Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative with Solutions and marking scheme Set 10 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative Set 10 with Solutions
Time Allowed: 3 hours
Maximum Marks: 80
General Instructions:
- 15-minute prior reading time allotted for Q-paper reading.
- The Question Paper contains FOUR sections-Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Grammar and Literature Textbook.
- Attempt questions based on specific instructions for each part.
Section- A
Reading Skills (22 Marks)
Question 1.
Read the following passage
1. People have been playing chess for over 500 years. The chess we play today came from Europe. Chess is a two-player game. One player uses the white pieces. The other uses the black pieces. Each piece moves in a special way. One piece is called the king and each player has one. The players take turns moving their pieces. If a player lands on a piece, he or she takes it. The game ends when a player loses his or her king. There are a few more rules, but these are the basics.
2. The players of chess believe that it makes the mind stronger. Good chess players use their brains. They take their time. They think about what will happen next. These skills are useful in life and in chess. Chess is like a workout for the brain.
3. You don’t always have lots of time to think while playing chess. There is a type of chess with short time limits. It’s called blitz chess. In blitz chess, each player gets ten minutes to use for the whole game. Your clock runs during your turn. You hit the time clock after your move. This stops your clock. It also starts the other player’s clock. If you run out of time, you lose. Games of blitz chess are fast-paced.
4. Chess is not just for people. Computers have been playing chess since the 1970s. At first, they did not play well. They made mistakes. As time went on, they grew stronger. In 1997, a computer beat the best player in the world for the first time. It was a computer called Deep blue. Deep Blue was big. It took up a whole room. By 2006 a cell phone could beat the best players in the world. Chess surely has come a long way. Don’t you think so?
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above.
(i) What happens when a player in chess lands on an opponent’s piece? [1]
(A) The game ends.
(B) The piece is removed from the board.
(C) The player loses their next turn.
(D) The player wins the game.
Answer:
(B) The piece is removed from the board.
Explanation:
When a player in chess lands on an opponent’s piece, that piece is removed from the board to signify the capture.
(ii) Explain the significance of chess as a mental workout, as mentioned in the passage. How does playing chess strengthen the mind? [2]
Answer:
Chess is like a workout for the brain because it requires players to think, strategize, and plan ahead. It strengthens the mind by improving skills such as critical thinking, decision-making, and concentration, which are valuable not only in chess but also in life.
(iii) Arrange the following events in chronological order: [1]
(A) Introduction of blitz chess with short time limits
(B) Computers playing chess since the 1970s
(C) A computer called Deep Blue beating the world’s best player in 1997
(D) Chess originating in Europe over 500 years ago
Answer:
1. D. Chess originating in Europe over 500 years ago
2. B. Computers playing chess since the 1970s
3. C. A computer called Deep Blue beating the world’s best player in 1997
4. A. Introduction of blitz chess with short time limits
(iv) Describe how chess has evolved with the advent of computer play, from the early days to modern times. How have computers influenced the game of chess? [2]
Answer:
In the early days, computers played chess poorly and made mistakes. Over time, they became stronger players, and in 1997, a computer called Deep Blue beat the world’s best player. By 2006, even a cell phone could defeat the best human players. Computers have significantly advanced the game of chess by providing strong opponents for human players and enabling the development of sophisticated chess playing algorithms.
(v) What does “blitz chess” refer to in the context of the passage? [1]
Answer:
‘Blitz chess’ refers to a type of chess with short time limits where each player has only ten minutes to make all their moves for the entire game. It is a fastpaced version of chess.
(vi) Complete the sentence appropriately.
The objective of chess as stated in the passage is ………. [1]
Answer:
the game ends when a player loses his or her king.
(vii) By 2006 a cell phone could beat the best players in the world. This suggests that ……………… [1]
(A) chess players had become less skilled
(B) cell phone technology had advanced significantly
(C) computers were no longer interested in chess
(D) Deep Blue was the only computer capable of winning against humans
Answer:
(B) cell phone technology had advanced significantly
Explanation:
The statement indicates that by 2006, cell phone technology had advanced to the point where they could compete effectively in chess.
(viii) Substitute the underlined word in the following sentence with a word/ phrase from the passage, that means the same. [1]
The game concludes when a player loses his or her king.
Answer:
end
Explanation:
The game ends when a player loses his or her king.
(ix) State whether the given statement is True or False: [1]
Chess has been played for over 500 years, and it originated in Asia.
Answer:
False
Explanation:
Chess has been played for over 500 years, but it originated in India, not Asia.
(x) Identify the name of the computer that beat the best player in the world for the first time in 1997, as mentioned in the passage. [1]
Answer:
Deep Blue was the first computer to beat the best player in the world.
Question 2.
Read the following table displaying the details of various rockets/ satellites.
Rocket/ |
Scientist Associated |
Organisation | Payload Used | Year of Launch | Destination |
Discoveries Made |
Chandrayaan -1 |
Dr. K.
Radhakrishnan |
ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) | Moon Impact Probe, Moon Impact Probe | 2008 | Moon (Lunar Orbit) | Water ice on the Moon, mapping of lunar surface. |
Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) |
Dr. A. S. Kiran Kumar | ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) | Mars Color Camera, Methane Sensor | 2013 | Mars (Mars Orbit) | Detection of methane on Mars, studying Martian atmosphere. |
GSAT-6A | Dr. Vikram Sarabhai | ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) | C-band and Ku-band transponders |
2018 | Earth (Geostationary Orbit) | Enhanced communication capabilities in rural and remote areas |
Cartosat-2 | Dr. U. R. Rao | ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) | High-resolution Earth imaging camera | 2007 | Earth (Low Earth Orbit) | High-quality satellite imagery for cartography, urban planning, and infrastructure development. |
RISAT-1 | Dr. A. EJ. Abdul Kalam | ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) | Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) | 2012 | Earth (Polar Orbit) | All-weather, day- and-night Earth observation for agriculture, forestry, and disaster management. |
Answer the following questions, based on the table above.
(i) Describe the primary objective of the Chandrayaan-1 mission and its significance for India’s space exploration program. [2]
Answer:
The primary objective of the Chandrayaan-1 mission was to explore the Moon. Its significance lies in its discovery of water ice on the lunar surface, a crucial finding for future lunar missions and potential lunar colonisation.
(ii) What was the purpose of the GSAT-6A satellite mentioned in the table? [1]
(A) Earth imaging
(B) Mars exploration
(C) Enhanced communication
(D) Asteroid observation
Answer:
(C) Enhanced communication
Explanation:
GSAT-6A was introduced to establish enhanced communication capabilities in rural and remote areas.
(iii) Explain how the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) contributed to our understanding of Mars and its atmosphere. [2]
Answer:
The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) contributed to our understanding of Mars by detecting methane in its atmosphere. This discovery has implications for the possibility of past or present life on the Red Planet.
(iv) “Chandrayaan-1 : Moon :: RISAT-1 : ……………….. [1]
Answer:
Chandrayaan-1 : Moon :: RISAT-1 : Earth.
(v) How do the objectives of Cartosat-2 and RISAT-1 differ, and how does this reflect their roles in Earth observation? [1]
Answer:
Cartosat-2 is primarily focused on high-resolution Earth imaging for cartography and urban planning. In contrast, RISAT-1 is designed for all-weather, day-and-night Earth observation, particularly for agriculture, forestry, and disaster management.
(vi) The Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) played a crucial role in ……………… [1]
Answer:
Studying Mars’ atmosphere, especially the detection of methane, which has implications for understanding the potential habitability of the planet.
(vii) What significant contribution did RISAT-l make in the context of Earth observation, and how does it benefit disaster management and agriculture? 1
(A) RISAT-1 provided real-time weather data for crop planning.
(B) RISAT-1 offered high-resolution images for urban development.
(C) RISAT-1 facilitated global communication networks.
Answer:
(A) RISAT-1 provided real-time weather data for crop planning.
(viii) Match the following 1
Satellites/Rockets: Scientist Associated:
1. Chandrayaan-1 A. Dr. K. Radhakrishnan
2. Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) B. Dr. U. R. Rao
3. GSAT-6A C. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai
4. Cartosat-2 D. Dr. A. S. Kiran Kumar
5. RISAT-1 E. Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Answer:
Chandrayaan-1 – A. Dr. K. Radhakrishnan
Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) – D. Dr. A. S. Kiran Kumar
GSAT-6A – C. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai
Cartosat-2 – B. Dr. U. R. Rao
RISAT-1 – E. Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Section- B
Writing Skills (22 Marks)
Question 3.
As Dvija of Class X, Head Boy/Head Girl, Vijay Path Public School, Patna write an email in not more than 50 words to the principal of your neighbouring school Sacred Hearts School, Patna inviting them to send participants in an inter-school science fair competition being organised by your school to celebrate the birthday of CV Raman. Use the following format. [3]
From:
To:
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 3 September 20XX 03:07 PM
Subject:
Answer:
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 3 September 20XX, 3:07 p.m.
Subject: Invitation to Participate in Inter-School Science Fair
Dear Principal,
I hope this email finds you well. As the Head Girl of Vijay Path Public School, Patna, I am delighted to extend an invitation to your esteemed institution to participate in our upcoming inter-school science fair competition. We are organising this event to celebrate the birthday of the renowned scientist, CV Raman.
Your school’s participation would enhance the academic spirit of the competition and contribute to its success. We look forward to your positive response.
Warm regards
Yours sincerely
Dvija
Head Girl
Question 4.
Write a factual description, in not more than 100 words of someone who has made significant contributions to the tech industry or who has developed groundbreaking technologies. [4]
Answer:
Elon Musk, a visionary entrepreneur and engineer, has made extraordinary contributions to the tech industry. As the founder and CEO of SpaceX, he revolutionized space exploration by developing reusable rockets, drastically reducing the cost of reaching orbit. Musk’s electric vehicle company, Tesla, pioneered electric car adoption with cutting edge innovations in battery technology and autonomous driving. His work on the Hyperloop and Neuralink further exemplifies his commitment to pushing technological boundaries. Musk’s relentless pursuit of sustainable energy and interplanetary colonization has left an indelible mark on the tech world, inspiring advancements that will shape our future.
Question 5.
(a) You are Rajeev/Ragini, the Head Chef, of Mansarovar, Hyderabad, and you have received a shipment of ingredients from your supplier, but some of the items are spoiled or past their expiration date. Write a letter of complaint in 120 words to the supplier, M/s Star Suppliers detailing the issues with the shipmentÿand requesting a resolution. [7]
OR
(b) Though there is a movement like the ‘Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan’ and the enrolling of underprivileged children in schools, there are still many children, like the one in the picture, who do not go to school, rather they have never even seen a school. It is indeed disturbing. You decide to write a letter to the editor of a newspaper expressing your views and the steps to be taken. Take ideas from the MCB unit ‘Education’. Write a letter in about 120 words.
Answer:
(a) Mansarovar
Hyderabad
17 September 20XX
M/s Star Suppliers
Mangalore
Dear Sir
Subject: Complaint Regarding Spoiled and Expired Ingredients
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am writing to express my concern regarding our recent shipment of ingredients from your esteemed company, M/s Star Suppliers. As the Head Chef of Mansarovar in Hyderabad, we rely on the quality and freshness of ingredients to provide exceptional dining experiences to our valued customers.
However, upon receiving the shipment on [Date], we discovered that several items were spoiled or past their expiration date. This included [List of Affected Items]. This situation has not only caused inconvenience but has also affected our ability to maintain the high standards of cuisine that our patrons expect.
We kindly request your immediate attention to this matter and a prompt resolution. We expect either a replacement of the spoiled items or a refund for the affected items.
We value our long-standing business relationship with M/s Star Suppliers and hope for a swift resolution to this issue. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Contact Information] to discuss this matter further.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Rajiv
Head Chef
Mansarovar
Hyderabad
OR
(b) 87A Saket Colony
Agra
25 October 20XX
The Editor
The Times of India
New Delhi
Sir
Subject: Educating the Underprivileged
Through the columns of your reputed newspaper, I wish to draw your attention towards the movement ‘Sarvashiksha Abhiyan’ which aims at providing education to all children. Even the act RTE-Right to Education ensures education for all children between the ages of four to fourteen. However, these movements and actsare not effectively implemented anywhere especially among the underprivileged class. There are still many children who do not go to school. They either work as domestic labourers or work in factories, dhabas, etc. It is disturbing to note that our government’s plans are not bearing any fruit. It is all because of the lack of awareness about these kind of movements.
We all need the help of print media as well as electronic media to spread the message of awareness to the masses. The underprivileged children must be made to realise that they have the right to get an education. So, they must go to school. The foremost thing is to discourage child-labour so as to give these children a bright future. I hope you will pay attention to this noble cause and publish it in your newspaper.
Thanking you
Yours sincerely
Siddharth Singh
Question 6.
(a) Around you, you see people running behind money and materialistic happiness which causes a lot of stress in the people. As Chandan/Arya of class X, write an article in 150 for school magazine emphasising the importance of living a balanced life away from materialistic distractions.
Cues
I. What does it mean to lead a balanced life, and why is it essential for our overall well-being?
II. How has the relentless pursuit of money and materialistic pleasures impacted our mental health and created a stress-ridden society?
III. What role do societal pressures and peer influence play in pushing individuals towards materialism?
IV. Are there any real-life examples of people who have found happiness and contentment by prioritizing experiences and relationships over material possessions?
V How can we strike a balance between achieving our financial goals and nurturing our emotional and mental health? [8]
OR
(b) Whenever our nation faces a threat or some major calamity happens, don’t we all stand together with a sense of emotional oneness to fight against evil forces and unnatural situations? Write an article for your school magazine to emphasise the spirit of unity in your nation. (150 words)
Cues
I. Rescue
II. Relief
III. Rehabilitation
IV. United we serve
Answer:
(a) Striking a Balance: The Pursuit of True Happiness -Arya, Class X
In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, it’s evident that many people are relentlessly chasing after money and materialistic happiness. This pursuit, however, often comes at a significant cost – stress, anxiety, and a sense of emptiness. I’d like to highlight the pressing importance of living a balanced life that steers us away from the distractions of materialism and guides us toward genuine happiness and fulfilment.
While financial stability is crucial, it should never be the sole focus of our existence. The ceaseless pursuit of wealth can turn into an insatiable thirst, leaving us perpetually dissatisfied. It’s essential to recognize that material possessions, while providing comfort and convenience, can never guarantee lasting happiness. True contentment arises from nurturing our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Living a balanced life entails finding harmony between our professional and personal domains. It means carving out time for self-care, family, and friends while pursuing hobbies and passions that ignite our souls. By prioritizing experiences over possessions, we create lasting memories and connections that money can’t buy. Furthermore, as we invest in our personal growth and practice gratitude, we unlock a deeper, more profound form of happiness that isn’t dependent on external factors.
Mindfulness is another key aspect of balanced living. Instead of fixating on the past or worrying incessantly about the future, mindfulness encourages us to savour the present moment. By immersing ourselves in the now, we develop a profound appreciation for life’s small pleasures, fostering gratitude and contentment.
In conclusion, it’s imperative for all of us to pause and reflect on our priorities. Money and material possessions have their place, but they should never eclipse the importance of our well-being and relationships. Let’s remember that genuine happiness emerges when we lead balanced lives, nurturing our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves while forging meaningful connections with others. By embracing this approach, we can transform our lives into ones defined not by materialistic pursuits, but by the pursuit of profound contentment and genuine fulfilment.
OR
(b) United We Serve: The Unbreakable Spirit of Unity in Our Nation -By Akansha
In times of crisis, our nation’s unity shines like a beacon of hope. When confronted with threats or calamities, we set aside our differences and unite with a sense of emotional oneness to combat evil forces and tackle unnatural situations.
The spirit of unity is most evident during rescue and relief efforts. Regardless of our backgrounds or beliefs, we come together to help those in need. It’s heartening to witness the selfless acts of ordinary citizens and first responders, all working towards a common goal – providing solace and support to those affected.
But our unity doesn’t end with rescue and relief; it extends to rehabilitation. We rebuild together, stronger and more resilient. Communities band together to restore what was lost, demonstrating that adversity can’t break our collective spirit.
“United we serve” is not just a motto; it’s a way of life. Our nation’s unity is a source of strength, resilience, and inspiration. It reminds us that when we stand together, we can overcome any challenge. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to each other and to our great nation.
In the face of adversity, our unity shines brightly, proving that together, we are invincible. This spirit of unity is a treasure we must cherish and nurture, for it is the very essence of our nation’s strength and resilience.
Section- C
Grammar (10 Marks)
Complete the tasks A-C, as directed.
Question 7.
(A) Fill in the blanks with appropriate option from those in the brackets. [3]
A doctor had the habit of talking to the trees (i) …………. (on/in//with) the roadside as he took (ii) ……………… (my/his/her) walks in the evening. He would (iii) …………… (bend/bended/bending) to kiss the trees lovingly and whisper kind words to them This was an odd but beautiful sight.
Answer:
(i) on
(ii) his
(iii) bend
(B) In the following table, one word has been omitted in each line. In your answer sheets, remember to write the missing word along with the word that comes before and after it, as shown below. [4]
Word before | Omission | Word after | ||
The Great Wall of China a series of fortifications made |
China |
is |
a |
|
i | stone, brick, tamped earth, wood, and other materials. It was | |||
ii | built along northern borders of China to protect against invasions. The wall | |||
iii | stretches over 13,000 miles and the longest wall in the world. It | |||
iv | has estimated that over 10 million people visit the Great Wall every year. |
Answer:
Word before Omission Word after
(i) made of stone
(ii) along the northern
(iii) and is the
(iv) has been estimated
(C) Do as directed
(a) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence. [1]
(i) Ravish: Have you watched the new movie?
Hari: Yes! It was amazing, we went to watch it this Sunday.
Ravish: I / also / it / watched / yes / it / a great / watch / was
Answer:
Yes. I have also watched it. It was a great watch.
(b) Report the dialogues to complete the paragraphs that follow. [2]
Vijay: Why are you looking so down?
Anand: I had a fight with my partner, Vijay.
Vijay: Don’t worry, we can talk about it and find a solution. When did the fight happen?
Anand: Yesterday, Vijay.
Vijay asked Anand ………….. (ii). Anand replied that they had a fight with their partner. Vijay assured Anand that …………….. (iii) and find a solution. Vijay further asked when the fight happened, to which Anand replied that it was yesterday.
Answer:
(ii) why they were looking so down
(iii) they could talk about it
Section- D
Literature Textbook (26 Marks)
Question 8.
Read the given excerpts and answer the questions briefly, for ANY TWO excerpts, of the three, given.
(A) When wasteful wars shall statues overturn,
And broils root out the work of masonry,
Nor Mars his sword nor war’s quickfire shall burn
The living record of your memory.
(i) What is the central theme of these lines? [1]
Answer:
The central theme of these lines is the enduring power of memory and how it can outlast even the most destructive forces such as war and conflict.
(ii) What literary devices are used in these lines? [1]
Answer:
The literary devices used in these lines include personification (Mars, the Roman god of war, is depicted as wielding a sword), metaphor (the “living record” of memory is compared to something that cannot be destroyed by fire or sword), and alliteration (the repetition of the “w” sound in “wasteful wars” and “work of masonry”).
(iii) What is the significance of the phrase “living record of your memory”? [1]
Answer:
The phrase “living record of your memory” refers to the idea that memories can endure and continue to exist even after physical monuments and records have been destroyed. It suggests that the impact a person has on others can outlast even the most destructive forces.
(iv) How do these lines convey a sense of hope? [1]
Answer:
These lines convey a sense of hope by suggesting that even in the face of war and destruction, there are things that cannot be destroyed. The “living record” of memory is presented as something that will endure, providing a sense of continuity and resilience.
(B) ‘Gainst death and all obvious enmity
Shall you pace forth; your praise shall still find room,
Even in the eyes of all posterity
That wear this world out to the ending doom.
(i) What is the central theme of these lines? [1]
Answer:
The central theme of these lines is the enduring power of praise and how it can outlast even death and enmity.
(ii) What literary devices are used in these lines? [1]
Answer:
The literary devices used in these lines include personification (death and enmity are depicted as entities that can be opposed), metaphor (praise is described as something that can “pace forth” and find room), and alliteration (the repetition of the “p” sound in “pace forth” and “praise”).
(iii) What is the significance of the phrase ‘your praise shall still find room’? [1]
Answer:
The phrase “your praise shall still find room” suggests that even in the face of opposition and adversity, praise and recognition will endure and continue to be acknowledged. It implies that the positive impact a person has on others will not be forgotten.
(iv) How do these lines convey a sense of hope? [1]
Answer:
These lines convey a sense of hope by suggesting that even in the face of death and enmity, there are things that cannot be destroyed. Praise is presented as something that will endure, providing a sense of continuity and resilience.
(C) “The voice of my education said to me
He must be killed,
For in Sicily the black, black snakes are innocent,
The gold are venomous.
And voices in me said, if you were a man
You would take a stick and break him now, and finish him off.”
(i) What is the conflict presented in these lines? [1]
Answer:
The conflict presented in these lines is between the speaker’s education and their inner voices. The speaker’s education tells them that the snake must be killed because it is venomous, while their inner voices urge them to take action and kill the snake if they were a man.
(ii) What do the black and gold snakes represent in these lines? [1]
Answer:
In these lines, the black and gold snakes represent innocence and danger, respectively. The speaker’s education tells them that in Sicily, black snakes are innocent while gold snakes are venomous.
(iii) How does the speaker’s education influence their actions? [1]
Answer:
The speaker’s education influences their actions by providing them with information about the nature of the snakes in Sicily. This information leads the speaker to believe that the snake must be killed because it is venomous.
(iv) What role do the inner voices play in these lines? [1]
Answer:
The inner voices in these lines represent the speaker’s inner conflict and urge them to take action. They challenge the speaker’s masculinity by suggesting that if they were a man, they would take a stick and kill the snake.
Question 9.
Answer ANY EIVE of the following six questions in about 30- 40 words each
(i) To some extent the nightingale was herself responsible for her downfall and death. Comment. (The frog and the Nightingale) [2]
Answer:
The nightingale was a brainless creature who got carried away by the frog’s appreciation. She could not guess that she was being fooled by the frog. (a) her strong desire for recognition and fame.
(ii) Why did the poet throw a log at the snake? [2]
Answer:
The poet threw a log at the snake because the voice of education and social conventions made him think that the snake which is golden- brown in color, is venomous and must be killed. Moreover, The poet wanted to stop the snake from disappearing into the hole or make it run.
(iii) What does Henry mean by ‘I suppose it’s in the family’? [2]
Answer:
Henry Slater uttered the words. I suppose it’s in the family when Amelia calls her sister Elizabeth heartless and insensitive, she also feels that Elizabeth is selfish and greedy. Henry, by saying these words, meant that it is not only Elizabeth but Amelia is also of the same nature.
(iv) What are the three things that grandfather plans to do on next Monday? [2]
Answer:
Grandfather plans to do three things on next Monday. He decides to consult a lawyer and alter his will in favour of Mrs. John Shorrocks. Secondly, he decides to marry Mrs. Shorrocks and third, he has to pay his insurance premium which is due.
(v) Why did Mrs. Packletide decide to give a party in honour of Loona Bimberton? What did she plan to present Loona on her birthday? [2]
Answer:
Mrs. Packletide’s only aim in life was to surpass Loona Bimberton, who was very popular for her adventurous and exciting deeds. By giving a party in her honour, Mrs. Packletide wanted to show her that she had done a more adventurous and exciting thing by shooting a tiger. She even wanted to gift a tiger-claw brooch to Loona on her birthday just to outshine her.
(vi) Prove that Miss Mebbin had a protective elder sisterly attitude towards the money spent by Mrs. Packletide. [2]
Answer:
Miss Mebbin, the paid companion of Mrs. Packletide, had a protective elder sisterly attitude towards money. She was a great lover of money. Many a times she had saved roubles, centimes and francs by not tipping. She had asked Mrs. Packletide also to pay less to the villagers as the tiger was quite old and if he didn’t touch the goat, she need not pay for the goat as well.
Question 10.
Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 150 words.
(A) ‘Pride goes before a fall.’ Justify the statement on basis of the chapter Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger. [8]
OR
(B) ‘Only the bearer knows where the shoe pinches.’ Elucidate the statement with reference to the story ‘The Letter’.
Answer:
(A) The statement “Pride goes before a fall” is indeed justified through the character of Mrs. Packletide in the chapter “Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger.” This story by Saki (H.H. Munro) exemplifies how excessive pride and vanity can ultimately lead to a person’s downfall.
Mrs. Packletide, a woman belonging to the upper class of society, is consumed by her desire to outdo her rival, Loona Bimberton. Her vanity drives her to attempt a dangerous and reckless act: killing a tiger during a hunting expedition, solely to make herself the center of attention and satisfy her ego.
However, her quest for superiority ends up in misery. She becomes a subject of mockery, as her motives are transparent to those around her. Moreover, she has to pay a substantial amount of money to arrange the tiger-hunting trip, which ultimately leads to financial losses. This highlights the consequences of her excessive pride and vanity.
The situation worsens when she is blackmailed by Miss Mebbin, who threatens to reveal the truth about the staged tiger hunt. Mrs. Packletide’s pride has left her vulnerable to exploitation, adding to her downfall.
In conclusion, the character of Mrs. Packletide in “Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger” exemplifies the age-old adage that “Pride goes before a fall.” Her insatiable vanity and desire to overshadow others lead to financial losses and her vulnerability to blackmail, ultimately resulting in her downfall. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of excessive pride and the pursuit of superficial social status.
OR
(B) The statement “Only the bearer knows where the shoe pinches” is profoundly illustrated in the story “The Letter.” This phrase implies that we should always respect and empathize with the feelings and experiences of others because only they truly understand the depth of their pain or suffering.
In the story, Coachman Ali’s daughter gets married and leaves him. Initially, Ali is portrayed as a clever hunter who doesn’t seem to grasp the meaning of love and separation. However, when he experiences the pain of separation from his daughter, he comprehends the depths of his feelings, which he had previously overlooked.
As Ali shares his story with the people at the post office, they laugh and mock him, including the Postmaster, who treats him rudely and calls him a “pest.” This treatment reflects a lack of empathy and understanding on their part.
However, when the Postmaster himself faces the pain of separation from his own family, he realizes his mistake. He understands the depth of Ali’s suffering and regrets his earlier behavior. Now, he wishes to help Ali.
This transformation in the Postmaster’s attitude underscores the significance of the phrase. It highlights that one should never disrespect or disregard the feelings of others, as only the person experiencing a particular pain or emotion can truly understand its impact. ‘The Letter’ emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion, teaching us that we should always consider the feelings of others before passing judgment or making assumptions about their experiences.