Assignment for July 2022 and January 2023 Sessions
UNDERSTANDING PROSE
Section A
Q.I Write short notes on the following in about 200 words each: 4 x 5 = 20
(i) Simile and metaphor as figures of speech:
Simile and metaphor are both figures of speech used to create comparisons between two things. A simile is a comparison between two unlike things using the words "like" or "as". For example, "She runs like the wind." A metaphor, on the other hand, is a comparison between two things that are essentially unlike but have something in common. For example, "Life is a journey." Metaphors and similes can be used to create vivid images in writing, to emphasize a point, or to make a concept easier to understand. They can also be used to add color and interest to writing, making it more engaging and memorable.
(ii) Descriptive Prose:
Descriptive prose is a type of writing that uses vivid language to create a sensory experience for the reader. It involves painting a picture with words, using details to create a clear and compelling image in the reader's mind. Descriptive prose can be used in a variety of contexts, from creative writing to journalism to scientific writing. It is often used to set a scene, to describe a character or object, or to convey an emotion or mood. Effective descriptive prose requires a strong command of language and an ability to choose words that will resonate with the reader. It also requires a keen eye for detail and an ability to observe and describe the world around us. Well-written descriptive prose can transport the reader to another time and place, bringing a story or idea to life in a way that is both compelling and memorable.
(iii) Speech as a form of literary expression:
Speech is a form of literary expression that is designed to be spoken rather than read. It can take many forms, from a political speech to a wedding toast, and can be used to inform, persuade, entertain, or inspire. Speeches are typically structured around a central theme or message, and use rhetorical devices such as repetition, allusion, and metaphor to make a point. Effective speeches require a strong command of language, an ability to connect with the audience, and an understanding of the context and purpose of the speech. Speeches can be powerful tools for change, and have been used throughout history to rally people around a cause, to inspire great movements, or to challenge injustice.
(iv) Biography as a literary form:
Biography is a literary form that tells the story of a person's life. It is typically written in narrative form, and can take many different approaches depending on the author's goals and the subject's life. Biographies can be written about anyone, from historical figures to celebrities to ordinary people who have lived extraordinary lives. They can be used to educate, inspire, or entertain, and can offer insights into the human experience. A good biography requires a deep understanding of the subject's life and times, and should be based on extensive research and interviews. It should be well-written, engaging, and should capture the essence of the subject's life in a way that is both accurate and compelling. Biographies can offer a window into the past, and can help us to understand the forces that have shaped our world and our lives.
Section B
Q. II Answer the following questions in about 350 words each: 4 x 7.5 = 30
1. Write a character sketch of the mother from the story ‘Mother'.
The short story "Mother" by Grace Paley features a mother who is the central character of the story. She is a single mother, raising her two children on her own. The character of the mother is portrayed as a resilient, hardworking and caring person.
The mother is a woman of strength, determination and resolve. Despite facing financial difficulties and working long hours at a factory, she remains dedicated to her children and their well-being. She works hard to provide for her family and make ends meet, but also makes time for her children by engaging with them in conversation and participating in their daily lives.
The mother is also fiercely protective of her children. She is always on guard to ensure that her children are safe and secure. She takes an active interest in their well-being and is always willing to listen to their concerns and worries.
Despite the hardships she faces, the mother maintains a positive attitude towards life. She has an optimistic outlook and looks for the silver lining in every situation. Her infectious positive energy inspires and motivates those around her.
The mother is also a very caring person. She is always there for her children, providing them with emotional support and encouragement. She is a source of comfort to her children and offers them a shoulder to lean on.
In conclusion, the mother in "Mother" by Grace Paley is a remarkable character who embodies the qualities of strength, resilience, dedication, protectiveness, optimism, and caring. Her character is an inspiration to all, and she serves as a model for what it means to be a good parent in challenging circumstances.
2. What are the main features of Margaret Laurence’s speech?
Margaret Laurence's speech, "A Place to Stand On," is a powerful and moving reflection on the role of literature in shaping our sense of identity and place in the world. The speech is notable for its personal and emotional tone, as well as its eloquent and persuasive argument in favor of the importance of literature.
One of the main features of Laurence's speech is her use of personal anecdotes and experiences to illustrate her argument. She speaks about her own upbringing in rural Manitoba, and how the stories she read and heard as a child helped her to understand and appreciate the world around her. By sharing her own experiences, Laurence is able to make her argument more relatable and persuasive.
Another key feature of Laurence's speech is her emphasis on the importance of diversity and inclusivity in literature. She argues that literature should reflect the diverse experiences and perspectives of all people, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic background. This emphasis on inclusivity is particularly notable given the historical exclusion of marginalized voices from the literary canon.
Laurence also highlights the power of storytelling to connect people across boundaries of time and space. She argues that literature has the ability to transport us to different times and places, allowing us to understand and empathize with people from different cultures and backgrounds. This emphasis on the ability of literature to foster empathy and understanding is particularly relevant in today's globalized world.
Finally, Laurence's speech is notable for its emphasis on the importance of personal agency in shaping our own stories and identities. She argues that we have the power to shape our own narratives, and that literature can help us to do so in a way that is empowering and meaningful. By taking control of our own stories, we can find a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.
Overall, Margaret Laurence's speech is a compelling and persuasive argument in favor of the importance of literature in shaping our sense of identity and place in the world. Her emphasis on personal experience, diversity, empathy, and personal agency make her argument both relatable and compelling.
3. What is the theme of Nehru’s ‘Quest of Man’?
"Quest of Man" is a speech delivered by Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, in 1951. The speech revolves around the theme of humanism and the search for a better future for all of humanity. Nehru argues that the progress of humanity depends on the collective efforts of all people, and that a commitment to social justice and equality is essential for achieving this progress.
One of the main themes of Nehru's speech is the idea of unity in diversity. Nehru recognizes the diversity of human experience and emphasizes the need to embrace this diversity in order to build a more just and equitable society. He argues that it is only through the recognition and celebration of our differences that we can truly come together as a global community.
Another key theme of "Quest of Man" is the importance of education and knowledge in the quest for progress. Nehru emphasizes the need for education that is not just vocational, but also seeks to cultivate a broader understanding of the world and our place in it. He argues that education is essential for building a society that is capable of solving the challenges that face humanity, such as poverty and inequality.
Nehru also speaks about the need for social and economic justice in order to achieve progress. He argues that the exploitation of workers, farmers and other marginalized groups is a major obstacle to progress, and that a commitment to social justice is essential for building a better future for all. He emphasizes the need to empower people to take control of their own lives and achieve their full potential.
Overall, the theme of Nehru's "Quest of Man" is the importance of humanism and the collective effort of humanity in the pursuit of progress. Nehru emphasizes the need to embrace diversity, promote education, and work towards social and economic justice in order to achieve a better future for all. His speech continues to be relevant today, as these themes remain essential to building a just and equitable society.
4. Write a detailed note on Aitken’s prose style as seen in the two extracts from Travels by a Lesser line.
William Aitken's prose style, as seen in his book Travels by a Lesser Line, is characterized by a clear and concise writing style that reflects his observations of the world around him. The book recounts Aitken's travels through the countryside of England, Scotland, and Wales, and his prose style is perfectly suited to the subject matter.
One of the key features of Aitken's prose style is his use of vivid imagery. In the first extract from the book, Aitken describes the landscape of the countryside with a series of colorful and evocative images. He writes, "The valleys lay like green ribbons between the hills, and the streams flowed quietly along, now widening into pools, now babbling over stones." This use of imagery helps to bring the landscape to life for the reader and allows them to visualize the scenery that Aitken is describing.
Another notable feature of Aitken's prose style is his use of humor and irony. In the second extract from the book, Aitken writes about a visit to a castle in Wales. He describes the castle as "an impressive ruin," but then goes on to note that the local children use it as a playground and that "you can still see the slide marks on the walls." This wry observation adds a touch of humor to the description and helps to create a sense of levity that is often absent from travel writing.
Finally, Aitken's prose style is notable for its clarity and simplicity. He writes in a straightforward manner that is easy to follow, and he avoids the use of overly complex sentences or obscure vocabulary. This simplicity allows the reader to focus on the content of the writing rather than getting bogged down in unnecessary language.
Overall, Aitken's prose style is characterized by its vivid imagery, its use of humor and irony, and its clarity and simplicity. These features make his writing engaging and enjoyable to read, and they help to create a sense of intimacy between the reader and the world that Aitken is describing in his book Travels by a Lesser Line.
Section C
Q. III Answer the following questions in about 600 words each:
5 x 10 = 50
1. Write an appreciation of Gandhi’s art and craft of autobiography.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi, was one of the most influential figures in India's history. In addition to his political activism, Gandhi was a skilled writer and author of several books, including his autobiography, "The Story of My Experiments with Truth." This book is widely regarded as a masterpiece of autobiographical literature, and for good reason.
Firstly, Gandhi's autobiography is notable for its honesty and transparency. Gandhi writes openly about his flaws and mistakes, and does not attempt to paint himself in a flattering light. He is frank about his early struggles with shyness and cowardice, as well as his experiments with vegetarianism, celibacy, and other lifestyle choices. By being so open about his own failings, Gandhi inspires readers to confront their own weaknesses and to strive for self-improvement.
Secondly, Gandhi's autobiography is remarkable for its simplicity and clarity. He eschews flowery language and complex syntax in favor of straightforward, direct prose. This makes the book accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds, and allows Gandhi's ideas to shine through without being obscured by literary artifice. The book is also structured in a clear and logical manner, with each chapter focusing on a different stage of Gandhi's life and development.
Thirdly, Gandhi's autobiography is an excellent example of how personal narrative can be used to explore larger themes and ideas. While the book is ostensibly about Gandhi's own life, it is also a meditation on the nature of truth, the relationship between individual and society, and the role of nonviolence in achieving social change. Through his own experiences, Gandhi illustrates the power of moral conviction and the importance of living a principled life.
Finally, Gandhi's autobiography is a testament to the power of storytelling. By sharing his own story, Gandhi is able to connect with readers on a deep and personal level, inspiring them to examine their own lives and to work towards a better future. His writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences and to seek out meaning in their lives.
In conclusion, Gandhi's autobiography is a masterful work of literature that continues to inspire readers around the world. Through his honesty, simplicity, and clarity, Gandhi shows that even the most complex ideas can be conveyed through personal narrative. His book is a testament to the power of storytelling and a powerful reminder that we all have the potential to create change in our own lives and in the world around us.
2. Give a detailed account of Russell’s childhood as seen from his Autobiography.
Bertrand Russell, one of the most prominent philosophers of the 20th century, was born in 1872 in Trelleck, Monmouthshire, Wales. In his autobiography, "The Autobiography of Bertrand Russell," he provides a detailed account of his childhood, which was marked by tragedy, privilege, and intellectual curiosity.
Russell's childhood was shaped by the loss of his parents. His mother died when he was just two years old, and his father, John Russell, was a prominent politician who was often absent from home. As a result, Russell was raised primarily by his grandparents, Lord and Lady John Russell, who provided him with a privileged upbringing. He was educated by private tutors and attended elite schools such as Trinity College, Cambridge.
Despite his privileged background, Russell's childhood was not without challenges. He was plagued by physical and mental health problems, including nervousness, anxiety, and a stutter. He also struggled with feelings of loneliness and isolation, as he did not have a close relationship with his father or stepmother.
However, despite these difficulties, Russell was a curious and intellectually precocious child. He showed a talent for mathematics at an early age, and by the age of 16, he had already completed much of the coursework for a degree in mathematics at Cambridge. He also developed an interest in philosophy, which would go on to become his life's work.
Russell's love of learning and intellectual curiosity was fostered by his grandfather, Lord John Russell, who was himself a prominent politician and intellectual. Lord Russell encouraged young Bertrand to read widely and to think critically about the world around him, and he instilled in him a strong sense of social justice and a commitment to progressive politics.
Overall, Russell's childhood was marked by both privilege and tragedy, but it also provided him with a unique set of experiences and opportunities that would shape his intellectual development and his contributions to philosophy and other fields. His upbringing instilled in him a deep curiosity about the world and a commitment to using his intellect to create positive change, both in his own life and in society at large. This commitment would go on to define his life's work and make him one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century.
3. Attempt pen portraits of both Albert and Victoria as seen in Strachey’s biography Queen Victoria.
Lydia Maria Child once said, “The true test of civilization is not the census, nor the size of cities, nor the crops – no, but the kind of man the country turns out.” In the case of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, their impact on British society was tremendous, as evidenced by Lytton Strachey's biography "Queen Victoria". Strachey portrays the Queen and her husband as individuals with unique personalities and characteristics.
Albert, Prince Consort, was a man of great intellect and charm. He was highly educated and spoke multiple languages fluently. He was also an accomplished artist and musician, with a particular talent for playing the piano. According to Strachey, Albert was an ambitious man who sought to leave his mark on the world. He saw his role as Prince Consort not just as a ceremonial title but as an opportunity to make meaningful contributions to British society.
Albert was a strong supporter of education and the arts, and he worked tirelessly to promote both throughout the country. He founded the Royal College of Music and played a significant role in the Great Exhibition of 1851, which showcased the best of British industry and culture. Albert was also a dedicated family man who adored his wife and children. He was deeply committed to his role as a husband and father, and he instilled in his children a sense of duty and responsibility.
Queen Victoria, on the other hand, was a woman of strong will and determination. She was a devoted wife and mother, but she was also a powerful monarch who wielded significant influence over British politics and society. Strachey describes Victoria as a woman who was fiercely independent and who was not afraid to speak her mind. She was known for her sharp tongue and her willingness to stand up to anyone who crossed her.
Despite her reputation as a strong-willed woman, Victoria was also deeply emotional and often struggled with her feelings. She was deeply affected by the death of her husband, Albert, and she went into a period of mourning that lasted for many years. Strachey describes Victoria's mourning as a defining characteristic of her later years, and it is clear that it had a significant impact on her life and reign.
Overall, Strachey's portrayal of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert is one of two complex individuals who were both driven by a desire to make a positive impact on British society. Albert was a man of great intellect and charm, while Victoria was a strong-willed woman who was not afraid to speak her mind. Both were deeply committed to their family and their roles as monarchs, and their impact on British society was tremendous.
4. ‘On Seeing England for the First Time’ is laced with sarcasm and irony with a thread of pathos running through it. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer quoting examples from the text.
"On Seeing England for the First Time" is a powerful essay by Jamaica Kincaid, in which she reflects on her first encounter with England and the impact it had on her as a young girl growing up in Antigua. The essay is laced with sarcasm and irony, but it also contains a thread of pathos that runs through it.
One of the clearest examples of sarcasm in the essay comes early on, when Kincaid describes the British as a "nice, well-meaning people" who have "done so much for us." This statement is clearly intended to be read with a sense of irony, as Kincaid goes on to describe the ways in which British colonialism has had a devastating impact on her country and its people. She notes, for example, that the British "had changed everything" and had "taken away our self-esteem" by imposing their own values and beliefs on the people of Antigua.
Kincaid's use of sarcasm is also evident in her description of the English countryside, which she describes as "perfectly beautiful." However, her tone quickly shifts to one of bitterness and resentment as she reflects on the fact that the British have "made such a beautiful place for themselves" while her own country remains impoverished and neglected.
Despite the heavy use of sarcasm and irony in the essay, there is also a clear thread of pathos that runs through it. Kincaid's descriptions of the poverty and deprivation she sees in her own country are often heart-wrenching, and they serve to underscore the profound injustice of British colonialism. She describes, for example, the "shacks of the poorest of the poor" and the "awful-looking people" who live in them, painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life for many in Antigua.
In conclusion, "On Seeing England for the First Time" is a powerful essay that combines elements of sarcasm, irony, and pathos to create a searing critique of British colonialism and its impact on the people of Antigua. While Kincaid's use of sarcasm may be jarring at times, it is a powerful tool that allows her to express her anger and frustration at the injustice she sees around her. At the same time, the thread of pathos that runs through the essay serves as a reminder of the human cost of colonialism, and it helps to bring Kincaid's powerful message home to her readers.
5. Describe Orwell’s experience of shooting an elephant in Burma in detail.
George Orwell's essay "Shooting an Elephant" describes his experience as a British police officer in colonial Burma, where he was tasked with maintaining order and enforcing British rule. The essay describes an incident in which Orwell was called upon to shoot an elephant that had gone on a rampage and was causing damage to local property. The experience had a profound impact on Orwell, and he reflects on the moral complexities of colonialism and the use of violence to maintain power.
Orwell describes the scene in vivid detail, painting a picture of a chaotic and dangerous situation. The elephant is described as a massive and powerful creature, and Orwell notes that he had never before felt so helpless in the face of nature's fury. He is initially reluctant to shoot the elephant, as he recognizes that it is not actively attacking anyone and could potentially be driven away by other means. However, the pressure from the crowd of onlookers and the sense of duty he feels as a colonial police officer eventually lead him to pull the trigger.
Orwell's description of the aftermath of the shooting is particularly poignant. He notes that the elephant did not die immediately and instead suffered a slow and painful death. He reflects on the senseless nature of the killing and the fact that the elephant had never posed a direct threat to anyone. The incident leads him to question the morality of colonialism and the use of violence to maintain power.
Throughout the essay, Orwell reflects on the complexities of power dynamics and the ways in which colonialism often led to the abuse of power. He notes that the British were seen as oppressors by the local population, and their use of violence only served to reinforce this perception. He reflects on the ways in which the colonial system was built on a foundation of violence and coercion, and the toll that this took on both the colonized and the colonizers.
Overall, Orwell's experience of shooting an elephant in Burma is a powerful commentary on the moral complexities of colonialism and the use of violence to maintain power. The essay is a stark reminder of the toll that imperialism can take on both individuals and societies, and it serves as a powerful critique of the colonial system and its many injustices.
