Students can access the CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative with Solutions and marking scheme Set 4 will help students in understanding the difficulty level of the exam.
CBSE Sample Papers for Class 10 English Communicative Set 4 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. Orangutans require less food than humans. When they do eat, orangutans nibble mostly on ripe fruit, along with smaller portions of leaves and seeds. Even in captivity, this diet doesn’t diminish an orangutan’s energy. They wake up early, after a long night’s sleep, spending the day socialising, exploring enclosures, and playing games with researchers. These activities collectively amount to the exercise level of humans in demanding agricultural lifestyles.
2. In the wild, orangutans inhabit the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra, facing highly variable and unpredictable food availability. Similar to fresh garden fruit, their sustenance alternates between feast and famine. However, this comes with a drawback: their low energy levels limit growth and reproduction. Consequently, orangutans exhibit slow development and reproduction, posing an evolutionary risk as they might not survive to pass on their genes. In contrast, human mothers can bear children every two to four years, whereas wild orangutans reproduce only every seven to eight years.
3. Orangutans are among the most intelligent primates; they use a variety of sophisticated tools and construct elaborate sleeping nests each night from branches and foliage. These apes have been extensively studied for their learning abilities. There may even be distinctive cultures within populations. Both orangutan species are considered to be endangered, with the Sumatran orangutans being critically endangered. Human activities have caused severe decline in the populations and ranges of both species. Threats to wild orangutan populations include poaching, habitat destruction, and the illegal pet trade. Several conservation and rehabilitation organisations are dedicated to the survival of orangutans in the wild.
4. We will lose much information about our closest relatives and our own evolutionary history if we let them get extinct.
Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:
(i) Orangutans primarily consume: [1]
(A) Meat and vegetables
(B) Ripe fruit, leaves, and seeds
(C) Processed foods
(D) Dairy products
Answer:
(B) Ripe fruit, leaves, and seeds
Explanation:
Orangutans require less food than humans, thus only consume ripe fruits, seeds and leaves when they do consume food.
(ii) Explain how the slow growth and reproduction of orangutans could be evolutionarily risky. [2]
Answer:
Orangutans’ slow growth and reproduction increase the risk of not passing on their genes due to their vulnerability to environmental changes and threats. Their longer reproductive interval reduces the chances of genetic propagation.
(iii) Arrange the following events in the order they are mentioned in the passage: [1]
(A) Orangutans’ intelligence and tool use
(B) Threats to wild orangutan populations
(C) Orangutans’ daily activities and diet
(D) Comparison of orangutan and human reproduction patterns
Answer:
The correct order is:
(c) Orangutans’ daily activities and diet
(d) Comparison of orangutan and human reproduction patterns
(a) Orangutans’ intelligence and tool use
(b) Threats to wild orangutan populations
(iv) What is the main reason orangutans are active even with their low-energy diet? [1]
(A) Their high metabolism
(B) Their natural agility
(C) Their engaging social activities
(D) Their adaptation to captivity
Answer:
(C) Their engaging social activities
Explanation:
Orangutans stay active due to engaging social activities, like interaction with researchers and exploring, compensating for their low-energy diet in captivity.
(v) Which word from the passage refers to “a situation in which there is either an abundance or scarcity of something”? [2]
Answer:
Feast and famine
(vi) What is the primary reason for the decline in orangutan populations and ranges? [1]
(A) Natural disasters
(B) Climate change
(C) Human activities
(D) Disease outbreaks
Answer:
(C) Human activities
Explanation:
The primary reason for the decline in orangutan populations and ranges is human activities, including habitat destruction, poaching, and the illegal pet trade.
(vii) Orangutans’ slow growth and reproduction are attributed to their …………… . (Complete the sentence based on the inference of the passage.) [1]
Answer:
Low energy levels
(viii) Explain why the low energy levels of orangutans pose an evolutionary risk. [1]
Answer:
The low energy levels of orangutans hinder their growth and reproduction, making them vulnerable to environmental changes and threats. This slow pace may lead to the failure of passing on their genes.
(ix) State whether the following is True or False:
Both species of orangutans are endangered, with Sumatran orangutans classified as critically endangered. [1]
Answer:
True
Explanation:
Both orangutan species are endangered, with Sumatran orangutans facing a more critical status as “critically endangered” due to severe threats.
(x) After which paragraph of the passage, would the following paragraph most likely be placed?
Orangutans hold a special place in the study of evolution and primatology due to their remarkable genetic and behavioural similarities to humans. Their research has illuminated complex social behaviours, tool usage, and problem-solving skills, providing valuable insights into our own evolutionary past. Protecting orangutans from extinction is not just about preserving biodiversity but also safeguarding the invaluable knowledge they provide about our closest relatives and our role in the natural world. [1]
Answer:
After paragraph 2
Explanation:
It will be placed after Paragraph 2 because Orangutans’ genetic and behavioural parallels to humans offer unique insights into our evolutionary history, making their conservation vital for advancing our understanding of primatology and the inter connectedness of life.
Question 2.
Read the table given below and answer the questions that follow:
Name | Motto | Spending (INR) | Agenda of Election | Mode of Campaign | Supporters |
Aryan | “For the people” | 10,000,000 | Education reform | Social media | Youth |
Priya | “Progress for all” | 15,000,000 | Infrastructure development | Rallies and speeches | Business community |
Rohit | “A better future” | 20,000,000 | Job creation and economic growth | Door-to-door campaigning | Working class |
Sunita | “Equality and justice” | 25,000,000 | Social welfare programs | TV and radio ads | Women and minorities |
Meera | “Sustainable development” | 30,000,000 | Environmental protection and green energy | Flyers and posters | Environmentalists |
Answer the questions based on the above table:
(i) Describe the agenda of election and mode of campaign for Aryan and Priya according to the table. [2]
Answer:
According to the table, Aryan’s agenda ofelectionis education reform and his mode of campaign is social media. Priya’s agenda of election is infrastructure development and her mode of campaign is rallies and speeches.
(ii) Which contestant has the motto “A better future”? [1]
(A) Aryan
(B) Priya
(C) Rohit
(D) Sunita
Answer:
(C) Rohit
(iii) Explain how the spending and supporters of Rohit and Sunita compare according to the table. [2]
Answer:
According to the table, Rohit’s spending is 20,000,000 INR and his supporters are the working class. Sunita’s spending is 25,000,000 INR and her supporters are
women and minorities.
(iv) Aryan : “For the people”:: Meera : ………… [1]
Answer:
Aryan : “For the people” :: Meera : “Sustainable development”
(v) Which contestant has the highest spending according to the table? [1]
Answer:
According to the table, Meera has the highest spending at 30,000,000 INR.
(vi) According to the table, the agenda of election for Meera is ………. [1]
Answer:
According to the table, the agenda of election for Meera is environmental protection and green energy.
(vii) Explain how the motto, spending, and supporters of Rohit are represented in the table. [1]
(A) Rohit’s motto is “A better future”, his spending is 20,000,000 INR, and his supporters are the working class.
(B) Rohit’s motto is “Equality and justice”, his spending is 25,000,000 INR, and his supporters are women and minorities.
(C) Rohit’s motto is “Sustainable development”, his spending is 30,000,000 INR, and his supporters are environmentalists.
Answer:
(A) Rohit’s motto is “A better future”, his spending is 20,000,000 INR, and his supporters are the working class.
(viii) Match the following contestants with their mode of campaign: [1]
(A) Aryan – 1. TV and radio ads
(B) Priya – 2. Social media
(C) Rohit – 3. Rallies and speeches
(D) Sunita – 4. Door-to-door campaigning
Answer:
The correct matches are:
Aryan – 2. Social media,
Priya – 3. Rallies and speeches,
Rohit – 4. Door-to-door campaigning,
Sunita – 1. TV and radio ads.
Section – B
Writing Skills (22 Marks)
Question 3.
You are Satvika/ Satvik, class teacher of Grade 7 Section B. The air conditioner in your classroom is malfunctioning. Report this to the Principal in an email. [3]
You may copy the given template to write your email.
From:
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 3 September 20XX, 09:29 AM
Subject:
Answer:
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Date: 3 September 20XX, 09:29 AM
Subject: Request to get the Air Conditioner fixed.
Dear Sir
I would like to bring to your attention that the air conditioner in my classroom, Grade 7 Section B, is malfunctioning. The rising temperatures are making it uncomfortable for both students and teachers. Kindly arrange for a repair at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Warm regards,
Yours truthfully
Satvika
Class teacher (7-B)
Question 4.
You recently visited an art gallery and were extremely mesmerised by a piece of art. Describe that piece of art, the artist and their artistic style in not more than 100 words. [4]
Answer:
My recent visit to an art gallery left me entranced by a captivating piece entitled “Ethereal Reverie” by the artist Isabella Kline. The artwork, a large canvas bathed in vivid hues of blues and purples, depicted a dreamlike landscape. Abstract yet evocative, it featured swirling, ethereal forms that seemed to dance across the canvas. Isabella Kline’s artistic style is a fusion of abstract expressionism and surrealism, creating a harmonious blend of emotion and imagination. “Ethereal Reverie” transported me to a realm of enchantment, where colors and shapes coalesced into a mesmerising symphony of the artist’s boundless creativity.
Question 5.
(a) Did you note that in spite of the Government’s initiatives and provisions made for the girl child, the statistics
shown in the enrolment position of girls in primary and upper primary are not very encouraging. Write a letter to the editor of a national daily, expressing your concern about the issue and the need to work on a war footing to counter the problem of poor enrolment of girls in 120 words. [7]
OR
(b) You are Brinda/Brijesh of Horizon Public School, Kanpur. Write a letter to the Sales Manager, Rajesh Electronics Limited, New Delhi placing an order for computers that you wish to purchase for an additional computer lab to promote vocational education.
Answer:
(a) KKNagar
Agra
17 September 20XX
The Editor
The Times of India
Agra
Sir
Subject: Concern Over Poor Enrolment of Girls in Primary and Upper Primary Education
I hope this letter finds its way into your esteemed publication to shed light on a concerning issue that demands immediate attention. Despite the commendable initiatives and provisions by the government for the welfare and education of the girl child, recent statistics reveal a disheartening state of affairs regarding the enrolment of girts in primary and upper primary education.
This disparity is alarming and highlights the urgency to address the root causes that deter girls from accessing quality education. We must work on a war footing, implementing targeted strategies to counter this problem. This includes creating safe and conducive learning environments, raising awareness about the importance of girls’ education, and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
The future of our nation depends on the education of our girls, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that they have equal access to quality education. Let us join forces to overcome this challenge and empower our girls to reach their full potential.
Yours sincerely,
Sharan
Resident of Agra
OR
(b)
Horizon Public School
Kanpur
18 August 20XX
Sales Manager
Rajesh Electronics Limited
New Delhi
India
Dear Sales Manager
Subject: Purchase Order for Computers
We, at Horizon Public School, Kanpur, are interested in procuring twenty computers for our computer lab from Rajesh Electronics Limited. Our preferred specifications are as follows:
Computer Model: Dell OptiPlex 7080
Quantity: 20 units
Configuration:
Processor: Intel Core i7 10th Gen
RAM: 16GB DDR4
Storage: 512GB SSD
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
Accessories:
20 x 24-inch LED Monitors
20 x Keyboard and Mouse Sets
20 x USB Webcam with Microphone
20 x Wi-Fi Adapters
Kindly provide a comprehensive quotation detailing itemised costs, taxes, shipping charges, and any available discounts. Alongside, we request an estimate of the delivery timeline. The enhancement of our students’ learning experience through cuttingedge technology is our priority, and webelieve Rajesh Electronics Limited can fulfill our requirements.
For any queries or further information, feel free to contact me at 9897XXXXX We anticipate your swift response to facilitate a seamless procurement process.
Thank you for your attention.
Yours sincerely
Brinda
HOD Computer and IT
Horizon PublicSchool.
Question 6.
(a) As an English teacher of a school write an engaging article for your school magazine on ‘Embracing Failure: Why Mistakes Are Essential for Personal Growth’ to motivate your students to learn from mistakes and try again. (Word limit-150 words.) [8]
Cues
I. What is the definition of failure and how does it differ from person to person?
II. How can failure be a stepping stone to success?
III. What are some examples of successful people who have failed before achieving success?
IV. How can we learn from our mistakes and use them to grow personally?
V. Why is it important to embrace failure and not be afraid of making mistakes?
VI. How can we develop a growth mindset and see failure as an opportunity for growth?
VII. What are some strategies for dealing with failure and bouncing back from setbacks?
VIII. How can we support others who are experiencing failure and help them learn from their mistakes?
IX. How can embracing failure lead to greater resilience, confidence, and personal growth?
OR
(b) On the occasion of Earth Day, you participated in various eco-friendly campaigns initiated by your school. Write an article in about 150 words, for your school magazine giving details of these campaigns and impact on you. You are Akshay/ Akshika of Brightland Public School.
Cues
I. Why do we celebrate Earth Day?
II. Why is that it should be celebrated everywhere?
III. Disasters that are depleting the Earth.
IV. Activities to promote saving the Earth.
Answer:
(a) Title: Embracing Failure: A Stepping Stone to Personal Growth -by Shikha, English Teacher
As we journey through life, the path to success is often paved with stumbling blocks and setbacks. It’s essential for us, as learners, to recognise that these obstacles are not roadblocks but rather stepping stones to personal growth. Failure, though daunting, holds a profound lesson in resilience and self-improvement.
When we fear failure, we limit ourselves, often avoiding risks that might lead to great accomplishments. Mistakes, however, provide invaluable opportunities for learning. Each stumble offers insights that pave the way for progress and innovation. Just as a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly through a process of struggle, we too transform and develop by confronting our shortcomings.
Embracing failure fosters resilience and determination. It teaches us that setbacks are temporary, while the lessons learned endure. When we persevere through failures, we build character, courage, and a mind set that welcomes challenges with open arms.
So, dear students, let’s change our perspective on failure. It’s not a mark of defeat but rather a badge of courage. Embracing mistakes empowers us to dream big, to learn, and to grow. Let’s not be afraid to stumble; let’s be proud of the lessons we glean from them. Remember, success is not about avoiding failure but about rising stronger every time we fall.
OR
(b) Earth day Celebrations -By Akshika
Earth Day, celebrated on April 22nd, is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a reminder of our duty to protect the planet we call home. At Brightland Public School, we believe that Earth Day should be celebrated everywhere because environmental issues affect us all, transcending borders and boundaries. In recent years, we’ve witnessed disasters like wildfires, floods,and hurricanes that have devastated our planet. These events are stark reminders of the consequences of our unsustainable actions.
To promote Earth Day, our school initiated various eco-friendly campaigns. We organised tree-planting drives, encouraging students to become stewards of nature. We also conducted awareness sessions on reducing plastic usage, emphasising the importance of recycling.
Participating in these campaigns had a profound impact on me. I realised that small actions can create a big change. Earth Day isn’t just about one day of action; it’s about instilling a lifelong commitment to protect our environment.
As we celebrate Earth Day, let’s remember that the preservation ofour planet is everyone’s responsibility, and together, we can make a significant difference.
Section – C
Grammar (10 Marks)
Question 7.
Complete the tasks A-C as directed
(A) Fill in the blanks (i) -(iii) with the appropriate words. [3]
Doctor: You …… (ought/should/could)(i) avoid stress if you wish to get healthier soon.
Patient: I don’t think I’m getting healthier any soon then.
Doctor: You ………. (must/cannot)(ii) not think that way, I say so as your friend.
Patient: ………. (Should/Can)(iii) I do some meditation?
Doctor: Nothing’s better than meditation to treat your condition.
Answer:
(i) should
(ii) must
(iii) can
(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. The first one has been done as an example. [4]
No. |
Text |
Word before |
Omission |
Word after |
Space Shuttle Atlantis which is orbiter |
is |
an |
orbiter |
|
i. |
began its first flight October 1985 and | |||
retired recently after completing its last flight | ||||
ii. |
in July 2011, weighed around 80 tonne. It | |||
iii. |
spent 306 days, 14 hours 12 minutes43 seconds in space. | |||
iv |
During its service, Space Shuttle Atlantis played a vital role in numerous space missions, contributing to our understanding the cosmos |
Answer:
Word before Omission Word after
(i) flight in October
(ii) 2011 it weighed
(iii) minutes and 43
(iv) understanding of the
(C) Do as directed
(a) Rearrange the following jumbled words/phrases in the given dialogue to create a meaningful sentence. [1]
(i) We should always try to be honest.
Why, What happens to an honest man?
everywhere / and / is respected / honest man / an / admired.
Answer:
An honest man is respected and admired everywhere.
or
Everywhere an honest man is respected and admired.
or
An honest manis admired and respected everywhere.
(b) Report the dialogues to complete the paragraph that follows. [2]
Alex: So, having travelled extensively, do you consider yourself a seasoned explorer?
Sophia: I’m enchanted by the world of travel, despite its challenges.
Alex: Could you elaborate on your previous statement?
Sophia: We encounter diverse cultures, landscapes, and even difficulties, yet the allure of exploration unites us with a common thread.
Alex inquired if Sophia felt like a well-travelled individual, having travelled extensively. Sophia responded that she (ii) ………… even though there were obstacles. Alex then asked her to clarify (iii) ……………. . Sophia elucidated that encountering various cultures, terrains, and even hardships intertwines with the irresistible allure of exploration, binding them with a shared passion.
Answer:
(ii) was enchanted by the world of travel
(iii) her previous statement.
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. 4+4=8
(A) “Other creatures loathed his voice
But, alas, they had no choice
And the crass cacophony
Blared out front the sumac tree.”
(The Frog and The Nightingale)
(i) What was the reaction of other creatures to the character’s voice, and why did they have no choice but to endure it? [1]
Answer:
Other creatures reacted to the character’s voice with a sense of loathing and dislike. Despite their distaste for the sound, they were compelled to tolerate it because they had no alternative option to escape from its presence.
(ii) Describe the nature of the sound that came from the sumac tree and its impact on the surroundings. [1]
Answer:
The sound emanating from the sumac tree was described as a “crass cacophony,” indicating that it was a harsh and jarring noise. This noise had a disruptive effect on the surroundings, disturbing the peaceful atmosphere and likely causing discomfort for any nearby creatures.
(iii) In what manner did the creatures feel about the character’s voice, and how did their lack of options affect their situation? [1]
Answer:
Thecreatures heldanegativeopinionofthecharacter’s voice, viewing it with disdain. Unfortunately, they found themselves in a situation where they couldn’t avoid the unpleasantness of the sound because they lacked any other choice or alternative.
(iv) Explain the role of the sumac tree in generating the disruptive noise and how it affected both the character and the environment. [1]
Answer:
The sumac tree played a significant role as the source of the disturbing noise that filled the environment. The blaring sound coming from the tree had a disruptive impact on both the character and the ecosystem, creating an atmosphere of discomfort and discord rather than tranquillity.
(B) Answering a reporter’s question as to what the family was going to do next, Mr. Shultz said that they were offto stock up on some games. “It was while we were in the hospital, someone stole the lot. I don’t know whathappened to them.”
(Virtually True)
(i) Why was Shultz in the hospital? [1]
Answer:
Shultz was badly injured in a motor-way accident, and was in a coma.
(ii) What happened to the games after they were stolen? [1]
Answer:
They were sold at the Computer fair from where Michael’s father bought them.
(iii) What does the phrase, ‘stock up’ mean? [1]
Answer:
buy in large amounts / a mass for future use
(iv) Whom is Mr. Shultz taking to? [1]
Answer:
A reporter from a newspaper
(C) ‘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.
(Not Marble, nor the Gilded Monuments)
(i) What will the speaker continue to do despite facing death and enmity? [1]
Answer:
The speaker will continue to exist and be remembered despite facing death and enmity. The use of the word “pace forth” suggests that the speaker’s legacy will endure or move forward, even in the face of mortality and hostility.
(ii) Where will the speaker’s praise continue to be acknowledged? [1]
Answer:
The speaker’s praise will continue to be acknowledged “in the eyes of all posterity.” In other words, future generations will recognise and celebrate the speaker’s accomplishments and virtues.
(iii) Whose eyes will acknowledge the speaker’s praise according to the excerpt? [1]
Answer:
The speaker’s praise will be acknowledged by “all posterity.” This means that the recognition and admiration will come from people who come after the speaker’s time, the generations that follow.
(iv) Until when will the speaker’s praise endure, as mentioned in the excerpt? [1]
Answer:
The speaker’s praise will endure to the ending doom suggesting that the speaker’s legacy will last until the very end of the world or the end of time itself, emphasising the timelessness of their praise and reputation.
Question 9.
Answer ANY FIVE of the following six questions in about 30- 40 words each.
(i) “Pen is mightier than sword”. Elucidate with reference to the poem ‘Not Marble Nor Gilded Monuments’. [2]
Answer:
‘Pen is mightier than the sword’ because everything else fades away with the passage of time. Time is all powerful and can destroy everything except literature. Art and literature are immortal. They transcend time and remain relevant throughout the ages.
(ii) Why does Mrs. Slater decide to shift the bureau from grandfather’s room before the arrival of the Jordans? (The Dear Departed) [2]
Answer:
Abel, the grandfather, is ‘found dead’ in the room by Mrs. Slater. She informs her sister and then
starts waiting for her to come for the mourning. At that time, it strikes her that grandfather’s things will be divided between the two of them. She loves grandfather’s bureau. So, she decides to shift it to her room before the arrival of Jordans so that she can tell them that the bureau is theirs and not grandfather’s. That way she will be the sole owner of it.
(iii) Although Nicola and Jacopo are young boys, the author refers to them as Gentlemen. Why did he do so? (Gentlemen of Verona) [2]
Answer:
The boys had lost their home and their father had been killed in the war as well. The war had led them to the streets. Their sister was suffering from tuberculosis of the spine. They worked very hard to pay for her treatment. All this did not break their spirit. They remained dedicated and selfless. They would rather work hard and earn money than have anybody feel sorry for them and help them. Therefore, the author refers to them as Gentlemen.
(iv) How did Louisa Mebbin manage to buy the pretty weekend cottage? (Mrs. Packletide’s Tiger) [2]
Answer:
Mrs. Packletide had killed the wrong animal and he tiger had died of a heart-attack. Only Louisa Mebbin knew this. Every newspaper and magazine reported the killing of the tiger and Mrs. Packletide did not deny it. Louisa found that enough reason to blackmail her and that is how she bought the cottage.
(v) What was Ali’s profession when he was young? (The Letter) [2]
Answer:
Ali was a hunter. When Ali sighted the earth-brown partridge, the poor bird was as good as in his bag his sharp eyes would spot the hare crouching in a yellow-brown shrub and in another moment, it was dead, even the best hunting dogs would fail, but Ali never missed to notice game nor did he ever miss his mark.
(vi) What made the writer believe that he was good at writing ghost stories and how was it disproved? (A Shady Plot) [2]
Answer:
The writer considered himself to be good at writing ghost stories as he had written many for a magazine. He was over-confident of his ability to write such stories but suddenly the ghost Helen appeared and told him that it was she who helped him by giving him the plots for writing ghost stories and now she would not do it any longer.
Question 10.
Answer ANY ONE of the following two questions in about 150 words. [8]
(A) In Stanley Houghton’s play ‘The Dear Departed,’ how does the author employ satire and irony to critique societal values and family dynamics surrounding death and inheritance? Provide specific examples from the play to support your answer.
OR
(B) Imagine that Patol Babu read about the boys, Nicola and Jacopo from ‘Two Gentlemen of Verona’and feels inspired by their experiences and transformations in life. He is inspired to share his own story and offer advice to them.
Answer:
(A) Stanley Houghton employs satire and irony in “The Dear Departed” to critique societal values and family dynamics linked to death and inheritance. The play comically exposes the family’s materialism and hypocrisy following the supposed passing of Mr. Abel Merry weather. When they believe he’s dead, the family members outwardly mourn, yet their true motivations surface when they discover he’s alive. For instance, Mrs. Jordan expresses grief but swiftly switches to calculating her potential gains from his death. This satirizes the insincerity of their mourning.
The family’s eagerness to claim Mr. Merry weather’s possessions further highlights their selfcenteredness. Despite their claims of unity, their hidden conflicts and self-interest become apparent as they scramble to secure the inheritance. The play’s irony lies in the title itself – “The Dear Departed” initially implies genuine affection, but the characters are “dear” to each other solely in terms of financial gain. Such instances of satire and irony not only provide comic relief but also offer a sharp critique of society’s materialistic values and the erosion of genuine familial bonds in the face of inheritance.
OR
(B) Dear Nicola and Jacopo,
I hope this letter finds you well. I recently had the pleasure of reading about your adventures and transformations in ‘Two Gentlemen of Verona,’ and I couldn’t help but be inspired by your journey. Life often presents us with unexpected challenges and opportunities, and your story reminded me of my own experience.
In my own life, I too faced unexpected turns and challenges. At a certain time, I found myself unexpectedly cast in a film role with just one dialogue. While it seemed insignificant at first, I realised that every opportunity, no matter how small, can be a chance for personal growth. I embraced the role with dedication and passion, and it turned out to be a truly rewarding experience.
My advice to you both is this: embrace every challenge and opportunity that comes your way. Life has a way of surprising us, and it is in those moments that we discover our true potential. Keep an open heart and a positive attitude, and you will find that even the smallest roles in life can lead to great transformations.
Wishing you both the best in your future adventures.
Warm regards
Patol Babu