it’s really him. Ans
4. They stare in silence at the image. (a) 1, 2, 3, 4
(a) 1, 2, 4, 3
The narrator first notes his ears match reality (1),
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4
but the photographer suggests removing them
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4
(2). Outraged, the narrator protests such radical
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4
changes (3) and reminds him he wanted a natural
Ans likeness (4).
(a) 1, 2, 4, 3 50. Which option shows the final remarks leading to
First, the narrator sees the photographer’s serious the narrator’s departure in the correct order?
demeanor (1). Next, the large proof is revealed 1. The narrator calls the heavily retouched
(2), and they look silently at it (4). Only then image “a worthless bauble.”
does the narrator ask if it’s really him (3). 2. He says he wanted a genuine picture for his
friends.
48. Which of the following orders best reflects how 3. He mocks the idea of dipping the photo in
the edits to the narrator’s features are revealed? any chemical.
1. The narrator complains about his changed 4. He breaks down in tears and leaves the studio.
eyebrows. (a) 2, 1, 3, 4
2. The photographer explains he used Delphide (b) 2, 3, 1, 4
to remove them. (c) 1, 2, 4, 3
3. The narrator suspects his hairline is also (d) 2, 1, 3, 4
altered. Ans
4. The photographer confirms he dislikes hair
low on the skull. (d) 2, 1, 3, 4
(a) 1, 3, 4, 2 He begins by explaining his wish for a real keepsake
(b) 2, 4, 1, 3 (2), then demeans the result as worthless (1).
(c) 3, 1, 4, 2 Next, he sarcastically tells the photographer to
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 use any chemical (3), before leaving in tears (4).
Ans 51. Select the option that correctly shows how
(a) 1, 3, 4, 2 statements (1) and (2) relate to each other in the
First, the narrator remarks on his unfamiliar beginning of the story.
eyebrows (1). Then he senses other changes, Statement (1) : The narrator feels guilty for
including hairline issues (3). The photographer disturbing the photographer’s serious work with
admits he detests low hair (4) and finally reveals his face.
the Delphide process used on the eyebrows (2). Statement (2) : The narrator ends up reading very
old magazines, like the Infants’ Journal (1888),
49. Which sequence correctly shows the discussion while waiting.
of removing the narrator’s ears and his angry (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
response? (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
1. The narrator says at least the ears look (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
correct. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
2. The photographer mentions using Sulphide to Ans
remove them.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

emphasizing his tendency to prioritize an (v) Do you sense that the speaker’s interruption
imagined perfection over the subject’s natural changes the balance of power in their
look. interaction?
(iv) “Carry the hair away from the brow” How might this sudden defiance affect their
shows that he actively modifies the original relationship going forward?
placement of the hair to achieve the effect he
Ans
wants, demonstrating his hands-on approach
to retouching rather than simply documenting (i) The photographer mentions “the Sulphide”
reality. process because he believes he can make
“Clear back to the superficies” implies taking further “improvements” by drastically
the hairline all the way to the very surface altering the subject’s appearance.
or edge, reinforcing the photographer’s He shows little concern for preserving the
inclination to push boundaries in pursuit of a subject’s natural look, valuing his own vision
sharper, more dramatic profile. above authenticity.
(v) His preference for a revised hairline could be In the context of retouching, “removing the
seen as an expression of artistic creativity, ears entirely” indicates an extreme measure,
showcasing his bold attempts to perfect each suggesting no feature is too fundamental to
detail. It might also be viewed as dismissive be changed or eliminated.
of the subject’s natural features, as if the (ii) The speaker interrupts because the idea of
original look is inadequate. removing his ears is shocking and offensive,
The subject may feel conflicted, torn between crossing a personal boundary.
trusting the photographer’s expertise and His forceful tone and upright posture
worrying that the alterations stray too far convey a profound indignation, marking a
from authentic self-image. Some may be moment when he can no longer tolerate the
intrigued, while others could be uncomfortable photographer’s intrusive methods.
with such sweeping changes. (iii) “Withering scorn that should have blasted
the man on the spot” implies the speaker’s
10. Read the following extract from the text and disdain is so intense that he expects it to halt
answer the questions that follow: or overwhelm the photographer.
“We have a process now–the Sulphide–for It emphasizes the speaker’s moral outrage
removing the ears entirely. I’ll see if –” “Listen!” I and the depth of his anger at the suggestion.
interrupted, drawing myself up and animating my (iv) The photographer’s readiness to remove
features to their full extent and speaking with a integral body parts like ears reveals he
withering scorn that should have blasted the man prioritizes an idealized aesthetic over respect
on the spot. for the subject’s identity.
(i) Why does the photographer mention “the Such extreme changes conflict with the
Sulphide” process? subject’s personal sense of self, blurring
How does this method reflect his attitude the line between creative enhancement and
toward the subject’s features? violating a person’s physical integrity.
What does it mean to “remove the ears (v) Yes, this interruption likely shifts the dynamic,
entirely” in the context of retouching? as the speaker asserts his own authority
(ii) Why does the speaker interrupt the rather than continuing to acquiesce.
photographer at this point? By openly challenging the photographer, he
How does the speaker’s tone and posture reclaims some power in their interaction,
convey his outrage? which could either force the photographer to
(iii) What is implied by the phrase “withering reconsider his approach or escalate tension in
scorn that should have blasted the man on their relationship.
the spot”?
(iv) What does the photographer’s willingness to 11. Read the following extract from the text and
alter the subject’s appearance so drastically answer the questions that follow:
suggest about his professional ethics? “It seems that I was mistaken. What I wanted
How might such extreme measures conflict is no longer done. Go on, then, with your brutal
with the subject’s sense of identity? work. Take your negative, or whatever it is you call

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complaint about the ears; rather, both instructions (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
result from the photographer’s ongoing obsession (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
with “fixing” every perceived flaw. (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
57. Select the option that best describes how
statements (1) and (2) relate when the narrator Ans
finally protests. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Statement (1) : The narrator passionately says, The narrator’s doubt about recognizing himself is
“This face is my face… I’ve lived with it for forty a general reaction. Meanwhile, the photographer’s
years.” admission of heavy retouching stands on its own.
Statement (2) : The photographer immediately His disclosure doesn’t directly stem from the
snaps the photo, pulling a string without warning. narrator’s initial question.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false. 60. Which option best illustrates how statements
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). (1) and (2) connect during the narrator’s final
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. outburst?
Statement (1) : The narrator calls the altered
Ans portrait “a worthless bauble” and leaves in tears.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). Statement (2) : He accuses the photographer of
The narrator’s emotional outburst inadvertently removing every natural trait, thus destroying his
provides the perfect “moment of animation,” true identity.
prompting the photographer to act. The protest (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
fuels the photographer’s decision to capture what (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
he considers the most expressive angle. (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
58. Which option correctly identifies the connection Ans
between statements (1) and (2) after the photo (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
is taken?
Statement (1) : The photographer insists there Although both statements reveal the narrator’s
is nothing to see until the negative is developed. frustration, calling the photo a “worthless bauble”
Statement (2) : The narrator decides to return on (1) is a separate conclusion from accusing the
Saturday, as requested. photographer of erasing his identity (2). They
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false. happen together but don’t directly cause each other.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION
Ans
1. Read the following extract and answer the
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
questions that follow:
Since the photographer needs time to develop and “I began to see that I had done an unwarrantable
retouch the image, the narrator must come back thing in breaking in on the privacy of this man’s
later. Hence, the photographer’s statement about scientific pursuits with a face like mine. After an
waiting directly leads to the narrator returning hour the photographer opened the inner door.
on Saturday. ‘Come in,’ he said severely.”
(i) What does the speaker realize about his own
59. Choose the best option to show how statements
action?
(1) and (2) are linked when the narrator sees the
Why does he consider it “unwarrantable”?
proof.
What does this reveal about his attitude
Statement (1) : The narrator questions whether
toward the photographer?
the photo is really him.
(ii) What might the phrase “a face like mine”
Statement (2) : The photographer proudly reveals
suggest about the speaker’s self-perception?
he has “retouched” the eyes and altered the
How does it connect to the idea of “breaking
eyebrows.
in on the privacy” of the photographer?

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

quickly peeks, then adjusts the sheet and (a) 2, 3, 1, 4

window. (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
3. He returns under the black cloth, working (c) 1, 3, 4, 2
silently. (d) 3, 1, 2, 4
4. Emerging, he declares the face is “quite
Ans
wrong.”
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(b) 3, 1, 2, 4 The photographer first twists the narrator’s head
(c) 2, 3, 4, 1 (1). The narrator misreads this as a near kiss (2),
(d) 2, 1, 4, 3 then the photographer announces he dislikes the
Ans head (3) and gives new orders about opening and
closing the mouth (4).
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4
The narrator first settles in the sunlight (1). The 45. Which of the following sequences is correct, from
photographer peeks from inside the camera and the photographer’s detailed instructions to the
adjusts the setup (2), resumes work under the narrator’s protest?
black cloth (3), and then emerges with his harsh 1. The photographer wants the narrator to
verdict (4). droop ears, roll eyes, and expand lungs.
2. The narrator objects, saying, “Stop.”
43. Which choice correctly traces how the discussion 3. He declares, “This face is my face.”
about the narrator’s face unfolds? 4. The photographer suddenly snaps the picture.
1. The photographer suggests three-quarters (a) 2, 1, 3, 4
would improve the narrator’s face. (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
2. The narrator agrees and even jokes that (c) 1, 3, 2, 4
everyone’s face improves at that angle. (d) 3, 1, 2, 4
3. The narrator comments on faces becoming
Ans
“almost boundless.”
4. The photographer stops paying attention (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
entirely. First come the bizarre commands (1). Frustrated,
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3 the narrator tells him to stop (2) and insists the
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 face is his own (3). In the midst of this outburst,
(c) 3, 1, 2, 4 the photographer captures the shot (4).
(d) 1, 4, 2, 3
46. Which option arranges these moments correctly,
Ans
from the shot being taken to the narrator’s return
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 on Saturday?
First, the photographer suggests a three-quarters 1. The photographer claims he caught the
view (1). The narrator jokingly agrees (2) and narrator’s features at an “animated” moment.
explains how faces expand in that angle (3). 2. The narrator sarcastically demands to see the
Before he finishes, the photographer tunes out, photo.
ignoring the narrator’s extended commentary (4). 3. The photographer says there is nothing to see
yet.
44. Which option places these actions in the right 4. He tells the narrator to come back on
sequence, beginning when the photographer Saturday.
manipulates the narrator’s head? (a) 1, 2, 4, 3
1. The photographer twists the narrator’s head (b) 2, 3, 1, 4
sideways. (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
2. The narrator briefly believes the photographer (d) 3, 1, 2, 4
might kiss him.
Ans
3. The photographer remarks, “I don’t like the
head.” (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
4. He then has the narrator open and close his After taking the picture, the photographer boasts
mouth in quick succession. about the “animated” shot (1). The narrator

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a more old-fashioned or complex process of How does the photographer respond to the
photography, indicating that operating the narrator’s question?
camera involves physically entering its space, (v) Does this interaction convey a sense of quiet
even if only briefly. acceptance or underlying tension?
(iii) Upon emerging, the photographer appears What does it suggest about the relationship
agitated and immediately starts adjusting or dynamic between the narrator and the
the setup. The narrator notes how quickly photographer?
he moves and how urgent his actions seem,
Ans
underscoring the photographer’s near-
obsessive need for ideal lighting. (i) The narrator notices that the photographer
(iv) He tears at the cotton sheet and window panes seems quieter and graver than before.
with a hooked stick because he is desperate He appears different because he displays
to let in more natural light or air, suggesting a new level of seriousness and composure,
that the existing setup isn’t meeting his exact reflecting a personal investment in what he is
requirements. about to reveal.
Describing him as “frantic” emphasizes his This reveals that the photographer might be
intense focus and anxiety about creating experiencing a mix of calm confidence and
the right conditions, underscoring a sense of solemn pride, indicating his deep focus on the
urgency in his work. outcome of his work.
(v) There is a palpable urgency in the (ii) The phrase “a certain pride in his manner”
photographer’s actions as he scrambles to suggests that the photographer feels
manipulate light and air, but the narrator satisfaction or ownership of what he has
remains calm, merely observing the scene. created.
This contrast-one person calm, the other This pride is closely tied to the unveiling of
almost frantic-shapes our understanding of the photograph, indicating that he regards
the interaction as somewhat tense yet also his work as more than just a routine task
methodical. The narrator’s quiet demeanor and takes personal pleasure in its successful
makes the photographer’s behavior appear execution.
even more urgent by comparison. (iii) “Proof” implies a preliminary print or an
early version of the photograph meant for
3. Read the following extract and answer the review. It indicates that the image is still
questions that follow: subject to the photographer’s scrutiny and
“The photographer beckoned me in. I thought he possible adjustments before reaching its final
seemed quieter and graver than before. I think, form.
too, there was a certain pride in his manner. He (iv) The narrator first looks at the large
unfolded the proof of a large photograph, and we photograph in silence, prompting a cautious
both looked at it in silence. ‘Is it me?’ I asked. curiosity about whether it truly captures his
‘Yes,’ he said quietly, ‘it is you,’ and we went on likeness.
looking at it.” In response, the photographer quietly
(i) What does the narrator notice about the confirms that the picture is indeed of the
photographer’s demeanor? narrator, reinforcing the seriousness of the
Why does it appear different from before? moment and the significance of the image.
What does this reveal about his emotional (v) The scene conveys a sense of subdued calm
state? rather than overt tension. Both the narrator
(ii) What does the phrase “a certain pride in his and the photographer appear reflective,
manner” suggest about the photographer’s absorbed by the process of examining the
feelings? photograph.
How does this pride connect to the photograph This dynamic suggests a relationship built on
he is showing? a mutual understanding : the photographer
(iii) What is the significance of the word “proof” taking pride in his craft, and the narrator
in the context of the photograph? respectfully acknowledging the skill involved,
(iv) How does the narrator react upon first seeing resulting in an atmosphere of careful
the photograph? observation rather than conflict.

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

4. Read the following extract and answer the cares about both the result and the subject’s
questions that follow: feelings.
“The face is quite wrong,” he said. “I know,” I (iv) The photographer’s sigh introduces a note
answered quietly; “I have always known it.” He of concern or earnestness, indicating that he
sighed. “I think,” he said, “the face would be takes his craft seriously and is not satisfied
better three-quarters full.” “I’m sure it would,” with the current outcome.
I said enthusiastically, for I was glad to find that It underscores his careful attention to
the man had such a human side to him. detail and suggests he genuinely wants the
(i) What does the photographer mean by “The photograph to capture the best version of the
face is quite wrong”? speaker.
Why does the speaker agree, saying “I have (v) While the exchange begins with a critical
always known it”? remark about the speaker’s face, it settles into
What do these remarks reveal about their a more relaxed atmosphere as both parties
attitudes toward each other? align in trying to achieve a better result.
(ii) What does the photographer suggest doing to Their willingness to collaborate and openly
improve the speaker’s face in the photograph? discuss improvements highlights a growing
Why does the speaker respond so eagerly? sense of understanding, softening any initial
(iii) Why does the speaker feel relieved to discover tension between them.
this “human side” of the photographer?
(iv) How does the photographer’s sigh affect the 5. Read the following extract and answer the
mood of the conversation? questions that follow:
How does it reflect his concern for the outcome “But the photographer had ceased to listen. He
of the photograph? came over and took my head in his hands and
(v) Does this conversation carry a sense of tension twisted it sideways. I thought he meant to kiss
or a more relaxed atmosphere? me, and I closed my eyes. But I was wrong. He
In what way does this exchange show the twisted my face as far as it would go and then
growing rapport between the speaker and the stood looking at it. He sighed again. ‘I don’t like
photographer? the head,’ he said.”
Ans (i) Why had the photographer “ceased to listen”?
How does he handle the narrator’s head?
(i) The photographer finds fault with the How does the narrator interpret the action
speaker’s face, suggesting it doesn’t meet his at first?
idea of a good photographic subject. (ii) What is the narrator’s immediate reaction?
The speaker calmly agrees because he has What does this reveal about his emotional
long been aware of and self-conscious about state?
his appearance. (iii) What does the photographer’s statement
Together, their comments reveal a mutual “I don’t like the head” suggest about his
honesty : the photographer is direct about approach to photography?
what he perceives as a problem, and the (iv) How does the photographer physically
speaker’s acceptance indicates a willingness manipulate the narrator’s face?
to work together without taking offense. What does his second sigh indicate about his
(ii) He proposes adjusting the angle of the feelings or expectations?
speaker’s face, making it three-quarters full (v) Does this moment introduce any element of
rather than facing the camera head-on. humor or discomfort?
The speaker responds enthusiastically How does this exchange reflect the dynamic
because he welcomes any suggestion that between the narrator and the photographer?
might improve the photograph and is relieved
that the photographer is actively engaging to Ans
find a solution. (i) The photographer had “ceased to listen”
(iii) He feels relieved because this display of because he was entirely focused on arranging
understanding and creativity shows that the the narrator’s pose and scrutinizing how to
photographer is not merely cold or mechanical; capture the best angle, ignoring any further
instead, he has a softer, empathetic side that conversation.

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He takes hold of the narrator’s head and What does he mean by “it wasn’t made for
twists it sideways with a determined, almost me”?
abrupt movement, treating the narrator’s (ii) Why might the speaker refer to his face as
face as a subject to be repositioned rather “the only one I have”?
than a person to consult. How does his admission of loving his face “such
The narrator initially believes the as it is” reflect his attitude toward himself?
photographer might be about to kiss him, so (iii) Why is the speaker’s voice breaking as he
he closes his eyes in a moment of confusion continues speaking?
or surprise. (iv) What does the speaker mean by emphasizing
(ii) The narrator’s immediate reaction is to “this is my mouth, not yours”?
shut his eyes, misreading the photographer’s How does this statement affect the tone of the
intention. conversation?
This response reveals a mix of apprehension (v) Does the speaker’s reflection here suggest
and self-consciousness, showing how unsure confidence, vulnerability, or both? Give a
he is about what the photographer will do reason for your answer.
next. How might the photographer or listener react
(iii) When the photographer says, “I don’t like the to this declaration?
head,” it highlights his perfectionist outlook
Ans
and blunt manner. He regards the narrator’s
head as an object to be adjusted, reflecting (i) The speaker notes that he has lived with his
an impersonal, results-driven approach to his face for forty years, implying a long familiarity
craft. with its imperfections.
(iv) He physically manipulates the narrator’s face He calls it “out of drawing” to suggest that
by twisting it as far as it will go, as if he’s it feels misaligned or flawed in some way, as
testing different angles to see what might though it hasn’t been sketched correctly.
yield the most satisfactory photograph. By saying “it wasn’t made for me,” he conveys
His second sigh underlines his dissatisfaction a sense of disconnect or dissatisfaction, as if
and hints at growing frustration, implying he believes his features don’t quite suit his
that he hasn’t yet achieved the exact effect own personality or identity.
he wants. (ii) Referring to his face as “the only one I have”
(v) There is a thread of uncomfortable humor highlights his acceptance that he must live
in the narrator’s mistaken assumption about with whatever nature gave him, regardless of
a kiss, contrasted with the photographer’s its perceived faults.
clinical and rather brusque handling of his His admission that he has learned to love
subject. it, “such as it is,” shows a resigned but
The exchange underscores the uneasy balance caring attitude : though he acknowledges
between them : the photographer prioritizes imperfections, he refuses to reject the face
technical perfection above personal comfort, that defines him.
while the narrator struggles to interpret and (iii) His voice breaks because he is speaking
adapt to the photographer’s abrupt manner. with genuine feeling and possibly hurt. He
reveals a personal vulnerability in addressing
6. Read the following extract from the text and something so tied to his sense of self, indicating
answer the questions that follow: how deeply he cares about being understood
“I’ve lived with it for forty years and I know its and accepted.
faults. I know it’s out of drawing. I know it wasn’t (iv) By saying “this is my mouth, not yours,” the
made for me, but it’s my face, the only one I have speaker asserts ownership and autonomy over
-” I was conscious of a break in my voice but I his physical features. He wants to make clear
went on - “such as it is, I’ve learned to love it. that, despite any criticism, his face ultimately
And this is my mouth, not yours.” belongs to him alone.
(i) What does the speaker say about having lived This firm statement adds a note of defiance
with his face for forty years? and self-assertion, changing the tone from
Why does he describe his face as “out of apologetic or self-conscious to one of quiet
drawing”? resolve.

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

Because the narrator intrudes on the Statement (2) : The narrator enthusiastically
photographer’s “scientific pursuits,” he is made agrees, noting most faces seem wider from that
to wait, feeling increasingly uneasy. During this angle.
long wait, he has little else to do but read the (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
outdated magazines. (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
52. Which option best describes the relationship (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
between statements (1) and (2) when the narrator
first enters the studio? Ans
Statement (1) : The narrator sits in a beam of (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
sunlight filtered through a sheet of cotton.
After the photographer suggests a three-quarters
Statement (2) : The photographer crawls under
pose, the narrator chimes in with approval. His
the black cloth and remains silent for a while.
agreement is a direct reaction to the photographer’s
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
idea, so the photographer’s remark leads to the
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
narrator’s enthusiastic response.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. 55. Choose the relationship that best fits statements
Ans (1) and (2) about the narrator’s head being
twisted.
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. Statement (1) : The photographer grasps the
The narrator’s position in the sunlight doesn’t narrator’s head and twists it sideways.
cause the photographer’s silence. Rather, the Statement (2) : The narrator momentarily thinks
photographer’s quiet behavior stems from his the photographer wants to kiss him.
meticulous, “scientific” approach, while the (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
narrator simply follows instructions to sit where (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
he is told. (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
53. Select the option that shows the link
between statements (1) and (2) regarding the Ans
photographer’s first critique of the narrator’s face. (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
Statement (1) : The photographer declares, “The
Because the photographer unexpectedly twists the
face is quite wrong.”
narrator’s head, the narrator briefly misinterprets
Statement (2) : The narrator replies, “I know…I
the close physical contact. He closes his eyes,
have always known it.”
imagining it might be a kiss, so the action directly
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
triggers his mistaken assumption.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). 56. Which option explains how statements (1) and
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other. (2) connect after the photographer critiques the
Ans narrator’s mouth and ears?
Statement (1) : The photographer orders the
(c) (1) is the cause for (2). narrator to open and then close his mouth.
Hearing that his face is “wrong” prompts the Statement (2) : He also calls the narrator’s ears
narrator to respond with resigned acceptance. “bad” and asks him to droop them.
The photographer’s criticism directly causes (a) (1) is true and (2) is false.
the narrator’s slightly sarcastic and self-aware (b) (2) is true and (1) is false.
admission that he has always known about his (c) (1) is the cause for (2).
face’s imperfections. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
Ans
54. Which option correctly identifies how statements
(1) and (2) relate, when the photographer (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other.
proposes a three-quarters view? The photographer criticizes multiple features
Statement (1) : The photographer claims the face in quick succession. His complaint about the
would look better three-quarters full. narrator’s mouth doesn’t inherently cause the

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 205

(iv) What does the photographer say about the applied it to carry the hair away from the brow.
altered eyebrows? I don’t like the hair low on the skull.” “Oh, you
How does his quick glance at the speaker’s don’t, don’t you?” I said. “No,” he went on, “I
face reveal his approach? don’t care for it. I like to get the hair clear back
(v) Does this exchange suggest conflict or to the superficies and make out a new brow line.”
acceptance? (i) Why does the photographer refer to “the
How do the changes made by the photographer Delphide” process?
reflect broader themes of self-image? What does this method involve?
Why does he apply it to carry the hair away
Ans
from the brow?
(i) The speaker hesitates because the retouched (ii) What does the photographer mean by “I
eyes no longer resemble his own, making him don’t like the hair low on the skull”?
unsure about the photographer’s alterations. How does the speaker respond to this remark?
He feels they look unnatural or at odds with (iii) Why might the photographer prefer to “make
what he knows to be his real features. out a new brow line”?
The photographer explains that he has (iv) How does the phrase “carry the hair away
“retouched” the eyes and is quite pleased with from the brow” reflect his approach to
the result, regarding them as an improvement. retouching?
(ii) The speaker politely questions the authenticity What does “clear back to the superficies”
of the new eyes but acknowledges them as imply?
“fine,” indicating a mix of acceptance and (v) Does the photographer’s preference for a
mild unease. revised hairline suggest artistic creativity or a
The photographer likely calls them “splendid” disregard for the subject’s natural look?
because he believes his retouches enhance the How might the subject react to these drastic
overall look, reflecting his professional pride changes?
in creating a more idealized image.
(iii) He questions whether the eyebrows shown Ans
in the photograph belong to him, expressing (i) The photographer refers to the Delphide
disbelief at how different they appear process because it is a specialized method
compared to his real ones. he uses to alter or “put in new” features,
(iv) The photographer states that the eyebrows indicating a high level of retouching expertise.
have been removed and replaced as part of This method involves manipulating the
the retouching process, as if erasing them hairline and brow, effectively shifting where
were a routine modification. the hair appears to grow so that it suits his
His quick glance suggests he views the speaker’s ideal vision for the photograph.
face primarily as a canvas to be adjusted, He applies it to carry the hair away from the
revealing a detached, perhaps impersonal brow in order to reshape the subject’s overall
approach to capturing the “perfect” portrait. look, reflecting his belief that a higher brow
(v) There is a subtle conflict in that the speaker line is more aesthetically pleasing.
senses his own features are being disregarded (ii) When he says “I don’t like the hair low on the
in favor of the photographer’s vision, yet he skull,” the photographer reveals his personal
also shows a level of acceptance by continuing bias for a more elevated hairline, suggesting
the conversation without outright protest. he believes it gives a cleaner or more refined
These alterations highlight the tension appearance.
between one’s authentic self and society’s-or The speaker reacts somewhat skeptically but
an artist’s-desire for a more polished, idealized continues to engage with the photographer’s
appearance, reflecting ongoing themes of ideas, possibly feeling surprised or uneasy
identity and self-perception. about such drastic alterations yet still curious
about the outcome.
9. Read the following extract from the text and (iii) The photographer might prefer to “make out
answer the questions that follow: a new brow line” because it aligns with his
“We have a process now–the Delphide–for putting goal of creating what he views as a more ideal
in new ones. You’ll notice here where we’ve or artistic rendition of the subject’s features,

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

(iii) What does the term “scientific pursuits” 2. Read the following extract and answer the
imply about the photographer’s work? questions that follow:
(iv) What happens after an hour? “I sat down in a beam of sunlight filtered through
How does the photographer address the a sheet of factory cotton hung against a frosted
speaker? skylight. The photographer rolled a machine into
(v) Does the photographer’s tone indicate the middle of the room and crawled into it from
acceptance or annoyance? Give a reason for behind. He was only in it a second, – just time
your answer. enough for one look at me, – and then he was out
How does this moment balance humor and again, tearing at the cotton sheet and the window
seriousness? panes with a hooked stick, apparently frantic for
Ans light and air.”
(i) What setting does the narrator find himself
(i) The speaker realizes that his sudden arrival
in?
and intrusion upon the photographer’s
Why are the references to “factory cotton”
workspace was inappropriate.
and a “frosted skylight” significant?
He considers it “unwarrantable” because he
What do they reveal about the conditions of
feels guilty for disturbing someone deeply
this photography session?
focused on a careful, possibly methodical
(ii) Why does the photographer roll a machine
task, suggesting there was no valid reason for
into the middle of the room?
him to barge in.
What does his action of crawling into it from
This reveals his respect for the photographer’s
behind suggest about the process of taking a
work and his regret for interfering in
photograph?
something he views as important.
(iii) How does the narrator describe the
(ii) The phrase “a face like mine” suggests
photographer’s reaction after he emerges
the speaker feels self-conscious about his
from the machine?
appearance and worries that it might
(iv) Why does the photographer tear at the cotton
complicate the photographer’s process.
sheet and window panes with a hooked stick?
It underscores his sense that he is intruding
How does the word “frantic” help us
on the photographer’s privacy, believing his
understand his state of mind?
own presence-and his face-could impose extra
(v) Do you sense any urgency or tension in this
demands on the photographer’s careful work.
scene?
(iii) Describing the photographer’s work as
How does the narrator’s calm observation of
“scientific pursuits” implies that it is
the photographer’s actions shape our view of
methodical, precise, or experimental, rather
their interaction?
than a simple, everyday task. The speaker’s
choice of words indicates a measure of awe or Ans
respect, viewing the photographer’s efforts as (i) The narrator is seated in a patch of sunlight
meticulous and specialized. that comes through a piece of factory cotton
(iv) After an hour, the photographer finally opens draped against a frosted skylight.
the inner door, suggesting he has finished his These details suggest a makeshift or
preparations or reached a stopping point in improvised setup in a dim room, where the
his work. photographer relies on minimal natural light
He addresses the speaker with a stern “Come filtered through a simple cloth barrier.
in,” reflecting annoyance or impatience at The conditions imply that the photography
having been interrupted. session requires careful manipulation of light,
(v) The photographer’s tone indicates annoyance highlighting the challenging and somewhat
rather than acceptance, as conveyed by the primitive environment in which they are
severity in his voice. working.
There is a balance of humor and seriousness (ii) The photographer rolls a machine into
in the scene : the speaker’s self-deprecating the center of the room so he can take the
reference to “a face like mine” adds a comic narrator’s photograph under the best possible
element, while the photographer’s stern lighting conditions.
demeanor highlights the gravity of disturbing By crawling into it from behind, he reveals
someone engrossed in their work.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 207

it, – dip it in sulphide, bromide, oxide, cowhide, – reanimating the necktie, and reconstructing
anything you like, – remove the eyes, correct the the waistcoat. This long, almost exaggerated
mouth, adjust the face, restore the lips, reanimate list shows his exasperation and a kind of bitter
the necktie and reconstruct the waistcoat.” surrender. He rattles off the possibilities as
(i) Why does the speaker say, “It seems that I if everything about him is up for alteration,
was mistaken”? which reveals his resigned and sarcastic frame
What realization has led him to this of mind.
conclusion? (iv) By telling the photographer to proceed with
How does this affect his attitude toward the these drastic modifications, the speaker shows
photographer’s methods? he has given up on maintaining authenticity
(ii) Why does the speaker describe the work as and no longer tries to preserve his true
“brutal”? appearance.
What do the references to “sulphide, bromide, This contrasts sharply with his earlier
oxide, cowhide” suggest about his feelings reactions, where he was more hesitant and
toward the process? protested certain changes. Now, he appears
(iii) Which features does the speaker mention for drained of the will to resist and simply allows
alteration and what does this reveal about his the photographer free rein.
state of mind? (v) There is a strong sense of both irony and
(iv) What does the speaker’s acceptance of these resignation in his words. He uses sarcastic
extreme changes imply about his view of the permission-“anything you like”-to highlight
photography process now? how ridiculous the process has become, as
How does this compare to his earlier reactions? though mocking the photographer’s all-
(v) Do you sense any irony or resignation in the powerful retouching.
speaker’s words? This underscores a broader conflict between
How do they highlight the broader theme of authenticity and manipulated perfection,
authenticity versus artistic manipulation? revealing the tension between a subject’s real
identity and the photographer’s pursuit of an
Ans
idealized image.
(i) The speaker says, “It seems that I was
mistaken” because he has realized that the 12. Read the following extract from the text and
kind of natural, minimally retouched photo answer the questions that follow:
he originally wanted is simply not going to “Coat it with an inch of gloss, shade it, emboss
happen. it gild it, till even you acknowledge that it is
This moment of recognition shifts his finished. Then when you have done all that – keep
perspective from hope or trust in the it for yourself and your friends. They may value
photographer’s methods to a wry acceptance it. To me it is but a worthless bauble.” I broke
that the photographer will continue altering into tears and left.
his features regardless. (i) Why does the speaker list multiple ways to
Consequently, he becomes more cynical about enhance or “finish” the picture?
the process, resigning himself to the fact that What does this reveal about the speaker’s
his wishes aren’t really being considered. final stance toward the photograph?
(ii) He describes the work as “brutal” because it (ii) Why does the speaker say, “keep it for yourself
blatantly disregards his natural attributes in and your friends”?
favor of heavy-handed alterations. What do the words “They may value it”
By citing substances like “sulphide, bromide, imply about the speaker’s view of the final
oxide, cowhide,” he implies that the process is result?
not only harsh and invasive but almost absurd, (iii) Why does the speaker call it “but a worthless
emphasizing his frustration and disbelief at bauble”?
the lengths to which the photographer will (iv) How does the speaker’s emotional response,
go. breaking into tears and leaving, reflect his
(iii) The speaker lists a range of features to overall experience?
be changed-removing eyes, correcting the What does it suggest about the outcome of
mouth, adjusting the face, restoring the lips, the session?

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Ch 1 : With the Photographer

(v) The speaker’s words suggest a blend of both precisely what a photographer hopes for.
vulnerability-he openly confesses the flaws he By saying he “caught the features just in
perceives-and confidence in finally standing a moment of animation,” he means the
up for and accepting himself. subject’s expression was at its most vivid or
Anyone observing or listening might respond expressive, giving the photograph a natural,
with empathy or understanding, recognizing lifelike quality.
the courage it takes to claim and cherish what (iii) It conveys spontaneity by showing how quickly
you’ve long seen as imperfect. and unexpectedly the photograph was taken,
with the narrator barely having time to react.
7. Read the following extract from the text and The brisk motion and the photographer’s
answer the questions that follow: swift declaration imply an unplanned but
“Snick! The photographer had pulled a string. successful shot.
The photograph taken. I could see the machine (iv) The narrator likely experiences a moment of
still staggering from the shock ‘I think,’ said the surprise or mild amusement at how abruptly
photographer, pursing his lips in a pleased smile, the picture is taken, but also a degree of
‘that I caught the features just in a moment of admiration for the photographer’s skill.
animation.’” Describing the machine as “still staggering”
(i) What happens the moment the photographer personifies the camera, hinting at how
pulls the string? powerful or startling the flash and mechanics
How does the narrator describe the machine’s can be, especially in an older or more
reaction? rudimentary setup.
Why might the “snick” sound be significant? (v) There is a hint of humor in the sudden
(ii) Why is the photographer smiling? click and the photographer’s triumphant
What does he mean by “caught the features pronouncement, particularly as the machine
just in a moment of animation”? seems to “stagger.” However, one might also
(iii) How does this scene convey a sense of sense tension if the narrator was unprepared
spontaneity in the photograph? for such a jarring moment.
(iv) What might be the narrator’s response to this This decisive action concludes the session on
sudden action? a note of satisfaction for the photographer,
How does the phrase “the machine still suggesting he has finally achieved the result
staggering” reflect on the photographer’s he wanted and bringing the photo-taking
equipment? process to a close.
(v) Do you find humor or tension in the
photographer’s sudden move and comment? 8. Read the following extract from the text and
Give a reason for your answer. answer the questions that follow:
How does this final action bring closure to “The eyes,” I said hesitatingly, “don’t look very
the session between the photographer and the much like mine.” “Oh, no,” he answered, “I’ve
narrator? retouched them. They come out splendidly, don’t
they?” “Fine,” I said, “but surely my eyebrows are
Ans
not like that?” “No,” said the photographer, with
(i) The moment he pulls the string, the camera a momentary glance at my face, “the eyebrows
immediately captures the image with a quick, are removed.”
sharp sound. (i) Why is the speaker hesitant about the eyes?
The narrator notices the machine “staggering Why doesn’t the speaker think they look like
from the shock,” suggesting a jolt or recoil his own?
as if even the equipment felt the force of the What is the photographer’s explanation for
click. their appearance?
This “snick” sound underscores the (ii) How does the speaker respond to the
suddenness and mechanical nature of early retouched eyes?
photographic processes, emphasizing how Why might the photographer call them
instant and decisive the act of taking a photo “splendid”?
can be. (iii) What doubt does the speaker express about
(ii) He smiles because he believes he has captured his eyebrows?
the subject at a perfect, lively instant-

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 209

CHAPTER
2
THE ELEVATOR

INTRODUCTIO 2. Martin’s Father : He works from home and shows

little understanding of Martin’s anxiety. Instead
of comforting Martin, he scolds him for his fear
William Sleator’s short story “The Elevator”
and pressures him to “act like a man.”
follows Martin, a 12-year-old boy who dreads
3. The Fat Lady : She is a strange, unsettling woman
riding in a cramped elevator. He and his father
who appears in the elevator with Martin. Her
move into a new apartment building with an even
constant staring and sudden, frightening actions
tinier one, making Martin’s fears even worse.
make Martin’s elevator fears much more intense.
A strange older woman keeps riding with him,
intensifying his anxiety. One day, she suddenly
stops the elevator, trapping Martin inside, and
his fear becomes real. Although the story seems
simple at first, it grows more intriguing as Martin
SUMMAR
adapts to a new neighborhood and faces modern
1. Setting and Martin’s Fear : The story takes place
technology. By the end, it turns from a quiet tale
in an old building with a small, shaky elevator.
into a tense, unsettling narrative.
Martin, a twelve-year-old boy, feels extremely
anxious whenever he rides it. Its doors slam shut
quickly, the walls are dirty, and it moves with
ABOUT THE AUTHO a tired, shuddering motion. Despite his fear,
Martin’s only other option is the dark, windowless
staircase, which is just as scary for him.
William Sleator was an American writer and
2. Conflict with the Father : Martin’s father works
science fiction author. He was born on February
from home and shows little understanding of
13, 1945, in Havre de Grace, Maryland, and died
Martin’s worries. He criticizes Martin for being
on August 3, 2011. He is best known for writing
timid, telling him to “act like a man.” Because
books for young readers that focus on family
Martin wants to please his father, he continues
problems, strange events, and fears. His stories
using the elevator, even though it frightens him
use science and mystery to make everyday life
every time.
feel exciting or scary. Many teens enjoy his work
3. Encounter with the Fat Lady : During one ride,
because they relate to the characters’ feelings and
Martin meets a fat lady in a green coat who stares
worries. By mixing normal life with spooky or
at him without speaking. This strange woman
futuristic ideas, Sleator’s books remain popular,
seems to appear on different floors at odd times.
and people of all ages still like to read them.
She crowds Martin in the elevator and never looks
away, causing him even more fear and confusion.
4. Growing Tension : Martin tries to explain his
worries to his father, but he gets no sympathy.
MAIN CHARACTER His father dismisses the situation as Martin’s wild
imagination. Each new meeting with the fat lady
1. Martin : Martin is a twelve-year-old boy who is becomes scarier as Martin cannot understand her
afraid of the old, cramped elevator in his new motives.
apartment building. Although he wants to be 5. Martin’s Fall and Helplessness : One morning,
brave, his father’s harsh words make his fears Martin panics and decides to use the stairs. He
even worse. accidentally falls, breaking his leg. Now forced

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

to use crutches, Martin can no longer avoid 30. Slammed : Closed forcefully and loudly.
the elevator. His father still thinks Martin is 31. Timid : Showing a lack of courage or confidence.
overreacting. 32. Expression : A look on someone’s face that shows
6. The Final Trap : When Martin’s father leaves him an emotion.
alone inside the elevator, the fat lady appears 33. Crutches : Devices used to assist walking,
once more. She quickly boards, greets Martin by especially when injured.
name, and hits the Stop button, trapping him. 34. Hospital : A place for medical care and treatment.
The story ends on this tense moment, leaving us 35. Hobbled : Walked with difficulty, often due to an
unsure of Martin’s fate. injury.
36. Afraid : Feeling fear or apprehension.
37. Pleaded : Made an emotional request.
38. Impatiently : Without patience or tolerance.
WORD MEANING 39. Disappointed : Feeling let down or unsatisfied.
40. Coward : Someone lacking courage.
1. Elevator : A platform or cabin for transporting
people between floors.
2. Apartment : A residential unit in a building.
3. Nervous : Feeling anxious or uneasy. CRITICAL COMMENT
4. Uncomfortable : Feeling unease or distress.
5. Clanging : A loud metallic sound. 1. Fear as a Driving Force : Martin’s phobia of
6. Shuddered : Trembled or shook slightly. the cramped elevator creates constant tension,
7. Exhausted : Extremely tired or worn out. making everyday elements feel threatening.
8. Crowded : Filled with too many people or objects. 2. Unsupportive Parenting : Martin’s father mocks
9. Cement : A building material used for constructing his fear, heightening Martin’s sense of isolation
floors and walls. and increasing his anxiety.
10. Echoed : Repeated sound bouncing back. 3. Mysterious Woman : The fat lady represents
11. Gasping : Struggling to breathe, usually after Martin’s worst nightmares, silently intensifying
exertion. his terror by trapping him in the elevator.
12. Frowning : Expressing displeasure or concern with 4. Isolation and Helplessness : With no one to
a facial expression. understand his fears, Martin feels more vulnerable,
13. Skinny : Very thin or underweight. especially after breaking his leg.
14. Weak : Lacking physical strength. 5. Uncertain Ending : The story closes on an
15. Bullied : Intimidated or mistreated by others. unresolved note, emphasizing that fear can remain
16. Passengers : People traveling in a vehicle or unaddressed.
elevator.
17. Ballooned : Swelled or puffed out.
18. Waddled : Walked with a side-to-side motion, like
a duck. MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
19. Fleshy : Having a lot of soft tissue or fat.
20. Piggish : Resembling a pig, often in appearance.
21. Creaked : Made a high-pitched sound due to 1. What detail about the building made Martin
strain or movement. uneasy from the start?
22. Lobby : The entrance area of a building. (a) Its age
23. Nightmare : A frightening or unpleasant (b) Its new paint
experience, often during sleep. (c) Its busy lobby
24. Pudgy : Slightly fat or plump. (d) Its loud neighbors
25. Trembled : Shook involuntarily, often from fear Ans
or anxiety.
26. Horrible : Extremely unpleasant or bad. (a) Its age
27. Scratchy : Rough or irritating to touch. The building’s antiquity, dim lighting, and small
28. Staring : Looking fixedly at something or someone. elevator suggest potential mechanical issues. This
29. Ashamed : Feeling embarrassed or guilty about amplifies Martin’s fears about being trapped.
something.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 211

2. Why did Martin dislike being in the elevator with (c) Playful
other passengers? (d) Compassionate
(a) He wanted to greet them but was too shy
Ans
(b) He disliked close proximity and forced silence
(c) He enjoyed conversation but no one responded (b) Menacing
(d) He felt too hot inside with many people From her unbroken stare and imposing presence,
Ans Martin senses a threat, triggering immediate
alarm and unease.
(b) He disliked close proximity and forced silence
Martin feels awkward with strangers in a tight 7. Why did the fat lady’s presence in the elevator
space, and the unspoken rule of not acknowledging disturb Martin so much?
each other heightens his claustrophobia. (a) She sang loudly
(b) She recognized him from school
3. Which floor did Martin and his father live on? (c) She stared without speaking
(a) Seventh (d) She offered him candy
(b) Ninth Ans
(c) Twelfth
(c) She stared without speaking
(d) Seventeenth
The silent, continuous observation made Martin
Ans suspect the worst. It felt threatening and seemed
(d) Seventeenth to confirm she had a strange fixation on him.
Martin must travel many floors, and the elevator’s 8. When the fat lady joined Martin on the elevator
every shudder feeds his anxiety on each long ride. the second time, which floor did she press?
4. What caused Martin’s father to frown when (a) 14
Martin was out of breath? (b) 18
(a) Martin’s tardiness (c) 10
(b) Martin’s fear of the elevator (d) 3
(c) Martin’s lost backpack Ans
(d) Martin’s injury
(b) 18
Ans Her unpredictability in choosing floors heightens
(b) Martin’s fear of the elevator Martin’s suspicion that she’s deliberately toying
His father disapproves of Martin’s reluctance to with him.
use the elevator, attributing it to cowardice and 9. What does Martin imagine might happen if the
weakness. elevator suddenly stopped?
5. How does Martin’s father view his son’s concerns? (a) He could call for help
(a) As childish and unfounded (b) He could easily escape
(b) As worthy of immediate support (c) He’d be trapped for hours
(c) As comical entertainment (d) He’d read a book
(d) As heroic bravery Ans
Ans (c) He’d be trapped for hours
(a) As childish and unfounded Being confined inside a failing elevator is Martin’s
Throughout the story, the father dismisses greatest fear, driving his reluctance to ride it.
Martin’s fears, showing little understanding or 10. What feature of the elevator door bothered
empathy toward his legitimate anxieties. Martin?
6. Which word best describes Martin’s initial (a) It opened too fast
impression of the fat lady? (b) It never fully closed
(a) Friendly (c) It stayed open for a long time
(b) Menacing (d) It slammed shut abruptly

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

Ans Having no one to validate his fears, Martin’s

(d) It slammed shut abruptly anxiety escalates upon confronting her again, this
time more vulnerable than ever.
The door’s loud clang and rapid closure enhance
Martin’s dread of being pinned or locked in. 15. In Martin’s mind, what does the fat lady’s smile
indicate near the end?
11. Why does Martin think the fat lady “had to be
(a) Polite greeting
crazy”?
(b) Knowledge of his forced reliance on the
(a) She kept screaming
elevator
(b) She stared at him ceaselessly
(c) Complete misunderstanding
(c) She spoke incoherently
(d) Remorse for scaring him
(d) She tried to help him
Ans
Ans
(b) Knowledge of his forced reliance on the
(b) She stared at him ceaselessly
elevator
Her unsettling, wordless fixation suggests irrational
Martin interprets her smile as triumphant,
behavior to Martin, leaving him convinced she
believing she anticipated his injury would leave
might be dangerous.
him defenseless.
12. How does Martin’s father react when Martin
16. Why does Martin run nearly all the way to school
mentions the strange lady?
the first time?
(a) Immediately calls security
(a) He’s late for class
(b) Ignores him and leaves
(b) He wants extra exercise
(c) Accuses him of imagining things
(c) He’s scared of the fat lady
(d) Encourages him to face her
(d) He forgot his lunch at home
Ans
Ans
(c) Accuses him of imagining things
(c) He’s scared of the fat lady
The father dismisses Martin’s worries, attributing
The unsettling elevator ride intensifies Martin’s
them to his son’s overactive fear, thereby isolating
fears, compelling him to escape as soon as possible.
Martin further.
17. How does Martin feel about his father’s attitude
13. What event forced Martin to rely entirely on the
toward his fears?
elevator?
(a) Thankful for his father’s concern
(a) His father’s warning
(b) Comforted by his father’s empathy
(b) A school competition
(c) Hurt and misunderstood
(c) His broken leg
(d) Proud that his father notices him
(d) A thunderstorm
Ans
Ans
(c) Hurt and misunderstood
(c) His broken leg
His father’s scorn leaves Martin feeling alone
After falling on the dark stairs, Martin can’t
and ashamed, with no emotional support for his
climb 17 floors on crutches, making the elevator
genuine anxieties.
his only option.

14. Which best describes Martin’s reaction when he 18. Which of the following contributed to Martin’s
first sees the fat lady after leaving the hospital? fear of using the stairs?
(a) Relief that she’s gone (a) Too many friends on the stairs
(b) Excitement to greet her (b) The bright lights
(c) Happiness at her concern (c) The presence of a security guard
(d) Panic at being alone with her (d) Darkness and echoing footsteps
Ans Ans
(d) Panic at being alone with her (d) Darkness and echoing footsteps

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 213

The stairs offered no comfortthey were unlit, and 23. What is the tone of the story’s ending?
his echoing steps suggested someone following (a) Joyful resolution
him, compounding his terror. (b) Lighthearted humor
(c) Suspenseful horror
19. Which best captures the reason Martin can no (d) Disappointing confusion
longer avoid the elevator after his accident?
(a) He lost his keys Ans
(b) He wants to see the fat lady again (c) Suspenseful horror
(c) He physically can’t climb the stairs
The fat lady stops the elevator while laughing,
(d) He made a promise to his father
confirming Martin’s worst fears and leaving the
Ans reader with a chilling, unresolved outcome.
(c) He physically can’t climb the stairs 24. Which theme is underscored by Martin’s father’s
His broken leg removes any remaining choice; dismissive attitude?
Martin must confront the elevator and the (a) The value of independence
dangerous woman he fears. (b) The importance of supportive parenting
(c) The dangers of curiosity
20. What does Martin most likely fear the fat lady (d) The significance of following rules
might do?
(a) Offer him food Ans
(b) Insult his father (b) The importance of supportive parenting
(c) Harm him when they’re alone
Had Martin’s father taken his fears seriously, he
(d) Give him some unwanted gifts
might have protected him. Instead, he dismisses
Ans them, revealing how vital empathy is for a child’s
(c) Harm him when they’re alone sense of safety.

Her silent aggression and strange, fixated behavior 25. How does the fat lady’s final action shape the
convince Martin she poses a real threat, especially story’s horror element?
in the confined elevator. (a) She comforts Martin
(b) She stops the elevator, trapping Martin
21. Which statement about Martin’s father is true? (c) She invites his father inside
(a) He empathizes with Martin’s fears (d) She apologizes sincerely
(b) He scolds Martin for being childish
(c) He moves out of the apartment with Martin Ans
(d) He warns the fat lady to stay away (b) She stops the elevator, trapping Martin
Ans By pressing the Stop button and laughing, she
(b) He scolds Martin for being childish literalizes Martin’s deepest fear-being held
captive-and cements the suspenseful, terrifying
Throughout the story, Martin’s father repeatedly climax of the story.
criticizes him rather than offering comfort or
investigating the situation. 26. Martin was described as ______ because he
was skinny.
22. At the story’s climax, why can’t Martin escape (a) a short teenager
when the fat lady enters the elevator? (b) a tall kid
(a) The door was too wide (c) a thin twelve-year-old
(b) His crutches slow him (d) a muscular boy
(c) She held the door open
(d) His father insisted he stay Ans

Ans (c) a thin twelve-year-old

(b) His crutches slow him From the story’s opening lines, Martin is portrayed
as thin and only twelve. The description emphasizes
Because of his injured leg, Martin can’t slip past his slight build, highlighting his vulnerability in
quickly, giving the fat lady enough time to corner both physical and emotional terms.
him and press Stop.

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

42. Arrange the following events in their proper First, she unnerves him with her stare (1). Martin
sequence: speculates she might be a visitor (2). Later, she
1. Martin worries the elevator might fail at any reappears on the third floor (3), making Martin
moment. question her top-floor errand (4).
2. Martin tries to tolerate other passengers
despite his anxiety. 45. Order these four statements properly to reflect
3. The fat lady appears for the first time. the narrative timeline:
4. Martin continues using the elevator to avoid 1. The elevator trembles as it ascends to the
being called a coward. eighteenth floor.
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 2. Martin hopes to press seven to exit early.
(b) 4, 1, 2, 3 3. The fat lady enters on the third floor.
(c) 2, 1, 4, 3 4. Martin must squeeze past her scratchy coat.
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2 (a) 3, 1, 2, 4
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4
Ans (c) 4, 2, 1, 3
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (d) 1, 3, 4, 2
He fears a sudden drop (1), endures other riders Ans
(2), encounters the fat lady (3), yet sticks to the (a) 3, 1, 2, 4
elevator to please his father and avoid labels of
cowardice (4). She gets on at floor three (3), the elevator rattles
going to eighteen (1), Martin wishes to bail on
43. Which of the options below places these story seven (2), and he’s forced into contact with her
moments in chronological order? bulky coat (4).
1. The fat lady stares fixedly at Martin.
2. She gets on at the fourteenth floor. 46. Rearrange the statements to match the actual
3. Martin tries to run away but can’t. flow of events:
4. Martin squeezes himself into the corner. 1. Martin is reluctant to mention the fat lady to
(a) 2, 4, 1, 3 his father.
(b) 4, 3, 2, 1 2. Martin finally tells his father about her.
(c) 1, 3, 4, 2 3. His father dismisses the story, implying
(d) 2, 1, 4, 3 Martin’s fear is baseless.
4. Martin worries she knows he lives on
Ans seventeen.
(a) 2, 4, 1, 3 (a) 1, 4, 2, 3
(b) 4, 1, 3, 2
She boards at floor fourteen (2), forcing Martin
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
against the corner (4). She then stares relentlessly
(d) 2, 1, 4, 3
(1). Martin can’t slip by in that cramped space
and is stuck (3). Ans

44. Decide the correct sequence of these parts from (c) 1, 2, 3, 4

the story: He’s hesitant to reveal his concerns (1), but
1. She stares at him on that morning ride. eventually confesses (2). Father laughs it off (3),
2. Martin tries to guess if she is merely visiting while Martin grows more fearful, realizing she
someone. knows his floor number (4).
3. Martin encounters her again on the third
floor. 47. Which sequence accurately reflects how these
4. He wonders why she travels to the top floor. events unfold?
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 1. Martin’s father calls her “some poor old
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 lady.”
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 2. Father scolds Martin for being timid.
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2 3. Martin holds back his tears.
4. Martin retreats to his room afterward.
Ans (a) 4, 2, 1, 3
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 (b) 1, 2, 3, 4

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 215

35. Martin wanted to run past the fat lady but him deliberately, with no way for him to escape
______. or summon help.
(a) he rushed out first
(b) there was no room 39. The elevator seemed slower to Martin because
(c) he had big courage ______.
(d) she quickly vanished there (a) the cables broke down
(b) the lift was empty
Ans (c) the building was new
(b) there was no room (d) his fears grew stronger
The elevator’s small interior leaves Martin with Ans
no space to maneuver around the fat lady. He (d) his fears grew stronger
feels both physically and psychologically enclosed,
intensifying his panic to escape. Fear distorts Martin’s perception of time and
speed. Each floor feels interminable as he anxiously
36. Martin felt embarrassed about fearing the old imagines the fat lady might do something
lady because ______. threatening before reaching his destination.
(a) she stayed far away
(b) she admired his father 40. Martin’s father believed Martin was ______
(c) she was very kind because he was timid.
(d) she was just old (a) always smiling calmly
(b) very responsible indeed
Ans (c) proud of his bravery
(d) she was just old (d) not acting like a man
Martin knows that being afraid of an old woman Ans
seems unreasonable, heightening his sense of (d) not acting like a man
shame. He tries to rationalize his fear, yet her
behavior unnerves him regardless. Martin’s father equates courage with masculinity,
implying Martin’s fear makes him immature or
37. Martin recognized the same green coat that weak. This attitude exacerbates Martin’s sense of
______. isolation and undermines his self-confidence.
(a) matched his father’s jacket
(b) was sold in spring 41. Identify the correct order of these events from the
(c) turned into a uniform story:
(d) belonged to the fat lady 1. Martin and his father move into a new
building.
Ans 2. Martin tries the stairs but finds them dark
(d) belonged to the fat lady and scary.
3. Martin’s father frowns at him for avoiding the
The green coat ballooning around her is a
elevator.
distinguishing feature. Recalling its color and
4. Martin grows nervous about the small old
bulk, Martin immediately recognizes her presence
elevator.
even before seeing her face.
(a) 1, 4, 2, 3
38. Martin felt trapped when the fat lady pressed (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
______. (c) 2, 1, 4, 3
(a) the Stop button (d) 4, 2, 3, 1
(b) the first floor Ans
(c) the lobby bell
(d) the alarm system (a) 1, 4, 2, 3
They move in (1), Martin feels uneasy about the
Ans
elevator (4), then tries the dimly lit stairs (2).
(a) the Stop button Finally, he’s chided by his father for refusing the
By pressing Stop, she seizes control of the elevator, elevator (3).
confirming Martin’s worst fearthat she might trap

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

The details of her heavy breathing, the lack prone to overthinking after their unsettling
of conversation, and his inability to pass encounter.
underscore why he might feel anxious or (iv) The early hour accentuates Martin’s curiosity
trapped in that moment. because most people are either rushing off to
work or still at home, not casually arriving or
5. Read the following extract from the text and leaving.
answer the questions that follow: He assumes that if she were a usual resident,
“He thought about her all day. Did she live in the he would recognize her schedule or at least
building? He had never seen her before, and the have seen her before, leading him to think
building was not very big. Maybe she was visiting something unusual might be going on.
somebody? But 7.30 in the morning was too early (v) One could argue his concern is somewhat
for visiting.” understandable, given the odd circumstances
(i) Why does Martin think about her all day? and his uneasy feeling from their earlier
Why does he wonder if she lives in the meeting.
building? Yet it’s also possible he is overthinking the
In what way does the building’s size make her situation : the woman might simply have a
presence unusual? routine or reason Martin doesn’t know about.
(ii) Why does Martin consider the possibility The extract’s emphasis on his repeated
that she might be visiting someone? questions suggests he may be dwelling on it
How does the time of day lead him to doubt more than necessary.
this explanation?
6. Read the following extract from the text and
(iii) What does Martin’s focus on these questions
reveal about his state of mind? answer the questions that follow:
(iv) How might the early morning hour heighten “Martin felt nervous when he got back to the
Martin’s curiosity about the woman? building after school. But why should he be afraid
What assumptions might he be making about of an old lady? He felt ashamed of himself. He
typical routines? pressed the button and stepped into the elevator,
(v) Do you think Martin’s concern is justified, or hoping that it would not stop, but it stopped on
is he overthinking the situation? the third floor.”
What details in the extract support your (i) Why does Martin feel nervous?
view? Why does he wonder why he should be afraid
of an old lady?
Ans How does feeling ashamed add to his
(i) He thinks about her all day because their brief discomfort?
encounter in the elevator clearly left a strong (ii) What does Martin do when he arrives at the
impression on him, stirring up questions he building?
can’t easily answer. Why does he hope the elevator will not stop?
He wonders if she lives in the building because (iii) Why does the elevator stopping on the third
it’s small, and he believes he would have floor heighten Martin’s anxiety?
noticed her before. (iv) How might the sudden stop reflect Martin’s
Since he has never seen her around, her ongoing fears?
sudden appearance feels out of place. What thoughts could be running through his
(ii) Martin considers the idea that she might be mind as the door opens?
visiting someone, trying to find a reasonable (v) Do you think Martin’s worry is reasonable or
explanation for seeing a stranger so early in exaggerated?
the morning. Which details in the extract support your
However, he doubts this because 7.30 a.m. viewpoint?
seems too early for a casual visit, which Ans
makes the situation more puzzling.
(iii) His preoccupation with these questions shows (i) Martin feels nervous because of his previous
he is both curious and somewhat uneasy. unsettling encounter with an old lady in the
He can’t let go of the mystery surrounding elevator.
the woman, suggesting he may be anxious or He questions why he should be afraid of an
elderly person, realizing it seems irrational or

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 217

(c) 2, 3, 4, 1 50. Pick the best chronological arrangement for the

(d) 2, 1, 4, 3 events listed below:
1. Father steps off at nine, telling Martin to
Ans
“grow up.”
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 2. Martin tries pressing nine but it fails.
Father trivializes Martin’s fear by calling her just 3. The elevator stops at ten.
an old lady (1). He then reproaches Martin (2). 4. The fat lady slips in before Martin escapes.
Martin struggles not to cry (3) and hides away in (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
his room (4). (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(c) 2, 1, 4, 3
48. Select the correct progression of the story from (d) 2, 3, 4, 1
these four statements:
Ans
1. The fat lady waits for Martin in the morning.
2. She smiles at him just before the door closes. (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
3. Martin flees down the stairs in panic. Father exits on the ninth floor and admonishes
4. Martin falls and breaks his leg. Martin (1). Martin urgently presses nine, but
(a) 1, 2, 4, 3 it fails (2). The elevator then halts on ten (3),
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4 letting the fat lady enter (4).
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2 51. Determine how statements (1) and (2) relate in
the context of Martin’s experiences:
Ans
Statement (1) : The building’s elevator felt
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 cramped and poorly lit, making Martin uneasy.
He sees her ready in the elevator (1). She offers Statement (2) : Martin used the dark stairs once
an unsettling smile (2), prompting him to rush but found them equally frightening.
away (3). In the chaotic escape, he tumbles down (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
the stairs (4). (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
Ans
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
49. Put these statements in the right order to capture
the storyline: Martin hates both the elevator and the stairs for
1. Father and Martin ride together, leaving no different reasons : the elevator is too small and
space for the fat lady. gloomy, while the stairs are dark and echoing.
2. Martin returns home to rest under doctor’s Neither directly causes the other.
orders.
52. Select the choice that best describes the connection
3. Martin briefly believes he is safe from the fat
between the following statements:
lady.
Statement (1) : Martin’s father believed his son
4. Father mentions he must visit Mrs. Ullman
was acting cowardly.
on the ninth floor.
Statement (2) : Martin forced himself to ride the
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4
elevator despite his fear.
(b) 2, 1, 4, 3
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(c) 4, 1, 3, 2
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(d) 1, 3, 2, 4
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
Ans (d) (1) and (2) are independent events
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 Ans
Father escorts Martin in the elevator (1), Martin (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
heals at home (2), assumes he’s safe (3), until Martin dreaded being called a coward, so he
Father recalls his promise to visit Mrs. Ullman on endured the elevator to satisfy his father’s
nine, leaving Martin alone again (4). expectations. Thus, his father’s disapproval led
Martin to continue using the dreaded lift.

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

53. Identify how these two statements interact within dismissive attitude, indicating statement (1)
the story: directly caused statement (2).
Statement (1) : Terrified by the fat lady’s stare,
Martin panicked in the elevator. 56. Pinpoint the correct link between the following
Statement (2) : Martin’s fear prompted him to statements:
try rushing down the stairs, where he fell. Statement (1) : After breaking his leg, Martin was
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false forced to rely on the elevator.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Statement (2) : The fat lady smiled when she saw
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) him unable to escape.
(d) (1) and (2) have no direct link (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
Ans (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (d) (1) and (2) are independent
Martin’s terror of the fat lady drove him to flee Ans
via the dark stairs. That desperate decision (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
resulted in his fall and subsequent broken leg,
clearly connecting cause to outcome. By injuring himself, Martin had no option but to
use the elevator. The fat lady’s smile hinted she
54. Decide the most accurate relationship between knew his helplessness. Thus, his immobility (1)
these statements: likely provoked her ominous reaction (2).
Statement (1) : The fat lady repeatedly boarded
the elevator at different floors, unsettling Martin. 57. Assess the nature of statements (1) and (2):
Statement (2) : Martin believed she was Statement (1) : The elevator frequently shuddered
intentionally targeting him and knowing his and clanged whenever it left a floor.
routines. Statement (2) : Martin believed these noises
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false meant the elevator was exhausted and would fail.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(d) (1) and (2) are unrelated (c) (1) leads to (2)
(d) (1) and (2) are unrelated conclusions
Ans
Ans
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(c) (1) leads to (2)
The woman’s unpredictable appearances
deepened Martin’s paranoia. Because she got on The unsettling sounds and movements convinced
at unexpected floors and stared him down, he Martin the elevator was on the brink of
presumed she followed him deliberately, fueling malfunction. Thus, the elevator’s loud groans (1)
his belief she was after him. triggered his catastrophic thinking (2).

55. Evaluate how statements (1) and (2) connect: 58. Determine how these two statements are
Statement (1) : Martin told his father about the connected:
strange lady, seeking help. Statement (1) : Martin felt ashamed of fearing an
Statement (2) : His father dismissed the tale and old lady.
ordered him to ‘grow up.’ Statement (2) : He ignored his own instincts and
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false kept riding the elevator to prove his bravery.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false (a) (1) is true but (2) is false
(c) (1) is the reason for (2) (b) (2) is true but (1) is false
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(d) (1) and (2) do not influence one another
Ans
Ans
(c) (1) is the reason for (2)
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
When Martin finally mentioned the fat lady,
his father’s impatient response was immediate. Martin’s embarrassment over a seemingly
So, Martin’s admission triggered his father’s irrational fear propelled him to conceal it.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 219

Consequently, he continually took the elevator to (i) Why was he always uncomfortable in
maintain a sense of courage, linking his shame to elevators?
his actions. Why did he fear they might fall?
In what ways did this particular elevator
59. Which answer best explains the link below? make him feel even more uneasy?
Statement (1) : Martin’s father was silent and (ii) What does the extract say about the lighting
unhappy en route to the hospital. and walls in the elevator?
Statement (2) : Martin had just fallen on the How might these conditions affect someone
stairs after fleeing the fat lady. who is already nervous?
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (iii) What is unusual about the elevator’s door?
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false (iv) How does the door’s loud clanging and quick
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) closure contribute to the mood of the ride?
(d) (1) results from (2) How do you think this affects his state of
Ans mind?
(v) Do you believe his fear is understandable or is
(d) (1) results from (2)
he overreacting?
Because Martin ran from the fat lady and broke What details in the extract support your
his leg, his father was furious and disappointed. view?
That injury (2) directly resulted in the father’s
Ans
silent, angry behavior (1).
(i) He was always uncomfortable in elevators
60. Figure out the proper relationship between because he feared they could drop at any
statements (1) and (2): moment, which made him anxious in tight,
Statement (1) : Martin thought the fat lady’s enclosed spaces.
repeated appearances were too coincidental. He worried they might fall due to a general
Statement (2) : Martin concluded she must know mistrust of the elevator’s safety mechanisms
exactly where and when he’d ride. or a personal phobia.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false This particular elevator felt even more
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false unpleasant because of the dim lighting, grimy
(c) (1) causes (2) walls, and the door that slammed shut too
(d) (1) and (2) have no direct correlation quickly-details that made the environment
Ans seem especially threatening.
(ii) The extract mentions that the lighting is poor
(c) (1) causes (2)
and the walls are dirty, suggesting neglect
Her uncanny timing made Martin suspect and gloom.
she deliberately orchestrated every run-in. He For someone who is already nervous,
reasoned her presence was no accident (1), leading these factors can heighten anxiety, as the
him to believe she tracked his habits (2). unclean and poorly lit atmosphere can feel
claustrophobic and unsafe.
(iii) The elevator’s door doesn’t stay open long
enough and closes with a loud, clanging
EXTRACT BASED QUESTION sound, which is unusual and unsettling.
(iv) The loud clanging and abrupt closure create
a tense, jarring mood that reinforces a sense
1. Read the following extract from the text and of confinement.
answer the questions that follow: This likely amplifies his fear, as sudden noises
“Of course he was always uncomfortable in and swift movements confirm his belief that
elevators, afraid that they would fall, but this the elevator might be unsafe.
one was especially unpleasant. Perhaps this was (v) His fear is somewhat understandable, given
because of the poor lighting and the dirty walls. the elevator’s neglected condition and
Perhaps it was because of the door, which never startling noises, which would unsettle many
stayed open long enough, and slammed shut with people.
a loud clanging noise.” However, one could argue that his persistent

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

anxiety about elevators in general might (iii) Martin is likely feeling a mixture of fear,
also make him interpret any minor flaw as a nervousness, and possibly paranoia. The
major threat. The dirty walls, dim light, and echoing footsteps and the dim environment
the slamming door support why his fear is could spark a sense that he is not alone, even
intensified in this particular situation. if logically he knows he might be.
(iv) The phrase “as though there was another
2. Read the following extract from the text and person climbing, getting closer” intensifies
answer the questions that follow: the suspense, suggesting an unseen presence
“The stairs were no better. Martin tried them one that keeps pace with Martin.
day after school. There were no windows, and the It implies that Martin’s imagination or fear is
lights were not working. Martin’s footsteps echoed making him hyper-alert, so every echo sounds
behind him on the cement, as though there was like an actual pursuer, revealing just how
another person climbing, getting closer.” jumpy and apprehensive he is.
(i) Why were the stairs “no better”? (v) His fear could be seen as understandable,
Why did Martin try them one day after given the dark, claustrophobic setting and
school? the unnerving echoes that mimic another
In what ways might the lack of windows person’s steps.
and non-working lights create an unsettling On the other hand, one might argue he is
atmosphere? overreacting if the noises are simply echoes in
(ii) How does the text emphasize Martin’s sense an empty stairwell. Still, the absence of light
of unease? and the eerie echoes support why he feels so
What effect do the echoing footsteps have on uneasy.
him?
(iii) What do you think Martin might be feeling at 3. Read the following extract from the text and
this moment? answer the questions that follow:
(iv) How does the phrase “as though there was “Martin’s father worked at home. He wanted to
another person climbing, getting closer” know why Martin was out of breath. ‘Why didn’t
contribute to the tension? you take the elevator?’ he asked, frowning at
What does it suggest about Martin’s state of Martin. You’re not only skinny and weak and bad
mind? at sports, his face seemed to say, but you are also
(v) Do you believe Martin’s fear is justified, or is a coward.”
he overreacting? (i) Why was Martin out of breath?
Which details in the extract support your Why does his father ask why he didn’t take
view? the elevator?
What does the father’s reaction suggest about
Ans
his attitude toward Martin?
(i) The stairs are described as “no better” because (ii) What does the father’s frown imply?
they are just as unpleasant or alarming as the How do you interpret the phrase “his face
elevator or other routes might have been. seemed to say”?
Martin decides to try them after school, (iii) Why might Martin’s father think of him as
possibly hoping they would offer a safer or “skinny and weak and bad at sports”?
calmer alternative. (iv) Does calling Martin a “coward” reflect a real
However, the lack of windows and broken concern or a harsh judgment?
lights makes the space dark, enclosed, and Explain your view based on the father’s
eerie, heightening any existing fears or behavior in the extract.
discomfort. (v) Do you think the father’s reaction is justified
(ii) The text highlights Martin’s unease by or unfair?
describing the darkness and the absence of What details in the extract support your
proper lighting, as well as the echoing noise perspective?
in an otherwise silent space.
The echoing footsteps amplify his anxiety Ans
by making it seem like someone might be (i) Martin is out of breath because he has taken
following him, turning a simple walk up the the stairs instead of the elevator, possibly
stairs into a tense experience. rushing to get home and feeling anxious.

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His father asks why he didn’t take the elevator (i) Why does she do nothing?
because he finds it odd that Martin would Why does she only watch Martin, breathing
go out of his way to climb the stairs-perhaps loudly?
expecting a reasonable explanation. In what ways might her silence create tension
The father’s reaction suggests a critical or in the elevator?
disapproving attitude; he not only questions (ii) How does Martin react to her presence?
Martin’s choice but also seems to doubt his What does wanting to run past her suggest
bravery and physical abilities. about his feelings or state of mind?
(ii) The father’s frown implies dissatisfaction (iii) Why is there “no room” for Martin to get
or disappointment in Martin, as though he past her?
already suspects Martin of being timid or (iv) How does the woman’s slow movement out of
unable to handle normal situations. the elevator affect Martin’s mood?
The phrase “his face seemed to say” indicates What might this reveal about her attitude or
that, even if he doesn’t voice it openly, the intentions?
father’s expression communicates that he (v) Do you think Martin’s reaction is
thinks Martin is cowardly and physically understandable?
inferior. Which details in the extract support your
(iii) Martin’s father may see him as “skinny and opinion?
weak and bad at sports” because Martin
Ans
doesn’t exhibit the physical traits or athletic
skills his father might value. (i) She does nothing because she seems
This could stem from comparing Martin to uninterested in putting Martin at ease-or
other children who are more robust or sporty, simply chooses not to engage.
or from the father’s personal ideals of strength Her loud breathing and silent observation
and capability. heighten the discomfort, making Martin
(iv) Calling Martin a “coward” could be the acutely aware of her presence.
father’s harsh judgment rather than a real By not speaking or moving, she creates an
concern for Martin’s well-being. uneasy atmosphere in the enclosed space,
The extract shows that the father quickly intensifying the tension of the ride.
jumps to a negative conclusion, implying (ii) Martin feels a strong urge to escape as soon
he’s more focused on criticizing Martin than as possible, indicating fear, anxiety, or an
understanding his reasons for avoiding the overwhelming desire to get away from her.
elevator. Wanting to run past her suggests he is both
(v) Many might view the father’s reaction as intimidated and desperate for a quick exit-
unfair because it doesn’t allow Martin to he views her presence as an obstacle to his
explain why he was out of breath or why he comfort.
took the stairs-it simply labels him as weak or (iii) There is “no room” for Martin to pass
scared. because the elevator is likely small and
On the other hand, some could argue the cramped, leaving no space to slip by without
father is genuinely worried about Martin’s confronting or pushing past her.
physical fitness and confidence. Yet, the This physical constraint forces him to remain
critical tone and disapproval in the text in her proximity until she moves.
suggest that the father’s approach is more (iv) Her slow exit prolongs Martin’s discomfort,
hurtful than helpful, supporting the idea that as he must wait behind her and endure the
his reaction is unjustified. tension a little longer.
This could imply that she is either unaware of
4. Read the following extract from the text and his unease or is deliberately taking her time-
answer the questions that follow: perhaps indifferent to or subtly controlling
“She did nothing. She only watched him, breathing the situation.
loudly, until the elevator reached the first floor at (v) Martin’s reaction is quite understandable,
last. Martin wanted to run past her to get out, given the tense environment : a confined
but there was no room. He could only wait as she space, another person silently watching, and
turned and moved slowly out into the lobby.” no easy way out.

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

27. Martin found the old elevator unpleasant because 31. Martin always took the elevator after his father
______. ______.
(a) it was brand new (a) accused him of cowardice
(b) it had gold walls (b) bought him a bicycle
(c) it had poor lighting (c) praised his bravery
(d) it had no doors (d) rewarded him daily
Ans Ans
(c) it had poor lighting (a) accused him of cowardice
The text notes dim, insufficient lighting and Motivated by shame and a desire to prove himself,
dirty walls. These features contribute to Martin’s Martin forces himself to use the elevator, hoping
unease, making the elevator feel claustrophobic to meet his father’s expectations and avoid further
and adding to his already heightened anxieties. criticism about his fears.

28. Martin feared the elevator might ______ 32. Martin disliked other passengers in the elevator
because he was always uneasy. because ______.
(a) smell nice (a) they always complimented him
(b) play music (b) they gave him candy
(c) fall suddenly (c) they often sang songs
(d) make him laugh (d) they stood too close
Ans Ans
(c) fall suddenly (d) they stood too close
Martin’s long-standing elevator phobia stems from The limited space heightens Martin’s discomfort,
a fear that it could drop unexpectedly. This dread especially when strangers stand uncomfortably
sets the tone for his discomfort and constant sense near. He finds the forced intimacy and avoidance
of potential danger. of eye contact particularly unnerving.

29. The stairs frightened Martin because ______. 33. The fat lady unsettled Martin because ______.
(a) they were dark inside (a) she wept loudly
(b) they smelled fresh (b) she turned away quickly
(c) people sang there (c) she gave him gifts
(d) they had wide views (d) she stared at him
Ans Ans
(a) they were dark inside (d) she stared at him
The dark, windowless stairwell with faulty lights The woman’s unwavering, silent gaze is
makes Martin feel as though someone is following threatening and intrusive. For Martin, her direct
him. This oppressive atmosphere challenges him scrutiny magnifies his anxiety, fueling a sense that
almost as much as the elevator. she’s deliberately targeting him.

30. Martin’s father frowned when Martin avoided the 34. The fat lady’s coat brushed Martin as ______.
elevator because ______. (a) he stood in a corner
(a) he was quite proud (b) she left the building
(b) he lost the keys (c) he watched the news
(c) he liked the stairs (d) she offered him water
(d) he called him a coward
Ans
Ans
(a) he stood in a corner
(d) he called him a coward
Cramped by her large figure and ballooning coat,
Martin’s father misinterprets his son’s fear as Martin is forced to press himself into the corner.
simple cowardice, judging him harshly. This Physical contact with her coat makes him feel
dismissal intensifies Martin’s struggle to cope trapped and helpless.
with his feelings of weakness and embarrassment.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 223

unusual to feel frightened. (iv) How do the lady’s actions reflect her attitude
Feeling ashamed makes him even more uneasy, toward Martin?
as he recognizes that his fear might be out of What might her silent watchfulness imply?
proportion but can’t quite shake it off. (v) Do you think Martin’s reactions are justified,
(ii) When he arrives, Martin presses the elevator or is he overreacting?
button and steps inside, even though he’s Which details in the extract support your
anxious about another possible meeting. viewpoint?
He hopes the elevator won’t stop on any
Ans
floor, wanting to avoid a repeat of the tense
situation he experienced before. (i) He is on high alert, so he notices every detail
(iii) The elevator stopping on the third floor of her actions, including how she presses the
intensifies his anxiety because it suggests elevator buttons.
someone might get on-or be waiting-just as Pressing eighteen instead of fourteen is
he fears. significant because eighteen is the very top
This possibility brings back memories of his floor, meaning the ride will last longer and
earlier fright, making him worry that he could feel more tense for Martin.
face a similar or worse scenario. This unexpected choice of the highest floor
(iv) The abrupt halt underscores his ongoing fears, could make him suspect that the situation
as it forces him into a moment of suspense-he might become even more uncomfortable or
doesn’t know who or what awaits outside. that the woman has some unknown intention.
He might imagine that the old lady (or (ii) The elevator’s trembling feeds into Martin’s
someone equally unsettling) will appear existing anxiety; any physical sign that
again, fueling his apprehension and leaving something might be amiss confirms his fears
him feeling trapped. about being trapped or unsafe.
(v) His worry could be considered understandable, The woman’s silent focus on him intensifies
given that his last elevator ride deeply this worry, as her watchful gaze suggests she’s
unsettled him and he hasn’t resolved that paying attention to his reactions without
fear. explaining her own motives.
On the other hand, it might be seen as slightly (iii) Heading to the top floor forces Martin into a
exaggerated since there is no clear evidence prolonged ride in close quarters with someone
he’s in real danger. Still, the text shows he’s who already unsettles him.
genuinely shaken by his previous experience, He may also feel that fewer people will be
which supports why he feels so uneasy now. around at the uppermost level, heightening
his sense of isolation.
(iv) Her calm, deliberate actions-coupled with
7. Read the following extract from the text and that steady gaze-suggest a kind of quiet
answer the questions that follow: control.
“He watched her pudgy hand move towards the Her silence can imply indifference to Martin’s
buttons. She pressed, not fourteen, but eighteen, discomfort or, alternatively, a measured
the top floor. The elevator trembled and began to intention to unsettle him further.
go up. The fat lady watched him.” (v) Martin’s concern seems reasonable in light
(i) Why is Martin closely observing her pudgy of the unnerving environment : a trembling
hand? elevator, a stranger closely observing him,
Why is pressing eighteen instead of fourteen and an unexpectedly long ride.
significant? Still, one might argue he’s overreacting if the
How might this choice make Martin feel woman’s behavior is simply ordinary elevator
unsure about her intentions? etiquette. The details about the highest floor,
(ii) How does the elevator’s trembling add to the trembling, and her watchfulness, however,
Martin’s apprehension? do support why he would feel increasingly
In what way does the lady’s silent attention uneasy.
heighten his unease?
(iii) Why might the choice of the top floor make
Martin feel uneasy?

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

14. Read the following extract from the text and space intensifies the feeling that he has no
answer the questions that follow: control over the situation.
“Martin hobbled to the buttons and pressed nine, As the elevator begins to move, he might be
but it didn’t do any good. The elevator stopped panicking about what she intends to do or
at ten, where the fat lady was waiting for him. say, fearing he’ll have no choice but to face
She moved in quickly, and he was too slow to get her in this enclosed setting.
past her in time to get out. The door closed and (v) Many would say Martin’s fear is
the elevator began to move.” understandable, given the repeated unsettling
(i) Why is Martin hobbling? encounters and how she appears to be
Why is pressing nine useless? deliberately cornering him.
How does the elevator’s stopping at floor ten Details such as his inability to exit, her quick
create tension? entry at floor ten, and the door shutting
(ii) Why was the fat lady waiting for him at floor before he can leave all reinforce the sense that
ten? he’s being trapped, supporting the idea that
How does her quick movement affect Martin’s his fear is justified rather than irrational.
attempt to exit?
(iii) What does Martin’s inability to get past her
suggest about his vulnerability? www.nodia.i
(iv) How does the door closing intensify the sense
of confinement?
What might be going through Martin’s mind
as the elevator begins to move?
(v) Do you believe Martin’s fear is justified or
irrational?
Which details in the extract best support
your perspective?
Ans
(i) Martin is hobbling because he has a broken
leg and needs to move carefully and slowly.
Pressing nine is useless because the elevator
still stops at ten, indicating that his choice
of floor does not override the fat lady’s call
button.
This unexpected stop creates tension by
trapping Martin in a situation he was trying
to avoid, heightening his anxiety when he sees
her waiting.
(ii) It seems the fat lady anticipated Martin’s ride
and got on at the tenth floor to intercept him,
suggesting a deliberate choice to meet him
there.
Her quick movement into the elevator prevents
Martin from slipping out, effectively blocking
his escape and leaving him no option but to
remain inside.
(iii) Martin’s inability to get past her shows how
physically vulnerable he is, especially since
he’s on crutches. He can’t move fast, and her
sudden entry leaves him stuck.
(iv) The door closing seals Martin inside the
elevator with her, removing any immediate
chance to leave or call for help. This confined

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Ans (i) Why does Martin feel the need to tell someone
(i) She barely moves because she either doesn’t about the woman?
care about his need to exit or perhaps wants Why does he mention that she was in the
to maintain a certain dominance in the elevator with him twice?
confined space. How does her constant staring affect him?
Martin has to squeeze past because there’s (ii) What does Martin mean when he says he was
little room and she isn’t making an effort to “probably making a mistake”?
step aside, forcing him into uncomfortable What might he be afraid of?
physical contact. (iii) How might sharing his experience help or
This moment underscores the uneasy power harm Martin’s state of mind?
dynamic at play and heightens Martin’s (iv) In what ways does the woman’s behavior in
anxiety, as he feels trapped and rushed in an the elevator continue to unsettle Martin?
already stressful situation. What do you think drives his growing anxiety?
(ii) Referring to her coat as “horrible” and (v) Do you believe Martin is justified in talking
“scratchy” emphasizes the unpleasant to someone about his experiences, or is he
sensation of contact and amplifies Martin’s overreacting?
dislike for the situation. Which details in the extract support your
He worries about the door closing quickly perspective?
because elevator doors can shut abruptly, and Ans
he doesn’t want to be stuck inside with her-or
miss his floor altogether. (i) Martin feels compelled to share his experience
(iii) His reaction shows he feels a mix of fear, because he’s anxious and needs reassurance
frustration, and urgency. Martin interprets or advice.
even small interactions (like squeezing by) as He points out that she rode with him twice
potential threats, indicating that his anxiety in one day, emphasizing that these encounters
about this woman has grown into a near- weren’t just a fluke-they’re happening
constant state of tension. repeatedly and intensifying his unease.
(iv) Being forced into physical contact intensifies Her unbroken stare magnifies his discomfort,
Martin’s vulnerability, as he can’t avoid her making him feel watched and unable to relax.
presence or the unpleasant texture of her coat. (ii) By saying he was “probably making a
This forced closeness suggests she- mistake,” Martin suggests he worries about
intentionally or not-exerts control over the being dismissed, ridiculed, or not believed.
space, leaving Martin with no comfortable He might also be afraid that talking about
option but to endure it. his fears could make the situation seem more
(v) Many would argue his fear is understandable, real or serious than he wants to admit, but he
given the repeated unsettling encounters can’t keep it to himself any longer.
and her seeming indifference to his personal (iii) Opening up could help Martin feel less
space. He’s grown hyper-aware of every move isolated, as voicing his concerns might bring
she makes. him support or understanding.
Others might see it as an overreaction if On the other hand, if the person he confides
she’s simply unaware or unbothered. Yet the in downplays his worry, he might feel even
detail of him rushing to avoid the closing more insecure or doubt his own judgment,
door, coupled with his discomfort at touching which could worsen his anxiety.
her coat, supports why he feels so tense and (iv) The woman’s unwavering stare remains the
threatened. focal point of Martin’s alarm, as it suggests
an unusual or intense interest in him.
10. Read the following extract from the text and Her silent, persistent gaze feeds his
answer the questions that follow: imagination, making him question her motives
“Martin knew he was probably making a mistake, and fueling a sense that something ominous
but he had to tell somebody about the woman, could happen.
‘She was in the elevator with me twice today. She (v) His decision to talk about it is understandable;
just kept staring at me. She never stopped looking persistent, unsettling behavior from a stranger
at me for a minute.’” would rattle many people.

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

8. Read the following extract from the text and in a slow-moving elevator with someone who
answer the questions that follow: makes him uneasy.
“This morning she got on at the fourteenth floor, Walking also offers an immediate chance to
so why did she get on at the third floor today escape the tense atmosphere.
and go up to eighteen? The elevator seemed to be (iv) Her inconsistent behavior-switching floors
moving more slowly than usual. Martin wanted unexpectedly-could suggest that she’s
to press seven, so that he could get out and walk deliberately unsettling Martin, or she might
up the stairs, but he couldn’t reach the buttons have her own reasons for changing floors that
without touching her, and he didn’t want to do he doesn’t understand.
that.” Martin interprets it as suspicious or
(i) Why is Martin perplexed by the woman’s threatening, given his heightened anxiety and
behavior? the fact that nothing about her actions seems
Why does the difference in floors matter to predictable.
him? (v) His reluctance to touch her can be seen as
How might the elevator moving more slowly understandable, considering he already
add to his anxiety? feels anxious and doesn’t want any further
(ii) Why does Martin want to press seven and interaction.
walk the rest of the way? On the other hand, some might view it as
What prevents him from doing so? an overreaction if it’s merely a quick press
(iii) Why might Martin prefer taking the stairs of the elevator button. The extract shows
instead of remaining on the elevator? how the slow ride, her silent presence, and
(iv) What could the woman’s change in floors the unexpected floor choices all contribute
(from fourteen in the morning to three now, to Martin’s growing tension, which supports
then up to eighteen) suggest about her why he avoids any contact.
intentions?
How does Martin interpret this sudden shift? 9. Read the following extract from the text and
(v) Do you think Martin’s reluctance to touch answer the questions that follow:
her is sensible or an overreaction? “When the elevator stopped on his floor, she
Which details in the extract support your hardly moved out of his way. He had to squeeze
viewpoint? past her, rubbing against her horrible scratchy
coat. He was afraid the door would close before
Ans he could get out.”
(i) Martin is puzzled because earlier that (i) Why does she “hardly move” out of Martin’s
morning, she got on at the fourteenth floor, way?
but now she enters at the third floor and Why does he have to squeeze past her?
heads all the way to eighteen. In what ways does this moment reflect
He notices this difference in floors and Martin’s ongoing tension?
wonders why her routine seems to have (ii) How does the description of her “horrible
changed, making him suspect something scratchy coat” contribute to Martin’s
strange is happening. discomfort?
The elevator moving slowly intensifies his Why might he be worried about the door
unease, giving him more time to think about closing too soon?
her odd behavior and worry about what (iii) What does Martin’s reaction reveal about his
might happen next. feelings toward this woman?
(ii) He wants to press seven so he can exit the (iv) How might being forced to brush against her
elevator and use the stairs, likely because he coat increase Martin’s sense of vulnerability?
finds the situation uncomfortable and wants What does this physical closeness suggest
a quick escape. about the control she exerts, intentionally or
He can’t reach the buttons without brushing not?
against her, which he’s unwilling to do, so he (v) Do you think Martin’s fear is justified, or is
remains trapped in the elevator. he overreacting to a simple inconvenience?
(iii) Martin may feel safer and more in control Which details in the extract support your
taking the stairs, rather than being confined perspective?

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 227

(ii) Martin wonders if her smile hinted she somehow (iv) How might taking a break from using the
knew he would soon be unable to use the stairs, elevator impact Martin’s worries?
implying her satisfaction or anticipation of this What does his relief at staying home suggest
forced dependence on the elevator. about his state of mind?
Her earlier actions and silent observations (v) Do you think Martin’s father’s presence
now appear more foreboding, as if she had genuinely solves his problem or merely
been waiting for Martin to lose his freedom postpones it?
to choose an alternative route. Which details in the extract support your
(iii) Because his leg is injured, Martin has no viewpoint?
choice but to take the elevator, placing him
Ans
in exactly the situation he fears most—being
trapped with someone who unsettles him. (i) Martin’s father is with him in the elevator
This dependency greatly increases his sense because they are returning from the hospital,
of being at her mercy, intensifying his anxiety likely due to Martin’s leg injury.
about encountering her again. This reassures Martin because he isn’t alone
(iv) If the fat lady did, in fact, know about or and believes his father can protect him or at
foresee Martin’s predicament, it suggests she least bear witness if the fat lady appears.
may have orchestrated events or merely taken With the elevator already crowded, there’s
pleasure in his misfortune. no space for her to enter, which further
Martin’s suspicion raises questions about eases Martin’s anxiety-he won’t have to face
whether she’s merely an eccentric resident another unsettling encounter right now.
with odd behavior or if there’s a more (ii) Martin hopes that if the fat lady does try to
deliberate intention behind her actions. get in, his father will see her strange behavior
(v) His suspicion could be seen as understandable, firsthand and finally understand the fear
given how consistently she appears and how Martin has been experiencing.
unsettling her behavior has been. The sudden This highlights Martin’s need for someone else-
change in his circumstances (breaking his leg) especially an authority figure-to acknowledge
aligns eerily with her smile. and validate his worries, rather than dismiss
On the other hand, it might be far-fetched them.
if there is no direct evidence she caused or (iii) Martin can stay in the apartment for a few
predicted his injury. Still, the coincidence and days to rest and recover, given his broken leg
her knowing smile, as described, lend some and reduced mobility.
weight to his concerns. Not having to travel or use the elevator often
gives him a temporary escape from the source
13. Read the following extract from the text and of his fear.
answer the questions that follow: (iv) Avoiding the elevator for a while might
“At least his father was with him in the elevator temporarily alleviate Martin’s tension.
on the way back from the hospital. There was He won’t have to confront the possibility
no room for the fat lady to get in, and if she of meeting the fat lady when he’s feeling
did, his father would see her and maybe he would physically and emotionally vulnerable.
understand. When he got home, he could stay in His relief at staying home indicates just
the apartment for a few days.” how strong his anxiety has become-he sees
(i) Why is Martin’s father with him in the isolation as preferable to facing the unknown
elevator? in the elevator.
Why does Martin find this reassuring? (v) His father’s presence offers immediate comfort
How does the lack of space in the elevator but doesn’t necessarily resolve the underlying
affect Martin’s feelings about the fat lady? issue. Once Martin must ride the elevator
(ii) Why does Martin hope his father “would see alone again, the fear could easily resurface.
her and maybe he would understand”? From the extract, we see Martin’s relief is
What does this reveal about Martin’s need short-term : he’s counting on the elevator
for validation? being too full or on staying home to avoid
(iii) Why can Martin stay in the apartment for a contact, which postpones, rather than
few days? eliminates, the confrontation he dreads.

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Ch 2 : The Elevator

One might argue, however, that without more enclosed, confined space-there’s nowhere else
evidence of actual threat, Martin could be to go if he wants to leave the building quickly.
overreacting. Still, the fact she was with him This limited space and sudden shut of the
twice and never stopped staring provides a door amplify the tension, forcing him to
strong reason for his discomfort and justifies confront her rather than simply walk away.
seeking another person’s perspective. (v) His fear seems understandable, given that
he’s repeatedly been caught off guard by her
11. Read the following extract from the text and silent, watchful presence. The fact that she
answer the questions that follow: appears to anticipate his arrival and actively
“In the morning, when the elevator door opened, engages him with a change of expression
the fat lady was waiting for him. Martin stood would unsettle many people.
there, unable to move, then backed away. As she However, some might argue he’s overreacting
saw him, her expression changed. She smiled as if her behavior is merely odd but not directly
the door slammed.” threatening. Still, details like her sudden
(i) Why does Martin stand there unable to appearance, the slammed door, and the
move? unnerving smile support why Martin feels so
Why does he back away? anxious.
How might her presence intensify his fear?
(ii) What does her changed expression suggest? 12. Read the following extract from the text and
How does her smile add to Martin’s answer the questions that follow:
discomfort? “Martin had broken his leg and needed to walk
(iii) What is the significance of the door slamming? on crutches. He could not use the stairs now. Was
(iv) How does the setting (the elevator and its that why the fat lady had smiled? Did she know
door) influence Martin’s reaction? what would happen?”
In what way does it heighten the tension? (i) Why has Martin broken his leg?
(v) Is Martin’s fear justified, or is he overreacting? How do the crutches limit his mobility?
Which details in the extract support your Why can he no longer use the stairs?
perspective? (ii) What connection does Martin make between
his injury and the fat lady’s smile?
Ans
Why might her earlier behavior seem more
(i) Martin stands still because he is taken by ominous now?
surprise and feels a surge of fear at seeing her (iii) How does Martin’s reliance on the elevator
again, right in front of him. heighten his vulnerability?
He backs away because his immediate (iv) In what way could the fat lady’s apparent
reaction is to create distance from someone knowledge of Martin’s situation suggest
who has caused him so much anxiety in forethought or a plan?
earlier encounters. What questions does this raise about her
Her sudden appearance at the elevator intentions?
door, combined with the memory of (v) Do you think Martin’s suspicion that she
previous unsettling moments, intensifies his anticipated his injury is reasonable or far-
apprehension and makes him feel cornered. fetched?
(ii) Her expression changes as soon as she notices Which details in the extract support your
Martin, suggesting a personal interest or even viewpoint?
satisfaction in seeing him again.
The smile she gives him is unsettling because Ans
it feels deliberate, almost as though she is (i) He has broken his leg, though the exact cause
pleased by his fear, which only heightens his isn’t described here, leaving him dependent
sense of unease. on crutches for support and movement.
(iii) The door slamming can symbolize Martin’s Relying on crutches means he can’t manage
lack of control over the situation. It separates stairs easily-if at all-since he needs stable
him from any chance of a quick escape, footing and has reduced mobility.
underlining the trapped feeling he experiences Being on crutches forces him to use the
whenever he encounters her. elevator, removing his previous option of
(iv) Being at the elevator door puts Martin in an taking the stairs to avoid the fat lady.

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CHAPTER
3
THE GIRL WHO CAN

INTRODUCTIO struggles to speak her mind, yet she secretly

excels at running and proves her worth.
2. Nana (Grandmother) : She is firm, traditional,
“The Girl Who Can” by Ama Ata Aidoo shows
and believes women need strong, fleshy legs for
how a traditional Ghanaian society believes
childbearing. Despite her stern criticism of Adjoa’s
a woman’s main purpose is to bear children.
legs, she eventually realizes their unexpected
The story challenges this narrow view through
potential.
seven-year-old Adjoa, whose long, thin legs seem
3. Maami (Kaya, Mother) : She is gentle and quiet,
useless to her grandmother, Nana, because they
often overshadowed by Nana’s firm presence.
supposedly cannot support the wide hips required
Though she rarely protests, she silently supports
for childbearing. However, when Adjoa’s “thin
Adjoa and remains caring throughout her
legs” help her win a running race, she proves
daughter’s challenges.
her grandmother wrong. This achievement opens
Nana’s mind to new possibilities. Meanwhile,
Adjoa’s mother, Kaya (Maami), stands between
tradition and modernity, revealing the struggles
women face in balancing cultural expectations
SUMMAR
with personal strengths.
1. Hasodzi : The Setting : In central Ghana’s lush
Hasodzi village, Adjoa lives with her mother
Maami (Kaya) and grandmother Nana. Although
ABOUT THE AUTHO much of Africa experiences drought, Hasodzi
remains fertile, shaping Adjoa’s childhood. She
Ama Ata Aidoo was born in 1940 in central grows curious about life’s possibilities, yet her
Ghana. Her father built her village’s first school. family’s traditional views loom over her each day.
Raised in a matrilineal tradition, she saw women’s 2. Adjoa’s Problem : Speaking Her Mind : Adjoa
leadership early on, and visits by traveling artists dreads sharing her opinions because elders either
shaped her worldview. She published her first forbid her or ridicule her until they weep. This
short story at nineteen and studied literature at repeated scorn leaves her unsure of when to
the University of Ghana, later becoming a lecturer speak. She deeply wants to express herself, but
there. Briefly serving as Minister of Education fear of mockery compels her to remain silent each
in 1982, she hoped to offer free schooling but time, reluctantly.
resigned when that goal proved impossible. She 3. Nana’s Complaint About “Spindly Legs” : Nana
then turned to full-time writing, also teaching constantly criticizes Adjoa’s thin legs, claiming
abroad. Her notable works include The Dilemma they cannot support the “solid hips” deemed
of a Ghost and Changes : A Love Story. She essential for childbearing. She faults Maami for
founded The Mbaasem Foundation to support marrying a man who produced a girl with such
African women writers. limbs. Repeated remarks make Adjoa hyperaware
of her legs and cause ongoing household tension.
4. Curiosity About “Right Legs” : Adjoa becomes
eager to see what “proper” legs look like, planning
MAIN CHARACTER to observe older women at the river. However, she
may only bathe in shallow water with girls her age,
1. Adjoa : A bright, seven-year-old girl living in none of whom have borne children. She remains
Hasodzi, Ghana. She has thin, long legs and completely baffled by Nana’s rigid standards.

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

5. Adjoa’s Hidden Talent : Despite walking five 9. Grown-up : An adult or mature person.
kilometers to school, Adjoa never complains. She 10. Attention : Focused observation or listening.
discreetly excels at running, winning numerous 11. Stare : A fixed gaze.
races without telling her family. Though quiet 12. Repeat : To say or do again.
about these victories, she displays extraordinary 13. Cloth : Material made from fabric.
ability, hinting at wider potential that neither she 14. Performance : The act of doing something.
nor her relatives fully comprehend or imagine. 15. Confusing : Difficult to understand.
6. Selection for the District Sports : Eventually, 16. Expression : The way thoughts or feelings are
Adjoa’s school selects her to compete at the conveyed.
District sports event, astonishing both Nana and 17. Legs : The limbs used for walking or running.
Maami. Nana, unexpectedly supportive, washes 18. Thin : Having little width or thickness.
and irons Adjoa’s uniform, then follows them 19. Complain : To express dissatisfaction.
while feigning other errands. This subtle shift 20. Courage : The ability to face difficulty or danger.
suggests she is revising her assumptions about 21. Spirit : The non-physical part of a person.
thin legs. 22. Approve : To agree or accept as satisfactory.
7. Adjoa’s Triumph : Adjoa wins the junior athlete’s 23. Discuss : To talk about a topic.
cup, filling her family and school with pride. Nana 24. Marry : To enter into a legal union with a partner.
carries the trophy home, cradling it like a precious 25. Sports : Physical activities or games for exercise
child before returning it to the headmaster. This or competition.
gesture indicates that she has begun appreciating 26. Runner : A person who participates in running
Adjoa’s once-criticized legs and exceptional events.
abilities. 27. Uniform : A specific outfit worn by members of
8. Nana’s Change of Heart : Moved to tears, Nana a group.
admits even slender legs can be useful. Though 28. Charcoal : A black residue used as fuel or for
they may not match her childbearing ideal, they ironing.
excel at running and hint at broader prospects. 29. Pressing iron : A tool used to smooth or press
Her realization dismantles the belief that a clothes.
woman’s worth depends on her body’s suitability 30. Parade : A public display of people or items
for motherhood. moving in an organized manner.
9. Resolution and Silence of Maami : Adjoa feels 31. Cup : A trophy awarded for achievement.
validated, having demonstrated her point through 32. Athlete : A person skilled in sports or physical
action rather than argument. Maami remains activities.
quiet, withholding judgment or excitement, but 33. Precious : Of great value or importance.
the family’s outlook shifts. They recognize that a 34. Compound : A walled or fenced area, often
woman’s legs need not be “fleshy” to serve many containing multiple buildings.
truly important purposes in everyday life beyond 35. Headmaster : The principal of a school.
bearing children, after all. 36. Starched : Treated with a substance to make
fabric stiff.
37. Knee : The joint between the thigh and lower leg.
WORD MEANING 38. Mutter : To speak in a low or unclear manner.
39. Speechless : Unable to speak, often due to emotion.
1. Hasodzi : A village in Ghana mentioned in the 40. Useful : Capable of serving a purpose.
story.
2. Drought : A prolonged period of little or no rain.
3. Fertile : Capable of producing abundant crops. CRITICAL COMMENT
4. District : An administrative division of a country
or region. 1. Traditional vs. Modern Beliefs : It challenges old
5. Nana : A term for grandmother. notions that a woman’s legs must be fleshy for
6. Maami : A term for mother. childbearing, proving modern perspectives offer
7. Problem : A matter or situation that needs to be multiple possibilities.
dealt with. 2. Silence and Self-Expression : Adjoa stays silent
8. Language : A system of words or signs for to avoid ridicule, but triumph in running shows
communication. actions can speak louder than words.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 231

3. Breaking Physical Stereotypes : Nana’s belief Nana scolds Adjoa, implying she’s unaware of
that only fleshy legs are useful shatters when life’s hardships. By emphasizing problems, Nana
Adjoa’s thin legs prove essential for success. suggests Adjoa’s carefree attitude ignores bigger
5. Generational Tensions : Nana’s old views clash struggles beyond leftover food.
with Adjoa’s new outlook, illustrating how
youth can challenge and transform entrenched 4. How old is Adjoa, according to the text?
traditions. (a) Five
6. Affirmation of Female Identity : The story (b) Seven
promotes women’s abilities beyond childbearing, (c) Nine
emphasizing confidence, action, and hidden (d) Ten
talents. Ans
(b) Seven
The text directly states Adjoa’s age as seven.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION This detail is crucialshe’s old enough to have
complex thoughts but young enough to struggle
articulating them to grown-ups.
1. Which region is Hasodzi located in?
5. Adjoa’s main frustration is that she ______.
(a) Western Region of Ghana
(a) fears the dark
(b) Central Region of Ghana
(b) cannot walk properly
(c) Northern Region of Ghana
(c) lacks the language to express her ideas
(d) Eastern Region of Ghana
(d) hates her school
Ans
Ans
(b) Central Region of Ghana
(c) lacks the language to express her ideas
The text explicitly states that Hasodzi is a very
Adjoa feels she can form thoughts but doesn’t
large village in the Central Region of Ghana. This
have the “proper language” to share them. This
location is important to illustrate its fertile land
communication gap causes tension, as adults
and cultural context.
either dismiss or mock her words.
2. According to the text, what makes Hasodzi
6. What is Nana’s typical reaction when Adjoa
especially fertile?
shares a serious thought?
(a) Frequent rainfall
(a) She praises Adjoa
(b) Rich soil
(b) She laughs until tears come
(c) Continuous irrigation
(c) She quietly agrees
(d) Use of artificial fertilizers
(d) She scolds Adjoa kindly
Ans
Ans
(b) Rich soil
(b) She laughs until tears come
The passage highlights Hasodzi’s “good soil” in
Nana often bursts into prolonged laughter at
a low-lying area, making it notably fertile. This
Adjoa’s remarks. This reaction embarrasses Adjoa
contrasts with Africa’s drought conditions, which
and discourages her from speaking up, unsure
can affect surrounding regions more severely.
whether her thoughts will be ridiculed again.
3. What does Nana usually say when Adjoa does not
7. Why does Adjoa feel confused about repeating
finish eating her food?
things she says?
(a) “You will be punished!”
(a) She forgets her words quickly
(b) “Don’t waste your food!”
(b) Grown-ups never talk to her
(c) “You must learn manners!”
(c) Adults sometimes forbid it or find it amusing
(d) “You don’t know what life is about.”
(d) She doesn’t trust her friends
Ans
Ans
(d) “You don’t know what life is about.”
(c) Adults sometimes forbid it or find it amusing

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

challenged and likely changed some attitudes

that once belittled them.
However, there might still be a possibility
that certain relatives (especially Nana) hold
onto smaller doubts or revert to old habits
over time. From the extract, we only see the
immediate reaction-“speechless” or reassured-
but not long-term acceptance. Nonetheless,
the passage clearly shows a positive and
hopeful turning point in how the family
perceives the speaker.

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(c) Twelve kilometers (c) They dismiss the competition

(d) Twenty kilometers (d) They complain about the cost
Ans Ans
(b) Five kilometers (b) They don’t believe it
Though older students complain about the five- Skeptical that Adjoa’s “inadequate” legs could
kilometer walk to school, Adjoa doesn’t mind. She excel, Nana and Maami doubt her selection. Only
just notes that this distance is seen as long by after Nana investigates do they accept that Adjoa
some but acceptable by her. truly is a chosen runner.

16. Which view does Nana hold about school? 20. What does Nana do upon realizing Adjoa’s
(a) It is absolutely essential selection is genuine?
(b) It is too expensive (a) Hides the truth
(c) It is a waste of time (b) Criticizes the teachers
(d) It is only for wealthy families (c) Washes and irons Adjoa’s uniform
(d) Tells Adjoa not to compete
Ans
(c) It is a waste of time Ans

Nana believes schooling won’t benefit Adjoa, (c) Washes and irons Adjoa’s uniform
especially given her opinion on a girl’s role Nana transforms her skepticism into tangible
focusing on home and childbearing. She openly support by meticulously cleaning and pressing
expresses that it’s not worth the effort. Adjoa’s school outfit, symbolizing a quiet shift
from doubt to cautious pride in her granddaughter.
17. How does Maami feel about not attending school
herself? 21. How does Nana show up at the district sports
(a) She feels proud each afternoon?
(b) She feels locked in darkness (a) She stays home
(c) She blames Nana for everything (b) Wearing stiffly starched cloth, walking behind
(d) She is unaffected (c) Shouting loudly to cheer Adjoa
(d) Hiding under a tree
Ans
(b) She feels locked in darkness Ans

Maami regrets her illiteracy, likening it to living (b) Wearing stiffly starched cloth, walking behind
“in darkness.” Thus, she wants Adjoa to learn Although Nana accompanies the schoolchildren,
to read, write, and do calculations for a brighter she lags behind in her crisp attire. This distance
future. suggests she’s proud yet cautious, observing
Adjoa’s races without openly joining the group.
18. What surprising role is Adjoa chosen for at school?
(a) Class monitor 22. Which prestigious result does Adjoa achieve?
(b) Library assistant (a) She finishes second
(c) Runner for the district games (b) She gets disqualified
(d) Choir lead (c) She injures herself
(d) She wins every race
Ans
(c) Runner for the district games Ans

Unexpectedly, teachers select Adjoa to represent (d) She wins every race
the junior section in district sports. This Adjoa secures victory in all her events, a shock
opportunity shows her “thin, long legs” are to those who doubted her legs. This triumph
powerful assets, challenging Nana’s assumptions. undermines Nana’s longstanding view that thin
legs can’t be physically strong.
19. How do Nana and Maami initially react to news
of Adjoa running?
(a) They both cheer
(b) They don’t believe it

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

23. How does Nana carry the trophy when returning The passage highlights that Hasodzi is notably
home? fertile, implying it has rich soil suitable for
(a) In a large basket agriculture-a stark contrast to the drought that
(b) On her back like a baby sometimes plagues Africa.
(c) Tucked under her arm
(d) Inside a traveling bag 27. “They also say that I am ______ years old.”
(a) eight
Ans (b) five
(b) On her back like a baby (c) seven
(d) nearly nine
Nana treats the cup as a prized possession,
carrying it wrapped at her back. This unusual Ans
gesture symbolizes her pride and newfound (c) seven
acceptance of Adjoa’s capabilities.
Adjoa repeatedly states she is seven. This age
24. What does Nana finally admit about thin legs? represents her transition from simple childhood to
(a) They are absolutely useless more complex self-awareness, fueling frustration
(b) They should be hidden when adults overlook her emerging viewpoints.
(c) They need special treatment
(d) They can be useful 28. “My problem is that I do not have the proper
______ to speak them out with.”
Ans (a) gesture
(d) They can be useful (b) language
(c) courage
Witnessing Adjoa’s accomplishments changes
(d) single word
Nana’s perspective. She mutters that “thin legs can
also be useful,” conceding that her granddaughter’s Ans
physique has proven advantageous for running (b) language
and achievement.
Adjoa’s dilemma centers on lacking the precise
25. How does Adjoa feel at the end about “showing” words to express her thoughts. This communication
rather than “telling”? gap leaves her torn between staying silent or
(a) She realizes action can prove her point risking mockery by speaking up.
(b) She decides never to speak again
(c) She feels guilty for winning 29. “She would laugh and laugh, until ______ ran
(d) She believes talking solves all problems down her cheeks.”
(a) sweat
Ans (b) freckles
(a) She realizes action can prove her point (c) tears
(d) droplets of joy
Adjoa’s success confirms that demonstrating
ability can convince others more than words. Ans
She sees how her running settled the leg debate, (c) tears
accomplishing what repeated arguments could
not. Nana’s laughter escalates to the point of crying,
illustrating how adults trivialize Adjoa’s insights.
26. “They say that when all of Africa is not choking This extreme reaction discourages the child from
under a drought, Hasodzi lies in a ______ low freely sharing her ideas.
land.”
(a) rocky 30. “I find something quite confusing in all this. No
(b) fertile one ever explains why sometimes I shouldn’t
(c) desert-like ______ certain things I say.”
(d) sandy (a) whisper
(b) correct
Ans (c) repeat
(b) fertile (d) scribble out

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Ans 34. “How could Nana be a good grown-up when she

(c) repeat carried on so about my ______?”
(a) clothes
Adjoa is puzzled by inconsistent adult responses
(b) legs
: some statements earn severe warnings, others
(c) chores
provoke hilarious retellings. This ambiguity stops
(d) nighttime habits
her from speaking openly, fearing unpredictable
reactions. Ans

31. “Those two, Nana and my mother, must have (b) legs
been discussing my ______ from the day I was Despite generally valuing Nana’s guidance,
born.” Adjoa struggles to reconcile her admiration with
(a) height Nana’s constant complaints about her legs. This
(b) legs contradiction challenges Adjoa’s notion of what
(c) face makes an adult “good.”
(d) soft hair
35. “Nana thought it would be a ______ of time.
Ans I never understood what she meant.”
(b) legs (a) risk
(b) future
Adjoa notes that her legs have been a lifelong
(c) joke
topic of debate. Nana and Maami continually
(d) waste
question their appearance, shaping Adjoa’s self-
awareness about them. Ans
(d) waste
While Maami values education, Nana dismisses
schooling as a “waste.” Adjoa, unclear why Nana
32. “‘Some people have no legs at all,’ my mother feels this way, is caught between her mother’s
would try again with all her small ______.” encouragement and Nana’s skepticism.
(a) courage
36. “I was one of my ______’s runners.”
(b) wit
(a) mother
(c) hope
(b) father
(d) remarks
(c) school
Ans (d) friend
(a) courage Ans
Although timid, Maami attempts to defend (c) school
Adjoa’s legs by emphasizing how fortunate it is to
Adjoa proudly represents her school in a district
have any legs at all. Nana’s firm beliefs, however,
sports competition, proving that her supposedly
usually overpower Maami’s timid protests.
“too thin and too long” legs excel in running.
33. “And also too ______ for a woman,” Nana
37. “She carried the gleaming ______ on her back.
says of Adjoa’s legs.
Like they do with babies.”
(a) heavy
(a) blanket
(b) slanted
(b) cup
(c) long
(c) hamper
(d) crooked
(d) groceries
Ans Ans
(c) long (b) cup
Besides calling them too thin, Nana insists long Nana’s unusual choice to carry the winner’s cup on
legs are unsuitable for a proper woman. This rigid her back showcases her pride in Adjoa’s athletic
standard reflects her belief that female legs must triumph. This symbolic gesture underscores her
be shorter and meatier. changing attitude toward Adjoa’s legs.

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

3. They return to the village, triumphantly her uncertainty about whether she can correctly
showing the cup to Maami. articulate the complex ideas in her head.
4. Nana unexpectedly joins Adjoa for the final
event of the sports week. 52. Identify the most logical link between the following
(a) 4, 2, 1, 3 statements:
(b) 2, 1, 4, 3 Statement (1) : Nana ridicules Adjoa if she says
(c) 4, 1, 3, 2 something deemed “too serious.”
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 Statement (2) : Adjoa avoids revealing her real
thoughts about her legs.
Ans (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(a) 4, 2, 1, 3 (b) (2) is the cause for (1)
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
First, Nana attends the concluding events (4).
(d) (1) and (2) do not affect each other
Adjoa wins the top athlete trophy (2). Nana
proudly hoists it on her back (1), and together Ans
they head home to show Maami (3). (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
50. Select the correct sequence describing the final Frequent mockery discourages Adjoa from
realization: speaking candidly, particularly on sensitive issues
1. Nana weeps quietly, muttering that thin legs like her legs. Nana’s laughter and warnings create
can also be “useful.” a climate where Adjoa chooses silence rather than
2. Adjoa realizes showing, not telling, changed risking embarrassment.
Nana’s mind.
3. Nana seats Adjoa on her knee after the 53. Choose how statements (1) and (2) interrelate in
victories. the story:
4. Adjoa acknowledges it’s safer to demonstrate Statement (1) : Nana insists that a girl’s legs
rather than speak her truth. should be thick to bear children.
(a) 2, 4, 3, 1 Statement (2) : Adjoa’s long, thin legs become a
(b) 4, 2, 1, 3 constant subject of family debate.
(c) 3, 1, 2, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2 (b) (2) is the cause for (1)
(c) (1) and (2) are unrelated
Ans (d) (1) is the cause for (2)
(c) 3, 1, 2, 4 Ans
Nana holds Adjoa after the success (3), tearfully (d) (1) is the cause for (2)
admitting her newfound appreciation of thin legs
(1). Adjoa sees this proof supersedes debate (2), Nana’s belief that proper female legs must support
and she values action over uncertain words (4). future childbearing drives ongoing criticism of
Adjoa’s legs, making them a recurring point of
51. Decide which relationship between (1) and (2) is contention between Nana, Maami, and eventually
accurate: Adjoa herself.
Statement (1) : Adjoa fears sharing her ideas
because adults often mock her. 54. Determine the correct connection between the
Statement (2) : She struggles to voice her statements below:
thoughts, unsure if she has the right words. Statement (1) : Maami gently tries defending
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false Adjoa, mentioning some people lack legs entirely.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Statement (2) : Nana persists that Adjoa’s legs,
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) though present, are “too thin.”
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
Ans (c) (1) leads to (2)
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (d) (1) and (2) are independent positions
Being ridiculed by Nana and others makes Adjoa Ans
wary of speaking up. This constant dismissal fuels (d) (1) and (2) are independent positions

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4. Maami quietly tries to mention that some Initially, Nana dismisses formal education (1).
people have no legs at all. Maami bemoans ignorance (2). Adjoa, however,
(a) 2, 4, 3, 1 is happy trekking to school (3). Nana ironically
(b) 4, 1, 2, 3 suggests Adjoa should use her “long legs” there
(c) 2, 3, 1, 4 (4).
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2
47. Identify the proper sequence of these key
Ans developments:
(a) 2, 4, 3, 1 1. Adjoa wins all her school races at the district
sports week.
Nana brings up rare limb deficiencies first (2).
2. Nana initially disbelieves Adjoa has been
Maami gently mentions total leg loss (4). Nana
chosen to represent the school.
then deems Adjoa’s legs poor for a girl (3),
3. Nana proudly washes and irons Adjoa’s
blaming inheritance from her father (1).
uniform.
45. Select the sequence that correctly reflects Adjoa’s 4. Nana verifies the news about Adjoa’s athletic
observations: selection.
1. Adjoa wonders if “approved legs” simply refer (a) 2, 4, 3, 1
to adult women’s covered legs. (b) 4, 2, 1, 3
2. She notices older women’s wrap-arounds hide (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
their leg shapes. (d) 3, 2, 1, 4
3. She never sees most women’s uncovered legs Ans
at home or the river.
4. Adjoa imagines verifying whether meatier (a) 2, 4, 3, 1
legs are necessary for childbearing. Nana doubts the rumor at first (2). She confirms
(a) 4, 1, 3, 2 the information (4), then meticulously launders
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4 and presses Adjoa’s uniform (3). Finally, Adjoa
(c) 2, 4, 3, 1 competes and emerges victorious in every race
(d) 1, 2, 4, 3 (1).
Ans 48. Which arrangement of events is accurate?
(b) 2, 3, 1, 4 1. Nana borrows a charcoal pressing iron from
Mr. Mensah.
She first notes wrap-arounds hide the older
2. Nana washes Adjoa’s uniform meticulously.
women’s forms (2). Because of that, she seldom
3. Nana strolls behind the schoolchildren in
sees bare legs (3). She wonders if “correct” legs
stiffly starched cloths.
are just unseen (1) and ponders childbearing
4. Nana attends the district sports, quietly
claims (4).
observing.
46. Determine the accurate order in which the (a) 2, 1, 4, 3
following events occur: (b) 4, 1, 2, 3
1. Nana calls schooling a “waste of time.” (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
2. Maami regrets living in “darkness” without (d) 2, 1, 3, 4
education. Ans
3. Adjoa walks several kilometres to school, not
minding the distance. (d) 2, 1, 3, 4
4. Nana half-jokes that “with legs like hers,” She begins by carefully washing Adjoa’s uniform
Adjoa might as well learn. (2). Next, she borrows the iron (1), dons starched
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 cloths and follows the students (3), and finally
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 observes Adjoa’s performance at the district
(c) 1, 4, 2, 3 sports (4).
(d) 3, 2, 4, 1
49. Decide the chronological order of these statements:
Ans 1. Nana carries the trophy on her back as if it
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 were a baby.
2. Adjoa clinches the best junior athlete cup.

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Ans (ii) When there isn’t a severe drought, Hasodzi

(d) (2) proves (1) becomes a fertile area with thriving
agriculture, thanks to the moisture and
Adjoa’s inability to articulate her feelings is
nutrients in its lowland soil.
resolved by demonstrating her legs’ capacity
The speaker highlights “good soil” to
on the sports field. Nana’s shift confirms that
emphasize that the land is well-suited for
showing results accomplishes what words alone
cultivation and can support abundant crops,
could not.
reflecting its agricultural potential when
weather conditions are favorable.
(iii) Being born in a distinct place like Hasodzi,
EXTRACT BASED QUESTION known for its size and fertile ground, likely
shapes the speaker’s sense of identity and
roots.
1. Read the following extract from the text and
They may feel pride or a special connection
answer the questions that follow:
to this region, seeing it as a foundational
“They say that I was born in Hasodzi; and it is
part of their personal history and cultural
a very big village in the Central Region of our
background.
country, Ghana. They also say that when all of
(iv) Describing Hasodzi as in “a very fertile low
Africa is not choking under a drought, Hasodzi
land” underscores its agricultural value-fertile
lies in a very fertile low land in a district known
lowlands are often ideal for farming and
for its good soil.”
sustaining livelihoods.
(i) Where is Hasodzi located?
Mentioning drought juxtaposes this fertility
Why is it described as “very big”?
with the harsh reality that, without consistent
How does the reference to “the Central Region
rainfall, even fertile areas can suffer. It
of our country, Ghana” help us understand its
highlights environmental challenges that
geographical context?
impact daily life and economic stability.
(ii) What happens to Hasodzi when “all of Africa
(v) The description seems to blend factual
is not choking under a drought”?
information about the geography and climate
Why do you think the speaker mentions
with the speaker’s sense of origin, suggesting
“good soil”?
both pride and connection to Hasodzi.
(iii) How might the speaker’s birthplace influence
References to its “good soil,” its size, and the
their identity or sense of belonging?
contrasting image of drought versus fertility
(iv) What is the significance of describing Hasodzi
point to a deeper emotional or cultural tie,
as being in “a very fertile low land”?
indicating that the speaker values Hasodzi’s
How does the mention of drought highlight
potential as well as its realities.
environmental challenges?
(v) Do you think the description of Hasodzi is 2. Read the following extract from the text and
purely factual, or does it convey pride and answer the questions that follow:
connection to the land? “Because it is always difficult to decide whether
Which details in the extract support your to keep quiet and not say any of the things that
view? come into my head, or say them and get laughed
Ans at. Not that it is easy to get any grown-up to
listen to you even when you decide to take the
(i) Hasodzi is located in the Central Region of
risk and say something serious to them.”
Ghana, indicating it is part of a well-defined
(i) Why does the speaker find it difficult to
administrative area in the country.
decide whether to speak up or remain silent?
It is described as “very big” possibly to
How does the fear of being laughed at
convey its importance or the large number of
influence this decision?
people who reside there, giving a sense of its
What risk does the speaker face when saying
prominence among neighboring villages.
something “serious”?
Mentioning the Central Region of Ghana
(ii) Why does the speaker mention “grown-up”
places Hasodzi on the national map and
listeners?
provides clarity about its broader setting
What does this imply about the speaker’s
within Africa.

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Maami’s argument about gratitude-some have no Ans

legs-doesn’t sway Nana’s view. Nana continues (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
believing that Adjoa’s legs are insufficient. Both
Nana’s mocking attitude coexists with her
stances co-exist without directly causing or
acceptance that Adjoa might benefit from
negating each other.
schooling. She jokes that Adjoa’s legs, being long
55. Evaluate how statements (1) and (2) connect and thin, are more suited for walking to class
within the narrative: than childbearing.
Statement (1) : Nana frequently references
58. Figure out the connection between statements (1)
Adjoa’s father to criticize Adjoa’s physique.
and (2) regarding Adjoa’s racing success:
Statement (2) : Maami falls silent whenever Nana
Statement (1) : Adjoa wins district races, proving
brings up her husband’s “defects.”
her legs’ surprising power.
(a) (1) is false and (2) is true
Statement (2) : Nana washes and irons Adjoa’s
(b) (2) is the cause for (1)
uniform daily, showing new pride.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(a) (1) is the reason for (2)
(d) (1) and (2) have no direct link
(b) (2) leads inevitably to (1)
Ans (c) (1) is false while (2) is true
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (d) (1) and (2) are totally unrelated

By attributing Adjoa’s “spindly” legs to her Ans

father, Nana shames Maami’s choice of husband. (a) (1) is the reason for (2)
Maami’s embarrassment and sense of defeat lead
Adjoa’s unexpected athletic success prompts
her to silence whenever Nana raises this argument.
Nana’s enthusiastic support, symbolized by her
56. Select the option that clarifies the relationship careful uniform preparations. Nana’s pride stems
between (1) and (2): from witnessing how Adjoa’s legs excel at running
Statement (1) : Adjoa notices adults repeatedly despite earlier doubts.
discussing her legs since birth. 59. Choose the best explanation for how (1) and (2)
Statement (2) : Adjoa realizes her legs are “the align in the story:
first topic” of her life. Statement (1) : Nana carries Adjoa’s trophy on
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false her back like a precious baby.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Statement (2) : Nana finally acknowledges that
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) “thin legs can also be useful.”
(d) (1) and (2) amount to the same idea (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Ans (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) triggers (2)
(d) (1) and (2) amount to the same idea (d) (1) and (2) are independent truths
From infancy, Adjoa’s legs remain the family’s Ans
major concern. She recognizes this ongoing
fixation, concluding her legs were central from (c) (1) triggers (2)
day one-both statements describe that shared Nana’s gesture of hoisting the trophy conveys pride
realization. and admiration for Adjoa’s running. That visible
pride leads her to reconsider her assumptions,
57. Identify the correct relationship between the admitting those thin legs do have true worth.
following statements:
Statement (1) : Nana ridicules Adjoa’s thin legs 60. Determine how these statements intersect:
but encourages her to attend school. Statement (1) : Adjoa realizes actions can speak
Statement (2) : Nana believes Adjoa’s legs can at louder than words.
least carry her to learn, if not to bear children. Statement (2) : Nana’s transformation in attitude
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false unfolds only after Adjoa’s track victories.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(d) (2) proves (1)

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

(iv) Nana’s persistent remarks about Adjoa’s Which details in the extract support your
legs and her blunt refusal to hear Maami’s view?
viewpoint create a clear strain between the
Ans
two women. Nana’s criticisms come across
as authoritative and unsympathetic, while (i) The mother says, “Some people have no legs
Maami wants to defend her daughter. at all,” to highlight that Adjoa is fortunate
This conflict could lead Adjoa to become simply to have legs, aiming to shift focus from
self-conscious if she senses the adults around their perceived imperfections.
her are constantly debating or criticizing her It shows she views Adjoa’s legs in a more
appearance. accepting, empathetic light, seeing no need
(v) Some might see Nana’s concerns as genuine for alarm or excessive criticism.
worry for her granddaughter’s health, By pointing out that others are in worse
especially if she believes thin legs could situations, she tries-albeit gently-to defend
indicate a developmental issue. However, the her daughter and put Nana’s worries into
extract suggests she is overly critical, given her perspective.
abrupt dismissal of Maami’s reassurance and (ii) Nana acknowledges that Adjoa indeed has
her immediate focus on what she perceives as legs, but immediately qualifies her statement
a defect. by labeling them as “too thin” and “too long,”
The details-her repetitive “Hm… hm… revealing her belief in certain traditional
hm…,” head-shaking, and direct criticism or personal ideals about how a girl’s body
(“They are too thin”)-support the view that should look.
she may be exaggerating or placing excessive This indicates that Nana’s standard for a
importance on Adjoa’s legs, rather than “proper” female figure involves legs of a
offering constructive help or understanding. certain shape or proportion, and Adjoa’s do
not meet her expectations.
9. Read the following extract from the text and (iii) These contrasting viewpoints-one emphasizing
answer the questions that follow: gratitude and acceptance, and the other
“‘Some people have no legs at all,’ my mother voicing dissatisfaction-create tension because
would try again with all her small courage. they reflect fundamentally different attitudes.
‘But Adjoa has legs,’ Nana would insist; ‘except that While the mother tries to show tolerance
they are too thin. And also too long for a woman.’” and positivity, Nana focuses on faults and
(i) Why does the mother say, “Some people have criticism, causing friction in how they discuss
no legs at all”? Adjoa’s appearance.
What does this reveal about her attitude (iv) Nana’s remarks could make Adjoa feel self-
toward Adjoa’s legs? conscious, inadequate, or insecure, particularly
How does this statement reflect the mother’s because they come from a respected elder.
attempt to defend Adjoa? A young girl hearing repeated criticisms
(ii) Why does Nana insist that “Adjoa has legs,” about her body shape or size might internalize
but also criticize them for being “too thin” the message that something is wrong with
and “too long for a woman”? her, which can have a lasting impact on her
What does this suggest about Nana’s confidence and self-image.
standards or expectations? (v) Some might see the mother’s gentle reminder-
(iii) How do these differing viewpoints (the that others have far greater challenges-as
mother’s versus Nana’s) create tension in a compassionate way to counter Nana’s
their conversation? negativity and place the issue into a broader
(iv) In what ways might Nana’s comments about context.
leg shape and length affect Adjoa’s sense of However, others may argue her approach is
self? too subtle or deferential, especially when faced
Why could these criticisms be particularly with Nana’s strong, repeated criticism. The
impactful for a young girl? extract shows Nana immediately dismisses or
(v) Do you think the mother’s approach is overrides the mother’s perspective, suggesting
effective in countering Nana’s criticism, or is the mother’s mild strategy may not be forceful
it too gentle? enough to curb Nana’s remarks.

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perspective or experience when trying to overlooked or ridiculed, making it hard for

communicate? them to feel heard.
(iii) How does the phrase “not that it is easy to The extract’s emphasis on the difficulty of
get any grown-up to listen to you” capture “getting any grown-up to listen” and the
the speaker’s frustration? fear of being mocked underscores why these
(iv) What does this extract suggest about the worries about communication are reasonable.
speaker’s self-confidence or self-expression? The speaker’s frustration indicates they’ve
In what way does it reveal a gap between likely faced this dismissal before, lending
children’s thoughts and adult perceptions? credibility to their concern.
(v) Do you think the speaker’s concerns are
justified? 3. Read the following extract from the text and
Which details in the extract support your answer the questions that follow:
answer? “Take Nana. First, I have to struggle to catch her
Ans attention. Then I tell her something I had taken a
long time to figure out. And then you know what
(i) The speaker struggles because speaking up always happens? She would at once stop whatever
might lead to mockery or dismissal, whereas she is doing and, mouth open, stare at me for a
remaining silent means not sharing any ideas very long time.”
at all. (i) Why does the speaker mention “Take Nana”?
The possibility of being laughed at makes the Why does the speaker have to “struggle to
speaker hesitate, weighing whether it’s worth catch her attention”?
the embarrassment. What does “something I had taken a long time
The “risk” in saying something serious is to figure out” suggest about the speaker’s
that adults may trivialize or ridicule the thought process?
speaker’s words, rather than considering (ii) What does the speaker’s approach to telling
them thoughtfully. Nana reveal about their need for validation or
(ii) By referring to “grown-up” listeners, the understanding?
speaker hints at a generational or authority How does Nana react after finally hearing the
gap-adults often have power over the speaker?
conversation and may not take children’s (iii) What impact does Nana’s “mouth open,
thoughts seriously. stare” have on the speaker’s feelings?
This suggests the speaker feels that adults (iv) Why might Nana’s reaction be both surprising
generally dismiss or belittle a child’s and frustrating for the speaker?
viewpoint, reinforcing why it’s nerve-wracking How could this reaction affect the speaker’s
to speak up. willingness to share ideas in the future?
(iii) The phrase highlights a sense of resignation (v) Do you think the speaker’s frustration with
or disappointment in trying to communicate Nana is justified, or does it stem from a
serious ideas to adults. misunderstanding?
The speaker feels that even if they overcome Which details in the extract support your
the fear of being laughed at, adults still aren’t perspective?
willing to listen attentively, compounding the
difficulty of true dialogue. Ans
(iv) It implies the speaker is torn between wanting (i) The speaker brings up Nana as a specific
to express themselves and fearing negative example of an adult whose attention is
reactions. Their struggle reflects uncertainty difficult to capture.
about whether their ideas will be received They must “struggle” because Nana is often
with respect. preoccupied, and the speaker feels that getting
This tension points to a broader divide her to truly listen requires extra effort.
between children’s earnest impulses and adult Referring to “something I had taken a long
skepticism, suggesting the speaker perceives a time to figure out” shows the speaker puts
lack of understanding or empathy from older genuine thought into their ideas, making it
people. even more important that Nana takes them
(v) Many would argue the speaker’s concerns seriously.
are valid-children’s perspectives are often

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

(ii) The speaker’s approach-patiently waiting, How might this reaction appear to someone
then sharing a carefully formed thought- seeking a serious conversation?
reveals a strong desire for acknowledgment (iii) What does the phrase “continue laughing
and for an adult to genuinely engage with until she was completely tired” suggest about
what they have to say. the intensity of her laughter?
Nana’s reaction is to drop everything and (iv) How could such an overwhelming reaction
stare, which initially might seem like she’s affect the speaker’s willingness to share
giving full attention, but it comes across as thoughts or feelings?
more startling than encouraging. What might the speaker infer from this
(iii) Nana’s long, silent stare can make the behavior?
speaker feel awkward or self-conscious. (v) Do you think her laughter is a sign of genuine
Instead of feeling validated, the speaker may amusement, or could it be dismissive of the
interpret this as confusion or a lack of real speaker’s words?
understanding, undercutting their confidence. Which details in the extract support your
(iv) It is surprising because Nana suddenly stops viewpoint?
and stares, which might indicate amazement Ans
or confusion. It is frustrating because the
(i) She laughs so hard that tears stream down
speaker wants meaningful dialogue, but
her cheeks, suggesting an extremely strong
instead gets a reaction that feels more like
emotional or humorous reaction.
being gawked at than heard.
When the tears come, she wipes them away
Such a response could discourage the speaker
with the edges of her cloth, showing how fully
from sharing future ideas, fearing that any
she’s immersed in the moment of laughter.
serious point they make will be met with
The repetitive nature of her laughter points to
silence or bewilderment.
a loss of control-she’s so caught up in hilarity
(v) Many would see the speaker’s frustration as
that it exhausts her.
justified since they put effort into formulating
(ii) She stops her activity because the laughter
their thoughts and yet receive a reaction that
overtakes her focus, leaving no room for
doesn’t feel genuinely engaging. On the other
multitasking.
hand, it could also stem from a misunderstanding
To someone hoping to be taken seriously,
: perhaps Nana’s stare is her way of processing
this behavior may seem dismissive or
the speaker’s words or showing surprise at the
overwhelming, as if any serious point is
complexity of their ideas.
drowned out by laughter.
The detail that Nana “at once stops whatever
(iii) The phrase “continue laughing until she
she is doing” and just gapes indicates the
was completely tired” highlights not just a
speaker’s discomfort with this nonverbal,
brief giggle but a prolonged, all-consuming
extended reaction-one that falls short of a
reaction.
real conversation or verbal acknowledgment.
It indicates that her laughter can’t be easily
4. Read the following extract from the text and stopped-she laughs until she physically can’t
answer the questions that follow: laugh anymore.
“She would laugh and laugh and laugh, until tears (iv) Such an intense reaction could discourage
ran down her cheeks and she would stop whatever the speaker from sharing personal or serious
she was doing and wipe away the tears with thoughts, fearing they won’t be taken
the hanging edges of her cloth. And she would seriously.
continue laughing until she was completely tired.” They might interpret the persistent laughter
(i) Why does she laugh so much that tears run as a lack of genuine engagement or respect,
down her cheeks? creating reluctance to open up in the future.
How does she deal with the tears when they (v) Some may view her laughter as genuine
come? amusement, reflecting a strong sense of joy or
What does this repeated laughter indicate humor. However, it could also come across as
about her emotional response? dismissive if it happens whenever the speaker
(ii) Why does she stop whatever she is doing shares something important.
when she laughs? The detail that she literally stops everything
and laughs until exhaustion can suggest

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she’s not truly listening, which supports the Seeing multiple people react with uproarious
possibility that it’s more dismissive than laughter at something the speaker considered
affirming. worth sharing can be deeply disheartening,
suggesting the speaker’s ideas aren’t taken
5. Read the following extract from the text and seriously at all.
answer the questions that follow: (iii) “Laughing and screaming with tears running
“But then, as soon as another person comes by, down their faces” indicates an extreme
just to make sure she doesn’t forget whatever (it emotional release-so overwhelming that
was) I had said, she would repeat it to her. And it causes tears, loud reactions, and loss of
then, of course, there would be two old people composure.
laughing and screaming with tears running down This level of intensity makes the event feel like
their faces.” a spectacle rather than a simple humorous
(i) Why does she repeat the speaker’s words to moment.
another person? (iv) The speaker’s perspective suggests they’re
How might this affect the speaker’s feelings seeking a thoughtful response to their
about sharing personal thoughts? ideas, not just comedic amusement. Their
In what way does having “two old people frustration highlights a deeper conflict : they
laughing” intensify the speaker’s discomfort? want respect and meaningful engagement,
(ii) How does this laughter impact the atmosphere but instead receive uncontrolled laughter.
for the speaker? This clash reveals the distance between how
Why might seeing more than one person react older people perceive the speaker’s words
this way be even more unsettling? (as a source of amusement) and how the
(iii) What does the phrase “laughing and screaming speaker wants to be heard (seriously and with
with tears running down their faces” suggest respect).
about the intensity of their reaction? (v) The speaker’s frustration seems justified, as
(iv) How does the speaker’s perspective on this their message is repeatedly turned into a
communal laughter reveal something about public joke without their consent. The details-
their need for validation or respect? two people laughing until they cry, sharing
What deeper conflict does it highlight in the it with anyone who passes by-show that the
way older people treat the speaker’s words? speaker’s intentions are not being honored.
(v) Do you think the speaker’s frustration is One could argue, however, that the laughter
justified or might they be misinterpreting the might stem from genuine delight rather than
laughter? mockery. Yet, from the speaker’s viewpoint,
Which details in the extract support your it feels dismissive and embarrassing, which
perspective? supports their sense of being misunderstood
or ridiculed.
Ans
(i) She repeats the speaker’s words to another 6. Read the following extract from the text and
person as if it’s too funny to keep to herself, answer the questions that follow:
or possibly because she wants to share the “Like all this business to do with my legs. I have
joke and remember it. always wanted to tell them not to worry. I mean
This action can make the speaker feel even Nana and my mother. That it did not have to be
more exposed or ridiculed, as what was meant an issue for my two favorite people to fight over.”
to be a serious or private thought becomes (i) What does the speaker refer to when
the subject of communal laughter. mentioning “all this business to do with my
Having two older people now laughing and legs”?
crying with mirth amplifies the sense of being Why has the speaker “always wanted to tell
mocked, making the speaker’s discomfort them not to worry”?
more intense. How does the mention of Nana and the
(ii) The atmosphere becomes even more alienating speaker’s mother add importance to the issue?
for the speaker because the laughter appears (ii) Why might the speaker see this concern about
to spread, emphasizing a lack of genuine their legs as something that “did not have to
understanding or empathy. be an issue”?

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

What does this suggest about the speaker’s could help both Nana and the mother realize
perspective on the situation? that the speaker is not overly troubled by the
(iii) How could the speaker’s wish for them “not to issue.
worry” reflect their desire for peace between On the other hand, dismissing their concerns
Nana and their mother? too lightly might lead to misunderstandings if
(iv) In what ways might the speaker’s two the adults sense a lack of honesty or believe
“favorite people” have different views on the the speaker is minimizing a real problem.
issue with the speaker’s legs? The extract shows that the speaker’s biggest
What underlying conflict does this reveal? concern is preventing conflict, but that
(v) Do you think the speaker’s approach of doesn’t necessarily solve the root cause of
downplaying the issue is helpful or could it their disagreement.
lead to misunderstandings?
Which details in the extract support your 7. Read the following extract from the text and
viewpoint? answer the questions that follow:
Ans “When I think back on it now, those two, Nana
and my mother, must have been discussing my
(i) The speaker is talking about a particular legs from the day I was born. What I am sure of
concern or problem related to their legs, is that when I came out of the land of sweet, soft
which seems to cause anxiety or disputes silence into the world of noise and comprehension,
between Nana and the speaker’s mother. the first topic I met was my legs.”
They’ve “always wanted to tell them not (i) Why does the speaker say Nana and the
to worry” because the speaker believes the mother “must have been discussing my legs
problem is being made bigger than it should from the day I was born”?
be, or that it’s manageable without so much How might the speaker’s early awareness of
stress. this topic have shaped their childhood?
Mentioning Nana and the mother highlights What does the phrase “the first topic I met”
how important the issue is-these are the reveal about the speaker’s view of this issue?
two people closest to the speaker, and their (ii) What does the speaker mean by “the land of
conflict deeply affects the speaker. sweet, soft silence”?
(ii) The speaker sees the concern over their legs Why does the speaker contrast this with “the
as unnecessary drama, feeling that the worry world of noise and comprehension”?
is disproportionate or unproductive. (iii) How does the constant discussion of the
This suggests the speaker is more accepting speaker’s legs affect their sense of identity?
of their condition (whatever it may be) In what ways could this focus influence the
and wants others to remain calm instead of speaker’s self-perception?
treating it like a crisis. (iv) Why might Nana and the speaker’s mother
(iii) By expressing a wish for them “not to worry,” feel the need to talk about the speaker’s legs
the speaker shows a strong desire to ease so frequently?
tension between Nana and their mother. How could their intentions differ from the
They don’t want to be the cause of arguments speaker’s interpretation?
between the two people they care about most. (v) Do you believe the speaker’s reaction to this
(iv) Nana and the mother may have different lifelong attention is justified?
attitudes-perhaps one is overly protective Which details in the extract support your
while the other has a more relaxed view, or viewpoint?
they disagree on treatment or handling of the
speaker’s leg issues. Ans
This reveals a deeper conflict : their differing (i) They likely discussed the speaker’s legs from
perspectives lead to arguments, and the birth because it was a noticeable concern or
speaker is caught in the middle, wishing to condition that drew constant attention.
maintain harmony. Being exposed to this issue so early may have
(v) On one hand, the speaker’s approach of made the speaker grow up feeling that their
telling them “not to worry” might soothe legs were the central focus of others’ worries.
tensions and discourage further arguments. It “The first topic I met” implies that before

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the speaker could even fully understand the Nana : ‘They are too thin. And I am not asking
world around them, the conversation about you!’
their legs was already in progress, shaping (i) Why does Nana say she is thankful that
their earliest memories and experiences. Kaya’s first child is female?
(ii) “The land of sweet, soft silence” metaphorically Why does she follow this statement with
refers to the speaker’s existence before fully uncertainty about the child’s legs?
perceiving or understanding the outside How does her repeated “Hm… hm… hm…”
world-perhaps life as an infant, when one is and head-shaking reveal her state of mind?
blissfully unaware of adult concerns. (ii) Why might Maami challenge Nana’s criticism
They contrast this calm, unknowing state of Adjoa’s legs?
with “the world of noise and comprehension,” How does Nana respond to Maami’s objection?
meaning the point at which they became (iii) What does Nana mean by “They are too
conscious of people talking, worrying, and thin”?
making judgments-especially about their legs. (iv) How do Nana’s words and actions create
(iii) This constant emphasis on their legs could tension between her and Maami?
make the speaker feel that their physical In what way might this conflict affect Adjoa’s
condition defines them, overshadowing other perception of herself?
aspects of their personality or abilities. (v) Do you think Nana’s concerns are based on
It may create a sense of self-consciousness or genuine worry, or do they seem overly critical?
even frustration, as they come to see their What details in the extract support your
legs not just as part of their body but as a view?
persistent topic of scrutiny and worry.
Ans
(iv) Nana and the mother might be talking so
frequently about the speaker’s legs out of (i) Nana is grateful that Kaya’s first child is a
love, concern, or a desire to find solutions girl, perhaps because of cultural or personal
or treatments. They could also each have reasons-she might believe having a daughter
differing views on how best to address the first is a blessing or aligns with traditional
situation, leading to ongoing discussions. expectations.
From the speaker’s point of view, it may feel Right after expressing this gratitude, she
invasive or suffocating, but from the adults’ voices her doubt about the baby’s legs,
perspective, it might be genuine care or indicating that despite being thankful, she
necessary attention to a potential medical or immediately notices what she considers a flaw
developmental issue. or potential problem.
(v) The speaker’s reaction appears justified, as Her repeated “Hm… hm… hm…” and the
a lifetime of having their legs be the main head-shaking show hesitation and worry; it’s
topic would naturally lead to discomfort or as if she cannot fully articulate her concern but
irritation. From birth, it has overshadowed feels strongly enough to express disapproval.
many other aspects of their life. (ii) Maami challenges Nana’s criticism because she
The extract underscores how this topic likely believes Adjoa’s legs are perfectly fine,
was omnipresent-indeed “the first” they or at least not worth constant complaining.
encountered-supporting the speaker’s sense Maami may also be protective of her child
of being defined by it and validating their and weary of Nana’s negativity.
frustration. Nana abruptly dismisses Maami’s input-
“I am not asking you!”-shutting down
8. Read the following extract from the text and further discussion. This reply shows Nana’s
answer the questions that follow: unwillingness to entertain a different
Nana : ‘Ah, ah, you know, Kaya, I thank my God perspective on Adjoa’s legs.
that your very first child is female. But Kaya, I (iii) When Nana says “They are too thin,” she
am not sure about her legs. is voicing a direct judgment about Adjoa’s
Hm… hm… hm…’ physical appearance, implying that slender
(Nana would shake her head.) legs are a problem or something to be
Maami : ‘Mother, why are you always complaining concerned about.
about Adjoa’s legs? If you ask me …’

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

38. “As soon as she saw me run, Nana realized that Ans
my ______ might be useful.” (b) 2, 4, 1, 3
(a) arms
Adjoa enters a noisy world (2) and soon realizes
(b) smile
her legs dominate conversations (4). Nana first
(c) legs
calls them too thin (1), then criticizes their length
(d) shoes
(3), revealing the family’s leg fixation.
Ans
42. Pick the right chronological sequence:
(c) legs 1. Adjoa contemplates telling Nana and Maami
Adjoa’s races challenge Nana’s deep-seated belief not to worry about her legs.
that thin legs cannot be beneficial. Her success in 2. Nana openly laughs at Adjoa’s spoken ideas.
sports triggers Nana’s newfound respect for her 3. Adjoa resents how adults dismiss children’s
granddaughter’s body. thoughts.
4. She decides staying quiet might be better
39. “Thin legs can also be ______ thin legs can than risking mockery.
also be ______,” Nana mutters. (a) 4, 2, 3, 1
(a) strong/mighty (b) 2, 1, 4, 3
(b) useful/useful (c) 3, 4, 2, 1
(c) good/big (d) 3, 2, 4, 1
(d) perfect/perfect Ans
Ans (d) 3, 2, 4, 1
(b) useful/useful Adjoa notices how grown-ups never truly listen
Nana’s repeated words confirm her surprising (3). Nana’s laughter confirms it (2). She weighs
change of heart. After seeing Adjoa’s running silence to avoid ridicule (4). Only then does she
prowess, she acknowledges that thin legs have their ponder comforting them about her legs (1).
advantages, ending her long-standing criticism.
43. Arrange these points from Adjoa’s life in their
40. “I don’t know too much about such things. But proper time order:
that’s how I was feeling and ______ all along.” 1. Nana shakes her head, declaring Adjoa’s legs
(a) thinking lack “meat.”
(b) hiding 2. Maami attempts to defend Adjoa’s legs.
(c) ignoring 3. Nana insists if a girl is born with legs, they
(d) joking must be sturdy.
4. Nana praises God that Adjoa is female.
Ans
(a) 4, 1, 2, 3
(a) thinking (b) 2, 3, 4, 1
Adjoa reveals she always suspected legs could (c) 4, 2, 1, 3
serve more purposes than merely childbearing. (d) 1, 3, 4, 2
Yet, she hesitated to articulate these thoughts, Ans
afraid she would be laughed at or forbidden.
(a) 4, 1, 2, 3
41. Which option places these events in the correct Nana first rejoices over a baby granddaughter (4).
order? She then criticizes Adjoa’s “meatless” legs (1).
(1) Nana complains Adjoa’s legs are too thin. Maami tries to stick up for Adjoa (2), but Nana
(2) Adjoa is born into a “world of noise.” stresses women need strong legs (3).
(3) Nana proclaims Adjoa’s legs are also too long.
(4) Adjoa notices her legs are the first topic of 44. Find the correct order of these moments:
concern. 1. Nana hints Adjoa’s father is the reason for
(a) 4, 1, 3, 2 “strange” genes.
(b) 2, 4, 1, 3 2. Nana references children born with missing
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 limbs as rare cases.
(d) 3, 4, 2, 1 3. Nana claims long, thin legs are unfit for a
woman.

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10. Read the following extract from the text and This silent grief contributes to the tension,
answer the questions that follow: as it reveals a clash between Nana’s blunt
“‘What kind of legs?’ And always at that point, I criticism and the mother’s quiet suffering-two
knew from her voice that my mother was weeping emotional extremes that never fully reconcile.
inside. Nana never heard such inside weeping. Not (iv) It highlights how Nana’s harsh words cut
that it would have stopped Nana even if she had deeply into the mother’s heart, causing a
heard it.” private pain she does not openly share.
(i) Why does the speaker’s mother ask, “What Her hidden tears matter to the speaker
kind of legs?” because they confirm that the mother is
How does the speaker sense that her mother deeply affected, even if she maintains a calm
is “weeping inside”? exterior. The mother’s quiet anguish likely
What does this reveal about the mother’s also heightens the speaker’s own sense of
emotional state? distress and empathy.
(ii) Why does the speaker say that Nana “never (v) Some might interpret Nana’s insensitivity as
heard such inside weeping”? a deliberate choice-she sticks firmly to her
What might be Nana’s reaction even if she beliefs about the child’s legs and disregards
did perceive the mother’s sadness? the mother’s feelings.
(iii) How does the concept of “inside weeping” Others could argue it reflects a personality
contribute to the overall tension between the that places blunt honesty above tact or
mother and Nana? empathy. The detail that “it would not
(iv) In what ways does this moment highlight the have stopped Nana even if she had heard it”
emotional impact of Nana’s criticism on the implies that Nana remains steadfast in her
mother? views, suggesting a lack of concern for the
Why could the mother’s hidden tears be mother’s emotional pain.
significant for the speaker?
(v) Do you believe Nana’s insensitivity is 11. Read the following extract from the text and
intentional or simply a reflection of her answer the questions that follow:
character? “How, ‘After one’s only daughter had insisted on
Which details in the extract support your marrying a man like that, you still have to thank
view? your God that the biggest problem you got later
was having a granddaughter with spindly legs
Ans that are too long for a woman, and too thin to be
(i) The mother asks, “What kind of legs?” as a of any use.’”
defense or a plea, challenging Nana’s critical (i) Why does the speaker mention “marrying a
remarks about their daughter’s legs. man like that”?
The speaker notices that her mother is How does this statement connect to the
“weeping inside” by picking up on the tone of criticism about the granddaughter’s legs?
her voice-a subtle but powerful sign of deep What does it suggest about the speaker’s
hurt and frustration. broader attitude toward the family?
This hidden sorrow suggests the mother is (ii) What does the phrase “you still have to
deeply pained by Nana’s repeated criticism thank your God” imply about the speaker’s
yet cannot openly confront her. perspective on life’s problems?
(ii) When the speaker says Nana “never heard In what way does this comment minimize or
such inside weeping,” it implies Nana is either highlight the granddaughter’s legs as a concern?
oblivious to the mother’s unspoken anguish (iii) How does referring to the legs as “spindly”
or chooses to ignore it. and “too thin to be of any use” affect the
Even if Nana perceived the mother’s sorrow, granddaughter’s sense of self-worth?
she likely would not soften her stance or stop Why might this language be particularly
voicing her judgments, given her unwavering hurtful?
focus on the issue of the child’s legs. (iv) In what ways could the mention of the
(iii) The notion of “inside weeping” underscores granddaughter’s appearance be tied to
the emotional strain the mother endures underlying family tensions or judgments
without outwardly expressing her tears. about the parents’ choices?

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

Adjoa notices that certain statements evoke Ans

laughter and are repeated for fun, whereas others (b) To support childbearing hips
prompt stern warnings never to repeat them,
Nana repeatedly insists that strong, meaty legs
creating inconsistency and confusion.
ensure solid hips, which she ties to fertility. This
8. Which body part is a frequent topic of discussion stance underlies her critique of Adjoa’s slender,
between Nana and Maami? elongated legs.
(a) Adjoa’s hair
12. What contrasting impression does Adjoa have of
(b) Adjoa’s legs
Nana beyond the leg complaints?
(c) Adjoa’s eyes
(a) Nana is generally wicked
(d) Adjoa’s hands
(b) Nana rarely speaks
Ans (c) Nana travels frequently
(b) Adjoa’s legs (d) Nana is a “good grown-up” otherwise

Since her birth, Adjoa’s legs-deemed “too thin” Ans

and “too long for a woman”-are endlessly debated (d) Nana is a “good grown-up” otherwise
by Nana and Maami, making Adjoa self-conscious
Despite her relentless comments on Adjoa’s legs,
about them.
Nana displays kindness and wisdom in other
aspects. Adjoa can’t reconcile Nana’s usual
9. What does Nana believe about female legs? goodness with her harsh fixation on leg shape.
(a) They must be short and crooked
(b) They must be elegant and slender 13. How does Adjoa view the adult labels of “good”
(c) They should have meat and good calves and “bad” grown-ups?
(d) They should be narrow and fragile (a) She considers all adults good
Ans (b) She thinks only her mother is good
(c) She feels too young to truly judge
(c) They should have meat and good calves (d) She calls Nana a bad grown-up
Nana holds that a woman’s legs need ample flesh Ans
(“with good calves”) to support solid hips, which
she believes are vital for childbearing-her main (c) She feels too young to truly judge
measure of proper womanhood. Adjoa’s innocence makes it difficult for her to
categorize adults definitively. She respects Nana
10. What does Maami timidly point out in defense of but can’t justify why Nana’s endless critique of
Adjoa’s legs? her legs could still coexist with kindness.
(a) They are fashionable
(b) They look ordinary 14. Why can’t Adjoa easily see adult women’s legs in
(c) Some people have no legs at all her village?
(d) They are strong like tree trunks (a) They wear long wrap-arounds
(b) They refuse to show them
Ans (c) Her mother forbids her
(c) Some people have no legs at all (d) They only bathe at midnight
Maami tries to highlight that even having legs Ans
is a blessing compared to those without limbs. (a) They wear long wrap-arounds
However, Nana dismisses this view and remains
focused on Adjoa’s supposedly inadequate legs. Older women in the village keep their legs
concealed. Adjoa rarely witnesses their bare legs,
11. According to Nana, why must a girl have ‘proper’ so she can’t confirm whether all mothers truly
legs? have the “thicker” legs Nana praises.
(a) For dancing ceremonies 15. What distance do older kids mention between the
(b) To support childbearing hips village and the small town?
(c) To walk long distances (a) Two kilometers
(d) To look fashionable in the village (b) Five kilometers

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(ii) In the speaker’s village, older women (iii) In what ways could the lack of understanding
traditionally wear long wrap-arounds (likely a of “five kilometres” be tied to the speaker’s
culturally normative form of clothing), which age or life experience?
conceal their legs completely. (iv) How might walking long distances to school
Because of this custom, it is nearly impossible shape the attitudes and experiences of these
for the speaker to glimpse any older woman’s older students?
legs, thereby preventing any direct comparison What might it reveal about conditions in
or reassurance. their village?
(iii) The speaker’s strong focus on women’s legs (v) Do you think the speaker’s lack of awareness
indicates how deeply remarks about leg about distances is simply due to youth, or
appearance have impacted them. could it also point to broader educational or
Hearing repeated critiques-like legs being contextual factors?
“too thin” or “too long”-makes the speaker Which details in the extract support your
question what is normal or acceptable, view?
prompting a desire to verify other women’s
Ans
physiques.
(iv) Not being able to observe these legs leaves the (i) The older boys and girls mention the distance
speaker without concrete evidence of what of about five kilometres to indicate just how
typical “motherly” legs look like. far they have to travel between the village
This lack of direct information could and the small town-especially for school.
perpetuate the speaker’s insecurities or When the speaker says, “I don’t know what
confusion, reinforcing the idea that perhaps five kilometres mean,” it shows they’re
their own or a loved one’s legs are indeed either too young or haven’t been taught to
unusual, even if they might not be. measure distance in such terms, highlighting
(v) On one hand, the speaker’s wish can be seen a difference in understanding between them
as a natural response to incessant criticism- and the older children.
seeking tangible proof to confirm or deny the (ii) Their complaints about the walk suggest
critique. that attending school involves a lengthy daily
On the other, it may reflect how much journey, which can be physically tiring and
emphasis has been placed on physical traits in time-consuming.
this environment. The fact that the speaker’s This emphasizes a challenge in their routine,
curiosity is piqued by constant remarks about as they must spend a significant part of their
women’s legs suggests that those comments day getting to and from school, likely on foot.
have overshadowed other aspects of identity (iii) The speaker’s inability to comprehend
or well-being. The extract underscores the “five kilometres” likely stems from limited
speaker’s quest for clarity in a setting where exposure to formal metrics or the concept of
direct comparison isn’t easily possible. measured distances, which is more common
in older children or adults.
13. Read the following extract from the text and It indicates that the speaker may be younger
answer the questions that follow: or that such educational details haven’t been
“According to the older boys and girls, the introduced in their schooling yet.
distance between our little village and the small (iv) Walking a long distance to school can
town is about five kilometres. I don’t know what contribute to the older students’ feelings of
five kilometres mean. They always complain fatigue or frustration, possibly affecting their
about how long it is to walk to school and back.” motivation to attend or their performance at
(i) Why do the older boys and girls mention that school.
the distance is about five kilometres? It also reveals that the village might lack
How does the speaker’s admission-“I don’t nearby educational facilities, underscoring
know what five kilometres mean”-reflect their broader issues like infrastructure, access to
understanding or perspective? transportation, or resource allocation in the
(ii) What do the older students’ complaints about region.
walking to school suggest about their daily (v) It’s plausible the speaker’s youth is the
routine or challenges? main reason for not understanding “five

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

(v) Do you think the speaker’s criticism is meant personal biases regarding acceptable female
to be practical (worrying about functionality) body shape.
or is it more a reflection of personal or cultural The overall tone-derogatory and critical-
biases? supports the idea that it’s less about genuine
Which details in the extract support your practicality and more about the speaker’s
view? prejudices or dissatisfaction with the family’s
circumstances.
Ans
(i) The speaker references “a man like that” to 12. Read the following extract from the text and
indicate disapproval of the mother’s choice answer the questions that follow:
in partner, implying that this marriage was “So I wished that one day I would see, for myself,
already a source of disappointment. the legs of any woman who had children. But in
By linking it to the granddaughter’s “spindly our village, that is not easy. The older women
legs,” the speaker frames the child’s physical wear long wrap-arounds all the time.”
traits as yet another unfortunate outcome (i) Why does the speaker wish to see “the legs of
stemming from that marriage. any woman who had children”?
This suggests the speaker has a generally How does this desire connect to the criticisms
negative or judgmental view of both the the speaker has encountered regarding a
mother’s decision and the granddaughter’s woman’s legs?
appearance. What might the speaker hope to learn or
(ii) Saying “you still have to thank your God” confirm?
implies that, in the speaker’s view, there are (ii) Why is it difficult in the speaker’s village to
worse fates than having a granddaughter with observe the legs of older women?
less-than-ideal legs. How does this cultural or traditional practice
It both acknowledges that this situation is not of wearing long wrap-arounds limit the
the worst possible scenario and, at the same speaker’s curiosity?
time, underscores that the granddaughter’s (iii) What does the speaker’s focus on women’s
legs are seen as a significant, albeit not legs suggest about their self-perception or the
catastrophic, problem. influence of comments made by others?
(iii) Describing the legs as “spindly” and “too thin (iv) How might the speaker’s inability to see
to be of any use” can be deeply damaging these legs affect their understanding of what
to a young girl’s self-image, suggesting she’s “normal” or “acceptable” legs look like?
physically inadequate or lacking in worth. In what ways could this feed into the speaker’s
Such strong language reduces her legs to a doubts or questions?
flaw, implying they fail to meet a standard of (v) Do you think the speaker’s wish to compare
beauty or functionality, which could lead her legs is a reasonable response to constant
to feel defective or ashamed. criticism, or does it indicate an overemphasis
(iv) By connecting the granddaughter’s on physical appearance?
appearance to the parents’ choices, it reveals Which details in the extract support your
ongoing family tensions-perhaps the speaker perspective?
believes “a man like that” could only produce Ans
a child with perceived imperfections.
This tie between heredity and physical (i) The speaker wants to see the legs of women
traits highlights underlying resentment or who have had children to check whether their
disapproval, fueling conflicts about both own legs-or a relative’s legs-truly deviate
the granddaughter’s body and her parents’ from what is common.
marriage. This curiosity comes from repeatedly
(v) Some may argue the speaker is concerned hearing criticisms about how a woman’s legs
about practical matters, assuming “too thin “should” look, particularly regarding length
to be of any use” suggests worries about the or thickness.
child’s health or capability. By seeing these legs firsthand, the speaker
However, the phrase “spindly legs that are too hopes to confirm if the negative comments
long for a woman” points more to cultural or are valid or if they are merely unfounded
judgments.

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(i) Why didn’t the mother and Nana believe the (iv) The speaker may feel proud, relieved, or
speaker at first? vindicated, since being chosen as a runner
What does their disbelief suggest about their contradicts the criticisms they’ve faced.
previous assumptions regarding the speaker’s It’s especially meaningful because it challenges
abilities? the narrative that their legs were “too thin”
How does this reaction connect to earlier or “too long”-now those same legs are an
criticisms about the speaker’s legs? asset in running.
(ii) Why does Nana decide to “ask into it (v) This new role strongly challenges their earlier
properly”? doubts by providing tangible evidence of the
In what way does this action reveal her speaker’s athletic ability.
character or role in the family? Some family members, like Nana, might still
(iii) How might Nana’s confirmation-“it was really be cautious or surprised, but the confirmation
true”-change the family’s perception of the Nana brought home should reduce skepticism.
speaker? The extract shows how the speaker’s
(iv) How do you think the speaker feels about achievement forces them to reconsider old
being “one of my school’s runners”? beliefs and could encourage them to see the
Why could this achievement be particularly speaker’s legs-and potential-in a new light.
significant, given the family’s past comments?
(v) Do you think the speaker’s new role as a 16. Read the following extract from the text and
runner challenges the family’s earlier doubts, answer the questions that follow:
or might they still retain some skepticism? “Wearing my school uniform this week has been
Which details in the extract (and the broader very nice. At the parade the first afternoon, it
context) support your view? caught the rays of the sun and shone brighter
than everybody else’s uniform. I’m sure Nana saw
Ans that too, and must have liked it.”
(i) They didn’t believe the speaker initially (i) Why does the speaker find wearing their
because they’ve long held doubts about school uniform “very nice”?
the speaker’s physical abilities-especially How does the uniform’s appearance during
concerning their legs. the parade reinforce this feeling?
This disbelief reflects their earlier assumptions What does it imply about the speaker’s pride
that the speaker couldn’t excel at something or self-image?
requiring speed or agility. (ii) What is the significance of the uniform
It ties back to past criticisms, revealing shining “brighter than everybody else’s”?
that the family-particularly Nana-saw the How could this detail relate to the speaker’s
speaker’s legs as a liability rather than a desire for recognition or acceptance?
potential strength. (iii) Why does the speaker specifically mention
(ii) Nana takes it upon herself to investigate Nana in connection with noticing the uniform?
because she wants solid proof, a reflection of How does this reflect the speaker’s ongoing
her cautious, sometimes skeptical nature. need for approval or validation from Nana?
Her tendency to verify facts on her own terms (iv) How might the speaker’s positive experience
shows she holds a position of authority or with the uniform contrast with earlier doubts
influence in the family, preferring to see the or criticisms they faced?
truth firsthand rather than simply trusting In what ways does this moment suggest a
the speaker’s word. shift in how they view themselves (or how
(iii) When Nana confirms the news, it validates they believe others view them)?
the speaker’s claim and likely reshapes how (v) Do you think the speaker’s assumption
the family views the speaker’s physical that “Nana must have liked it” is based
capabilities. on real evidence, or is it more a hopeful
This could mark a turning point in how they interpretation?
judge the speaker’s legs and overall potential, Which details in the extract support your
opening the door to more pride or acceptance perspective?
rather than doubt.

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

kilometres.” However, it might also reflect outlook, questioning modern ideas or changes
educational gaps or a lifestyle where exact in lifestyle.
measurements are not frequently discussed. The speaker’s confusion highlights a
The extract underscores that the older generational gap-Nana’s reasons might be
children clearly know and complain about rooted in older customs or experiences the
the distance, while the younger speaker or speaker doesn’t share or comprehend.
others may not have learned or needed to (ii) The mother’s disagreement shows she values
learn this concept yet, pointing to broader education and sees it as a necessary part of
circumstances such as limited schooling or the speaker’s growth and opportunities.
lack of everyday use for exact measurements. This stance aligns with her tendency to
defend new or different ideas (like not
worrying excessively about physical traits),
14. Read the following extract from the text and
indicating she wants the speaker to have
answer the questions that follow:
broader possibilities and a brighter future
“School is another thing Nana and my mother
than Nana imagines.
discussed often and appeared to have different
(iii) The speaker’s inability to grasp Nana’s
ideas about. Nana thought it would be a waste
argument could stem from being too young
of time. I never understood what she meant. My
or simply because they don’t see how school
mother seemed to know-and disagreed.”
could possibly be pointless.
(i) Why does Nana consider school a “waste of
Nana’s view conflicts with the speaker’s
time”?
experiences-perhaps the speaker finds school
What might be her possible reasons, given
interesting or sees it as a path to learning,
her perspective on other issues in the story?
making Nana’s dismissal puzzling or outdated.
How does the speaker’s confusion highlight a
(iv) These differing opinions deepen the family’s
gap in understanding between generations?
ongoing tension, with Nana representing
(ii) How does the mother’s disagreement with
tradition and skepticism about formal
Nana over school align with her overall
schooling, while the mother embraces change
attitude and concerns?
and education.
What does this reveal about her hopes or
It mirrors the broader conflict between
priorities for the speaker?
preserving old ways and adapting to newer
(iii) Why might the speaker “never understand
values, highlighting a clash of generational or
what she meant”?
cultural priorities.
In what ways could Nana’s view on school
(v) Many would argue the mother’s stance is
be at odds with the speaker’s experiences or
more forward-looking, offering the speaker
aspirations?
better chances in life through formal learning.
(iv) How do these differing opinions about
Her disagreement with Nana underscores
education create tension or reflect broader
her belief that education can empower the
family conflicts?
speaker rather than waste time.
What does this say about the values held by
Still, Nana may think the speaker’s time is
each character?
better spent learning practical, immediate
(v) Do you think the mother’s stance on education
skills. The extract shows, however, that the
is more beneficial to the speaker’s future, or
mother understands the benefits of schooling
could Nana have valid points?
and actively opposes Nana’s view, indicating
Which details in the extract support your
she sees a future where formal education is
perspective?
key.
Ans
15. Read the following extract from the text and
(i) Nana thinks school is a “waste of time,”
answer the questions that follow:
possibly because she believes practical skills
“When I went home to tell my mother and Nana,
or traditional roles are more important than
they had not believed it at first. So Nana had taken
formal education, reflecting her long-held
it upon herself to go and ‘ask into it properly.’ She
views on how life should be lived.
came home to tell my mother that it was really
Given her critical stance on other matters (like
true. I was one of my school’s runners.”
Adjoa’s legs), she may have a conservative

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legs she dismissed as inadequate can actually Why might the mother’s silence be significant
excel in certain contexts, such as running. in this context?
This shift highlights her acceptance that the (iv) In what ways does this excerpt reflect a
speaker’s abilities defy the limitations she resolution or shift in the speaker’s relationship
once assumed. with the people who doubted them?
(iii) Nana’s reference to legs not having “much How could this moment change perceptions
meat” yet being able to run signifies a change within the family?
from focusing on appearance (thickness, (v) Do you think the speaker’s relief is fully
shape) to appreciating actual function or justified, or is there a possibility of lingering
capability. doubts among the family?
It shows she’s beginning to grasp that Which details in the excerpt and the broader
strength and usefulness aren’t always tied context support your view?
to conventional ideas of what is “normal” or
Ans
ideal in a person’s physique.
(iv) Nana’s tears, combined with the speaker’s (i) The speaker believes it’s “much better this
observation that “grown-ups are so strange,” way” because actually demonstrating their
could mark a new understanding between abilities or achievements has proven more
them. effective than mere words could.
This poignant moment may soften Nana’s “Acting it out” allowed others to see tangible
critical stance and strengthen the speaker’s results rather than dismissing the speaker’s
sense of being valued, opening the door to explanations.
a more supportive relationship where Nana This outcome seems to bring the speaker a
respects the speaker’s uniqueness. sense of relief or triumph, as they have finally
(v) Her emotional response likely contains both shown, rather than told, what they can do.
regret (over having criticized and possibly (ii) The speaker implies that the circumstances
hurt the speaker’s feelings) and pride (seeing leading to their demonstration happened
the speaker’s potential and realizing thin legs naturally or unexpectedly-they did not
“can run”). strategize a plan to prove anything.
The gentle tone-crying softly, muttering This highlights the spontaneity of the event,
repeated reassurances-suggests remorse, but suggesting it was the result of real life
her words also show a spark of pride in the unfolding rather than a staged performance
speaker’s achievements or possibilities. to convince others.
(iii) Previously, the mother might have been vocal
18. Read the following extract from the text and in her concerns or discussions with Nana, but
answer the questions that follow: here, she is struck silent-possibly overwhelmed
“It’s much better this way. To have acted it out to by pride, surprise, or a mixture of both.
show them, although I could not have planned it. Her quiet reaction underscores the impact
As for my mother, she has been speechless as of seeing the speaker’s accomplishments in
usual.” action. It indicates a moment of recognition
(i) Why does the speaker say, “It’s much better or acceptance that surpasses what words can
this way”? convey.
How might “acting it out” have been more (iv) The excerpt suggests the speaker has, at least
convincing than simply talking? in part, overcome the doubts or criticisms
In what way does the speaker’s statement they once faced. This achievement “acted
suggest relief or satisfaction? out” has shifted opinions, as actions are
(ii) Why couldn’t the speaker have planned this harder to refute than speculation.
outcome? Such a moment can reduce tension within
What does this reveal about the nature of the the family and encourage a new respect for
event or accomplishment that proved their the speaker’s capabilities, potentially easing
point? previous conflicts centered on the speaker’s
(iii) How does the mother’s reaction-being perceived shortcomings.
“speechless as usual”-contrast with earlier (v) On the one hand, the speaker’s relief seems
moments of conflict or worry? warranted because they’ve effectively

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Ch 3 : The Girl Who Can

Ans 17. Read the following extract from the text and
(i) The speaker enjoys wearing the school uniform answer the questions that follow:
because it symbolizes belonging and possibly “Oh. Grown-ups are so strange. Nana is right
an achievement-being part of a group or event now carrying me on her knee, and crying softly.
they’re proud of. Muttering, muttering, muttering. That ‘saa’, thin
Seeing it gleam in the sunlight at the parade legs can also be useful... thin legs can also be
enhances that pride, as it draws positive useful... That ‘even though some legs don’t have
attention and underscores the speaker’s sense much meat on them, to carry hips... they can run.
of standing out in a good way. Thin legs can run... then who knows?’”
Together, these details suggest the speaker (i) Why does the speaker find grown-ups “so
feels confident and happy, at least in that strange”?
moment. How does Nana’s behavior in this moment
(ii) By shining more brightly than the others, the contrast with her earlier criticisms of thin
uniform becomes a metaphor for the speaker’s legs?
personal triumph or uniqueness. What does her soft crying and muttering
It may signify the speaker’s longing to be indicate about her state of mind?
seen in a positive light, especially after past (ii) How does Nana’s repeated phrase, “thin legs
criticisms. Having a uniform that literally can also be useful,” represent a shift in her
catches the sun suggests a moment of perspective?
validation or prominence. What does she seem to be acknowledging
(iii) Mentioning Nana indicates the speaker is still about the speaker’s abilities?
keenly aware of her opinion and hopes for her (iii) Why might Nana mention that “even though
approval. some legs don’t have much meat on them, to
Despite prior tensions or doubts Nana has carry hips... they can run”?
expressed, the speaker remains eager for What does this suggest about her newfound
her to notice and appreciate any sign of the view on physical appearance versus function?
speaker’s success or improvement. (iv) In what ways could Nana’s tears and the
(iv) Earlier, the speaker faced skepticism- speaker’s realization-“Grown-ups are so
particularly concerning their physical traits strange”-impact their relationship going
or abilities-but now feels a sense of pride and forward?
belonging. How might this scene be a turning point for
The uniform’s brilliance symbolizes a both Nana and the speaker?
transformation : from being criticized or (v) Do you believe Nana’s emotional response is
doubted to standing out and feeling confident. rooted more in regret, pride, or both?
It shows the speaker’s view of themselves is Which details in the extract support your
evolving positively, and they believe others perspective?
(including Nana) might be reassessing their Ans
judgments.
(v) It’s likely a blend of hope and perception. The (i) The speaker finds grown-ups “strange”
speaker doesn’t provide concrete proof that because their attitudes can change abruptly
Nana liked the uniform but seems confident or seem contradictory.
that this notable, shining moment would Nana’s current tenderness and soft crying
catch Nana’s attention positively. contrast with her previous harsh comments,
Given the speaker’s past longing for Nana’s where she repeatedly criticized thin legs for
approval, it’s plausible they’re interpreting being a liability or “useless.”
Nana’s presumed reaction through an Her tears and quiet repetition suggest a mix
optimistic lens, yet the extract’s focus on the of emotion-perhaps remorse for judging so
gleaming uniform suggests there’s a genuine harshly, or relief in realizing she was wrong,
reason to believe Nana would be proud. and a deep affection for the speaker now
shining through.
(ii) By repeating “thin legs can also be useful,”
Nana demonstrates she’s rethinking her
earlier stance. She recognizes that the very

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CHAPTER
4
THE PEDESTRIAN

INTRODUCTIO dominated by television and technology. He enjoys

peaceful evening walks, which sets him apart from
the rest of society.
Ray Bradbury’s short story “The Pedestrian”
2. The Police Car (Mechanical Authority) : A fully
takes place in 2052–53, when technology
automated, AI-driven vehicle that patrols empty
dominates daily life and most people remain
streets. It enforces conformity by confronting
indoors glued to television screens. Leonard
Leonard for walking at night, showing how
Mead, who wanders the empty streets alone each
technology suppresses individual freedom and
evening, defies this dull routine and cherishes
human connection.
the natural world around him. Written in 1951,
the story warns that unchecked technological
progress can reduce human existence to a passive,
lifeless routine. Mead’s innocent habit of walking
draws the attention of an AI-controlled police
SUMMAR
car, showing how free thought and individuality
1. A Dark Futuristic Setting : The story unfolds in
face grave danger. The story ultimately celebrates
the year 2053 A.D., on a chilly November evening.
open-air living, personal freedom, and humanity’s
Leonard Mead, who loves taking nightly walks,
need for real interaction.
steps out of his home at eight o’clock. Despite
the cold and the darkness, Mead finds peace in
the empty streets and genuinely enjoys moving
ABOUT THE AUTHO through his silent city.
2. Mead’s Nightly Routine : Mead often walks until
midnight, noticing that the houses he passes
Ray Bradbury (1920–2012) was an American
seem like graveyards—dark and lifeless. He wears
author famous for his fantasy and science
sneakers to avoid drawing attention from dogs or
fiction stories. His writing style combined vivid
curious neighbors. Even when the sidewalks are
imagination with a poetic touch. He wrote many
uneven and overgrown, he feels happier outdoors
short story collections, such as The Martian
than he would staying inside.
Chronicles and The Illustrated Man. His novel
3. Observations and Loneliness : While strolling,
Fahrenheit 451 is about a society where books are
Mead imagines how busy the roads are during
banned. Other notable works include Dandelion
the day. At night, however, the quiet makes him
Wine, a poetic tale of a boy’s summer, and
feel as if he is standing in an empty desert. For
Something Wicked This Way Comes, a spooky
ten years, he has roamed these streets without
story about a strange carnival. Bradbury also
encountering another walker. He wonders which
wrote poetry, screenplays, and stage plays. He is
television shows people are watching behind their
widely celebrated for how he explored technology,
closed doors, but nobody emerges to talk or share
censorship, and human wonder alike.
the night air.
4. Encounter with the Police Car : One block from
home, Mead suddenly sees the flash of a police
MAIN CHARACTER car’s light. In a city of three million people, there is
only one patrol vehicle because crime has dropped
so low. An automated voice demands his name,
1. Leonard Mead (Protagonist) : A gentle,
profession, and reasons for being outside. When
introspective man who lives in a futuristic city

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

Mead says he is a writer, the voice dismisses it as 24. Flicker : A brief, wavering light or movement.
“no profession.” 25. Cloverleaf : A type of road interchange shaped
5. Arrest and Accusation : The voice finds his like a four-leaf clover.
harmless walking both strange and incriminating. 26. Scarab : A type of beetle, often symbolic in
It becomes suspicious that Mead does not have ancient Egypt.
a wife to confirm his whereabouts. He is labeled 27. Incense : A substance burned for its fragrant
as having “Regressive Tendencies,” implying that smell.
his preference for simple activities, like walking, is 28. Exhaust : Waste gases expelled from an engine.
old-fashioned or socially unacceptable. 29. Illumination : Light or lighting.
6. Final Scene : The police car orders Mead inside 30. Metallic : Made of or resembling metal.
what feels like a small jail on wheels. As it drives 31. Entranced : Captivated or held spellbound.
away, he notices his own brightly lit house, the 32. Profession : A type of job or occupation.
only source of warmth in an otherwise silent 33. Tomb : A large burial vault for the dead.
neighborhood. The car does not stop, leaving the 34. Phonograph : A device for playing recorded sound.
empty streets behind. The story ends with Mead 35. Crackling : A series of sharp, snapping noises.
taken to the “Psychiatric Center,” showing how 36. Alibi : A claim or evidence of being elsewhere
a mundane habit of walking has made him an during a crime.
outcast in a mechanized, TV-obsessed world. 37. Psychiatric : Relating to mental illness or its
treatment.
38. Regressive : Returning to a less advanced state.
39. Tendencies : An inclination toward a particular
WORD MEANING characteristic or behavior.
40. Antiseptic : A substance that prevents infection
1. Silence : Complete absence of sound. by killing bacteria.
2. Misty : Foggy or cloudy atmosphere.
3. Intersection : A point where two or more roads
meet.
4. Stride : To walk with long, decisive steps. CRITICAL COMMENT
5. Concrete : A hard, solid building material.
6. Frosty : Very cold, with a thin layer of ice. 1. Technology vs. Humanity : Bradbury portrays a
7. Cigar : A tightly rolled bundle of tobacco for future where machines govern society, showing
smoking. how excessive reliance on technology can erode
8. Graveyard : A burial ground or cemetery. human warmth, freedom, and creativity.
9. Glimmer : A faint or small light. 2. Isolation and Conformity : Citizens remain
10. Phantom : A ghostly figure or apparition. indoors, hypnotized by TV, while Mead’s nightly
11. Sneakers : Soft-soled shoes, often used for walking walks highlight individuality and reveal that
or sports. nonconformity is punished by rigid, automated
12. Intermittent : Occurring at irregular intervals. policing.
13. Squads : Small organized groups, often of people 3. Loss of Imagination : With everyone screen-
or animals. obsessed, human creativity declines as reading
14. Crystal : Clear and transparent. and writing fade, suggesting cultural decay
15. Skeletal : Resembling a skeleton, thin or fragile. when genuine thought surrenders to passive
16. Rusty : Having a reddish-brown coating due to entertainment.
oxidation, often implying age or decay. 4. Power of the Individual : Mead’s simple habit of
17. Lamplight : Light emitted by a lamp. walking defies societal rules, demonstrating one
18. Whisper : To speak very softly or quietly. person’s ability to resist cultural pressure and
19. Shadow : A dark area created when an object preserve personal freedom.
blocks light. 5. Symbolic Use of Setting : Empty streets become
20. Plain : A large, flat area of land with few trees. “dry riverbeds,” symbolizing society drained
21. Murders : The unlawful killing of someone. by technology, while Mead’s brightly lit house
22. Quiz : A short test or competition. suggests hope and human warmth amid pervasive
23. Revue : A theatrical show with songs, dances, and darkness.
sketches.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 257

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION The references to frosty air, fallen leaves, and
chilly nights suggest late autumn transitioning
into winter, intensifying the cold isolation Leonard
1. In which year is “The Pedestrian” set? Mead experiences on his walks.
(a) 1953
(b) 2053 A.D. 5. How does Leonard Mead feel when deciding which
(c) 2021 A.D. direction to walk?
(d) 2099 A.D. (a) Anxious and fearful
(b) It makes no difference to him
Ans
(c) He carefully plans his route
(b) 2053 A.D. (d) He always turns north
The story explicitly states that Mr. Leonard Mead Ans
is walking in the year 2053 A.D., highlighting a
(b) It makes no difference to him
future where most people stay indoors, leaving
the city streets eerily empty. Mead wanders aimlessly, selecting any path
spontaneously. Because the streets are deserted,
2. What does Mr. Leonard Mead most love to do on every direction is equally silent, underscoring his
misty November evenings? profound solitude.
(a) Watch television
(b) Go dancing 6. What does Mead compare the dark houses to as
(c) Walk through the silent streets he passes by?
(d) Write novels (a) Busy shopping malls
(b) A graveyard
Ans
(c) Movie theaters
(c) Walk through the silent streets (d) Libraries
Leonard Mead adores strolling outside. He roams Ans
deserted sidewalks, embracing the silence and
(b) A graveyard
fresh air in stark contrast to the technology-
obsessed society indoors. Mead likens these unlit, lifeless homes to a
cemetery. Their flickers of TV glow are reminiscent
3. How does the narrator describe the city at eight of faint firefly lights, suggesting a haunting
o’clock? stillness surrounding him.
(a) Silent and empty
(b) Bustling and busy 7. Why does Mead wear sneakers on his walks?
(c) Brightly lit by street lamps (a) They’re fashionable
(d) Dangerous and chaotic (b) To avoid disturbing dogs and neighbors
(c) They are mandatory in 2053
Ans
(d) He dislikes leather shoes
(a) Silent and empty
Ans
The story repeatedly emphasizes the city’s silence.
(b) To avoid disturbing dogs and neighbors
By eight o’clock, houses appear dark, streets are
empty, and most inhabitants remain indoors, Hard-soled shoes would attract barking dogs and
absorbed by televised entertainment. alert neighbors. Mead prefers silent sneakers,
minimizing any chance of stirring fear or curiosity
4. Which season is hinted at by the description of from the rare onlooker.
“moonlit avenues” and “frosty air”?
(a) Spring 8. Which direction does Mead head on this particular
(b) Summer evening?
(c) Autumn/Winter (a) North, toward the mountains
(d) Rainy season (b) West, toward the hidden sea
(c) East, toward open fields
Ans
(d) South, toward the desert
(c) Autumn/Winter

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

Ans 12. How many police cars are left in the city of three
(b) West, toward the hidden sea million?
(a) Twenty
The text states Mead begins his nightly journey
(b) Five
in a westerly direction. The mention of a “hidden
(c) One
sea” implies he’s walking toward a coastline or
(d) None
large body of water.
Ans
9. How does Mead greet the silent houses as he
walks? (c) One
(a) He ignores them After crime rates dropped, the force reduced
(b) He whispers questions about TV channels from three cars to a single unit. This lone vehicle
(c) He knocks on every door patrols empty streets, reflecting the near-complete
(d) He leaves notes in the mailbox abandonment of public space.
Ans 13. When the police car confronts Mead, how does
(b) He whispers questions about TV channels the car’s voice sound?
(a) Gentle and kind
Mead playfully addresses each house, asking
(b) Friendly and helpful
what’s on television. This highlights how people’s
(c) Metallic and commanding
lives revolve around screens, explaining why
(d) Confused and tired
streets stay desolate in this futuristic society.
Ans
10. Leonard Mead imagines himself in a wintry
Arizona desert. Why? (c) Metallic and commanding
(a) He grew up in Arizona The car emits a “metallic whisper,” an impersonal,
(b) The quiet, empty streets evoke a desert authoritative tone. It underscores the absence of
landscape human officers, reinforcing the eerie automated
(c) He sees cacti everywhere nature of law enforcement in Mead’s world.
(d) He’s reading about deserts while walking
14. What is Leonard Mead’s stated profession?
Ans (a) Policeman
(b) The quiet, empty streets evoke a desert (b) Factory worker
landscape (c) Writer
(d) Teacher
With no wind, no people, and a vast stillness,
Mead envisions himself on a silent desert plain. Ans
This imagination underscores just how devoid of (c) Writer
life the city streets feel.
Mead identifies as a writer. However, in this
society, writing is effectively obsolete because
nobody buys magazines or books anymore,
indicating widespread disinterest in literature.
11. What notable fact does Mead recall about
encountering others on his walks? 15. How does the police car regard Mead’s profession?
(a) He usually meets dozens of people (a) It encourages him to keep writing
(b) He often sees old friends (b) It declares he has no profession
(c) He has never met another person walking (c) It promotes his novels
(d) He only sees delivery drivers (d) It suggests a career change
Ans Ans
(c) He has never met another person walking (b) It declares he has no profession
Over a decade of strolls, Mead never encounters The car’s mechanical voice dismisses “writer” as
fellow pedestrians. This highlights the story’s non-existent. Books and magazines lost relevance
dystopian aspect : people are so isolated indoors to television, so Mead’s occupation is deemed
that the simple act of walking is abandoned. invalid by the automated system.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 259

16. Why is Mead out walking, according to his own Mead’s chilled face reflects his shock and fear
explanation? under the powerful police spotlight. The scrutiny
(a) Looking for food reduces him to a criminal for performing a simple,
(b) Visiting family once-normal pastime.
(c) He walks for air and to see
(d) Searching for lost items 20. What is unusual about the police car’s driver’s
seat?
Ans (a) It has two people inside
(c) He walks for air and to see (b) No one is inside
(c) A robot sits there
Mead tells the police he simply enjoys the fresh
(d) A guard dog sits there
air and scenery, highlighting how personal
freedom and curiosity drive him to roam at night- Ans
an activity now viewed as suspicious. (b) No one is inside
17. What question does the car ask to see if Mead can Mead sees no human officer operating the vehicle.
provide an “alibi”? This driverless, automated car intensifies the
(a) “Do you have children?” story’s futuristic, chilling theme : law enforcement
(b) “Are you married, Mr. Mead?” is mechanized, further alienating individuals.
(c) “Have you called your lawyer?”
(d) “Does anyone know you’re here?” 21. How does Mead describe the back seat of the
police car?
Ans (a) Comfortable and plush
(b) “Are you married, Mr. Mead?” (b) A small black jail cell
(c) Filled with other detainees
The police car inquires about his marital status,
(d) Stocked with cushions
seeking external validation. With no spouse at
home, Mead can’t offer a “proper” excuse for Ans
being outside. (b) A small black jail cell
18. Where does the police car decide to take Leonard As Mead peers in, he sees harsh steel bars and an
Mead? antiseptic odor, reminding him of imprisonment.
(a) Back to his home This claustrophobic setting reveals society’s
(b) Psychiatric Center for Research on Regressive intolerance for even minor nonconformity.
Tendencies
(c) A local jail cell 22. Which of the following best describes the houses
(d) A hospital for treatment at night?
(a) Full of parties
Ans (b) Dark, silent, and tomb-like
(b) Psychiatric Center for Research on Regressive (c) Surrounded by bonfires
Tendencies (d) Crowded with passersby
Walking at night is so abnormal in this society Ans
that officials deem Mead mentally regressive. The (b) Dark, silent, and tomb-like
solitary police car transports him to a facility that
addresses nonconforming behaviors. Bradbury’s text compares these TV-lit homes to
tombs, evoking an image of lifeless residents who
19. Why does Mead’s face feel cold as he insists he’s watch screens rather than interact with neighbors
“just walking”? or the outside world.
(a) He’s frightened by the car’s spotlight
(b) The temperature suddenly drops 23. What does Mead notice about his own house as
(c) He caught a cold earlier the police car drives away?
(d) He’s ashamed to be outdoors (a) It’s locked and dark
(b) He left a light on by mistake
Ans (c) Every window is brightly lit
(a) He’s frightened by the car’s spotlight (d) He no longer recognizes it

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

Ans 27. “Mead felt as if he were ______ in 2053 A.D.,

(c) Every window is brightly lit or as good as alone.”
(a) invisible
Mead’s house is distinctly illuminated, a stark
(b) nobody else
contrast to other dark homes. This shining warmth
(c) the only one
highlights his individuality; ironically, he’s taken
(d) alone
away despite representing life and light.
Ans
24. In the end, what remains in the “chill November
night” after the police car departs with Mead? (d) alone
(a) No sound or motion The text states he is “alone in this world of
(b) Loud sirens 2053 A.D.” He encounters no other pedestrians,
(c) A sudden thunderstorm emphasizing a society that has withdrawn indoors,
(d) A gathering crowd leaving him isolated on silent streets.
Ans 28. “With dark windows everywhere, it was not
(a) No sound or motion unlike a ______ at night.”
(a) playground
Once Mead is driven off, the streets revert to utter
(b) city show
stillness. The emptiness underscores the central
(c) graveyard
theme : society’s disconnection and the absence
(d) deserted inn
of human presence in public spaces.
Ans
(c) graveyard
25. Which theme does the story most strongly Bradbury compares the lifeless homes to a
emphasize through Leonard Mead’s predicament? graveyard, evoking eerie stillness. Flickers of TV
(a) Advancement of modern medicine light mimic “firefly” glows, reinforcing a tomb-
(b) Joy of solitary travel like atmosphere where real human activity has
(c) Loss of individual freedom in a conformist vanished.
society
29. “Long ago he changed to ______ to avoid
(d) The importance of city nightlife
disturbing dogs and neighbors.”
Ans (a) sneakers
(c) Loss of individual freedom in a conformist (b) light boots
society (c) casual shoes
(d) black leather
By punishing Mead for walking and labeling
him “regressive,” the futuristic world suppresses Ans
personal choice and isolates people indoors, (a) sneakers
reflecting the erosion of liberty under oppressive
Wearing quiet footwear prevents barking dogs
conformity.
and prying neighbors from noticing him. This
26. “Mr Leonard Mead most dearly loved to walk at underscores how unusual night-walkers have
______ on a misty evening in November.” become and how even mild noise can attract
(a) eight suspicion.
(b) eight o’clock
30. “On this evening, he began walking in a ______
(c) half past eight
direction, toward the hidden sea.”
(d) eight or nine
(a) northerly
Ans (b) westerly
(a) eight (c) south side
(d) toward sunrise
The opening line specifies Mead enters the silent
city at “eight o’clock” in November. This unusual Ans
daily ritual underscores the emptiness and solitude (b) westerly
of his futuristic environment.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 261

Bradbury notes Mead sets out west. Heading for Ans

the “hidden sea” highlights his aimless, solitary (b) cloverleaf
exploration, a stark contrast to the inactive
This “cloverleaf intersection” used to bustle with
indoor lifestyle dominating this future city.
vehicles, but it’s now eerily quiet. Bradbury
31. “He whispered to every house : ‘What’s up tonight juxtaposes the once-thundering highways with
on ______?” their abandoned state, emphasizing society’s
(a) sports channels retreat from public life.
(b) game shows
35. “Suddenly, a fierce white cone of ______ lit
(c) Channel 4
him up, like a moth.”
(d) Channel twelve
(a) broad lamp
Ans (b) giant lamp
(c) Channel 4 (c) light
(d) siren glow
Mocking the endless TV programming, Mead
addresses the silent houses as if they’re all tuned Ans
in. This illustrates a culture obsessed with screens, (c) light
abandoning real, outdoor life.
The police car’s spotlight entrances Mead like a
32. “If he closed his eyes, he could imagine a windless moth. Its sudden glare personifies the vigilant,
______ desert around him.” automated force policing a city that views a lone
(a) big walker as a suspicious anomaly.
(b) glowing
36. “In a city of three million, there was only one
(c) red rock
______ left.”
(d) Arizona
(a) detective
Ans (b) fire station
(d) Arizona (c) private guard
(d) police car
Comparing the deserted streets to an empty
Arizona plain accentuates the absence of life. Ans
Mead’s solitude is so intense he feels transported (a) police car
to a silent desert with no people.
This drastic reduction-from three to one-
33. “In ten years of walks, Mead never met another highlights a low-crime era where law enforcement
person ______, not once.” hardly seems necessary. Yet Mead’s harmless walk
(a) talking is suspicious enough to draw immediate, rigid
(b) driving intervention from that lone patrol.
(c) walking
(d) calling him
Ans
37. “Asked for his profession, Mead replied, ‘I guess
(c) walking
I’m a ______.’”
Mead’s decade-long habit reveals a society that (a) painter
has forsaken simple outdoor strolling. No one (b) writer
else appears on foot, underscoring the depth of (c) businessman
humanity’s shift to indoor activities. (d) quiet artist
34. “The ______ intersection, once filled with Ans
cars, now lay silent under moon radiance.” (b) writer
(a) busy street
Mead claims he’s a writer, but in this future,
(b) cloverleaf
writing is obsolete since magazines and books
(c) subway stop
no longer sell. His occupation becomes “no
(d) freeway loop
profession” in a TV-dominated culture.

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

(a) 3, 4, 1, 2 52. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
(b) 4, 1, 2, 3 connection between statements (1) and (2) from
(c) 4, 2, 3, 1 Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian:
(d) 1, 2, 4, 3 Statement (1) : Mead switches to sneakers to
avoid canine alarms.
Ans
Statement (2) : Neighbors switch on lights if they
(b) 4, 1, 2, 3 sense footsteps.
The car first labels Mead’s writing worthless (4). (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
It then mentions a wife would help validate him (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(1). Mead is forced into the car (2), discovering (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
it’s driverless when he passes the front seat (3). (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
Ans
50. Select the best chronological arrangement for
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
these final details:
1. The police car heads for the Psychiatric Soft shoes reduce dog barking, while neighbors
Center. turn on lights upon hearing anyone outside. Both
2. Mead spots one house fully lit-“That’s my address nighttime disturbance, but one doesn’t
house.” necessarily trigger the other-they’re separate
3. The back seat feels like a “little black jail.” parts of his caution.
4. The empty streets remain silent throughout
53. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
the night.
(a) 3, 1, 2, 4 connection between statements (1) and (2) from
(b) 2, 4, 3, 1 Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian:
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 Statement (1) : Mead envisions himself in a silent
(d) 3, 2, 4, 1 Arizona desert.
Statement (2) : The city’s emptiness reminds him
Ans of a barren landscape.
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
The car takes Mead to the Psychiatric Center (1).
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
He notices the cage-like back seat (3). Passing his
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
brightly lit home, he says “That’s my house” (2),
leaving empty streets behind (4). Ans
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
51. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
He likens deserted streets to a vast desert, so (1)
connection between statements (1) and (2) from
and (2) describe the same stillness. Both underline
Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian:
how the city’s emptiness transforms his stroll into
Statement (1) : The city’s streets are empty at
a desert-like fantasy.
night, with most homes dark or lit by TV.
Statement (2) : Leonard Mead never meets anyone
54. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
else walking in ten years.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false connection between statements (1) and (2) from
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian:
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) Statement (1) : Mead often picks up leaves,
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other admiring their patterns.
Statement (2) : He whistles to break the nightly
Ans silence.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
Because people stay indoors watching TV, the
(c) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
streets remain deserted. This isolation leads
(d) (1) is the cause for (2)
to Mead’s never encountering another walker,
making (1) directly explain (2). Ans
(c) (1) and (2) are independent of each other

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 263

44. Determine the proper arrangement of these four (c) 2, 4, 1, 3

key actions: (d) 1, 4, 3, 2
1. Mead hears dogs barking if he wore hard
Ans
heels.
2. He switches to sneakers to stroll quietly. (b) 2, 3, 4, 1
3. He sets off down the buckling sidewalk. The police car appears and catches Mead in its
4. He compares flickering lights inside houses to beam (2). He faces the robotic command (3), says
fireflies. he’s a writer (4), then mentally observes that
(a) 3, 4, 1, 2 writing is obsolete in this society (1).
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(c) 2, 1, 4, 3 47. Identify the correct sequence of events:
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2 1. The police car demands, “What are you doing
out?”
Ans
2. Mead admits, “Walking for air and to see.”
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2 3. The car dismisses writing as “no profession.”
Mead begins walking on the cracked concrete 4. Mead is told to “stand still” under the bright
(3), remembers how dogs bark at hard shoes (1), light.
notices flickers behind windows (4), and chooses (a) 4, 1, 2, 3
sneakers to stay unnoticed (2). (b) 4, 3, 1, 2
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
45. Select the option that places these moments in (d) 2, 4, 1, 3
the correct order:
Ans
1. He calls out house by house about TV
channels. (a) 4, 1, 2, 3
2. He imagines comedic or violent shows playing He’s first ordered to freeze under the beam (4).
at 8:30. The car questions why he’s outside (1). Mead
3. He picks up a leaf, admiring its “skeletal responds he’s walking (2). The car then declares
pattern.” him effectively jobless for being a writer (3).
4. He breathes in the crystal-frost air of
November. 48. Choose the option that orders these statements
(a) 4, 3, 1, 2 properly:
(b) 3, 1, 2, 4 1. The car demands Mead’s address.
(c) 1, 2, 4, 3 2. Mead reveals he has no viewing screen.
(d) 2, 3, 4, 1 3. The voice asks if he has an air conditioner.
4. The police car raises suspicion about his non-
Ans
conformity.
(a) 4, 3, 1, 2 (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
First, Mead feels the frosty air (4), then scrutinizes (b) 3, 2, 1, 4
a leaf (3), greets the silent homes by referencing (c) 4, 1, 3, 2
TV (1), and imagines people fixated on comedic (d) 1, 2, 4, 3
or violent night programs (2). Ans
46. Which arrangement best matches the timeline (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
below? The automated officer first demands Mead’s
1. Mead notes that no one buys magazines or location (1), then checks whether he’s comfortable
books anymore. indoors (3), learns he lacks a TV (2), and concludes
2. A solitary car’s blinding spotlight pins him in his behavior is deviant (4).
place.
3. He stands cornered by the car’s metallic 49. Determine the correct order of these developments:
voice. 1. “If you had a wife, you’d have an alibi.”
4. He identifies himself as a writer. 2. Mead is instructed to get in the police car.
(a) 4, 3, 1, 2 3. He sees that nobody occupies the front seat.
(b) 2, 3, 4, 1 4. The policeman states Mead has “no profession.”

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

remain undetected. He wants to avoid dogs, (ii) Describing the cold as cutting the nose and
lights, and curious onlookers, suggesting he lighting up the lungs like a Christmas tree
values solitude and dislikes disturbances. underscores how sharply he feels the chill.
(v) Some might view his routine as simply The comparison to festive lights suggests
practical-he wants a peaceful walk without both brightness and intensity in his chest,
waking anyone. However, it can also be seen capturing the jolt of breathing in icy air.
as a small act of defiance : he goes out on foot This imagery creates a magical yet bracing
while everyone else stays indoors. The text atmosphere-frosty, invigorating, and full of
implies that walking at night is unusual, so crisp, wintry energy.
his quiet strolls may challenge society’s norms (iii) The phrase “the cold light going on and
or expectations. off” indicates a pulsing, rhythmic sensation
as Mead inhales and exhales. It conveys the
4. Read the following extract from the text and idea that each breath sets off a brief, glowing
answer the questions that follow: awareness in his lungs, highlighting how
“On this particular evening he began his journey keenly he experiences the cold evening.
in a westerly direction, toward the hidden sea. (iv) Mead’s detailed awareness of the cold, the
There was a good crystal frost in the air; it cut the direction of his walk, and the imagery of
nose and made the lungs blaze like a Christmas invisible snow point to his strong bond with
tree inside; you could feel the cold light going the natural elements around him. He doesn’t
on and off, all the branches filled with invisible merely travel through the environment; he
snow.” immerses himself in each sensation.
(i) What direction does Leonard Mead choose This particular evening may stand out
for his walk? because he senses something distinctive about
What does “the hidden sea” suggest about the frosty air and the anticipation of heading
his destination? toward a mysterious “hidden sea,” making
How does the “good crystal frost” affect him the walk feel like a small adventure.
physically? (v) Focusing so closely on his physical experiences-
(ii) Why does the text describe the cold as cutting nose, lungs, the feel of the air-shows Mead’s
the nose and making the lungs “blaze like a deep engagement with his surroundings,
Christmas tree”? suggesting a real appreciation for nature’s
What atmosphere does this imagery create? simple wonders.
(iii) What might “the cold light going on and off” At the same time, it could also indicate he
imply about Mead’s sensory experience? finds more connection in the natural world
(iv) In what ways does this scene reflect Mead’s than in the human one, possibly reflecting an
connection with the natural world? underlying sense of detachment from society.
Why might this particular evening feel special The extract’s emphasis on the solitary walk
or different to him? toward a distant sea reinforces that he finds
(v) Does the detailed focus on physical sensations meaning in these quiet, personal moments
show Mead’s deep appreciation for nature, or rather than in communal activities.
might it also hint at a sense of isolation from
society? 5. Read the following extract from the text and
Which details in the extract support your answer the questions that follow:
viewpoint? “The street was silent and long and empty, with
only his shadow moving like the shadow of a hawk
Ans
in mid-country. If he closed his eyes and stood
(i) Leonard Mead sets out walking westward, very still, frozen, he could imagine himself upon
drawn toward what is called the “hidden the center of a plain, a wintry, windless Arizona
sea,” suggesting it is a place both mysterious desert with no house in a thousand miles, and
and out of sight. only dry river beds, the street, for company.”
The “good crystal frost” in the air sharply (i) What does the extract say about the street’s
tingles his nose and chest, giving him a vivid, condition at this moment?
almost exhilarating sense of the cold as it How is Mr. Leonard Mead’s shadow compared
bites his skin and fills his lungs. to that of a hawk?

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Examining leaves satisfies Mead’s curiosity, while Ans

whistling combats quiet loneliness. One doesn’t (d) (1) is the cause for (2)
directly cause the other; each detail highlights
Law enforcement was greatly reduced because
separate facets of his solitary nighttime routine.
society no longer needs much policing. The steep
55. Identify the option that best indicates the correct drop in criminal acts (2) justifies having only one
connection between statements (1) and (2) from patrol car (1) for the entire city.
Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian:
58. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
Statement (1) : Mead greets houses with remarks
connection between statements (1) and (2) from
on TV channels.
Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian:
Statement (2) : He scorns the trivial shows people
Statement (1) : Mead’s walks at night are deemed
obsess over.
suspicious.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Statement (2) : The future culture considers
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
strolling “regressive.”
(c) (1) results from (2)
(a) (1) and (2) have no relation
(d) (1) and (2) express the same idea
(b) (1) is the cause for (2)
Ans (c) (2) is the cause for (1)
(d) (1) and (2) express the same idea (d) (1) is true and (2) is false

Mead’s quips about “cowboys” and “cavalry” mock Ans

the shallow programming. Both statements convey (c) (2) is the cause for (1)
his disapproval of TV-centered life, revealing how Because strolling is viewed as outdated, Mead’s
he simultaneously criticizes and parodies it. harmless activity is alarming to authorities. Thus,
the societal label “regressive” (2) directly causes
56. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
the police to treat his walks as a crime (1).
connection between statements (1) and (2) from
Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian: 59. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
Statement (1) : The sidewalks are overgrown with connection between statements (1) and (2) from
weeds. Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian:
Statement (2) : Driving has replaced walking in Statement (1) : The police car is fully automated,
this society. with no human driver.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false Statement (2) : Leonard Mead sees nobody in the
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false front seat when he’s apprehended.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
Ans (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(d) (1) and (2) are independent
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
Ans
Few people walk, so sidewalks decay beneath
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
vegetation. Meanwhile, cars dominate
transportation. Each statement supports the Because it’s an automated car, Mead finds the
other’s implication : traditional foot travel is front seat empty. No human officer is present, so
virtually abandoned in this future world. the technology itself controls the vehicle, making
(1) the reason for (2).
57. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
connection between statements (1) and (2) from 60. Identify the option that best indicates the correct
Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian: connection between statements (1) and (2) from
Statement (1) : The police force has been cut Ray Bradbury’s short story The Pedestrian:
down to one car. Statement (1) : Mead is taken to the Psychiatric
Statement (2) : Crime is almost nonexistent. Center for Regressive Tendencies.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false Statement (2) : He lacks a viewing screen and is
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false unmarried, raising suspicion.
(c) (1) is unrelated to (2) (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(d) (1) is the cause for (2) (b) (2) is true and (1) is false

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

the habit of sharing his thoughts aloud in an and a ceaseless jockeying for position as the
otherwise silent environment. scarab-beetles, a faint incense puttering from
By mentioning the time, “eight-thirty P.M.,” their exhausts, skimmed homeward to the far
and listing sensational television programs- directions. But now these highways, too, were like
murders, quizzes, comedians-he’s sarcastically streams in a dry season, all stone and bed and
referencing what everyone else might be moon radiance.”
watching indoors instead of walking outside. (i) What is the daytime scene like, according to
These remarks hint at a society that prefers the extract?
staying inside and passively consuming Why does the text compare the cars to
entertainment over being out in the real “scarab-beetles”?
world, reinforcing the contrast between his How does this description emphasize the
lifestyle and theirs. activity and noise during the day?
(ii) The faint sound of laughter could mean (ii) In contrast, how do the highways appear at
someone briefly noticed him, or it might night?
simply be a snippet of a TV show. Hearing it How does the simile “like streams in a dry
makes him wonder if, for a moment, there was season” create an image of emptiness or
any reaction to his presence. stillness?
When he realizes there’s no further response, (iii) What does the change from a busy,
he continues his walk. The lack of real “thunderous” day to a silent night reveal
interaction confirms that the laughter wasn’t about the society’s routines or habits?
meant for him and that people remain distant, (iv) How might the mention of “moon radiance”
behind their walls. affect the mood or atmosphere of the night
(iii) The uneven sidewalk symbolizes the scene?
neglected state of the streets and highlights What does this setting suggest about Mr.
how rarely people walk outside at night. It Leonard Mead’s experience when he walks at
also emphasizes his solitary trek-he has to night?
navigate physical obstacles alone, mirroring (v) Do you think the stark contrast between day
his emotional isolation from everyone else. and night activity underlines Mr. Mead’s
(iv) His stumble and mild surprise show he’s a sense of isolation or freedom?
little on edge, aware of every detail around Which details in the extract support your
him in the empty city. It suggests that, despite opinion?
his calm outward routine, he’s not entirely at
Ans
ease.
The momentary hesitation could reflect (i) During the day, there is a loud surge of cars
deeper uncertainties-he might be questioning filling the roads, gas stations are open, and
whether his nightly walks are safe or if anyone there’s a constant hustle-like insects rustling
in the houses cares enough to notice his small and jockeying for position.
mishaps. The cars are compared to “scarab-beetles” to
(v) He doesn’t truly expect a reply but talks convey the busy, swarming movement and the
aloud out of habit or longing for any human buzzing or humming sound of engines, as well
connection. The fact he gets no real answer as the sense of drivers on a collective mission
underscores his separation from the rest of to get somewhere.
society. This comparison and the mention of exhaust
References to the “murmur of laughter” and as “faint incense” highlight how noisy and
his unanswered questions show he feels cut bustling the daytime atmosphere can be.
off, as though the rest of the town is engaged (ii) At night, these once-busy highways become
in a completely different world-one he can’t deserted and still.
access or doesn’t wish to join. Saying they are “like streams in a dry season”
implies they have lost their flow of traffic-no
7. Read the following extract from the text and cars move across them, just as water leaves a
answer the questions that follow: dried-up riverbed. This imagery underscores
“During the day it was a thunderous surge of the empty, silent nature of the roads in the
cars, the gas stations open, a great insect rustling moonlight.

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(i) Why does he walk for so many hours until his long, reflective walks suggest he seeks
midnight? something more than just exercise-perhaps a
What does he notice about the cottages and sense of freedom or quiet rebellion against a
homes on his way back? closed-off world.
Why does he compare the scene to a
graveyard? 3. Read the following extract from the text and
(ii) Why do you think the windows are dark, and answer the questions that follow:
how does this detail affect the atmosphere? “Mr Leonard Mead would pause, cock his head,
(iii) What do the small “flickers of firefly light” listen, look, and march on, his feet making no
suggest about the people inside the houses? noise on the lumpy walk. For long ago he had
(iv) How does walking alone so late at night wisely changed to sneakers when strolling at
contribute to a feeling of loneliness or night, because the dogs in intermittent squads
isolation? would parallel his journey with barkings if he
(v) Do you think his long walks show a love for wore hard heels, and lights might click on and
solitude, or is there a deeper reason behind faces appear and an entire street be startled by
them? Give a reason for your answer. the passing of a lone figure, himself, in the early
November evening.”
Ans (i) What does Mr Leonard Mead do before
(i) He walks for hours until midnight because moving on?
he enjoys the peace and quiet of the empty Why has he switched to wearing sneakers at
streets, finding comfort in being alone. night?
On his way home, he notices houses with How do dogs and people react if they hear
dark windows, suggesting that people inside hard-heeled shoes?
are either asleep, absent, or shut off from the (ii) How does Mr Mead’s choice of footwear affect
outside world. the atmosphere of his walks?
He compares it to a graveyard because the (iii) Why might people be “startled” by a lone
street feels deserted and silent, making the figure walking at night?
dark houses seem lifeless-like walking among (iv) In what way does this extract highlight Mr
tombstones in a place of no activity. Mead’s desire for a quiet, unnoticed stroll?
(ii) The dark windows give the area a still and (v) Do you think Mr Mead’s nightly routine is
empty feeling, making the scene appear eerie more about practicality, or is it also a subtle
or abandoned. It adds to the atmosphere challenge to the norms of his society? Give a
of isolation because it seems that no one is reason for your answer.
awake or keeping their lights on to welcome Ans
visitors or passersby.
(iii) The faint lights, like little fireflies, imply there (i) He pauses, tilts his head, listens, and looks
is still some small sign of life inside, perhaps around before continuing.
from televisions or tiny lamps. These lights He wears sneakers so he can walk quietly and
are very weak compared to the darkness, avoid drawing attention.
showing that people are present but hidden If he wore hard heels, dogs would bark and
away, not interacting with the outside world. people might turn on their lights, alarmed by
(iv) Being alone so late makes everything around the sound of footsteps at night.
him feel distant and quiet, which can intensify (ii) His choice of silent footwear makes his walks
any feelings of loneliness. With no one else on peaceful and discreet. It allows him to move
the streets, he might sense that he’s the only without causing a stir, enhancing the calm,
person awake and moving about, heightening almost secretive feeling of wandering the
the mood of being cut off from society. empty streets.
(v) Some might see his walks as a simple love of (iii) In a society where few people walk at
solitude-he enjoys the peaceful atmosphere of night, seeing someone alone outside can be
the sleeping city. However, it could also hint surprising or unsettling. People are not used
at deeper feelings of separation from society, to solitary figures passing by, so it catches
as if he’s resisting the way everyone else lives them off guard.
behind dark windows. The empty streets and (iv) The passage shows Mr Mead’s careful
strategy-quiet sneakers and alert pauses-to

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

(c) (1) is the cause for (2) emptiest, offering him solitude and calm.
(d) (2) is the cause for (1) “Misty evening” evokes a sense of mystery and
stillness, while “buckling concrete” suggests
Ans
an aging or neglected urban environment that
(d) (2) is the cause for (1) heightens the mood of quiet isolation.
His lifestyle-no TV, no spouse-makes him an outlier (ii) “Hands in pockets” implies a relaxed,
in this conformist society. These traits trigger the unhurried demeanor-Mead is strolling rather
police’s conclusion that he is “regressive,” leading than rushing, and he feels comfortable moving
to his forced commitment. through the empty streets at his leisure.
The city is silent, perhaps because most
people are indoors, possibly absorbed in
other pursuits. The misty hour and the lack
EXTRACT BASED QUESTION of activity reinforce the sense that the city
has become eerily deserted.
(iii) His passion for walking shows he values
1. Read the following extract from the text and freedom, introspection, and a direct
answer the questions that follow: connection with his surroundings.
“To enter out into that silence that was the city at It highlights his independence and willingness
eight o’clock of a misty evening in November, to to engage with the world on his own terms,
put your feet upon that buckling concrete walk, suggesting a thoughtful, reflective nature.
to step over grassy seams and make your way, (iv) The late hour, the gloomy November weather,
hands in pockets, through the silences, that was and the deserted sidewalks all contribute
what Mr Leonard Mead most dearly loved to do.” to an atmosphere of quiet solitude. These
(i) What time and place are described in this elements seem to encourage Mead’s reflective
extract? state of mind, making his walks feel almost
Why does Leonard Mead choose to go out at meditative.
this hour? Referring to multiple “silences” underscores
How do the words “misty evening” and that not only is the city physically empty, but
“buckling concrete” help create a particular there may also be a deeper social or cultural
atmosphere? emptiness-people have retreated from the
(ii) What might the phrase “hands in pockets” public space.
suggest about Mead’s attitude or state of (v) Some might see Mead’s routine as a simple
mind? personal habit-he simply loves the calm of the
Why do you think the city is so silent? evening. However, it can also be interpreted
(iii) What does Mead’s love of walking through the as a quiet act of defiance, especially if others
deserted streets reveal about his character? have stopped venturing out for their own
(iv) How does the setting (time, season, reasons.
and environment) influence Mead’s feelings The details in the extract-an empty, silent
and actions? city, and Mead’s deliberate choice to walk
What does the repeated reference to “silences” despite the emptiness-suggest he is doing
imply about the larger world he lives in? something unusual or even against the norm,
(v) Do you think Mead’s nightly walks are implying a subtle pushback against a society
simply a personal preference or a subtle act that no longer values such solitary pastimes.
of rebellion?
Which details in the extract support your 2. Read the following extract from the text and
viewpoint? answer the questions that follow:
“Sometimes he would walk for hours and miles
Ans
and return only at midnight to his house. And
(i) The extract describes a city at eight o’clock on his way he would see the cottages and homes
on a misty November evening, setting a quiet, with their dark windows, and it was not unequal
almost eerie scene. to walking through a graveyard where only the
Leonard Mead goes out at this hour likely faintest glimmers of firefly light appeared in
because it’s when the streets are at their flickers behind the windows.”

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Why might this comparison give a sense of Describing “only dry river beds, the street, for
isolation or freedom? company” shows that he finds companionship
(ii) What does Mr. Mead imagine when he closes in the road itself rather than in other
his eyes? humans. It suggests he has formed a bond
How does picturing a “wintry, windless with the silent environment rather than with
Arizona desert” add to the mood of loneliness? a bustling community.
(iii) What role does the empty street play in (v) His vivid imagination could serve as a mental
showing Mr. Mead’s inner feelings? escape, transforming an ordinary street into
(iv) How do you think the idea of “no house in a a grand desert landscape. Yet it also reveals
thousand miles” reflects society’s absence in how he appreciates the beauty of emptiness-
Mr. Mead’s life? taking comfort in the quiet and space around
What does “only dry river beds, the street, him.
for company” suggest about his relationship Phrases like “no house in a thousand miles”
with his surroundings? and “like the shadow of a hawk in mid-
(v) Do you see Mr. Mead’s vivid imagination as country” highlight his creative vision, showing
a form of escape or a way to find beauty in how he reshapes a lonely street into a place of
emptiness? personal freedom and reflective wonder.
Which details in the extract support your
view? 6. Read the following extract from the text and
Ans answer the questions that follow:
“‘What is it now?’ he asked the houses, noticing
(i) The street is completely silent, long, and his wrist watch. Eight-thirty P.M.? Time for a
empty-no people, no cars, nothing moving dozen assorted murders? A quiz? A revue? A
except Mr. Mead’s own shadow. comedian falling off the stage?’
His shadow is compared to a hawk’s shadow in Was that a murmur of laughter from within a
the open countryside, implying a lone figure moon-white house? He hesitated, but went on
gliding or passing through a vast, unoccupied when nothing more happened. He stumbled over
space. a particularly uneven section of sidewalk.”
This hawk-like image can create a sense of (i) Why does he speak directly to the houses?
freedom because hawks soar over empty Why does he mention the time (eight-thirty
lands, yet it also highlights how solitary his P.M.) and things like “a dozen assorted
walk is, emphasizing both independence and murders” or “a quiz”?
isolation. How do these comments reflect the society or
(ii) When Mr. Mead closes his eyes, he pictures culture he believes is inside those houses?
himself in the center of a vast, barren plain- (ii) What makes him pause upon hearing a
like a cold Arizona desert. possible murmur of laughter?
Thinking of a “wintry, windless Arizona Why does he continue walking when nothing
desert” magnifies the atmosphere of else happens?
loneliness, suggesting a place where there is (iii) How does the uneven sidewalk add to the
no sign of life or human presence, just endless sense of his solitary or uncertain journey?
open space. (iv) What does his reaction to stumbling suggest
(iii) The deserted street acts almost like a reflection about his state of mind while walking alone?
of Mr. Mead’s inner state. By showing us he In what way might his momentary hesitation
is alone on this silent path, it underscores his reveal deeper worries or frustrations?
separation from a society that seems to have (v) Do you think he genuinely expects the houses
disappeared into their homes. The emptiness (or the people within) to respond?
around him parallels his sense of being the Which details in the extract show that he
only person who still values wandering freely. feels disconnected from the rest of the town?
(iv) Picturing “no house in a thousand miles”
symbolizes how disconnected he is from other Ans
people. In a society where almost everyone (i) He speaks to the houses almost as if they are
stays inside, it feels as though he’s the only alive because no actual people are around
inhabitant of a deserted land. to talk to. This shows his deep loneliness or

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

with bars. It smelled of riveted steel. It smelled bare surfaces point more toward creating fear
of harsh antiseptic; it smelled too clean and hard than mere practicality.
and metallic. There was nothing soft there.”
(i) Why does Mead call it “a little cell” or “a 13. Read the following extract from the text and
little black jail”? answer the questions that follow:
What is the significance of the bars inside the “The car hesitated, or rather gave a faint whirring
car? click, as if information, somewhere, was dropping
How do the mentions of “harsh antiseptic” card by punch-slotted card under electric eyes. ‘To
and “riveted steel” create an unsettling the Psychiatric Center for Research on Regressive
feeling? Tendencies.’”
(ii) Why might the back seat smell “too clean (i) What does it mean that the car “hesitated”
and hard and metallic”? and made a “faint whirring click”?
(iii) What does describing the seat as having Why might it be processing “information …
“nothing soft” suggest about the nature of dropping card by punch-slotted card under
this police car? electric eyes”?
(iv) In what way does the description of the back How does this detail reflect the technology
seat reflect the society’s approach to law level in this society?
enforcement? (ii) Why does the car announce “To the
(v) Do you think this stark, “jail-like” design Psychiatric Center for Research on Regressive
aims to intimidate or is it simply functional? Tendencies”?
Give a reason for your opinion. (iii) What does sending someone to a “Psychiatric
Center” for “Regressive Tendencies” imply
Ans about this society’s view of certain behaviors?
(i) Mead calls it “a little cell” or “a little black (iv) How might this moment affect Mr. Leonard
jail” because it looks and feels like a prison Mead’s feelings about his nightly walks or
compartment, cramped and confining. personal freedom?
The bars suggest that anyone placed there (v) Do you think labeling his actions as
is treated like a prisoner, emphasizing strict “regressive” is fair, or does it show a narrow,
control. controlling mindset?
Words like “harsh antiseptic” and “riveted Give a reason for your opinion.
steel” imply a cold, clinical atmosphere, Ans
which makes the space seem unfriendly and
oppressive. (i) The car “hesitated” with a mechanical
(ii) The strong, “metallic” and overly clean sound, suggesting it was analyzing data or
smell could indicate that the car is regularly instructions before acting.
sterilized to remove any trace of previous The mention of punch cards and “electric
occupants, reinforcing its role as a mobile eyes” implies an advanced but somewhat
jail. It suggests an environment designed for rigid or bureaucratic system that processes
detainment rather than comfort. information mechanically.
(iii) Having “nothing soft” points to a lack of This glimpse of technology shows a society
empathy or leniency. It shows that this police that relies heavily on automated decisions
car is built to restrain and confine, not to rather than human judgment, making the
accommodate someone humanely. police car an extension of a computerized
(iv) It reflects a law enforcement style that authority.
prioritizes strictness and efficiency over (ii) The car states its destination as “the
compassion. By making the back seat resemble Psychiatric Center for Research on Regressive
a locked cell, it conveys a society focused on Tendencies” because, in this world, someone
control rather than rehabilitation or comfort. who behaves outside the norm (like walking
(v) Some might see it as purely functional-easy to at night) is viewed as having outdated or
clean and secure. deviant habits.
Others would argue it’s meant to intimidate, It suggests that such behavior is considered
as the design clearly discourages any sense of abnormal enough to warrant psychiatric
ease or humanity. The strong smell, bars, and evaluation, rather than merely a personal
choice.

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(iii) The shift from a thunderous, crowded day Ans

to a quiet, empty night suggests that people (i) It seems surprising because three million
operate on a strict schedule-once day turns people is a huge population, so you would
to evening, everyone goes inside, leaving expect more police cars.
public spaces deserted. It indicates a society The change happened a year ago, in 2052,
that retreats to private routines as soon as during an election-which could mean politics
daylight ends. played a role in cutting the police force.
(iv) “Moon radiance” adds a gentle, almost Calling it a “rare, incredible thing” shows
ethereal glow, contrasting with the harsh he’s amazed or concerned that such a big city
noise of daytime traffic. It contributes to a has so little active policing.
tranquil, slightly mysterious atmosphere. (ii) Perhaps the city believes there isn’t much
For Mr. Mead, walking through these moonlit crime anymore, or it relies on other methods
highways feels vastly different from the daytime (like technology) instead of regular patrols.
chaos. This soothing, quiet setting might It could also be a cost-cutting or political
enhance his sense of solitude and reflection. decision.
(v) The dramatic day-night difference can indeed (iii) Some people might worry that help would be
emphasize Mr. Mead’s isolation-he chooses to slow if they needed it. Others might feel safe
walk when everyone else is gone, leaving him if they think no crime exists and the single
alone with silent roads. On the other hand, it car is enough.
could also represent a kind of freedom, as he Either way, it changes how secure people feel
has all that space to himself. at night.
Words like “thunderous,” “ceaseless (iv) Because there is only one police car, running
jockeying,” and then “like streams in a dry into it would be rare-especially late in the
season” demonstrate how the bustling energy evening.
of daylight dissolves into stillness, reinforcing For Leonard Mead, it makes any police
his unique experience of solitude or escape encounter unusual and perhaps more
from the busy world. intimidating, since he’s almost alone outside.
(v) Some might say it shows the city is very
8. Read the following extract from the text and peaceful, with little need for police patrols.
answer the questions that follow: Others could argue it’s neglectful, since
“The police, of course, but what a rare, incredible having only one car seems risky if a serious
thing; in a city of three million, there was only crime occurs.
one police car left, wasn’t that correct? Ever since The text highlights the speaker’s astonishment,
a year ago, 2052, the election year, the force had suggesting it is not a normal situation for
been cut down from three cars to one.” such a large population.
(i) Why does the speaker think it is “incredible”
to have just one police car in such a large city?
When did this reduction happen, and why
might the election year be important?
How does the speaker’s choice of words (“rare, 9. Read the following extract from the text and
incredible thing”) show his feelings? answer the questions that follow:
(ii) Why might the city decide it needs only one “‘Your name?’ said the police car in a metallic
police car? whisper. He couldn’t see the men in it for the
(iii) How could having just one police car affect bright light in his eyes.
people’s sense of safety? ‘Leonard Mead,’ he said.
(iv) Why would encountering this police car be ‘Speak up!’
unusual for someone walking at night? ‘Leonard Mead!’
How might this situation affect Leonard ‘Business or profession?’
Mead’s experience? ‘I guess you’d call me a writer.’
(v) Do you think having only one police car ‘No profession,’ said the police car, as if talking
suggests a very safe society or a neglect of to itself. The light held him fixed, like a museum
law enforcement? specimen, needle thrust through chest.
Give a reason for your opinion. ‘You might say that,’ said Mr Mead.”

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

38. “The metallic voice demanded to know why he (a) 4, 1, 3, 2

was out ______.” (b) 2, 3, 4, 1
(a) buying food (c) 4, 2, 1, 3
(b) having fun (d) 3, 1, 4, 2
(c) walking
Ans
(d) skipping curfew
(c) 4, 2, 1, 3
Ans
First, Mead starts his walk at eight (4), then
(c) walking heads west (2), soon likens silent houses to a
Mead’s innocent reason for being outdoors graveyard (1), and finally examines a leaf while
bewilders the automated police. Strolling for strolling under sporadic streetlights (3).
fresh air is so abnormal that the system believes
it indicates suspicious or regressive behavior. 42. Which sequence reflects the proper progression of
these moments?
39. “The police questioned if he owned a ______ 1. Mead imagines an Arizona desert.
in his home to see with.” 2. He whispers greetings to the vacant houses.
(a) phone 3. He hears a faint murmur of laughter but
(b) big window continues walking.
(c) alarm clock 4. He recalls never meeting another pedestrian
(d) viewing screen in ten years.
(a) 2, 3, 1, 4
Ans
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3
(d) viewing screen (c) 2, 1, 3, 4
Televisions-or “viewing screens”-are standard in (d) 3, 4, 2, 1
every house, so lacking one marks Mead as odd. Ans
This further cements his status as an outsider in
a screen-centric, indoor-oriented society. (a) 2, 3, 1, 4
Mead addresses the silent homes (2), hears
40. “Eventually, he was taken to the ______ for possible laughter yet moves on (3), envisions a
Regressive Tendencies.” windless desert (1), and finally notes he’s never
(a) local jail encountered anyone else on foot in a decade (4).
(b) Psychiatric Center
(c) big courthouse 43. Pick the correct chronological order for the
(d) federal prison following statements:
1. Mead stumbles over a sidewalk that’s
Ans
disappearing under grass.
(b) Psychiatric Center 2. He pauses to reflect on how deserted the
Bradbury shows that routine walks are deemed streets remain.
deviant in this dystopian future. Mead’s fate 3. He closes his eyes and imagines himself alone
at the Psychiatric Center illustrates the story’s on a vast plain.
core warning about conformity suppressing free 4. He checks his wristwatch and remarks on
thought. typical nightly TV shows.
(a) 4, 3, 2, 1
41. Choose the option that orders these events (b) 3, 4, 1, 2
correctly: (c) 4, 2, 3, 1
1. Leonard Mead notices the dark windows and (d) 2, 3, 4, 1
compares them to a graveyard.
Ans
2. He decides to walk westward, toward the
hidden sea. (c) 4, 2, 3, 1
3. He picks up and inspects a leaf under a He first notices it’s 8:30 and jokes about TV (4),
lamplight. then observes the empty streets (2), pictures
4. He puts his hands in his pockets and sets off an endless desert (3), and finally trips on the
at eight o’clock. overgrown sidewalk (1).

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 273

the inhabitants are sealed off from active (v) Do you think the self-operating police car
engagement with the outside world. represents an advanced, efficient system or a
The faint glow of television light reinforces dehumanized society?
this atmosphere; it barely illuminates the Which details in the extract support your
rooms, implying the people within are in a view?
dim, almost sepulchral environment instead
Ans
of a lively home.
(iii) Describing people as “like the dead” under a (i) He walks “like a man suddenly drunk” because
light that “never really touches them” paints he’s been forcibly moved or overwhelmed by
an image of passive, unresponsive figures. the situation. Perhaps he’s disoriented by
They are physically present but emotionally being confronted, then released, and now feels
and mentally disengaged from both each off-balance.
other and their surroundings. It underscores He looks inside the car out of both curiosity
the hollow nature of their nightly routines. and apprehension, wanting to see who-or
(iv) This snapshot of nighttime activity shows what-has been addressing him.
a society that has turned away from active By seeing no one in the front seat, he confirms
pursuits like reading and writing, favoring his suspicion that the vehicle operates without
the passive consumption of televised a human driver, reflecting a high level of
entertainment. automation.
For creative individuals-like someone who (ii) His careful inspection of the car and the
might once have been a writer-this world description of his gait indicate genuine
offers little support or audience, leading to a astonishment. Despite suspecting an
sense of isolation and futility. automated vehicle, actually witnessing it-a
(v) Referring to houses as “tombs” and occupants police car with no human occupants-startles
as “dead” may initially seem dramatic, but in him, underscoring the strangeness of the
context it reflects the near-complete absence encounter.
of liveliness or genuine interaction. (iii) The empty front seat strongly implies that
Phrases such as “the tombs, ill-lit by television technology has replaced human roles, at least
light” and “the people sat like the dead” in routine policing. It highlights a society
reinforce an image of a society drained of that relies on machines to maintain order,
vigor and deep connection, lending credibility reducing direct human involvement.
to the portrayal of a lifeless, disengaged world. (iv) Realizing there is no person in control of
the car amplifies his solitude in an already
deserted environment. The absence of any
human presence behind authority or law
enforcement leaves him feeling even more
11. Read the following extract from the text and
alone and unsettled.
answer the questions that follow:
(v) Some might see the self-driving police car as
“He walked like a man suddenly drunk. As he
a sign of technological efficiency, capable of
passed the front window of the car he looked in.
patrolling without human error or fatigue.
As he had expected, there was no one in the front
Others could argue it exemplifies a sterile,
seat, no one in the car at all.”
impersonal world where human elements-
(i) Why does he walk “like a man suddenly
compassion, dialogue, connection-have been
drunk”?
stripped away.
Why does he look inside the car?
The extract (showing his drunken-like
What does finding no one in the front seat
walk, the silent car, and his bewilderment)
reveal about the police car?
supports the idea that this advanced system
(ii) How does his reaction to the empty car show
feels dehumanizing, intensifying his sense of
his surprise or curiosity?
alienation.
(iii) What does the absence of any driver suggest
about the level of automation or technology 12. Read the following extract from the text and
in this society? answer the questions that follow:
(iv) In what way does this moment underscore his “He put his hand to the door and peered into the
sense of isolation or unease? back seat, which was a little cell, a little black jail

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(i) Why does the police car speak in a “metallic However, it also shows how narrowly the
whisper”? society defines productivity, demeaning
Why can’t Mr Mead see the people inside? creativity and suggesting a very limited view
How does the question about “business or of what is “useful.” The extract supports
profession” set the tone for this interaction? the idea that such a dismissal is unfair and
(ii) Why does Mr Mead hesitate when he says reflects a restrictive social mindset.
he’s “a writer,” and why does the car call it
“No profession”? 10. Read the following extract from the text and
(iii) How does the image of Mr Mead “like a answer the questions that follow:
museum specimen” make him feel? “He hadn’t written in years. Magazines and
(iv) In what way does this scene reflect the books didn’t sell anymore. Everything went on
society’s view of individual creativity or non- in the tomb-like houses at night now, he thought,
conforming roles? continuing his fancy. The tombs, ill-lit by television
(v) Do you think calling writing “no profession” is light, where the people sat like the dead, the gray
a fair assessment, or does it show the narrow or multi-colored lights touching their faces, but
values of this society? never really touching them.”
Give a reason for your answer. (i) Why hasn’t he written in years?
According to the extract, why don’t magazines
Ans and books sell anymore?
(i) The police car’s “metallic whisper” sounds What does this imply about the public’s
impersonal and machine-like, creating an changing interests?
intimidating, cold tone. (ii) What does he mean by describing the houses
Mr Mead is blinded by the bright light, so he as “tomb-like”?
cannot see who (if anyone) is actually inside. How does the dim television light contribute
Asking for his “business or profession” right to this impression?
away makes the encounter feel official and (iii) What is the effect of saying people “sat like
probing, as if personal interests are suspicious the dead” with light that never really touches
unless they fit certain norms. them?
(ii) Mr Mead says he’s a writer, but he isn’t fully (iv) In what ways does this scene illustrate a
confident because he knows writing is no larger societal shift away from reading?
longer valued or recognized as a real job in How might this environment affect creative
his society. individuals like the speaker?
The police car dismissing it as “No profession” (v) Do you think calling the houses “tombs”
shows that creative or intellectual work is not and comparing the people to the dead is an
considered valid or practical by this futuristic exaggeration or an accurate reflection of this
system. society?
(iii) Comparing Mr Mead to a “museum specimen” Which details in the extract support your
pinned in place indicates he feels trapped and viewpoint?
scrutinized. Ans
It suggests he’s viewed as an oddity under
examination rather than a person with (i) He hasn’t written for years because there is
freedom and rights. no market for his work : people no longer buy
(iv) By discrediting writing and treating Mead magazines or books.
as suspicious, the authorities imply that The extract states that these forms of reading
individual creativity is either useless or material have fallen out of favor, which
deviant. suggests an overall shift in society’s habits-
This reveals a world that prizes only fewer readers means a writer’s output simply
utilitarian roles, leaving little space for isn’t in demand.
personal expression or artistry. This changing interest indicates that the
(v) Some might argue that labeling writing as population has gravitated toward other forms
“no profession” simply matches the society’s of entertainment, presumably television or
priorities-maybe they only value practical or similar passive media.
technical work. (ii) Calling the houses “tomb-like” conveys a
sense of lifelessness and enclosure, as though

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 275

(iii) Sending a person to a psychiatric facility Ans

for “Regressive Tendencies” indicates that (i) Most of the city’s houses are dark at night,
any deviation from accepted routines or indicating that people either keep lights off or
technology-dependent lifestyles is labeled as stay in dimly lit rooms.
backwards or unhealthy. The speaker notices one house with every
It shows a society that pathologizes personal window aglow, which stands out dramatically
freedoms and simple activities, treating in a sea of darkness.
them as mental issues rather than harmless The description “square and warm in the cool
preferences. darkness” paints a vivid image : a bright,
(iv) Realizing that his harmless walks lead to inviting beacon surrounded by nighttime
being forcibly taken to a psychiatric center chill.
can shock Mr. Mead. (ii) Because nearly all other homes remain dark,
It likely makes him feel threatened or seeing a brightly lit residence is extraordinary.
disillusioned, knowing that his basic freedom- It breaks the pattern of silent, shadowy
to walk and enjoy the quiet streets-places streets, making this house a rare sight in a
him at odds with an automated, controlling place where people typically don’t display
system. much outward brightness at night.
(v) Some may argue the label “regressive” is (iii) The single lit house sharply contrasts with the
unreasonable and reflects a narrow, oppressive darkened surroundings, symbolizing liveliness
culture that punishes anything nonconformist. or openness in a city that otherwise appears
Others might say the society truly believes shut down or unwelcoming after dark.
it must maintain a certain order, viewing (iv) By having every window illuminated, the
solitary walks as a sign of withdrawing from house might represent someone who isn’t
communal norms. adhering to the norm of staying low-key.
Given the context, it strongly appears that Perhaps it’s occupied by individuals who still
calling a peaceful pastime “regressive” shows enjoy openness, activity, or community, unlike
a controlling mindset, where even benign neighbors who keep their windows dark.
independence is suspect. (v) Some readers might see a fully illuminated
house as a sign of warmth, comfort, and
14. Read the following extract from the text and vitality-a place that hasn’t succumbed to the
answer the questions that follow: overall inactivity.
“They passed one house on one street a moment Others might argue it draws attention and
later, one house in an entire city of houses that could be seen as suspicious or reckless in a
were dark, but this one particular house had all society where most houses remain dark.
of its electric lights brightly lit, every window a Given the rest of the city’s darkness, it may
loud yellow illumination, square and warm in the invite scrutiny from neighbors or authorities,
cool darkness.” highlighting its uniqueness and potential risk.
(i) What do we learn about the overall condition
of the city’s houses at night? 15. Read the following extract from the text and
Why does the speaker highlight this one answer the questions that follow:
house with all its lights on? “The car moved down the empty riverbed streets
How does the phrase “square and warm in the and off away, leaving the empty streets with the
cool darkness” help us visualize it? empty sidewalks, and no sound and no motion all
(ii) Why might having brightly lit windows be so the rest of the chill November night.”
unusual in this city? (i) What does calling the streets “empty riverbed
(iii) How does this single lit house contrast with streets” suggest about their appearance or
the rest of the neighborhood or city? use?
(iv) In what way could this house represent a Why might the sidewalks also be empty?
different or “non-conforming” kind of lifestyle? How does the phrase “no sound and no motion
(v) Do you think a fully illuminated house all the rest of the chill November night” help
suggests a sense of life and warmth, or does it you picture the scene?
attract unwanted attention in this setting? (ii) How do these conditions reflect the overall
Give a reason for your opinion. atmosphere of the city at night?

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Ch 4 : The Pedestrian

(iii) What effect might such quiet, deserted streets

have on someone who is walking late at night?
(iv) In what ways does this description underscore
themes of solitude or isolation?
(v) Do you think the empty streets at night
convey a sense of calm and peace, or do they
suggest something more unsettling?
Give a reason for your answer.
Ans
(i) Describing them as “empty riverbed streets”
implies they are dry, deserted, and silent-like
a waterless riverbed, lacking life or flow.
The sidewalks are similarly empty because
people stay indoors, leaving the city vacant
and quiet at night.
Saying there is “no sound and no motion” for
the rest of the chilly November evening paints
a stark picture of utter stillness, reinforcing
how lonely and inactive the environment
becomes.
(ii) These conditions emphasize a hush that falls
over the city after dark. No one is outside,
and everything feels lifeless, contributing to
an almost eerie or desolate atmosphere.
(iii) Walking in such emptiness could heighten a
person’s sense of solitude, making them feel
either peacefully alone or unsettled by the
lack of any human presence.
(iv) By highlighting that nothing moves or makes
a sound, the passage stresses how isolated this
world has become. The absence of activity
and interaction underscores the theme of
aloneness.
(v) Some might see it as calm-no disturbances,
just quiet streets.
Others could find it unnerving, as total silence
and emptiness can suggest a deeper sense of
desolation or abandonment.
The phrase “no sound and no motion” leans
toward an unsettling stillness, hinting that
what should be lively is instead void of life.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 277

CHAPTER
5
THE LAST LESSON

INTRODUCTIO 2. M. Hamel (Teacher) : A dedicated French teacher

dismissed because Prussian authorities ban French
lessons in Alsace. Despite leaving soon, he teaches
Alphonse Daudet’s short story “The Last Lesson”
sincerely, showing deep love for his language.
unfolds in 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War,
when Bismarck’s army took control of France. 3. Old Hauser (Villager) : An elderly townsman who
Under this new regime, provinces like Lorraine attends the last lesson in sorrow. represents older
and Alsace were forced to discontinue teaching villagers who regret not learning French earlier
French. As a result, M. Hamel, a dedicated French and respect M. Hamel’s service.
teacher, was dismissed from his position. Despite
this, he delivered his final lesson with sincere
devotion, making his student Little Franz realize
the true worth of their language and culture.
SUMMAR
Daudet’s narrative powerfully illustrates how the
loss of one’s native tongue can suddenly reveal its 1. A Late Start and Strange Happenings : Little
immense importance in everyday life. Franz begins his day later than usual, dreading
a scolding from M. Hamel for not knowing
participles. On his way, he notices a crowd at
the bulletin-board, a place known for posting all
ABOUT THE AUTHO sorts of grim updates. Despite the bright morning
sun and birds singing, he resists temptation and
Alphonse Daudet (1840–1897) was a French hurries to school, worried about disappointing his
novelist and story writer known for capturing the teacher.
complexities and joys of ordinary people. Born 2. Silence in the Classroom : Typically, the school
on May 13, 1840, in France, he found success in echoes with slamming desk-lids, loud recitations,
portraying realistic characters in his works, shining and the firm tap of M. Hamel’s ruler. Today,
a light on human sufferings and relationships. His though, everything is still and serious. M. Hamel
insights into life and society made him a significant wears his finest clothes, and several village elders
voice in French literature. Daudet’s major works, occupy the back rows, creating an atmosphere
such as Lettres de mon moulin, Le Petit Chose, of solemnity. Franz senses something unusual is
and Tartarin de Tarascon, reflect the culture and unfolding.
landscape of southern France, while also revealing 3. A Shocking Announcement : M. Hamel declares
psychological perspectives. He died on December that this will be their final French lesson, as
16, 1897, leaving an impact on readers worldwide. Berlin has ordered the use of German in Alsace
and Lorraine. The students and villagers stand
stunned, realizing how dearly they treasure their
language, which is now threatened.
MAIN CHARACTER 4. Regret for Missed Learning : Recalling his time
spent chasing birds or skating instead of studying,
1. Little Franz (Student) : A young boy who arrives Franz feels guilty for neglecting French. Older
late and fears M. Hamel’s scolding. When he villagers also lament not attending school more
learns it is the final French lesson, he realizes the often. Together, they understand they have taken
true value of his language. their native tongue for granted.

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Ch 5 : The Last Lesson

5. Honoring the French Language : M. Hamel, 27. Scratch : A scraping sound or mark.
visibly moved, teaches with exceptional patience, 28. Tracing : Following the outline or path of
describing French as the “clearest and most something.
logical” language. Everyone concentrates deeply 29. Cooed : Made soft murmuring sounds, like
on grammar and writing, aware this might be pigeons.
their last chance to learn in their mother tongue. 30. Twined : Wound or wrapped around something.
6. An Emotional Ending : When noon arrives, 31. Trunks : Large suitcases for carrying belongings.
Prussian trumpets echo outside. Overcome by 32. Courage : The ability to face difficulty or fear.
emotion, M. Hamel writes “Vive La France!” on 33. Emotion : A strong feeling such as joy, sadness,
the chalkboard in large letters. His silent dismissal or anger.
of the class marks the heartbreaking end of their 34. Trembled : Shook involuntarily from emotion or
beloved French lessons, leaving both students and cold.
villagers with a profound sense of loss. 35. Choked : Struggled to speak due to emotion.
36. Chalk : A soft white material used for writing on
blackboards.
37. Gesture : A movement of the body to express an
WORD MEANING idea or emotion.
38. Dismissed : Sent away or allowed to leave.
1. Dread : Great fear or apprehension. 39. Angelus : A prayer or the ringing of a church bell
2. Scolding : A reprimand or rebuke. at set times.
3. Participles : Verb forms used as adjectives or to 40. Vive La France : French for “Long live France,”
form verb tenses. expressing patriotism.
4. Chirping : Short, high-pitched sounds made by
birds.
5. Drilling : Practicing military exercises.
6. Tempting : Attractive or enticing. CRITICAL COMMENT
7. Resist : To oppose or refrain from something.
8. Bulletin : A short official announcement or notice. 1. Value of Language : Daudet highlights that a
9. Draft : Compulsory recruitment for military mother tongue holds deep emotional power.
service. Losing French suddenly makes people realize
10. Apprentice : A person learning a trade under a its significance for their identity, daily life, and
skilled worker. cultural pride.
11. Bustle : Excited activity or movement. 2. Regret and Missed Opportunities : Little Franz’s
12. Commotion : A state of noisy disturbance. shock reveals how individuals often neglect their
13. Blushed : Turned red in the face, often from education. Once language is banned, everyone
embarrassment. regrets past laziness and the lost chance to learn
14. Solemn : Serious and formal. properly.
15. Spectacles : Glasses for improving vision. 3. Teacher’s Dedication : M. Hamel’s final lesson
16. Primer : A basic textbook or introductory book. shows a teacher’s unwavering commitment,
17. Grave : Serious or somber. even under harsh orders. His careful instruction
18. Gentle : Mild and kind. demonstrates how educators nurture respect for
19. Thunderclap : A sudden, loud noise, used culture and heritage.
metaphorically for shocking news. 4. Community Solidarity : The entire village, young
20. Wretches : Miserable or despicable people. and old, unites during the last lesson. This
21. Nuisance : Something or someone causing gathering reflects communal support, empathy,
inconvenience or annoyance. and shared grief at losing their right to speak
22. Reproach : To express disapproval or French.
disappointment. 5. Sudden Change Under Foreign Rule : The abrupt
23. Blame : To hold responsible for a fault or wrong. imposition of German in schools highlights how
24. Enslaved : Made a slave or subjugated. politics can drastically reshape people’s lives.
25. Patience : The ability to endure delay or suffering Daudet stresses the emotional toll of forced
without becoming upset. language shifts on ordinary families.
26. Copies : Written examples used for practice.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 279

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIO time

(c) He scolded him for laziness
(d) He offered him a ride
1. Why was little Franz dreading going to school
Ans
that morning?
(a) Because he was late for an exam (b) He teased him, saying there was plenty of time
(b) Because he forgot his lunch Mistaking Wachter’s remark for mockery, Franz
(c) Because M. Hamel would question them on rushes on, unaware it hints at the unusual quiet in
participles school that day. This brief exchange foreshadows
(d) Because he fought with a classmate something momentous about the class session.
Ans
5. What was unusual about the classroom
(c) Because M. Hamel would question them on atmosphere that morning?
participles (a) The seats were missing
Franz feels anxious specifically about the participle (b) There was a celebratory feast
lesson, having failed to study. This fear intensifies (c) Everyone was chatting loudly
his temptation to skip class despite ultimately (d) It was silent, like Sunday morning
resisting and hurrying off to school. Ans
2. What tempted Franz to run away from school (d) It was silent, like Sunday morning
instead of attending class? Franz expects the usual bustle-desks clattering,
(a) No strict teachers at school lessons repeated aloud-but instead encounters
(b) The sunny weather and Prussian soldiers stillness. The hush contrasts sharply with normal
drilling days, heightening his unease and hinting at major
(c) An invitation from friends news.
(d) The promise of extra recess time
6. What item did M. Hamel carry that usually
Ans
intimidated students?
(b) The sunny weather and Prussian soldiers (a) A loud whistle
drilling (b) A leather belt
Outside scenery-warm sunshine, chirping birds, (c) An iron ruler under his arm
and soldiers practicing-appeals more to Franz (d) A wooden cane
than grammar lessons. Yet he musters self- Ans
control, deciding to continue to class despite these
distractions. (c) An iron ruler under his arm
M. Hamel’s iron ruler symbolizes discipline and fear
3. Where did the crowd gather that made Franz for Franz. Despite his lateness, Franz is surprised
curious but unwilling to stop? that no reprimand follows, foreshadowing the
(a) In the schoolyard gentler mood of this final lesson.
(b) In front of the bulletin-board at the town hall
(c) Around the blacksmith’s workshop 7. Which attire did M. Hamel wear that signaled
(d) Near the sawmill’s open field something special?
(a) A simple black robe
Ans
(b) His beautiful green coat and embroidered silk
(b) In front of the bulletin-board at the town hall cap
The town-hall bulletin-board typically posted dire (c) A formal uniform with medals
news. Franz wonders about new developments, but (d) His everyday shirt and trousers
he avoids delaying further-he’s already late and Ans
anxious about M. Hamel’s participle questions.
(b) His beautiful green coat and embroidered silk
4. How did the blacksmith, Wachter, react when he cap
saw Franz running? M. Hamel’s best clothes-typically reserved
(a) He ignored him for inspections or prize ceremonies-indicate
(b) He teased him, saying there was plenty of

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Ch 5 : The Last Lesson

Ans 40. After the church-clock struck twelve, M. Hamel

(a) “school” wrote “Vive La France!” and then dismissed
______.
Villagers sat quietly, regretting their own lack
(a) “his friend”
of formal education. Their presence was both
(b) “the school”
an apology and a tribute to M. Hamel, who had
(c) “the mayor”
served the village faithfully for decades.
(d) “the postman”
37. Hearing his name to recite the rule for the Ans
participle, Franz got ______ immediately.
(a) “excited” (b)“the school”
(b) “bored” That final chalk inscription epitomized his
(c) “hopeful” patriotic farewell. Overcome with emotion,
(d) “mixed up” he gestured for everyone to leave, ending the
last French lesson amid the sorrowful reality of
Ans
German rule.
(d) “mixed up”
41. Choose the option that lists these moments in
Despite longing to recite well, Franz forgot the
their correct order:
participle rule’s first words. He stood nervous and
1. Franz thinks of playing outdoors instead of
ashamed, knowing time was almost gone for him
going to school.
to prove himself in French.
2. He passes the town-hall bulletin-board,
38. M. Hamel stated that if people delay learning, suspecting bad news.
they end up unable to speak or write their own 3. Franz finally reaches M. Hamel’s garden out
______. of breath.
(a) “thoughts” 4. Blacksmith Wachter calls out, telling him not
(b) “language” to hurry.
(c) “stories” (a) 2, 3, 4, 1
(d) “names” (b) 1, 2, 4, 3
(c) 4, 1, 3, 2
Ans
(d) 1, 4, 2, 3
(b) “language”
Ans
He stressed how Alsace’s habit of postponing
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3
studies left them vulnerable when forced to
abandon French. Preserving one’s mother tongue First, Franz is tempted by the sunny day (1), then
is crucial to cultural and individual identity. notices the bulletin-board (2). Next, Wachter
teases him (4), and finally he arrives at M.
39. M. Hamel called the French language the most Hamel’s place exhausted (3).
beautiful, the clearest, and most ______ in the
world. 42. Pick the correct order for these events:
(a) “entertaining” 1. Franz sees the usual clamor is missing at
(b) “artistic” school.
(c) “logical” 2. M. Hamel tells him kindly to take his seat.
(d) “complicated” 3. Franz had hoped the usual noise might hide
his lateness.
Ans
4. Franz opens the door and enters in front of
(c) “logical” everyone.
He praised French’s clarity, urging the students (a) 3, 1, 4, 2
never to forget it. He likened maintaining one’s (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
language to possessing the “key to their prison,” (c) 3, 2, 1, 4
a means to stay connected to heritage. (d) 4, 1, 3, 2
Ans
(a) 3, 1, 4, 2

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community that keeps its language retains a vital (c) The smallest children reading their basics
form of identity. (d) Newly enrolled students from another village

15. Which two words did M. Hamel have the students Ans
practice in beautiful writing? (c) The smallest children reading their basics
(a) Liberty, Equality
In French classes of that era, the youngest children
(b) Homework, Grammar
learned simple sounds. Their recitation brings
(c) France, Alsace
both comedy and pathos, reminding everyone
(d) Duty, Honour
how fundamental lessons are swiftly disappearing
Ans under German rule.
(c) France, Alsace 19. What stirs old Hauser to tears at the back of the
The class meticulously copies these words, room?
symbolizing national and regional pride. In M. (a) Reading aloud from his worn primer
Hamel’s final lesson, writing “France, Alsace” (b) Realizing the desks are being removed
underscores the significance of retaining identity (c) Losing his prized spectacles
through language. (d) Hearing the Prussian soldiers approaching

16. Why does no one notice the beetles flying around Ans
during the lesson? (a) Reading aloud from his worn primer
(a) They are all too focused on writing
Clutching the old textbook, Hauser tries to recite
(b) The beetles are too quiet
along with the children. His trembling voice
(c) The beetles enter an empty classroom
conveys regret and deep emotion for the lost
(d) They love insects in class
opportunity to learn and speak French openly.
Ans
20. Which event coincides with the end of the lesson,
(a) They are all too focused on writing marking noon?
Everyone’s determination to make the most of this (a) M. Hamel collects all books
last French lesson means even small distractions (b) The church-clock strikes and Prussian
go ignored. The students and elders channel their trumpets blare
regret into concentrating on every detail. (c) The new German teacher arrives early
(d) A violent storm breaks out
17. What does Franz observe M. Hamel doing between Ans
lessons?
(a) Sitting motionless, committing the classroom (b) The church-clock strikes and Prussian
to memory trumpets blare
(b) Rearranging desks to prepare for the new As the clock chimes twelve and soldiers return,
teacher these sounds underscore the takeover. It’s a
(c) Decorating the windows with flowers poignant reminder of the lesson’s finality: French
(d) Preparing final exams for each child instruction and M. Hamel’s tenure are ending
Ans abruptly.

(a) Sitting motionless, committing the classroom 21. What final act does M. Hamel perform before
to memory dismissing class?
M. Hamel quietly surveys his surroundings as if (a) He burns the French textbooks
engraving every detail in his mind. Having taught (b) He writes “Vive La France!” on the blackboard
there for forty years, leaving is deeply emotional, (c) He hurls his ruler across the room
so he cherishes these last moments. (d) He shakes each student’s hand
Ans
18. Which “babies” chant their ba, be, bi, bo, bu at
the end of class? (b) He writes “Vive La France!” on the blackboard
(a) M. Hamel’s younger relatives M. Hamel’s strong chalk-written message
(b) The older villagers practicing French vowels symbolizes patriotic devotion and sorrow for

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Ch 5 : The Last Lesson

the importance of this day. This unusual (c) They, too, were sorry they hadn’t gone to
wardrobe choice helps Franz realize the lesson’s school more
extraordinary nature. (d) They wanted to reward the best students

8. Who were the unexpected visitors seated on the Ans

back benches? (c) They, too, were sorry they hadn’t gone to
(a) School inspectors school more
(b) Parents of the pupils
The elders’ presence signifies communal regret
(c) Village elders, like old Hauser and the former
and reverence for the French language. They
mayor
attend M. Hamel’s final lesson in solidarity and
(d) French soldiers from the town
gratitude for his decades-long teaching service.
Ans
12. Which grammar topic was Franz called upon to
(c) Village elders, like old Hauser and the former recite but failed to master?
mayor (a) The subjunctive mood
Franz notices these older villagers attending, (b) The rule for the participle
reflecting their regret for neglected schooling and (c) Irregular French verbs
respect for M. Hamel’s final French lesson after (d) The difference between nouns and pronouns
the Berlin order to change languages.
Ans
9. What shocking announcement did M. Hamel (b) The rule for the participle
make that day?
Franz openly struggles with the participle rule he
(a) He was retiring for health reasons
neglected. This unpreparedness makes him feel
(b) The school was shutting down permanently
even worse, given the final lesson’s gravity and M.
(c) It was their last French lesson due to orders
Hamel’s sincere farewell.
from Berlin
(d) Students had won a national competition 13. How did M. Hamel respond when Franz couldn’t
Ans recite the participle rule correctly?
(a) He dismissed Franz from class
(c) It was their last French lesson due to orders (b) He refused to scold him, expressing sadness
from Berlin (c) He asked Franz to retake the exam later
M. Hamel reveals that French will no longer be (d) He teased Franz in front of everyone
taught, as Alsace and Lorraine must switch to
Ans
German. This news stuns Franz and underpins
the entire emotional weight of the lesson. (b) He refused to scold him, expressing sadness
Instead of anger, M. Hamel shows compassion,
10. How did Franz react to learning it was his last
highlighting that Alsace’s procrastination in
French class?
learning French led to their current predicament,
(a) He celebrated to avoid studies
and Franz’s personal regret mirrors the region’s
(b) He felt indifferent
wider neglect.
(c) He felt relieved to skip grammar
(d) He regretted not valuing his lessons more 14. According to M. Hamel, why must people treasure
Ans their language under foreign rule?
(a) Because it’s like a key to their prison
(d) He regretted not valuing his lessons more (b) Because no other language is taught
The realization that he can’t learn French (c) Because it guarantees better jobs
anymore saddens him. Books once a nuisance (d) Because it’s fun to speak more languages
become precious, and he laments skipping studies
Ans
for trivial pursuits like collecting birds’ eggs.
(a) Because it’s like a key to their prison
11. Why were the old men of the village present that
M. Hamel equates maintaining one’s native
day?
language with preserving cultural and personal
(a) They were grading the students
freedom. Even if politically dominated, a
(b) They wanted to protest the new system

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29. Blacksmith Wachter called after Franz, telling him dressed in honor of teaching his pupils one last
not to hurry since he’d reach school in ______. time before German replaced their language.
(a) “plenty of time”
(b) “the next hour” 33. On the once-empty back benches sat village
(c) “no time at all” people, including old Hauser, the former mayor,
(d) “five minutes flat” and ______.
(a) “several farmers”
Ans (b) “a traveling singer”
(a) “plenty of time” (c) “the former postmaster”
(d) “the local trader”
Wachter’s remark initially seemed like teasing
to Franz. In reality, it hinted that no strict start Ans
awaited him. The day’s “last lesson” scenario (c) “the former postmaster”
meant punctuality wasn’t the typical concern.
Those seats were typically vacant. Now, respected
30. Franz expected a noisy classroom but found it as locals occupied them to show remorse for neglected
quiet as ______. education and to pay tribute to M. Hamel’s final
(a) a “cloudy morning” day teaching French in Alsace.
(b) “Sunday morning”
(c) “late evening” 34. The shocking news was that this would be their
(d) “silent movie” very last ______.
(a) “holiday”
Ans (b) “French lesson”
(b) “Sunday morning” (c) “writing test”
(d) “grammar quiz”
Normally, bustling activity greeted latecomers.
However, on that day, the hush resembled a Ans
Sunday’s reverence, reflecting the solemn mood (b) “French lesson”
as everyone gathered for the final French lesson.
Berlin’s order to replace French with German in
31. Franz saw M. Hamel pacing, holding his terrible Alsace schools upended routines. Franz realized
iron ruler under his ______. too late how precious each class was, regretting
(a) “desk” past apathy toward studying French grammar.
(b) “arm”
(c) “coat” 35. Franz regretted not studying more, wishing
(d) “bed” he hadn’t wasted time hunting birds’ eggs or
______.
Ans (a) “doing math puzzles”
(b) “arm” (b) “sliding on the Saar”
(c) “visiting museums”
M. Hamel’s iron ruler symbolizes discipline and
(d) “collecting stamps”
fear. Yet, despite Franz’s lateness, M. Hamel didn’t
scold him, foreshadowing a more compassionate Ans
tone during this extraordinary final class. (b) “sliding on the Saar”
32. M. Hamel wore his green coat, frilled shirt, In hindsight, Franz viewed these youthful
and embroidered silk cap, usually reserved for diversions as missed opportunities. He now longs
______. for any chance to continue his French education,
(a) “his birthday” fully aware that this lesson would be his last.
(b) “a church service”
(c) “inspection and prize days” 36. M. Hamel’s special Sunday clothes honored the
(d) “visiting family” final day, and the old men felt sad they hadn’t
Ans gone to ______ more.
(a) “school”
(c) “inspection and prize days” (b) “the army”
This formal attire underscored the gravity of the (c) “market fairs”
occasion: his farewell French lesson. M. Hamel (d) “M. Hamel’s house”

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Ch 5 : The Last Lesson

Alsace’s lost language rights. His last silent (d) A patriotic tribute to the language and nation
gesture signals the end of class and a heartfelt
Ans
farewell.
(d) A patriotic tribute to the language and nation
22. How does M. Hamel appear as he makes that final
By writing “Vive La France!” M. Hamel reaffirms
chalk inscription?
pride in French heritage. Though Alsace must
(a) Jovial and laughing
switch to German, that final exclamation defies
(b) Indifferent, barely paying attention
the takeover and honors France’s cultural identity.
(c) Very pale and unusually tall
(d) Tired but smiling proudly 26. Franz was very late for school and dreaded a
Ans scolding, particularly because M. Hamel would
test them on ______.
(c) Very pale and unusually tall (a) “poetry forms”
His pale complexion reflects his deep emotion. To (b) “participles”
Franz, he seems taller than ever, demonstrating (c) “exam tips”
moral stature in this poignant finale, marking a (d) “past tense”
dignified close to his decades-long service.
Ans
23. What does M. Hamel do after writing on the (b) “participles”
blackboard?
Franz dreaded this lesson because he didn’t
(a) He erases it immediately
know any participles. M. Hamel had promised to
(b) He stops, leans his head against the wall, and
question the class on them, heightening Franz’s
dismisses class
fear and temptation to skip school entirely.
(c) He gives each student a French grammar
book 27. Tempted by the sunny outdoors, Franz thought of
(d) He asks Franz to read it aloud skipping school to watch ______.
Ans (a) “the wild boars”
(b) “Prussian soldiers drilling”
(b) He stops, leans his head against the wall, and (c) “his friends dancing”
dismisses class (d) “flying balloons”
Overcome by emotion, M. Hamel cannot continue
Ans
speaking. He silently signals the students to
leave, ending the lesson with a powerful, wordless (b) “Prussian soldiers drilling”
conclusion to his teaching career. Chirping birds, bright weather, and soldiers’
exercises enticed him more than grammar rules.
24. Which sentiment best describes Franz’s feelings
Yet, despite these distractions, he decided to
when M. Hamel ends the class?
resist temptation and continue to class.
(a) Relief and excitement
(b) Deep sorrow and regret 28. All bad news had come from the town-hall
(c) Anger at losing a holiday bulletin-board over the past ______.
(d) Eagerness to learn German quickly (a) “two years”
Ans (b) “three months”
(c) “two weeks”
(b) Deep sorrow and regret (d) “one year”
The final class and M. Hamel’s departure
Ans
overwhelm Franz with remorse for previously
neglecting his studies. He realizes too late the value (a) “two years”
of French lessons and M. Hamel’s instruction. Franz recalls how the town-hall board delivered
negative updates like lost battles and new military
25. What does the phrase “Vive La France!” signify
orders for two full years, making him anxious
in M. Hamel’s final act?
about what new development might be posted.
(a) He wants to provoke the Prussian soldiers
(b) He’s announcing a new French lesson
(c) It’s a famous French farewell

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 285

Franz first counts on the normal commotion (3), states only German is now allowed.
realizes it’s silent instead (1), then must walk in 4. Franz feels intense regret for neglecting his
under everyone’s gaze (4), and M. Hamel responds grammar and other studies.
gently, telling him to sit (2). (a) 3, 4, 1, 2
(b) 4, 1, 2, 3
43. Decide which sequence of statements fits the (c) 3, 1, 2, 4
story’s timeline: (d) 4, 3, 1, 2
1. Franz observes M. Hamel’s special clothes.
2. He finally notices that the village elders are Ans
present. (a) 3, 4, 1, 2
3. He leaps to his desk, relieved at not being
First, Berlin’s order restricts French teaching
scolded.
(3). Franz responds with sorrow (4), recognizes
4. He notices the entire classroom appears
he should’ve studied more (1), and clings to his
strange and solemn.
once-hated books as “old friends” (2).
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4
(b) 1, 3, 4, 2 46. Arrange the next sequence properly:
(c) 3, 1, 2, 4 1. Old Hauser sits at the back with his primer.
(d) 1, 4, 2, 3 2. Franz hears M. Hamel’s final lesson is out of
Ans respect for his years of work.
3. M. Hamel wears his “fine Sunday clothes.”
(b) 1, 3, 4, 2 4. The villagers regret not having attended
After entering, Franz sees M. Hamel in fancy attire school diligently.
(1), sits down (3), recognizes a solemn mood (4), (a) 3, 2, 4, 1
and then realizes the back benches have notable (b) 2, 3, 1, 4
villagers (2). (c) 1, 3, 4, 2
(d) 4, 1, 3, 2
44. Identify the correct progression of events:
1. M. Hamel informs everyone this is their final Ans
French class. (a) 3, 2, 4, 1
2. Franz contemplates how he barely knows to
He’s in his best outfit for the last class (3). The
write.
villagers respect him for 40 years of teaching (2).
3. M. Hamel addresses them in a grave, gentle
They regret past inattention (4), and old Hauser
tone.
follows along with his primer (1).
4. Franz wonders why the men from the village
are there. 47. Which arrangement of events is correct?
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4 1. Franz’s turn arrives to recite the participle
(b) 4, 1, 3, 2 rule.
(c) 3, 1, 4, 2 2. Franz feels unprepared and stands trembling.
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2 3. M. Hamel forgives him, pointing out Alsace’s
Ans habit of postponing.
4. Franz grips his desk, unable to speak properly.
(c) 3, 1, 4, 2 (a) 2, 4, 1, 3
He uses a solemn voice first (3), drops the shocking (b) 1, 4, 2, 3
news (1), prompting Franz to question the elders’ (c) 1, 2, 4, 3
presence (4) and finally lament his weak writing (d) 2, 1, 3, 4
skills (2).
Ans
45. Choose the option that lists these points in the (b) 1, 4, 2, 3
correct order:
He’s called to recite first (1), panics at his
1. Franz realizes he should have valued his
ignorance (4), sees M. Hamel’s disappointed
lessons more.
yet compassionate reaction (2), and hears M.
2. He calls his books “old friends” he cannot
Hamel blaming procrastination for their linguistic
abandon.
failings (3).
3. The chalkboard announcement from Berlin

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Ch 5 : The Last Lesson

(ii) Why might the narrator think Wachter is How might this change the atmosphere in the
teasing him? classroom?
How does being late affect his perception? (iii) What does the narrator’s reaction suggest
(iii) How do casual comments like this influence about his typical school routine?
the narrator’s mood? (iv) In what way does the unusual calmness
(iv) In what way does this moment highlight the indicate a special situation?
narrator’s self-consciousness about school? Why might the class be so quiet on this day?
Why could a friendly remark feel mocking to (v) “…everything had to be as quiet as Sunday,”
him? the narrator observes.
(v) “Don’t go so fast, bub; you’ll get to your How does this line capture his frustration?
school in plenty of time!” Wachter calls. What does it imply about the seriousness of
How does this line create both annoyance and events?
concern for the narrator?
Ans
What does it suggest about their neighborly
relationships? (i) He’s used to a loud start-desk lids banging,
voices echoing-that usually hides his late
Ans arrival.
(i) Wachter is the local blacksmith, checking the He planned to slip in unnoticed.
new bulletin with his apprentice. Now it’s silent, making him more conspicuous.
The narrator speeds past, feeling embarrassed (ii) He can’t hide in chaos, so everyone sees him
or defensive about running late. enter.
It reveals a small-town vibe where people This calm heightens the sense that something
know each other’s routines. important is happening.
(ii) He’s sensitive about his tardiness and (iii) It hints he often relies on confusion or bustle
unpreparedness, so even a casual comment to cover his tardiness, suggesting he’s not
seems like mocking. always punctual.
When you’re anxious, any attention can feel (iv) The stark silence points to a notable event-
like a slight. perhaps the final lesson or an announcement,
(iii) Such offhand remarks can heighten his making everyone serious and quiet.
tension; he already feels uneasy about facing They might be anticipating news.
M. Hamel. (v) He’s frustrated because the usual cover is
(iv) He’s worried that everyone notices and judges gone, leaving him exposed.
his lateness. Comparing it to “Sunday” emphasizes the
Even well-meaning words can sound like unusual gravity and respect in the room,
teasing to someone who’s already nervous. suggesting a solemn day.
(v) Though it might be a simple statement, he
interprets it as a playful jab.
6. Read the following extract from the text and
It suggests villagers do look out for one
answer the questions that follow:
another, but the narrator’s anxiety paints it
“…Through the window I saw my classmates,
as irritating or intrusive.
already in their places, and M. Hamel walking
5. Read the following extract from the text and up and down with his terrible iron ruler under
answer the questions that follow: his arm. I had to open the door and go in before
“Usually, when school began, there was a great everybody. You can imagine how I blushed…”
bustle… But now it was all so still! I had counted (i) What does the narrator observe through the
on the commotion to get to my desk without window, and why does it embarrass him?
being seen; but, of course, that day everything How might M. Hamel’s “terrible iron ruler”
had to be as quiet as Sunday…” add to his discomfort?
(i) What does the narrator say about the usual What does stepping in late imply?
start of school? (ii) Why could entering last in front of everyone
Why had he relied on the usual noise? make him “blush”?
How is the silence different this time? How might the classmates react?
(ii) Why does the unexpected stillness upset his (iii) What does this reveal about discipline in M.
plan? Hamel’s class?

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Ans Ans
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
Because the board consistently posts grim updates Realizing their missed education (2) leads them
(1), Franz expects a new crisis (2). Hence, the to come for M. Hamel’s final lesson (1). Their
record of dire bulletins prompts his suspicion that presence and remorse connect, illustrating
it concerns him or the town. communal sorrow for not studying earlier.

54. Pinpoint the connection between Statement (1) 57. Consider how Statement (1) and Statement (2)
and Statement (2) in “The Last Lesson”: align in “The Last Lesson”:
Statement (1) : The classroom is unusually silent, Statement (1) : Franz feels sorry for wasting time
“like Sunday morning.” on games once he learns the lesson is ending.
Statement (2) : Franz hopes to sneak in unnoticed Statement (2) : He now cherishes his old grammar
amid normal noise. book and history of saints.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(d) (1) and (2) contrast each other (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
Ans Ans
(d) (1) and (2) contrast each other (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
Franz’s plan to hide in bustle (2) fails because Both statements highlight his abrupt realization
the room is hushed (1). The stark quiet makes of French’s importance. He regrets not studying
his entrance conspicuous, so the two statements (1) and finds new emotional value in those same
contradict each other’s implications. textbooks (2), reinforcing his changed attitude.

55. Evaluate how Statement (1) and Statement (2) 58. Analyze the relationship between Statement (1)
relate in “The Last Lesson”: and Statement (2) in “The Last Lesson”:
Statement (1) : M. Hamel wears his finest clothes. Statement (1) : M. Hamel blames himself for
Statement (2) : He announces a surprise holiday letting Franz skip lessons to water flowers or go
instead of class. fishing.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false Statement (2) : He believes Alsace’s habit of
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false procrastination helped cause its linguistic crisis.
(c) (1) and (2) are independent (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(d) (1) contrasts with (2) (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) triggers (2)
Ans
(d) (1) and (2) are unrelated
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Ans
Yes, he’s dressed formally, but not for a holiday.
(2) is incorrect because the lesson proceeds as (c) (1) triggers (2)
normal-albeit the last French lesson-no free day His personal indulgences (1) exemplify Alsace’s
is granted. broader tendency to postpone learning. This self-
critique leads him to conclude that such habits
56. Determine the interplay between Statement (1) contributed to losing French in schools (2).
and Statement (2) in “The Last Lesson”:
Statement (1) : Village elders, including old 59. Examine the link between Statement (1) and
Hauser, attend with primers in hand. Statement (2) from “The Last Lesson”:
Statement (2) : They regret missing previous Statement (1) : The day’s grammar explanation
chances to learn French. appears unusually easy to Franz.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false Statement (2) : M. Hamel teaches with
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false unprecedented patience, wanting to impart
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) everything he can.
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false

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48. Decide the best order for these points: Ans

1. M. Hamel admits he sometimes let Franz skip (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
lessons.
He gives out the special writing pages (1). The
2. He blames himself for not being strict.
class devotes itself silently (2). Then noon arrives
3. M. Hamel mentions that parents sent kids to
(3), and finally M. Hamel inscribes “Vive La
farms instead of school.
France!” before dismissing them (4).
4. Franz realizes everyone shares blame for their
poor French. 51. Determine how Statement (1) and Statement
(a) 3, 4, 1, 2 (2) correspond in Alphonse Daudet’s “The Last
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 Lesson”:
(c) 3, 1, 4, 2 Statement (1) : Franz is late to class and fears M.
(d) 2, 4, 1, 3 Hamel’s anger.
Ans Statement (2) : M. Hamel greets him gently,
telling him to take his seat.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
First, M. Hamel confesses letting Franz skip (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
tasks (1), accepts guilt (2), recounts parents (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
prioritizing work over school (3), concluding that (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
all contributed to the language’s decline (4).
Ans
49. Put the statements in chronological order: (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
1. M. Hamel calls French “the clearest, most
Franz’s lateness does not trigger M. Hamel’s
logical language.”
kindness. Because it’s the final lesson, M. Hamel
2. He urges them never to forget it, comparing
avoids scolding. His compassionate behavior
language to a prison key.
stands alone, unrelated to Franz’s tardiness.
3. M. Hamel opens a grammar book and reads
their lesson. 52. Ascertain the relationship between Statement (1)
4. Franz is amazed how easily he grasps it all and Statement (2) from “The Last Lesson”:
today. Statement (1) : Franz nearly deserts school to
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 watch Prussian soldiers.
(b) 3, 4, 1, 2 Statement (2) : He decides to attend class despite
(c) 1, 4, 2, 3 temptation.
(d) 1, 2, 4, 3 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Ans (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
He praises French first (1), then stresses its vital
Ans
significance (2), reads from the grammar (3), and
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
Franz suddenly finds the lesson simpler than ever,
thanks to focused listening (4). He’s tempted by the bright outdoors (1) but
chooses to go in (2). Together, they show his
50. Choose the option that places these final details
internal dilemma-first the allure, then the
in the correct order:
resolution to continue schooling.
1. M. Hamel hands out new writing copies:
“France, Alsace.” 53. Decide how Statement (1) and Statement (2) link
2. Everyone quietly practices writing, ignoring together in “The Last Lesson”:
stray beetles. Statement (1) : The bulletin-board is known for
3. The church-clock strikes noon. bad news.
4. M. Hamel writes “Vive La France!” and Statement (2) : Franz assumes it may bring a
dismisses them. fresh problem.
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) 1, 4, 2, 3 (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2 (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other

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How does this moment highlight his internal (iii) Why do you think the townspeople focus so
conflict between fun and responsibility? closely on these notices?
(v) “It was all much more tempting than the rule (iv) In what way does this scene reflect the larger
for participles,” he admits. conflict affecting their lives?
How does this line capture his dilemma? How might constant negative updates shape
Why might overcoming this temptation be their emotions?
significant for his growth? (v) “All our bad news had come from there,” the
narrator remarks about the bulletin-board.
Ans
What does this line reveal about their reality?
(i) He describes a warm, bright day with chirping How might this steady flow of bad news
birds and soldiers drilling. impact one’s outlook or hope?
Compared to practicing participles, the
outdoor scene looks far more enjoyable. Ans
Nevertheless, he chooses to hurry to school, (i) He notices a crowd reading a fresh
showing a commitment to his lessons. announcement, which concerns him because
(ii) It indicates that the region is under some for two years, only negative updates have
form of occupation, reflecting a tense political appeared there-lost battles, drafts, new
environment. orders.
He may feel more pressure to continue his Seeing a group gathered suggests something
routine, knowing that circumstances are alarming might have been posted again.
unstable. (ii) He expects more bad news, given the bulletin-
(iii) He likely realizes skipping class will cause board’s track record.
more trouble and doesn’t want to let M. It reflects a tense, worried atmosphere where
Hamel down-especially since he’s already everyone braces for the worst.
nervous about participles. (iii) They rely on these official notices to learn
(iv) By not giving in to the lovely weather, he about political or military developments, so
demonstrates a sense of duty. each new post could mean significant changes
He struggles between wanting to enjoy the in their lives.
day and knowing he must attend school, (iv) It shows they live in a wartime or occupied
underlining his responsibility. setting where official proclamations rule their
(v) He openly acknowledges the day’s beauty as daily freedoms.
more alluring than grammar, capturing his Hearing relentless bad news would create
inner battle. fear, stress, and uncertainty.
Overcoming this temptation marks a step (v) He emphasizes that it’s a repeated source
toward maturity, proving he can prioritize of alarming information, hinting their daily
what he needs to do over what he wants to do. reality is overshadowed by war or conflict.
Such ongoing negativity can erode
3. Read the following extract from the text and optimism and make people dread each new
answer the questions that follow: announcement.
“When I passed the town hall there was a crowd
in front of the bulletin-board. For the last two 4. Read the following extract from the text and
years all our bad news had come from there-the answer the questions that follow:
lost battles, the draft, the orders-so I thought, “Then, as I hurried by as fast as I could go, the
‘What can be the matter now?’” blacksmith, Wachter, who was there with his
(i) What does the narrator see at the town hall, apprentice, reading the bulletin, called after me,
and why is it troubling? ‘Don’t go so fast, bub; you’ll get to your school in
What sort of information is usually posted on plenty of time!’”
the bulletin-board? (i) Who is Wachter, and what is he doing when
How does he react when he sees people the narrator passes?
gathered? Why does the narrator rush by, and how does
(ii) Why might he exclaim “What can be the he feel about Wachter’s remark?
matter now?” What does this small exchange show about
How does this show the community’s general life in the town?
mood?

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Ch 5 : The Last Lesson

(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (iv) Why is skipping school tempting?
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other In what way might avoiding class lead to
bigger problems?
Ans
(v) “For a moment I thought of running away,”
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other the narrator confesses.
Franz listens more intently than ever (1), and How does this reveal his nervousness?
M. Hamel explains meticulously on this last day Why could running away seem like an easy
(2). Their combined efforts make the lesson feel solution yet also a serious mistake?
clearer and more significant. Ans
60. Determine how Statement (1) and Statement (2) (i) He is late and expects a harsh response from
match up in “The Last Lesson”: M. Hamel, who plans to question them on
Statement (1) : At noon, M. Hamel writes “Vive participles.
La France!” on the board. He hasn’t studied these grammar points, so
Statement (2) : He dismisses the class without he’s worried about embarrassment.
another word, leaning his head against the wall. Thinking of running away shows he’s
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false overwhelmed and wishes to avoid
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false confrontation.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (ii) “Great dread” implies that M. Hamel is strict
(d) (1) and (2) follow logically and does not tolerate unprepared students.
Arriving late only adds to his fear, as it might
Ans
draw extra attention to his lack of readiness.
(d) (1) and (2) follow logically (iii) It creates a tense atmosphere. He anticipates
After his patriotic message (1), emotion possible criticism throughout the day, making
overwhelms him, so he silently ends the lesson (2). him anxious and on edge.
These actions conclude the final French session, (iv) He’d escape the immediate shame of not
forming a seamless final gesture. knowing his lesson.
However, he would miss even more learning
and could face worse reprimands later.
(v) His urge to flee highlights how frightened he
EXTRACT BASED QUESTION is of M. Hamel’s disapproval.
While running off avoids immediate stress,
it would likely worsen his academic struggles
1. Read the following extract from the text and and guilt afterward.
answer the questions that follow:
“I started for school very late that morning and 2. Read the following extract from the text and
was in great dread of a scolding, especially because answer the questions that follow:
M. Hamel had said that he would question us “It was so warm, so bright! The birds were chirping
on participles, and I did not know the first word at the edge of the woods; and in the open field
about them. For a moment I thought of running back of the sawmill the Prussian soldiers were
away.” drilling. It was all much more tempting than the
(i) Why does the narrator dread going to school rule for participles, but I hurried off to school.”
on this particular morning? (i) How does the narrator describe the morning?
Which lesson is he unprepared for, and how Which daily duty seems less appealing by
does that worry him? comparison?
What does his brief thought of running away What does his final decision reveal?
show about his mindset? (ii) What does the presence of Prussian soldiers
(ii) How does the phrase “great dread of a imply about the setting?
scolding” indicate M. Hamel’s teaching style? How might this affect the narrator’s
Why might being late increase the narrator’s perspective?
anxiety? (iii) Why do you think he continues to school even
(iii) How do you think this situation sets the tone though the day is so inviting?
for his day? (iv) In what way does resisting temptation show
his sense of duty?

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(iv) In what ways does the narrator’s late entrance (iii) What does this reveal about the significance
heighten his anxiety? of the day?
Why might M. Hamel’s stern presence feel (iv) In what ways might wearing such formal
worse at that moment? attire affect how the students perceive the
(v) “I had to open the door and go in before lesson?
everybody,” he laments. Why does it surprise the narrator?
How does this line emphasize his self- (v) “He never wore [it] except on inspection and
consciousness? prize days,” the narrator recalls.
Why could such a public entrance be How does this line highlight the day’s
intimidating? importance?
What does M. Hamel’s choice of clothing
Ans
suggest about his emotions?
(i) He sees that the other students are seated
and ready, while M. Hamel paces with his Ans
strict ruler. (i) He’s dressed in a green coat, frilled shirt,
Being so obviously late makes him feel and embroidered silk cap-an outfit he usually
ashamed. reserves for special events.
It shows he can’t slip in unnoticed. The narrator only notices once he’s less
(ii) All eyes would be on him, increasing his panicked, realizing this day isn’t ordinary.
feeling of guilt or embarrassment. (ii) It signals that this final French lesson is
Classmates might stare or smirk, intensifying as significant as an inspection or award
his blush. ceremony.
(iii) It indicates a disciplined environment where Dressing formally heightens the seriousness in
punctuality is expected and a visible show of the room, making everyone more attentive.
authority (the iron ruler) keeps students in (iii) It suggests a once-in-a-lifetime moment,
line. possibly his last time teaching French.
(iv) He’s singled out for tardiness, feeling judged He wants to honor the event.
the moment he steps inside. (iv) Students see it as a sign that something major
M. Hamel’s stern demeanor amplifies his fear is happening.
of reprimand. The narrator is surprised because no one told
(v) He’s highlighting how exposed he feels- them this day would be so exceptional.
everyone watches him. (v) Knowing he normally wears it only on
Having to face the teacher and classmates important days shows this lesson holds deep
head-on can be daunting, especially when one meaning.
is unprepared or late. It implies he’s both proud and emotional,
wanting to pay tribute to the language and
his role as their teacher.
7. Read the following extract from the text and
answer the questions that follow:
8. Read the following extract from the text and
“Not till then, when I had got a little over my
fright, did I see that our teacher had on his answer the questions that follow:
beautiful green coat, his frilled shirt, and the little “…the back benches that were always empty, the
black silk cap-all embroidered, that he never wore village people sitting quietly like ourselves; old
except on inspection and prize days.” Hauser, with his three-cornered hat… Everybody
(i) What special attire is M. Hamel wearing, and looked sad; and Hauser had brought an old
what is unusual about it? primer, thumbed at the edges…”
Why does the narrator only notice it after (i) Who now fills the usually empty back benches,
calming down? and why is that surprising?
How does this differ from a normal school Why do these people appear sad?
day? What item does Hauser bring?
(ii) Why might M. Hamel dress in his best clothes (ii) How might their presence change the
on this occasion? classroom’s atmosphere?
How does this create a solemn mood in the Why is this moment meaningful for both
classroom? villagers and students?

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Ch 5 : The Last Lesson

(v) “They were sorry… that they had not gone to Ans
school more,” the extract notes. (i) He wants to prove he’s learned something
How does this line capture their remorse? before French lessons end.
Why might gratitude and sadness blend He stumbles immediately, showing he’s still
together in this final lesson? unprepared.
Ans He feels mortified and disappointed.
(ii) It’s “dreadful” because he never bothered to
(i) He dons his best clothes to mark the final master it, and now time has run out.
French lesson as a special ceremony, honoring It underscores how he’s paying for past
the language. neglect.
Villagers regret not attending classes faithfully. (iii) His nervousness and inability to continue
They now deeply respect M. Hamel, speaking highlight his remorse for not
acknowledging the value of his long service. studying harder sooner.
(ii) After four decades of dedication, he’s forced (iv) Messing up right at the start mirrors how
to stop teaching French. little he’s absorbed.
This underscores the heavy loss-his life’s He’s embarrassed to meet M. Hamel’s or
work is ending, and the community is losing a classmates’ eyes, fearing judgment.
devoted teacher. (v) He’s willing to give anything to succeed, but
(iii) It reveals mutual respect: the community it’s too late.
recognizes his devotion, and he has consistently Failing now is devastating because this was
served them by teaching their language. his final chance to show progress and respect
(iv) His formal clothing and their regretful for the lesson.
presence make the event feel like a memorial
for the French lessons.
All are emotionally invested, mourning the
end of an era. 14. Read the following extract from the text and
(v) It shows they realize too late how precious answer the questions that follow:
education is. “…‘Bah! I’ve plenty of time. I’ll learn it tomorrow.’
They feel both thankful for M. Hamel’s And now you see where we’ve come out. … Those
efforts and sorrowful for not making the most fellows out there will say, ‘You pretend to be
of them while they could. Frenchmen, and yet you can neither speak nor
write your own language?’”
13. Read the following extract from the text and (i) Which procrastinating mindset does M.
answer the questions that follow: Hamel criticize here?
“…What would I not have given to be able to say Why is this problematic in the current
that dreadful rule for the participle… But I got situation?
mixed up on the first words and stood there… not Who might judge the students for their lack
daring to look up.” of French?
(i) Why does the narrator desperately want to (ii) How does this link language proficiency to
recite the participle rule correctly? national identity?
What happens when he tries? Why is losing French lessons so harmful?
How does he feel in that moment? (iii) What does M. Hamel’s tone reveal about his
(ii) Why does he refer to the rule as “dreadful”? frustration?
How might it reflect missed opportunities? (iv) In what ways does putting things off until
(iii) What does his reaction show about his regret? “tomorrow” highlight the dangers of
(iv) In what ways does stumbling on the first complacency?
words symbolize his unpreparedness? Why might the foreign occupiers mock their
Why might he avoid looking up? weak French?
(v) “What would I not have given…” the narrator (v) “‘You pretend to be Frenchmen…yet you can
sighs. neither speak nor write…’” warns M. Hamel.
How does this line reveal his longing to How does this line show the serious
succeed? consequences of neglect?
Why might failing at this critical moment feel Do you think this critique is justified?
so crushing?

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(v) “My last French lesson! … Oh, how sorry I How does this line show a newfound
was…” he laments. appreciation?
How does this line convey his regret? What does it reveal about the value of
Why does losing the opportunity to learn learning in the narrator’s eyes?
French affect him so profoundly?
Ans
Ans (i) He used to dislike carrying them, but now
(i) He realizes this lesson is his final chance to treasures them, realizing they’re precious
study French formally, and he barely knows tools of knowledge.
how to write. He also feels sad about M. Hamel leaving, no
He feels alarmed that he wasted past longer fixating on his stern manner.
opportunities. It shows he regrets not valuing them sooner.
(ii) He was busy hunting for birds’ eggs or playing (ii) He found studying dull or heavy.
instead of focusing on classwork. With French lessons ending, he sees their true
Now these diversions seem unimportant worth, wishing he had more time to learn.
compared to the chance to learn. (iii) He’s shifting from indifference to deep
(iii) He only recognizes the value of his lessons appreciation, grasping how crucial these final
when they’re about to be taken away, moments of instruction are.
suggesting regret and a newfound desire to (iv) The finality of M. Hamel’s exit makes any
study. strictness seem minor compared to losing him
(iv) He suddenly finds it essential, wishing he had entirely.
taken it seriously before. He now views him as a caring teacher rather
He realizes he can’t recover the lost time. than a cranky disciplinarian.
(v) The exclamation shows deep remorse-he’s (v) Calling them “old friends” implies a heartfelt
shocked at how unprepared he is. bond he never acknowledged before.
Without continued French lessons, he feels He realizes education holds greater
he’s losing a key part of his identity and importance than he ever imagined, marking
education. real emotional growth.

11. Read the following extract from the text and 12. Read the following extract from the text and
answer the questions that follow: answer the questions that follow:
“…My books, that had seemed such a nuisance a “…It was in honour of this last lesson that he
while ago… were old friends now that I couldn’t had put on his fine Sunday clothes… They were
give up. And M. Hamel, too; the idea that he was sorry… that they had not gone to school more. It
going away… made me forget all about his ruler was their way of thanking our master for his forty
and how cranky he was.” years of faithful service…”
(i) What change in attitude does the narrator (i) Why does M. Hamel wear his Sunday
show toward his books? clothes, and how is that linked to the lesson’s
How does he now feel about M. Hamel? significance?
What does this suggest about taking things How do the villagers feel about their own
for granted? missed opportunities?
(ii) Why might these same books have felt like a What does this say about their view of M.
burden before? Hamel now?
How does facing the loss of French lessons (ii) Why might the teacher’s “forty years of
alter his perception? faithful service” be especially meaningful
(iii) What does this reveal about the emotional here?
shift happening in the narrator? How does this detail emphasize the sadness of
(iv) In what ways does M. Hamel’s departure the occasion?
overshadow old complaints about his (iii) What does it show about the bond between
strictness? M. Hamel and the community?
Why might the narrator suddenly see him (iv) In what ways do the villagers’ regrets and
differently? M. Hamel’s attire combine to make the day
(v) “…they were old friends now that I couldn’t solemn?
give up,” he says about his books. Why is it an emotional moment for all?

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Ch 5 : The Last Lesson

(iii) What does it reveal about the unity of the (iv) In what ways does this sudden switch
community on this day? highlight the value of their native tongue?
(iv) In what ways does the sight of older villagers Why might the students feel shocked?
attending class affect the narrator’s view of (v) “This is your last French lesson,” M. Hamel
learning? declares.
Why might they choose this moment to join? How does this line capture the finality of the
(v) “Hauser had brought an old primer, thumbed moment?
at the edges,” the narrator notes. Why might such a forced change deeply affect
How does this detail reflect their regrets? their sense of identity?
What does it say about their renewed respect
Ans
for education?
(i) He tells them that French lessons will end
Ans because Berlin has ordered German to be
(i) Older villagers-like Hauser and former town taught instead.
officials-fill the back benches, which is unusual It’s the final time he can teach them French.
because they normally don’t attend. The students are taken aback or saddened by
They look sad, possibly regretting not this news.
studying more in the past. (ii) They are under occupation, so the authorities
Hauser brought a well-worn primer. mandate German as the official school
(ii) It adds gravity and sentiment, as even adults language.
realize the day’s importance and want to pay This essentially ends French schooling,
respect to French lessons. changing how the children learn.
This final lesson impacts everyone, not just (iii) He’s solemn but kind, indicating he’s deeply
children. upset, yet wants to remain calm for the
(iii) They’re coming together to honor M. Hamel children’s sake.
and the French language, symbolizing (iv) They suddenly realize they’re losing the
collective loss and solidarity. chance to speak and study French openly.
(iv) The narrator sees that school isn’t merely for It shocks them to see an integral part of their
kids; adults, too, recognize its value. culture replaced.
They attend now because it’s the last chance (v) His statement underscores that they can’t
to show support and remorse for neglected return to “normal” French classes ever again.
learning. Such a forced transition threatens their
(v) The primer, with its worn edges, represents cultural heritage, making them fear losing a
past opportunities they overlooked. piece of who they are.
It shows they’ve rediscovered the importance
of schooling, even if it’s almost too late. 10. Read the following extract from the text and
answer the questions that follow:
9. Read the following extract from the text and “My last French lesson! Why, I hardly knew how
answer the questions that follow: to write! I should never learn any more! … Oh,
“Then, in the same grave and gentle tone, he said, how sorry I was for not learning my lessons, for
‘My children, this is the last lesson I shall give seeking birds’ eggs or going sliding on the Saar!”
you. The order has come from Berlin to teach (i) What realization strikes the narrator about
only German in the schools… This is your last this “last lesson”?
French lesson.” Why does he mention hardly knowing how
(i) What major announcement does M. Hamel to write?
share here? How does he feel about his past priorities?
“Why does he call it the “last lesson”? (ii) Which activities did he pursue instead of
How do the students respond initially? studying?
(ii) Why is the language of instruction changing? Why do they seem trivial now?
How do you think this impacts the school’s (iii) What does this regret reveal about his sudden
future? change of heart?
(iii) How does M. Hamel’s “grave and gentle tone” (iv) In what ways does he now view the importance
show his own feelings? of learning?
Why might he feel time has slipped away?

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Ans underscores the loss?

(i) He scorns the habit of always postponing Ans
study: “I’ll learn it tomorrow.”
Now that French is banned, they lack the (i) He writes “Vive La France!” in bold letters,
language skills they should have had. showing his patriotic spirit.
The occupying forces (Prussians) can ridicule It’s crucial because it’s his last act as a French
them. teacher, and students understand it’s a silent
(ii) He shows that speaking French is part of farewell.
being truly French—losing that skill erodes They likely feel both moved and saddened.
identity. (ii) He’s overwhelmed, leaning his head in sorrow
Banning the language robs them of cultural or resignation.
pride and unity. Quietly dismissing them without further
(iii) He sounds exasperated, regretting everyone’s speech intensifies the solemnity, leaving them
laziness that led to this vulnerability. with the weight of his final words.
(iv) Delaying their lessons left them poorly (iii) His chalked message and abrupt end mark the
equipped when the language was abruptly final stand for French lessons.
taken away. They’re witnessing the literal closing of their
The occupiers’ taunts underscore how a French education.
once-strong identity can be undermined by (iv) He’s declaring love and loyalty to France,
ignorance. even as teaching French is banned.
(v) He’s stressing that they can’t claim French This farewell phrase is his way of resisting
heritage if they’ve failed to learn their own cultural erasure.
tongue. (v) It carries patriotic fervor but also the pain of
Yes, it’s fair because their procrastination has losing the right to teach in French.
real consequences; they’re now powerless to Some may see it as a spark of hope-reminding
change it. them to keep their language alive-while it
also underscores the deep loss of formal
15. Read the following extract from the text and instruction.
answer the questions that follow:
“…He wrote as large as he could-‘Vive La France!’
Then he stopped and leaned his head against the www.nodia.i
wall, and, without a word, he made a gesture to
us with his hand-‘School is dismissed-you may
go.’”
(i) What final phrase does M. Hamel write, and
in what manner?
Why is this message significant?
How do the students react to this gesture?
(ii) What does his posture-leaning his head
against the wall-suggest about his feelings?
Why might dismissing class silently be so
impactful?
(iii) How does this moment symbolize the end of
an era for the French language in their school?
(iv) In what ways does writing “Vive La France!”
highlight M. Hamel’s devotion to his mother
tongue?
Why is it such a powerful parting statement?
(v) “Vive La France!” he proclaims with all his
might.
How does this line capture both pride and
heartbreak?
Do you think it offers a final hope or

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 297

TREASURE CHEST
A Collection of ICSE Short Stories & Poems

POETRY

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Ch 6 : Seperator 2

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 299

CHAPTER
1
HAUNTED HOUSES

INTRODUCTIO 2. Encounters with Ghosts : According to the

speaker, these spirits can be found in various
parts of the house-the stairs, the doorway, and
In “Haunted Houses,” H.W. Longfellow presents the passages. While they remain invisible and
a kinder view of ghosts, portraying them as inaudible, their presence can still be sensed in the
gentle presences rather than frightening spirits. surrounding air.
The poem suggests that these souls remain in the 3. Ghosts at Gatherings : Even dinner parties are
houses where they once lived, quietly watching said to have more guests than those actually
over those they loved. The speaker-possibly a invited. The uninvited guests are the ghosts,
ghost himself-perceives these wandering spirits silently occupying the same space as the living.
and shows us that even in death, people do not
4. The Speaker’s Unique Perspective : The speaker
completely vanish. They stay connected to their
suggests they might be a ghost themselves because
former homes and loved ones in a peaceful, caring
they can perceive these spirits. Meanwhile, a
way.
stranger sitting at the fireside remains oblivious
to the ghostly presence and only sees the living
world.
ABOUT THE POE 5. Claim Over the Houses : The speaker explains
that ghosts do not really own the houses they
roam; once, when alive, they possessed them.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was a beloved Now, forgotten in their graves, they symbolically
19th-century American poet known for drawing stretch out their hands to reclaim what was once
on history and legend in his writing. His works, theirs and resist letting their descendants inherit
such as The Song of Hiawatha (inspired by it.
Native American oral traditions) and Paul
6. Ghostly Atmosphere Around the Living World:
Revere’s Ride (highlighting a pivotal moment in
The speaker likens the ghostly realm to an
the Revolutionary War), helped shape America’s
atmosphere that envelopes the world of the living.
cultural identity. By weaving storytelling with
It coexists with everyday life, unseen yet ever-
national history, Longfellow gained recognition
present.
as a chronicler of the American experience. His
gentle, lyrical style and focus on shared heritage 7. Balance in Human Life : Human life is portrayed
made his poetry widely cherished. as being driven by two forces: the desire for
immediate enjoyment and the aspiration to
achieve. This tension helps maintain a kind of
equilibrium between what we take in and what
SUMMAR we produce.
8. Moonlight as a Bridge : Finally, the speaker
compares moonlight to a bridge that links the
1. Ghostly Presence in All Houses : The speaker
world of the living and the world of ghosts. At
highlights that every house is visited by the
night, this moonlit bridge inspires dreams and
spirits of those who once lived and died there.
imaginings, which in turn guide people to pursue
These ghosts quietly enter through open doors,
their goals in the daytime.
moving about lightly without making a sound.

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Ch 1 : Haunted Houses

WORD MEANINGS & EXPLANATIO Word Meaning

1. Illuminated : lighted
2. Thronged : crowded
Extract 1
3. Inoffensive : harmless
All houses wherein men have lived and died
Are haunted houses. Through the open doors Explanation
The harmless phantoms on their errands glide, The poet reiterates their presence at the dining
With feet that make no sound upon the floors. table, where the number of guests exceeds the
Word Meaning host’s invitation due to the uninvited ghosts. The
1. Haunted : visited by ghosts well-lit hall is filled with silent, harmless spirits.
2. Phantoms : ghosts The poet draws a comparison between the ghosts
3. Errands : tasks and the paintings on the wall, emphasizing their
4. Glide : move lightly and smoothly quiet and unobtrusive nature. Like the paintings,
the ghosts remain still and blend into the
Explanation surroundings, their presence adding a mysterious
The poet portrays houses as places where people yet serene quality to the space.
are born, live, and eventually die. He mentions that
these houses are inhabited by silent ghosts, which Extract 4
enter quietly through open doors. These ghosts The stranger at my fireside cannot see
are gentle and harmless, moving about without The forms I see, nor hear the sounds I hear;
causing any disturbance. Their presence is subtle, He but perceives what is; while unto me
and they roam around performing their tasks All that has been is visible and clear.
without creating any noise. The poet emphasizes Word Meaning
the calm and unobtrusive nature of these spirits as 1. Forms : shapes
they inhabit the homes of the living. 2. Perceive : see
Extract 2 Explanation
We meet them at the door way, on the stair, The poet describes a stranger seated beside him
Along the passages they come and go, by the fireplace, unaware of the ghostly forms
Impalpable impressions on the air, and sounds the poet perceives. The stranger sees
A sense of something moving to and fro. only the living and the present, while the poet
Word Meaning sees everything, from the past to the present.
1. Impalpable : something or somebody that This suggests that the speaker might himself be
cannot be felt physically a ghost, capable of observing other spirits, unlike
the stranger, who is likely human and limited to
Explanation perceiving the tangible world. This subtle contrast
The poet explains that these ghosts are present hints at the poet’s spectral nature.
everywhere-at doors, on stairs, and moving
through passages. They are intangible and Extract 5
cannot be touched or physically felt, yet their We have no title-deeds to house or lands;
presence is undeniable. Their movements leave Owners and occupants of earlier dates
subtle impressions in the air, creating an almost From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands,
imperceptible sense of activity around them. One And hold in mortmain still their old estates.
can feel a faint stirring, as though the air itself Word Meaning
carries the memory of their movements. These 1. Title-deeds : legal documents of ownership
unseen beings silently inhabit the spaces, blending 2. Stretch : spread
into the atmosphere with an otherworldly stillness. 3. Hold in mortmain : hold in inalienable
possession
Extract 3
There are more guests at table than the hosts Explanation
Invited; the illuminated hall The ghosts no longer own the houses but once did
Is thronged with quiet, inoffensive ghosts, when they were alive. Buried in forgotten graves,
As silent as the pictures on the wall. they extend dusty hands from where they rest,

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 301

yearning to reclaim their former properties. Their Extract 8

hands, filled with dust, symbolize their lingering These perturbations, this perpetual jar
desire to possess the houses they once owned. Of earthly wants and aspirations high,
They resist relinquishing these properties to their Come from the influence of an unseen star,
descendants, clinging to the attachment of their past An undiscovered planet in our sky.
lives, unwilling to let go of what was once theirs.
Word Meaning
Extract 6 1. Perturbations : mental disturbances
The spirit-world around this world of sense 2. Perpetual jar : here, immortal soul
Floats like an atmosphere, and everywhere 3. Aspirations : aim, ambition
Wafts through these earthly mists and Explanation
vapoursdense Human life is driven by desires and ambitions,
A vital breath of more ethereal air. often leading to mental unrest and sorrow. These
Word Meaning unfulfilled aspirations disturb our peace and create
1. World of sense : real world that can be felt by inner turmoil. Adding to this complexity, our
the senses mind and thought process seem to be influenced
2. Wafts : passes lightly by a mysterious celestial force-perhaps a star or an
3. Vital : important unknown planet in the sky. This unseen influence
4. Ethereal air : other worldly atmosphere shapes our emotions and decisions, weaving an
Explanation enigmatic connection between the universe and
the workings of the human mind.
The poet describes the coexistence of two worlds:
the living and the dead. The world of the dead, or Extract 9
ghosts, surrounds the living, blending seamlessly And as the moon from some dark gate of cloud
into the atmosphere. Like mist and dense vapors, Throws o’er the sea a floating bridge of light,
the realm of the dead lightly mingles with the Across whose trembling planks our fancies crowd
living, creating a subtle connection. This unseen Into the realm of mystery and night,-
world forms an integral part of the earthly
environment, emphasizing its pervasive and Word Meaning
intertwined presence with the world of the living. 1. Planks : flat pieces of wood
2. Fancies : imaginations
Extract 7 3. Realm : region
Our little lives are kept in equipoise Explanation
By opposite attractions and desires; The moonlight traveling from the moon to the
The struggle of the instinct that enjoys, earth resembles a shimmering bridge of light. It
And the more noble instinct that aspires. gently trembles in the air, creating a mystical
Word Meaning connection. At night, as we dream, this ethereal
1. Equipoise : balance light inspires imaginations that influence and
2. Aspires : desires guide our actions. Its presence stirs creativity and
3. Instinct : natural reaction shapes our thoughts, bridging the realms of reality
4. Noble : good, virtuous and dreams. The moonlight becomes a subtle yet
Explanation powerful force, enriching our minds with visions
that direct and inspire our journey through life.
Life is balanced between the desire to enjoy and
the virtuous goal of achieving. This ongoing Extract 10
dilemma fosters harmony, blending joy with So from the world of spirits there descends
purpose. The pursuit of pleasure provides A bridge of light, connecting it with this,
happiness, while striving for achievement adds O’er whose unsteady floor, that sways and bends,
meaning, creating a well-rounded existence. Wander our thoughts above the dark abyss.
Together, these contrasting aspirations shape a
balanced human life, where neither indulgence Word Meaning
nor ambition overshadows the other, ensuring 1. Descends : comes down
fulfillment and harmony in our daily experiences. 2. Unsteady : moving

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Ch 1 : Haunted Houses

Ans believe they possess these houses, the poet implies

(b) Over a swaying “bridge of light” ancestral spirits continue to ‘own’ them in spirit.
Longfellow’s final lines compare moonlight’s path 29. In Haunted Houses, the line “We meet them at
to a “bridge” bridging spirits and living. This the door-way, on the stair” suggests that the
unsteady route lets our minds wander “above the ghosts ______.
dark abyss” into mysterious, spiritual territory. (a) remain locked in the basement
(b) appear only once a year
26. The theme of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s
(c) are encountered throughout the house’s
poem Haunted Houses is ______.
passages
(a) the destruction caused by ghosts
(d) vanish whenever morning arrives
(b) the lingering presence of past spirits in human
dwellings Ans
(c) the danger of haunted castles at midnight (c) are encountered throughout the house’s
(d) the solemnity of nature in the countryside passages
Ans Longfellow emphasizes how these phantoms are
(b) the lingering presence of past spirits in human everywhere: on stairs, at doorways, in halls. Their
dwellings constant, subtle presence hints that any spot of
the home can be spiritually “haunted.”
Longfellow emphasizes that every home is
“haunted” by those who lived and died there. 30. According to Longfellow, how does the stranger
Their spirits remain unseen but ever-present, at the fireside perceive the home?
reflecting his core idea that ghosts still inhabit (a) He senses ghostly shapes more vividly
familiar rooms. (b) He only notices the current reality, not past
spirits
27. The poem Haunted Houses suggests that these
(c) He acknowledges a crowd of unseen visitors
ghosts are ______.
(d) He tries to communicate directly with ghosts
(a) mischievous and disruptive
(b) visible only at noon Ans
(c) harmless and nearly silent (b) He only notices the current reality, not past
(d) material in form, with solid footsteps spirits
Ans
The poet contrasts the stranger’s limited
(c) harmless and nearly silent perception of “what is” against the speaker’s
Longfellow describes them as “harmless ability to see all that has been, implying the
phantoms” who glide softly through open doors stranger cannot detect or fathom the hidden
and corridors, creating no noise. Their presence phantoms.
is compared to faint impressions on air-quiet,
31. Which phrase from Haunted Houses reinforces
inoffensive, unobtrusive.
the idea that these spirits are gentle rather than
28. In Haunted Houses, the poet’s perspective on malevolent?
ownership of property is that ______. (a) “The harmless phantoms on their errands
(a) once a legal deed is signed, spirits vanish glide”
(b) no one truly owns land; past dwellers still (b) “An uproar of wailing ghosts in the halls”
‘hold’ it (c) “Terrifying shapes, with shrieks unknown”
(c) the living alone have full, rightful claim to (d) “Frenzied specters destroying the living”
estates Ans
(d) neighbors share equal rights to a single
property (a) “The harmless phantoms on their errands
Ans glide”

(b) no one truly owns land; past dwellers still Describing them as “harmless” clarifies they pose
‘hold’ it no threat. They’re quiet visitors, moving with no
negative intent, reinforcing the poem’s calm view
Longfellow presents an idea of “dusty hands” of ghostly presences sharing the home.
from graves asserting claims. Although the living

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 303

Ans 7. What does “the spirit-world around this world of

(c) There are more (ghosts) than the host invited sense” do, as per the poem?
(a) Floats like an atmosphere
Longfellow states the hall is “thronged with quiet,
(b) Disappears at midnight
inoffensive ghosts.” Despite the host only inviting
(c) Glows only under sunlight
certain guests, additional “unseen” ones crowd
(d) Sings a soft lullaby
the space, though they remain silent as the dead.
Ans
4. How does Longfellow compare these ghosts to
pictures? (a) Floats like an atmosphere
(a) They’re bright and colorful The poem describes a spiritual realm enveloping
(b) They’re as silent as pictures on the wall our tangible reality “like an atmosphere,” subtly
(c) They fade like old photos permeating the everyday world with ghostly
(d) They terrify onlookers presence we might not consciously detect.
Ans 8. The poem says this spirit-world passes lightly
(b) They’re as silent as pictures on the wall through “earthly mists and vapours.” Which
phrase describes this movement?
The poem explicitly calls them “quiet, inoffensive
(a) It struggles heavily
ghosts... as silent as the pictures.” This simile
(b) It wafts like a vital breath
underscores their muted, still presence, suggesting
(c) It collides with the living
they pose no disturbance to the living.
(d) It devours all sunshine
Ans
(b) It wafts like a vital breath
5. In the poem, what can the stranger at the fireside Longfellow uses “a vital breath of more ethereal
NOT do? air” to show how gently the spirit realm mingles
(a) See or hear the ghosts with earthly existence, implying a delicate, life-
(b) Feel the room’s warmth filled presence crossing invisible boundaries.
(c) Understand the occupant’s language
(d) Notice the poet’s presence 9. Our “little lives” remain in balance due to:
(a) Divine intervention
Ans
(b) Unchanging routines
(a) See or hear the ghosts (c) Opposing forces-pleasure and aspiration
Longfellow depicts a “stranger” who only perceives (d) The ghostly caretaker of each house
normal reality. He cannot detect phantoms or Ans
strange sounds that the speaker does, emphasizing
(c) Opposing forces-pleasure and aspiration
how the living remain blind to spirit presences.
The poem highlights an “instinct that enjoys”
6. According to the poet, who actually owns or holds versus “the more noble instinct that aspires,”
the houses and lands? capturing humanity’s dual pull between indulgence
(a) Recent buyers and higher ambitions, sustaining equilibrium.
(b) The living occupants
(c) Ghostly ancestors from forgotten graves 10. The “perpetual jar of earthly wants” arises from:
(d) Legal officials with deeds (a) Overly loud neighbors
(b) Harmless phantoms seeking attention
Ans
(c) An unseen influence, like a hidden star
(c) Ghostly ancestors from forgotten graves (d) A loud marketplace
Longfellow suggests that while people believe Ans
they hold deeds, earlier owners’ spirits still claim
(c) An unseen influence, like a hidden star
those estates from their graves. Their “dusty
hands” metaphorically cling to property they Longfellow suggests humans’ material cravings
once possessed. and lofty hopes are impacted by a mysterious
“unseen star” or “undiscovered planet,” shaping

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Ch 1 : Haunted Houses

our internal struggles beyond our immediate Ans

awareness. (b) It sways and bends as thoughts wander

11. How does the poem describe moonlight emerging The poet depicts this intangible passage trembling
from “some dark gate of cloud”? under foot, illustrating how our minds or spirits
(a) Like a floating bridge of light travel shakily into mysterious regions, hinting at
(b) As a scorching flash dreamlike or imaginative vulnerability.
(c) As a colorless haze
15. Why does the poem refer to living homes as
(d) As thunder and lightning
“haunted houses”?
Ans (a) People refuse to decorate them
(a) Like a floating bridge of light (b) Past spirits linger invisibly within
(c) The roof always creaks at night
Longfellow employs a vivid image: the moonlight (d) Unfriendly neighbors remain outside
arcs across the sea, forming a luminous pathway.
This figurative “bridge” helps transition into Ans
deeper mysteries associated with spirits. (b) Past spirits linger invisibly within

12. What do our “fancies” do upon seeing this moonlit Longfellow’s central idea is that every house
bridge at sea? where people lived and died holds their ghosts.
(a) They sink, vanishing instantly These quiet inhabitants keep a subtle, ongoing
(b) They crowd across its trembling planks presence, justifying the term “haunted houses.”
(c) They remain unmoved or unaffected
16. How do these ghosts typically enter and move
(d) They fade into sleep
about the home?
Ans (a) Through open doors, silently
(b) They crowd across its trembling planks (b) They break windows
(c) They crash in, creating chaos
The poem frames imagination as traversing a (d) They tunnel beneath the floors
delicate light-bridge across the ocean at night.
This metaphorical crossing leads to “the realm Ans
of mystery,” symbolizing transcendence into (a) Through open doors, silently
unknown thought.
They slip in gently without footfall, as the poem
13. To what does the poet compare the “bridge of suggests. Their presence isn’t disruptive, but
light” descending from the spirit-world? gliding and unobtrusive, reflecting Longfellow’s
(a) A link that connects spirits and the living portrayal of harmless specters coexisting with the
(b) A fence that repels all ghosts living.
(c) A dream that conjures illusions
(d) A locked gate with no key
Ans
17. What sense does the poet say we get when ghosts
(a) A link that connects spirits and the living
pass us on the stair or door?
Longfellow envisions a luminous, unstable (a) Fearful chills
“bridge” uniting mortal existence with the unseen (b) An intangible feeling of movement
realm, enabling thoughts or souls to cross into (c) A loud whisper calling our name
higher mysteries, akin to crossing from day into (d) A bright glow surrounding them
night.
Ans
14. What is said about the “unsteady floor” of that (b) An intangible feeling of movement
spirit-bridge?
Longfellow uses phrases like “impalpable
(a) It never shakes at all
impressions on the air” and “a sense of something
(b) It sways and bends as thoughts wander
moving” to convey that we can’t physically touch
(c) It disintegrates at daybreak
them but sense their invisible passing.
(d) It’s safe and unchanging

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 305

18. In the illuminated hall, how does Longfellow stretching out dusty hands, resisting relinquishing
describe these “quiet, inoffensive ghosts”? ownership even beyond death.
(a) They’re as silent as pictures
(b) They cause a disturbance 22. What is the effect of these ghosts wafting “through
(c) They vanish when lights turn on earthly mists and vapours dense”?
(d) They talk loudly among themselves (a) They become visible in daylight
(b) They subtly blend with the living world
Ans (c) They form a solid walkway
(a) They’re as silent as pictures (d) They keep trembling in fear
The poem explicitly compares them to “the Ans
pictures on the wall,” indicating their hush (b) They subtly blend with the living world
and harmlessness. They fill the space but stay
unobtrusive, creating no noisy disruption. Longfellow depicts a spiritual dimension that
overlaps our senses “like an atmosphere,” lightly
19. Why can the stranger at the fireside perceive less intermingling with daily life, reinforcing how
than the poet? closely the dead linger around the living.
(a) The stranger is partially deaf
(b) He sees only the present, not the past 23. The “opposite attractions and desires” within us
(c) He chooses to ignore all ghosts produce what, according to the poem?
(d) He’s afraid to ask the poet anything (a) Constant exhaustion
(b) Unending success
Ans (c) A balance or equipoise in life
(b) He sees only the present, not the past (d) Total confusion every day
Longfellow explains that the stranger discerns Ans
only the current, visible reality. The poet, attuned (c) A balance or equipoise in life
to historical memories and ghosts, perceives all
that transpired in the house before. Longfellow contrasts the instinct to enjoy with the
instinct to aspire, suggesting their push-and-pull
20. How does the poet hint he might be a ghost creates equilibrium in our “little lives,” balancing
himself? material joys and higher ambitions.
(a) He states, “I died last autumn”
(b) He sees forms the stranger doesn’t 24. Which cosmic influence does the poet say stirs
(c) He cracks the floorboards with his footsteps our “earthly wants and aspirations high”?
(d) He flees each time daylight arrives (a) The blazing sun overhead
(b) An unseen star or undiscovered planet
Ans (c) The next-door neighbor’s fortune
(b) He sees forms the stranger doesn’t (d) A magical comet from another galaxy
The speaker notes he can see past events and Ans
ghosts that the stranger cannot, implying a (b) An unseen star or undiscovered planet
supernatural vantage point-possibly that he’s
part of the same spectral realm. He describes a mysterious celestial body
influencing human desires. This imaginative
21. What do the “dusty hands” reaching from concept explains our constant “perturbations,” as
forgotten graves symbolize? if a hidden cosmic force shapes both wants and
(a) New blossoming flowers lofty dreams.
(b) Past owners still longing to own property
(c) Modern families giving up farmland 25. How do our thoughts travel between the human
(d) Courtiers begging for a king’s favor realm and the spirit realm at the poem’s
conclusion?
Ans (a) Through a firm steel bridge
(b) Past owners still longing to own property (b) Over a swaying “bridge of light”
(c) A stable stone path on the ground
The poem suggests deceased proprietors remain
(d) They never connect
attached to their former lands, metaphorically

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Ch 1 : Haunted Houses

39. When speaking of “trembling planks” across (c) sense

which “our fancies crowd,” the poet suggests (d) trick
______.
Ans
(a) men have no real imagination
(b) thoughts venture onto uncertain, dreamlike (a) sound
paths Their subtle movements leave no noise, reflecting
(c) confusion arises from bright sunshine the poem’s theme that ghostly presences are
(d) the planks lead to utter realism perceived only as faint impressions, not by
Ans footfalls or echoes heard throughout the house.

(b) thoughts venture onto uncertain, dreamlike 43. The poem hints that old owners still ______
paths the estates long after death.
The “trembling planks” are fragile, representing (a) abandon
how imagination journeys tenuously toward (b) claim
unknown possibilities. The poem thus frames (c) repay
mental exploration as a risky but captivating (d) sell
crossing into deeper insight. Ans
(b) claim
40. Finally, the poem’s concluding lines emphasize
that this bridge of light “connecting it with this” Though deceased, former occupants metaphorically
unites ______. hold on to their properties. Longfellow depicts
(a) the living realm with the spirit realm “dusty hands” from forgotten graves as symbols
(b) two warring kingdoms of lingering, inalienable ownership beyond mortal
(c) only illusions of day and night life.
(d) stale traditions with modern technology
44. Longfellow likens the spirit realm to an invisible
Ans layer of ______ enveloping our ordinary world.
(a) the living realm with the spirit realm (a) mist
(b) air
Longfellow’s last stanza portrays a luminous (c) fate
passage bridging the mortal world and the spirit- (d) fear
world. This unsteady crossing suggests how
thoughts, dreams, and ghosts mingle just above Ans
everyday perception. (b) air
He compares it to an atmosphere, gently
41. The poem portrays ghosts as ______ visitors
pervading the living realm. Although unseen, it’s
among the living.
ever-present, surrounding everyday senses with a
(a) vicious
subtle, ethereal influence from beyond.
(b) messy
(c) harmless 45. He contends our brief existence stays in ______,
(d) loud balanced between desires and noble goals.
Ans (a) error
(b) check
(c) harmless (c) doubt
Longfellow emphasizes that these spirits pose no (d) ruin
threat. They silently occupy homes once lived in,
Ans
conveying an inoffensive presence that coexists
quietly with the living inhabitants. (b) check
According to the poem, earthly pleasure and
42. The poet suggests these phantoms move about higher aspiration pull in opposite directions. By
with no audible ______. counterbalancing each other, they keep human
(a) sound life “in check,” preventing a lopsided pursuit of
(b) shadow only one side.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 307

32. The poem states “A sense of something moving to Ans

and fro.” This line conveys ______. (c) surrounds and intermingles with our senses
(a) a visible creature seen by all
Longfellow compares the spirit realm to air-light,
(b) an intangible feeling of ghostly movement
pervasive, everywhere. It envelops the tangible
(c) a chaotic storm in the hall
world softly, indicating a constant merging of
(d) loud footsteps on the upper floor
ghostly influences with everyday human life.
Ans
36. “Our little lives are kept in equipoise/By opposite
(b) an intangible feeling of ghostly movement attractions and desires” implies that ______.
Longfellow highlights an invisible presence that (a) human existence balances pleasure and
can’t be physically felt yet is sensed as it shifts. aspiration
This subtle motion hints at spirits passing by in a (b) all humans become ghostlike after they die
nearly imperceptible manner. (c) the poem highlights only sorrow and regret
(d) the speaker values illusions over realism
33. Longfellow’s mention of “quiet, inoffensive ghosts” Ans
who are “as silent as the pictures on the wall”
indicates ______. (a) human existence balances pleasure and
(a) the ghosts typically speak in low tones aspiration
(b) they cause sudden fear and panic Longfellow points to a necessary tension between
(c) they linger like décor, silent but present indulging in life’s immediate joys and pursuing
(d) they rest at night and vanish by dawn loftier ambitions. This dynamic equilibrium
Ans shapes how people navigate daily experiences.

(c) they linger like décor, silent but present 37. The “perpetual jar of earthly wants” arises from
The poet likens ghosts to inanimate wall-hangings- ______, according to the poem.
present yet making no sound. This simile shows (a) frequent wars with ghosts
their unobtrusive nature, coexisting with the (b) the poet’s personal envy
living without disturbing the household’s routine. (c) the pull of a mysterious cosmic influence
(d) neighbors demanding too much money
34. The line “We have no title-deeds to house or Ans
lands” suggests that ______. (c) the pull of a mysterious cosmic influence
(a) modern owners always lose legal papers
(b) ancestral spirits still claim a hold on these Longfellow suggests an “unseen star” or
estates “undiscovered planet” exerts cosmic sway on
(c) real estate is worthless in this village human cravings. This figurative force explains
(d) no one can ever inhabit these haunted ongoing tensions between material needs and
dwellings nobler aspirations.

Ans 38. By likening the moon’s light to a “floating bridge,”

(b) ancestral spirits still claim a hold on these the poem shows how ______.
estates (a) intense storms break that bridge
(b) the sea rejects any illusions
Longfellow emphasizes that despite living people (c) moonlight connects reality with mystery
thinking they own property, past occupants retain (d) the poet fears nighttime illusions
a spiritual, inalienable claim, symbolized by
“dusty hands” that refuse to relinquish ownership. Ans
(c) moonlight connects reality with mystery
35. “Floats like an atmosphere” describes how the
spirit-world ______. Longfellow envisions moonlight as a metaphorical
(a) disappears under sunlight bridge, allowing imaginative crossing from
(b) is heavier than the living realm the ordinary world into “mystery and night,”
(c) surrounds and intermingles with our senses underscoring the interplay between daily life and
(d) is an oppressive, thunderous force fantastical realms.

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Ch 1 : Haunted Houses

3. Sways : moves from side to side 5. Alliteration : The repetition of a consonant sound
4. Abyss : bottomless hole or space at the start of two or more consecutive words
Explanation Haunted houses
Little lives
The moonlight acts as a link between the world 6. Anaphora : when two or more consecutive lines
of spirits and the living. This trembling, wavering start with the same word.
bridge carries our thoughts into unknown, The stranger at my fireside cannot see
mysterious realms. From these realms arise The forms I see, nor hear the sounds I hear;
profound ideas and thoughts that take shape as 7. Antithesis : when opposite words are closely
dreams. These dreams, rich with mystery and placed.
meaning, influence our actions and guide our lived and died
deeds, bridging the spiritual and earthly worlds come and go
through the soft, luminous glow of the moon. To and fro

FIGURES OF SPEEC MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

The poem is structured with ten quatrains,
each stanza consisting of four lines of almost 1. According to the poem, what do the “harmless
equal length and arrangement. It abides by the phantoms” do as they enter the house?
traditional rhyme scheme abab. While the poem (a) They knock loudly
is mostly clear in its expression, the last stanza (b) They glide softly without noise
introduces an element of mysticism. (c) They dance in circles
Throughout the poem, the poet employs a variety (d) They slam doors
of figures of speech (literary devices) to enhance
the poem’s impact. These devices are used Ans
effectively to create sensuousness and emphasis. (b) They glide softly without noise
1. Enjambment : When a sentence continues to the Longfellow describes these ghosts as completely
next line without use of any punctuation mark at
silent, moving without making footfalls. Their
the end of the line. The device of enjambment has
presence is felt rather than heard, emphasizing
been used at various instances in the poem.
their harmless, subtle nature in the “haunted”
2. Simile : Comparison between two things using
home.
‘like’ or ‘as’.
inoffensive ghosts, 2. Which phrase best captures the ghosts’ movement
As silent as the pictures on the wall. inside the house?
The spirit-world around this world of sense (a) “A sense of something moving to and fro.”
Floats like an atmosphere (b) “A thunderous parade along corridors.”
3 Metaphor : an indirect comparison between the (c) “A bright flicker that vanishes at dawn.”
qualities of two things. (d) “A quick dash, leaving footprints.”
this perpetual jar
Ans
Of earthly wants and aspirations high
(here, the perpetual jar is used to denote the (a) “A sense of something moving to and fro.”
immortal soul) The poem emphasizes an intangible impression as
So from the world of spirits there descends ghosts pass by. They are present in each doorway
A bridge of light, connecting it with this, or stair, perceived only as shifting air rather than
(here, the bridge of light is a mysterious bridge solid, noisy figures.
which connects the human world and the ghostly
world) 3. What does the poet suggest about the number of
4. Personification : when a human quality is guests at a meal?
attributed to a non human or object. (a) Everyone is accounted for
And as the moon from some dark gate of cloud (b) People always dine alone
Throws o’er the sea a floating bridge of light, (c) There are more (ghosts) than the host invited
(here, the act of throwing personifies the moon) (d) The living outnumber the spirits

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46. Choose the option that orders these statements Ans

correctly: (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
1. The poet notes that houses where people
He first says more unseen guests join (1), describes
lived and died become haunted.
a bright hall filled with ghosts (2), likens them to
2. Ghosts glide silently on errands through open
silent pictures (3), and insists they’re inoffensive
doors.
4), reinforcing their gentle presence.
3. They make no sound with their feet upon the
floors. 49. Identify the proper arrangement here:
4. He calls these spirits “harmless phantoms.” 1. A stranger at the fireside fails to see or hear
(a) 2, 4, 1, 3 the ghosts.
(b) 4, 1, 3, 2 2. The poet sees everything from past to present.
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 3. The stranger only perceives current reality
(d) 1, 3, 4, 2 (“what is”).
Ans 4. The poem hints the speaker has a broader
vision.
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) 2, 1, 3, 4
First, the poet declares houses “haunted” (1), (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
then depicts ghosts sliding through open doors (c) 1, 2, 4, 3
(2), notes their soundless movement (3), and sums (d) 2, 4, 1, 3
up by calling them “harmless phantoms” (4).
Ans
47. Which option places these poetic ideas in logical (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
order?
First, the stranger can’t detect phantoms (1), only
1. Ghosts appear at doorways and stairs.
sees “what is” (3). Meanwhile, the poet sees all
2. The speaker senses “a movement to and fro.”
events (2), implying a special insight or vantage
3. They leave intangible impressions on the air.
(4) that surpasses the stranger’s view.
4. They come and go along the passages.
(a) 4, 2, 1, 3 50. Select the correct chronological flow:
(b) 1, 4, 3, 2 1. We have no actual title-deeds to property.
(c) 3, 1, 4, 2 2. Graves yield dusty hands still grasping their
(d) 1, 2, 4, 3 old estates.
Ans 3. Early owners, now forgotten, remain attached
to those lands.
(b) 1, 4, 3, 2 4. The poet suggests these ancestors never fully
First, ghosts show up at doorways/stairs (1), let go.
proceed through corridors (4), leave impalpable (a) 3, 1, 4, 2
traces (3), then the poem mentions “something (b) 2, 4, 3, 1
moving to and fro” (2), indicating subtle, restless (c) 1, 3, 2, 4
presence. (d) 4, 2, 1, 3

48. Decide the correct sequence of these statements: Ans

1. The poet comments on “more guests at table” (c) 1, 3, 2, 4
than the host invited.
He declares houses lack real ownership by the
2. The hall is illuminated and thronged by quiet
living (1), references earlier proprietors (3),
ghosts.
describes “dusty hands” from graves (2), and
3. He compares them to silent pictures on the
finally shows they refuse to relinquish their claims
wall.
(4).
4. The poem underscores their harmless nature.
(a) 2, 4, 1, 3 51. Decide which listing of statements aligns with the
(b) 4, 1, 3, 2 poem’s ideas:
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 1. The spirit-world surrounds our tangible world
(d) 3, 1, 2, 4 like an atmosphere.
2. It wafts through earthly mists and vapors.

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3. It is a vital breath of ethereal air. 54. Arrange the following lines in the poem’s
4. The living realm is entangled with the ghosts’ progression:
domain. 1. The moon from a cloud throws a floating
(a) 1, 3, 4, 2 bridge of light.
(b) 4, 1, 2, 3 2. This luminous path trembles above the sea.
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 3. Our imaginations cross it into mystery.
(d) 2, 4, 3, 1 4. The poet compares it to entry into “night.”
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4
Ans
(b) 2, 1, 4, 3
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 (c) 4, 3, 2, 1
First, the spirit-world floats like an atmosphere (d) 3, 1, 2, 4
(1), drifts lightly among earthly mists (2), bringing Ans
essential “ethereal air” (3), thereby linking the
ghostly realm with physical existence (4). (a) 1, 2, 3, 4
Longfellow describes the moon sending a “floating
52. Identify the correct sequence below: bridge of light” (1), then highlights how it quivers
1. Our small lives remain balanced (“equipoise”). (2). Next, our fancies traverse it (3), heading into
2. There’s a push-and-pull between joys and the “realm of mystery and night” (4).
higher aspirations.
3. This tension fosters a stable existence. 55. Select the best arrangement of these concluding
4. We experience “opposite attractions and ideas:
desires.” 1. A bridge of light comes from the spirit-world.
(a) 1, 4, 2, 3 2. It connects that realm with ours.
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4 3. This unsteady path sways and bends.
(c) 4, 2, 1, 3 4. Our thoughts wander above a dark abyss.
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2 (a) 2, 3, 1, 4
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4
Ans
(c) 4, 1, 3, 2
(c) 4, 2, 1, 3 (d) 3, 4, 2, 1
Longfellow first mentions “opposite attractions” Ans
(4), which cause a struggle between immediate
enjoyment and noble goals (2). This yields an (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
“equipoise” in life (1), sustaining stable daily He first says a radiant bridge descends from the
living (3). spirits’ domain (1), linking them to us (2). Then
describes it as unsteady (3), with our minds
53. Choose the correct order: venturing precariously above “the dark abyss”
1. The poet acknowledges mental disturbances (4).
from earthly wants.
2. Such aspirations originate under an unseen 56. Identify the correct relationship between these
cosmic influence. statements:
3. He calls it “an undiscovered planet.” Statement (1) : The speaker calls houses “haunted”
4. That star-like force shapes our daily longing after people have lived and died in them.
for more. Statement (2) : He believes only newly built
(a) 4, 3, 2, 1 houses can have ghosts.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(c) 2, 4, 3, 1 (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2 (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
Ans (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 Ans
First, the poet notes “perturbations” from worldly (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
desires (1), attributing them to an invisible star Longfellow’s poem says all houses inhabited by
(2), identified as an “undiscovered planet” (3), the living become haunted afterward. Nowhere
which guides humanity’s endless cravings (4).

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does it claim “new houses” alone hold ghosts. Yes, ghosts outnumber official guests. But
Thus, (1) is correct, while (2) contradicts the Longfellow calls them “inoffensive ghosts,”
poem. not harmful. They’re quietly present, so (2) is
incorrect-there’s no sign they’re threats.
57. Decide how statements (1) and (2) relate in
Haunted Houses: 60. Evaluate how statements (1) and (2) align:
Statement (1) : The speaker calls ghosts “harmless Statement (1) : A stranger by the fireside perceives
phantoms.” only the present reality.
Statement (2) : They glide through the house Statement (2) : The poet sees both present and
loudly, scaring the inhabitants. past events clearly.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (a) (1) and (2) have no link
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false (b) (1) is the cause for (2)
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (c) (2) is the cause for (1)
(d) (1) and (2) are independent (d) (1) and (2) contrast each other
Ans Ans
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (d) (1) and (2) contrast each other
He describes them as gentle, quiet presences, not While the stranger senses only immediate
disruptive forces. They enter silently, leaving no surroundings (1), the poet simultaneously discerns
noise on floors. Thus, (1) accurately reflects the historical presences (2). One is confined to “what
poem; (2) conflicts with Longfellow’s portrayal. is,” the other perceives “all that has been.”

58. Select the best interpretation regarding these 61. Identify the option that best describes these
statements: statements from the poem:
Statement (1) : Ghosts manifest on doorsteps and Statement (1) : Former occupants stretch “dusty
stairs. hands” from forgotten graves.
Statement (2) : They leave “impalpable impressions,” Statement (2) : They continue to hold property
impossible to physically feel. in “mortmain,” refusing to relinquish old estates.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (c) (1) and (2) are independent
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other (d) (1) is the cause for (2)
Ans Ans
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other (d) (1) is the cause for (2)
Because these phantoms appear in common Because these ancestral ghosts reach from the
walkways (1), they remain intangible or grave (1), the poem claims they still effectively
“impalpable” (2). Both statements work together, possess their once-owned land (“mortmain”)
describing silent apparitions who move about yet (2). The “dusty hands” concept underpins their
cannot be physically sensed. continued ownership.

59. Determine the correct relationship here: 62. Determine the relationship between the following
Statement (1) : “There are more guests at table statements:
than the hosts/Invited.” Statement (1) : The spirit-world “floats like an
Statement (2) : The poem insists these extra atmosphere” around us.
guests are dangerous intruders. Statement (2) : It remains separate, never
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false mingling with earthly life.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(d) (1) and (2) are independent
Ans
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false Ans
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false

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(iv) How do the words “come and go” clarify the Ans
phantoms’ behavior? (i) He suggests that unseen spirits far outnumber
(v) How does the reference to “moving to the living invitees, implying that departed
and fro” contribute to the poem’s sense of souls remain present and join social gatherings
atmosphere? silently, unnoticed by most.
Why might the poet depict them as constantly (ii) They pose no threat or disturbance, merely
in motion? existing in the background. Their presence
Ans lacks malice, reflecting a gentle coexistence
rather than a menacing intrusion on the
(i) He places them in ordinary locations like living world.
doorways and stairs, indicating that spirits (iii) They crowd within the bright hall, mingling
appear in commonly used spaces rather than in the very spaces where living guests
hidden corners, blending seamlessly with the assemble, yet remain unseen companions in
everyday life of the house. the household’s daily life.
(ii) They are described as intangible traces, (iv) They are likened to pictures for their silent,
invisible but perceptible. This suggests ever-present nature. Just as portraits watch
delicate, ghostly forms that cannot be grasped over gatherings without intruding, these
physically yet are sensed as faint hints of ghosts observe quietly, fixed within the
movement and presence. background of the home.
(iii) They are found at the doorway, on the stair, (v) The illuminated setting creates a calm, almost
and along the passages, suggesting they move welcoming scene.
through the main areas, close to the daily This image underscores the poem’s theme
routines of any household. that life and death overlap harmoniously,
(iv) “Come and go” highlights their transient with past presences quietly inhabiting modern
nature. They do not linger menacingly but spaces without fear or alarm.
pass in and out, suggesting a gentle ebb and
flow between the past and the present. 4. Read the following lines and answer the questions
(v) Their continuous motion creates a soft, that follow:
restless atmosphere, hinting that memory “The stranger at my fireside cannot see
and history never truly settle. The forms I see, nor hear the sounds I hear;
The poet might depict constant motion He but perceives what is; while unto me
to convey that memories are alive, always All that has been is visible and clear.”
stirring and shifting within our surroundings. (i) What does the poet imply about his personal
perception of the house?
3. Read the following lines and answer the questions (ii) How does this differ from what the “stranger”
that follow: experiences?
“There are more guests at table than the hosts (iii) Who might the “stranger” represent?
Invited; the illuminated hall (iv) Why does the poet emphasize “He but
Is thronged with quiet, inoffensive ghosts, perceives what is”?
As silent as the pictures on the wall.” (v) How do the poet’s views of ghosts differ from
(i) What does the poet imply about the number the traditional perception of ghosts?
of “guests” in the hall? How would you describe the mood that the
(ii) Why might these ghosts be described as poem evokes?
“quiet” and “inoffensive”? Give one reason for your answer.
(iii) Where do these ghosts gather according to Ans
the stanza?
(iv) What is the significance of comparing them (i) He perceives not only the present moment
to “pictures on the wall”? but also the lingering echoes of past events.
(v) What mood is evoked by the idea of an His heightened awareness grants him insight
“illuminated hall” filled with silent ghosts? into the spiritual or memory-laden layers of
Explain one way in which this image adds to the home.
the poem’s central theme. (ii) The stranger detects only current sights
and sounds, missing the invisible, historical

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Personification endows nonhuman elements (ii) How do these lines portray the phantoms as
with human traits. The moon “throws” light as “harmless”?
if actively tossing it, mirroring the poem’s line (iii) Where do these phantoms move about
personifying the celestial body. according to the extract?
(iv) Why might the poet emphasize that the
69. Which chosen line reproduces the figure of speech phantoms’ feet “make no sound”?
found in: (v) How does describing the phantoms as gliding
“As silent as the pictures on the wall”? through “open doors” shape the poem’s
(a) “These unoffending phantoms appear, then mood?
vanish.” Give one reason to explain why the poet might
(b) “As silent as the pictures on the wall.” choose to depict them this way.
(c) “Haunted visions flutter in the corridors.”
(d) “Half-formed shapes glide about slowly.” Ans

Ans (i) He implies that houses retain the presence

of past inhabitants. Rather than vacant
(b) “As silent as the pictures on the wall.” structures, they carry echoes of lives that
This line uses “as” to equate the ghosts’ silence to once filled them, making each home alive
the inanimate pictures, forming a simile. Like the with memories of those who died there.
poem’s usage, it underscores how quietly these (ii) They are depicted as harmless by moving
apparitions move. gently and quietly, neither disturbing the
living nor inducing fear. Their presence
70. Which option best exhibits the figure of speech is peaceful, suggesting a calm coexistence
hinted at by the phrase: between current residents and departed
“Owners and occupants of earlier dates... hold in spirits.
mortmain still their old estates”? (iii) They glide silently through the house’s open
(a) “They come and go with no footprints doors and floors, suggesting they traverse
behind.” familiar routes once taken in life, carrying
(b) “Time, the great devourer, spares no living on their errands in a ghostly, unobtrusive
soul.” manner.
(c) “Forgotten graves stretch dusty hands to (iv) By stressing that they make no sound, the
claim their land.” poet underscores their intangible, ethereal
(d) “Melancholy hearts yearn for a lost dawn.” quality. It highlights their otherworldly nature
Ans and suggests they inhabit a reality adjacent
to, but quieter than, our own.
(c) “Forgotten graves stretch dusty hands to
(v) They lend a sense of acceptance and continuity
claim their land.”
rather than terror.
Here, “dusty hands” metaphorically represents One reason for this portrayal is to show that
the deceased still “holding” property. Like the past merges seamlessly with the present,
in the poem, the idea of owners grasping land indicating an enduring bond between the
from beyond the grave functions as an implicit living and the departed.
comparison (metaphor).
2. Read the following lines and answer the questions
that follow:
EXTRACT BASED QUESTION “We meet them at the door-way, on the stair,
Along the passages they come and go,
Impalpable impressions on the air,
1. Read the following lines and answer the questions
A sense of something moving to and fro.”
that follow:
(i) How does the poet emphasize the everyday
“All houses wherein men have lived and died
nature of these encounters?
Are haunted houses. Through the open doors
(ii) What is meant by calling them “impalpable
The harmless phantoms on their errands glide,
impressions on the air”?
With feet that make no sound upon the floors.”
(iii) In which parts of the house are these phantoms
(i) What does the poet mean by calling every
encountered?
such house “haunted”?

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Longfellow states the spirit realm envelops our Longfellow parallels the moon’s luminous path
daily world like air, meaning it constantly mingles over the sea with another metaphoric light
with physical reality. Therefore, (2) is incorrect bridging living and spirit worlds. Both serve as
because the poem depicts active intermingling, transitional “bridges” that carry imagination into
not separation. hidden domains.

63. Decide which description fits these statements: 66. Which of the following lines contains the figure of
Statement (1) : Our lives find balance between speech found in the poem’s line:
pleasures and aspirations. “Floats like an atmosphere”?
Statement (2) : No tensions exist; life is wholly (a) “Ghosts thronged around the hall at night.”
carefree. (b) “Shadows fell in silent gloom.”
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (c) “The spirit-world around this world of sense/
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Floats like an atmosphere.”
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (d) “My sorrow rose as tall as mountains.”
(d) (1) and (2) have no direct link
Ans
Ans (c) “The spirit-world... Floats like an atmosphere.”
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false Here, “like” is used to compare the spirit-world’s
Longfellow highlights a tension between presence to an atmosphere, indicating a simile.
enjoyment and noble goals, calling it “equipoise.” This line directly mirrors the poem’s own wording,
By contrast, “no tensions” (2) conflicts with establishing a clear ‘like’ comparison.
the poem’s explicit mention of these competing
instincts. 67. Which option reflects the figure of speech
appearing in the line:
64. Select the correct relationship between statements “A sense of something moving to and fro”?
(1) and (2): (a) “Owners and occupants of earlier dates/From
Statement (1) : The poem references an “unseen graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands.”
star” that influences earthly ambitions. (b) “There are more guests at table than invited.”
Statement (2) : Such influence creates a “perpetual (c) “All houses... are haunted houses.”
jar” of desires and higher aims. (d) “We meet them at the door-way, on the
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false stair.”
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
Ans
(c) (1) is unrelated to (2)
(d) (1) is the cause for (2) (a) “Owners and occupants... stretch their dusty
hands.”
Ans
(d) (1) is the cause for (2) Though “to and fro” suggests opposing movements,
the poem’s antithesis is better captured by phrases
He attributes human restlessness to that hidden like “lived and died” or “owners and occupants.”
star, describing worldly wants and lofty aspirations Option (a) implies older owners still “occupy”
as its result. Hence, an “unseen star” (1) leads to anew, contrasting their past and present.
ongoing inner struggles (2).
68. Which excerpt exhibits the same figure of speech
65. Figure out how these concluding statements align: in the line:
Statement (1) : Moonlight forms a “floating “And as the moon... Throws o’er the sea a floating
bridge,” guiding our fancies into mystery. bridge of light”?
Statement (2) : A similar “bridge of light” descends (a) “More guests than the host called inside.”
from the spirit realm, linking it with ours. (b) “The moon... Throws o’er the sea a floating
(a) (1) and (2) are contradictory bridge of light.”
(b) (1) and (2) mirror each other (c) “Inoffensive ghosts, as silent as pictures.”
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) (d) “When the gloom descended, hearts sank
(d) (1) is false while (2) is true low.”
Ans Ans
(b) (1) and (2) mirror each other (b) “The moon... Throws o’er the sea...”

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resonances that the poet senses, suggesting a (iv) It visualizes long-gone spirits reclaiming their
lack of emotional or historical connection to earthly bonds, conjuring an image of old,
the house. dusty graves that still anchor them to the
(iii) The stranger represents anyone with no living world.
personal history in the home. This could be (v) He suggests that property is never truly ours
a visitor who lacks the deeper familiarity and alone, as past lives remain intertwined in it.
emotional ties that unveil past presences. This influence may persist because memories,
(iv) It underlines the stranger’s purely physical legacies, and emotional ties endure, outlasting
viewpoint, contrasting sharply with the poet’s mere legal claims.
deeper sensitivity to hidden histories and the
spiritual remnants within the home. 6. Read the following lines and answer the questions
(v) He depicts ghosts as peaceful and comforting that follow:
rather than frightening or hostile. “The spirit-world around this world of sense
He evokes a calm, reflective mood in the Floats like an atmosphere, and everywhere
poem. Wafts through these earthly mists and vapours
They are shown to exist alongside the living dense
in a tender, continuous bond with the past, A vital breath of more ethereal air.”
thus creating a soothing rather than terrifying (i) What does the poet mean by the “spirit-
atmosphere. world around this world of sense”?
(ii) How does likening it to an “atmosphere” shape
5. Read the following lines and answer the questions our understanding of this unseen realm?
that follow: (iii) Which word suggests that the earth is
“We have no title-deeds to house or lands; enveloped in something heavier or clouded?
Owners and occupants of earlier dates (iv) Why is this spirit-world described as offering
From graves forgotten stretch their dusty hands, “more ethereal air”?
And hold in mortmain still their old estates.” (v) In what way do these lines expand the poem’s
(i) Why does the poet suggest we have “no title- central theme of overlapping realities?
deeds” to houses and lands? Give one reason why the poet views this
(ii) How do the lines describe those who once spiritual presence as essential.
owned these properties?
Ans
(iii) Which key term indicates the lingering claim
of past owners? (i) He suggests a hidden dimension coexisting
(iv) Why might the poet use the phrase “dusty with our tangible reality. Beyond the five
hands” reaching from forgotten graves? senses lies a pervasive realm of spirits,
(v) What commentary on ownership does the intertwined yet often unnoticed by everyday
poet present here? perception.
Give one reason why past residents might (ii) Describing it as an atmosphere implies it is
continue to exert influence over present everywhere, surrounding us naturally like the
dwellings. air we breathe, indicating its constant yet
subtle influence on human life.
Ans (iii) “Mists” or “vapours dense” imply a heavier,
(i) He implies that legal documents are superficial obscured quality. These words stress that
compared to the deeper, enduring attachments earthly life is clouded, preventing many from
the dead maintain. True possession lies with perceiving the lighter spiritual domain.
the spirits whose lives shaped and still inhabit (iv) It suggests purity and subtlety. The spirit-
those spaces. world is depicted as light, refined, and able
(ii) They are earlier occupants, long departed yet to permeate where dense earthly concerns
continuing to reach out symbolically from the cannot, hinting at a purer force around us.
grave, indicating their undying connection to (v) They show that existence extends beyond
the property they once called home. physical boundaries, weaving spiritual
(iii) “Mortmain” stands out, suggesting a “dead elements through daily life.
hand” grip. It conveys how past owners The poet considers this presence vital as
maintain an unbroken hold on their estates, it sustains a sense of wonder and deeper
even beyond death. connectivity to the unseen.

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Ch 1 : Haunted Houses

7. Read the following lines and answer the questions (iv) What does likening this force to an “unseen
that follow: star” or “undiscovered planet” suggest?
“Our little lives are kept in equipoise (v) How does this cosmic metaphor deepen our
By opposite attractions and desires; insight into human conflict?
The struggle of the instinct that enjoys, Mention one reason why the poet uses
And the more noble instinct that aspires.” astronomical imagery.
(i) What does the poet mean by “our little
Ans
lives”?
(ii) How are these lives maintained in “equipoise”? (i) They are the ongoing inner conflicts and
(iii) What are the two instincts in conflict here? disturbances arising from the clash between
(iv) Why might the poet describe one instinct as everyday physical needs and loftier yearnings
“more noble”? for something more significant.
(v) How does the notion of “opposite attractions (ii) He portrays it as never-ending tension that
and desires” shape our understanding of disrupts us, reflecting the constant push-and-
human nature? pull of ambition, desire, and the quest for
Give one reason why the poet highlights this fulfillment in mortal life.
inner struggle. (iii) Some mysterious, hidden force-beyond
immediate comprehension-exerts a pull on
Ans our thoughts and ambitions, shaping our
(i) He refers to the brief, delicate span of human longings and struggles.
existence, emphasizing both its fragility and (iv) It implies there are enigmatic influences at
the everyday experiences that define our work, akin to gravitational forces we cannot
mortal journey. see but that nonetheless tug persistently on
(ii) They are balanced by differing urges: the pull our hearts and minds.
of immediate gratification against the push (v) By using cosmic language, the poet elevates
toward loftier goals. This delicate tension these internal conflicts, framing them as
keeps life from tipping too far in one direction. universal and profound.
(iii) One is the pursuit of pleasure or enjoyment, He employs this imagery to convey that
and the other is the higher yearning for moral human turmoil is part of a larger, often
or spiritual growth. These conflicting drives unseen, cosmic design.
reflect the human condition.
(iv) Because aspiration seeks to elevate us beyond 9. Read the following lines and answer the questions
simple indulgence. It involves ideals, virtue, that follow:
or personal development, surpassing base “And as the moon from some dark gate of cloud
desires in scope and significance. Throws o’er the sea a floating bridge of light,
(v) It shows humans as inherently torn between Across whose trembling planks our fancies crowd
longing for comfort and striving for higher Into the realm of mystery and night,-”
purposes. (i) What imagery does the poet use to describe
This struggle is highlighted to reveal our the moonlight?
depth: we evolve by wrestling with opposing (ii) How does the phrase “floating bridge of light”
forces within ourselves. capture the moon’s effect?
(iii) Which features in the extract suggest
8. Read the following lines and answer the questions movement or instability?
that follow: (iv) Why is this journey described as venturing
“These perturbations, this perpetual jar into “mystery and night”?
Of earthly wants and aspirations high, (v) How does this image illustrate the poem’s
Come from the influence of an unseen star exploration of crossing from the known to the
An undiscovered planet in our sky.” unknown?
(i) What is meant by “these perturbations”? Offer one reason why the poet depicts our
(ii) How does the poet describe the nature of this “fancies” as crowding onto this bridge.
“perpetual jar”? Ans
(iii) According to the extract, what influences our
(i) He likens moonlight to a bridge stretching
earthly struggles?
over dark waters, creating a vivid pathway

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that invites the imagination to travel beyond Our grasp on these ideas is precarious, subject
ordinary limits. to doubt and changing perspectives.
(ii) The moonlight is seen as a narrow, delicate (iv) They hover above the unknown, exploring
route that appears briefly, connecting distant profound questions of life and death.
points with a transient glow, symbolizing an Although the abyss is dark and mysterious,
ethereal passage between familiar shores and our thoughts traverse it, seeking answers or
unexplored realms. meaning.
(iii) Words like “trembling planks” emphasize (v) They emphasize the poem’s theme: life and
unsteady motion. They suggest a fragile death, past and present, are interwoven by a
crossing, indicating risk or excitement in tenuous bridge of memory and spirit.
stepping into the unknown. He underscores its swaying to highlight that
(iv) “Mystery and night” evoke the undiscovered this connection, though real, is delicate and
and the hidden. The darkness hints at all we easily disturbed.
cannot see clearly, encouraging a venture into
deeper, possibly unsettling, truths.
(v) It underscores humanity’s desire to explore www.nodia.i
beyond immediate reality, using imagination
to reach hidden spheres.
He shows our fantasies eagerly taking this
path, revealing our fascination with the
enigmatic and the unexplored.

10. Read the following lines and answer the questions

that follow:
“So from the world of spirits there descends
A bridge of light, connecting it with this,
O’er whose unsteady floor, that sways and bends,
Wander our thoughts above the dark abyss.”
(i) What does the poet mean by “a bridge of
light” descending from the spirit-world?
(ii) In what way does this bridge connect “it”
with “this”?
(iii) What does the poet suggest about the floor
being “unsteady”?
(iv) Why do our thoughts “wander . . . above the
dark abyss”?
(v) How do these closing lines encapsulate the
poem’s central idea of unseen connections?
Give one reason why the poet emphasizes the
bridge’s swaying nature.
Ans
(i) He envisions a metaphorical link between
the realm of spirits and the material world,
suggesting that glimpses of the unseen
periodically reach and interact with our
everyday lives.
(ii) It binds the immaterial (spirit realm) to
the tangible (earthly sphere), implying a
crossover where intangible forces and human
consciousness can briefly meet or exchange
impressions.
(iii) Its instability reflects our uncertainty in
understanding or trusting spiritual matters.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 319

CHAPTER
2
THE GLOVE AND THE LIONS

INTRODUCTIO the distinguished guests in the stands were the

Count de Lorge and his beloved, a lady whom the
king also admired.
The poem “The Glove and the Lions” by Leigh
2. The Ferocious Lions Enter : When the lions
Hunt is a captivating ballad that tells a story
appeared in the arena, they growled, roared,
in poetic form. It begins with King Francis
and bared their massive fangs. As they clashed,
arranging his favorite spectacle-a fierce lion
their blows flung clumps of mud into the air.
fight-to entertain his court. Among the crowd
Observing the brutal battle, the king remarked
is a young woman who, in a bid to prove her
that courageous men were better off safely seated,
lover’s devotion, carelessly tosses her glove into
rather than facing such deadly beasts.
the pit. She expects him to risk his life retrieving
3. A Bold Gamble : Seizing on the king’s comment,
it, but her plan backfires and reveals her vanity.
the Count’s lover devised a dramatic display to
Through this dramatic event, the poem highlights
prove her suitor’s bravery. She declared in front of
that true love does not thrive on showy displays.
the crowd that she would throw her glove into the
Instead, it teaches us that pride and love cannot
lions’ pit and have the Count retrieve it, thereby
exist together.
showcasing his love for her.
4. The Count’s Swift Action : With the lions
distracted, the Count confidently leaped into
ABOUT THE POE the arena, snatched the glove, and flung it at
his beloved’s face. His rapid movement allowed
Leigh Hunt (1784–1859) was a Romantic-era him to avoid the lions’ fury. The king publicly
writer, poet, essayist, editor, critic, and journalist approved of the Count’s deed, asserting it was a
in England. Born on 19th October 1784 in rightful response.
Southgate, London, he lived during the same 5. A Lesson in True Affection : Ultimately, the
period as famous poets like Keats, Byron, and lady’s plan revealed her pride and lack of genuine
Shelley. He was known for his vivid descriptions, love. By risking the Count’s life merely to display
lyrical poetry, and love of nature, as well as his his devotion, she proved that vanity had clouded
skill in creating mood and atmosphere. Hunt her affection. The king’s concluding remark
was also a courageous journalist who defended underscored that true love would never demand
personal freedoms, especially during the French such a perilous test.
Revolution. Among his famous works are “Jenny
Kiss’d Me,” “Captain Sword and Captain Pen,”
and “Abou Ben Adhem.” He passed away on 28th
August 1859. WORD MEANINGS & EXPLANATIO

Extract 1
SUMMAR King Francis was a hearty king, and loved a royal
sport,
1. The Benevolent King Francis : King Francis was And one day as his lions fought, sat looking on
celebrated for his kind nature and generosity. He the court;
derived great pleasure from watching lion fights, The nobles filled the benches, and the ladies in
which he organized in a grand stadium. Among their pride,

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

And ‘mongst them sat the Count de Lorge, with 9. Whisking : taking something somewhere
one for whom he sighed: quickly
And truly ’twas a gallant thing to see that Explanation
crowning show,
Valour and love, and a king above, and the royal The lions advance into the arena, prowling over
beasts below. its sloped surface and releasing menacing roars
that expose their terrible jaws. They bite, glare
Word Meaning at one another, and deliver devastating blows
1. Hearty : good-hearted powerful enough to stir the air. Rolling in the
2. Royal sport : here, lion fighting sand, they issue muffled growls as each tries to
3. Sighed : the king was enamoured of the lady’s overpower the other, their manes coated with mud
charms and was jealous of the count and blood spraying into the air. Observing such
4. Gallant : brave a fearsome fight, King Francis comments that it
5. Crowning : complete/perfect is far safer to remain outside the pit. He implies
6. Valour : bravery that taming such ferocious creatures would be
7. A king above : the reference may also be to beyond anyone’s capabilities.
God here
Explanation
Extract 3
In this opening scene, King Francis appears as De Lorge’s love o’erheard the King, a beauteous
a benevolent ruler who delights in watching lion lively dame
fights. On one particular day, he takes his place in With smiling lips and sharp bright eyes, which
the arena, joined by fellow nobles. Among them always seemed the same;
is the Count de Lorge, accompanied by a lady the She thought, the Count my lover is brave as brave
king himself finds appealing. The scene showcases can be;
a splendid blend of courage and love, with God- He surely would do wondrous things to show his
symbolized as the ultimate King-witnessing from love of me;
above, while the majestic lions battle in the pit King, ladies, lovers, all look on; the occasion is
below. divine;
I’ll drop my glove, to prove his love; great glory
Extract 2 will be mine.
Ramped and roared the lions, with horrid laughing Word Meaning
jaws; 1. Love: beloved
They bit, they glared, gave blows like beams, a 2. Beauteous: beautiful
wind went with their paws; 3. Lively: full of life, vivacious
With wallowing might and stifled roar they rolled 4. Dame: a young lady
on one another; 5. Wondrous: wonderful
Till all the pit with sand and mane was in a 6. Divine: heavenly, here rare
thunderous smother; 7. Drop: throw
The bloody foam above the bars came whisking 8. Glory: cause of pride or pleasure or both
through the air;
Said Francis then, “Faith, gentlemen, we’re better Explanation
here than there.” Upon overhearing King Francis’s remark, the
Word Meaning Count de Lorge’s beloved-an enchanting and
1. Ramped : walked on the slope spirited young woman-decides to demonstrate the
2. Horrid : horrible Count’s courage. Her bright eyes and ever-present
3. Glared : stared angrily smile reflect her confidence in his bravery. She
4. Beams : pieces of wood/electric beams announces a remarkable plan: she will toss her
(shocking) glove into the arena, expecting her valiant lover
5. Wallowing : rolling about (in mud or water) to retrieve it, thus proving his devotion in the
6. Stifled : suppressed presence of the king, the court, and the onlooking
7. Mane : long hair on the neck crowds.
8. Smother : cover

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Extract 4 2. Anaphora : when two or more consecutive lines

She dropped her glove, to prove his love, then start with the same word.
looked at him and smiled; And ‘ mongst them sat the Count de Lorge, with
He bowed, and in a moment leaped among the one for whom he sighed:
lions wild; And truly ’twas a gallant thing to see that
The leap was quick, return was quick, he has crowning show,
regained his place, 3. Alliteration : The repetition of a consonant sound
Then threw the glove, but not with love, right in at the start of two or more consecutive words
the lady’s face. Ramped and roared
“By God!” said Francis, “rightly done!” and he With wallowing
rose from where he sat: Ladies. Lovers
“No love,” quoth he, “but vanity, sets love a task Great glory
like that.” Then threw the
4. Assonance : It is a literary device involving the
Word Meaning repetition of the same or similar vowel sounds.
1. Bowed: bent down the head to show respect Here are a couple of assonance examples:
2. Leaped: jumped Loved a royal sport (repetition of “o”)
3. Quoth: said Crowing show (repetition of “o”)
4. Vanity: too much pride in one’s beauty,
achievements, etc.
5. Task: job, assignment
Explanation MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
Without hesitation, the lady drops her glove
into the midst of the lions, expecting her lover 1. According to the poem, which “royal sport” does
to prove his devotion. She smiles as the Count King Francis enjoy watching?
courteously bows and springs into the arena. (a) Jousting
Moving swiftly, he snatches the glove and returns (b) Bullfighting
before the lions can react. Once safe among the (c) Lion fighting
spectators, he hurls the glove at the lady’s face. (d) Archery
King Francis praises this response, declaring it
justified; he asserts that true love would never Ans
demand such a reckless demonstration. The lady’s (c) Lion fighting
pride, rather than genuine affection, was the root
In the poem’s opening lines, King Francis is shown
of her dangerous test for the Count.
presiding over lions engaged in combat. This
spectacle-lion fighting-is his favored entertainment
in the royal court.
FIGURES OF SPEEC
The poem is structured as a ballad, that is a poem 2. What does the poet describe happening in the
narrating a story. Rhyme scheme of the poem is arena below the King and nobles?
aabbcc. The plot thickens with the introduction of (a) A feast among knights
the king’s infatuation with the count’s beautiful (b) The lions biting, roaring, and battling
lady, adding variety to the story. The ballad ends (c) The crowd singing hymns
with a clear message for lovers: beware of going (d) A grand dance performance
too far in the name of love.
The poet employs minimal figurative language, Ans
instead focusing on clear storytelling. (b) The lions biting, roaring, and battling
1. Simile : A simile is a figure of speech that compares
The poem emphasizes the lions’ ferocious fight,
two things using “like” or “as” to emphasize their
with powerful blows, roaring, and rolling in the
similarities. Below are a few simile examples:
sand. Their violent struggle contrasts the court’s
Gave blows like beams
elevated seats and the King’s vantage point.
Brave as brave can be

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

69. Analyze how the lady hopes to benefit from the (iv) How does this scene create an atmosphere of
glove test, then place each statement properly: dramatic entertainment for onlookers?
Statement (1) : She expects applause once the (v) In what way is King Francis’s attitude toward
Count retrieves her glove. danger suggested here?
Statement (2) : Her triumphant plan collapses Does it reveal courage or mere fascination?
when the King denounces it as mere vanity. Give a reason.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Ans
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) and (2) reinforce each other (i) He appears robust, enjoying bold amusements
(d) (1) and (2) are independent that display his power and enthusiasm.
He’s shown as an active monarch who finds
Ans excitement in staging and watching fierce
(c) (1) and (2) reinforce each other animal contests.
She indeed wants public praise (1), but after the (ii) Because only a king with great resources
Count’s rebuke, King Francis calls it vanity (2). would host dangerous lion fights, these lines
Both statements harmonize: her scheme’s goal is imply it’s a lavish pastime suited to a ruler’s
overshadowed by scornful condemnation. grandeur and taste for spectacle.
(iii) He’s seated where he can command attention
70. Conclude which option best fits these final and witness every detail. This vantage
statements in the poem: point confirms his authority, as nobles and
Statement (1) : The concluding moral is that no spectators look on while he presides over the
true love sets life-threatening tests. event.
Statement (2) : The glove ordeal was an act of (iv) By having lions battle in an arena, the poem
genuine tenderness on the lady’s part. introduces a potent mix of royal prestige and
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false raw ferocity. Observers likely feel both awe
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false and tension, heightening the drama before
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) them.
(d) (1) and (2) are independent (v) He seems confident in hosting lethal sports,
indicating more fascination than fear.
Ans
This stance suggests he relishes showy danger,
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false believing his regal position shields him from
At the end, King Francis dismisses her stunt real harm.
as vain, not loving. He declares real affection
wouldn’t demand such hazards. Hence, statement
(2) contradicts the poem’s moral lesson.
2. Read the following lines and answer the questions
that follow:
“The nobles filled the benches, and the ladies in
EXTRACT BASED QUESTION their pride,
And ‘mongst them sat the Count de Lorge, with
one for whom he sighed:”
1. Read the following lines and answer the questions (i) Describe the gathering of people in these
that follow: lines.
“King Francis was a hearty king, and loved a (ii) Why might the ladies be described “in their
royal sport, pride”?
And one day as his lions fought, sat looking on (iii) What is implied by the mention of the Count
the court;” and his silent yearning?
(i) Describe how King Francis is portrayed in (iv) How do these details help set a courtly, refined
these lines. backdrop?
(ii) Explain why the spectacle of lions might be (v) What does the presence of nobles and a
termed “royal sport.” longing Count suggest about the social scene?
(iii) Discuss the significance of King Francis Does it heighten romance or merely display
observing from the court. vanity? Give a reason.

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Ans 14. Which best describes the fight among the lions,
(c) He praises the Count’s action, calling it as portrayed?
“rightly done” (a) Slow, measured pacing
(b) Intense, roaring chaos with swirling dust
When the glove hits the lady’s face, Francis
(c) Polite wrestling match
endorses it, feeling the lady’s “vanity” led her to
(d) Lazy lying around the pit
risk the Count’s life for show. He sees the Count’s
response as justified. Ans

11. What does the King declare about “love” in the (b) Intense, roaring chaos with swirling dust
final lines? They ramp, roar, and thrash violently, churning
(a) It always requires such tests up sand and dust. Their loud, brutal battle forms
(b) No real love sets such dangerous tasks a dramatic backdrop for the lady’s glove-dropping
(c) Love is worthless in court scheme and the Count’s daring act.
(d) Genuine love means risking everything
anytime 15. How does the poem contrast “Valour and love”
with the “royal beasts below”?
Ans (a) They share identical traits
(b) No real love sets such dangerous tasks (b) Valour and love are elevated, whereas lions
represent raw ferocity
Francis states that “vanity” alone demands life-
(c) The lions have more heroic bravery
threatening feats. True affection doesn’t revolve
(d) The King sees no difference
around staging dramatic stunts to prove devotion;
the lady’s challenge was driven by pride, not real Ans
love. (b) Valour and love are elevated, whereas lions
12. Why is the Count’s retrieval of the glove seen as represent raw ferocity
a test? “Valour and love” are refined human qualities in
(a) The lady wanted to replace her old glove the stands, while the lions embody primal force.
(b) It was a public show of love and bravery The poem highlights that mortal courage and
(c) The King forced him to do it affection exist above a savage, animalistic domain.
(d) The glove was from a sacred relic
16. Which line suggests that King Francis himself
Ans may find the lady attractive?
(b) It was a public show of love and bravery (a) “He never looked at her.”
(b) “…with one for whom he sighed.”
She contrived the “perfect occasion” to highlight
(c) “King Francis disliked the Count’s beloved.”
the Count’s gallantry. By retrieving the glove amid
(d) “She was the King’s cousin.”
savage lions, he’d supposedly prove unwavering
devotion, validating her assumption about his Ans
bold love. (b) “…with one for whom he sighed.”
13. According to the poem, what truly motivates the The line can be read as referencing King Francis’s
lady’s action? interest in the same lady the Count admires-he
(a) Vanity and a desire for public admiration “sighed” for her, implying a rivalry or at least the
(b) Her unshakable devotion to the Count King’s personal feelings.
(c) Envy of King Francis
(d) Concern for the lions 17. Why might the leap “be quick, return be quick”
be essential to the Count’s survival?
Ans (a) He must outpace any lion’s reaction
(a) Vanity and a desire for public admiration (b) He aims to impress King Francis with
theatrics
The poem’s final line underscores how vanity
(c) The lady demanded a slow approach
(not genuine love) led her to create a dangerous
(d) The gloves were worthless otherwise
spectacle. She sought glory from onlookers, hoping
the Count’s bravado would glorify her. Ans
(a) He must outpace any lion’s reaction

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

Ans
(i) He angrily tosses the glove at the lady rather
than handing it back tenderly, expressing
frustration or disdain.
(ii) She forced him into a risky stunt to flaunt her
own importance, so he rejects her scheme by
spurning the glove.
(iii) He applauds the Count’s defiant response,
implying the king respects a bold refusal to
indulge a vain test of love.
(iv) It shifts from a grand romantic gesture to a
decisive rebuke, revealing underlying vanity
rather than pure devotion.
(v) It underscores the Count’s refusal to be
manipulated.
By humiliating her vanity, he asserts dignity
over shallow spectacle.

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Ans 28. The lions are described with “ramped and

(c) “Then threw the glove... right in the lady’s ______ jaws,” highlighting their aggressive
face.” nature.
(a) slight
The poem clarifies he didn’t present the glove as
(b) silent
a token but flung it in anger or disdain. That
(c) gentle
single act exposed her vanity, refusing to reward
(d) roared
her manipulative scheme.
Ans
25. When King Francis exclaims “By God!... rightly
done!” he signifies: (d) roared
(a) He remains neutral Hunt underscores the lions’ ferocity using “ramped
(b) He was offended by the glove dropping and roared,” capturing their savage, formidable
(c) He supports the Count’s rejection of the presence, an apt backdrop for testing the Count’s
lady’s stunt boldness in the pit.
(d) He regrets ever watching the lion fight
29. The Count leaps in and out of the lion pit very
Ans ______.
(c) He supports the Count’s rejection of the lady’s (a) slowly
stunt (b) boldly
(c) quickly
He interprets the gesture as rightful pushback
(d) carelessly
against vanity. By endorsing the Count’s refusal
to comply with such a dangerous whim, Francis Ans
condemns hollow tests that feign romantic (c) quickly
devotion.
His speed ensures survival. A slow approach
26. The lady decides to drop her ______ among would endanger him, but in one swift movement,
the lions to show off her lover’s courage. he retrieves the glove and escapes unscathed,
(a) sword demonstrating impressive reflexes and courage.
(b) glove
(c) jewel 30. The poem labels the lady’s challenge as an act of
(d) fan “no love but ______.”
(a) pity
Ans (b) fury
(b) glove (c) reason
(d) vanity
Her “glove test” sets the stage for the Count’s
daring leap. By retrieving it, she hoped he’d Ans
demonstrate unwavering love. The glove (d) vanity
symbolizes a challenge born from her vanity.
King Francis condemns her stunt as stemming
27. King Francis deems the Count’s final gesture from pride, not genuine affection. She sought
“______ done!” after he returns safely. attention and glory, risking the Count’s life to
(a) wrongly prove a hollow, showy kind of “love.”
(b) oddly
(c) kindly 31. The lion fight occurs in the presence of King
(d) rightly Francis, the nobles, and the ______ in the
stands.
Ans (a) guards
(d) rightly (b) ladies
(c) servants
On seeing the Count fling the glove at the lady,
(d) beggars
Francis cries “By God!... rightly done!” He
endorses the Count’s scorn for a test that risked Ans
life out of mere vanity. (b) ladies

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

If the Count lingered, the lions could attack. Swift 21. In the poem, “Valour and love, and a king above,
entry and exit were vital for retrieving the glove and the royal beasts below” implies:
unharmed, underscoring the agility needed for (a) The King uses lions to guard his throne
such a hazardous stunt. (b) Courage and romance are displayed, overseen
by royalty, while lions clash below
18. How does the Count’s action (throwing the glove (c) The lion pit was kept secret from the nobles
at her face) redefine the lady’s plan? (d) The King fears beasts more than human
(a) He becomes enslaved to her intrigue
(b) He shows contempt for her vanity
(c) He begs her pardon for failing Ans
(d) He injures her severely (b) Courage and romance are displayed, overseen
Ans by royalty, while lions clash below

(b) He shows contempt for her vanity The poem sets a dramatic stage: enthroned
King Francis, bold suitors, and ferocious lions.
Instead of presenting the glove as a “devotional” “Valour” (the Count’s bravery) and “love” (the
token, he flings it back, a sign of scorn. He rejects lady’s challenge) unfold above the fierce animals.
her manipulative test, revealing frustration rather
than love or admiration. 22. How does the lady initially react after the glove is
flung in her face?
19. Which outcome underlines King Francis’s moral (a) The poem doesn’t explicitly say
stance? (b) She weeps bitterly
(a) The lady is exiled from the court (c) She attacks the Count
(b) He praises the Count’s refusal to indulge (d) She laughs triumphantly
vanity
(c) He condemns the Count’s brashness Ans
(d) He orders the Count to duel the lions again (a) The poem doesn’t explicitly say
Ans Leigh Hunt ends with King Francis’s exclamation
(b) He praises the Count’s refusal to indulge and moral statement. The lady’s immediate
vanity response isn’t described, leaving readers to infer
her shock or regret at the Count’s rejection.
Observing events, Francis declares “By God! …
rightly done!” The King interprets the lady’s 23. What is the lion pit’s symbolic function in the
challenge as mere pride, approving the Count’s poem?
symbolic rejection and scolding superficial love (a) It stands for universal compassion
tests. (b) It’s a place for playful contests
(c) It’s a dangerous stage testing courage and
20. Which best summarizes the poem’s final vanity
takeaway? (d) It primarily offers a hidden safe zone
(a) Love that requires reckless proof is no true Ans
love (c) It’s a dangerous stage testing courage and
(b) Lion fights are the safest sport vanity
(c) Women should never trust a knight
(d) True love always demands dangerous feats The pit’s threat provides a platform for dramatic
displays-like retrieving the glove. This lethal
Ans environment underscores the poem’s message
(a) Love that requires reckless proof is no true about false bravado vs. genuine devotion.
love
24. Which line implies the Count’s action was purely
King Francis’s concluding remark is that real to highlight the lady’s selfish motive?
affection doesn’t set life-threatening tasks. The (a) “He praised her cunning.”
lady’s glove test exemplifies vanity, not devotion, (b) “He left the glove upon the ground.”
thus revealing a moral about genuine love’s (c) “Then threw the glove, but not with love,
nature. right in the lady’s face.”
(d) “He roared at the lions triumphantly.”

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39. This incident unfolds under the monarchy of Leigh Hunt’s line highlights how the lions’ jaws
“King ______,” who presides over the lion seem to laugh horrifically, a threatening image.
fight. Their menacing open mouths convey ferocity
(a) Henry essential to the poem’s dramatic lion-fight scene.
(b) James
(c) Francis 43. She thought, the Count my lover is brave, he
(d) William surely would do ______ to show his love.
(a) safe acts, never risking danger
Ans (b) wondrous things to prove devotion
(c) Francis (c) nothing beyond praising me politely
(d) reckless feats purely for the King
Leigh Hunt situates the spectacle during King
Francis’s rule. Observing from above, he represents Ans
both regal authority and the moral arbiter who (b) wondrous things to prove devotion
ultimately critiques the lady’s motives.
The lady assumes Count de Lorge will demonstrate
40. “And truly ’twas a ______ thing to see that extraordinary courage. Her line underscores her
crowning show,/Valour and love, and a king confidence that he’ll retrieve the glove, earning
above...” admiration for both herself and his brave repute.
(a) dull
(b) gallant 44. He bowed, and in a moment leaped among the
(c) dire ______ lions wild.
(d) ironic (a) fierce, prowling, dangerously roaring
(b) mild, timid, hardly active
Ans (c) caged, exhausted, quietly resting
(b) gallant (d) friendly, gentle, sweetly purring
The poem calls the entire display a “gallant thing”- Ans
spectacular in its courageous displays (both the (a) fierce, prowling, dangerously roaring
lions’ ferocity and the Count’s leap), crowned by
the presence of King Francis overseeing it all. To retrieve the glove, the Count plunges into a
pit of hostile animals. The poem emphasizes these
41. King Francis was a ______ king, and loved a beasts as savage-ramping, roaring-necessitating
royal sport. quick, fearless action to survive unscathed.
(a) hearty, gracious, fond of sport
(b) grumpy, silent, rarely showing joy 45. By God said Francis, rightly done and he rose,
(c) cold, suspicious, prone to anger remarking, No love but ______ sets love a task
(d) strict, religious, disliking amusements like that.
Ans (a) vain glory in a proud heart
(b) pure loyalty beyond all reason
(a) hearty, gracious, fond of sport (c) true passion for a worthy cause
The poem explicitly calls Francis a hearty king. (d) greedy hopes for a bigger fortune
He watches lion fights enthusiastically, suggesting Ans
both kindness and a keen interest in bold spectacle,
consistent with being gracious and liking sports. (a) vain glory in a proud heart
The king concludes the lady’s glove test is born
42. Ramped and roared the lions, with horrid of vanity, not genuine affection. He applauds
______ jaws. the Count’s defiant gesture, deeming it a proper
(a) snapping, glaring, ever-laughing rebuke of prideful, empty challenges.
(b) mocking, giggling, frothing wide
(c) laughing jaws, menacing all around 46. Which of the given options contains the figure
(d) crooked, gentle, nearly hidden inside of speech that appears in the following line from
Ans ‘The Glove and the Lions’ poem:
“The leap was quick, return was quick, he has
(c) laughing jaws, menacing all around regained his place.”

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

(a) “The wind whispered secrets through the 49. In “Ramped and roared the lions,” alliteration
ancient trees.” (repetition of initial consonant sound) appears
(b) “The soldier dashed into battle, swift as a (“ramped,” “roared”). Which line also illustrates
hawk in flight.” alliteration?
(c) “The stars danced playfully in the midnight (a) “Slowly, the sun sank.”
sky.” (b) “Fair flowers fluttered, filling fields.”
(d) “The silence of the room was loud enough to (c) “Loud thunder boomed in the distance.”
deafen.” (d) “Her voice soared across the valley.”
Ans Ans
(b) “The soldier dashed into battle, swift as a (b) “Fair flowers fluttered, filling fields.”
hawk in flight.” Alliteration repeats the same consonant sound in
Both lines emphasize speed and agility through quick succession. “Fair flowers fluttered, filling
vivid imagery. “The leap was quick” mirrors the fields” uses the ‘f’ sound repeatedly, akin to
rapid and purposeful movement described as “ramped and roared” using the ‘r’ sound.
“swift as a hawk,” showcasing the use of simile
and imagery to convey action. 50. “By God!” said Francis, “rightly done!” uses
exclamatory diction to approve the Count’s
47. Which of the given options contains the figure action. Which of the following lines demonstrates
of speech that appears in the following line from an equivalent burst of endorsement or emotion?
‘The Glove and the Lions’ poem: (a) “Her tone was measured and calm.”
“He surely would do wondrous things to show his (b) “Alas, my friend, splendidly said!”
love of me” (c) “He quietly murmured his agreement.”
(a) “She strolled quietly across the meadow.” (d) “I suppose that might be correct.”
(b) “He would scale tall peaks, all for her smile.”
Ans
(c) “They laughed politely, sipping their tea.”
(d) “A faint breeze whispered in the hollow glen.” (b) “Alas, my friend, splendidly said!”

Ans Both “By God! … rightly done!” and “Alas, my

friend, splendidly said!” convey a sudden, forceful
(b) “He would scale tall peaks, all for her smile.” emotional outburst endorsing or highlighting an
Both lines use exaggerated, grand language to action. This similarly exclamatory phrase matches
suggest extraordinary feats for love. “Wondrous the poem’s tone.
things” and “scale tall peaks” each convey
hyperbolic devotion, paralleling the poem’s sense 51. Choose the option that lists the sequence of these
of daring. poem details in correct order:
1. Lions are fighting ferociously in a pit.
48. The line “Then threw the glove, but not with love” 2. King Francis comments they’re safer outside
uses contrasting words (love/glove) to emphasize the arena.
a point. Which choice below contains a similar 3. King Francis watches from above with his
figure of speech? court.
(a) “I gave her my heart, yet took back my trust.” 4. The pit fills with roaring, swirling dust.
(b) “He arranged neat rows of blossoming lilies.” (a) 1, 4, 3, 2
(c) “The morning sky was pale and vast.” (b) 3, 1, 4, 2
(d) “She listened to a whispered story, smiling (c) 2, 1, 3, 4
softly.” (d) 3, 4, 1, 2
Ans Ans
(a) “I gave her my heart, yet took back my trust.” (b) 3, 1, 4, 2
Hunt’s line contrasts “glove” and “love” to show First, King Francis and nobles gather (3), then
a stark reversal (he flings it instead of offering lions fight (1), churning dust (4). Finally, Francis
devotion). “Gave her my heart” but “took back exclaims it’s better to remain outside that
trust” likewise underscores an ironic about-face. dangerous pit (2).

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52. Identify the correct chronological flow: 55. Determine which ordering of lines reflects the
1. A beauteous lady sits near Count de Lorge. poem’s progression:
2. She hears King Francis’s remark about 1. The poem praises the “gallant show.”
comfort. 2. Valour and love stand above the beasts.
3. She resolves to drop her glove among the lions. 3. Lions fight savagely in the pit.
4. She believes the Count would do anything for 4. A kingly presence oversees it all.
love. (a) 2, 3, 1, 4
(a) 4, 2, 3, 1 (b) 1, 2, 4, 3
(b) 1, 4, 2, 3 (c) 3, 1, 2, 4
(c) 1, 2, 4, 3 (d) 1, 4, 2, 3
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2
Ans
Ans (d) 1, 4, 2, 3
(c) 1, 2, 4, 3 First, it’s called a “gallant” spectacle (1). Then a
The lady is introduced sitting with the Count (1). regal figure (the King) is above (4), while valour
She overhears Francis’s remark (2), concludes the and love (2) outshine the raw conflict of lions (3).
Count is brave enough (4), and decides the glove
test is perfect (3). 56. Which listing suits the events in correct order?
1. Lions clash violently; a swirl of dust fills the
53. Decide which ordering of statements matches the arena.
poem’s narration: 2. The lady decides to test the Count’s bravery.
1. She drops the glove, smiling at the Count. 3. King Francis notes how tough the lions are.
2. The Count leaps down to retrieve it. 4. Nobles and ladies watch, enthralled.
3. Without love, he throws it at her face. (a) 4, 2, 1, 3
4. He quickly returns to safety. (b) 2, 3, 4, 1
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3 (c) 4, 1, 2, 3
(b) 4, 3, 1, 2 (d) 1, 3, 4, 2
(c) 1, 2, 4, 3
Ans
(d) 4, 2, 3, 1
(d) 1, 3, 4, 2
Ans
At first, the lions fight (1), prompting Francis’s
(c) 1, 2, 4, 3 remarks about danger (3). Nobles and ladies
First, she drops the glove (1). The Count responds watch in awe (4). Then the lady hatches her plan
by jumping in for it (2), returns instantly (4), and to drop the glove (2).
finally flings it back at her in contempt (3).
57. Choose the correct sequence below:
54. Select the correct sequence: 1. “Valour and love, and a king above, and the
1. King Francis says, “By God! … rightly done!” royal beasts below.”
2. The crowd witnesses the Count’s daring act. 2. The King calls it safer “here than there.”
3. The lady expects glory for proving the 3. Noble spectators fill the benches.
Count’s devotion. 4. Lions ramp and roar in the pit.
4. The Count hurls the glove in her face. (a) 3, 4, 1, 2
(a) 3, 2, 4, 1 (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
(b) 1, 4, 3, 2 (c) 2, 3, 4, 1
(c) 4, 3, 1, 2 (d) 3, 1, 4, 2
(d) 2, 1, 4, 3
Ans
Ans (a) 3, 4, 1, 2
(a) 3, 2, 4, 1 First, benches crowd with nobles (3). Then the
She’s sure she’ll earn admiration (3), but the lions ramp and roar (4). The poem merges these
crowd soon sees him retrieving the glove (2). elements as “valour and love” overhead, beasts
After success, he throws it at her (4), and King below (1). Finally, Francis comments they’re safer
Francis approves that action (1). outside (2).

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

In a royal spectacle, such savage displays (iv) How might her lively demeanor contrast with
likely serve as riveting entertainment rather the lions’ brutal fight?
than a moral warning. (v) This lady overhears the King’s remark.
Do you believe her reaction stems from
5. Read the following lines and answer the questions genuine love or personal ambition? Provide
that follow: a brief reason.
“With wallowing might and stifled roar they
rolled on one another; Ans
Till all the pit with sand and mane was in a (i) She is presented as an attractive, vibrant
thunderous smother;” lady who captures attention with her cheerful
(i) How does the poet describe the lions’ struggle countenance and keen gaze.
in these lines? (ii) Highlighting her “smiling lips” and “sharp
(ii) What imagery conveys the intensity of their bright eyes” underscores an alluring charm,
conflict? suggesting confidence or playful intrigue.
(iii) Why might the phrase “thunderous smother” (iii) She’s poised to act as a catalyst, possibly
be particularly effective? spurring De Lorge toward a daring act,
(iv) Discuss the atmosphere created by swirling hinting she’s integral to the poem’s turning
sand and tangled manes. point.
(v) Do you think this graphic depiction serves to (iv) Her grace and spirited nature offset the savage
glorify the battle or critique its ferocity? struggle below, injecting a note of refined
Give one reason to support your view. vivacity into an otherwise violent setting.
Ans (v) Her immediate decision seems partly self-
serving, aiming for a grand gesture to elevate
(i) He depicts them wrestling in close quarters her stature.
with overpowering force, growling in muffled It’s less about pure affection than showcasing
tones as they clash for dominance. boldness.
(ii) Words like “wallowing might” and “thunderous
smother” conjure a suffocating chaos of dust, 7. Read the following lines and answer the questions
sound, and fur, vividly dramatizing their that follow:
desperate struggle. “She thought, the Count my lover is brave as
(iii) It implies a loud, overwhelming confusion, brave can be;
almost as if the entire pit rumbles with their He surely would do wondrous things to show his
combined fury, enveloping them in swirling love of me;”
debris. (i) Summarize the lady’s belief about her lover’s
(iv) It creates a sense of engulfing violence, where bravery.
the boundary between beast and environment (ii) Why might she place such reliance on
blurs, heightening tension among onlookers “wondrous things”?
enthralled by the spectacle. (iii) What does this reveal about her expectations
(v) It appears more an exhilarating description or desires?
than a moral critique. (iv) How do these lines build tension for the reader
By focusing on dramatic detail, the poem anticipating the Count’s actions?
emphasizes the event’s captivating intensity (v) Are her thoughts indicative of deep faith or
rather than condemning it. vain testing?
6. Read the following lines and answer the questions Give one reason to justify your interpretation.
that follow: Ans
“De Lorge’s love o’erheard the King, a beauteous
(i) She is convinced her lover possesses
lively dame
exceptional courage and will undertake heroic
With smiling lips and sharp bright eyes, which
deeds on her behalf.
always seemed the same;”
(ii) She imagines dramatic feats bestowing both
(i) How is De Lorge’s beloved introduced here?
glory and proof of devotion, fitting the
(ii) Why are her physical traits emphasized?
courtly setting’s emphasis on bold, romantic
(iii) What insight does this provide into her
demonstrations.
character or role?

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(c) (1) is the cause for (2) Statement (2) : He regrets the Count’s victory
(d) (1) and (2) are independent and orders him to fight another lion.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Ans
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
He does indeed snag the glove, but swiftly-no (d) (1) and (2) are independent
extended stroll. The text highlights his lightning- Ans
quick action, underlining the absence of any
lengthy, peaceful timeframe among docile lions. (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Francis enthusiastically endorses the Count’s
64. Review how the poem highlights the lady’s action, praising it as justified. There is no mention
motivation and King Francis’s moral conclusion, of a subsequent demand for further combat. The
then decide which option fits: poem ends with the king’s moral commentary.
Statement (1) : The lady’s motive is pure love and
devotion toward the Count. 67. Appraise how the lion pit and the lady’s glove
Statement (2) : King Francis calls it “no love, but overshadow each other, then pick the correct
vanity,” criticizing her glove trick. statement pairing:
(a) (1) and (2) are independent Statement (1) : The poem depicts a violent lion
(b) (1) is true and (2) is false fight as a dramatic backdrop.
(c) (2) is true and (1) is false Statement (2) : The lady’s dropping of the glove
(d) (1) is the cause for (2) becomes the real show, eclipsing the lions’ brawl.
(a) (1) and (2) are independent
Ans
(b) (1) is true and (2) is false
(c) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (2) is true and (1) is false
King Francis explicitly calls her challenge an (d) (1) is the cause for (2)
act of pride. The poem underscores that she
orchestrates the glove test for fame, not genuine Ans
affection, disproving any notion of pure love. (d) (1) is the cause for (2)

65. Observe the final moments of the glove retrieval Because the lion fight is so intense, the lady’s
and choose which option accurately classifies glove stunt draws all eyes to her-and the Count’s
these statements: quick retrieval. The furious arena heightens her
Statement (1) : The Count tosses the glove at the act, overshadowing the savage battle.
lady’s face after returning unscathed.
Statement (2) : He wanted to reward her for
believing in his courage.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false 68. Reflect on the Count’s reasons for jumping in,
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false then evaluate these statements:
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) Statement (1) : The Count leaps into the pit
(d) (1) and (2) do not influence each other purely to impress King Francis.
Ans Statement (2) : He primarily aims to retrieve the
glove for the lady who orchestrated the stunt.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
He indeed throws it at her face, but not as a (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
reward. Instead, it’s an act of scorn, revealing (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
he disapproves of her prideful stunt rather than (d) (1) and (2) are independent
gratefully acknowledging her confidence.
Ans
66. Consider King Francis’s reaction in “The Glove (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
and the Lions” and analyze how these statements
His main motive is fulfilling the lady’s contrived
connect:
test, not winning Francis’s special favor. The
Statement (1) : King Francis exclaims “rightly
poem frames him as reacting to her glove-drop,
done!” upon seeing the glove’s return at the lady’s
not the monarch’s potential admiration.
face.

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

3. In the poem, the Count de Lorge is accompanied The poem highlights her vivaciousness-smiling
by ______. lips, keen eyes, consistently bright expression.
(a) His loyal friend She’s confident enough to devise a dramatic test
(b) A lady he adores of the Count’s bravery and love.
(c) The King’s advisor
(d) A fierce competitor 7. Why does the lady plan to drop her glove among
the lions?
Ans (a) She lost it accidentally
(b) A lady he adores (b) To prove the Count’s devotion
(c) She wanted to feed the lions
We learn that Count de Lorge sits with “one
(d) She disliked that glove
for whom he sighed,” indicating the woman
he admires. She becomes central to the glove- Ans
dropping test of his courage. (b) To prove the Count’s devotion

4. How does the poet depict the lions’ physical Believing the Count would do “wondrous
strength? things” for her, she sees this as a perfect public
(a) Dainty steps on the sand demonstration. Dropping the glove tests whether
(b) Blows like beams and whirling paws he’ll risk his life for love.
(c) Hidden timidly behind bars 8. After she drops her glove, how does Count de
(d) Scratching gently at each other Lorge respond?
Ans (a) He freezes in terror
(b) He scolds her loudly
(b) Blows like beams and whirling paws
(c) He leaps among the lions, retrieves it, and
They exchange massive strikes (“like beams”), jumps out
stirring the air with their paws. The poem’s (d) He offers money to a guard
language-“wallowing might,” “thunderous Ans
smother”-shows how formidable and chaotic their
combat is. (c) He leaps among the lions, retrieves it, and
jumps out
5. What remark does King Francis make, observing In a swift, courageous act, the Count immediately
the lions’ ferocity? fetches the glove, returning to safety before
(a) He suggests skipping the show the lions react. His agility and bravery please
(b) He finds them harmless onlookers-yet there’s a twist.
(c) He’s glad to be outside the pit
(d) He claims no lion can hurt him 9. Which action does the Count take immediately
after regaining his place?
Ans
(a) He kneels in gratitude
(c) He’s glad to be outside the pit (b) He throws the glove in the lady’s face
Seeing the lions’ brutal fight, Francis says they’re (c) He faints from exhaustion
better off in the stands. He implies the danger is (d) He roars at the lions
intense; no sane person would choose to be within Ans
the vicious arena. (b) He throws the glove in the lady’s face
6. How is the lady near Count de Lorge described? Far from presenting it as a love-token, he flings
(a) Shy and fearful it back at her in disapproval, signaling he resents
(b) A beauteous, lively dame with sharp bright her manipulative attempt to test his courage.
eyes
10. How does King Francis react to the Count’s
(c) Elderly and frail
(d) Quiet but resentful throwing of the glove?
(a) He orders the Count’s arrest
Ans (b) He demands the lady apologize
(b) A beauteous, lively dame with sharp bright (c) He praises the Count’s action, calling it
eyes “rightly done”
(d) He punishes the lions

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Ans underscores his power, while “royal beasts”

(i) A grand assembly of upper-class spectators intensify the sense of grand, dangerous sport.
arrives to watch the spectacle. The poem (iii) A rich tableau emerges: a powerful ruler
highlights their status, implying a crowded enthroned, while mighty lions clash in the
and sophisticated environment around the arena. This layering of authority, bravery, and
arena or court. raw animal force weaves a spectacle of high
(ii) They are likely adorned in fine attire, drama.
exuding elegance and confidence. Their pride (iv) Court members witness both savage conflict
underscores a formal courtly atmosphere, and emotional undercurrents, uniting
signaling self-assured displays of fashion and physical danger with romantic stakes. Such
lineage. a mix likely enthralls everyone present in the
(iii) He silently admires a certain lady, showing amphitheater.
an undercurrent of romantic tension woven (v) By juxtaposing courage with devotion, the
into the larger, public event. His unspoken poem blends heroic feats and amorous ideals.
affection lends emotional depth to the setting. It suggests a chivalric aura, emphasizing both
(iv) It evokes the image of a regal occasion, where martial prowess and emotional fervor.
love, etiquette, and showmanship converge.
Formal gatherings of distinguished figures 4. Read the following lines and answer the questions
reinforce the notion of a polished, ceremonial that follow:
environment. “Ramped and roared the lions, with horrid
(v) Seeing nobles and a man pining for his laughing jaws;
beloved underscores both romantic intrigue They bit, they glared, gave blows like beams, a
and societal spectacle. wind went with their paws;”
It heightens a sense of courtly charm, though (i) Describe the lions’ actions in these lines.
some might view it as a mere display of (ii) What effect does the phrase “horrid laughing
aristocratic vanity. jaws” create?
(iii) How does emphasizing the lions’ physical
3. Read the following lines and answer the questions might intensify the scene?
that follow: (iv) In what way might these details evoke both
“And truly ’twas a gallant thing to see that admiration and fear?
crowning show, (v) Are these ferocious visuals meant to thrill the
Valour and love, and a king above, and the royal audience or caution them?
beasts below.” Give one reason for your interpretation.
(i) Explain why the poet calls this event a Ans
“gallant thing.”
(ii) Discuss the interplay between “valour,” (i) They unleash violent force, roaring, clawing,
“love,” and a king’s authority here. and striking with tremendous power. Their
(iii) What dramatic image emerges from having aggressive stance underscores raw ferocity
lions in the pit and the king watching? within the combat arena.
(iv) How might this spectacle captivate both (ii) It suggests a grotesque, almost mocking
participants and onlookers? threat, as if the lions’ gaping maws are
(v) “Valour and love” appear side by side. hideously grinning before tearing into their
Does their pairing highlight heroism or foes.
romantic spectacle? Give a short reason. (iii) By spotlighting mighty blows and a rushing
wind from their paws, the poem highlights
Ans staggering strength, intensifying the
(i) He sees courage displayed by those involved- atmosphere of deadly conflict.
be they knights, courtiers, or lovers. This (iv) Viewers might marvel at the lions’ majestic
lavish presentation of bravery in a regal power while also recoiling from the brutal
setting exemplifies a bold, chivalrous affair. violence. That blend of awe and terror
(ii) The king presides over a scene where daring amplifies the crowd’s emotional response.
feats (valour) intertwine with passionate (v) They seem intended to excite the court with
devotion (love). His position “above” dramatic peril.

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

Hunt pictures a courtly spectacle: King, lords, and (c) glory

ladies watching the savage clash below. Among (d) fear
the ladies is the beauteous one who sets the glove
Ans
trial for the Count.
(c) glory
32. Upon hearing Francis’s remark about safety, the
The poem highlights her ambition for a public
lady thinks, “The Count my lover is brave as
spectacle. She anticipated onlookers would marvel
______ can be.”
at her ability to inspire such a daring act, granting
(a) timid
her personal glory and admiration.
(b) sly
(c) brave 36. After retrieving the glove, the Count “threw the
(d) foolish glove, but not with ______.”
Ans (a) rage
(b) kindness
(c) brave (c) love
She regards him as courage incarnate, suspecting (d) hope
he’ll do “wondrous things” to prove devotion.
Ans
Her plan to drop the glove relies on the Count’s
perceived heroic, unwavering bravery. (c) love
Instead of returning it gently as a sign of devotion,
33. The poet calls the show in the arena a combination
he flings it contemptuously at her face, showing
of “Valour and ______.”
his disdain for her vanity-driven test.
(a) peace
(b) truth 37. “By God!” said Francis, “______ done!” as he
(c) love watched the Count’s final move.
(d) hope (a) poorly
Ans (b) rightly
(c) softly
(c) love (d) bravely
As a spectator event, it intertwines bold deeds
Ans
(lion combat) with romantic or courtly intrigue
(the lady’s test of devotion). “Valour and love” (b) rightly
symbolize these dual forces at play. Witnessing the Count rebuke the lady’s vanity
by discarding the glove at her face, King Francis
34. The lady “______ her glove, to prove his love”
approves wholeheartedly, labeling the action
in the middle of the lions’ pit.
“rightly done,” denouncing a love that demands
(a) hid
reckless proof.
(b) dropped
(c) retrieved
(d) burned
Ans 38. The poem closes with King Francis declaring “No
love... but ______ sets love a task like that.”
(b) dropped
(a) faith
She deliberately lets the glove fall in front of (b) purity
the ferocious lions, fully expecting the Count to (c) awe
retrieve it-her orchestrated method to demonstrate (d) vanity
and publicly confirm his devotion.
Ans
35. The lady “smiled” as she did so, confident (d) vanity
the Count would succeed and bring her great He condemns the lady’s challenge as fueled by
______. pride, not affection. The entire demonstration
(a) doom stands as an example of showy vanity rather than
(b) sorrow sincere devotion or caring.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 335

(iii) She craves a public, standout display of love, He bowed, and in a moment leaped among the
underscoring a desire for spectacle rather lions wild:”
than private affection alone. (i) Interpret the woman’s motive in dropping the
(iv) They foreshadow an impending test of valor, glove.
prompting curiosity about how far the Count (ii) Discuss how her gesture challenges the Count
will go to fulfill her high expectations. publicly.
(v) Her confidence may mask a degree of self- (iii) Explain the Count’s immediate response and
centered vanity. its significance.
Expecting “wondrous things” suggests she’s (iv) How do these lines portray swift action in
staging a showy challenge rather than trusting contrast to the lions’ danger?
quiet devotion. (v) By smiling, does the lady show confidence or
manipulation?
8. Read the following lines and answer the questions Give one reason to clarify your stance.
that follow: Ans
“He surely would do wondrous things to show his
love of me; (i) She intentionally creates a test of bravery,
King, ladies, lovers, all look on; the occasion is expecting him to retrieve the glove amid
divine;” lethal animals, thus proving his devotion
(i) How do these lines emphasize the public before all eyes.
nature of her anticipated proof of love? (ii) He faces high stakes: either risk life for a
(ii) In what way does the presence of the King romantic token or appear cowardly. Public
and others raise the stakes? honor is on the line.
(iii) Why might describing the moment as “divine” (iii) He instantly bows and leaps into the lions’
matter? pit, illustrating gallant speed. This bold move
(iv) Discuss how the Count’s expected feats are underscores readiness to fulfill her dramatic
tied to the onlookers’ reactions. dare.
(v) The lady calls the scene “divine.” (iv) He acts faster than the lions can react,
Does that suggest sincere romance or a showcasing human courage overshadowing
display meant to impress? Cite one reason. beastly peril in a brief, electrifying moment.
(v) Her smile implies she’s certain he’ll comply,
Ans possibly signifying self-assured or cunning
(i) She explicitly notes that “King, ladies, lovers” intent.
all watch, so whatever the Count attempts It reveals a calculated push for a brave
will be witnessed by an influential audience. spectacle.
(ii) With royalty and courtiers observing, his
success or failure becomes publicly celebrated
or shamed, amplifying both pressure and
potential glory. 10. Read the following lines and answer the questions
(iii) It elevates the moment to something sacred that follow:
or fateful, implying destiny or a uniquely “Then threw the glove, but not with love, right in
opportune time for heroic proof. the lady’s face.
(iv) His grand gesture must win admiration, not ‘By God!’ said Francis, ‘rightly done!’ and he rose
just her approval. Public acclaim or scorn from where he sat:”
hinges on how impressively he acts under (i) Summarize the Count’s reaction after
scrutiny. retrieving the glove.
(v) It appears more like a grand spectacle, (ii) Why might he return it “not with love”?
leveraging romance for public drama. (iii) What does King Francis’s exclamation reveal
Calling it “divine” hints she desires applause about his judgment?
as well as devotion. (iv) How does this sudden turn of events shift the
poem’s direction?
9. Read the following lines and answer the questions (v) The Count hurls the glove back in anger.
that follow: Does this act highlight betrayal of her plan
“She dropped her glove, to prove his love, then or a triumph of personal dignity? Provide one
looked at him and smiled; reason.

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Ch 2 : The Glove and the Lions

58. Which arrangement matches the poem’s narrative Her scheme collapses (3), unmasking her pride
flow? (2). Francis praises the Count’s rejection (1) and
1. The lady overhears Francis’s remark about concludes genuine love wouldn’t demand perilous
the savage lions. stunts, labeling her move pure “vanity” (4).
2. She imagines the Count as supremely brave.
3. She decides dropping the glove will elevate 61. Read the following statements drawn from events
her status. in Leigh Hunt’s “The Glove and the Lions,”
4. She quietly smiles, expecting “great glory.” then consider which of the provided options best
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 describes how these two statements relate:
(b) 3, 1, 4, 2 Statement (1) : King Francis enjoys watching
(c) 4, 2, 1, 3 lions fight as a “royal sport.”
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 Statement (2) : The poem suggests the lion arena
stands empty without any beasts.
Ans (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
Hearing Francis’s words about danger (1), she
(d) (1) and (2) are independent
reflects on the Count’s bravery (2), plots to
drop the glove as a big show (3), and anticipates Ans
acclaim with a smug grin (4). (a) (1) is true and (2) is false

59. Determine the right ordering of these lines: Francis indeed takes pleasure in the brutal
1. The Count leaps “quick” and returns “quick.” spectacle of lion combat. It’s certainly not empty
2. He stands safe among the crowd again. of beasts-rather, savage lions fill the pit. Thus, (2)
3. He flings the glove at the lady. is at odds with the text.
4. He had bowed and jumped in at her silent 62. Consider the lady’s actions and motivations in
signal. “The Glove and the Lions,” then evaluate which
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 option correctly defines the link between these
(b) 4, 1, 2, 3 statements:
(c) 4, 2, 1, 3 Statement (1) : The lady decides dropping her
(d) 1, 3, 4, 2 glove will showcase the Count’s bravery.
Ans Statement (2) : She believes the glove test is
essential to save the lions from harm.
(b) 4, 1, 2, 3
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
First, at her prompting, he bows and jumps (4). (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
Then leaps and returns swiftly (1), stands safe (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(2), and finally discards the glove at her face in (d) (1) and (2) are independent
disgust (3).
Ans
60. Pick the best sequence reflecting the poem’s (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
resolution: Her glove-drop purely aims to prove the Count’s
1. King Francis proclaims “By God!... rightly daring, not to rescue lions. The poem emphasizes
done!” her quest for glory rather than compassion for
2. The Count’s act reveals the lady’s vanity. those fierce creatures locked in combat.
3. The lady’s plan to show off fails.
4. Francis deems it not true love. 63. Examine the Count’s bold maneuver inside the
(a) 1, 4, 2, 3 pit and see how these statements align with the
(b) 3, 2, 1, 4 narrative, then choose the right relationship:
(c) 2, 4, 3, 1 Statement (1) : The Count leaps into the pit and
(d) 2, 3, 4, 1 retrieves the glove.
Statement (2) : The lions calmly let him wander
Ans
for hours before he emerges.
(b) 3, 2, 1, 4 (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 337

CHAPTER
3
WHEN GREAT TREES FALL

INTRODUCTIO it, causing even distant forces-like rocks and

mighty creatures-to tremble or flee. In the same
way, the passing of a beloved, influential figure
“When Great Trees Fall” by Maya Angelou
stirs deep shock waves in the world.
draws a touching comparison between nature
2. Confronting the Aftermath : As the poem
and humanity, suggesting that the fall of
continues, it focuses on the direct impact of
towering trees parallels the loss of remarkable
losing remarkable people. Their absence leaves
individuals. Just as the destruction of an old
those who remain feeling hollow and adrift. The
tree disrupts the forest’s balance, the departure
atmosphere becomes subdued, and survivors
of great people leaves us feeling unsettled. Yet,
struggle with overwhelming sorrow, haunted by
the poem ends on a comforting note: we can find
unspoken words and regrets.
solace in knowing that such extraordinary lives
3. The Depth of Pain and Disorientation : The
once influenced us. Their legacies inspire us to
speaker describes how reality itself seems to fade
learn from their examples and aim for our own
for those left behind. Without the guiding light of
greatness. Ultimately, the poem encourages hope,
the departed, minds lose inspiration and sink into
reminding readers that we can recover and grow
darkness. The emptiness of their loss overshadows
after experiencing loss.
everything, making life feel bleak and confusing.
4. Pathway to Healing and Renewal : Gradually, a
gentle sense of peace emerges, filling the void with
ABOUT THE POE the spirit of the one who has passed. Their memory
reminds us of their existence, encouraging us to
continue living in honor of them. This renewal
Maya Angelou was an American writer, poet, and
restores our senses and sparks the will to move
civil rights activist. Born in St. Louis in 1928, she
forward.
overcame a difficult childhood that influenced her
5. Embracing Grief and Growth : Ultimately, the
powerful voice. Her autobiography I Know Why
poem examines grief, nostalgia, and our search
the Caged Bird Sings received global praise for
for meaning after a great loss. Through vivid
its honest portrayal of growing up in the Deep
metaphors and imagery, Angelou shows how loss
South. Angelou’s works explore identity, racism,
can strengthen our bond with life itself. Even
and overcoming adversity. She also published
though the fall of a mighty tree is inevitable, it
poetry collections like Just Give Me a Cool Drink
paves the way for new growth and renewed hope.
of Water ‘Fore I Diiie. She worked with Martin
Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, and received
the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011. Maya
Angelou died in 2014, leaving behind a lasting WORD MEANINGS & EXPLANATIO
legacy.

Extract 1
SUMMAR When great trees fall,
rocks on distant hills shudder,
1. Comparing Death to a Fallen Tree : The poem lions hunker down
begins by likening the death of a great individual in tall grasses,
to a giant tree crashing down in the forest. This and even elephants
impact sends tremors through everything around lumber after safety.

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

Word Meaning painful

1. Shudder : tremble 3. Gnaws on : continues to remind us painfully
2. Hunker : squat 4. Unsaid : words which remain unspoken
3. Lumber : move slowly and awkwardly Explanation
Explanation Moving to the loss of truly remarkable people,
In these lines, the poet describes how, in forests, the poet describes how those left behind struggle
the crashing of large, ancient trees sends tremors under the weight of grief, feeling as if the air itself
through the ground, causing nearby rocks to shake. is too thin or polluted to breathe. Their lungs
Even powerful animals like lions and elephants- can only manage short, shallow breaths, and
normally fearless-become alarmed. Lions hide their vision is clouded by sorrow. This state of
in the tall grass, while elephants slowly retreat acute awareness brings intense pain, as memories
to safer areas. This trembling signals a looming of kind deeds and unspoken feelings resurface.
catastrophe, powerful enough to disturb nature’s We recall words of kindness they never uttered
bravest creatures. but showed through their caring actions, and we
lament unfulfilled promises-like a simple walk
Extract 2 together-that will now never happen because they
When great trees fall have departed forever.
in forests,
small things recoil into silence, Extract 4
their senses Great souls die and
eroded beyond fear. our reality, bound to
Word Meaning them, takes leave of us.
1. Recoil : shrink Our souls,
2. Eroded : worn out dependent upon their
nurture,
Explanation now shrink, wizened.
Here, the poet focuses on the smaller forest Our minds, formed
inhabitants-tiny creatures and insects-that and informed by their
are overwhelmed when towering trees topple. radiance, fall away.
Terrified, they remain utterly still and silent. So We are not so much maddened
profound is their fear that their basic abilities as reduced to the unutterable ignorance of
to see, hear, or react seem to wear away, leaving dark, cold
them motionless in the face of what has occurred. caves.
Word Meaning
Extract 3
1. Bound : attached
When great souls die, 2. Nurture : care and encouragement
the air around us becomes 3. Radiance : bright qualities
light, rare, sterile. 4. Wizened : shrivelled
We breathe, briefly. 5. Fall away : sag, slacken
Our eyes, briefly, 6. Dark cold caves : dark caves of despair
see with
a hurtful clarity. Explanation
Our memory, suddenly sharpened, Here, the poet emphasizes that when such
examines, extraordinary individuals pass on, a part of our
gnaws on kind words world connected to their presence also disappears.
unsaid, Our souls, which thrived on their support and
promised walks guidance, become stunted in the absence of that
never taken. care. The mind, once enlightened by their radiant
Word Meaning qualities, begins to lose hope. It isn’t just anger or
1. Rare : here, not in adequate quantity sadness we feel-it’s a profound sense of isolation,
2. Sterile : here, not good to breathe as though we are trapped in a cold, dark cave
3. Hurtful clarity : understanding which is filled with hopelessness and the absence of light.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 339

Extract 5 3. Repetition : For emphasis sake the poet has

And when great souls die, repeated some lines and words :
after a period peace blooms, When great trees fall
slowly and always When great souls die
irregularly. Spaces fill words - ‘briefly’, ‘briefly’ (Stanza 3), ‘be’ (Stanza
with a kind of 5)
soothing electric vibration. ‘They existed’ (Stanza 5)
Our senses, restored, never 4. Enjambment : The sentence continuing beyond
to be the same, whisper to us. the end of a poetic line called enjambment is used
They existed. They existed. by the poet to put an emphasis on some words
We can be. Be and be and to create an appropriate rhythmic impression,
better. For they existed as in the following cases :
Lions hunker down
Word Meaning in tall grasses
1. Soothing : comforting Our eyes, briefly,
2. Restored : brought back see with
Explanation a hurtful clarity
Finally, the poet reminds us that in the wake of
a great soul’s death, a gentle peace eventually
settles in, though it does so gradually and
unevenly. A comforting, almost electric sense of
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
calm envelops us, helping our senses function
again-though forever changed by the loss. Softly, 1. According to the poem, how do lions react when
an inner voice reassures us that these remarkable great trees fall?
individuals once walked among us. Their memory (a) They fight each other bravely
motivates us to grow, strive for greatness, and (b) They hunker down in tall grasses
become better versions of ourselves in honor of (c) They roar continuously all day
their legacy. (d) They sprint toward the open field
Ans
(b) They hunker down in tall grasses
FIGURES OF SPEEC Even powerful animals like lions become uneasy
when huge trees crash. They crouch low, hiding in
The poem ‘When Great Trees Fall’ is divided into
tall grass, symbolizing that such collapses alarm
five stanzas of uneven lengths. It does not follow
even nature’s most confident creatures.
any regular rhyme scheme or traditional meter.
However, it uses rhymed words and varying line-
lengths to create a rhythm.
Maya Angelou has used several literary devices as
part of her poetic techniques in this poem, such 2. What does the poet say happens to “small things”
as : when great trees fall?
1. Metaphor : Throughout the poem the use of (a) They begin singing loudly
extended metaphor, the fall of great trees, is made (b) They recoil into silence
to identify the fall of great trees with the death of (c) They hurry to find food
great men. This metaphor beautifully brings out (d) They gather around the fallen trunk
some similarity between the world of nature and
Ans
the human world.
2. Alliteration : The repetition of consonant sounds (b) They recoil into silence
in nearby words in a poetic line (‘alliteration’) Tiny forest dwellers freeze and become mute in
can be seen in the following lines; their fear. The poet stresses that the disaster is
We breathe, briefly (‘b’ sound) so overwhelming that smaller creatures lose their
a hurtful clarity (‘I’ and ‘t’ sounds) typical senses, stunned beyond basic fear.
We can be. Be and be (‘b’ sound)

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

3. When “great souls die,” how does the air feel to feel the same as before; their absence redefines
those left behind? our sense of normal.
(a) Light, rare, sterile
(b) Warm, dense, powerful 7. What does the poet say happens to our “souls”
(c) Heavier than usual after a great soul’s death?
(d) Thick with comforting scents (a) They vanish completely
(b) They shrink, becoming wizened
Ans (c) They grow stronger than ever
(a) Light, rare, sterile (d) They remain fully unchanged
Angelou likens the emotional aftermath to an Ans
environment too thin or “sterile” to breathe. (b) They shrink, becoming wizened
Grief distorts normalcy so severely that even the
air feels changed, lacking its usual vitality. Once reliant on the nurturing presence of great
souls, we feel diminished in their absence. Our
4. What momentary effect does losing a “great soul” emotional core feels “wizened,” less vital, having
have on our memory? lost essential guidance from those individuals.
(a) It erases past regrets
(b) It becomes suddenly sharpened 8. Which phrase best describes the mental state
(c) It fades quickly caused by such a loss, according to the poem?
(d) It swaps memories with others (a) “Not so much maddened as reduced to
ignorance”
Ans (b) “An explosion of constant anger”
(b) It becomes suddenly sharpened (c) “Completely joyful after acceptance”
(d) “Calmly unaffected, continuing as usual”
The poet notes that grief crystallizes recollections.
We dwell on missed opportunities (like unsaid Ans
kind words or undone acts), intensifying sorrow (a) “Not so much maddened as reduced to
and deepening our understanding of the loss. ignorance”
5. Which phrase does the poet use to describe how Angelou highlights that extreme grief doesn’t
we see, temporarily, after a great loss? necessarily drive us mad but rather deprives us of
(a) “A hurtful clarity” clarity, leaving us in a “dark, cold cave” state-an
(b) “A hopeful vision” ignorant, hopeless void.
(c) “A dim perspective”
(d) “A cheerful brightness” 9. In the final lines, the poet suggests that peace
eventually ______.
Ans (a) never arrives at all
(a) “A hurtful clarity” (b) occurs instantly and perfectly
(c) blooms slowly and irregularly
The poet underscores how grief can bring acute
(d) transforms into permanent chaos
understanding, though painful. This clarity
stings because we suddenly realize everything Ans
we neglected to express or accomplish with the (c) blooms slowly and irregularly
departed soul.
Angelou conveys that healing takes time,
6. After great souls die, which statement describes emerging unevenly. Grief’s aftermath isn’t swiftly
our reality? resolved; rather, peace comes in gradual waves,
(a) It “takes leave of us,” changing drastically gently restoring senses battered by the loved one’s
(b) It remains stable and strong absence.
(c) We regain balance immediately
(d) We become indifferent forever 10. What effect do “soothing electric vibrations” have
Ans on our senses in the poem?
(a) They restore them, but we remain changed
(a) It “takes leave of us,” changing drastically (b) They completely erase all memories
Angelou shows that when a beloved, influential (c) They cause immediate, total forgetfulness
figure dies, our world shifts. We no longer see or (d) They transform sadness into instant euphoria

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 341

Ans immense loss resonates far beyond the immediate

(a) They restore them, but we remain changed vicinity.
The poem describes a gentle reawakening: our 14. Which animals “lumber after safety” in the
senses function again, though forever altered by poem’s initial lines?
loss. We can live on, changed by the memory of (a) Lions
those who have departed. (b) Elephants
(c) Bears
11. Which statement reflects the poet’s final message
(d) Wild dogs
regarding great souls?
(a) “They existed. We can be better, for they Ans
existed.” (b) Elephants
(b) “They never mattered to anyone.”
(c) “Their impact fades immediately.” Angelou’s lines describe typically confident
(d) “We must forget them quickly.” elephants seeking refuge when monumental trees
topple. Their slow, cautious retreat exemplifies
Ans how major losses unsettle even the sturdiest,
(a) “They existed. We can be better, for they mightiest presences.
existed.”
15. The phrase “recoil into silence” best describes
Angelou emphasizes that remembering these how ______ respond to fallen trees.
departed great souls encourages us to grow and (a) lions
improve ourselves. Their legacy remains a guiding (b) humans
force for becoming “better” versions of who we (c) small creatures
can be. (d) geologists
12. How does the poem compare the impact of great Ans
trees falling to great souls dying? (c) small creatures
(a) Trees cause permanent fear in animals, souls
do not Tiny forest dwellers are so overwhelmed by a
(b) Both trigger profound disturbance, shaking great tree’s crash that they become mute and
the entire environment still, their very senses “eroded,” pointing to how
(c) Trees are worthless, souls are valuable catastrophic events paralyze the most vulnerable
(d) Both events lead to joyful celebrations beings.

Ans 16. When addressing the death of “great souls,” the

(b) Both trigger profound disturbance, shaking poet refers to the air becoming ______.
the entire environment (a) thick, heavy
(b) light, rare, sterile
Just as animals sense the forest’s tremors, people (c) sweet and pleasant
deeply feel the absence of great souls. In both (d) dark and cold immediately
scenarios, an entire surrounding realm reacts,
highlighting the far-reaching effect of such losses. Ans
(b) light, rare, sterile
13. What do “rocks on distant hills” do in response to
a great tree’s fall? Angelou’s imagery conveys a sense that breathing
(a) They shudder is difficult, almost useless. This atmosphere
(b) They melt away suggests emptiness or hollowness left behind
(c) They grow larger when influential, nurturing personalities vanish
(d) They roll down the slope from our lives.

Ans 17. Which word best captures how memory behaves

(a) They shudder upon a great soul’s death?
(a) Sharpened
Angelou uses “shudder” to show that even (b) Diminished
inanimate features of the landscape respond to (c) Blurred
this quake-like event. It underscores how a single (d) Erased

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

32. The poem states that our minds, once guided by a Ans
great person’s influence, begin to ______ after (b) electric
their departure.
Angelou references a comforting, quietly charged
(a) strengthen
energy that soothes mourners-like a gentle
(b) fall away
current renewing dulled senses. It neither shocks
(c) rejoice
nor overwhelms but helps rebuild an emotional
(d) resist
balance in time.
Ans
36. The poet affirms that even after such immense
(b) fall away loss, our ______ eventually return, though
Without the nurturing wisdom previously offered, permanently altered.
our thoughts lose stability. Angelou portrays it (a) answers
as a downward slip, a loss of direction or support (b) memories
once provided by that outstanding figure. (c) senses
(d) limits
33. Grief doesn’t exactly drive us mad, but rather
leaves us feeling ______, trapped in cold Ans
darkness. (c) senses
(a) blessed
She notes that grieving survivors regain the ability
(b) balanced
to feel and perceive normally, but never quite the
(c) reduced
same way. This subtle readjustment underlines
(d) uplifted
how loss changes us forever.
Ans
(c) reduced
According to Angelou, we aren’t “maddened”; 37. The final lines emphasize that because these
instead, we shrink into a state of hopeless “great souls” truly ______, we can strive to
ignorance akin to a “dark cave.” This smaller, be better.
sadder condition shows how loss diminishes our (a) thrived
confidence. (b) yearned
(c) taught
34. Eventually, the poet describes a slow, irregular
(d) existed
______ that blossoms after a major loss.
(a) sorrow Ans
(b) awakening (d) existed
(c) peace
Angelou repeats “They existed” to stress their
(d) curiosity
real-life impact. Simply knowing they lived inspires
Ans us to grow, improve, and honor their memory
(c) peace through our own positive transformations.
Angelou highlights the healing process, 38. Initially, the poem presents fallen trees so massive
emphasizing that equilibrium and comfort do that elephants ______ after safety.
come, but not swiftly or uniformly. A gentle, (a) dash
uneven calm forms, gradually easing us from (b) lumber
despair. (c) shrink
(d) squeak
35. During this recovery phase, a subtle, almost
______ vibration fills the emptiness, helping Ans
people cope. (b) lumber
(a) random
Angelou uses “lumber” to describe the elephants’
(b) electric
slow, heavy movement toward refuge. The fact
(c) fading
that even mighty elephants seek safety reveals
(d) glaring
how startling a great tree’s collapse can be.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 343

25. Overall, Angelou’s poem “When Great Trees Ans

Fall” parallels ______. (c) sterile
(a) the joy of natural regrowth with comfort
This image underscores the emptiness after
(b) the struggle between man and nature’s fury
a revered individual dies. “Sterile” implies it
(c) the collapse of towering trees with the death
lacks warmth or nourishment-like air drained
of great souls
of sustaining qualities, leaving people uneasy or
(d) attempts to preserve old forests for wildlife
emotionally short of breath.
Ans
29. Upon losing someone significant, our perception
(c) the collapse of towering trees with the death gains a sharply ______ clarity, which can be
of great souls painful.
In her poem, Angelou draws a parallel between (a) soothing
massive trees falling and powerful, noble (b) hurtful
individuals passing away. Both upheavals shake (c) neutral
their surroundings, leaving creatures or people (d) fleeting
profoundly changed.
Ans
26. When enormous trees collapse, even powerful (b) hurtful
animals, like lions, choose to ______ in tall
In grief, insight can intensify regrets or unspoken
grass.
sentiments, causing extra ache. Angelou describes
(a) hide quietly
this as clarity that “hurts,” revealing every missed
(b) hunker down
opportunity or kindness left undone.
(c) flee together
(d) remain watchful 30. The poet notes that in grief, memory becomes
Ans suddenly ______, forcing us to review
moments we neglected.
(b) hunker down (a) uncertain
Angelou’s poem shows that such a massive event (b) sharpened
startles the bravest creatures. Lions squat low (c) peaceful
(“hunker down”) to feel safer, conveying how (d) playful
universal the shockwave of loss can be.
Ans
27. Smaller forest creatures, too overwhelmed to (b) sharpened
react, often ______ into complete stillness.
The poem highlights regretful thoughts of what
(a) trot
we left unsaid or undone. This heightened
(b) recoil
recollection stings as we confront real or imagined
(c) scuttle
failings tied to the departed.
(d) swirl
Ans 31. Once a great soul dies, the poet observes our
emotional world ______, as if the core of our
(b) recoil reality disappears.
Their senses are “eroded beyond fear.” Rather (a) remains stable
than fleeing, they shrink back and remain mute, (b) takes leave
displaying the poem’s theme that severe upheaval (c) floats upward
can paralyze even those typically active or vocal. (d) expands widely

28. The poem compares the death of “great souls” to Ans

a shift in the air, making it seem ______ and (b) takes leave
difficult to breathe.
We lose a foundational presence, so our usual
(a) thick
sense of “normal” recedes. The poem likens this
(b) normal
to a reality shift, leaving us feeling disoriented in
(c) sterile
the absence of their influence.
(d) warm

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

(a) “The stars winked mischievously in the dark 49. Which of the given options contains the figure of
night.” speech that appears in the following line from the
(b) “The mountain trembled as the thunder poem:
roared.” “The air around us becomes light, rare, sterile.”
(c) “The river danced to the rhythm of the wind.” (a) “The air turned heavy with grief, pressing on
(d) “The clock’s hands marched steadily forward.” our hearts.”
(b) “The rain danced joyfully across the parched
Ans
land.”
(b) “The mountain trembled as the thunder (c) “The silence wrapped around us like a warm
roared.” blanket.”
Both lines use personification to attribute human- (d) “The stars twinkled like distant diamonds.”
like qualities to non-human elements, emphasizing Ans
the dramatic impact of the falling trees or thunder.
(a) “The air turned heavy with grief, pressing on
47. Which of the given options contains the figure of our hearts.”
speech that appears in the following line from the Both lines use symbolism to depict emotional
poem: states (grief or sterility) through descriptions of
“Small things recoil into silence, their senses the air, creating a powerful mood.
eroded beyond fear.”
(a) “The flowers blushed under the morning sun.” 50. Which of the given options contains the figure of
(b) “The wind whispered through the empty speech that appears in the following line from the
streets.” poem:
(c) “The frightened deer froze, its senses dulled “Peace blooms, slowly and always irregularly.”
with terror.” (a) “Hope springs eternal in the human breast.”
(d) “The ocean held its breath before the storm.” (b) “The flowers blossomed, filling the air with
sweetness.”
Ans
(c) “Kindness grows like a gentle stream carving
(c) “The frightened deer froze, its senses dulled its way through stone.”
with terror.” (d) “The dawn spread its arms slowly over the
Both lines use imagery to vividly describe the hills.”
state of fear and withdrawal, evoking a strong Ans
sensory response.
(c) “Kindness grows like a gentle stream carving
48. Which of the given options contains the figure of its way through stone.”
speech that appears in the following line from the Both lines use metaphor to liken abstract
poem: concepts (peace or kindness) to natural processes,
“Our minds, formed and informed by their emphasizing their gradual and unpredictable
radiance, fall away.” nature.
(a) “The moonlight bathed the earth in its soft
glow.” 51. Choose the option that arranges these details in
(b) “Their guidance was the beacon that shaped the poem’s logical order:
our thoughts.” 1. Even mighty lions become fearful.
(c) “The sun’s rays painted the horizon with 2. Towering trees crash, shaking distant rocks.
golden hues.” 3. Elephants slowly retreat to safer ground.
(d) “The mountains stood as silent guardians 4. The poem compares falling trees to a looming
over the valley.” catastrophe.
(a) 4, 2, 1, 3
Ans
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4
(b) “Their guidance was the beacon that shaped (c) 2, 4, 1, 3
our thoughts.” (d) 1, 3, 4, 2
Both lines use metaphor to symbolize the Ans
profound influence of great souls on our thoughts
and understanding. (c) 2, 4, 1, 3

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39. For tiny forest creatures, the impact is so strong Under extreme stress, these small animals become
that their senses become ______ beyond fear. mute and still, too stunned to show normal fear
(a) boosted reactions. The shock of a great tree’s fall leaves
(b) diverted them psychologically numbed.
(c) eroded
(d) blocked 43. After a revered person dies, the air feels oddly thin,
bringing a painful ______ to the survivors.
Ans (a) retreat from all vivid memories
(e) eroded (b) shift into unending contentment now
(c) awareness of unspoken commitments lost
They’re paralyzed by the event, losing normal
(d) urge to celebrate the new era
reactions. “Eroded” indicates that these senses
wear away, overshadowed by shock rather than Ans
pure terror, underscoring the intensity of the (c) awareness of unspoken commitments lost
phenomenon.
As grief sets in, people recall missed opportunities-
40. In describing the aftermath of a great loss, the promised activities or affectionate words they
poem says that newly restored senses softly never said. This stark reminder of what they
______: “They existed. They existed.” failed to do intensifies their sorrow.
(a) shout
(b) whisper 44. The poet emphasizes that our connected reality
(c) blink seems to ______ once major guiding figures
(d) vanish vanish.
(a) resurface stronger with unwavering purpose
Ans (b) collapse, leaving us adrift in sorrow
(b) whisper (c) glow brighter, fueled by new mentors
(d) scatter into countless fleeting illusions
Post-grief, our heightened perceptions gently
remind us of the profound individuals we’ve lost, Ans
urging us to recall their presence (“They existed”) (b) collapse, leaving us adrift in sorrow
and to aim for personal growth in their honor.
Angelou describes how a cornerstone of our
41. When colossal trees topple, even bold animals worldview vanishes along with the departed.
react by seeking ______. Their absence causes disorientation, indicating
(a) a new path to flee quickly the deep reliance we had on their presence.
(b) refuge from the unexpected danger
(c) strong alliances with each other 45. Ultimately, a gentle, uneven calm replaces agony,
(d) direction from smaller forest creatures prompting us to remember “They existed,” which
spurs us to ______.
Ans (a) improve ourselves in their memory
(b) refuge from the unexpected danger (b) lament the universe for taking them
(c) disregard all their influences now
Angelou shows that powerful creatures, like
(d) stop reflecting on the past fully
elephants or lions, become cautious when towering
trees collapse. Their instinct is to find safety, Ans
indicating just how impactful such events are. (a) improve ourselves in their memory
42. The poet describes tiny forest dwellers, their In the final lines, Angelou urges us to evolve,
senses ______ from the overwhelming impact. guided by the legacy of those who’ve departed.
(a) rapidly expanding under fresh hopes Their existence compels us to grow and refine our
(b) refocusing to guard each other well lives in their honor.
(c) eroded beyond any fearful response
(d) awakening to stronger, louder calls 46. Which of the given options contains the figure of
speech that appears in the following line from the
Ans poem:
(c) eroded beyond any fearful response “When great trees fall, rocks on distant hills
shudder.”

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

beneficial or more painful? Provide one short (v) The poet underscores unfulfilled gestures and
reason in support of your view. words left unspoken.
Do these lines imply we should be more
Ans
forthcoming in life?
(i) They become thin and unwelcoming, almost Explain briefly, giving one reason for your
as if the physical world itself is stripped of perspective.
its usual warmth and vitality. It’s a way of
showing how profound absence can alter our Ans
entire environment when we lose someone (i) The poem implies that grief makes our
influential. recollection painfully acute, as if the mind
(ii) Describing the air as “light, rare, sterile” grows keener when someone important
suggests a vacuum-like quality in mourning, dies. This heightened memory brings forth
where normal comforts and richness of life instances we might normally overlook, forcing
seem drained. Grief is shown to radically us to confront what we’ve lost in stark detail.
change our emotional and sensory reality. (ii) Naming “kind words unsaid” and “promised
(iii) By noting we can only breathe “briefly” and walks never taken” underlines how easily we
see “with a hurtful clarity,” the poet conveys postpone affection or quality time, assuming
how shock forces us to confront an intensified tomorrow is guaranteed. Their absence
awareness, but that awareness cuts deeply becomes more piercing when the opportunity
and feels exhausting to maintain. to fulfill them is gone forever.
(iv) They capture the abrupt shift from normalcy (iii) Saying memory “gnaws on” suggests a
to hollow stillness, giving a glimpse of how, in relentless, consuming ache rather than a
the moment of loss, everyday functions like gentle recollection. It likens regret to a slow
breathing or seeing turn into reminders of bite at one’s conscience, conveying deep
pain and absence. emotional turmoil instead of mere nostalgia.
(v) It can be beneficial because it forces us to (iv) These lines stress the haunting realization
notice what we once took for granted, but it that once a great soul departs, all incomplete
also amplifies pain. gestures weigh heavier. By drawing attention
This clarity acts like a stark spotlight, making to little moments left undone, the poem
grief undeniably real and immediate. accentuates an unspoken longing and self-
reproach amid grief.
4. Read the following lines from Maya Angelou’s (v) They hint that we ought to speak kindly and
poem When Great Trees Fall and answer the share experiences while we can.
questions that follow: One reason is that unspoken thoughts and
“Our memory, suddenly sharpened, unfulfilled plans can become painful reminders
examines, of lost chances once the person we cherish is
gnaws on kind words no longer around.
unsaid,
promised walks 5. Read the following lines from Maya Angelou’s
never taken.” poem When Great Trees Fall and answer the
(i) How does the poem portray the effect of a questions that follow:
loss on our memory, and what does it mean “Great souls die and
for it to be “suddenly sharpened”? our reality, bound to
(ii) Why might the poet refer to “kind words them, takes leave of us.
unsaid” and “promised walks never taken,” Our souls,
and how does this emphasize the nature of dependent upon their
regret? nurture,
(iii) In what way do the words “gnaws on” suggest now shrink, wizened.”
a deeper emotional pain rather than a simple (i) How do these lines depict the effect on our
recollection? “reality” when someone truly significant
(iv) Discuss how these lines highlight the poem’s passes away?
focus on missed connections and lingering (ii) Why does the poem highlight that our souls
remorse when we confront the finality of are “dependent upon their nurture,” and
death. what implication does that carry?

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First, massive trees topple, disturbing faraway (c) 4, 3, 1, 2

rocks (2). The poet frames this event as (d) 2, 4, 3, 1
catastrophic (4). Lions then hunker down (1),
Ans
while even elephants lumber away in alarm (3).
(a) 4, 2, 3, 1
52. Pick the correct order of statements from When
After the poem notes a great soul’s passing
Great Trees Fall:
(4), we struggle to breathe properly (2). Then
1. Smaller creatures shrink into silence.
comes hurtful clarity (3), culminating in regrets
2. The crash of great trees halts normal activity.
surfacing, tormenting us over unspoken kindness
3. Fear robs them of usual senses.
(1).
4. Terrified animals lose the ability to react
further. 55. Decide which arrangement fits these lines:
(a) 4, 1, 3, 2 1. Reality “takes leave of us” when great souls
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4 vanish.
(c) 1, 2, 4, 3 2. We’re “not maddened but reduced” to
(d) 1, 3, 2, 4 ignorance.
Ans 3. Our nurtured souls shrink without their
guidance.
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4 4. We find ourselves stuck in dark, cold caves
The poem first shows the event’s impact (2). Next, emotionally.
small beings grow mute (1). They’re overwhelmed, (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
losing normal responses (3), ultimately too (b) 3, 2, 4, 1
stunned to do anything else (4). (c) 2, 4, 3, 1
(d) 4, 1, 2, 3
53. Decide which ordering best fits these ideas:
1. Great souls’ deaths cause the surrounding air Ans
to feel empty. (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
2. This light, rare atmosphere fosters brief,
First, normal life slips away (1). Our souls, once
hurtful clarity.
fed by their presence, grow smaller (3), leaving us
3. Their absence deprives us of security.
neither mad nor stable but “reduced” (2), isolated
4. We realize regrets about undone words or
in a metaphoric dark cave (4).
actions.
(a) 1, 2, 4, 3
(b) 2, 1, 4, 3
(c) 4, 1, 2, 3 56. Select the correct order of thematic points:
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 1. Peace emerges only after some time.
Ans 2. The poem closes by affirming “They existed,”
spurring us to improve.
(a) 1, 2, 4, 3
3. Grief initially feels relentless.
When major figures die, the air becomes oddly 4. Soothing energy gradually helps our senses
thin (1). That change yields painful insight (2), recover.
prompting regrets (4). Finally, we feel a loss of the (a) 3, 1, 4, 2
stability they once provided (3). (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
(c) 2, 1, 3, 4
54. Identify the correct sequence of the poem’s
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2
statements:
1. Our sharper memory reexamines what we left Ans
unspoken. (a) 3, 1, 4, 2
2. We initially breathe in short, shallow breaths.
Angelou notes grief’s early intensity (3), but
3. We see everything with a painful clarity.
eventually, a slow, uneven peace arrives (1).
4. Great souls die, altering how we experience
A comforting vibration mends our senses (4).
the air.
Finally, we recall their existence and vow to be
(a) 4, 2, 3, 1
better (2).
(b) 3, 1, 2, 4

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

Ans (b) A low, destructive hum

(a) Sharpened (c) A soothing, comforting feeling
(d) A sudden explosive surge
The poet shows that grief intensifies recollection,
making every regret or unspoken word painfully Ans
vivid. This clarity can be hurtful because it A soothing, comforting feeling
highlights what we never took the chance to
express. Angelou labels it an “electric vibration,” but
it’s not harmful-it’s gentle, enveloping those
18. After great souls die, our minds, once formed by grieving in calmness. This subtle energy recharges
their “radiance,” do what? hearts left depleted by tragedy, fueling gradual
(a) Expand further restoration.
(b) Begin to fall away
(c) Glow more brilliantly 22. In the last lines, the poet repeats “They existed”
(d) Remain unaffected to remind us that ______.
(a) The departed souls were illusions
Ans (b) We can become better in their memory
(b) Begin to fall away (c) They actually returned from the dead
(d) Their existence had no impact
Their guiding light shaped our thinking. Without
it, we experience a loss of confidence or structure. Ans
Our minds slip into uncertainty-like stepping into (b) We can become better in their memory
a dark, cold cave missing that guiding radiance.
Angelou’s repetitive phrase underscores that
19. The poet describes a period before peace arrives these remarkable beings truly lived and left an
as one of ______. enduring legacy. Their presence should inspire
(a) dark, cold ignorance those left behind to “be and be better.”
(b) immediate resolution
(c) bright new beginnings 23. Whose senses does Angelou mention are “restored,
(d) swift return to normal never to be the same”?
(a) The small forest creatures
Ans (b) Those mourning the departed great souls
(a) dark, cold ignorance (c) The returning elephants
(d) People with no emotional response
Angelou likens the aftermath of a great soul’s
death to being in a “dark, cold cave,” emphasizing Ans
confusion, sorrow, and the feeling of losing (b) Those mourning the departed great souls
essential insight once provided by that person.
Although healing emerges, we remain changed by
20. Which final effect does Angelou suggest eventually the loss. We can sense normalcy returning, but
“blooms” following these great losses? it’s “never the same” because grief permanently
(a) Greater devastation alters our perspective and emotional state.
(b) A slow and irregular peace
(c) Absolute emptiness 24. Which phrase suggests that animals are deeply
(d) Anger that lingers permanently affected by major natural events?
(a) “Even elephants lumber after safety.”
Ans (b) “Elephants stand rigid and fearless.”
(b) A slow and irregular peace (c) “No creatures ever react to trees falling.”
(d) “Birds sing joyfully upon hearing crashes.”
Though not immediate or total, peace creeps in at
its own pace. The poem emphasizes that healing Ans
from such a loss cannot be rushed, but comes in (a) “Even elephants lumber after safety.”
uneven, comforting waves.
This line highlights how formidable beings-like
21. What kind of “electric vibration” fills the spaces elephants-are compelled to move away in alarm.
after healing starts? Symbolically, it shows that no one remains
(a) A chaotic roar untouched by a significant, destabilizing event.

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Statement (2) : They immediately unite to find 65. Consider how the poem portrays the lasting
safety, making noise to alert others. emotional impact when a powerful presence
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false vanishes. Look at these statements and pick the
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false correct relationship:
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) Statement (1) : Our familiar reality departs with
(d) (1) and (2) are independent the great soul, leaving us uncertain.
Statement (2) : Immediately, a bright sense of joy
Ans
and comfort replaces the grief.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Maya Angelou stresses that small creatures (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
“recoil into silence,” not rally in a group. They’re (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
too overwhelmed to make any loud response. So, (d) (1) and (2) are independent
(2) disagrees with the poem’s portrayal. Ans
63. According to Angelou, the poem changes focus (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
from massive trees to describing the loss of Angelou emphasizes how losing an essential
important people. Compare these two statements figure disrupts everything (1). She also notes that
and determine the correct option: healing takes time and is irregular, so instant joy
Statement (1) : When great souls die, people (2) is not part of the poem.
sense the air becoming thin or “sterile.”
Statement (2) : This eerie change in the air makes 66. Think about the poem’s middle portion, describing
breathing feel temporarily shallow. how minds and souls react to a beloved figure’s
(a) (1) and (2) have no direct link absence. How do these statements relate?
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Statement (1) : The mind was once “informed by
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) their radiance” but now struggles.
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other Statement (2) : This inner collapse leads us to feel
stuck in “dark, cold caves” of sorrow.
Ans
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
The poem says the environment feels “light, rare, (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
sterile,” which leads to short, strained breathing. (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
Hence, both statements describe interrelated Ans
aspects of grief’s immediate effect on survivors.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
64. Focus on regrets and memory after a great soul’s With the guiding light gone, the mind loses
departure, as described in the poem. Which option confidence, leading to that cave-like hopelessness.
best explains the link between these statements? Thus, statement (1) triggers statement (2): losing
Statement (1) : Grief makes our memory painfully someone’s glow sinks survivors into emotional
sharp, revealing unspoken words and missed darkness.
opportunities.
Statement (2) : The poem claims we instantly 67. Reflect on the poem’s final stages, which mention
forget all sorrow, moving on without regrets. an eventual calm returning. Read these statements
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false and decide how they connect:
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Statement (1) : Peace reenters our lives gradually,
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) never in a straight path.
(d) (1) and (2) have no link Statement (2) : The poem says all sorrow ends
at once.
Ans
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
Angelou highlights how we dwell on “kind words (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
unsaid,” intensifying regret. She never implies (d) (1) and (2) are independent
quick healing or amnesia about sadness. Thus, Ans
statement (2) contradicts the poem’s main idea.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

57. Determine which set of steps fits the poem’s Ans

progression: (a) 4, 3, 1, 2
1. Falling trees show catastrophic power, scaring
First, Angelou transitions from forest imagery to
major forest animals.
human experiences (4). We find the air’s sterility
2. Tiny creatures lose all typical responses.
(3), then endure “hurtful clarity” (1), which leads
3. The poem parallels this to great souls dying.
us to agonize over missed opportunities (2).
4. Humans, confronted by such a loss, feel the
air become “light, rare, sterile.” 60. 10. Choose which listing orders the final sentiments
(a) 2, 1, 3, 4 in When Great Trees Fall:
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 1. Peace forms slowly, in a soothing electric way.
(c) 1, 3, 4, 2 2. Our senses recover but remain changed.
(d) 4, 2, 1, 3 3. We recall that the departed “existed, they
Ans existed.”
4. We are urged to “be better” for their memory.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 (a) 1, 4, 3, 2
We begin with the literal forest scenario (1 and (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
2). Then Angelou pivots to the metaphor for (c) 2, 3, 1, 4
human grief (3), noting how people experience (d) 4, 1, 2, 3
similarly suffocating conditions (4) when losing
Ans
a great soul.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4
58. Pick which arrangement accurately matches these
First, a slow, uneven peace arrives (1). Next, we
poem references:
sense partial restoration (2). The poem emphasizes
1. Lions crouch in grass; elephants lumber away.
“They existed” (3), culminating in an invitation
2. The poet transitions to discussing lost “great
to improve ourselves in their honor (4).
souls.”
3. Smaller beings recoil in silence. 61. In “When Great Trees Fall,” nature reacts
4. The air becomes strangely thin and sterile. powerfully when massive trees collapse. Read
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4 the two statements below and decide how they
(b) 3, 4, 2, 1 connect or differ according to the poem:
(c) 2, 1, 3, 4 Statement (1) : When giant trees tumble, strong
(d) 4, 1, 2, 3 creatures like lions become frightened and hide in
Ans tall grass.
Statement (2) : The poem shows these mighty
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4 animals continuing as if nothing happened.
First, big forest creatures show alarm (1). Next, (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
tiny creatures go mute (3). Then the poem shifts (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
to the parallel concept: how human sorrow arises (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
when “great souls” depart (2), making the air (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
sterile (4).
Ans
59. Identify the proper sequence: (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
1. Grief causes our “eyes” to see painfully
In the poem, even brave lions feel alarm and
clearly.
crouch down. That contradicts any suggestion
2. Memory dwells on unsaid words, incomplete
that they ignore the event. Thus, (1) matches the
promises.
text, and (2) is incorrect.
3. We briefly breathe, but the air feels sterile.
4. The poem shifts from literal trees falling to 62. Consider how tiny forest creatures handle the
metaphorical human loss. thunderous impact of a fallen tree, based on the
(a) 4, 3, 1, 2 poem. Check the statements below to identify
(b) 3, 1, 4, 2 their relationship:
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 Statement (1) : Small animals become silent and
(d) 2, 3, 4, 1 still, losing normal responses when trees crash.

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and a vast, invisible network binding all parts overwhelmed, withdrawing into complete
of the environment together. silence as a protective response to the sudden
(iii) Lions, customarily dominant, now hide, and disruption.
elephants-renowned for their strength-slowly (ii) Emphasizing how “small things” shrink back
retreat. Their behaviors imply that these underscores their vulnerability. The silence
“great trees” are essential pillars of stability. symbolizes their stunned or paralyzed state,
When they fall, even the most powerful must revealing the profound ripple effect of a mighty
acknowledge their own fragility. presence collapsing in their environment.
(iv) The tone is initially one of gravity and (iii) By saying their senses are “eroded beyond
upheaval. Detailing bold creatures reduced fear,” the poet suggests these creatures are
to seeking safety introduces a sense of awe: too frightened even to react normally. It
nature’s hierarchy is temporarily upended. intensifies the sense of devastation, showing
This shift in expected roles imparts a solemn that this loss shatters their usual instincts.
yet unifying atmosphere. (iv) These lines convey a hushed, almost reverential
(v) While the lines may describe an actual forest, stillness. The combination of falling giants and
they can also symbolize the fall of great cowering small beings creates an atmosphere
figures or pillars in a community. of awe and sorrow, reminding us of nature’s
Depicting proud animals suddenly vulnerable delicate balance upended by a cataclysmic
underlines the poem’s key message: when event.
monumental supports give way, even the (v) It can be read literally, illustrating how
strongest among us may feel shaken, reminding animals respond when a massive tree falls,
readers of our collective dependency on those but it also works as a metaphor for how
“great trees.” people can be emotionally stunned when they
lose someone influential.
2. Read the following extract from Maya Angelou’s Seeing these small creatures so deeply affected
poem When Great Trees Fall and answer the reflects how humans, too, can feel numb and
questions that follow: uncomprehending in the wake of monumental
“When great trees fall loss.
in forests,
small things recoil into silence, 3. Read the following lines from Maya Angelou’s
their senses poem When Great Trees Fall and answer the
eroded beyond fear.” questions that follow:
(i) What effect does the poem suggest a “great “When great souls die,
tree” falling has on the smaller creatures in the air around us becomes
the forest? light, rare, sterile.
(ii) Why might the poet stress the image of We breathe, briefly.
“small things recoil into silence”? Our eyes, briefly,
(iii) How does describing their “senses eroded see with
beyond fear” heighten the emotional impact a hurtful clarity.”
of this event? (i) What does the poem imply happens to the
(iv) In what way do these lines create a mood of atmosphere around us when “great souls
solemnity and vulnerability within the forest die”?
setting? (ii) In what way might the words “light, rare,
(v) The poem presents small creatures responding sterile” affect our understanding of grief’s
dramatically to a great loss. immediate aftermath?
Do you interpret this as purely literal, or (iii) Why does the poet emphasize that we
might it also serve as a metaphor for human “breathe, briefly” and see “with a hurtful
reactions? clarity”?
Briefly justify your view. (iv) How do these lines create a sense of sudden,
disorienting loss in those left behind?
Ans
(v) The poem describes an unsettling yet sharp
(i) The poem indicates that when a towering tree realization after a significant loss.
falls, it sends a shock through the forest so Do you think this clarity is ultimately
strong that even the tiniest animals become

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

Angelou specifically states that peace “blooms Ans

slowly and irregularly.” She does not claim abrupt (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
or total relief. Hence, statement (1) aligns with
Throughout the poem, Angelou parallels the
the poem, while (2) contradicts it.
natural upheaval from tree falls to the profound
68. Now compare these statements about how emotional shock when noble figures die. Each
“soothing electric vibration” affects mourners. scenario underscores a universal sense of instability
Which choice best fits? and mourning.
Statement (1) : This quiet energy helps restore
people’s senses after grief.
Statement (2) : Despite that renewal, the poem
notes we’re not the same as before. EXTRACT BASED QUESTION
(a) (1) and (2) are unrelated
(b) (1) is the cause for (2)
1. Read the following extract from Maya Angelou’s
(c) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
poem When Great Trees Fall and answer the
(d) (2) is true and (1) is false
questions that follow:
Ans “When great trees fall,
(c) (1) and (2) reinforce each other rocks on distant hills shudder,
lions hunker down
The new energy heals our broken spirits (1). in tall grasses,
Although we recover, the poem says we remain and even elephants
changed by sorrow (2). Both statements focus on lumber after safety.”
the layered process of grieving. (i) What impact does the falling of a “great
tree” have on the surrounding environment,
69. Think about the poem’s repeated line, “They
and how do the creatures react?
existed. They existed.” Evaluate how these
(ii) How do the words “rocks on distant hills
statements fit:
shudder” reinforce the poem’s sense of
Statement (1) : That repetition highlights the
interconnectedness?
real impact of those who died.
(iii) What significance do lions “hunkering down”
Statement (2) : It also prompts us to be better in
and elephants “lumbering after safety” carry
their memory.
in this context?
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(iv) Comment on the overall tone or mood these
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
lines establish. How does the poet’s choice of
(c) (1) is unrelated to (2)
animals and actions contribute to it?
(d) (1) and (2) follow logically
(v) In your view, does the poem use “great trees”
Ans as a literal or metaphorical idea, or both?
(d) (1) and (2) follow logically Explain with reference to these lines how
the image of strong creatures seeking refuge
Angelou’s refrain insists on their existence, urging
heightens the poem’s central message.
survivors to honor them by becoming improved
versions of themselves. These ideas flow naturally: Ans
remembering their life leads to personal growth. (i) The fall of these immense trees triggers
shockwaves through the landscape. Even
70. Lastly, consider the overall metaphor linking
mighty animals respond with caution or
fallen trees to departed great souls. Which set of
fear: lions seek cover in tall grass, while
statements best describes their relationship?
elephants withdraw to safer ground. This
Statement (1) : Fallen trees disturb nature as
reaction highlights the profound disturbance
deeply as a great soul’s death disturbs humanity.
caused by the loss of something so large and
Statement (2) : Both major events cause alarm
foundational.
and transition, shifting the usual balance of life.
(ii) By saying that rocks on distant hills
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
“shudder,” the poem emphasizes that no
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
being or element in nature remains untouched
(c) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
by the event. It suggests a shared vulnerability
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other

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(iii) Discuss the meaning behind the phrase “takes (iii) Discuss why the poet contrasts being
leave of us” in connection to losing a “great “maddened” with “reduced to the unutterable
soul.” ignorance” in dark caves.
(iv) In what way does “shrink, wizened” convey (iv) In what way do these words heighten the
both a physical and emotional transformation sense of emptiness or deprivation experienced
for those left behind? by the survivors?
(v) The poet suggests that our lives are deeply (v) The poet suggests a stark mental descent
entwined with such guiding figures. after losing those we depend on.
Do these lines imply that our identity partly Do you think this descent implies hopelessness
dissolves without them? or a temporary stage of grief?
Briefly explain one reason to support your Briefly explain one reason for your view.
understanding. Ans
Ans (i) They imply our mental framework, once
(i) They show that when someone vital to our enriched and stabilized by a great person’s
existence dies, the shared world we knew with influence, collapses in that person’s absence.
them fundamentally changes. Part of our We lose the guidance and uplifting force they
familiar framework vanishes, leaving us in a provided, leaving our thoughts less certain
starkly different emotional landscape. and more prone to confusion.
(ii) Emphasizing our reliance on their care (ii) Their “radiance” speaks to wisdom, warmth,
underscores how these influential individuals and uplifting qualities that inform our
help shape our growth and sense of belonging. perspectives. When that brilliance disappears,
Without their guidance, we lose crucial the insight and assurance they imparted
support, and life feels less secure. vanish too, rendering our minds more fragile
(iii) It suggests that whatever reality we shared and unsettled.
with that “great soul” disappears along (iii) By stating “not so much maddened” but
with them, making us feel like we’ve lost a rather plunged into “unutterable ignorance,”
dimension of life itself, no longer anchored by the poet emphasizes that it isn’t fury but a
their presence. vast blankness that overtakes us-a regression
(iv) Using “shrink, wizened” evokes an image of into a dim, pre-enlightened state rather than
withering both in spirit and perspective. The a raging mental breakdown.
emotional blow reduces our confidence and (iv) The imagery of “dark, cold caves” underscores
vigor, almost like a plant deprived of essential a profound stripping away of light and
sunlight and water. knowledge. This setting invokes desolation and
(v) Yes, it implies our sense of self is partly tied backwardness, showing how grief can undo hard-
to those who nurture us. won clarity and reduce us to raw vulnerability.
One reason is that losing such a cornerstone (v) It appears more like a temporary yet
weakens the structures we rely on, so part of harrowing stage of deep mourning rather
our identity feels diminished in their absence. than total hopelessness.
Because the poem acknowledges a crippling
6. Read the following lines from Maya Angelou’s loss but also suggests that time and memory
poem When Great Trees Fall and answer the eventually allow some form of renewal, this
questions that follow: descent seems part of a grieving process
“Our minds, formed rather than a final defeat.
and informed by their
7. Read the following lines from Maya Angelou’s
radiance, fall away.
We are not so much maddened poem When Great Trees Fall and answer the
as reduced to the unutterable ignorance of questions that follow:
dark, cold “And when great souls die,
caves.” after a period peace blooms,
(i) How do these lines describe the state of our slowly and always
minds when “great souls” are lost? irregularly. Spaces fill
(ii) What is the significance of their “radiance” in with a kind of
shaping us, and how is that lost? soothing electric vibration.”

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Ch 3 : When Great Trees Fall

(i) How does the poem describe the aftermath “Our senses, restored, never
“when great souls die,” and what does this to be the same, whisper to us.
suggest about the passage of time? They existed. They existed.
(ii) In what way does the notion of “peace We can be. Be and be
blooms” contrast with the earlier sense of loss better. For they existed.”
or shock? (i) How does the poem depict the state of our
(iii) Why does the poet stress that this peace “senses” when recovery from grief begins, and
emerges “slowly and always irregularly,” and what does “never to be the same” imply?
how might that reflect the process of healing? (ii) Why might the poet repeat “They existed.
(iv) Discuss the meaning of “spaces fill with a They existed,” and how does this emphasize
kind of soothing electric vibration.” In what the enduring impact of those who have passed?
sense does this line evoke renewal? (iii) What is the significance of “We can be. Be
(v) The poem highlights a gradual, uneven return and be better” in terms of the poem’s broader
to calm following a profound loss. message about personal growth?
Would you consider this “soothing electric (iv) In what way do these lines suggest a hopeful
vibration” a true resolution of grief or a sign forward movement, despite the pain of loss?
of adapted resilience? (v) The poet insists that by remembering “they
Briefly explain your view. existed,” we can improve ourselves. How do
Ans you interpret this call to “be better”?
Briefly offer one reason that supports your
(i) They indicate that after the shock and sorrow,
interpretation.
a gentle sense of calm eventually appears, yet
it does so only after some time has passed. Ans
This idea implies that grieving is not instant; (i) They are shown as renewed yet forever
rather, it transforms into a quiet acceptance altered-regaining functionality but carrying
as time unfolds. the profound memory of loss. “Never to be
(ii) Earlier lines focus on sorrow, confusion, the same” indicates a permanent shift in
or even numbness. By contrast, “peace perception, acknowledging that mourning
blooms” introduces a feeling of relief or hope transforms one’s outlook on life.
that dispels the overwhelming darkness. It (ii) Repeating “They existed” underscores the
underscores the poem’s message that life can undeniable reality of those great souls. Even
move toward solace, despite initial despair. in death, their presence lingers, reminding us
(iii) The poet’s emphasis on gradual, uneven that their influence remains vital and urging
development suggests that healing does not us not to forget their lasting importance.
follow a strict pattern. Grief eases in fits (iii) It highlights the poem’s encouragement to
and starts, mirroring real human experience evolve in the wake of grief. Their existence
where recovery seldom happens in a smooth, not only shaped us but also compels us to
predictable manner. continue growing, improving, and honoring
(iv) It implies that once-emptied spaces start to their legacy by striving to do more.
hum with a gentle, life-affirming energy. This (iv) Despite earlier sorrow, these lines spark
“soothing electric vibration” evokes the quiet hope by showing that after loss, a gentle yet
spark of renewal, indicating that something determined recovery emerges. This renewed
comforting and alive can fill the void left behind. sense of purpose enables us to move on with a
(v) It seems more like a resilience that helps deeper awareness of life’s fragility.
people adapt to profound loss, rather than an (v) She implies that remembering these
outright conclusion of mourning. souls should prompt a moral or personal
The “vibration” suggests they never fully improvement in our lives.
return to their old selves but discover a One reason is that their legacy fuels our
tender, renewed strength that allows them to resolve to live more compassionately, carrying
continue onward. forward the qualities they embodied.
8. Read the following lines from Maya Angelou’s
poem When Great Trees Fall and answer the
www.nodia.i
questions that follow:

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CHAPTER
4
A CONSIDERABLE SPECK

INTRODUCTIO than a floating particle disturbed by his breath, he

soon realizes that this speck is alive and moving
on its own.
“A Considerable Speck,” written by Robert Frost,
2. Revelation of the Tiny Insect : A closer look
is a poem that highlights the poet’s remarkable
reveals that the speck is, in fact, an insect. It
ability to notice even the tiniest details. While
darts about, clearly aware of the narrator’s pen
writing, he notices what appears to be a simple
and cautiously trying to avoid it. Once it reaches
speck of dust, but soon discovers that it is actually
a patch of wet ink, the insect tastes or sniffs it but
a living insect-a tiny mite-trying to evade his
quickly turns away, as if repelled by the smell.
pen. Intrigued by its persistence, Frost realizes
3. The Insect’s Struggle and Surrender : Despite
that even this minute creature can think and
its best efforts, the creature’s attempts to flee
make decisions. Touched by its determination, he
become frantic. It seems to have tiny feet-enough
allows the mite to remain on the page. Through
to scurry around-but eventually realizes it cannot
this thoughtful gesture, Frost reminds us that
escape the narrator’s control. Overwhelmed, it
every living being, however small, deserves our
gives up in the middle of the paper.
attention and respect.
4. The Narrator’s Attitude : Although he is not a
committed animal lover or advocate, the narrator
decides not to interfere. He simply allows the
ABOUT THE POE insect to remain on the page, waiting for it to
calm down or possibly fall asleep.
5. Appreciation of Intelligence : Ultimately, the
Robert Frost (1874–1963) was a famous American
narrator recognizes the insect’s survival instincts
poet, known for his deep and insightful writing
and respects its small but significant display of
style. Born in San Francisco, he moved to New
intelligence. He admires the creature’s determined
Hampshire after his father’s death. Although he
efforts, reinforcing the idea that any show of
briefly attended Dartmouth College, he spent
thoughtfulness-no matter how small-deserves
much of his early life working on farms and in
acknowledgment.
factories. Frost faced many challenges getting his
poems published but eventually found success
with collections like A Boy’s Will (1913) and
North of Boston (1914). Over his lifetime, he won WORD MEANINGS & EXPLANATIO
four Pulitzer Prizes-an unmatched record. Some
of his well-known poems, such as “The Road Not
Taken” and “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Extract 1
Evening,” have become classics. A speck that would have been beneath my sight
On any but a paper sheet so white
Set off across what I had written there.
And I had idly poised my pen in air
SUMMAR To stop it with a period of ink
When something strange about it made me think,
1. Encounter with the Tiny Particle : While writing This was no dust speck by my breathing blown,
on a clean sheet of paper, the narrator notices But unmistakably a living mite
what appears to be a speck of dust blowing across With inclinations it could call its own.
the page. Initially believing it to be nothing more

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

Word Meaning Cower down in desperation to accept

1. Speck : a very small spot/a small piece of dirt Whatever I accorded it of fate.
2. Set off : ran Word Meaning
3. Idly : without any purpose, lazily 1. Room : here, space
4. Poised : held steady 2. A set of them : here, a set of feet
5. Unmistakably : undoubtedly 3. Terror : fright
6. Mite : a very small insect 4. Cunning : cleverness
7. Inclinations : feelings 5. Faltered : walked with less confidence
Explanation 6. Hesitate : uncertain/reluctant
While writing on a clean white page, the narrator 7. Cower down: bend down and move backward
notices a tiny dot. At first, he thinks he has in fear
blown this speck of dust onto the paper with his 8. Desperation : a state of hopelessness leading
own breath. However, he soon realizes that it is to extreme behavior
actually a living creature-a tiny insect-because it 9. Accorded : granted
moves around quickly on its own. This tiny mite’s Explanation
movements suggest it has thoughts or intentions, The insect appears almost too small to have
as it tries to avoid being crushed by the narrator’s proper feet, yet it manages to scurry around in
pen. fear, doing everything it can to survive. Its frantic
movements and occasional cautious steps reveal
Extract 2 both terror and clever maneuvering. The narrator
It paused as with suspicion of my pen, observes how the creature wavers and finally stops
And then came racing wildly on again in the center of the page, as though giving up and
To where my manuscript was not yet dry; accepting whatever fate the narrator decides for
Then paused again and either drank or smelt- it.
With loathing, for again it turned to fly.
Plainly with an intelligence I dealt. Extract 4
Word Meaning I have none of the tenderer-than-thou
1. Racing : running Collectivistic regimenting love
2. Manuscript : piece of written text With which the modern world is being swept.
3. Paused : stopped But this poor microscopic item now!
4. Loathing : strong dislike or hatred Since it was nothing I knew evil of
5. Plainly : clearly I let it lie there till I hope it slept.

Explanation Word Meaning

1. Tenderer-than-thou : more loving/delicate
The tiny insect hesitates, seemingly wary of the than someone else (attitude)
narrator’s pen, then rushes straight toward a spot 2. Collectivistic : concerned with some group,
on the page where the ink is still wet. It pauses class, or society, not individuals
there, possibly sniffing or tasting the fresh ink. 3. Regimenting : something imposed strictly by
Whatever it senses, it clearly dislikes-so it turns the state or society
away, making another attempt to escape. In that 4. Swept : strongly affected
moment, the narrator realizes he is dealing with 5. Microscopic item : almost invisible insect
a living mind, however small, rather than an (mite)
unthinking speck of dust.
Explanation
The narrator confesses that he is not among those
Extract 3
who champion every living creature or advocate
It seemed too tiny to have room for feet, fiercely for animal rights. Still, he sees no harm
Yet must have had a set of them complete in this tiny mite. Because it poses no threat and
To express how much it didn’t want to die. seems so insignificant, he chooses to leave it alone
It ran with terror and with cunning crept. on the paper. He simply allows it to remain there,
It faltered: I could see it hesitate; hoping it might even settle down or fall asleep in
Then in the middle of the open sheet peace.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 357

Extract 5 Cunning crept

I have a mind myself and recognize With which
Mind when I meet with it in any guise Mind myself
No one can know how glad I am to find 4. Anaphora : Anaphora occurs when two or more
On any sheet the least display of mind. consecutive lines begin with the same word. One
example is:
Word Meaning “I let it lie there till I hope it slept.
1. Mind : ability to think I have a mind myself and recognize…”
2. Guise : cover 5. Inversion : Inversion alters the usual word order
3. Display of mind : show of intelligence in a sentence. Examples include:
Explanation “This was no dust speck by my breathing blown,
Finally, the narrator explains that because he Plainly with an intelligence I dealt.
has the ability to think, he can also recognize Yet must have had a set of them complete
thoughtfulness in others-even in a creature as On any sheet the least display of mind.”
small as a mite. He is delighted to discover a sign of 6. Enjambment : Enjambment is when a sentence
intelligence on his writing sheet, for its purposeful flows into the next line without a punctuation
actions and attempts to survive suggest that it break at the end. The poem demonstrates this in
possesses its own form of awareness and decision- various places, allowing the thought to continue
making. The narrator appreciates this display of beyond the line break.
“mind” in such an unexpected place.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

FIGURES OF SPEEC
1. In “A Considerable Speck,” what did the narrator
The poem provides detailed descriptions and initially think the tiny dot on the page was?
includes philosophical reflections. At first, it (a) A broken pen nib
appears straightforward, but there is a deeper (b) A speck of dust blown by breath
complexity to its themes. The poet uses an (c) A small coffee stain
irregular rhyme scheme, and the poem’s simple (d) A stray piece of eraser
rhythm helps emphasize the genuine tone.
Robert Frost has used several figures of speech Ans
(literary devices) in this poem, such as : (b) A speck of dust blown by breath
1. Oxymoron : This figure of speech pairs an adjective
At first, the narrator believes this moving spot
with a noun in a way that contradicts the noun’s
is just dust he accidentally blew onto the paper.
usual qualities. In the poem, “considerable speck”
Later, he realizes it’s a living mite with its own
serves as an example: “speck” suggests something
behaviors.
insignificant, yet it is called “considerable.”
2. Imagery : The poem uses visual imagery to
capture the mite’s movements, enabling readers
to imagine the tiny creature’s actions in vivid
2. The narrator was about to stop the dot with:
detail.
3. Alliteration : Alliteration is the repetition of (a) A quick flick of his finger
a consonant sound at the start of two or more (b) A small piece of cloth
consecutive words. Examples include: (c) A period of ink from his pen
Been beneath (d) A short breath of air
Made me Ans
Breathing blown
(c) A period of ink from his pen
Something strange
Could call As he’s writing, he contemplates dropping a final
My manuscript ink mark onto the speck to end its movement. The
Too tiny pen hovers, ready to deliver this lethal “period,”
Have had before he notices it’s alive.

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

highlighting the insect’s reaction to danger and Ans

its skill in avoiding the deadly pen. (b) “No one can know how glad I am to find... the
least display of mind”
18. The narrator confesses to not having “tenderer-
than-thou” love, meaning: Frost’s speaker values even a tiny creature’s
(a) He hates all creatures thoughtful actions. He celebrates discovering that
(b) He isn’t blindly protective of every living small spark of awareness, remarking on how such
thing minimal intelligence can delight him unexpectedly.
(c) He hunts insects for pleasure
22. Near the end, the speaker does what with the
(d) He wrote a treatise on insect kindness
mite, hoping it:
Ans (a) Falls prey to bigger insects
(b) He isn’t blindly protective of every living thing (b) Sleeps on the page peacefully
(c) Glides to another sheet to survive
Frost’s speaker clarifies that he isn’t an over-the- (d) Follows him outside into fresh air
top champion of minimal life forms. However, this
doesn’t stop him from sparing the mite, simply Ans
because it shows no harm or malice. (b) Sleeps on the page peacefully

19. Which phrase indicates the narrator wanted to He states he left it alone, unconcerned about harm
see if the speck was truly moving on its own? or removal. This final act shows forbearance,
(a) “I tapped the page lightly for proof” letting the mite remain at rest, indicating
(b) “Something strange about it made me think” compassion despite not championing all life forms.
(c) “I called out for a second witness”
23. The narrator’s reference to “my pen in air/to stop
(d) “I tried blowing softly to test it”
it with a period” best highlights:
Ans (a) He planned to feed the mite
(b) “Something strange about it made me think” (b) He nearly ended the mite’s life using his ink
(c) He was bored and doodling lines
He was about to crush it with ink, but paused (d) He decided to sign his name carefully
because of a curious, purposeful movement. That
odd behavior forced him to consider it might be Ans
alive, not a mere dust fleck. (b) He nearly ended the mite’s life using his ink

20. What evidence suggests the mite might have The pen hovered, poised to drop lethal ink on the
tested or disliked the wet ink? speck-like delivering a fatal period. That crucial
(a) It paused, then hurried away “with loathing” moment captures the difference between letting it
(b) It tried to bury itself in the ink live or crushing it.
(c) It nodded at the narrator approvingly
24. The poem implicitly compares the mite’s survival
(d) It built a small nest in the blot
instincts to:
Ans (a) A demonstration of cunning thought
(a) It paused, then hurried away “with loathing” (b) A flamboyant stage performance
(c) The cunning of a large predator
In the poem, the mite stops near fresh ink, (d) The reliance on group strategy
possibly smelling or tasting it, then flees quickly.
The word “loathing” signals its strong aversion, Ans
hinting it found the ink unpleasant. (a) A demonstration of cunning thought

21. The poem’s moral focus is on noticing intelligence By analyzing the mite’s careful hesitation,
in small forms, concluding that: sprints, and final cowering, Frost’s speaker sees
(a) “All small life is illusion” real intelligence-like a deliberate mind acting to
(b) “No one can know how glad I am to find... the preserve its life, despite its minuscule size.
least display of mind”
25. Overall, A Considerable Speck underlines the
(c) “Some mites are purely mechanical”
narrator’s pleasure in finding “mind” in:
(d) “We must condemn all worthless creatures”
(a) All mechanical robots

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(c) Ends up crushing it after all 14. What does “I have a mind myself and recognize/
(d) Takes it outside and sets it free Mind when I meet with it” convey?
(a) A belief that all insects think better than
Ans
humans
(b) Shows mercy to this microscopic insect (b) A fear of intelligence in small creatures
Though not professing universal compassion, (c) A delight in any display of conscious thought
the speaker recognizes no evil in the mite and (d) A longing to train the insect
spares it, letting it “lie there till I hope it slept,” Ans
revealing a gentle choice.
(c) A delight in any display of conscious thought
11. The poem says the mite is “nothing I knew evil He’s pleased to see intelligence in any form, no
of,” so the narrator: matter how tiny. The poem values mindful agency
(a) Politely inquires about its origins in creatures, revealing the writer’s gratitude upon
(b) Leaves it on the page, undisturbed encountering even subtle evidence of thought.
(c) Decides to burn the page
(d) Drowns it in the ink blot 15. Why did the mite “falter,” according to the poem?
(a) It wanted to greet the narrator
Ans
(b) It was too cold to move well
(b) Leaves it on the page, undisturbed (c) It was uncertain whether to run or stay
He finds no reason to harm it since it’s not (d) It was waiting for more mites to appear
threatening. This acceptance underlines how he Ans
judges it purely based on observed intelligence
and innocence, not prejudice or fear. (c) It was uncertain whether to run or stay
As it faced the narrator’s pen, the mite’s fear
12. The narrator feels “glad” to discover any sign of and strategy combined, causing it to pause in
mind on his paper because: indecision-a clear sign of hesitancy as it weighed
(a) He recognizes and values intelligence, however possible danger in either choice.
small
(b) He wants new material for a scientific study 16. The line “It seemed too tiny to have room for
(c) He plans to keep mites as interesting pets feet” implies the speaker:
(d) He is lonely and needs companionship (a) Can hardly believe it has full limbs
(b) Thinks it’s missing a leg
Ans
(c) Expects it to vanish at any moment
(a) He recognizes and values intelligence, however (d) Believes it’s gliding on a cushion of air
small
Ans
Frost’s speaker cherishes any hint of “mind,”
even in a creature too tiny for normal notice. (a) Can hardly believe it has full limbs
This delight in finding awareness underscores the Observing such a minuscule creature scurry
poem’s theme of respecting unexpected life forms. around suggests it must have a functional set
of legs. Its agility is remarkable for something
13. Which word best describes the mite’s manner of apparently too small to contain typical features.
approaching the wet ink?
(a) Boldly confident 17. “It ran with terror and with cunning crept” shows
(b) Suspicious and hesitant the mite’s:
(c) Carelessly inattentive (a) Absolute confusion
(d) Calmly cheerful (b) Combination of fear and cleverness
(c) Tendency to chase other insects
Ans
(d) Desire to walk in circles
(b) Suspicious and hesitant
Ans
The poem highlights it pausing and possibly
sniffing or tasting, then turning away in disgust. (b) Combination of fear and cleverness
This stop-and-go behavior shows wariness, not The poem depicts both panic and strategy in the
carefree acceptance of the ink’s unknown nature. mite’s moves-speedy sprints and sly creeping-

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

Here, the door “groans” and “protests,” giving 50. Which of the given options contains the same
it human reactions. Similarly, Frost’s mite figure of speech as in this line:
“loathing” something treats an insect as if it can “I had idly poised my pen in air to stop it with a
experience human disdain-classic personification. period of ink.”
(a) “Her laughter sparkled like the morning dew.”
47. Identify the line using figure of speech, just as in (b) “They raced toward the finish line as quickly
this line: as cheetahs.”
“It ran with terror and with cunning crept.” (c) “His silence was a dagger aimed at my heart.”
(a) “The day ended in sweet sorrow.” (d) “Flames curled and flickered, dancing with
(b) “He typed quickly, carefully checking each the shadows.”
letter.”
(c) “One leaf fell, landing silently on the path.” Ans
(d) “She arranged the flowers in a bright vase.” (c) “His silence was a dagger aimed at my heart.”
Ans A metaphor directly compares two unlike things
(a) “The day ended in sweet sorrow.” without “like” or “as.” Calling silence a “dagger”
is parallel to calling ink a lethal “period,” both
“Sweet sorrow” places conflicting feelings side implying danger or harm figuratively.
by side, echoing how the mite moves with both
fear (“terror”) and strategy (“cunning”). This 51. Select the option that places these details in the
contradiction is the hallmark of oxymoron. poem’s correct order:
1. The speaker notices a tiny spot on white
48. Which option contains figure of speech parallel paper.
to this line: 2. He raises his pen, ready to crush it with ink.
“It seemed too tiny to have room for feet.” 3. He suddenly realizes it’s a living mite, not
(a) “He parted the crowd politely.” dust.
(b) “She frowned as the clock chimed noon.” 4. He thinks it moved on its own, with real
(c) “My hunger could devour a feast for ten.” purpose.
(d) “Her tears could fill every ocean on earth.” (a) 2, 1, 3, 4
Ans (b) 1, 2, 4, 3
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4
(d) “Her tears could fill every ocean on earth.”
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2
Exaggerating tears large enough to fill “every
Ans
ocean” parallels describing something as too
small to hold normal legs. Both lines stretch truth (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
to highlight the intensity of an observation. First, he spots a speck on his paper (1). Next, he
poises his pen to drop ink (2). Then he discovers
49. Which of the given options contains the same
it’s alive (3), recognizing purposeful movement
figure of speech as in this line:
(4).
“It paused as with suspicion of my pen.”
(a) “The evening sky turned a warm orange hue.” 52. Decide which logical sequence fits these lines from
(b) “The old floorboards groaned under heavy the poem:
footsteps.” 1. The mite approaches the wet ink in the
(c) “A rabbit hopped away silently through the manuscript.
bushes.” 2. It pauses, possibly tasting or smelling the ink.
(d) “Raindrops fell continuously throughout the 3. It shows disgust and runs away.
night.” 4. The speaker realizes the insect truly has
Ans intelligence.
(b) “The old floorboards groaned under heavy (a) 1, 4, 2, 3
footsteps.” (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(c) 2, 1, 4, 3
Personification assigns human traits or feelings to
(d) 4, 1, 3, 2
nonhuman objects. Just as the mite “suspects” the
pen, this line describes floorboards as “groaning,” Ans
suggesting a human-like reaction to weight. (b) 1, 2, 3, 4

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 361

(b) Invisible cosmic forces 29. The mite demonstrates suspicion toward the pen,
(c) Seemingly insignificant living things pausing briefly, then rushing “wildly on again,”
(d) Discarded scraps of paper showing a careful yet ______ approach.
(a) random
Ans
(b) blind
(c) Seemingly insignificant living things (c) nervous
The final message is that no life is too small to (d) quiet
surprise us with its intelligence. The narrator is Ans
profoundly grateful to witness conscious effort in
a creature so easy to overlook. (c) nervous
Its behavior mixes hesitation and darting-a
26. The narrator initially misjudges the tiny spot on reflection of fear. The insect is extremely wary
the paper as a ______ from his own breath. of the narrator’s pen, yet tries to cross quickly,
(a) drifting flake revealing a nervous, uncertain method of moving
(b) mild breeze forward.
(c) blown speck
(d) faint scent 30. The insect halts near fresh ink, possibly smelling
or tasting it, then reacts with ______.
Ans
(a) loathing
(c) blown speck (b) hunger
He first assumes it’s just dust he accidentally (c) calm
exhaled onto the page. Only after seeing it move (d) gratitude
purposefully does he realize it’s actually a living Ans
mite, not mere debris.
(a) loathing
27. With the pen ready, the speaker almost ended the When it encounters the newly written ink,
mite’s journey by dropping a ______ of ink. the mite recoils. The poem suggests disgust or
(a) large blot aversion, indicating that what it senses repels it,
(b) strong splotch fueling another escape attempt.
(c) medium wave
(d) deadly period 31. Realizing the mite must have feet, the narrator
is impressed that it was able to ______ so
Ans
effectively, avoiding death.
(d) deadly period (a) shuffle
He calls it a “period,” but in context, it would (b) scurry
have lethal consequences for the tiny insect. This (c) hop
near-fatal punctuation underscores how easily the (d) vanish
mite’s life might have ended. Ans
28. Observing the mite’s behavior, the speaker (b) scurry
concludes it’s not simple dust but a creature with Its swift movement across the page reveals
its own ______. agility. Frost’s speaker marvels that this nearly
(a) cunning trick invisible creature can still run, creep, and dodge,
(b) living will emphasizing purposeful, quick motions to survive.
(c) fragile wings
(d) hidden friend 32. The poem describes how the mite ______
under desperation, as if surrendering to fate.
Ans
(a) soared
(b) living will (b) cowered
He realizes the speck moves intentionally and tries (c) blinked
avoiding danger. Thus, it must be alive, exercising (d) hammered
some personal resolve or intelligence to flee what Ans
it senses as a threat.
(b) cowered

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

3. Once the narrator recognized the speck was alive, actions as evidence of purposeful thought-a sign
he realized it had: that even a mite can have “mind.”
(a) Its own inclinations or will
(b) Magical powers to multiply 7. The poem points out the mite seemed “too tiny
(c) Friendship with other insects to have room for feet,” but must have had them
(d) No method of movement at all because it:
(a) Expressed strong desire to survive
Ans (b) Created visible footprints on the page
(a) Its own inclinations or will (c) Pushed the pen away with its limbs
(d) Danced in place in the wet ink
He sees the mite pause suspiciously, then dart off
again. This behavior indicates the speck isn’t mere Ans
dust-it’s a creature with intentions, responding (a) Expressed strong desire to survive
and acting on its own.
Despite its minuscule size, it clearly moves and
4. Why did the mite pause near the still-wet maneuvers, reflecting a determined will to evade
manuscript ink? danger. The narrator imagines its feet, though
(a) It might have sniffed or tasted the fresh ink invisible, performing these quick survival steps.
(b) It wanted to hide beneath a dark spot
(c) It tried to sharpen its tiny claws 8. Which phrase best captures the mite’s movement
(d) It hoped to camouflage against the text across the paper?
(a) Leisurely wandering
Ans (b) “Ran with terror and with cunning crept”
(a) It might have sniffed or tasted the fresh ink (c) Floating in the air at random
(d) Doing a rhythmic dance
The poem describes how the mite “either drank
or smelt” the fresh ink, but reacts with clear Ans
dislike-implying a curiosity or confusion, then a (b)“Ran with terror and with cunning crept”
hasty escape.
Frost’s speaker notes its frantic dashes and
5. The mite’s reaction to the ink suggested a sense stealthy creeping, revealing both panic and
of: strategy-demonstrating that it’s actively trying to
(a) Loathing avoid harm from the potential threat of the pen.
(b) Excitement
(c) Joy 9. The speaker sees the mite eventually cower in the
(d) Hunger middle of the sheet. This gesture implies it:
Ans (a) Summoned reinforcements from other mites
(b) Resigned itself to whatever fate the narrator
(a) Loathing chose
When it encounters the wet ink, the little speck (c) Decided to hide under a piece of dust
“turned to fly” soon after, showing disgust or (d) Wanted to devour the remaining ink
aversion, which supports the narrator’s impression Ans
of a living mind expressing dislike.
(b) Resigned itself to whatever fate the narrator
6. After observing the mite’s movements, the chose
narrator concluded he was dealing with: After frantic evasion, the tiny creature apparently
(a) A harmless piece of fluff gives up and stops. Frost’s words suggest it’s
(b) An actual intelligence, however tiny surrendering to the writer’s power, uncertain but
(c) A dried crumb from breakfast desperate, awaiting the outcome.
(d) A reflection of light
10. The narrator claims he lacks the “collectivistic
Ans
regimenting love” sweeping the modern world.
(b) An actual intelligence, however tiny Yet he:
Seeing the insect hesitate, dash away, and react (a) Feels no pity for creatures
with caution, Frost’s speaker recognizes these (b) Shows mercy to this microscopic insect

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 363

40. By calling the mite “nothing I knew evil of,” the Ans
speaker justifies leaving it alone, concluding it (a) accept whatever fate the writer chose
poses no ______.
When the mite’s attempts to escape fail, it halts
(a) puzzle
and cowers. Frost implies the speck surrenders to
(b) joy
the narrator’s authority, seemingly resigned that
(c) harm
its life depends on his decision.
(d) money
Ans 44. The speaker admits he lacks “collectivistic love”
for all creatures, yet he spares the tiny mite
(c) harm because it posed ______.
The narrator sees no malicious or dangerous trait (a) serious moral dilemmas to him
in this insect. Because it’s innocent, he feels no (b) no harm and had shown no evil
urge to kill it, allowing it to exist peacefully on (c) enough regal bearing to be admired
the paper. (d) helpful knowledge about science experiments

41. While the speaker held his pen in midair, he Ans

noticed the moving dot was truly alive, realizing (b) no harm and had shown no evil
it had ______.
He clarifies not having grand protective impulses
(a) no perceptible sense of direction
toward every creature. Nonetheless, he finds no
(b) enough will to dodge danger
wrongdoing in the mite, so sees no reason to kill
(c) incredible wings hidden from sight
it-merely letting it remain unscathed.
(d) an urge to communicate by ink
Ans 45. Ultimately, the poet notes he values any small hint
of “mind,” feeling relieved to see a living spark on
(b) enough will to dodge danger his page, even though it was only ______.
Observing how the speck paused, ran, and avoided (a) a microscopic speck displaying awareness
the ink, Frost’s narrator concludes this tiny (b) an irrelevant crumb left at breakfast
creature intentionally acts to survive, indicating it (c) a crumb of pencil lead
possesses a meaningful sense of self-preservation. (d) silent dust speck blown by wind

42. The narrator almost dropped a lethal ink mark on Ans

the dot, but something stayed his hand because (a) a microscopic speck displaying awareness
the speck showed ______.
Frost’s speaker takes delight in discovering
(a) no special reaction at all
intelligence in the smallest forms. Witnessing
(b) clear intelligence in its cautious moves
purposeful action in a near-invisible mite affirms
(c) strong illusions of color changing
the presence of genuine “mind,” inspiring his
(d) immediate willingness to fight back
respect and caution.
Ans
46. Which of the given options contains the same
(b) clear intelligence in its cautious moves figure of speech as in this line from A Considerable
Noticing the speck’s repeated hesitation and Speck:
strategic scurrying, the speaker recognizes “With loathing, for again it turned to fly.”
thoughtful behavior. This realization dissuades (a) “The silent sea rose and fell, indifferent to
him from crushing it with the intended “period” all.”
of ink. (b) “The old door groaned in protest at being
opened.”
43. After scurrying away from the wet ink, the mite (c) “Their laughter echoed merrily through the
faltered in the middle of the sheet, apparently alley.”
preparing to ______. (d) “Tiny leaves lay still, drenched in morning
(a) accept whatever fate the writer chose dew.”
(b) attract others by vibrating signals Ans
(c) create a new home in ink spots
(d) store leftover ink for nourishment (b) “The old door groaned in protest at being
opened.”

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

After frantic evasion, it hunches down, apparently (c) calmness

giving in to whatever the narrator might choose. (d) dryness
This posture displays fear and submission, a final
Ans
acceptance of possible doom.
(a) intelligence
33. The narrator does not claim to be overly
This final thought expresses delight in discovering
protective of all life forms, but this “microscopic
purposeful life anywhere, especially on a “paper
item” caused him to show ______.
sheet so white.” Intelligence, however small, pleases
(a) mercy
him more than trivial marks or meaningless dust.
(b) frustration
(c) joking 37. The speaker acknowledges the mite’s first
(d) scorn approach as a straightforward sign of ______
Ans beyond mere reflex.
(a) desire
(a) mercy (b) awareness
While disclaiming a grand “tenderer-than-thou” (c) magic
ideology, he chooses compassion because the mite (d) panic
does no harm. This merciful stance underscores
Ans
his personal sense of fairness and empathy for
minor living things. (b) awareness
It stops, moves off, stops again, suggesting actual
34. In effect, the narrator lets the mite remain “till I
thought or caution, not random movement. That
hope it ______.”
“awareness” proves to the narrator that the speck
(a) joined me
is indeed alive and mentally reacting.
(b) slept
(c) swelled 38. The poem shows that the mite not only runs
(d) cried quickly but also carefully ______ to avoid
Ans immediate danger.
(a) barks
(b) slept (b) creeps
Instead of killing or removing it, he lets it be, (c) leaps
hoping it finds rest. This quiet acceptance reveals (d) dissolves
empathy; he sees no reason to destroy something
Ans
that’s neither evil nor threatening.
(b) creeps
35. The poem concludes with the line “I have a mind
Aside from dashing, it sometimes edges forward
myself and recognize ______ when I meet with
stealthily. Frost uses words like “with cunning
it.”
crept,” indicating a deliberate, strategic approach
(a) mind
to survival, a hallmark of mindful behavior.
(b) luck
(c) dust 39. In a moment of near defeat, the mite stands in
(d) courage the sheet’s center to ______, no longer fleeing.
Ans (a) accept its fate
(b) ask for help
(a) mind (c) plan a better route
The speaker affirms he can identify intelligence (d) find a new vantage
wherever it’s found-no matter how tiny. It’s a
Ans
celebration of consciousness, even within the
smallest creatures crossing his page. (a) accept its fate
Having run and hidden, it stops, apparently
36. He is relieved to find on any piece of writing, even
yielding to whatever the narrator might do next.
the slightest show of ______.
This expression of surrender underscores its
(a) intelligence
desperation in the face of the pen’s threat.
(b) color

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 365

The mite heads for the fresh ink first (1), then 4. He lets it remain on the paper, hoping it
stops to sense it (2), reacts with “loathing” and sleeps.
flees (3). Finally, the narrator concludes it’s (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
showing cleverness or “mind” (4). (b) 3, 1, 2, 4
(c) 4, 1, 3, 2
53. Which arrangement best aligns with the poem’s (d) 2, 4, 1, 3
midpoint ideas?
1. The speaker notes the mite is too small to Ans
have normal legs. (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
2. It nevertheless scurries quickly and carefully,
He first admits he’s not super-sentimental
revealing survival instincts.
(1), then notes that this particular mite seems
3. It hesitates, seeming uncertain about where
harmless (3). Despite that, he ends up saving it
to go.
(2), leaving it in peace on the page (4).
4. At last, it cowers in the middle of the page.
(a) 4, 2, 3, 1 56. Think about how the poem transitions to the
(b) 1, 3, 2, 4 final idea of recognizing “mind.” Arrange the
(c) 1, 2, 4, 3 statements below:
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 1. The narrator acknowledges his own mind is
Ans able to detect intelligence.
2. He notes how glad he is when he sees a
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 “display of mind.”
Frost first remarks it’s too minuscule for feet (1). 3. He first addresses that the mite displays
Yet it runs effectively (2), then falters (3), and purposeful thought.
ultimately crouches on the page (4), uncertain 4. The speaker concludes he’s witnessing genuine
and resigned to its fate. awareness in this tiny speck.
(a) 3, 1, 4, 2
54. Identify the correct sequence of events here: (b) 1, 4, 2, 3
1. The mite “ran with terror and with cunning (c) 3, 4, 1, 2
crept.” (d) 1, 2, 3, 4
2. The speaker observes it falter and “see it Ans
hesitate.”
3 It surrenders in the paper’s center. (c) 3, 4, 1, 2
4. The poem highlights that this indicates a mix He notices the mite’s intelligence (3), confirms
of fear and strategy. it’s real awareness (4), states that having a mind
(a) 2, 4, 1, 3 helps him identify another mind (1), and ends
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3 celebrating any sign of intelligence (2).
(c) 4, 3, 2, 1
(d) 1, 4, 2, 3 57. Decide how these statements follow the poem’s
logic:
Ans 1. The speaker contemplates dropping a lethal
(b) 1, 2, 4, 3 ink period on the speck.
First, it dashes and creeps (1). Next, the speaker 2. He halts upon realizing it has self-directed
notices its hesitation (2). This reveals both terror inclinations.
and cunning (4). Ultimately, it sits in the page’s 3. He wonders if it’s just dust or truly alive.
middle, giving up (3). 4. He initially believed the speck was something
blown by his breath.
55. Which option lists these lines from the poem in (a) 4, 1, 3, 2
the right order? (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
1. The narrator claims he’s not extra-lenient (c) 4, 3, 2, 1
about all creatures. (d) 1, 4, 3, 2
2. He still shows compassion to this “microscopic Ans
item.”
3 He sees no evil in the mite. (a) 4, 1, 3, 2

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

Ans
(i) He indicates that having a mind means
possessing a keen awareness and capacity
for understanding. By asserting this, the
speaker lays the foundation for noticing a
similar level of intelligence in other writings
or people. Their statement underscores a self-
assured perspective that is able to identify
and appreciate intellect.
(ii) The phrase “in any guise” emphasizes that
creativity or intelligence can emerge in many
forms, some subtle, some bold. The speaker
underscores inclusivity-every variety of mental
effort matters, suggesting the poet’s openness
to discovery wherever genuine thought may
be lurking.
(iii) They find real joy whenever they come across
even a faint glimmer of intellect. The poem
conveys an eagerness to celebrate originality
or cleverness in written text, indicating that
genuine insight is precious and not taken for
granted.
(iv) Pointing to “any sheet” shows the speaker’s
broad curiosity; they’re prepared to scan
everything from a formal essay to a random
note, hoping to spot sincerity of thought.
This implies a proactive search for substance,
reflecting the poet’s deep love of authenticity.
(v) They relish finding even the smallest traces
of genuine intellect because it validates the
human capacity for thoughtful engagement.
One reason they hold it so dearly is likely
the rarity of encountering deep reflection
in a world that often favors superficial
communication-each subtle spark feels truly
rewarding.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 367

Because the insect “drank or smelt” the ink (1), Statement (2) : The insect’s ability to run around
it rushes away “with loathing” upon sensing it’s in fear proves it must have functional legs.
unpleasant or risky. This behavior (2) proves (a) (1) and (2) are unrelated
awareness, triggered by that bad experience. (b) (1) is true and (2) is false
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
63. As Frost’s poem continues, the narrator realizes (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
the speck isn’t just moving randomly-he sees it
running and creeping with caution. Reflect on Ans
how these statements interconnect: (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
Statement (1) : “It ran with terror and with
The narrator marvels that something so small
cunning crept” points to both fear and clever
can still scurry effectively (1). Because it dashes
strategy.
and evades, it clearly has legs (2). Together, these
Statement (2) : The speaker believes the creature’s
ideas confirm the mite’s remarkable agility.
cunning is merely automatic, showing no real
intelligence. 66. Narrator admits he lacks a sentimental “tenderer-
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false than-thou” attitude but still spares the mite.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Examine these statements to see how they
(c) (1) is the cause for (2) connect:
(d) (1) and (2) are independent Statement (1) : He openly states he is not overly
Ans kind to every living thing.
Statement (2) : Regardless, he shows mercy by
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false letting the tiny creature remain untouched.
Yes, it moves in a mix of terror and cunning (1). (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
But the poem explicitly calls it “plainly with an (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
intelligence.” Therefore, it’s not just automatic (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
reflex. So (2) is incorrect. (d) (1) and (2) illustrate irony
Ans
64. In ‘A Considerable Speck’, the mite falters,
hesitates, and finally cowers in the middle of (d) (1) and (2) illustrate irony
the page. Observe the statements below and He claims he doesn’t share extreme compassion
determine their relationship: for all creatures, yet he demonstrates it by saving
Statement (1) : It hesitates, showing confusion this insect. That contrast between his claim and
about whether to flee or stop. action creates an ironic situation in the poem.
Statement (2) : The mite chooses to surrender,
waiting for whatever fate the speaker decides. 67. Speaker finds the mite harmless and hopes it may
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false even rest peacefully on the page. Think about
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false these statements:
(c) (1) leads to (2) Statement (1) : Because the mite shows no signs
(d) (1) and (2) do not match of malice, the speaker leaves it alone.
Statement (2) : He decides to crush it anyway,
Ans believing it worthless.
(c) (1) leads to (2) (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
Its hesitation (1) reveals an inability to find a (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
better escape route, leading it to cower down and (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
passively accept the narrator’s choice (2). The (d) (1) and (2) are independent of each other
final submission follows from that uncertainty. Ans

65. In the poem ‘A Considerable Speck’, the speaker (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
becomes fascinated by how something so minuscule The poem specifically says he does not kill the
could still move quickly and avoid danger. Reflect mite, as it did “no evil.” Hence (1) matches the
on these two statements in that context: text, while (2) contradicts his kind decision to
Statement (1) : He claims it looks too tiny to have leave it be.
space for feet, yet it must.

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

First, the narrator sees a “speck” and suspects 3. He leaves it on the paper, hoping it sleeps.
dust (4), considers inking it dead (1), but 4. He values “mind,” feeling glad to see signs of
begins to suspect it’s alive (3), then concludes it intelligence.
demonstrates actual choice (2). (a) 1, 4, 3, 2
(b) 4, 2, 3, 1
58. Find the correct order for these lines: (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
1. The mite might have tasted or smelled the (d) 2, 1, 4, 3
wet ink with disgust.
2. It was moving across the writing, so the Ans
speaker paused his pen. (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
3. It turned away “with loathing,” trying to
He first clarifies he’s not overly sentimental (1),
escape.
finds no evil in the mite (2), lets it be (3), and
4. The speaker realized a living mind was behind
finally rejoices in discovering a “display of mind”
those actions.
on his page (4).
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4 61. In Robert Frost’s poem ‘A Considerable Speck’,
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 the speaker initially sees a speck on white paper
(d) 4, 3, 1, 2 and almost crushes it with ink. Then he notices
Ans it’s alive and acts with a tiny form of intelligence.
Study the statements below and choose the
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4 correct relationship:
The bug’s movement triggers the speaker to Statement (1) : The speaker first believes the dot
hesitate with his pen (2). It then inspects the wet is just dust.
ink (1), reacts by fleeing (3), and the narrator Statement (2) : He immediately saves it without
concludes it’s a sign of intelligence (4). any hesitation or second thoughts.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
59. Which arrangement fits these short references (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
best? (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
1. The poem describes the mite’s contradictory (d) (1) and (2) are independent
responses: terror plus cunning. Ans
2. Ultimately, it stops, accepting the narrator’s
power over its fate. (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
3. This is after a series of frantic movements He truly misidentifies it as dust at first but does
across the page. not instantly spare it. He hovers his pen, almost
4. The speaker finds no evil in the insect and killing it, before realizing its life. Hence, (2)
spares it. contradicts the poem’s events.
(a) 3, 1, 2, 4
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 62. As you read further in ‘A Considerable Speck’,
(c) 1, 3, 4, 2 the speaker watches the tiny creature move
(d) 3, 4, 1, 2 suspiciously toward fresh ink and dash away.
Think about the lines below and decide the
Ans correct link:
(a) 3, 1, 2, 4 Statement (1) : The insect sniffs or tastes the wet
The mite initially scurries in panic (3), showing ink, then flees in disgust.
both fear and craftiness (1). It finally cowers Statement (2) : Its negative reaction to the ink
in the center (2). Seeing no maliciousness, the shows it understands danger.
speaker chooses not to kill it (4). (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
60. Select the best order of these concluding elements: (c) (1) and (2) are independent
1. The narrator says he isn’t among those who (d) (1) is the cause for (2)
show love to every tiny thing. Ans
2. He notes this speck is “nothing I knew evil
of.” (d) (1) is the cause for (2)

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 369

mere speck crossing the creative work. This show signs of purposeful action, making the
detail reveals how a seemingly insignificant speaker reassess its nature.
thing can interrupt or refocus the speaker’s (iii) By declaring it’s “no dust speck,” the poet
attention, reshaping the moment. underscores its autonomy. Rather than being
(iv) Holding the pen idly “in air” conveys a brief tossed about by breath alone, it possesses
pause or hesitation, as though the poet is its own direction, revealing it’s not inert but
suspended between thoughts. It underscores genuinely alive.
a moment of stillness or distraction, in which (iv) Labeling it “a living mite” with preferences
observation trumps writing, and the speaker indicates the speaker’s willingness to grant
reconsiders the scene. small creatures agency. It shows admiration
(v) They seem to amplify minute details, or at least acknowledgment that even tiny
reflecting a habit of keen observation rather life forms deserve attention and shouldn’t be
than casual idling. casually dismissed.
One reason is that the poem intentionally (v) It implies a larger appreciation for the
focuses on how even the smallest interruption autonomy of lesser-seen beings.
can spark reflection, implying a thoughtful One reason is that the poem underlines the
appreciation for tiny, overlooked events. speaker’s shift from a dismissive approach to
respectful observation, hinting that mindful
2. Read the following lines and answer the questions awareness applies to all life-no matter how
that follow: small.
“To stop it with a period of ink
3. Read the following lines and answer the questions
When something strange about it made me think,
This was no dust speck by my breathing blown, that follow:
But unmistakably a living mite “It paused as with suspicion of my pen,
With inclinations it could call its own.” And then came racing wildly on again
(i) Why does the speaker consider using “a To where my manuscript was not yet dry;
period of ink” to stop the speck? Then paused again and either drank or smelt—
(ii) What realization does the speaker have With loathing, for again it turned to fly.”
about this speck that changes their initial (i) Why does the tiny creature appear to hesitate
perception? upon encountering the speaker’s pen?
(iii) How does describing it as “no dust speck by (ii) What is the significance of it “racing wildly
my breathing blown” challenge the idea of it on again” before reaching the not-yet-dry
being a mere inanimate particle? manuscript?
(iv) In what way does calling it “a living mite (iii) How does its second pause, during which
with inclinations” reveal the poet’s respect it “either drank or smelt,” add to our
for even small forms of life? understanding of its behavior?
(v) The poem emphasizes noticing tiny creatures (iv) In what way does the creature’s eventual
and acknowledging their independence. retreat, described as turning “to fly,” affect
Does this focus on the mite’s “inclinations” the scene’s mood?
suggest a deeper reflection on all living (v) The poem offers a glimpse of curiosity,
beings, or is it just curiosity? caution, and even distaste in this small
Give one reason for your answer. being’s actions.
Do you view this as a metaphor for how we
Ans react to unfamiliar elements, or purely a
(i) At first, the speaker contemplates marking it literal observation?
with ink-as if the speck were unimportant and State one reason for your perspective.
easily dispatched. This instinct reflects how Ans
we often react to minuscule interruptions,
aiming to remove them quickly rather than (i) It seems to sense a potential threat or
investigate. unfamiliar object, causing it to momentarily
(ii) They realize the speck behaves in a peculiar halt. This caution suggests the creature’s
manner, prompting a second thought. Its instinct to assess danger before proceeding,
motions aren’t random dust movements but reflecting wariness toward anything that
might disrupt its course.

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

68. At the poem’s conclusion, the narrator speaks Ans

of his own mind and his delight in finding any (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
display of mind in another being. Consider these
The poem’s main theme is how even a minuscule
lines carefully:
life form shows thoughtful movement (1). He
Statement (1) : He’s extremely pleased that such
never claims big animals alone exhibit “mind,”
a small insect can show intentional thought.
so (2) contradicts his astonishment at the mite’s
Statement (2) : He regrets discovering the
intelligence.
creature’s intelligence, wishing it were just dust.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) triggers (2) EXTRACT BASED QUESTION
(d) (1) and (2) are independent
Ans
1. Read the following lines and answer the questions
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false that follow:
The poem celebrates the mite’s purposeful “A speck that would have been beneath my sight
movement: “No one can know how glad I am…” On any but a paper sheet so white
So (1) is correct. He doesn’t lament this discovery; Set off across what I had written there.
(2) is opposite to the poem’s actual feeling. And I had idly poised my pen in air”
(i) What does the poem suggest about the
69. The narrator nearly used ink to kill the speck, significance of the tiny “speck” that would
then saw it cower in the center of the sheet. normally go unnoticed?
Think about how these statements apply to that (ii) Why might the poet highlight “a paper sheet
moment: so white” to emphasize the speck’s visibility?
Statement (1) : Witnessing the mite’s strategic, (iii) What does the speck’s journey “across what
fearful moves convinces him it has true awareness. I had written” imply about the speaker’s
Statement (2) : He dismisses it as purely reflexive awareness or perspective?
and mindless, with no sign of real intelligence. (iv) In what sense does having one’s “pen in air”
(a) (1) and (2) have no direct link reveal an idle or momentary pause in the
(b) (1) is true and (2) is false writing process?
(c) (2) is true and (1) is false (v) The poem dwells on a minuscule detail
(d) (1) and (2) are independent crossing the page.
Does this attention to the speck reflect a
Ans
deeper observation of small things or a simple
(b) (1) is true and (2) is false distraction?
He explicitly says “Plainly with an intelligence I Give one reason for your answer.
dealt,” so he firmly believes it’s thinking. That Ans
rejects the idea (2) that it’s mindless. The poem
(i) The lines imply that this tiny mark gains
praises the insect’s purposeful behavior.
unexpected importance against the glaring
contrast of a clean, white page. Ordinarily
70. Reflect on the poem’s central idea that something
beneath notice, it becomes a focal point here,
as small as a mite can reveal “the least display of
drawing the speaker’s eye and prompting
mind.” Evaluate these two final statements:
thought about how easily we overlook small
Statement (1) : The speaker learns a profound
presences in daily life.
lesson that even a tiny speck can act with real
(ii) Emphasizing a “paper sheet so white”
purpose.
accentuates the speck’s prominence. The
Statement (2) : He concludes that only large
immaculate background magnifies that
creatures deserve credit for having intelligence.
trivial mark, suggesting the poet’s deliberate
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
decision to contrast the stark blankness with
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
the sudden intrusion of something minuscule.
(c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(iii) Its path across the writer’s text hints that
(d) (1) and (2) are independent
the speaker is momentarily captivated by a

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 371

Ans Ans
(i) They show a tension between fear and (i) They dismiss the modern trend of imposing
strategy: it darts away in panic, yet also crawls a grand collective compassion that controls
with calculated care. The contrast of “terror” behavior. Instead, the speaker refuses to adopt
and “cunning” reveals how desperation drives a preachy, moralizing approach, preferring an
its contradictory motions. individual sense of care without showy group
(ii) By pausing and hesitating, it appears truly sentiment.
conscious of danger—no mere reflex. This (ii) By calling it “poor” and “microscopic,” the
moment of indecision highlights its acute speaker frames the mite as vulnerable and
awareness, suggesting a creature forced to easily overlooked. This language reveals a
weigh its limited options for survival. personal sympathy, despite insisting they
(iii) Dropping into a low, submissive posture in don’t practice grand, regimented love.
the open sheet reflects utter hopelessness. It’s (iii) They spare it out of simple respect for life
left exposed, conceding any control to the rather than succumbing to lofty ideals of
speaker who wields far greater power over its tender-heartedness. Their choice demonstrates
destiny. a quiet principle: if the creature poses no
(iv) That phrase underlines the speaker’s harm, there’s no need to kill it.
near-absolute authority. The mite’s life is (iv) It shows the speaker exercising restraint
quite literally in their hands, and the lines and tolerance, leaving the harmless being in
emphasize moral or empathetic implications: peace. Rather than stamping it out, they let it
will the poet spare or destroy it? remain undisturbed, signifying a gentle policy
(v) Its posture could be interpreted either as of non-harm based on individual judgment.
begging for leniency or conceding defeat (v) They appear to show a modest, personal
under impossible odds. kind of mercy, free from any overwhelming
One reason is the portrayal of “desperation,” emotional display.
which implies a final, sorrowful plea-yet also One reason is that their care is selective and
a fatalistic acceptance of whatever verdict the subdued, suggesting thoughtful empathy
speaker delivers. unbound by grand societal pressure.

6. Read the following lines and answer the questions

that follow:
“I have none of the tenderer-than-thou
7. Read the following lines and answer the questions
Collectivistic regimenting love
that follow:
With which the modern world is being swept.
“I have a mind myself and recognize
But this poor microscopic item now!
Mind when I meet with it in any guise
Since it was nothing I knew evil of
No one can know how glad I am to find
I let it lie there till I hope it slept.”
On any sheet the least display of mind.”
(i) What does the speaker reject about “tenderer-
(i) In what sense does the speaker claim to “have
than-thou collectivistic regimenting love”?
a mind”?
(ii) Why does the speaker call the mite a “poor
(ii) Why might the speaker stress recognizing
microscopic item”?
“Mind” in “any guise”?
(iii) In what way does sparing the mite reflect the
(iii) What do these lines reveal about the speaker’s
speaker’s personal moral stance?
personal delight in discovering thoughtfulness
(iv) How does “I let it lie there till I hope it slept”
or originality in written work?
reveal the speaker’s attitude toward harming
(iv) How does focusing on “any sheet” highlight
small creatures?
the speaker’s eagerness for signs of genuine
(v) The speaker avoids sweeping sentimentalism
insight wherever it may appear?
yet shows compassion for the mite.
(v) The poem emphasizes the joy of encountering
Do you view this as balanced empathy or
“the least display of mind.”
fleeting pity? Give one reason supporting
How do you interpret this enthusiasm, and
your position.
what reason might the speaker have for
treasuring even small intellectual sparks?

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Ch 4 : A Considerable Speck

(ii) That burst of motion underscores its erratic Ans

decision-making-one moment fearful, the next (i) The speaker realizes that it behaves with
rushing forward. The unsteady nature of its clear purpose, indicating actual thought
progress highlights a blend of curiosity and rather than mere reflex. Observing its
urgency, as though it cannot resist exploring careful, deliberate motions suggests the mite
the newly written surface. possesses some degree of cunning or survival-
(iii) When it pauses again “as if to drink or smell,” driven cleverness.
it reveals a creature testing the surroundings. (ii) By noting it seems “too tiny” for feet, the
This detail personifies the mite, showing it poet initially questions how such a minuscule
reacts to taste or scent, further emphasizing being can move so purposefully. This contrast
it’s not just mindlessly scampering but accentuates its surprising capability: despite
deliberately investigating. its smallness, it maneuvers with distinct
(iv) By fleeing, it injects a touch of comic relief agency.
or mild exasperation, as if the tiny wanderer (iii) Stating it “must have had a set of them
finds the ink or environment repulsive. That complete” implies the creature’s coordinated
swift retreat leaves the scene tinged with movement is no fluke; each tiny limb plays a
quiet amusement over the mite’s dramatic role in fleeing danger. This detail emphasizes
exit. its resolute determination to avoid harm.
(v) Its dance of suspicion and curiosity can mirror (iv) The speaker transitions from seeing it as an
human responses to unfamiliar situations. insignificant speck to recognizing a fierce will,
One reason is that the poet draws parallels hinting at a deeper empathy. Marveling at its
between this small life form’s cautious complexity and drive, the poet treats it not
exploration and how we too probe the as a nuisance but as a life form with genuine
unknown, sometimes retreating when it purpose.
doesn’t suit us. (v) It suggests that all beings, however small,
exert effort to survive.
One reason is that acknowledging even a
mite’s fight for life can foster respect for the
universal impulse to keep living, regardless of
4. Read the following lines and answer the questions
size or seeming importance.
that follow:
“Plainly with an intelligence I dealt. 5. Read the following lines and answer the questions
It seemed too tiny to have room for feet, that follow:
Yet must have had a set of them complete “It ran with terror and with cunning crept.
To express how much it didn’t want to die.” It faltered: I could see it hesitate;
(i) In what way does the speaker acknowledge a Then in the middle of the open sheet
form of “intelligence” in the tiny creature? Cower down in desperation to accept
(ii) Why does the poet remark that it appeared Whatever I accorded it of fate.”
“too tiny to have room for feet,” and how (i) How do these lines depict the creature’s
does this contrast with what the creature conflicting emotions as it tries to escape?
demonstrates? (ii) In what way does its “faltering” and visible
(iii) How does the idea that it “must have had a set “hesitation” deepen our understanding of its
of them complete” reinforce its determination predicament?
to survive? (iii) Discuss the significance of it “cowering down
(iv) Discuss how these lines capture the speaker’s in desperation” on the open sheet.
evolving perspective on the creature’s (iv) What does the phrase “whatever I accorded
complexity and will to live. it of fate” imply about the speaker’s power or
(v) The poem underscores that even the smallest responsibility?
life form actively resists death. (v) These lines portray a tiny being torn between
Do you view this stance as highlighting cunning and surrender.
universal survival instincts or a gentle moral Do you interpret its final cowering as a plea
about respecting life? for mercy or a resigned acceptance of doom?
Provide one reason for your interpretation. Give one reason supporting your perspective.

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 373

CHAPTER
5
THE POWER OF MUSIC

INTRODUCTIO the poem emphasizes how one individual’s loud,

tuneless singing can plunge everything around
him into complete disarray.
“The Power of Music,” originally “Ganer Gunto,”
2. Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s Booming Voice : At the
is a hilarious poem from Sukumar Ray’s Abol
center of this havoc is Bhisma Lochan Sharma,
Tabol, first published in 1923. It tells the story of
whose deafening voice travels from Delhi to
Bhisma Lochan Sharma, a dreadful singer whose
Burma. His relentless singing reflects a satirical
booming voice can be heard as far as Delhi and
poke at performers who fail to understand just
Burma. His tuneless singing disturbs everyone
how much trouble their “music” can cause for
around him, from people to animals and even
unwilling audiences.
plants. Despite desperate pleas for him to stop,
3. Nature and People in Distress : As Bhisma’s
Bhisma stubbornly continues, causing chaos
powerful voice resonates across the land, both
wherever he goes. In the end, a resourceful goat
humans and animals suffer. People panic, carts
charges at him, finally putting an end to his noisy
overturn, and fish dive to escape the noise. Even
performance. Through humor, the poem also
mighty trees collapse, demonstrating the far-
subtly hints at resisting oppressive forces.
reaching impact of Bhisma’s unstoppable racket.
4. A Rising Sense of Comic Turmoil : Sukumar Ray
heightens the humor by showcasing Bhisma’s
ABOUT THE POE complete disregard for the mayhem. Despite
desperate pleas, he continues undeterred. Each
Sukumar Ray (1887–1923) was a pioneering stanza adds to the absurdity, transforming what
Bengali poet, story writer, and playwright from should be a song into a full-blown spectacle of
British India. He is often called the father of misery for everyone within earshot.
Bengali nonsense verse. Born in Kolkata into a 5. The Goat’s Heroic Intervention and Relief :
family of writers and artists, he began writing Salvation arrives in the form of a determined billy
humorous poems, stories, and plays at a young goat. Fed up with the raucous serenade, it charges
age, drawing inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s at Bhisma, abruptly ending his dreadful aria. This
Alice in Wonderland. Some of his most famous sudden action restores peace, underscoring how
works include Abol Tabol, Pagla Dashu, and even the most unbearable noise can be silenced by
HaJaBaRaLa, known for their playful language the right intervention.
and imaginative wordplay. Although he passed
away at the young age of 36, Sukumar Ray’s
influence on Bengali literature remains immense. WORD MEANINGS & EXPLANATIO
His wit and linguistic flair continue to entertain
readers today.
Extract 1
When summer comes, we hear the hums
Bhisma Lochan Sharma.
SUMMAR You catch his strain on hill and plain from Delhi
down to Burma.
1. A Lighthearted Take on Terrible Singing : He sings as though he’s staked his life, he sings
Sukumar Ray’s “The Power of Music” humorously as though he’s hell-bent;
explores the chaos unleashed by painfully off-key The people, dazed, retire amazed although they
performances. Rather than celebrating melody, know it’s well-meant.

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Ch 5 : The Power of Music

Word Meaning Extract 3

1. Hums : sings The wretched brutes resent the blare the hour
2. Strain : song/music they hear it sounded,
3. Staked : put on bet They whine and stare with feet in air or wonder
4. Hell-bent : determined, stubborn quite confounded.
5. Dazed : unable to think clearly The fishes dived below the lake in frantic search
6. Retire : leave for silence,
7. Amazed : greatly surprised The very trees collapse and shake – you hear the
Explanation crash a mile hence –
During the summer season, Bhisma Lochan Word Meaning
Sharma’s voice fills the air. His singing resonates 1. Wretched : pitiful
across hills and plains, suggesting its extraordinary 2. Brutes : animals (horses)
loudness. In a humorous twist, the poet claims 3. Resent : protest
one can hear him all the way from Delhi to 4. Blare : loud, unpleasant noise
Burma. Bhisma belts out tunes as if forced by 5. Whine : cry out
circumstances or as if he has placed a wager on 6. Confounded : highly upset
his singing-though his voice is far from sweet. 7. Dived : plunged down
Listeners become dizzy and disoriented upon 8. Frantic : desperate
hearing him, and many decide to walk away, yet 9. Collapse : fall down
they understand that Bhisma genuinely intends 10. Crash : loud sound (thud)
to entertain them. Explanation
Extract 2 Horses, described as pitiful creatures here,
They’re trampled in the panic rout or languish immediately protest against the deafening racket.
pale and sickly, They rear up in distress, whining and flailing their
And plead ‘My friend, we’re near our end, oh legs in the air. Fishes plunge deep underwater,
stop your singing quickly! ‘ hoping to escape the uproar. Even trees tremble
The bullock-carts are overturned, and horses and topple over upon hearing Bhisma’s harsh
line the roadside; singing, their crashing sound echoing across a
But Bhisma Lochan, unconcerned, goes mile.
booming out his broadside.
Word Meaning Extract 4
1. Trampled : crushed And in the sky the feathered fly turn turtle while
2. Panic rout : stampede they’re winging,
3. Languish : forced to suffer Again we cry, ‘We’re going to die, oh won’t you
4. Sickly : ill stop your singing?
5. Plead : request But Bhisma’s soared beyond our reach, howe’er
6. Near our end : have lost patience we plead and grumble;
7. Overturned : turned upside down The welkin weeps to hear his screech, and mighty
8. Unconcerned : does not bother mansions tumble.
9. ‘booming out his broadside’ : sings in such a Word Meaning
loud voice that it sounds harsh to others 1. Feathered fly : birds
Explanation 2. Turn turtle : go upside down
People at Bhisma’s performance flee in panic, 3. Winging : flying
causing a stampede as they feel overwhelmed 4. Soared : sang so loudly
and unwell. They beg him to stop, but their 5. Grumble : complain in an unpleasant way
pleas are ignored. Even animals are not spared; 6. Welkin : sky
bullock carts flip over, and horses gather along 7. Screech : loud, unpleasant sound
the roadsides, all trying to escape the noise. 8. Mighty : strong
Despite this turmoil, Bhisma remains indifferent 9. Mansions : buildings
and continues his deafening song. 10. Tumble : fall down

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 375

Explanation The poet employs the following figures of speech

Birds flying overhead flip upside down when (literary devices):
Bhisma’s jarring notes reach them. Frightened 1. Personification : Horses, sky and goat have been
onlookers beg him to stop, claiming his singing personified.
might just kill them. Yet Bhisma remains unmoved Horses, for example, behave like humans :
by their protests, carrying on at full volume. His The wretched brutes resent the blare …
voice seems to make the very sky lament, and Then even the ‘sky’ is humanised :
even grand buildings begin to crumble under its The welkin weeps to hear his screech . . .
force. A billy goat is called’ a sagacious fellow’ and the
pronoun ‘he’ is used for it as if it were a human
Extract 5 being
But now there comes a billy goat, a most 2. Alliteration : The repetition of consonant sounds
sagacious fellow, in nearby words is used in many lines, such as :
He downs his horns and charges straight, with When summer comes, we hear the hums (‘m’ and
bellow answ’ring bellow. ‘h’ sounds)
The strains of song are tossed and whirled by And plead, ‘My friend, we’re near our end, oh (‘d’
blast of brutal violence, sound)
And Bhisma Lochan grants the world the golden And in the sky the feathered fly turn turtle (‘f’
gift of silence. and ‘t’ sounds).

Word Meaning
1. Billy goat : male goat
2. Sagacious : wise MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION
3. Downs : put down
4. Charges : hits
5. Bellow : shout in a loud voice 1. According to the poem, who is the one causing
6. Whirled : circled the loud singing throughout the land?
7. Tossed : thrown up in the air (a) A wandering minstrel
(b) A trained opera singer
Explanation
(c) Bhisma Lochan Sharma
As last, a wise billy goat appears and lowers its (d) A forest hermit
horns in a direct assault. The goat’s own loud cry
Ans
seems to match Bhisma’s volume as it forcefully
collides with him. This blow sends Bhisma and (c) Bhisma Lochan Sharma
his ear-splitting music spinning into the air. With He’s the central figure whose booming voice
that swift action, his singing is abruptly silenced, resonates across plains and hills. Everyone
allowing everyone to experience the long-awaited recognizes his name as the source of the deafening,
calm. unstoppable music that unsettles people and
animals alike.

2. How do people react upon hearing Bhisma Lochan

FIGURES OF SPEEC Sharma’s singing?
(a) They applaud his sweet melody
In “The Power of Music,” a range of poetic (b) They flee in panic, feeling ill
techniques work together to achieve a humorous (c) They start dancing joyfully in circles
effect. The poem alternates between abcb and (d) They gather to study his technique
abab rhyme schemes, featuring playful pairs Ans
like Sharma–Burma, hell-bent, well-meant, and
(b) They flee in panic, feeling ill
sickly–quickly. These rhymes add to the poem’s
lighthearted tone. Moreover, the singer’s eccentric His volume and harshness overwhelm listeners,
personality, combined with the personification of prompting them to run away or collapse. Far
animals, birds, and inanimate objects, enhances from enjoying it, they complain of dizziness and
the overall comic structure. despair, desperate for Bhisma to stop his song.

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Ch 5 : The Power of Music

3. According to the poem, what happens to bullock- noise by plunging to the depths. This comedic
carts when Bhisma’s singing begins? exaggeration underscores that Bhisma’s voice
(a) They halt peacefully penetrates everywhere, leaving no refuge near the
(b) They vanish into thin air surface.
(c) They overturn, causing confusion
(d) They break but stand upright 7. When Bhisma’s singing resonates, how do trees
react?
Ans (a) They collapse or shake, making loud crashes
(c) They overturn, causing confusion (b) They absorb the sound and sway calmly
(c) They blossom instantly, inspired by music
The poem describes bullock-carts flipping in
(d) They remain unaffected by the noise
the panic. People and animals scurry in chaos,
highlighting how even vehicles become casualties Ans
of the mass stampede triggered by the deafening (a) They collapse or shake, making loud crashes
sound.
The poem depicts a bizarre scenario: massive
4. Which creature also lines the roadside in dismay trees lose stability and topple from the sheer force
once Bhisma begins his performance? of Bhisma’s voice, symbolizing how nature itself
(a) Horses can’t withstand his thunderous volume.
(b) Elephants
(c) Tigers 8. Which best describes birds’ response in the sky
(d) Rhinos when they hear the singing?
(a) They dance elegantly in mid-air
Ans (b) They flip upside down, disoriented
(a) Horses (c) They gather in perfect unison
(d) They remain perched in trees, quiet
Horses gather, distressed by the noise. They’re
among the animals depicted struggling to endure Ans
Bhisma’s singing, emphasizing the comedic idea (b) They flip upside down, disoriented
that no living being remains unaffected.
This comedic detail shows how even birds flying
5. Why are the “small things” or minor creatures in overhead can’t keep balance. They literally “turn
the poem left trembling? turtle” mid-flight, a cartoonish representation of
(a) They enjoy the singing too much the chaos Bhisma’s singing provokes.
(b) They are overpowered by his loud voice
(c) They plan to learn from him 9. What do frightened onlookers exclaim, begging
(d) They’re left physically unharmed but amused Bhisma to stop his performance?
(a) “We’ll pay you to continue!”
Ans (b) “We’re happily mesmerized!”
(b) They are overpowered by his loud voice (c) “We’re going to die, oh stop!”
(d) “Please sing louder, we love it!”
Even the smallest animals suffer when Bhisma’s
booming music erupts. They recoil, whine, or Ans
even faint, demonstrating how unstoppable and (c) “We’re going to die, oh stop!”
shocking his singing truly is.
Exaggeration used in the poem has people
6. What is the effect of Bhisma Lochan’s singing on crying out in desperation, claiming Bhisma’s
the fish in a nearby lake? deafening voice might kill them. This comedic
(a) They float up happily line underscores their extreme distress at his
(b) They gather at the surface to listen unstoppable singing.
(c) They dive deep, seeking silence
(d) They vanish in magical bubbles 10. The poem states “the welkin weeps” at Bhisma’s
“screech,” meaning:
Ans (a) The forest transforms into a desert
(c) They dive deep, seeking silence (b) The sky laments or reacts sorrowfully
(c) Cities rejoice at the noise
The poem humorously shows even fish fleeing this
(d) Rainbows form overhead in celebration

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ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 377

Ans (c) A dramatic victory speech

(b) The sky laments or reacts sorrowfully (d) A dance show to apologize
“Welkin” is an archaic term for “sky.” Personifying Ans
it as weeping shows how monstrous his singing (a) Silence
becomes, as if the heavens themselves mourn this
overwhelming assault of sound. His unstoppable singing finally ceases, considered
a “golden gift” in the poem. Everyone cherishes
11. By describing “mighty mansions tumble,” the this silence, having begged him to stop throughout
poet suggests: the piece. The goat’s action made that happen.
(a) Bhisma’s voice leads to instant rebuilding
(b) Even large buildings topple from the noise 15. Overall, the poem’s comedic focus is on the
(c) People decorate homes in honor of the music unstoppable power of ______:
(d) The poem’s setting is purely imaginary (a) The unstoppable train of technology
(b) The bravery of small insects
Ans (c) Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s horrific singing
(b) Even large buildings topple from the noise (d) Human compassion toward all creatures
In a comedic exaggeration, houses and mansions Ans
collapse under the sonic force. This hyperbole (c) Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s horrific singing
emphasizes how unstoppable and destructive the
singing can be, even to sturdy structures. Though comedic, the poem centers on the
absurdly loud, unmusical voice. Everything and
12. Eventually, a billy goat appears, described in the everyone tries to escape it until the wise goat ends
poem as “a most sagacious fellow.” Sagacious means: it. This unstoppable singing is the poem’s theme.
(a) Wise and clever
(b) Angry and violent 16. According to the poem, the bullock-carts and
(c) Quiet and lazy horses get overturned or gather on the roadside
(d) Timid and fearful because:
(a) They can’t handle the deafening sound
Ans (b) They want front-row seats to enjoy the show
(a) Wise and clever (c) They vanish mysteriously in a storm
(d) They prefer to wait for travelers
The poet calls the goat’s direct charge a smart
solution. “Sagacious” underlines how cunning or Ans
wise it is, using forceful confrontation to finally (a) They can’t handle the deafening sound
silence Bhisma’s deafening performance.
Bhisma’s singing is so overwhelming that animals
13. How does this “sagacious” billy goat put an end and vehicles end up in disarray. The poem
to Bhisma’s singing? humorously blames it for upending normal order,
(a) It sings louder, drowning him out with animals panicking or collapsing to cope.
(b) It charges straight at him, colliding
(c) It pleads with him gently to stop 17. When describing how “fishes dived below the lake
(d) It bribes him with tasty food in frantic search for silence,” the poet uses what
literary device?
Ans (a) Exaggeration for comedic effect
(b) It charges straight at him, colliding (b) Metaphor for quiet meditation
(c) Gentle simile praising watery calm
In the poem’s comedic climax, the goat bellows
(d) Personification of thoughtful fish
in response and headbutts Bhisma, forcibly
interrupting the endless singing. This physical Ans
blow is the only method that halts his voice. (a) Exaggeration for comedic effect
14. After the goat’s sudden intervention, what It’s unlikely fish would truly sense or dread
“golden gift” does Bhisma provide to the world? singing at such a scale. The poem’s comedic style
(a) Silence deploys hyperbole, dramatizing that even fish
(b) Promises of new music can’t tolerate Bhisma’s ear-shattering voice.

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Ch 5 : The Power of Music

18. Birds turning turtle in flight upon hearing (c) Convicts Bhisma of wrongdoing in a mock
Bhisma’s tune indicates: court
(a) Even the sky’s creatures lose balance (d) Sparks applause and renewed interest in more
(b) The birds want to dance above him singing
(c) They plan a synchronized mid-air routine
Ans
(d) They are enthralled by the music
(a) Tosses and whirls the strains of song away
Ans
Colliding with him physically, the goat’s force
(a) Even the sky’s creatures lose balance knocks out the loud singing, effectively scattering
The poem extends the comedic chaos to birds Bhisma’s voice. This comedic physical act
overhead. Flipping upside down while flying is concludes the poem’s struggle against unstoppable
pure exaggeration, implying no creature-on land, music.
water, or air-escapes the destructive singing.
22. The goat’s wise approach is deemed “most
19. How does the poet depict the stage of final sagacious,” indicating it is:
desperation among listeners before the goat’s (a) Mysterious
arrival? (b) Highly intelligent or shrewd
(a) They peacefully accept it (c) More musical than Bhisma
(b) They cry, “We’re going to die, oh won’t you (d) Bred to combat street singers
stop your singing?”
Ans
(c) They laugh at the novelty
(d) They gather more instruments to play along (b) Highly intelligent or shrewd

Ans “Sagacious” means clever or astute. By ramming

Bhisma, the goat uses direct aggression to
(b) They cry, “We’re going to die, oh won’t you accomplish what pleas and protests could not,
stop your singing?” proving its cunning solution to silence the racket.
Angelou’s comedic hyperbole reveals that
townspeople, travelers, and animals feel physically 23. Why does the poet call Bhisma Lochan’s final
threatened by the sound. They beg for mercy, silence a “golden gift”?
jokingly claiming impending doom from Bhisma’s (a) Because everyone desperately wants quiet
unstoppable voice. (b) It sets him up for an encore
(c) He intends to sing again soon
20. The poem states “mighty mansions tumble,” (d) It shows sudden wealth from singing
meaning:
Ans
(a) Quakes happen occasionally
(b) Construction is faulty in these areas (a) Because everyone desperately wants quiet
(c) Even large buildings collapse under his The poem frames absolute silence as a precious
overwhelming voice relief. “Golden gift” underscores the enormous
(d) People orchestrate demolitions to rebuild relief people and creatures feel when the
Ans overwhelming singing finally ends.
(c) Even large buildings collapse under his
24. What is the poem’s overall comedic message?
overwhelming voice
(a) All must become singers
Exaggeration remains central. The poet (b) The world needs more goats
humorously claims that once unstoppable singing (c) Exaggeration can turn a loud singer into a
reaches a certain pitch, even the strongest chaotic force
buildings tremble and fall, emphasizing the song’s (d) People easily adapt to any noise
comedic destructive power.
Ans
21. Finally, the goat’s direct bellow and charge (c) Exaggeration can turn a loud singer into a
produce a “brutal violence” that: chaotic force
(a) Tosses and whirls the strains of song away
Through cartoonish description of catastrophic
(b) Fuses with Bhisma’s tune to create a new
effects-animals fleeing, buildings collapsing-
melody

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this comedic poem reminds us how humor, plus (c) horses

hyperbole, can lampoon someone with a painfully (d) cycles
loud, unstoppable voice.
Ans
25. Which best states the poem’s resolution? (c) horses
(a) Bhisma remains unstoppable forever
Horses are spooked so severely they gather
(b) Crowds hold a festival in his honor
chaotically at the road’s edge. This comedic
(c) He is invited to sing in a huge amphitheater
detail highlights how no living thing can tolerate
(d) A clever goat’s direct action ultimately grants
Bhisma’s unyielding, earsplitting singing.
everyone the peace they crave
Ans 29. The poet remarks that wretched animals, called
“brutes,” resent the loud ______.
(d) A clever goat’s direct action ultimately grants (a) blare
everyone the peace they crave (b) tune
Nothing could persuade Bhisma to stop except (c) whistle
the goat’s head-on charge. This comedic solution (d) lyric
resolves the chaos, restoring normalcy after
Ans
unstoppable singing wreaked havoc on people and
animals. (a) blare
“Blare” indicates a jarring, harsh noise. Horses
26. The speaker refers to Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s
rear up in alarm at the intense volume, presenting
singing as so powerful it affects creatures “from
the comedic notion that Bhisma’s singing is so
Delhi down to ______.”
loud, it traumatizes everyone present.
(a) Burma
(b) China 30. The fishes dive below the lake in frantic search for
(c) Africa ______, away from Bhisma’s noise.
(d) Greece (a) food
Ans (b) silence
(c) waves
(a) Burma (d) sunlight
In the poem’s comedic exaggeration, you can
Ans
supposedly hear him all the way from Delhi to
Burma, emphasizing how unbelievably far his (b) silence
loud, forceful singing travels across regions. Even aquatic life tries escaping his singing by
submerging into the depths. This comedic scenario
27. People who hear Bhisma’s voice often cry, “My
suggests the unstoppable volume permeates air
friend, we’re near our ______, oh stop your
and water, leaving fish desperate to find quiet.
singing quickly!”
(a) hunger
31. The poem shows that the very trees ______
(b) end
and shake, toppling under the impact of the
(c) pride
singing.
(d) goal
(a) collapse
Ans (b) dance
(b) end (c) rejuvenate
(d) reform
Listeners exaggerate that they might die from the
noise. Their plea to stop singing underscores the Ans
comedic nature of the poem, showing how they (a) collapse
view his voice as mortally threatening.
The poet humorously writes that the trees can’t
28. In total panic, bullock-carts get overturned and withstand the sound vibrations. They actually
______ line the roadside. fall and crash, underscoring the idea that nothing
(a) carts in nature is safe from Bhisma’s brutal voice.
(b) trucks

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Ch 5 : The Power of Music

32. Birds in midair turn ______ while they are The poet anthropomorphizes the sky as shedding
still winging, undone by the powerful notes. tears in reaction. This comedic depiction
(a) silent emphasizes that all creation-from sky to earth-
(b) green laments Bhisma’s painfully loud music.
(c) turtle
(d) swift 36. When a wise billy goat arrives, described as a
“most ______ fellow,” it confronts Bhisma.
Ans (a) furious
(c) turtle (b) tired
(c) bored
“Turn turtle” is a comical phrase meaning they
(d) sagacious
flip upside down. This playful exaggeration shows
that even airborne creatures lose control at Ans
hearing Bhisma’s thunderous singing. (d) sagacious
33. “We’re going to die,” the listeners exclaim, “oh “Sagacious” means discerning or shrewdly
won’t you stop your ______?” intelligent. The goat’s direct method-charging-
(a) travels achieves what begging could not, reflecting its
(b) singing clever strategy to silence Bhisma’s unstoppable
(c) clapping voice once and for all.
(d) dancing
37. The goat “downs his horns and charges straight,”
Ans with a ______ that rivals Bhisma’s volume.
(b) singing (a) hush
(b) bellow
They beg him to halt because the noise feels
(c) whisper
deadly. This comedic hyperbole highlights their
(d) question
intense misery, unable to endure his continuing
“performance” any longer. Ans

34. The poem mentions that “mighty ______ (b) bellow

tumble” when Bhisma’s voice reaches them, The goat’s loud, forceful roar matches the comedic
adding to the chaos. intensity of Bhisma’s singing, symbolizing how
(a) palaces only an equally strong (or stronger) outcry can
(b) mansions finally quell his deafening performance.
(c) temples
(d) markets 38. The poem concludes that “The strains of song are
tossed and whirled by blast of brutal ______.”
Ans (a) wonder
(b) mansions (b) violence
(c) pity
Even enormous buildings, described as “mansions,”
(d) tears
crumble at the noise, a humorous overstatement
of the destructive effect of his singing, reinforcing Ans
the poem’s comedic style. (b)violence
35. The welkin, meaning the sky, “______ to hear In comedic fashion, the billy goat’s physical
his screech,” expressing sorrow at the dreadful force is described as a “blast of brutal violence,”
tune. overthrowing Bhisma’s unstoppable music. This
(a) yawns ends the chaos inflicted by his powerful singing.
(b) weeps
(c) nods 39. Once the goat acts, Bhisma Lochan “grants the
(d) brightens world the golden gift of ______.”
(a) regret
Ans (b) silence
(b) weeps (c) flowers
(d) sky

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Ans 43. Many listeners become ______ upon hearing

(b) silence Bhisma, eventually deciding to walk away.
(a) dizzy and disoriented
Finally, everyone can relax as Bhisma’s endless,
(b) calm and collected
damaging voice ceases. The poem calls this quiet
(c) excited and overjoyed
a “golden gift,” highlighting the enormous relief
(d) thoughtful and reflective
after the comical turmoil.
Ans
40. The essential comedic contrast is that while the
entire world begs Bhisma to stop, only a goat’s (a) dizzy and disoriented
direct charge can restore ______ from his The text explicitly states that listeners are
singing. overwhelmed by his harsh singing, leading to
(a) peace disorientation and prompting them to leave,
(b) confusion highlighting the unsettling yet comedic nature of
(c) continuity his act.
(d) darkness
44. Horses, described as pitiful creatures, ______
Ans in distress, whining and flailing their legs in the
(a) peace air.
(a) calmly trot away from trouble
In the end, the billy goat’s bold action yields silence
(b) bravely charge at the audience
and calm. The comedic structure underscores
(c) helplessly rear up and protest
that pleas and arguments failed, whereas decisive
(d) quickly vanish without a trace
physical intervention ended the deafening chaos.
Ans
41. During the ______, Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s
voice fills the air, resonating across hills and (c) helplessly rear up and protest
plains. According to the text, horses react immediately
(a) scorching summer season to Bhisma’s deafening singing by rearing up,
(b) freezing winter nights whining, and flailing, underscoring their distressed
(c) misty autumn mornings state in the face of overwhelming noise.
(d) calm monsoon afternoons
45. At last, a wise billy goat appears and ______,
Ans matching Bhisma’s volume and colliding with
(a) scorching summer season him.
(a) flees to a secure hiding place
The text states that Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s
(b) lowers its horns in a direct assault
singing is heard during summer, describing his
(c) offers a gentle diplomatic solution
voice resonating across vast landscapes from
(d) observes calmly from a distance
Delhi to Burma, emphasizing the specific season
of his performance. Ans

42. Bhisma belts out tunes as if forced by ______ (b) lowers its horns in a direct assault
or as if he has placed a wager on his singing. The text describes the billy goat lowering its
(a) comedic illusions horns and striking Bhisma, instantly silencing his
(b) imposing circumstances singing and restoring peace, serving as a comically
(c) intense curiosity heroic end to the uproar.
(d) urgent personal desires
46. Which of the following lines contains the figure of
Ans speech that appears in the following line from The
(b) imposing circumstances Power of Music:
“The welkin weeps to hear his screech, and mighty
The text mentions “as if forced by circumstances,”
mansions tumble.”
implying that Bhisma might be singing under
(a) “The windy valley breathed gently at dawn.”
compulsion or a wager, adding humor to his
(b) “Clouds drifted aimlessly, forming silent
relentless and loud performance.
shapes.”

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Ch 5 : The Power of Music

68. Check how statements (1) and (2) relate in the naturally results in a relaxed audience (2). Both
final showdown of the poem: statements align to convey the comedic finale.
Statement (1) : The goat’s bellow answers
Bhisma’s ear-splitting performance, creating a
brutal collision.
Statement (2) : Bhisma’s unstoppable singing is EXTRACT BASED QUESTION
instantly scattered, granting everyone silence.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false 1. Read the following lines and answer the questions
(c) (1) leads to (2) that follow:
(d) (1) and (2) show no direct link “When summer comes, we hear the hums
Ans Bhisma Lochan Sharma.
You catch his strain on hill and plain
(c) (1) leads to (2) from Delhi down to Burma.”
When the goat charges and bellows, it forcibly (i) How does the poem associate the arrival of
disrupts Bhisma’s music. That direct action summer with “the hums” of Bhisma Lochan
terminates the monstrous noise. Therefore, the Sharma?
brutal collision (1) directly achieves quiet (2). (ii) Why might his song or “strain” stretch “from
Delhi down to Burma”?
69. Decide which option best captures how statements (iii) What atmosphere is created by linking warm
(1) and (2) conclude the comedic narrative: weather to this continuous humming?
Statement (1) : Bhisma Lochan’s blasts of song (iv) In what way does referencing different regions
become “tossed and whirled” by the goat’s charge. (hill and plain) emphasize the spread of
Statement (2) : People finally enjoy the “golden Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s music?
gift of silence” after the loud confrontation. (v) The lines highlight a traveling or far-reaching
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false melody.
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Do you interpret this as a literal journey
(c) (1) and (2) are unrelated of sound or a symbolic unity across diverse
(d) (1) leads directly to (2) places?
Ans Give one reason for your view.
(d) (1) leads directly to (2) Ans
The goat’s collision literally scatters Bhisma’s (i) The lines suggest that with the onset of the
unstoppable tune, which results in the sudden hot season, a distinctive humming emerges,
hush. This comedic chain of events clarifies that attributed to Bhisma Lochan Sharma. His
forcibly ending his song (1) brings peace (2). name is directly tied to the summer mood,
implying he or his music is a well-known sign
70. Consider statements (1) and (2) for the poem’s of the changing climate.
overall resolution, then select the correct (ii) Mentioning “hill and plain” and spanning
relationship: “from Delhi down to Burma” implies that his
Statement (1) : Bhisma finally “grants the world tune, or presence, travels across vast distances
the golden gift of silence” at the poem’s end. and varied landscapes, showing its wide appeal
Statement (2) : Listeners at last relax, relieved or influence. These locations illustrate how
that his performance has ceased. his strain transcends geographical barriers.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (iii) Pairing summer with this ongoing hum
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false conjures a vibrant, almost festive setting.
(c) (1) is unrelated to (2) Warm weather becomes intertwined with
(d) (1) and (2) complement each other Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s melody, evoking
Ans a lively ambiance where nature and culture
blend into one continuous background sound.
(d) (1) and (2) complement each other (iv) By referencing multiple terrains, the poem
Once he’s silenced, it’s precisely the relief everyone underscores the reach of his music, implying it
craved. Thus, bestowing the “gift of silence” (1) resonates in every corner, from mountainous

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Ans Ans
(c) 2, 1, 3, 4 (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
First, it’s summer (2), then we learn his voice Fish diving away (1) appears before onlookers
travels to Burma (1). Next, he seems to sing as declare they might die (2). Birds then flip midair
if betting his life (3), while listeners realize he’s (3). Despite this chaos, Bhisma remains unmoved,
well-intentioned despite dizziness (4). continuing his massive voice (4).

52. Decide which sequence best matches these lines 55. Consider the references to birds and the sky.
about panic and sickness: Arrange these items in the poem’s logic:
1. People flee in a stampede, feeling unwell. 1. The welkin “weeps” upon hearing Bhisma.
2. They ask Bhisma to stop, claiming they’re 2. Feathered creatures flip upside down.
near their end. 3. People beg, “We’re going to die!”
3. He keeps singing at full volume. 4. Bhisma soars “beyond our reach,” ignoring
4. Horses and bullock carts react chaotically. pleas.
(a) 4, 1, 2, 3 (a) 2, 3, 4, 1
(b) 1, 4, 2, 3 (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 (c) 2, 4, 1, 3
(d) 2, 3, 4, 1 (d) 3, 1, 2, 4
Ans Ans
(b) 1, 4, 2, 3 (a) 2, 3, 4, 1
First, a stampede breaks out (1) and animals First, birds turn turtle in flight (2). People panic,
join the chaos (4). People beg him to halt (2), crying they might die (3). Bhisma keeps singing
but Bhisma remains unmoved, continuing his anyway (4). Finally, the sky (welkin) “weeps” at
deafening singing (3). his unstoppable screech (1).

53. Identify the correct order of events describing 56. Identify the correct flow of the poem’s lines about
animal reactions: unstoppable singing:
1. Horses whine and toss their feet in distress. 1. Bhisma’s music shakes buildings.
2. The deafening music blasts through the area. 2. Onlookers complain but can’t stop him.
3. Fishes dive below the lake, seeking silence. 3. The mighty mansions “tumble.”
4. Trees shake and collapse from the sound. 4. He’s described as having soared beyond their
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3 reach.
(b) 1, 3, 2, 4 (a) 4, 2, 1, 3
(c) 2, 4, 3, 1 (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
(d) 2, 1, 3, 4 (c) 2, 4, 1, 3
(d) 1, 2, 4, 3
Ans
(d) 2, 1, 3, 4 Ans
The poem’s big noise hits first (2), prompting (c) 2, 4, 1, 3
horses to show distress (1). Next, fish dive to People protest in vain (2), while Bhisma’s soared
escape (3), and finally trees fall under the impact “beyond reach” (4). As a result, he sings so
(4), accentuating the comedic chaos. forcefully that buildings shake (1) and eventually
54. Choose how these statements about the poem’s collapse (3), emphasizing the comedic devastation.
midsection line up: 57. Next, the poem brings in a goat. Decide how
1. We see fish frantically escaping underwater. these lines follow each other:
2. People claim the singing might kill them. 1. The goat is called “most sagacious.”
3. Birds in the sky flip over (“turn turtle”). 2. It lowers its horns, charging at Bhisma.
4. Bhisma still won’t stop, however they protest. 3. Loud “bellow answering bellow” occurs.
(a) 1, 3, 2, 4 4. The chaotic singing finally stops.
(b) 2, 4, 1, 3 (a) 2, 4, 1, 3
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4 (b) 1, 2, 3, 4
(d) 3, 1, 4, 2

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Ch 5 : The Power of Music

8. Read the following lines and answer the questions 9. Read the following lines and answer the questions
that follow: that follow:
“But Bhisma’s soared beyond our reach, howe’er “But now there comes a billy goat, a most
we plead and grumble; sagacious fellow,
The welkin weeps to hear his screech, and mighty He downs his horns and charges straight, with
mansions tumble.” bellow answ’ring bellow.”
(i) What does the poem imply about Bhisma’s (i) What immediate action does the billy goat
song being “beyond our reach”? take upon arriving, and how does that define
(ii) Why might the people’s complaints (“plead its response?
and grumble”) fail to affect him? (ii) Why might the poet describe this goat as “a
(iii) In what sense does “the welkin weeps” most sagacious fellow”?
emphasize the magnitude of his singing? (iii) In what way does the goat’s charging highlight
(iv) How do “mighty mansions tumble” convey a contrast to the previous fearful reactions?
the extreme consequences of his performance? (iv) How does the idea of it “bellowing” back
(v) The poem shows unstoppable force in suggest a form of challenge or confrontation?
Bhisma’s soaring voice. (v) The poem shifts tone as the goat “charges
Would you interpret this as a powerful, almost straight” and meets the noisy chaos head-on.
mythical talent or an exaggerated nuisance? Do you interpret this moment as comedic
Give one short reason for your stance. relief or a bold stand against the clamor?
Give one brief reason for your view.
Ans
(i) It suggests that Bhisma’s singing has ascended Ans
to an almost unattainable level, literally out of (i) He immediately lowers his horns and rushes
earshot of any pleas. His performance remains forward aggressively, establishing an assertive
unaffected by normal limits, highlighting a stance. Rather than fleeing like others, the
transcendence beyond common complaint. goat confronts the commotion directly, driven
(ii) Despite protests, he seems unmoved by their by apparent confidence.
disapproval. The lines imply his focus is fixed (ii) Calling him “sagacious” implies he’s
on his lofty, resonant vocals rather than on unusually clever or perceptive for a goat. This
human objections, rendering their “grumbles” suggests he not only grasps the situation but
meaningless against such unwavering also chooses a calculated response rather than
ambition. succumbing to panic.
(iii) The phrase “welkin weeps” personifies the (iii) Previously, animals cowered or tried to
sky, implying nature itself mourns or suffers escape, but this billy goat actively charges in.
under the intensity of his screech. It signifies The shift from timidity to defiance signals a
a cosmic scale, suggesting that even the dramatic turn: now there’s a creature facing
heavens react to his overpowering sound. the noise instead of fleeing.
(iv) Saying “mighty mansions tumble” pushes (iv) By bellowing back, the goat effectively answers
the idea that his voice leads to catastrophic the overpowering singing with its own booming
upheaval. Beyond just disturbing animals voice. This duel-like exchange symbolizes
or toppling carts, his effect extends to a direct challenge to the source of chaos,
grand structures, enhancing the portrayal of indicating it won’t be overpowered easily.
massive, destructive impact. (v) It can be seen as a humorous moment,
(v) It can be read as a near-mythical power that offering relief from the poem’s destruction, or
defies constraints. a valiant stand against the deafening racket.
One reason is that the poem’s hyperbolic One reason is the sudden switch from frantic
language-nature weeping, colossal buildings disarray to a goat charging in bravely,
collapsing-portrays him less as a mere injecting both levity and a sense of rebellion.
annoyance and more as an unstoppable
phenomenon.

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Ans Statement (2) : Bhisma remains undeterred,

(a) (1) is true and (2) is false ignoring pleas and continuing at maximum
volume.
Far from delight, people suffer discomfort and
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
beg him to stop. His ear-splitting volume prompts
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
them to scatter, making (2) inconsistent with the
(c) (1) triggers (2)
poem’s comedic depiction of chaos.
(d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
63. Reflect on how these statements (1) and (2) Ans
connect in the poem, then pick the appropriate
choice: (d) (1) and (2) reinforce each other
Statement (1) : Bullock-carts overturn and horses Birds flipping underscores the severity of the
cluster along the roadside, all frightened by the noise, and people’s cries show desperation. Yet
singing. Bhisma keeps going, linking both statements
Statement (2) : These animals stand calmly, into a comedic demonstration of unstoppable,
enchanted by the sweet tune Bhisma produces. overwhelming singing.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false 66. Observe these statements (1) and (2) from the
(c) (1) causes (2) poem and choose the correct option:
(d) (1) and (2) are independent Statement (1) : The welkin (sky) “weeps,” and
mighty mansions collapse, indicating extreme
Ans noise.
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false Statement (2) : Spectators form a festival, praising
Bhisma’s glorious voice as uplifting.
The poem describes widespread animal distress,
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
not gentle enchantment. Horses appear troubled,
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false
while carts are overturned. Thus, statement
(c) (1) leads to (2)
(2) contradicts the comedic portrayal of frantic
(d) (1) and (2) are independent
animals escaping.
Ans
64. Consider the statements (1) and (2) below from
The Power of Music, and decide on the correct (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
relationship: The comedic hyperbole suggests even the sky
Statement (1) : Fishes dive for silence, and trees laments. Buildings tumble. No festival is formed
collapse under Bhisma’s thunderous singing. in admiration of his singing, so (2) conflicts with
Statement (2) : Nature shows no reaction, the chaos described in the poem.
continuing peacefully as if nothing unusual
happens. 67. Evaluate the statements (1) and (2) below, then
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false pick how they align:
(b) (2) is true and (1) is false Statement (1) : A clever billy goat arrives, labeled
(c) (1) directly triggers (2) “most sagacious,” and lowers its horns.
(d) (1) and (2) have no link Statement (2) : The goat politely requests Bhisma
to alter his singing style and reduce volume.
Ans (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
(c) (1) is unrelated to (2)
The poem uses hyperbole, showing fish plunging
(d) (1) is the cause for (2)
away and trees crashing. That refutes any notion
of calm acceptance. Hence, nature’s comedic Ans
turmoil invalidates statement (2). (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
65. Determine how statements (1) and (2) fit together Yes, the goat is wise but does not ask politely.
in Sukumar Ray’s comedic verse: It charges directly, using force to halt Bhisma’s
Statement (1) : Birds flip upside down mid-flight, unstoppable racket. Thus, (2) contradicts what
prompting onlookers to exclaim they might die actually happens at the poem’s finale.
from his singing.

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Ch 5 : The Power of Music

(c) 3, 1, 4, 2 60. Determine the logical progression describing how

(d) 1, 3, 4, 2 this comedic tale resolves:
1. Bhisma’s song is described as unstoppable.
Ans
2. All living things flee or collapse.
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 3. The sagacious billy goat intervenes.
First, it’s introduced as a wise goat (1), then 4. Silence reigns after the goat’s assault.
charges Bhisma (2). The goat’s cry matches (a) 1, 3, 2, 4
Bhisma’s volume (3), and that collision ends the (b) 2, 1, 4, 3
deafening music (4). (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
(d) 4, 2, 1, 3
58. Select the correct order for these statements
Ans
about the final part:
1. The goat’s direct collision disrupts Bhisma’s (c) 1, 2, 3, 4
voice. First, Bhisma’s unstoppable singing is set up (1).
2. Bhisma’s unstoppable singing meets an Next, animals and people fail to handle it (2).
equally strong bellow. Finally, the goat steps in (3), ending the noise and
3. The poem calls this attack a “blast of brutal restoring quiet (4).
violence.”
(a) last, silence-described as a “golden gift”- 61. Examine the following pair of statements (1) and
arrives. (2) from Sukumar Ray’s The Power of Music,
(a) 2, 1, 4, 3 and decide which option correctly captures their
(b) 1, 4, 3, 2 relationship:
(c) 2, 3, 1, 4 Statement (1) : Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s voice
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 extends from Delhi to Burma, as humorously
claimed.
Ans
Statement (2) : He maintains a subtle, muted
(c) 2, 3, 1, 4 tone only noticeable within a short radius.
The goat’s bellow faces off with Bhisma’s singing (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
(2). It’s labeled “brutal violence” (3). That (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
smashing collision halts the music (1). Finally, (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
everyone celebrates the quiet (4). (d) (1) and (2) are independent
Ans
(a) (1) is true and (2) is false
The poem exaggerates that his thunderous
59. Think about how the poem ends, focusing on singing spans a vast distance. That conflicts with
comedic relief: any notion of soft, limited reach. Consequently,
1. The goat rams Bhisma. statement (2) contradicts the comedic hyperbole
2. The singer’s voice gets “tossed and whirled.” in (1).
3. He grants the world a “golden gift” of silence.
4. Everyone at last experiences calm and relief. 62. Analyze how statements (1) and (2) interlock
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 in The Power of Music, then select the correct
(b) 2, 1, 4, 3 option:
(c) 1, 3, 2, 4 Statement (1) : Listeners experience dizziness and
(d) 3, 2, 1, 4 leave in panic when Bhisma belts out his loud
tunes.
Ans Statement (2) : They find blissful delight in his
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4 performance, staying to enjoy the harmonious
The goat charges first (1), flinging Bhisma and melody.
his music “tossed and whirled” (2). That action (a) (1) is true and (2) is false
ends the chaos as Bhisma finally stops (3), letting (b) (2) is true and (1) is false
everyone enjoy silence (4). (c) (1) is the cause for (2)
(d) (1) and (2) have no direct link

Downloaded From www.mcqgpt.com

ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 387

zones to level fields. This detail hints at a slight unease. This contrast underscores the
unifying cultural thread carried by his singer’s power to captivate and astonish,
humming throughout diverse landscapes. pushing the audience beyond their usual
(v) It can be taken literally-as a popular comfort zone.
tune traveling far-or symbolically, uniting (v) He channels extraordinary passion that can
communities under a shared experience. be admirable for its honesty and boldness.
One reason for seeing it symbolically is One reason is that dedicating oneself so
the poem’s emphasis on how the “strain” completely might inspire others, even if
connects varied places, suggesting harmony it momentarily stuns them with its sheer
and collective identity rather than a mere intensity.
physical route.
3. Read the following lines and answer the questions
2. Read the following lines and answer the questions that follow:
that follow: “They’re trampled in the panic rout or languish
“He sings as though he’s staked his life, he sings pale and sickly,
as though he’s hell-bent; And plead, ‘My friend, we’re near our end, oh
The people, dazed, retire amazed although they stop your singing quickly!’”
know it’s well-meant.” (i) What situation do these lines suggest about
(i) How does the poem highlight the extreme the crowd’s condition?
intensity behind his singing? (ii) Why might the people be “pale and sickly”?
(ii) Why might the speaker use the phrase “he (iii) In what way does their plea, “stop your singing
sings as though he’s staked his life”? quickly,” reveal the effect of his performance
(iii) In what way do the listeners’ reactions reveal on them?
both astonishment and acknowledgment of (iv) Discuss how the image of being trampled or
his sincerity? languishing underscores the extent of their
(iv) Discuss how the lines convey a mix of wonder distress.
and bewilderment among the people who (v) The poem shows a dramatic response to his
hear him sing. intense singing.
(v) He performs with fierce determination, Do you see this as a sign that he should
leaving the crowd “dazed.” moderate his style or a testament to his
Do you read this as a commendable passion overwhelming passion?
or a sign of excessive zeal? Give one brief reason.
Give one reason supporting your view.
Ans
Ans (i) They indicate a dire state among the listeners,
(i) The poem emphasizes his singing with describing chaos and physical strain. Some
phrases like “staked his life” and “hell-bent,” are crushed in a panicked rush, while others
suggesting an all-or-nothing fervor that collapse from exhaustion, conveying the
invests every note with high-stakes urgency. extreme impact of his performance.
This intensity becomes the centerpiece of the (ii) Their pallor and weakness hint they can’t
scene. withstand the overpowering effects of his
(ii) That phrase underscores how deeply he relentless singing. Whether from sheer volume
commits to each performance, implying he or emotional intensity, the crowd succumbs to
risks everything in his music. It conveys fatigue, reinforcing the scene’s high drama.
genuine devotion, as though he believes (iii) Their desperate request to end the song shows
failure isn’t an option. his unyielding voice has pushed them to
(iii) They’re simultaneously impressed and breaking point. Rather than finding delight,
overwhelmed, stepping back to process the they’re overwhelmed, pleading for relief from
force of his performance. Their amazement the overwhelming strain.
mingles with respect for his wholehearted (iv) Referring to them as “trampled” or “sickly”
sincerity, showing they trust his good emphasizes an almost catastrophic outcome.
intentions despite being taken aback. The lines capture the toll on both body and
(iv) By describing them as “dazed” yet aware it’s spirit, highlighting how his uncompromising
“well-meant,” the poem balances awe with energy has worn them down.

Downloaded From www.mcqgpt.com

Ch 5 : The Power of Music

(v) He might need restraint, as their suffering causing chaos, indicating single-minded
suggests a harmful intensity. intensity that borders on inconsideration.
One reason is that pushing people to such
exhaustion, while perhaps showcasing his 5. Read the following lines and answer the questions
zeal, verges on destructive rather than purely that follow:
passionate. “The wretched brutes resent the blare the hour
they hear it sounded,
4. Read the following lines and answer the questions They whine and stare with feet in air or wonder
that follow: quite confounded.”
“The bullock-carts are overturned, and horses (i) What is implied about the animals’ reaction
line the roadside; to the loud “blare” mentioned in these lines?
But Bhisma Lochan, unconcerned, goes (ii) Why might they become so distressed the
booming out his broadside.” moment this sound is heard?
(i) What do these lines suggest about the chaos (iii) How does the description of their behavior
unfolding around Bhisma Lochan? (“whine and stare with feet in air”) illustrate
(ii) Why might the horses be lining the roadside the severity of their confusion?
while “bullock-carts are overturned”? (iv) In what way does the phrase “wonder quite
(iii) How does Bhisma Lochan’s indifference confounded” emphasize their inability to
highlight his intense focus on singing? comprehend this disturbance?
(iv) In what way does describing his voice as a (v) The poem suggests that these creatures are
“booming broadside” emphasize its impact? deeply unsettled by the noise.
(v) These lines depict a disruptive effect on the Do you think this chaos arises from genuine
surroundings while Bhisma Lochan continues fear or from mere irritation?
undeterred. Give one short reason for your viewpoint.
Do you view this as a sign of sheer dedication Ans
or of reckless disregard?
(i) They appear upset and alarmed, indicating
Give a brief reason for your stance.
the sound causes an abrupt, disturbing
Ans impact on them. The animals’ quick response
(i) They depict an environment turned upside suggests the noise is uncomfortably intense,
down, where carts flip and animals end up triggering immediate resentment.
stranded. The disorder implies that Bhisma (ii) The phrase “the hour they hear it sounded”
Lochan’s powerful singing has unintentionally implies a sudden, loud occurrence. This
created turmoil for everyone nearby. startling volume can provoke a sense of threat
(ii) Horses on the roadside suggest they’ve been or pain, prompting their panicked reaction
forced aside or halted amid the uproar. The whenever the blare begins.
contrast of overturned carts against waiting (iii) “Feet in air” and whining convey a desperate
horses underscores the abrupt confusion his attempt to flee or shield themselves. Their
music triggers. confusion is so great that normal responses
(iii) By continuing unfazed, he shows no concern are replaced by frantic, almost helpless
for the trouble around him, fully absorbed in gestures, underscoring the noise’s disruptive
his performance. His detachment highlights power.
an all-consuming devotion to singing that (iv) It shows they cannot process what’s happening
overrides practical awareness. or why. “Wonder quite confounded” means
(iv) Calling his voice a “booming broadside” likens they are left both curious and bewildered, as
it to a thunderous onslaught, underscoring if their usual instincts fail them in the face of
how it hits everyone with monumental force, this bewildering din.
resulting in disturbance rather than simple (v) They likely experience genuine fear, rather
entertainment. than mild annoyance.
(v) It could signify unwavering passion; however, One reason is that their entire demeanor
it also suggests an obliviousness to others’ (whining, staring, limbs raised) points to a
well-being. profound sense of alarm rather than simple
One reason is that he forges ahead despite displeasure at an irritant.

Downloaded From www.mcqgpt.com

ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 389

6. Read the following lines and answer the questions 7. Read the following lines and answer the questions
that follow: that follow:
“The fishes dived below the lake in frantic search “And in the sky the feathered fly turn turtle while
for silence, they’re winging,
The very trees collapse and shake – you hear the Again we cry, ‘We’re going to die, oh won’t you
crash a mile hence –” stop your singing?’”
(i) How do these lines depict the intense reaction (i) What does the poem suggest about birds
of the natural world to the overwhelming “turning turtle” in mid-flight?
sound? (ii) Why might the people cry out in fear, linking
(ii) Why do you think “fishes” specifically dive their safety to the cessation of this singing?
for silence, and how does it reinforce the (iii) How do these lines depict an ongoing
poem’s sense of disturbance? escalation of panic or distress?
(iii) In what manner do “collapsing trees” (iv) In what way does pairing airborne chaos
emphasize the scale of chaos unleashed? with pleas for help intensify the poem’s
(iv) Discuss the phrase “you hear the crash a mile atmosphere?
hence” in terms of highlighting the noise’s (v) The poem portrays a dramatic toll on both
reach or magnitude. animals and people.
(v) These lines portray widespread upheaval, Would you call this a comedic exaggeration or
with both creatures and plants suffering. a genuine expression of danger?
Would you interpret this as hyperbole for Give one short reason supporting your view.
dramatic effect or a literal representation of
Ans
noise-induced destruction?
Give one reason for your stance. (i) It implies that even birds, typically adept
fliers, are so rattled by the overwhelming
Ans noise that they literally flip or lose control
(i) They show nature recoiling en masse-fish mid-air. This startling image underscores the
abandon the water’s surface in desperate song’s disruptive force.
flight, while trees physically give way under (ii) They perceive his relentless singing as life-
the disruptive force. This broad upheaval threatening, prompting desperate pleas for
underscores the epic scope of the disturbance. quiet. The direct link between his performance
(ii) Highlighting fish diving “for silence” suggests and their fear suggests they view each new
even underwater dwellers cannot escape the verse as an impending catastrophe.
deafening din. It drives home how pervasive (iii) By stating the birds flip over in the sky and
the sound is, reaching creatures normally that people cry out a second time-“Again
buffered by water yet still forced into panicked we cry”-the poem conveys how the chaos
retreat. grows. Each new event amplifies the sense of
(iii) Trees literally shaking and collapsing depicts imminent catastrophe.
a near-cataclysmic scene. Their downfall goes (iv) Combining the spectacle of stricken birds
beyond mere swaying; it paints an image of overhead with human terror underscores a
unstoppable turmoil, marking the noise as worldwide upheaval. This contrast-nature’s
not just loud but destructive. creatures flipping above, humans panicking
(iv) Emphasizing that the crash resonates “a below-presents a unified sense of calamity
mile hence” points to extraordinary volume. unfolding from one man’s song.
It amplifies the sense that no one, even at a (v) It likely uses overblown scenarios to emphasize
considerable distance, is safe from the jarring the singer’s disruptive effect in a humorous or
echoes of devastation. satirical way.
(v) It may be dramatic exaggeration to stress the One reason is the extreme imagery of birds
noise’s immense power. toppling mid-flight and people proclaiming
One reason is that uprooting trees and certain doom, which appears more theatrical
prompting fish to dive for cover conveys an than literal.
extraordinary effect, hinting the poet uses
extremes to evoke awe rather than literal
truth.

Downloaded From www.mcqgpt.com

Ch 5 : The Power of Music

(c) “The old door groaned in protest as it swung 49. Which of these lines demonstrates the same figure
open.” of speech found in:
(d) “Morning sunlight fell across the quiet “He sings as though he’s staked his life, he sings
meadows.” as though he’s hell-bent.”
(a) “She moved as quietly as a cat skulking in the
Ans
night.”
(c) “The old door groaned in protest as it swung (b) “They soared above the hills with unstoppable
open.” might.”
Calling a door “groaning” or “protesting” makes it (c) “I offered him gentle words that eased his
act like a person, just as “the welkin weeps.” Both sorrow.”
lines bestow human characteristics on nonhuman (d) “He remembered old tales of lost battles.”
entities, showing classic personification. Ans
47. Which of these lines shows the same figure of (a) “She moved as quietly as a cat skulking in the
speech found in: night.”
“You catch his strain on hill and plain from Delhi Similes use “as” or “like” to compare. “As though”
down to Burma.” forms a direct parallel to the poem’s structure,
(a) “He boasted his shout could topple entire likewise “as quietly as a cat” exemplifies simile-
mountains in an hour.” based phrasing.
(b) “A gentle breeze passed through the orchard
with a mild sigh.” 50. Determine which line displays the same figure of
(c) “She strolled quietly down the lane, unnoticed speech that appears in:
by anyone.” “The very trees collapse and shake-you hear the
(d) “The raindrops tapped on rooftops, softly crash a mile hence.”
humming all night.” (a) “Her laughter was a lightning bolt sparking
the room with brightness.”
Ans
(b) “He tiptoed so softly, like a passing breeze.”
(a) “He boasted his shout could topple entire (c) “The hills echoed her name gently.”
mountains in an hour.” (d) “It seemed to him that time stood still,
Saying a voice covers from Delhi to Burma is an motionless in wonder.”
overstatement. Here too, claiming a single shout Ans
can knock down mountains is hugely exaggerated-
fitting the definition of hyperbole. (a) “Her laughter was a lightning bolt sparking
the room with brightness.”
48. Identify which line contains the same figure of Here, laughter is directly equated to a lightning
speech as in: bolt-no “as” or “like.” Similarly, describing trees
“They whine and stare with feet in air or wonder collapsing from a mere song is a figurative image
quite confounded.” that compares singing to a destructive force.
(a) “She welcomed them with silent applause.”
(b) “He felt a joyous panic when the music 51. Choose the option that arranges these details in
began.” the correct order:
(c) “The cat calmly slept by the warm fireplace.” 1. Bhisma Lochan Sharma’s voice is heard from
(d) “Waves crashed loudly along the smooth Delhi down to Burma.
shore.” 2. The poem humorously sets a summer
backdrop.
Ans
3. He sings as though he has placed a wager on
(b) “He felt a joyous panic when the music began.” his performance.
“Joyous panic” pairs opposites: happiness and 4. Listeners become dizzy but note he means no
alarm. Similarly, “wonder quite confounded” harm.
combines fascination with utter bafflement—both (a) 2, 1, 4, 3
are examples of an oxymoron’s contradictory (b) 1, 3, 2, 4
expressions in one phrase. (c) 2, 1, 3, 4
(d) 3, 4, 2, 1

Downloaded From www.mcqgpt.com

ICSE chapterwise PYQ Class 10 ENGLISH LITERATURE page 391

10. Read the following lines and answer the questions

that follow:
“The strains of song are tossed and whirled by
blast of brutal violence,
And Bhisma Lochan grants the world the golden
gift of silence.”
(i) What happens to Bhisma Lochan’s singing
under the forceful “blast of brutal violence”?
(ii) Why might the poem describe his eventual
silence as a “golden gift”?
(iii) In what way does this sudden quiet alter the
dramatic tension built up earlier?
(iv) How do these lines reflect the resolution or
conclusion of the turmoil surrounding his
powerful voice?
(v) The poem portrays his once-deafening
performance coming to a halt.
Do you view this final hush as a relief for
everyone involved, or a poignant loss of
spirited passion? Give one reason supporting
your perspective.
Ans
(i) His once-powerful singing becomes
overpowered and ultimately ceased by a
violent upheaval. The force disrupts his
resonant performance, hurling the “strains of
song” into chaos until he cannot continue.
(ii) Calling his silence a “golden gift” suggests
that the absence of his immense noise is a
welcome relief, as if an invaluable boon to the
world exhausted by his overwhelming vocal
display.
(iii) After so much racket, the abrupt quiet
provides a stark shift, diffusing the intensity
and allowing both the audience and nature
to recover. This calm finale replaces turmoil
with a sense of final repose.
(iv) By ending the clamor, the poem signifies a
form of resolution-chaos yields to calm. His
acquiescence or forced stillness concludes the
tension-laden episode, granting peace to all
affected by his thunderous singing.
(v) It seems predominantly a relief, granting
respite from destructive noise.
One reason is that everyone, including
nature, suffers his sonic onslaught, so halting
it restores balance rather than erasing a
cherished passion.

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2025-2005 (54 Papers) 2025-2005 (54 Papers) 2025-2005 (54 Papers) 2025-2005 (54 Papers) 2025-2005 (54 Papers)
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