Writing a Story and Diary Entry (100-120 words) - CBSE Board Exam - English - NCERT Solution

Writing a Story or Diary Entry (100-120 words)

CBSE Pattern | British English | Based on a Given Cue/Title

1. Writing a Story (100-120 words)

A story is a short narrative that usually includes characters, a setting, a conflict, and a resolution. For CBSE, students are expected to craft concise stories, focusing on the key elements of storytelling while keeping the word limit in mind.

Structure of a Story:

1. Introduction: Start with a brief introduction to the characters and setting. It should capture the reader’s attention and provide a context for the story.
2. Plot: Introduce the main event or problem that the story revolves around. This should be brief but engaging.
3. Climax: Highlight the most exciting or tense moment of the story.
4. Conclusion: Wrap up the story by resolving the conflict or problem, ending with a clear conclusion.

Guidelines for Writing a Story:

• Be Brief: Keep the story concise but meaningful, adhering to the 100-120 word limit.
• Focus on Key Elements: Include a simple plot with clear characterisation, avoiding unnecessary details.
• Use Dialogue: If possible, add short dialogues to make the story engaging.
• Stick to the Title/Cue: Make sure the story revolves around the given topic or title.

Example of a Story:

Title: A Brave Act

It was a stormy night when Riya heard a faint cry from outside. The streets were deserted, but curiosity got the better of her. She stepped out cautiously and followed the sound, only to find a kitten stuck in a drain. Without hesitation, Riya waded through the rainwater and carefully pulled the kitten to safety. Cold and wet, she returned home, her heart warm with pride. That night, she not only rescued a life but also discovered her own courage.

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2. Writing a Diary Entry (100-120 words)

A diary entry is a personal reflection on events, thoughts, or experiences. It’s informal, written in the first person, and expresses the writer’s emotions about a particular day or moment.

Structure of a Diary Entry:

1. Date and Salutation: Start with the date and address the entry with “Dear Diary.”
2. Introduction: Briefly introduce the event or experience that you are reflecting on.
3. Main Content: Describe your thoughts and feelings about the event. Reflect on what happened, how it made you feel, and any lessons you learned.
4. Conclusion: End with a final thought or reflection, or an anticipation for the future.

Guidelines for Writing a Diary Entry:

• Be Personal: A diary entry is meant to express personal emotions and reflections. Use “I” to convey your thoughts.
• Focus on Feelings: Reflect on your emotions—whether happy, sad, excited, or frustrated.
• Use Informal Language: Diary entries are informal, so feel free to write as you would speak.
• Stay on Topic: Stick to the specific event or experience you are reflecting on.

Example of a Diary Entry:

Date: 3rd October 2024
Dear Diary,

Today was one of the most exciting days of my life! We had our annual science fair, and my project on solar energy won the first prize. I was nervous at first, but as soon as I explained my project to the judges, I felt more confident. They seemed really impressed. All the hard work finally paid off, and I couldn’t be prouder. Mum and Dad were so happy too! I can’t wait to show the certificate to my friends at school tomorrow. This day will remain one of my best memories.

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Practice Exercise:

1. Story Title: The Lost Key
   Write a short story in 100-120 words based on the title.

2. Diary Entry Prompt: Write a diary entry describing a day when you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.

 

Bholi by KA Abbas Summary Q&A Solved

Summary of "Bholi" by K.A. Abbas

Bholi, originally named Sulekha, was the youngest daughter of Ramlal, a prosperous farmer. An injury in her childhood left her mentally slow, and smallpox disfigured her face. She also struggled with a speech defect, which led to ridicule from her peers and neglect from her family. Unlike her siblings, Bholi was considered unintelligent and unattractive, leaving her future uncertain. Her parents, worried that she might never marry, decided to send her to school as a last resort.

At first, Bholi was terrified of going to school, associating it with rejection like the family cow that was sold. However, her experience at school proved transformative. Her teacher treated her with kindness and patience, helping her build confidence and overcome her speech impediment. Over time, Bholi blossomed into a confident young woman.

Years later, Bholi’s parents arranged her marriage to Bishamber, an older man who limped and had grown children. Though initially willing to marry him, Bholi rejected the match when Bishamber demanded a dowry upon seeing her face. In a moment of strength and clarity, she stood up for herself, refusing to marry a greedy and unkind man. In the end, Bholi decided she would stay with her parents and become a schoolteacher, embracing her newfound self-worth.

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Answers to Questions

1. Why is Bholi’s father worried about her?
   
   Bholi's father was worried because she was neither beautiful nor intelligent, and he feared that she would never get married.

2. For what unusual reasons is Bholi sent to school?
   
   Bholi was sent to school because her parents thought that due to her appearance and perceived lack of intelligence, she had little chance of finding a husband. They believed schooling might be a way to care for her since marriage was unlikely.

3. Does Bholi enjoy her first day at school?
   
   Initially, Bholi was scared on her first day at school, but her teacher's kindness made her feel safe and welcome. By the end of the day, she felt hopeful and excited about returning to school.

4. Does she find her teacher different from the people at home? 
   
   Yes, Bholi finds her teacher different because she is kind and supportive, unlike her neglectful family.

5. Why do Bholi’s parents accept Bishamber’s marriage proposal?
   
   Bholi’s parents accepted Bishamber’s proposal because they believed that despite his age and limp, Bholi was fortunate to marry a well-off man, especially since he initially demanded no dowry.

6. Why does the marriage not take place? 
   
   The marriage did not take place because Bishamber demanded a dowry of five thousand rupees upon seeing Bholi's pockmarked face. Bholi, realizing his greed and lack of compassion, rejected the marriage.

7. Why is Bholi called Sulekha again at the end of the story?
   
   Bholi is called Sulekha at the end of the story to signify her transformation. She had grown into a confident and independent woman, leaving behind the timid and fearful girl who was once called Bholi, meaning "simpleton."

Think About It (Q&A)

1. Bholi had many apprehensions about going to school. What made her feel that she was going to a better place than her home?
   

   
   Bholi was initially frightened of going to school because she didn't understand what school was like. However, she began to feel she was going to a better place when she was given clean clothes to wear and bathed properly, something she had never experienced before. This special treatment made her believe that school might be a place better than her home, where she had always been neglected.
   
   
2. How did Bholi’s teacher play an important role in changing the course of her life?
   
   
   Bholi’s teacher played a crucial role in transforming her life by showing her kindness, patience, and encouragement. The teacher helped Bholi overcome her fears and speech problems by making her feel confident and capable. She nurtured Bholi’s self-esteem and inspired her to continue her education, giving her the strength to stand up for herself later in life.
   
   
3. Why did Bholi at first agree to an unequal match? Why did she later reject the marriage? What does this tell us about her?
   
   Bholi agreed to the unequal match with Bishamber initially out of a sense of duty to her family. She believed it was her responsibility to marry him to preserve her family's honor. However, when Bishamber demanded a dowry upon seeing her pockmarked face, she realized his greed and cruelty. She rejected the marriage, showing that she had gained the confidence to stand up for herself. This reveals her inner strength, self-respect, and newfound belief in her own worth.
   
   
4. Bholi’s real name is Sulekha. We are told this right at the beginning. But only in the last but one paragraph of the story is Bholi called Sulekha again. Why do you think she is called Sulekha at that point in the story?
   
   Bholi is called Sulekha again at the end of the story to symbolize her transformation from a timid, insecure girl (Bholi, meaning "simpleton") to a confident, self-assured woman (Sulekha, her real name). The use of her real name at this point reflects her growth, maturity, and the realization of her true potential. It marks the completion of her journey from vulnerability to empowerment.

SHORT ANSWERS

1. What made Bholi feel she was going to a better place than her home?
   Bholi felt she was going to a better place because she was bathed, given clean clothes, and treated specially, unlike at home where she was neglected.
2. How did Bholi’s teacher change her life?
   Bholi’s teacher showed her kindness and encouraged her, helping her overcome her fears and stammer, building her confidence and self-respect.
3. Why did Bholi agree to the marriage and later reject it?
   Bholi agreed to the marriage out of duty but rejected it when Bishamber demanded dowry, showing she had gained self-respect and independence.
4. Why is Bholi called Sulekha at the end?
   She is called Sulekha at the end to symbolize her transformation into a confident and empowered person, shedding her old timid identity.

TALK ABOUT IT

Answer the following questions in simple and lucid language: 

1. Bholi’s teacher helped her overcome social barriers by encouraging and motivating her. How do you think you can contribute towards changing the social attitudes illustrated in this story? 
   
   I can help change social attitudes by treating everyone with respect, encouraging those who are marginalized, and speaking out against discrimination.
   
   
2. Should girls be aware of their rights, and assert them? Should girls and boys have the same rights, duties and privileges? What are some of the ways in which society treats them differently? When we speak of ‘human rights’, do we differentiate between girls’ rights and boys’ rights? 
   
   Yes, girls should know their rights and assert them. Both girls and boys should have the same rights, duties, and privileges. Society often treats them differently by limiting girls’ education and opportunities, and human rights should be the same for everyone without gender discrimination.
   
   
3. Do you think the characters in the story were speaking to each other in English? If not, in which language were they speaking? (You can get clues from the names of the persons and the non English words used in the story.) 
   
   The characters were likely not speaking in English; they were probably speaking in Hindi or another regional language, as indicated by their names and cultural context.

The Proposal by Anton Chekhov - Summary, Q&A, Important Questions and MCQs

Summary of "The Proposal" by Anton Chekhov

"The Proposal" is a one-act farce that explores the comedic and absurd nature of courtship between the wealthy landowners Ivan Lomov and Natalya Stepanovna. Lomov visits Stepan Chubukov’s house to propose to his daughter, Natalya. However, instead of smoothly asking for her hand in marriage, they begin to argue over trivial matters like the ownership of Oxen Meadows and whose dog is better. These petty arguments escalate to the point where the proposal itself is almost forgotten. In the end, despite their endless bickering, Chubukov persuades them to get married, although they continue arguing even after their engagement is secured.

Answers to Questions

1. What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for? Is he sincere when he later says, "And I've always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son"?

   • Chubukov initially suspects that Lomov has come to borrow money. He is not entirely sincere when he later claims that he has always loved Lomov like his own son. His exaggerated reaction to Lomov's proposal, followed by the rapid change in his behavior when Lomov starts arguing with Natalya, shows that his affection is more tied to the material benefit of the marriage than genuine emotion.

2. Chubukov says of Natalya: "...as if she won’t consent! She’s in love; egad, she’s like a lovesick cat..." Would you agree?

   • Yes, Chubukov's statement is partly true. Natalya’s reaction after learning that Lomov came to propose — she becomes extremely upset and demands that he be brought back immediately — suggests that she has feelings for Lomov, even if they are not overtly romantic. Her sudden switch from arguing with Lomov to eagerly accepting his proposal reflects emotional confusion, much like a "lovesick cat."

3. (i) Find all the words and expressions in the play that the characters use to speak about each other, and the accusations and insults they hurl at each other.

   • Lomov calls Chubukov a "malicious, double-faced intriguer" and accuses him of being a "grabber." Chubukov, in turn, calls Lomov a "fool," a "pettifogger," and an "intriguer." Natalya and Lomov also insult each other, with Lomov claiming that Natalya’s dog, Squeezer, is "overshot" and a poor hunter, while Natalya calls Lomov’s dog, Guess, "old" and "ugly."

   (ii) Five adjectives to describe each character:

   • Lomov: Nervous, argumentative, insecure, excitable, indecisive.
   • Natalya: Stubborn, emotional, quarrelsome, passionate, prideful.
   • Chubukov: Manipulative, opportunistic, impatient, hypocritical, dramatic.

   (iii) What will they quarrel about next?

• They are likely to quarrel about household matters, future decisions regarding their land or livestock, or continue bickering about trivial matters like their dogs, as their argumentative nature seems to be a core part of their personalities.

How to Write a Report – Format, Topics, and Samples

What is Report Writing?

Report writing is a formal method of communication used to present information systematically and succinctly. It aims to convey findings, opinions, or data from various sources to a specific audience, ensuring the information is clear, accurate, and relevant.

Types of Reports:

1. Newspaper Report: Focuses on an event, incident, or issue of public interest.

2. Magazine Report: A more detailed and analytical version, usually covering a topic or event in depth.

3. School Report: A concise, formal account of an academic or extracurricular activity or event.

Report Writing Format:

When writing a report, it’s important to follow a structured format:

1. Heading/Title:

• Should be brief and eye-catching.
• Must convey the essence of the report.

2. Byline:

• This indicates the author of the report.
• Do not include personal information like roll numbers or class unless required.

3. Introduction/Lead Paragraph:

• The first paragraph should introduce the event, place, time, and other relevant details.
• It sets the tone and provides the context for the reader.

4. Body of the Report:

• This section provides more details regarding the event or topic.
• Follow a logical order and ensure the facts are accurate.
• Mention key participants, actions, and outcomes.
• You can break the body into multiple paragraphs for clarity and coherence.

5. Conclusion:

• Summarize the key points of the report.
• If applicable, suggest future actions or consequences.

6. Facts and Data:

• Incorporate statistical data, quotes, or factual information that support your report.

Sample Report Topics:

1. School Events:

Example: Annual Sports Day, Science Fair, Debate Competition

2. Accidents and Disasters:

Example: Road Accident, Fire Breakout, Floods

3. Social Issues:

Example: Increasing Air Pollution, Water Scarcity, Poverty

4. Current Affairs:

Example: Elections, New Government Policies, International Summit

Sample Report (School Event):

Title: Annual Sports Day Celebrated at ABC School

By: XYZ, Class 12

The Annual Sports Day of ABC School was held on September 25, 2024, with great enthusiasm and zeal. The event commenced at 9 AM on the school grounds, where the students, teachers, and parents gathered in large numbers.

The chief guest, Mr. Arun Prakash, an eminent sports personality, inaugurated the event with a brief motivational speech. Students from all grades participated in various sports competitions, including track and field events, basketball, and cricket matches.

The highlight of the day was the 100-meter sprint, in which Saurabh from Class 11 won first place. The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where the winners were felicitated by the chief guest.

The event was a grand success, thanks to the efforts of the sports faculty and student volunteers. It reinforced the spirit of teamwork and healthy competition among the students.

Class 11 - English - Hornbill - Ch. 3 - Discovering Tut: The Saga Continues

Understanding the text

Question 1.

Give reasons for the following.

1. King Tut’s body has been subjected to repeated scrutiny.
   
   Answer:
   King Tutankhamun, also known as King Tut, is one of the most well-known pharaohs of ancient Egypt and his tomb was discovered in 1922 by archaeologist Howard Carter. His mummy and the treasures found in the tomb have been the subject of much study and scrutiny since then. The reasons for this include his historical significance as a powerful and influential ruler during a crucial period in ancient Egyptian history, the scientific advancements that have allowed scientists to use new methods to study his mummy and artifacts, the medical findings that can be obtained from the study of the mummy, the mystery surrounding his death and the public interest in understanding ancient Egyptian history.
   
   

2. Howard Carter’s investigation was resented.
   
   Answer:
   Howard Carter’s investigation was resented because the mummy was dismembered in order to separate it from the golden coffin, which was seen as a disrespectful and intrusive method of studying the mummy, as it can cause damage to the remains and disrupt the preservation of the mummy. Moreover, it was focused on treasure hunting rather than prioritising to understand the past and its cultural importance.
   
   

3. Carter had to chisel away the solidified resins to raise the king’s remains.
   
   Answer:
   When Howard Carter discovered the tomb of King Tutankhamun, the mummy of the king was still inside its golden coffin and was encased in a layer of solidified resin. Carter and his team had to chisel away the resin in order to raise the king's remains.
   (include the rest of this answer for long answer type)
   There are several reasons for this:

Preservation: The resin was used as a way to preserve the mummy and its associated grave goods. The resins were used to protect the mummy from decay and to seal the tomb from the elements, but also to protect it from grave robbers.

A ritual act: The use of resin was also a ritual act, it was considered as a way of preserving the mummy for eternity, and it was a way to show respect to the dead.

Access to the mummy: In order to study the mummy and the artifacts found in the tomb, Carter and his team needed to remove the resin. Without removing the resin, they would not have been able to access the mummy and the artifacts, and their understanding of the tomb and its contents would have been limited.

Removal of the mummy: The mummy was still inside the golden coffin, and the only way to remove it was to chisel away the resin. This process was not an easy one, it was a delicate process that required skilled workers, and it took several weeks to complete.

It is worth noting that this method of chiselling the resin away was commonly used in the early days of Egyptology, and it was not as well understood as it is today, the importance of preserving the mummy and its context. Today, archaeologists use non-destructive methods to study mummies, such as CT scans and X-rays, which allow for a detailed examination of the mummy without causing any damage.

4. Tut’s body was buried along with gilded treasures.
   
   Answer:
   Tutankhamun, also known as King Tut, was buried along with gilded treasures for several reasons, including:

Burial customs: In ancient Egypt, it was common for pharaohs and other members of the elite to be buried with a wide variety of grave goods, including jewelry, weapons, clothing, and other items. These goods were believed to be necessary for the deceased in the afterlife, and they were often richly decorated with gold and other precious materials.

(include the following for long answer)

Wealth and status: Burying King Tut with gilded treasures was a way to demonstrate his wealth and status. The gold and other precious materials used to decorate the treasures were a symbol of his power and prestige, and they would have been seen as a way to ensure that he would continue to be powerful and prestigious in the afterlife.

Protection: The treasures were also believed to have protective power, both for the deceased and for the tomb. The treasures were believed to have magical powers that would protect the mummy and tomb from grave robbers and other dangers.

Rituals and beliefs: The ancient Egyptians believed that the deceased would need to use the objects in the afterlife, such as weapons to defend themselves, jewelry to adorn themselves, and so on. These objects were also believed to have the ability to connect the deceased with the gods, the gods were believed to be pleased by the gifts and would protect the deceased in return.

5. The boy king changed his name from Tutankhaten to Tutankhamun.
   
   Answer:
   Tutankhamun was part of the 18th dynasty of Egypt, which was a time of significant religious changes in Egypt. The pharaoh Akhenaten, who was Tutankhamun's father, had introduced a new form of monotheism in which the god Aten was the only god to be worshipped. The name Tutankhaten, which means "the living image of Aten", reflected this religious belief. However, after Akhenaten's death, the traditional polytheistic religion was restored and the name Tutankhamun, which means "the living image of Amun", reflected this change.

Question 2. 

1. List the deeds that led Ray Johnson to describe Akhenaten as “wacky”.
   
   Answer:
   Pharaoh Akhenaten, who ruled Egypt during the 18th dynasty, is known for his religious revolution, where he introduced a new form of monotheism in which the god Aten was the only god to be worshipped; this was a significant departure from the traditional polytheistic religion of Egypt, which had many gods and goddesses. He also built a new capital city, Akhetaten (now known as Amarna), in the desert to the east of Thebes, the traditional capital of Egypt. This move was also seen as a rejection of the traditional religious and political establishment. Akhenaten's reign also saw a significant change in the style of art, with a shift towards more realistic and naturalistic depictions of the human form, which was a departure from the traditional stylized figures seen in Egyptian art. He also suppressed the traditional gods and goddesses and the closure of their temples which caused a significant disruption to the religious and cultural life of the people.
   
   

2. What were the results of the CT scan?
   
   Answer:
   In 2005, a CT scan was performed on the mummy of King Tutankhamun to determine the cause of his death and to learn more about his health. The results of the scan revealed that King Tut had several health problems, including a congenital disorder called Klippel-Feil syndrome, a broken leg, infections in his chest and brain, and evidence of malaria. The combination of these conditions would have made it difficult for him to walk and weakened his immune system, making him more vulnerable to other diseases. The CT scan did not provide a clear cause of death, but it helped to fill in the gaps in historical records and to understand the life and death of the boy king.
   
   

3. List the advances in technology that have improved forensic analysis.
   
   Answer:
   Advances in technology have greatly improved forensic analysis by providing more accurate and efficient methods of identifying and analyzing evidence. Examples of technology that have improved forensic analysis include DNA analysis, fingerprint analysis, ballistics analysis, drug analysis, digital forensics, and facial recognition. These tools and techniques have helped investigators solve crimes and bring criminals to justice. As technology continues to evolve, new and more powerful tools will be developed to improve forensic analysis.
   
   

4. Explain the statement, “King Tut is one of the first mummies to be scanned — in death, as in life...”
   
   Answer:
   King Tutankhamun, also known as King Tut, was an Egyptian pharaoh who ruled around 1332-1323 BC. He is famous for his tomb being discovered nearly intact by Howard Carter in 1922. He is considered one of the first mummies to be scanned, as in 2005 a CT scan was performed on his mummy to determine the cause of his death and to learn more about his health. This was significant because it was one of the first times that a mummy was scanned using this technology.

The statement "in death, as in life, moving regally ahead of his countrymen" means that King Tut's mummy was scanned ahead of other mummies in Egypt, just like how he was ahead of his peers during his lifetime as a pharaoh. The use of the phrase "moving regally" emphasizes that King Tut was a powerful and respected leader in life, and in death he continues to be of interest and importance, leading the way for others to be examined in the same way.

Talking about the text

Discuss the following in groups of two pairs, each pair in a group taking opposite points of view. 

1. Scientific intervention is necessary to unearth buried mysteries.
   
   Answer:
   Scientific intervention, or the application of scientific methods and techniques, is often necessary to uncover and understand buried mysteries. This can include the use of tools such as radiocarbon dating, DNA analysis, and geological surveys to uncover and study ancient artifacts, fossils, and other physical evidence. Additionally, scientific models and simulations can be used to better understand and predict the behavior of complex systems, such as weather patterns and the movements of celestial bodies. By utilizing these and other scientific methods, researchers and scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the world around us, and uncover secrets that have been hidden for centuries.
   
   

2. Advanced technology gives us conclusive evidence of past events.
   
   Answer:
   Advanced technology has greatly improved our ability to gather and analyze evidence of past events. For example, the development of radiocarbon dating has allowed scientists to accurately determine the age of ancient artifacts and fossils. DNA analysis has also been used to reconstruct the evolutionary history of different species, as well as to identify the remains of individuals from the past. Other technologies, such as satellite imagery, LIDAR and Ground-penetrating radar, have enabled us to map and study ancient landscapes and architectural sites that would have been difficult or impossible to study otherwise.

Additionally, the use of computer simulations and models can provide insight into past events and processes. For example, climate models can be used to reconstruct past climate patterns, and numerical simulations can be used to study the formation and evolution of the universe.

Overall, advanced technology has played a significant role in helping us to better understand the past and to provide conclusive evidence of past events. However, it is important to note that the interpretation of this evidence is still subject to human bias and error, and multiple lines of evidence and independent verifications are needed for a solid conclusion.

3. Traditions, rituals and funerary practices must be respected.
   
   Answer:
   Traditions, rituals, and funerary practices are an important part of many cultures and communities, and they often reflect deeply held beliefs and values. It is important to respect these practices when studying or interacting with different cultures or communities, both as a matter of basic human respect and out of consideration for the feelings and beliefs of those who hold these practices sacred.

In terms of archaeology and other scientific research, it is important to be aware of and respectful of the funerary practices and rituals of different cultures. For example, when studying ancient burials, scientists should be mindful of the fact that these burials may be considered sacred or otherwise significant by the descendants of the people who were buried there. This means that scientists should take care to avoid disturbing or destroying these sites, and should work closely with members of the community to ensure that the research is conducted in a respectful and appropriate manner.

Similarly, when studying living cultures, it is important to be respectful of the traditions and rituals that are practiced by different communities. This includes being mindful of the fact that these practices may be considered sacred or private, and taking care to avoid interfering or disturbing them in any way.

Overall, it is important to remember that traditions, rituals, and funerary practices are an important and deeply meaningful part of many cultures and communities, and they should be respected as such.

4. Knowledge about the past is useful to complete our knowledge of the world we live in.
   
   Answer:
   Knowledge about the past is crucial for understanding the world we live in today. By studying the past, we can gain insight into the cultural, social, economic, and political systems that have shaped our world. This knowledge can help us to better understand the present and make more informed decisions about the future.

For example, studying ancient cultures can provide valuable insight into the origins of human civilization and the development of technology, art, and social structures. This knowledge can help us to understand the cultural and historical context of the societies we live in today, as well as to appreciate the diversity and richness of human experience.

Additionally, the study of past climate, environmental conditions and the changes that took place over time, provide crucial information to understand the current and future changes and to adapt accordingly. This knowledge can be used to mitigate the effects of climate change and to preserve our planet's resources for future generations.

In archaeology and other scientific fields, the study of the past also enables us to develop a deeper understanding of the natural world, including the evolution of life on Earth, the formation and history of our planet and the solar system, and the laws of physics and chemistry that govern the universe.

In conclusion, knowledge about the past is essential for understanding the present and the future. It helps us to appreciate the complexity and richness of the world around us, and to make more informed decisions about how to live our lives and shape our societies.

Class X - First Flight- Poem - For Anne Gregory by William Butler Yeats

 

Poem - For Anne Gregory by William Butler Yeats

About the Poet

William Butler Yeats was an Irish poet and nationalist born in Dublin. His ideas and works were influenced by the religious and national turmoil in Ireland. He loved Irish folklore. He embraced metaphysical philosophy Folklore and mysticism dominated his thoughts and poetry. He won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1923.

Central Idea of the Poem

Yeats is of the view that most people love others just because they attract them physically. The complexion of the skin and the colour of the hair are more important to us than the 'real' worth of a person. We rarely love people for themselves alone. Even the beautiful Anne Gregory is not liked or loved for her inner beauty or her rare qualities of head and heart but for her beautiful yellow hair. Shallow-minded people adore only physical beauty. We should look for spiritual beauty before falling in love with a lady. Physical beauty is just skin-deep. It is momentary. Unfortunately, most people are attracted by the colour of skin and hair. Only God can love a person for himself alone.

Summary of the Poem

1. Love for Yellow Hair: This poem of W.B. Yeats has been addressed to a young and beautiful lady named Anne Gregory. The physical charm of the young lady is irresistible. Her honey-coloured blonde hair falling on her ear easily attract the onlookers. The hair falling on the ears look like the ramparts or wide walls around a castle. However, it is difficult to say that a young man is thrown into despair and starts loving her only for 'herself alone'. The physical beauty of her hair is so irresistible that the lover doesn't even bother to know whether the young lady has internal beauty and possesses nobility of the soul.

2. Superficial Physical Appearance: Anne Gregory's response in the second stanza is quite expected. She wants to say that she can get hair dye of any kind or colour. It depends on her if she colours her hair brown, black or carrot colour. She explodes the myth of physical beauty. She asks why a young man should fall in love with her and sigh in despair only after seeing the colour of her hair. If at all, any young man shows his love for her, then, that love should be based on her merits She should be loved, not for her outward appearance but for her inner beauty or personality. Her character. personality and inner beauty must be the cause of attraction and not her yellow hair.

3. God's Ability to Look Inside: The poet resolves the conflict in the third stanza. The poet quotes a religious text to prove his point Men are men Humans will fall to physical attractions quite easily. It is quite possible for a young man to be attracted by the beauty of Anne Gregory's blonde hair. Only God has the ability to resist outwardly physical temptations Only God can judge a man or a woman by what he or she is or his or her merits Human beings, without God's strength, can't look beyond outward appearances and physical beauty.

Main Points of the Poem

1. The poem is addressed to a young and beautiful lady named Anne Gregory.

2. Her hair is honey-coloured or blonde

3. Every young man loves Anne just because of her beautiful hair

4. Her hair falling on her ears look like the ramparts surrounding a castle.

5. The poet says that no one would love Anne Gregory for 'herself alone"

6. No one cares for her inner beauty or the nobility of her soul.

7. Her outward appearance and her yellow hair are the only causes for her attraction

8. In the second stanza, the lady, Anne Gregory herself settles the issue.

9. She says that she is free to choose what colour she uses to dye her hair 

10. She can dye her hair brown or black or the colour of a carrot

11. Any young man should fall in love with her only after judging her own merits.

12. Her yellow hair or outwardly appearance should not make any young man to sigh for her in despair.

13. She should be loved for 'herself alone'.

14. In the last stanza, the poet resolves the issue.

15. The poet quotes a religious text.

16. It is beyond human beings not to be attracted by physical appearance or beauty.

17. Human beings can be easily swayed by beautiful yellow hair or outwardly appearance.

18. Only God has the ability to withstand the temptations of physical beauty.

19. Men, without God's strength, simply can't look beyond physical appearances.

NCERT TEXTBOOK QUESTIONS SOLVED

Thinking About the poem(page 141)

Question 1. 

What does the young man mean by "great honey-coloured/Ramparts at your ear?" Why does he say that young men are "thrown into despair" by them?

Answer:

The "great honey-coloured ramparts" in the poem "For Anne Gregory" by William Butler Yeats refers to Anne's blonde hair. The metaphor of the ramparts suggests that her hair is striking and impressive, like the fortifications of a castle.

The color honey-colored is likely a reference to the golden and warm color of her hair and the use of the word "ramparts" emphasizes the striking visual impact of her hair. And as to why he says that young men are "thrown into despair" by them, the metaphor is a way of expressing how captivating and beautiful Anne's hair is and how it affects those who see it.

 

Question 2. 

What colour is the young woman's hair? What does she say she can change it to? Why would she want to do so?

Answer:

The colour of the young woman's hair is golden. Her hair can be called 'blonde'. She says that she can change the colour of her hair according to her choice. She can dye the hair brown, black or carrot colour. She wants to show that outward appearances can easily be changed. A young man should not fall in love with her only after seeing her yellow hair or outward appearance. 

Question 3. 

Objects have qualities which make them desirable to others. Can you think of some objects (a car, a phone, a dress.....) and say what qualities make one object more desirable than another? Imagine you were trying to sell an object: what qualities would you emphasise? 

Answer:

When comparing objects, different people may value different qualities, but some common ones that can make an object more desirable than another include:

• A car: fuel efficiency, speed, luxury features, safety ratings, brand reputation

• A phone: camera quality, battery life, processing power, storage capacity, design

• A dress: fabric quality, style, fit, brand, durability

When trying to sell an object, the qualities that are emphasized would depend on the target market and what they value most. For example, if trying to sell a car to a consumer who values fuel efficiency, the salesperson would emphasize the car's fuel efficiency and its cost savings. If trying to sell a phone to a consumer who values photography, the salesperson would emphasize the phone's camera quality and the features it has for photography. If trying to sell a dress to a consumer who values style, the salesperson would emphasize the dress's design, the designer and the style that is in trend.

In general, the most desirable qualities of an object are those that are most useful, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing to the consumer, and that meet the consumer's needs.

A car is an easy way of personal transport. A phone is the easiest way of communication. Similarly, a dress can be used to make your personality more presentable before others. While selling an object, I will emphasize not only its appearance but also its inherent positive characteristics and features.

Question 4.

What about people? Do we love others because we like their qualities, whether physical or mental? Or is it possible to love someone "for themselves alone"? Are some people 'more lovable' than others? Discuss this question in pairs or in groups, considering points like the following:

1. a parent or caregiver's love for a newborn baby, for a mentally or physically challenged child, for a clever child or a prodigy

2. the public's love for a film star, a sportsperson, a politician, or a social worker. 

3. your love for a friend, or brother or sister. 

4. your love for a pet, and the pet's love for you.

Answer:

It is possible to both love someone for their qualities, whether physical or mental, and to love someone "for themselves alone." People can be attracted to certain qualities in others, but ultimately it is the person as a whole that is loved.

A parent or caregiver's love for a newborn baby is often based on the unconditional love and bond that is formed from the moment the baby is born. This type of love is often independent of the baby's physical or mental characteristics and is based on the bond and responsibility of being a parent.

The public's love for a film star, sportsperson, politician, or social worker can be based on both their qualities and their actions. For example, a film star may be loved for their acting ability and good looks, while a social worker may be loved for their selfless actions and dedication to helping others.

Similarly, one's love for a friend, brother, or sister can be based on both their qualities and their actions, as well as the shared history and bond that exists between them.

As for a pet, the love for it can be based on their companionship, loyalty, and affection. The pet's love for its owner can also be based on these factors and the bond that is formed through care and attention.

It can be said that people can be "more lovable" in the sense that certain people may possess qualities that are more attractive to certain individuals. However, it is important to note that the concept of "lovability" is subjective and can vary from person to person.

Question 5.

You have perhaps concluded that people are not objects to be valued for their qualities or riches rather than for themselves. But elsewhere Yeats asks the question: How can we separate the dancer from the dance? Is it possible to separate the person himself or herself from how the person looks, sounds, walks and so on? Think of how you or a friend or member of your family has changed over the years. Has your relationship also changed? In what way?

Answer:

It is true that people are not objects to be valued solely for their qualities or riches, but rather for themselves as individuals. However, it can be difficult to separate a person from their physical and mental characteristics, as these are integral parts of who they are.

In Yeats' poem, "How can we separate the dancer from the dance?" he is asking how we can separate the person from their actions and appearance. He is suggesting that it is difficult to love the person from how they look, sound, and walk, as these are all integral parts of their identity.

As people change over the years, their physical and mental characteristics change as well, and this can affect relationships. For example, as a person ages, their appearance may change and this can affect how others perceive them. Similarly, as a person's mental or physical health changes, their behavior and actions may change, which can affect how others interact with them.

It's important to remember that people are complex and multi-faceted, and that our relationship with them can change over time as we get to know them better and as they change. It's important to remember that one's worth is not based on their physical or mental characteristics but on their humanity, and that's what truly makes them valuable.