Character
Sketch from Play - The Count's Revenge
Monte
Cristo
INDEX
* 1 Introduction
* 2 As A Young Sailor
* 3 A Victim Of Conspiracy
* 4 Convicted As A Spy
* 5 Escapes From Prison
* 6 As Count Of Monte Cristo
* 7 Count’s Revenge
* 8 Monte Cristo’s Challenge
* 9 Duel Averted
* 10 Conclusion
Introduction
The Count of Monte Cristo is the hero of the
play, The Count’s Revenge. He is the charming, swashbuckling and ever obliging
nobleman, splendidly dressed. The handsome hero, gay, cynical, not very young,
with the touch of the devil about him.
As A
Young Sailor
As a young man, Monte Cristo was known as Edmond
Dantes, a mere sailor of Marseilles, a port in South of France. He loved a
beautiful Catalan girl, Mercedes, to whom he was engaged. He was to marry her,
on his return from a voyage, which he was to undertake in due course of time.
A Victim
Of Conspiracy
But the marriage never took place, as a young
fisherman, Fernand Mondego, a friend of Edmond and a snake under grass has
other plans. Fernand Mondego secretely loved Mercedes and wished to marry her.
So the crafty Fernand, hatched the most devilish of plots against his own
friend (Edmond) whereby he got him condemned as a spy of exiled Buonopart, by
giving false evidence in the court.
Convicted
As A Spy
Poor Edmond, a victim of hatred and
jealousy, is convicted as a spy and condemned to life imprisonment in an
underground dungeon. The evil Fernand then, convinced Mercedes, through false
news in the press that Edmond Dantes had died in prison. Then he gradually
gained her confidence by sympathizing with her. In this way, Fernand succeeded
in marrying Mercedes.
Escapes
From Prison
The unfortunate Edmond Dantes, remained in
Prison for 14 long years. He is an innocent victim of blind justice. Then luck
favoured him. Six years before the events of our play, Edmond contrived to
escape from prison. After escaping from prison, he re-establishes himself in
life with wonderful speed and success. In six years, he acquires wealth, a
little and a dazzling place in the French Society and settles down in Paris.
As Count
Of Monte Cristo
As Count of Monte Cristo, he is greatly
respected and admired. But his main aim in life is to take revenge from Fernand
Mondego, his deadly enemy, now living in Paris as the Count of Morcerf. Monte
Cristo discovers after searching investigations, that his old enemy the Count
of Morcerf committed yet another gross act of villainy during his service in
the French Army. That he accepted bribes from the Turks, with whom France was
at war and surrendered the Fortress of Yanina to them, in 1823.
Count’s
Revenge
By keeping in the background, Monte Cristo
condemns Count of Morcerf as a traitor to his country. He thus succeeds in
taking sweet revenge from his archenemy. He first publishes articles in the
newspapers and later in the Chamber of Deputies, he backs his charges by giving
convincing proofs. It is at this point, in the play, that Morcerf is, at least
exposed as the Villain that he is.
Monte
Cristo’s Challenge
Albert, the son of the Count of Morcerf is much
offended on learning that his own friend is the cause of his family disgrace
and disrepute. In a fit of rage, he challenges Monte Cristo to a duel, which
was to be fought at Bois-de-Vincennes at 8 a.m.
Duel
Averted
Owing to the intervention of the Countess,
his beloved of yester-years, Monte Cristo consents to spare her son’s life.
Monte Cristo gives his word that Albert would come to no harm and that he would
die, in his place. However, it is the villain who dies and Monte Cristo is thus
avenged.
Conclusion
There is no denying that Monte Cristo is the
pivot around whom the whole play revolves. He is indeed a man of integrity and
honour. He has a charming personality. He is kind and noble who is rewarded in
the end for his virtuosity
The
Count of Morcerf
INDEX
* 1 Introduction
* 2 A Rogue And A Rascal
* 3 A Mean And Degraded Man
* 4 A Traitor To His Country
* 5 As A Liar And A Wicked Person
* 6 A Violent Death
Introduction
The Count of Morcerf is presented as the
villain of the play, The Count’s Revenge. Prior to becoming a Count, he was a
fisherman. He was then known as Fernand Mondego. At that point of time, he
lived in Marseilles. He had a friend, Edmond Dantes, who was a sailor. Fernand
was quite friendly with him. Edmond was engaged to a beautiful Catalan girl,
Mercedes. This fact was known to Fernand. But being an evil natured man, he
secretly yearned to marry Mercedes. Therefore, to make his dream come true, he
hatched a plot – the most diabolic, which any man could have hatched, against
any man.
A Rogue
And A Rascal
He is out and out a rogue and a rascal. In
order to win the hand of Mercedes, he framed a false charge against his friend,
Edmond in the court. He proved that Edmond was the spy of the exiled Napoleon
Bonapart. He provided false evidences against Edmond and thus got him
imprisoned for 20 years. In this way, he very cleverly removed the innocent
Edmond, out of the way.
A Mean
And Degraded Man
Once Edmond Dantes had been taken care of
Fernand had little difficulty in trapping Mercedes into his trap. He first
convinced Mercedes, of the death of Edmond by publishing the false news of his
death in the newspapers. Then appearing as a friend and a sympathizer her first
consoled her. And after wining her confidence, he then proposed to marry her.
Being heart-broke and lonely, she accepted his offer. Thus, the evil monster,
succeeded in his devilish plan.
A Traitor To His Country
Having accomplished all his plans successfully,
he decided to settle down in Paris. So, he said good bye to Marseilles. While
in Paris, he joined the Army, and after sometime, became a captain in 1822. The
French were at war against the Turks. Fernand as Captain was defending the Fortress
of Yanina. Being a coward and a mean person, he surrendered the fortress to the
Turks on receiving a huge bribe. He however made it appear as though he got
defeated. Having acquired tons of wealth, Fernand took his discharge from the
Army. He then took the title of the Count and settled in Paris.
As A Liar And A Wicked Person
Having amassed a huge fortune, the count started
living like a lord when he is proved as a traitor in the chamber of Deputies,
he still kept denying his charges. Even in the face of sound evidence, he kept
denying his guilt. He is a liar and a rogue.
A Violent Death
After he is proved a traitor, he is still not
remorseful. When he is face to face with Edmond, he pulls out his pistol to
shoot him. But Albert, Beauchamp pounce on him, to snatch the pistol from him.
In the struggle the pistol goes off and the Count of Morcerf, shoots himself.
Thus Monte Cristo is avenged.
The Countess of
Morcerf
INDEX
* 1 Introduction
* 2 A Victim Of A Conspiracy
* 3 Tricked Into Marrying Fernand Mondego
* 4 As A Loving Mother
* 5 Mercedes Confides To Her Son
* 6 Duel Averted
* 7 A Woman of Great Qualities
Introduction
The Countess of Morcerf is a beautiful lady,
with a bewitching personality. She is lie a breath of fresh air, in the play
The Count’s Revenge. Twenty years ago, she lived in Marseilles and was
bethroted to Edmond Dantes. She was then known as Mercedes, an extremely
charming lady. She is adored and admired by all. She enchanted every one, who
came into contact with her. So ravishingly beautiful was she.
A Victim Of A Conspiracy
It is her beauty, which resulted in her undoing,
so to speak. While it was known to all and sundry, that she was to be married
to Edmond Dantes A fisherman, named Fernand Mondego, also desired to marry her.
Fernand Mondego, though a friend of Edmond Dantes, hatched a most diabolic
plot, whereby he got Edmond condemned as a traitor and a spy to the exiled
Buonaparte. Thus he eliminated Edmond from the scene and tricked Mercedes into
marrying her.
Tricked Into Marrying Fernand Mondego
The cunning Fernand Mondego convinced Mercedes
by giving her false evidence that Edmond Dantes had died in Prison. Then he
gradually gains her confidence by sympathy with her. In this way, Fernand
Mondego succeeds in marrying he. Although fate ill treats Mercedes, it goes to
her credit that she remains loyal wife to her villainous husband, Fernand
Mondego.
As A Loving Mother
She dearly loved her son, Albert. When she
learns that Albert has challenged Monte Cristo, to a duel, she is deeply
concerned, for the safety of her son. She does what any mother would have done,
under the circumstances. She visits Monte Cristo, under the cover of darkness
and begs of him, to spare the life of her only son. Monte Cristo yields to her
request and promises not to kill Albert.
Mercedes Confides To Her Son
Then Mercedes, now known as the Countess of
Morcerf, confides into her son, Albert and tells him how she had begged of
Monte Cristo, to spare his life. She then requests him not to fight the duel.
She then discloses to Albert the villainy of his father, the Count of Morcerf.
How he got Monte Cristo labelled as a spy and got him imprisoned for twenty
years, although he was absolutely innocent. How Morcerf cheated her into
marrying him and how he ill treated and tortured her.
Duel Averted
Albert after learning about the misdeed of his
father resolves not to fight the duel. Not only this he apologizes to Monte
Cristo and becomes his friend. Thus, the Countess plays a very important role
in averting the duel and saving Albert’s life.
A Woman of Great Qualities
The Countess is a woman of great qualities. She
is kind and affectionate. She is devoted mother and loves her son dearly. As a
wife too, she is faithful to the evil Morcerf, till she learns from Monte
Cristo that she got cheated by Morcerf, into marrying him. The only blot on her
otherwise chaste and pure character, is her desertion of her husband, towards
the end of the play
Albert
* 1 Introduction
* 2 Simple And Noble
* 3 Sentimental Young Man
* 4 A Man Of Honour
* 5 Wise And Bold
* 6 A Dutiful Son
Introduction
Albert is a young French nobleman. He is the
son of the Count and the Countess of Morcerf. A man of great character, to whom
honour and self-respect are of great value. He possesses a very pleasing
personality and is very enthusiastic about life.
Simple And Noble
Albert is very simple by nature. He is unable to
discern Monte Cristo’s intentions in becoming so thick with him. He has all the
noble qualities, which a nobleman values. To him, his honour and his family’s
good name are more dear to him, than life itself.
Sentimental Young Man
Albert is a very sentimental young man. When the
Chamber of Deputies condemns his father, the Count of Morcerf as a traitor, he
is very upset. He narrates to his mother, the Countess, the circumstances in
which his father is disgraced. He felt so ashamed that he wanted to give up his
name and to leave the country. He is so upset that he makes up his mind to take
revenge of his father’s enemy.
A Man Of
Honour
Albert is a man of honour. When he discovers
that his own dear friend, Monte Cristo, is his father’s enemy, he challenges
him, to a duel, for the sake of his family honour.
Wise And
Bold
Although Albert is a very emotional young
man yet he is wise and sensible t heed his mother’s counsel, to desist from
fighting the duel. When his own mother convinces him of his father’s guilt he
not only decides not to fight the duel, but also apologizes to him, for challenging
him to a duel. He is bold and does not feel ashamed, in asking Monte Cristo’s
forgiveness. He is brave and forth right and tells his father, about his guilt
and that he should face his enemy.
A Dutiful
Son
Albert is a dutiful and an affectionate son.
He loves his mother and is very respectful to her. But his only blemish is
that, he shows disrespect to his father, when he learns that his father is the
villain of the piece. He refuses to embrace his father and accept his
blessings. This is in very bad taste. As a sensible and dutiful son, he should
have stood by his father. Apart from this, Albert impresses the readers with
his strong sense of justice and honour and love for his country.
Beauchamp
* 1 Introduction
* 2 As A Sincere Man
* 3 A Sensible Man
* 4 A Cool Headed Man
* 5 As A Second Albert
Introduction
Beauchamp is a very good friend of Albert’s.
It is he who discovers the man, who brought disgraces on Albert’s father, the
Count of Morcerf. He being an editor of a daily newspaper in Paris, is able to
discover Albert’s father’s enemy. In fact the news of Morcerf’s disgrace is
published in his newspaper.
As A
Sincere Man
Beauchamp’s greatest quality is his
sincerity to his friend. Albert greatly depended on him. That is why, he asks
Beauchamp to discover the anonymous writer’s name. We learn later in the play
that Beauchamp succeeds in discovering the name of the man who brings disgrace
to Morcerf.
A Sensible Man
He is a very sensible man. Finding his friend,
Albert, very disturbed on account of his father’s disgrace he does not disclose
his father’s enemy’s name (Monte Cristo), at once. He mentally prepares Albert
by telling him that the name would surprise him, that he would not believe that
it could be his friend, Count of Monte Cristo.
A Cool
Headed Man
Beauchamp is a cool headed man. He does not
flare up or lose his head like Albert who loses his cool, when he learns that,
it is his own dear friend, Monte Cristo, who is the cause of his family’s
disgrace and dishonour. So in a fit of rage, he challenges him to fight a duel.
He thought that this was the only way, he could wash away the blot on his
honour.
As A
Second Albert
Albert points Beauchamp as his second, in
the duel to be fought. Albert has so much faith and reliance on him, that he
made Beauchamp to make all the necessary arrangements for the duel. Tries To
Dissuade Albert Beauchamp tries to dissuade Albert from fighting the duel. In
his surprise, he says:
“MY DEAR ALBERT, YOU DO NOT MEAN TO CARRY
MATTERS SO FAR.”
He stands by Albert, to the very last When the
duel is averted, it is he, who breaks the news of his safety, to the Countess
and Count of Morcerf. He is a real devoted friend – one on whom a fried could
relay and depend.
what was the basis of hatred between Count of
Morcerf and Count of Monte Cristo? plz tell me
I HEAD REACHED YOUR DOORSTEPS
The author of this poem is Ghilam Ali Allana (G.Allana) is a
famous poet of 2oth century. This poem indicates that religion is a very simple
thing but people has made it so complicated
In this poem poet is regrading on his luck that he lost the paper of guidance
(Holly Quran) in which it was mentioned that how to pass a pious life in this
world, he wanna reach the house of Allah but he stopped his journey in middle
because he lost that paper .he meat some people there and asked them to show
the way to house of god,some of them said the way is long and full of trouble
but the God (Allah) has said the way is short and full of happiness , some said
it is stormy and dangerous way The God (Allah) has said the way is straight and
peaceful. people misguide him about the way but God felt pity on him and gave
him same paper (Holly Quran) which he lost ,and when he read that paper and he
sad that he was on the doorstep of the house of God . God (Allah) is near to us
He (ALLAH) is in our hearts only we have to realize it he is not away from
prayers and religion is not complicated thing
lucy gray
This poem is written by WILLIAN WORDSWORTH,he composed this poem
in 1799.Willian wordsworth is regarded as the poet of more recent period.
In this poem he tells about a story of little brave girl who live
with her parents and has no friends so she use to play with her rabbits. once
her mother went to town .her father felt that there would be snowy storm
tonight so he asked lucy to go to town and bring back her mother so lucy took
lantern in her she was on a way to town unfortunately storm came before the
time.she tried to reach the town but she was frightened and she was buried
under snow,her mother reached home by next way her parents were worried about
her cause she did not come back so they started searching her whole the night
searched but could not find her own next day they saw prints of her foot at the
center of wooden bridge where she was fallen down and left the world. some
people believe that lucy come on the mountain in stormy night and wonder over
up and down hills cries for help and sings solitary song which sung up in
winds. the beautiful poem tells about obedience of lucy who acted upon her
father order to bring her mother back home in dreadful storm she went but did
not came back cause she lost her life and became part of nature."]lucy
gray This poem is written by WILLIAN WORDSWORTH,he composed this poem in
1799.Willian wordsworth is regarded as the poet of more recent period. In this
poem he tells about a story of little brave girl who live with her parents and
has no friends so she use to play with her rabbits. once her mother went to
town .her father felt that there would be snowy storm tonight so he asked lucy
to go to town and bring back her mother so lucy took lantern in her she was on
a way to town unfortunately storm came before the time.she tried to reach the
town but she was frightened and she was buried under snow,her mother reached
home by next way her parents were worried about her cause she did not come back
so they started searching her whole the night searched but could not find her
own next day they saw prints of her foot at the center of wooden bridge where
she was fallen down and left the world. some people believe that lucy come on
the mountain in stormy night and wonder over up and down hills cries for help
and sings solitary song which sung up in winds. the beautiful poem tells about
obedience of lucy who acted upon her father order to bring her mother back home
in dreadful storm she went but did not came back cause she lost her life and
became part of nature
Lines from lay of the last minstrel
this patriotic poem is written by sir walter scolt. in this poem
poet shows his precocity to his motherland.
the poet says there can not be a single man in this world who does
not love his motherland,its impossible to imagine about such a man on the
earth.the poet says that its impossible that one goes abroad wonder over there
and when comes back to his mother land and does not feel any pleasure. a person
who does not love his country is complete traitor and does not deserve any
sympathy,he may have fame or countless wealth but he will not be respected by
people and will become all alone.all his name and fame will be ruined before
him .he will die tow times once when he will have no one near to him and second
is physical death and will have no one to morn in his death and pray for his
soul he will be buried without tears and respect . this poem emphasize that
patriotism is ............virtue of man
Character Sketch from
Play
* Character Sketch from Play - Progress
* Character Sketch from Play - The Count's Revenge
Character Sketch from Play - Progress
Mrs.
Meldon
INDEX
* 1 Introduction
* 2 Beginning of Her Role
* 3 Qualities and Character
* 4 A Dignitful Lady
* 5 A Bereaved Widow and Mother
* 6 Her Hatred for War
* 7 A Brave Woman
* 8 A Friend of Humanity
* 9 War Antagonist
* 10 A Passionate Woman
* 11 Comments on Mrs. Meldon’s Act
* 12 Conclusion
Introduction
Mrs. Meldon is a character from a play named
Progress written by St. G. Ervine. The play was sent in 1919, just one year
after the first World War. Mrs. Meldon was aged about forty-three. She is a
sensitive looking widow. She was suffering deeply from her memories. She is not
a fretful, complaining women who had suffered bereavement and when in the
course of play, she speaks of her loss, she does so with grace and beautiful
dignity. Her son was killed in the First World War and her husband died away
out of heart failure. So she was the victim of adverse circumstances. She has a
strong sense of tolerance.
Beginning
of Her Role
Mrs. Meldon’s role started from the second
scene when she returns from a long journey and her brother, Professor Henry
Corrie, does not receive her at the station. It was the death anniversary of
her only son, Eddie. Beginning of Her Role
Mrs. Meldon’s role started from the second scene
when she returns from a long journey and her brother, Professor Henry Corrie,
does not receive her at the station. It was the death anniversary of her only
son, Eddie.
Qualities
and Character
The qualities and the character of Mrs. Meldon
as presented in play are:
A
Dignitful Lady
Mrs. Meldon has a character full of dignity
and grace. She is a lady who has faced the emotional sufferings of life. A
woman having a compassionate, patient, gentle, sensitive and graceful
appearance is what Mrs. Meldon looks like. She is dressed in black clothes,
partly because she is a widow and mainly because it was the third death
anniversary of her son. He dignity becomes apparent when she opines about war.
A
Bereaved Widow and Mother
Eddie was her only son, killed in First
World War. She had brought up her son with a great care and love. She wanted
him to be great in future. Her son enlisted himself in war. She could not
decide to be happy or sorry but chiefly she was happy. The sight of the
messenger made her heart sink and she remained worry about her son. He came on
his first and second leaves all safe but he did not come for third visit. He
was killed in a moment by the men, who had never seen him. This was the most
shocking news. Her husband could not bear it and died away out of heart
failure. She remained all-alone in this miserable world.
“I some
times wonder why I was not granted the mer of death. Why I should be compelled
to live alone.”
The
words of the play reflects her loneliness:
“ I had a husband and a son, when the war began,
I had neither when it was over. I am the
most lonely woman – cruelly alone.”
Her
Hatred for War
She hated wars. She considered them as an
organized butchery of the young ones. She though wars to be the most terrible
thing, which was responsible for the destruction of human peace. She wanted ban
on wars. She wanted the scientists to stop making dangerous weapons. This was
the war, which made her widow and which snatches away her beautiful young son.
She said:
“Yes,
people with broad views, because you are fools. Some one like me, not clever,
create beautiful things like my son, and you, will all your cleverness can only
destroy it.”
A Brave
Woman
Mrs. Meldon was a brave woman. In spite of
losing all what she had, she bore the tragedy patiently. She always suffered
from old memories, but never showed her bereavement. She behaved as a calm and
uncomplaining person.
A Friend
of Humanity
On knowing that her brother has invented a
dreadful bomb, she becomes deeply grief. She opposed her brother and called him
The Most Stupid Man on Earth. She cared for all the mothers as she had seen the
fury of life. She wanted that other boys like Eddie must not fell prey to
horrors of devastating wars. Mrs. Meldon, as a symbol of peace for all, did not
rejoice at the wicked achievement of her brother. She perfectly reflected her
friendship towards humanity.
“Love and
Peace can make the world a Heaven.”
War
Antagonist
Mrs. Meldon was a true well wisher of human
beings. She was totally against war because she thought that war was an
organized butchery of young people. She said that:
"War
is an organized butchery of Boys."
The lady wanted complete abolition of war. She
dreamed that peace, love, care and harmony should prevail in the world and the
earth should depict the shades of Heaven.
A
Passionate Woman
Mrs. Meldon was an enthusiastic person. She
becomes extremely emotional when her brother denies destroying his invention.
When Professor tell his motives to her, her limit of patience and endurance
gets crossed.
“It will
bring me fame and fortune. I shall be rich now, but more than that I shall be
famous.”
She grew
extremely emotional and impulsive and in the interest of humanity. She takes
the matter into her own hands. To save the human race from the deadly invention,
she picks a knife and stabbed her cruel brother to death.
“To kill
someone is also humanity, but only for the sake of a nation.”
Comments
on Mrs. Meldon’s Act
Legally, Mrs. Meldon committed a crime by
killing Professor Corrie. She did not have the right to commit such an act of
madness. But on the other hand, her act seems to be justified for the sake of
humanity. Sometimes a drastic and violent action becomes essential to crush
wicked elements. In dismay, she said:
“Eddie,
dear! I had to Eddie!
She exalts herself in our eyes and we begin to
adore her as a protector of humanity.
Conclusion
She was really shocked to know that her
brother has invented a bomb, which will destroy the whole nation within
twinkling of any eye. She requested him that for the sake of young sons and for
the sake of peace, he must destroy his invention. Her brother did not realize
the intensity of her emotions and refused to destroy it for the sake of mere
sentiments. So she killed him. In the end she saw the wreath of son ruined and
out of sudden passion, she killed him and wins the sympathies of the readers
Prof. Henry Corrie
INDEX
* 1 Introduction
* 2 A Wicked Person
* 3 As A Reputed Scientist
* 4 As A Self-Willed Person
* 5 As An Unpatriotic Person
* 6 As A Cruel And Heartless Person
* 7 As An Enemy of Women
* 8 Corrie’s Desire For Immortality
* 9 Corrie’s Tragic End
Introduction
The author titles the play, The Progress
ironically. He laughs at the attitude of war-mongers and the scientists who
believe that they are contributing to the progress of science by inventing
deadly weapons.
In Professor Corrie, the playwright has created
a self-centered scientist aged between fifty and sixty who is a confirmed
bachelor. His sole interest in life is his scientific experiments. He
captivates our attention from the beginning till the end of the play. His
wolfish snarls and physical features, speak a lot about his inhuman behaviour.
A Wicked
Person
He felt pleasure in destruction. He wanted to
make the wars horrible. He invented a dangerous bomb full of corrosive gas,
which could obliterate whole cities within no time. He wished to make the war
so horrible that no nation will engage in one unless absolutely driven to it.
He said:
“With a
single bomb, we could wipe out the population of a city as a big as Manchestar.”
As A
Reputed Scientist
There is no doubt that Professor Corrie is a
great scientist, who is extremely dedicated and devoted in his scientific
experiments. When the curtain goes up, we find Professor Corrie engrossed in
his experiment. His experiment is a success and he has succeeded in inventing a
lethal and devastating bomb, which is so powerful that according to him:
“I’ve
discovered a combination of explosives and gases that will obliterate thousands
at once! Thousands.”
The above
quoted words show the deep faith Corrie has in the destructive quality of the
bomb and his cruel nature and inhuman behaviour.
As A
Self-Willed Person
Professor Corrie is an extremely selfish and
self-willed person. He is out and out a materialist. He has discovered the
formula of the bomb to earn fame and fortune. He is delighted at the thought
that his invention would make him famous and well-known all over the world. He
did not care about the feeling of his sister wanted her rejoices his invention.
He wished her to forget her tragedy and suggested taking a broad point of view.
She must imagine herself a statesman. He said:
“Oh, a
mother’s feelings, of course, but look at the matter from a broad point of
view. Put you own feelings aside.”
As An
Unpatriotic Person
Professor Corrie is crazy and unpatriotic.
He wants to sell the formula of the bomb, to any government, which would pay
him the highest price. As he says:
“I shall
offer it first to the British Government, of course, but if they won’t pay my
price, I shall offer it to somebody else.”
The above
lines speak of his unpatriotism and greed for money.
As A
Cruel And Heartless Person
Professor Corrie possesses a very cruel
disposition. His eyes reflect the coldness and seriousness of his character. He
is a devil in human form. To him human beings are of no consequence. Even his
sister, Mrs. Meldon’s grief has no effect on him. Although he is aware that his
sister is emotionally shattered by the death of her son, Eddie, yet he does not
comfort or console her, at her tragic loss.
As An
Enemy of Women
Professor Corrie is cynical about women and
has a poor opinion of them. He thinks that women lack in concentration and have
a fussy and talkative nature. That is why they are not very often crowned with
success. According to him:
“Your sex
is most extraordinary, Charlotte. Always willing to break off things, for other
things. No application, no concentration, no capability for complete impersonal
devotion.”
Corrie’s
Desire For Immortality
Corrie was mad for immortality. That is why
he invented the bomb. He hopes:
“This
will bring fame and fortune to me. I shall be rich and now but more than that I
shall be famous. My name will live forever.”
Corrie’s
Tragic End
Mrs. Meldon is absolutely horrified, when
she learns of his terrible invention. She repeatedly requested him to destroy
the formula of the bomb. She says:
“Henry,
I beg you to destroy your invention.”
Professor Corrie pays no attention to her, so
Mrs. Meldon, in a state of frenzy, drove a sharp knife in his back. Corrie
falls on his face, dead cold. Thus the curtain draws on the play, with his
tragic end.
i want progress short question &
answers........plz send me
Reference
to Context from Play
The Count's Revenge
Lines
"It comes to this, ................. and we are ruined."
Reference
These words are put into the mouth of Albert. He
is addressing his mother, the Countess of Morcerf, in his own home,
Rue-du-Helder in Paris.
Explanation
Albert is extremely disturbed at the news, he
has read in the newspaper about his father's disgrace. He tells his mother, it
comes to this meaning that things have come to such a stage that his father is
openly and publicly disgraced in the newspaper. He says our honour and
self-respect are badly damaged by this disgrace and we are destroyed, we are
finished.
Lines
"My father's disgrace is mine ................. down into the
mire."
Reference
These lines are uttered by Albert. he is deeply
upset about his father's disgrace. It is on this issue that, he is talking to
his mother, the Countess of Morcerf.
Explanation
Albert is extremely sensitive. He just could not
tolerate his father's disgrace. He regards his father's disgrace, as his own.
He is ashamed, even to go by his father's name. He sys my father's name has
been utterly disgraced. Our disgrace has become the talk of town.
Lines
"Ah, the crime is .................. whom I shall punish."
Reference
Albert is the speaker of the above lines. He is
addressing his mother, the Countess of Morcerf, regarding the disgrace of his
father, the Count of Morcerf.
Explanation
He is obviously in disgust, at his mother's
suggestion that if the President of the Republic is to be blamed for the
disgrace of his father, he would kill him for it. He says, the Deputies are not
at fault for condemning my father. They merely performed their duty. After
seeing all the proofs, they pronounced my father guilty. I am not after the
one, who is behind my father's disgrace. The one who published the news of my
father's treachery in the press. He is the one I am after. He is the one I am
looking for and he is the one I shall punish.
Lines
"Why? Indeed! it is no ............. and of our good."
Reference
The above words are spoken by Albert to his
mother, the Countess of Morcerf.
Explanation
Albert answers his mother's question, as to why
he wishes to punish the man, who made his villainy public. He is says, it is
now, no longer a matter of right or wrong or of truth or falsehood. Meaning
that it is not whether or not his father is guilty of the crime. It is a
question of the family's honour and self-respect. Since the family's honour,
has been tarnished, he is going to punish the person, responsible for it.
Lines
"But, Ah! are the cloud .............. and returned to Paris."
Reference
The speaker in the above lines is Monte Cristo.
He is addressing his friend Albert in his house.
Explanation
Monte Cristo has come, to pay his compliments to
the Countess (his former beloved) and Albert. Monte Cristo, after paying his
regards to the Countess, turns to Albert. He takes him by the hand, but notices
the trace of anguish and worry, on his brow. He says, I see from the wrinkles
on your brow, that you are unhappy. That after returning to Paris, from
normally where we were holidaying together, you have doubtless, met with some
form of tragedy or the other. That's why the look of unhappiness on your face.
@import
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Lines
"I need hardly ask you .................. of my father's
disgrace."
Reference
Albert is the speaker in the above lines. He is
talking to his friend, the Count of Monte Cristo.
Explanation
Albert tells his friend, on his friend's inquiry
about his misfortune. Whole Paris is talking of it. Meaning that, you would
have heard about his father's disgrace.
Lines
"But, when a man has done ................. The rule|follow."
Reference
Monte Cristo is talking to his friend. Albert.
Explanation
He is in fact, replying to Albert's request for
his help to be his second in the duel that he intends to fight against his
father's enemy. Monte Cristo says, it would be difficult for him to be his
second.
He says if a man insults you, or hits you, a
blow then a duel is the best way of taking your revenge of him. Then adds
slowly and with deliberation that when a man does you a terrible harm, gives
you slow deep and perpetual pain then you should treat him in the same manner.
He says, if a man damage your eye, then you should also damage his eye. If he
breaks your tooth then you too would be justified in breaking his tooth.
In other words, Monte Cristo believes in
punishing in the same manner, as his enemy had harmed him. Monte Cristo, is
referring to the torture, Count of Morcerf, Albert's father inflicted upon him.
Lines
"It is Arab custom ............. of a deadly enemy."
Reference
The Countess of Morcerf is the speaker and she
is speaking to her son. Albert.
Explanation
The Countess is referring to an Arab custom.
which is that an Arab never eats or drinks, in the house of his deadly enemy.
Albert is astonished at this disclosure that his dear friend Monte Cristo has
never eaten or drunk in his house even though he is his dearest friend. But
Albert cannot understand in what way, can Monte Cristo be regarded as a deadly
enemy.
It is fairly obvious, the Countess is ware that,
under the grab of Monte Cristo, it is Edmond Pantes, her former lover, who
regards her house, as the house of his enemy (her husband).
Lines
"Ah, the mysterious stranger! .............. count want with
us."
Reference
The above lines are spoken by the Count of
Morcerf. He is speaking to Albert his only son.
Explanation
Morcerf is speaking in a sarcastic tone, to his
son about the frequent visits of the Count of Monte Cristo to his house. He
refers to him, as the mysterious stranger because Monte Cristo is a stranger
for him. Besides his visits to his own house have always been kept secretive.
So Morcerf says, what did the stranger the count who is foreign to him who has
created quite a stir in Paris, whan with them. In a sarcastic manner, he says
that did the noble, the handsome, the ever kind count want with us.
Lines
“I MEAN TO THROW --------------------- PIERCE HIM THROUGH THE HEART.”
Reference
The speaker is Albert and he is answering his
friend Beachamp, on his inquiry that he was serious about challenging Monte
Cristo, his father’s enemy.
Explanation
He clarifies, I mean to challenge the Count of
Monte Cristo. He says, I will give him choice of weapons and if he chooses
swords – being an expert swordsman, I would pierce the tip of my sword, through
his heart, at dawn, to-morrow morning. Albert has made up his mind about
avenging his family honour, despite the fact that Monte Cristo, is his friend.
Lines
“THE VILLAIN RESOLVED TO--------------------- HATCHED AGAINST MORTAL
MAN.”
Reference
These words are uttered by Monte Cristo. He is
addressing the Countess, who has gone to his house, to request him to spare her
son, Albert’s life.
Explanation
In answer to the Contess’s question, ‘why did he
disgrace her husband’? he bids her to sit down and narrates the story of how
her husband, Count of Morcerf formerly Fern and Mondego, hatched a devilish
plot to marry Mercedes. He plotted the plan to marry Mercedes (as the Countess
was formerly known. He was determined to win her hand. With the help of
plotters and schemers, he made a devilish plan to put Monte Cristo, out of the
way. It was the most terrible plot a person could ever plot against a human being.
With the help of false evidence, he got Monte Cristo, improved for 20 years in
an underground dungeon.
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Lines
“NO, EDMOND. I CANNOT ---------------- 14 YEARS OF WRONGFUL
IMPROSONMENT.”
Reference
The speaker in the above lines is the Countess
of Morcerf. She is addressing the Count of Monte Cristo.
Explanation
The countess had gone to Monte Cristo’s house,
to ask him, why he had brought about disgrace of her family and to request him
to spare the life of her son, Albert. Monte Cristo then narrated the events of
20 years ago, when he was condemned as a traitor to his country by the Count of
Morcerf then a fisherman. He was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment. But
luckily, after 14 years Monte Cristo escaped from the prison and pursued
Morcerf and finally disgraced him by publishing the news that it was he who was
a traitor. After learning the true facts, the Countess does not blame Monte
Cristo for humiliating her husband. She says even if you take a far more worse
revenge than you have for being wrongfully kept in prison for 14 years I shall
not blame you.
Lines
“I CANNOT EXPECT TO------------------- ADMIRE AND RESPECT YOU?”
Reference
The Countess of Morcerf is making a fervent
appeal to the Count of Monte Cristo to spare the life of her only son, Albert.
Explanation
She says, I cannot expect to have a deep
impression upon your heart nor expect to change you mind. But will you not
listen to the request of the one who loved you once who never willfully did you
any wrong and who has never stopped admiring or respecting you. Would you not
spare the life of my son. The Countess begs of Monte Cristo. This entreaty the
Countess makes after Monte Cristo, reveals him to her and narrates the events
of 20 years ago. How he was wrongfully confined to prison for 20 years by her
husband Morcerf and how he escaped after 14 years and disgraced her husband by
publishing the news that he had accepted bribes from the Turks and surrendered
to them, the fortress of Yanina in 1823. Thus after listening to Monte Cristo
story she implores him to save the life of her son, Albert.
Lines
“AH, MORREL. WHEN A------------------- THE HEART FROM HIS BREAST.”
Reference
This speech is made by Monte Cristo to his
friend, Morrel.
Explanation
Morrel had come to inform Monte Cristo (at
night), that all arrangements had been made about the duel. That it was to take
place at 8 O’clock, in the morning at Bois-de-Vincenes. Prior to uttering the
above words, Monte Cristo, signed his will and asked Morrel to be a witness. It
is then that Monte Cristo utters, the above words. He says to Morrel, when a
man decides to take his revenge, he should first of all remove his heart from
his chest. Monte Cristo is referring to the Countess whom he still admires and
due to whose entreaties, he agrees to spare his (Albert’s) life.
Lines
“NONETHELESS, I THINK THAT------------------- WISH IT WERE NOT.”
Reference
These words are spoken by the Countess of
Morcerf, to her husband the Count of Morcerf.
Explanation
They are discussing their son, Albert who had
gone to fight a duel against Monte Cristo for disgracing his father Count of
Morcerf. The duel was to have taken place at 8 O’clock. It is past 9 O’clock,
so both are concerned about Albert. Morcerf expresses his fear that Monte
Cristo is an excellent shot and it is he who will fire first. Despite his
apprehensions the Countess says, that it will be Albert, who will be victorious
in the duel. She knows that he will because she had requested Monte Cristo not
to kill her son. And Monte Cristo had promised not to kill Albert. But the
countess says, in some ways, she wished her son was not victorious because his
life would be saved but it would be Monte Cristo who will give his life.
Lines
“DOUBTLESS, THEN, YOU MADE------------------ GAVE SOME EXPLANATIONS.”
Reference
These are Morcerf’s words, which he addresses to
his son, Albert.
Explanation
He says these words because Albert informs his
father that the duel never took place. That he apologized to Monte Cristo. This
he did because the Countess unveiled the events of 20 years ago and told the
whole story of Morcerf’s crime to her son, Albert. She had requested Monte
Cristo, to spare the life of her son, Albert. Thus it is due to the efforts of
the countess, that Albert’s life is saved. On this, the count of Morcerf says
the above words. He says, without doubt, you must have apologized to Monte
Cristo or given some explanation that is why you are save.
Lines
“YOU HAVE CAME BACK ---------------- THE TOMB YOU SHALL RETURN.”
Reference
These words are spoken by the count of Morcerf,
to Monte Cristo.
Explanation
He is in great anger. He is astonished to find
that (Monte Cristo) Edmond Dantes, as he was known formerly (20 years ago) has
re-appeared before him. Count of Morcerf, through a conspiracy, condemned his
friend, Edmond Dantes to 20 years of imprisonment in an underground dungeon.
But after 14 years, Edmond Dantes escaped and came to Paris. Here he took the
title of the count of Monte Cristo. In order to take his revenge he published
the news of Morcerf’s crimes. That he had taken bribes from the Turks and
surrendered the fortress of Yanina, in 1823. Albert had challenged Monte Cristo
for disgracing his father. But because of the countess, both Albert and Monte
Cristo, don’t fight. The Countess took her son into confidence and told him all
about his father’s misdeeds. Likewise she apologized to Monte Cristo and begged
of him to spare her son’s life. Monte Cristo could not turn down the request of
his former beloved. Thus the duel is averted. Now Monte Cristo and Count of
Morcerf, come face to face. It is then, that Morcerf utters the above remarks.
He says, to Monte Cristo, that you have come back from you grave (underground
dungeon), and to the grave you shall return. Saying these words he pulls out a
pistol and points it towards Monte Cristo meaning to shoot him.
sonnet composed upon westminster bridge
this wonderful poem is written by willian
wordsworth , in this poem he describe the morning beauty of the city
once poet early in the morning went to
westminsterbridge from there he obserbed the beauty of city ,it was early in
the morning so the sun was rising up with its own beauty,the opening rays of
sun were peeping out and touching the hills and valleys, the whole city
appeared to be wrapped in white dim light .the ships,boats all were on the bank
of the river so there eas no disturbance in the river and was no pollution in
environment and were no clouds on the sky.it was looking that not only people
but even the houses of the city were sleeping cause there was no voice or
distribance in any direction the whole city was absorbed in complete silence it
was a charming season of nature.
The Importance of Chemistry in Daily Life (by
raja unar)
Most people have chosen to write their essay
about how chemistry has played an important role in everyday life. I have
chosen to ask, how doesn't it play a role in everyday life? The simple fact is
that chemistry plays an important role in every person's daily activities from
the moment we're born.
So what role does chemistry really play in
everyday life? Well, this involvement usually begins first thing each morning.
Most people wake up to an alarm or radio. These common household items contain
batteries, which make them very chemically dependent. These batteries contain
positive and negative electrodes. The positive electrode consists of a carbon
rod surrounded by a mixture of carbon and manganese dioxide. The negative
electrode is made of zinc. Chemistry plays an important role in the discovery
and understanding of materials contained in these and many other common
household items. Things like household cleaners and water purification systems
are vitally dependent on chemistry. Without chemistry something as simple as
scrubbing a toilet without fear of severe burns or small explosions might not
be possible.
Next, though it isn't widely known, chemistry is
also heavily involved with the manufacturing of things such as makeup and soap.
Each time you bathe you are witnessing chemistry at work. Chemicals such as
cetyl alcohol and propylene glycol are typical ingredients in the soap used to
wash your hair and skin. Without chemistry, these materials (or combinations of
these materials) might be hazardous or might not exist. The chemical coloring
agents used in makeup and nail polish would not be possible without an
understanding of the chemicals involved.
Almost anything you do during the course of a
normal day involves chemistry in some way. The gas and tires in cars we drive,
the makeup ladies put on their faces, the soaps and cleaners used everyday,
burning wood or other fossil fuels, chemistry is all around you each and every
day. The associations are practically limitless. So, as you go about your daily
activities, remember to thank chemistry. As my teacher always says, remember,
"CHEMISTRY IS LIFE!"
under the
greenwood tree (raja unar)
summary
This poem is written by William Shakespeare who is regarded
as
greatest dramatist in English literature.
In this poem poet explains the charms of
forest(village)life and
ask people to come and join him in forest cause
he poet says that you will
not find any enemy in forest, one can spend
peaceful life, there is no trouble
any other trouble without the trouble of
different seasons,
he also one who can struggle for his daily life
needs and satisfies with what he
gates from forest can enjoy the real peace of
life.
Central
Idea
Forest(village)life is preferable then cit
or town life cause the forest
life peaceful and closely contacted to beauty of
nature
The
character of happy life
(Summary)
This poem is composed by Sir Henry Wotton,
in this poem poet describe the character of a happy life.
In this poem poet talks about a virtuous man
poet says he is lucky man who enjoys an independent will power of his own he
does not serve others will ,he possess honest thoughts in his mind which save
from evils and bad deeds ,he gets this quality by birth or by education . this
noble deed keeps him away from jealousy and sin .
he always follow the rules of goodness and
religion , he is not ambition person and his hopes are limited, this man has
firm believe in heavenity reward . he prays to almighty Allah due to which he
enjoys a happy life.
CENTRAL
IDEA
A man who live his life according to
goodness and religion ,and if he is not worried about his wealth and fame and
does not jealous with other he is one who live happy life and a real peace of
life.
(BY RAJA
UNAR)
<LINES FROM THE DESERTED VILLAGE>>
(SUMMARY)
The author of this poem is Oliver Goldsmith,
who is regarded for his simple and graceful expression. in this poem he tells
about his native land the village of south of England.
The poet memorize his past life which he spended
in his village ,poet says they were very happy with the simple delights of life
,they enjoyed good health and the climate of the village was very pleasant,
there were places under bushes where they use to sit and lovers gossip there
and the old talks about the matter of village , there were the covered cottage
the harvested fields and never stopping canal of water and a busy mill ,and
every evening they all gather over a place in village and celebrate a small
kind of festival in which they enjoy different kind of programs and discuss the
problem of village ,the poet in the last says now the charms of village are
vanished because government imposed very high rate of revenue up on formers and
major portion of their production goes in hands of government in shape of taxes
so their living standard of villagers is going down day by day.
(CENTRAL
IDEA)
This poem emphasizes that the importance pf
a bold peasant cannot be ignored who is the backbone of the economy of his
country. A humble country man living a contented life does a great goal for his
country
(by raja unar)
Progress
Lines
I wish she wouldn’t dwell
-------------------- That’s all. Reference
Reference
Professor Corrie is speaking to his widowed
sister, Mrs. Meldon.
Explanation
Professor Corrie apologizes to his sister
for not having received her at the Station. He gives his experiment, as the
excuse. He says, he was very busy, hence he didn’t go. Then he informs Mrs.
Meldon, that big experiment is a great success. He has invented, just what he
had in mind. He has invented exactly the thing he wanted to make.
Professor Corrie is certain that his successful
experiment will make him famous, across the length and breath of the country
and bring him fortune as well. He is sure that he will be rich, but more than
that, he is convinced that he would be famous.
Lines
No, that’s true ------------------- is reticence!
Reference
Professor Corrie is talking to his bereaved
sister, Mrs. Meldon about his success.
Explanation
Mrs. Meldon, though pleased that Professor
Corrie’s experiment is a success has no inkling as to what his experiment is.
Professor Corrie acknowledges the fact that he
has not told her anything about his success. He confesses that he believes in
keeping secrets to himself. It is his principle in life, not to divulge
anything unless one is forced to. He says no one knows anything about his
invention, except himself.
In the Professor’s opinion, utter and complete
secrecy is essential for the success of any invention.
Lines
Of course they will -------------------- And
tin hats, too!
Reference
Professor Corrie is having a chat with his
sister, Mrs. Meldon. The talk is about Professor Corrie’s invention.
Explanation
Since Professor Corrie is so secretive about
his invention, Mrs. Meldon hasn’t the faintest idea, about his experiment.
Professor Corrie is confident that his invention is so great that, when the
British Government listens about his wonderful invention, they will jump for
it. Though he agrees with Mrs. Meldon’s doubt about it.
He says, it was extremely difficult to make the
cavalry generals, use the tanks, during the First World War. They were not
prepared to make use of the tanks, until they were forced to use them. Only
then, did they realize the value of the tank. He condemns them for not
realizing the value of tank and for not accepting it as a weapon of great value
and importance.
Likewise, the inventor of steel hats was not
suitably rewarded for his invention. Although, non cab deny the utility and
value of the steel helmets, in protecting the soldiers heads and also saving
their lives. Therefore, in contempt, as well as in anger he refers to the
cavalry generals as slaughterers of horses. That is they are useless good for
nothing generals fit only for slaughtering horses.
Lines
Oh, how women do fuss ! -------------
impersonal devotion.
Reference
Professor Corrie is speaking to his bereaved
sister, Mrs. Meldon. He is thoroughly annoyed with her, for harping on the same
string.
Explanation
Professor Corrie was eager and impatient, to
tell Mrs. Meldon about his successful invention, while Mrs. Meldon kept nagging
him by telling him :
Come along, Henry! Your tea will get cold.
This upset him very much. So in this context he
utters the above speech, in which he wrongfully condemns all women. He exclaims
at the fussiness of women – at their readiness to get excited about the
unimportant things. He condemns the women generally for breaking off important
things for unimportant and trivial things. He feels that women lack in the
desire to work with all devotion with al their heart and soul and with full
concentration etc.
Professor Corrie further adds, you women are not
fit for any single task, which requires complete devotion and energy, nor do
you care for the feelings of others. That’s is why he feels, women have never
been great artists or scientist.
Lines
You don’t realise -----------------------
butchery of boys.
Reference
In this passage, the speaker is Mrs. Meldon
and she is addressing her brother, Professor Corrie.
Explanation
In this speech, we detect Mrs. Meldon’s
hatred for war. When Professor Corrie mentions that his invention will create a
revolution in the field of warfare. Mrs. Meldon thought that Professor Corrie
had invented something, which would abolish warfare. On this remark, Professor
Corrie chides his sister for being so very childish.
Then Mrs. Meldon says, the abolition of war is a
subject after her heart. She tells Professor Corrie, you cannot imagine how
deeply women like me, who have suffered because of the war feel about warfare
which in her view is an organized manner in which young soldiers are
slaughtered and brutally killed.
Lines
Now, charlotte, when I say ------------ made
more expedits.
Reference
Professor Corrie is talking to Mrs. Meldon.
Explanation
He declines the offer of Mrs. Meldon to have
more tea. Then he prepares to explain about his invention.
He says, when I say that war should be
revolutionized, I mean that it should be made seedy. That is to say, that it
should end quickly. The First World War lasted for a ridiculous period of five
years. It is absolutely nonsense. The war should not have lasted for more than
five weeks.
Lines
Well – yes, I think you -----------------------
succumbs to it.
Reference
Professor Corrie is in deep conversation with
Mrs. Meldon about wars and how to end them speedily.
Explanation
Mrs. Meldon is under the false notion that
Professor Corrie has invented something, which would restrict the duration of
wars. While Professor Corrie had something different in mind. He explains, in
future, whenever war beaks out, the combatants should try their level best, to
strike at the enemy, with all the force at their command. That is to say, the
first attack should be so severe and devastating that the enemy would get
crushed at once. In this way, the wars of the future would end very quickly.
Lines
Oh, a mother’s feelings ----------------- own
feelings aside!
Reference
Professor Corrie is talking to his only sister,
Mrs. Meldon.
Explanation
Professor Corrie was earlier explaining to Mrs.
Meldon, about making the weapons of war, more horrible and devastating, in
order to end the wars quickly in future. Mrs. Meldon utters a sarcastic remark
saying that her son was 19, when he died and that was a horrible thing for her.
On this Professor Corrie state, you look at your
son’s death, from a mother’s point of view. Put your mother’s feelings aside
and look at your son’s death from a broad-point of view – the point of view of
the Government.
Lines
Yes. I’ve made tests,------- thousands at once.
Thousands!
Reference
Professor Corrie is speaking to Mrs. Meldon,
about his discovery.
Explanation
He says, I have made tests and I have succeeded
in having discovered a formula, which is exact and precise. It is a combination
of chemical elements and explosives, which would destroy thousands, so
completely, that not a trace shall be left. So devastating and lethal, is his
invention..
Lines
Cheerful view! ------------------- Stupidest man
on earth.
Reference
Mrs. Meldon is the speaker and she is talking to
her brother, Professor Corrie.
Explanation
Earlier in their talk, Professor Corrie states,
his invention would be available to his people. And if, a war comes along in
the future, his government will have only to drop their bomb on their enemy,
before they drop theirs on us and the war will have been won. On this Mrs.
Meldon remarks, rather sarcastically, it was someone like him, who invented the
kind of shell that, completely obliterated her son, Eddie. Professor Corrie
pats Mrs. Meldon on the shoulder and tries to comfort her. He asks her to take
a more cheerful view of life, rather than to keep lamenting on what happened in
the past.
It is in this context that Mrs. Meldon remarks,
rather angrily ------------cheerful view! Meaning how could she have a cheerful
view of life, with her only son and husband, having got killed because of the
war. Also, it was her son’s third death anniversary. So how could she be
cheerful. That is why she says that she sometimes wonders at him that in spite
of his cleverness, Mrs. Meldon regards him as the Stupidest man in this world.
Lines
Well of course ------------------- for a good
many Germans.
Reference
Professor Corrie is speaking to his bereaved
sister, Mrs. Meldon. He tries to console her after she narrates an emotional
account about Eddie, of how he was a child and then grew up to be a handsome
young man and how he was mutilated and destroyed.
Mrs. Meldon just could not overcome this tragic
news that her son’s body was mutilated. That there was no decency in his death.
So, she makes her point to Corrie that she cannot take a broad view of that.
On this Professor Corrie says sympathetically,
that he understands and appreciates, her point of view. He admits that he son’s
death as well as her husband’s is a grievous blow to her. It must have
shattered her emotionally. Therefore, he comforts and consoles her and asks her
to keep a check over her emotions. He also adds that we should take some
comfort from the thought that, Eddie, by sacrificing his life, did his duty to
his country. That, we should have some comfort from the thought that, Eddie
might have killed a great many Germans before getting killed.
Lines
Yes people with broad --------------------- are
a fool, Henry.
Reference
Mrs. Meldon is having a heart to heart chat with
her brother, Professor Corrie, regarding her son, Eddie.
Explanation
She narrates a long account about Eddie, right
from the time that he was born till the time he gets killed in the war. Mrs.
Meldon is grievously hurt about the fact that he son’s body was mutilated and
destroyed and that there was nothing to bury. She just cannot forget about her
son’s painful death. So she says,
You see, don’t you Henry, that I can’t take a
broad view of that.
Then Professor Corrie tries to comfort her by
saying that, we should take consolation from the fact that Eddie, must have
accounted for a good many Germans. But this thought does not comfort Mrs.
Meldon. In fact she makes it plain to Corrie and tells him that:
I can’t get any pleasure put of the thought that
some poor German is suffering just as I am suffering.
She further tells Professor Corrie that her
sympathies would be with the suffering German woman, rather than men like you.
People with broad-view (scientists), because you
create weapons, which kill young soldiers. Therefore she regards all scientists
as fools. She confesses that she is not clever and says, someone like me gives
birth to a beautiful thing (Eddie), and you guys (scientists), with all you
intelligence can only annihilate it and destroy it. As such, she regards henry,
her brother as a fool.
Lines
Really, Charlotte, you’re------------------
can’t be helped.
Reference
Professor Corrie is addressing his sister, Mrs.
Meldon in a thoroughly angry frame of mind.
Explanation
He blows his top, when Mrs. Meldon tells him, to
ask for “thirty pieces of sliver”, as the price for his invention.
The “thirty pieces of silver” are a reference to
the reward paid to Judas Iscariot, for betraying Jesus Christ. The phrase is
often used to describe a bribe, given to a traitor. Mrs. Meldon, of course is
not thinking of her brother, as a traitor to his country but to humanity in
general.
Therefore Professor Corrie is thoroughly
annoyed. He tells her, you are really unbreakable. He says, I bear a lot of
your nonsense because, you are in sorrow. But there is a limit to one’s
patience. He says, you have not even congratulated me, on my success. You don’t
even have goodness to compliment me, even briefly and unenthusiastically. You
have made yourself miserable by continuously feeling sorry over your son’s
death over which nothing can be done. You have made even Hannah, unhappy and
sad.
Lines
The fortune of war ------------------------ by a
bayonet.
Reference
Professor Corrie is talking to his sister, Mrs.
Meldon.
Explanation
Professor Corrie replies to Mrs. Meldon’s
remark, his bomb is horrible, as it will make the bodies of man, women and
little children rot, if it does not blow them to pieces. He says that it is the
luck of my dear charlotte. Death is death. And what differences does it make,
whether a man dies, by getting blown to pieces, by a bomb or got killed by
getting stabled to death, by a bayonet. In fact, the bomb is more merciful of
the two.
Lines
My dear Charlotte --------------- being damned
unpatriotic.
Reference
Professor Corrie is speaking to his unhappy
sister, Mrs. Meldon.
Explanation
He is replying to Mrs. Meldon’s suggestion that,
he should destroy his formula, as his invention will destroy precious lives.
He says, if he were to oblige her, most sensible
people would think that he had go mad. Only a few religious fanatics would
praise his action. But the majority of the people would think that I am an
idiot. Besides, they would consider my act, as unpatriotic, because it would
deprive my own country from being in a strong position.
Lines
My dear Charlotte----------------- destroy my
invention.
Reference
Professor Corrie is in conversation with Mrs.
Meldon.
Explanation
He is astounded at her suggestion, that he
should destroy his invention. He is convinced that her grief has loosened the
screws of her mind. He feels, her sorrow has made her mad. How could he destroy
his invention for which he has strived so hard – all his life. So, he regards
her suggestion, as nothing short of madness.
Lines
Of course it is --------------------- mess like
this!
Reference
Professor Corrie, a little annoyed is talking to
Mrs. Meldon.
Explanation
He tells her, the formula of the bomb is in my
mind. He made it from his own mind. He condemns her for making a terribly mess,
in his laboratory by smashing the retorts and test-tubes etc. Mrs. Meldon felt
that she had destroyed Professor Corrie’s invention.
Therefore, Professor Corrie says, even a foolish
woman, would have known that Professor Corrie had the invention in his mind. He
means, you are so stupid, that you don’t even know that, the formula of the
bomb, must be in my mind.
Reference to the Context from Prose
* Lines - Pakistan Zindabad
* Lines - Birkenhead Drill
Pakistan
Zindabad
INDEX
* 1 Reference
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
o 3.1 Explanation
* 4 Lines
o 4.1 Explanation
* 5 Lines
o 5.1 Explanation
Reference
The lines given for explanation are an
extract from the lesson, Pakistan Zindabad that has been taken from
Quaid-e-Azam, by John Walton.
Introduction
This essay sheds light upon the struggle of
the Muslims of South Asia to achieve a land of their own. It traces the history
of the efforts made by the Muslims during the period ranging from the adoption
of the Pakistan Resolution in March 1940 till the final freedom and setting up
of a sovereign homeland in August 1947. The first section of the essay
describes the arrival of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah at Karachi on 7th
August 1947. When he was accorded a warm enthusiastic welcome by the people and
when he outlined the basic beliefs and principles of the people of Pakistan,
laying stress upon the equality of all Pakistanis irrespective of religion,
casts, colour or creed. Then the essay points out to the main differences
between the Congress and the Muslim League, between the view points of Gandhi
and Jinnah, and their ultimate outcome in the shape of the two-nation theory
becoming a reality. The concluding part of the essay deals with the problems
facing the new nation of Pakistan in its initial years which incidentally
proved to be the final year in the life of the father of nation.
Lines
“THROUGH ALL THE EXCITEMENT OF THOSE FIRST
-------------------- REMAINED CALM, SERIOUS AND EVEN SEVERE."
Explanation
In the passage, the author is describing his
views, on the excitement generated among the people of Pakistan on the first
few days of their independence. Earlier the Quaid-e-Azam has landed at the
Mauripur Airport on August 7, 1947. He was given a rousing welcome by the
people of Karachi. The people in their millions, welcomed their Quaid, the
first Governor General of Pakistan. While the people were cheering with
excitement and joy, though Quaid remained calm and serious. He gave no sign of
his feelings, though, he too must have been delighted, at the tremendous joy,
which the crowd was expressing on his arrival. Those were the first few days in
the life of the young nation and the people were naturally, over-joyed. But
their Quaid, who made independence possible, looked very calm, serious and even
stern from appearance. He never revealed his feelings. He always kept his
feelings to himself.
Lines
“ALL THIS KILLING AND
DESTRUCTION--------------------- IS A FRIEND OF TOMORROW.”
Explanation
In the above passage the author is shedding
light on the shock and sense of horror of the Quaid at the brutal killing of
the Muslims, when they were trying to cross over to their country, Pakistan
from India. The author is highlighting Jinnah’s shock and grief at the
senseless killings and destruction of the Muslims, when they were coming over
to their homeland. Jinnah was a man of peace. He hated violence and cruelty at
all times. He was overcome with grief at the helplessness of the people, who
were massacred by the Indians. With all this killing and violence, Jinnah still
begged for peace and friendship with the Indians. Being neighbours, the Quaid
extended a hand of friendship, in the hope of lasting peace and prosperity.
That is why the Quaid hoped, that an enemy of today would become a friend
tomorrow. But alas! This was not to be.
Lines
“BY THE FORCE OF HIS DETERMINATION
----------------------- NATION IN THE WORLD.”
Explanation
In the above passage the author is highlighting
the leadership qualities of the Quaid-e-Azam. There are no two opinions about
the Quaid’s leadership as well as his iron determination. By the force of the
Quaid’s leadership as well as his determination, he formed the Muslims of India
into a nation, who were once a small defeated entity, with nothing to hope for
into a great force. The Quaid united the Muslims into one forceful unit, in an
empire, which was ruled by the British. When the Muslims emerged as an
independent nation, they became the greatest of Muslim states and the fifth largest
nation in the world. This is a great tribute to the Quaid’s leadership, that he
and the Muslims of India stuck to their guns and carried the day. But for the
Quaid’s leadership and iron will, this may not have been possible.
Birkenhead
Drill
INDEX
* 1 Reference
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
o 3.1 Explanation
* 4 Lines
o 4.1 Explanation
* 5 Lines
o 5.1 Explanation
Reference
The lines given for explanation has been
taken from Asok Readers, Book III. The lines given for explanation are an
extract from the lesson, Pakistan Zindabad that has been taken from
Quaid-e-Azam, by John Walton.
Introduction
Birkenhead Drill is a story of extravagant
deed of heroism and shvarism shown by the soldiers of British Army. The
Birkenhead Drill was a troop ship, which come across with sudden accident which
has brought a dramatic change in the life of soldiers. Birkenhead Drill means
Women and Children first is the order followed on all ships that are in danger.
Birkenhead Drill means today to stand be still facing certain death so that the
weaker ones may have a chance of life.
“SOME
PEOPLE BORN GREAT
SOME
PEOPLE HAVE GREATNESS
SOME
PEOPLE ACHIEVE GREATNESS
WE
SHOULD MAKE OUR LIFES SUBLIME”
Lines
“IT LAY HIDDEN UNDER THE------------------- ALL
UNCONSCIOUS OF ITS FATE.”
Explanation
A troop ship Birkenhead, was heading towards
Capetown in South Africa. It was carrying 630 British soldiers and their
families. The Birkenhead was almost at the end of its uneventful journey. But
alas! It was destined to be destroyed in the near future. Forty miles before
Capetown, was a rock, which was hidden under the surface of the sea. This rock
was unknown in 1851. Hence it was not shown in any of the maps of the sea. The
Birkenhead was heading straight for it, all ‘unconscious of its fate’. It was
about 2 a.m. in the early hours of morning, when this terrible accident took
place. The author has used a lovely simile, in comparing the hidden rock, to a
wild animal of the sea, who is lying in wait, for its victim. The unfortunate
victim (Birkenhead), being blissfully unaware of its fate, that it was destined
to be doomed, soon. Whatever the staff on board the Birkenhead might be
thinking at that moment, no one had the idea that very soon they were going to
meet their end. That the Birkenhead would collide against the hidden rock and
that, most of them would die.
Lines
“ANY
PASSENGER WHO COULD NOT --------------------- ONCE WHO MIGHT FALL INTO THE
WAVES.”
Explanation
In the above extract, the author states that
after the Birkenhead had been destroyed, by crushing against the hidden rock
most of the life boats were either destroyed completely or badly damaged. Only
three lifeboats were in a useful condition. Each life boat could carry about 60
passengers, which meant the lives of only 180 passengers could be saved. In the
given passage the author states that, one who could not get a place in one of
the life boats fared certain death – death by drowning or worse. The sea was
alive with sharks. Their cruel and fearful jaws awaited the unfortunate ones,
who might fall into the sea. There was no hope of any ones survived, who might
fell into the sea waves.
Lines
“BIRKENHEAD DRILL – WOMEN AND
CHILDREN--------------- WEAKER ONES MAY HAVE A CHANCE OF LIFE."
Explanation
‘Birkenhead Drill’ is an order, which was given
by the commander of the troops. It was given in the face of utter crises. The
lives of over 600 passengers were at stake on he line. It was a crisis of the
highest magnitude. The commander wanted to save the lives of 170 women and children.
So he ordered his men, to stand in proper drill formation, and form queues. The
soldiers obeyed the call of their commander and sacrificed their lives for a
noble cause – the 170 precious lives of women and children. It has now become
customary for the captain of the ship to say ‘Birkenhead Drill’ whenever a ship
is in danger. This is the signal for the crew of the ship to stand at attention
and save the lives of the weaker ones – the women, children and the sick
Summary
from Prose
* Birkenhead Drill
* The Hostile Witness
* My Bank Account
* The Wolves of Cernogratz
Birkenhead
Drill
Introduction
Birkenhead Drill is a story of extravagant
deed of heroism and shvarism shown by the soldiers of British 963Army. The
Birkenhead Drill was a troop ship, which come across with sudden accident which
has brought a dramatic change in the life of soldiers.
Birkenhead Drill means Women and Children First
is the order followed on all ships that are in danger. Birkenhead Drill means
today to stand be still facing certain death so that the weaker ones may have a
chance of life.
“Some
people born great
Some
people have greatness
Some
people achieve greatness
We should
make our lifes sublime”
Summary
Birkenhead Drill was a military ship. In February 1851, it
was going to South Africa with troops and their families. There were a total of
six hundred and thirty people on board out of which one hundred and seventy
were women and children. The rest were inexperienced military men and officers.
At 2 a.m. on 25th February, when this ship was near Cape Town, it strokes a
massive rock that was not shown on any of the maps. This sudden jerk broke the
ship into two pieces. The front half soon sank but the hind half stayed afloat.
Most of the people manage to reach the rear part. There were only 3 lifeboats
left undamaged with a capacity of 60 persons per boat. Only 180 people could be
saved in this way. The others would draw because the damaged military ship
could not float much longer. This situation should have caused a panic on the
ship. Unlike other happenings, there was no panic or confusion in the boat. The
trained soldiers managed complete discipline and were successful in
transferring some women and children into the lifeboats. The captain and
soldiers stood line by line as if they were on their daily drill. Every one was
loyal to his duty and himself. A commander set an example by giving his life
for two young soldiers. When the commander was hanging on to some piece of
wood, he saw two young soldiers struggling in the water. He allowed them to
hold on wreckage. But the commander realized that the wreckage could not bear
the weight of the three persons so he let go his hold and went into the water
for ever. Due to complete management of discipline, 194 people were saved but
436 men drowned forever in the deep waters. Moral The undiminished order of the
soldiers presented in the article reflects the quality of sacrifice and
devotion in mankind. We should stand till facing certain fate so that the weak
ones may have a chance to live. This has been known as Birkenhead Drill since
then.
“DUTY,
THAT WHICH STERNLY IMPELS US IN THE DIRECTION OF PROFIT, ALONG THE LINE OF DESIRE.”
The
Hostile Witness
Introduction
The Hostile Witness is a detective story by
D.Y. Morgan. In this story he depicts the character of a person who was not
satisfied with the performance of the state Police, but he changed his views
when witnesses the performance of the police in arresting a dangerous murderer
at large.
Summary
Norman Charlton is a robber and a murderer.
He lives as a servant in White Hart Hotel. This hotel is in Kirby, a small
Yorkshire town about 32 kilometers south of Darlington. He robbed the weekly
wages of two people at New Castle, who were going to their factory carrying
thousands of pounds. While committing the robbery, he faces protest from the
two persons. In reply he shoots them. One of them, named John Edward Robson,
gets killed while the other becomes seriously wounded. Charlton escapes in a
stolen sports car from the place of robbery. After reaching a safe place, he
leaves the car and asks for a lift at about a hundred yards from that point.
Fortunately, he gets a lift from Mr. Earnest King who was on his way to White
Hart Hotel. When they reach the hotel, Charlton transfers the stolen bag from
Mr. King’s car into the hotel and places it behind the reception desk. He also
puts King’s luggage in a room and gets dressed in his white jacket. He leaves
the weapon of murder under the mattress. Mr. King sits in the lounge and orders
for cold drink. While enjoying cold drink, Mr. Abott and two other guests, Mr.
Cartor and Johnson enter the room. They exchange greetings and then Mr. King
gets informed about the robbery and the murder. Mr. Cartor also tells about the
checking of his car by the police. While they were talking about the robbery,
three persons, Detective-Sergeant Manning and Police Constable Stevens and
Edwards, enter the hotel. They told the people about the security and said that
their duty was to check all the hotels in the North of England.
Detective-Sergeant Manning asks for the keys of the rooms so that he could
check the luggage of the guests. Everyone gives them the keys except Mr. King,
who thinks that this action was unrespectable. But after some discussion he
also gives the keys. the detective then go up to check the rooms. When they
return, one of them holds a pistol in his hand, which had been fired recently.
He tells that this pistol was laid under the mattress in Mr. King’s room. He
suspects Mr. King for the murder. Charlton takes advantages of this situation
and gives the description of the murderer – medium height and build, fresh
complexion, dark hair, moustache, horn-rimmed glasses, Grey suit and Grey hat.
This description exactly suited the dressing of Mr. King, which made him more
mistrustful and every body stares at him. Charlton also gives the bag of money
having massive locks from behind the reception desk and says that this bag was
carried by Mr. King. Suddenly, Manning turns at Charlton and orders the
constable to arrest him. He suspected him of the spirit gum and fake moustaches
that were left on his upper lip. The lift which he had taken from Mr. King made
him more suspicious. He also asks him of horn-rimmed glasses and receives the
answer in positive. Manning then arrests him and tells the people how Charlton
had committed the crime. He hid the pistol under the mattress in Mr. King’s
room while he as keeping the luggage and threw away his fake moustache soon
after killing the person. He had then taken lift from Mr. King at a bus stop
near Great North Road and gotten away safely from the police. This entire work
carried out by the police really impressed Mr. King and the killer was caught
My Bank
Account
Introduction
My Bank Account is written by Stephen
Leacock. He is one of the most popular mockers and article writer. His witty
articles are the best example of sardonic Mockery. The most of his stories like
Brown Eyes, Freedom Cost, Behind the Table are written in first person style.
“CONFIDENCE WITH FEAR LEAD TO MOCKERY.”
___________________________________ Stephen
Summary
Our author had a particular kind of fear
about banks. Every time he entered a bank, to do business, he felt awfully
frightened. The author was afraid of banks but he had to go to a bank, as he
received a raise in his salary. As he entered the bank his fear overlook him.
In this panic, the author made number of stupid mistakes. He entered the bank
and demanded to see the manager alone. The author was taken to a private room.
The manager was convinced that the author was millionaire who wished to deposit
millions of dollars. But the manager was very upset, when he learn that the
author wanted to deposit, fifty six dollars and that he would deposit fifty
dollars every month. Quite obviously the manager was irritated and directed him
to the accountant, so that his account could be opened, which was duly done.
After having deposited fifty-six dollars. The author wanted to withdraw six
dollars for his current use. In his nervousness, the author made a blunder.
Instead of writing a cheque for six dollars he had written fifty-six dollars.
The accountant looked at him in astonishment and asked if he wanted to withdraw
all his money. The author realized his mistake, but wanted to cover up his
stupidness. So he replied he wanted to draw all his money. Author was feeling
miserable and he want to rush out of the bank sooner than he received his
money, he rushed out of the bank as he did so, a loud burst of laughter went up,
to the roof of the bank
The
Wolves of Cernogratz
Introduction
This is an interesting story about
supernatural forces and strange happenings written by Saki H.H. Munro. The
author is well known for his tales of mystery and magical powers. The story is
about an old castle and its owners, the Cernogratz family who had to sell off
their family castle, when their fortune turned against them. Thus, they
abondoned their ancestral family castle. As time went by, the castle was
purchased by Gruebel family.
Summary
One of the last days of December, the
Baroness, the new owner of the Cernogratz Castle, was engaged in a friendly
conversation with her guests. She was telling them about a strange legend
attached to the castle. She said that whenever someone died in the castle, all
the wild beasts and wolves would appear from nowhere and start howling all
night long. But she quickly brushed this legend aside by saying that, it is
only a gimmick to enhance the value of castle. She also said that she did not
believe in the legend as she had proof that nothing of the sort ever happened.
When her old mother-in-law died in the castle, nothing of the sort happened and
no wolves appeared. According to her it was utter rubbish and that there was no
truth in the legend. That the people had merely invented a story so as to give
cheap publicity to the place. On hearing this account, Amalie von Cernogratz,
an old governess employed in the house, remarked:
“THE STORY IS NOT AS YOU HAVE TOLD IT. IT IS NOT
WHEN ANY ONE DIES IN THE CASTLE, THAT THE HOWLING IS HEARD. IT IS ONLY HEARD,
WHEN A MEMBER OF THE CERNOGRATZ FAMILY, DIES IN HIS FAMILY CASTLE THAT THE
WOLVES APPEAR IN THEIR THOUSANDS AND START HOWLING.”
The Governess strongly protested and insisted
that the legend was quite true. She knew the family legend very well, as she
was the last of the great Cernogratz family. The old Governess repeated the
actual legend in a note of defiance, almost in contempt. She made it quite
clear that no howling was heard if a stranger died in the castle. But if a
cernogratz died in his family castle, not only did the wolves would howl in
chorus, but also a large tree would crash in the park as the soul of the dying
one left its body. Naturally the company showed its disbelief. They thought
that the old lady is pretending to be an important person. She knows that she
will be soon past work and she wants to appeal to our sympathies. That the old
Amalie is making a false claim to be a Cernogratz. When the old Governess left
the room, the Baroness and her guests were convinces that, she is an ordinary
woman and had some how learnt the Cernogratz legend from the peasants living in
the vicinity. Later on, some mysterious happenings proved every word of the old
governess. It so happened that the old governess fell ill and confined herself
to her small, cheerless room. Just then the company heard the howling of
wolves. Moved by some impulse, the Baroness went to the Governess’s room. To
her horror, she found, all the windows open, despite the biting cold, while the
old lady was lying on the couch terribly sick. The Baroness rushed forward to
shut the windows. But the Governess forbade her in a very stern manner. She
asked the Baroness to leave and let the windows be open, as she wanted to hear
the “Death Music” of her family. The Baroness announced to her guests that the
old governess was dying. While the guests were talking, they heard a loud noise
of a tree splitting and then crashing down, with a loud thud. At that moment,
the governess breathed her last. The news of Amalie-von-Cernogratz’s death and
her affiliation to the Cernogratz family was confirmed in the newspaper, the
following day. Amalie, the valued fried of the Baron and Baroness Gruebel had
passed away in her old family castle.
The
Wolves of Cernogratz
Introduction
This is an interesting story about
supernatural forces and strange happenings written by Saki H.H. Munro. The
author is well known for his tales of mystery and magical powers. The story is
about an old castle and its owners, the Cernogratz family who had to sell off
their family castle, when their fortune turned against them. Thus, they
abondoned their ancestral family castle. As time went by, the castle was
purchased by Gruebel family.
Summary
One of the last days of December, the
Baroness, the new owner of the Cernogratz Castle, was engaged in a friendly
conversation with her guests. She was telling them about a strange legend
attached to the castle. She said that whenever someone died in the castle, all
the wild beasts and wolves would appear from nowhere and start howling all
night long. But she quickly brushed this legend aside by saying that, it is
only a gimmick to enhance the value of castle. She also said that she did not
believe in the legend as she had proof that nothing of the sort ever happened.
When her old mother-in-law died in the castle, nothing of the sort happened and
no wolves appeared. According to her it was utter rubbish and that there was no
truth in the legend. That the people had merely invented a story so as to give
cheap publicity to the place. On hearing this account, Amalie von Cernogratz,
an old governess employed in the house, remarked:
“THE STORY IS NOT AS YOU HAVE TOLD IT. IT IS NOT
WHEN ANY ONE DIES IN THE CASTLE, THAT THE HOWLING IS HEARD. IT IS ONLY HEARD,
WHEN A MEMBER OF THE CERNOGRATZ FAMILY, DIES IN HIS FAMILY CASTLE THAT THE
WOLVES APPEAR IN THEIR THOUSANDS AND START HOWLING.”
The Governess strongly protested and insisted
that the legend was quite true. She knew the family legend very well, as she
was the last of the great Cernogratz family. The old Governess repeated the
actual legend in a note of defiance, almost in contempt. She made it quite
clear that no howling was heard if a stranger died in the castle. But if a
cernogratz died in his family castle, not only did the wolves would howl in
chorus, but also a large tree would crash in the park as the soul of the dying
one left its body. Naturally the company showed its disbelief. They thought
that the old lady is pretending to be an important person. She knows that she
will be soon past work and she wants to appeal to our sympathies. That the old
Amalie is making a false claim to be a Cernogratz. When the old Governess left
the room, the Baroness and her guests were convinces that, she is an ordinary woman
and had some how learnt the Cernogratz legend from the peasants living in the
vicinity. Later on, some mysterious happenings proved every word of the old
governess. It so happened that the old governess fell ill and confined herself
to her small, cheerless room. Just then the company heard the howling of
wolves. Moved by some impulse, the Baroness went to the Governess’s room. To
her horror, she found, all the windows open, despite the biting cold, while the
old lady was lying on the couch terribly sick. The Baroness rushed forward to
shut the windows. But the Governess forbade her in a very stern manner. She
asked the Baroness to leave and let the windows be open, as she wanted to hear
the “Death Music” of her family. The Baroness announced to her guests that the
old governess was dying. While the guests were talking, they heard a loud noise
of a tree splitting and then crashing down, with a loud thud. At that moment,
the governess breathed her last. The news of Amalie-von-Cernogratz’s death and
her affiliation to the Cernogratz family was confirmed in the newspaper, the
following day. Amalie, the valued fried of the Baron and Baroness Gruebel had
passed away in her old family castle
Birkenhead
Drill
INDEX
* 1 Reference
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
o 3.1 Explanation
* 4 Lines
o 4.1 Explanation
* 5 Lines
o 5.1 Explanation
Reference
The lines given for explanation has been
taken from Asok Readers, Book III. The lines given for explanation are an
extract from the lesson, Pakistan Zindabad that has been taken from
Quaid-e-Azam, by John Walton.
Introduction
Birkenhead Drill is a story of extravagant
deed of heroism and shvarism shown by the soldiers of British Army. The
Birkenhead Drill was a troop ship, which come across with sudden accident which
has brought a dramatic change in the life of soldiers. Birkenhead Drill means
Women and Children first is the order followed on all ships that are in danger.
Birkenhead Drill means today to stand be still facing certain death so that the
weaker ones may have a chance of life.
“SOME PEOPLE BORN GREAT
SOME
PEOPLE HAVE GREATNESS
SOME
PEOPLE ACHIEVE GREATNESS
WE SHOULD
MAKE OUR LIFES SUBLIME”
Lines
“IT LAY HIDDEN UNDER THE------------------- ALL
UNCONSCIOUS OF ITS FATE.”
Explanation
A troop ship Birkenhead, was heading towards
Capetown in South Africa. It was carrying 630 British soldiers and their
families. The Birkenhead was almost at the end of its uneventful journey. But
alas! It was destined to be destroyed in the near future. Forty miles before
Capetown, was a rock, which was hidden under the surface of the sea. This rock
was unknown in 1851. Hence it was not shown in any of the maps of the sea. The
Birkenhead was heading straight for it, all ‘unconscious of its fate’. It was about
2 a.m. in the early hours of morning, when this terrible accident took place.
The author has used a lovely simile, in comparing the hidden rock, to a wild
animal of the sea, who is lying in wait, for its victim. The unfortunate victim
(Birkenhead), being blissfully unaware of its fate, that it was destined to be
doomed, soon. Whatever the staff on board the Birkenhead might be thinking at
that moment, no one had the idea that very soon they were going to meet their
end. That the Birkenhead would collide against the hidden rock and that, most
of them would die.
Lines
“ANY
PASSENGER WHO COULD NOT --------------------- ONCE WHO MIGHT FALL INTO THE
WAVES.”
Explanation
In the above extract, the author states that
after the Birkenhead had been destroyed, by crushing against the hidden rock
most of the life boats were either destroyed completely or badly damaged. Only
three lifeboats were in a useful condition. Each life boat could carry about 60
passengers, which meant the lives of only 180 passengers could be saved. In the
given passage the author states that, one who could not get a place in one of
the life boats fared certain death – death by drowning or worse. The sea was
alive with sharks. Their cruel and fearful jaws awaited the unfortunate ones,
who might fall into the sea. There was no hope of any ones survived, who might
fell into the sea waves.
Lines
“BIRKENHEAD DRILL – WOMEN AND
CHILDREN--------------- WEAKER ONES MAY HAVE A CHANCE OF LIFE."
Explanation
‘Birkenhead Drill’ is an order, which was given
by the commander of the troops. It was given in the face of utter crises. The
lives of over 600 passengers were at stake on he line. It was a crisis of the
highest magnitude. The commander wanted to save the lives of 170 women and
children. So he ordered his men, to stand in proper drill formation, and form
queues. The soldiers obeyed the call of their commander and sacrificed their
lives for a noble cause – the 170 precious lives of women and children. It has
now become customary for the captain of the ship to say ‘Birkenhead Drill’
whenever a ship is in danger. This is the signal for the crew of the ship to
stand at attention and save the lives of the weaker ones – the women, children
and the sick
Reference
to the Context from Poetry
* Lines - Under the Green Wood Tree
* Lines - The Character of a Happy Life
* Lines - The Deserted Village
* Lines - The Lay of the Last Minstrel
* Lines - Sonnet Composed Upon West Minster
Bridge
* Lines - Lucy Gray
* Lines - The Toys
* Lines - Incident of the French Camp
Lines -
Under the Green Wood Tree
INDEX
* 1 Reference to the Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
Reference
to the Context
Introduction
The lines given for explanation are an
extract from the poem Under the Green Wood Tree which is the title of a song
taken from the play, As You Like It written by William Shakespeare. The play
tells the story of two brothers, the Elder Duke and the younger brother, Duke
Frederick. The younger brother is very greedy, selfish and ambitious and wishes
to usurp the dukedom. He forces the Elder Duke to go into exile and pass the
rest of his life in the forest of Arden. The Elder Duke is accompanied by some
his devoted companions and followers. Among them is Lord Amiens, who is gifted
with a very sweet, melodious voice. The lines given for explanation are an
extract from one of the songs sung by him. In this song, he desribes the
pleasant and carefree life of the forest. He also extends an open invitation to
anyone who wishes to join him in that cheerful surrounding. Such a person
should be free from all worldly wishes, and should feel happy and contented to
live in the open, natural environment. The only problem one has to face there
is the harsh unbearable winter weather.
Lines
UNDER THE GREEN WOOD TREE
WHO LOVES TO LIE WITH ME,
AND TURN HIS MERRY NOTE
UNTO THE SWEET BIRD’S THROAT,
COME HITHER, COME HITHER, COME HITHER:
HERE SHALL HE SEE
NO ENEMY
BUT WINTER AND ROUGH WEATHER
Explanation
In these lines, the singer is giving an open
invitation to any one who wishes to join him in the forest of Arden. The singer
desires the newcomer to rest under the shady trees and sing a song in such a
manner that his voice mingles with the sweet notes of the bird to produce one
single harmony. The singer reminds that the life of the forest is free from all
enmity and petty rivalries. The only snag in the life of the forest is the
unpleasant and unbearable winter wind. If one is brave and willing enough to
endure the harshness of the weather, the life of the forest is almost an ideal
one.
Lines
WHO DOTH AMBITION SHUN,
AND LOVES TO LIVE I’ THE SUN,
SEEKING THE FOOD HE EATS,
AND PLEASED WITH WHAT HE GETS-
COME HITHER, COME HITHER, COME HITHER,
HERE SHALL HE SEE
NO ENEMY
BUT WINTER AND ROUGH WEATHER
Explanation
In the lines given for contextual explanation,
the singer is laying down certain conditions to be fulfilled by one who wishes
to come and pass his life in the forest of Arden. In the first place, such a
person should have no worldly wishes. He should not be materialistic in his
approach and should never run after fame, wealth, power and glory. He should be
willing to pass his life in the open atmosphere under the bright sun. He should
look for his own sustenance and nourishment and should be contented with whatever
he gets to eat. The singer reiterates that the life of the forest is free from
all anxieties, problems and difficulties except the unpleasantness of the
chilly winter weather.
Lines -
The Character of a Happy Life
INDEX
* 1 Reference to the Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
* 7 Lines
* 8 Explanation
* 9 Lines
* 10 Explanation
* 11 Lines
* 12 Explanation
* 13 Lines
* 14 Explanation
Reference
to the Context
Introduction
The lines given for explanation are an
extract from the poem, The Character of a Happy Life written by Sir Henry
Wotton. In this moralizing piece of writing, the poet points to the sterling
qualities of head and heart needed in a person to lead a life of contentment
and bliss. Such a person should enjoy full freedom and should never be dictated
by others. He should remain steadfast and firm on the path of honesty.
Truthfulness should be his most prominent trait. He should exercise complete
control over his passion and should never be swept away by his emotions. He
should be brave enough to face all the challenges in life and should have the
courage to encounter death any moment. He should believe in simplicity and keep
away from the evils of jealousy and flattery. The accumulation of wealth and
the acquisition of worldly name and fame should never be his goal in life. He
should be pious and God-fearing and pass his time in healthy activities. Such a
person may bot be playing in riches but he is gifted with all the noble
qualities required by a person to lead a contented life.
Lines
HOW HAPPY IS HE BORN OR TAUGHT
THAT SERVETH NOT ANOTHER’S WILL:
WHOSE ARMOUR IS HIS HONEST THOUGHT
AND SIMPLE TRUTH HIS UTMOST SKILL!
Explanation
In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is
referring to three outstanding characteristics of a person willing to pass a
happy, contented life. Such a person should be independent in all his actions.
He should never be a slave to the will of others. His honest and humble
thoughts prove to be his best protective device and truthfulness is his most
outstanding and remarkable feature.
Lines
WHOSE PASSIONS NOT HIS MASTERS ARE,
WHOSE SOUL IS STILL PREPARED FOR DEATH,
UNTIED UTO THE WORLD BY CARE
OF PUBLIC FAME, OR PRIVATE BREATH;
Explanation
The lines given for explanation bring out some
prominent qualities of a person who wishes to life a cheerful, satisfied life.
He should have full control over his feelings and should never be swayed by his
emotions. He should not be afraid of death and should be bold enough to encounter
all the ups and downs in life. He should follow the path of simplicity and
sobriety. He should not care for the individual and collective opinion form
about him. He should never run after earthly name and fame.
Lines
WHO ENVIES NONE THAT CHANCE DOTH RAISE,
NOR VICE; WHO NEVER UNDERSTOOD
HOW DEEPEST WOUNDS ARE GIVEN BY PRAISE;
NOR RULES OF STATE, BUT RULES OF GOOD;
Explanation
In these lines, the poet is referring to the
qualities needed in a person desirous of leading a simple, innocent life. Such
a person never fall a victim to the green-eyed monster by looking at others who
acquire wealth and reputation. He never gets involved in any kind of evil of
sight, speech or hearing. He is not interested in politics and government and
is simply aware of the golden principles of a life without ostentation. He
realizes that flattery is harmful for both who is flattered and the one who is
over-praising. Thus he keeps away from false praise at all cost.
Lines
WHO HATH HIS LIFE FROM RUMOURS FREED;
WHOSE CONSCIENCE IS HIS STRONG RETREAT;
WHOSE STATE CAN NEITHER FLATTERERS FEED,
NOR RUIN MAKE OPPRESSORS GREAT;
Explanation
In the lines given for explanation, the poet
believes that a person who wants to live a simple, contented life keeps his
life free from rumours by never trying to become a public figure. Such a person
always depends upon his conscience and acts according to it. He is not so
affluent that people may flatter him and take undue advantage of his wealthy
state. Such flatterers often fill their own coffers but when their benefactors
are ruined and deprived of their wealth, they accuse them and find all kinds of
faults in them.
Lines
WHO GOD DOTH LATE AND EARLY PRAY
MORE OF HIS GRACE THAN GIFTS TO LEND;
AND ENTERTAINS THE HARMLESS DAY
WITH A RELIGIOUS BOOK OR FRIEND
Explanation
The lines given for elucidation points to one of
the salient features of the character of a person wishing to live a happy life.
Such a person is religious-minded, morally sound, pious and God-fearing. He
prays to Almighty God whenever it is possible. He asks God for his benevolence
and blessings and not for worldly comfort and luxuries. He passes his time in
healthy activities by reading good books or being in the company of good,
virtuous friends.
Lines
-THIS MAN IS FREED FROM SERVILE BANDS
OF HOPE TO RISE, OR FEAR TO FALL:
LORD OF HIMSELF, THOUGH NOT OF LANDS,
AND HAVING NOTHING, YET HATH ALL.
Explanation
The lines given for explanation present in a
nutshell all the advantages of having sterling qualities of head and heart, so necessary
to pass a life of joy and satisfaction. A person who is the master of his won
will, follows the path of honesty, truthfulness, simplicity, piety and
self-confidence, and is courageous enough to face all the challenges, can
definitely lead a life of contentment. He is not bound by the chains of
slavery, and has neither the hope of achieving loftier goals nor the fear of
suffering a fall. He is not a feudal lord, possessing big estates but is lord
of himself, having all the noble qualities. Thus he is able to pass his life in
ease, joy and comfort
Lines - The Character of a Happy
Life
INDEX
* 1 Reference to the Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
* 7 Lines
* 8 Explanation
* 9 Lines
* 10 Explanation
* 11 Lines
* 12 Explanation
* 13 Lines
* 14 Explanation
Reference
to the Context
Introduction
The lines given for explanation are an extract
from the poem, The Character of a Happy Life written by Sir Henry Wotton. In
this moralizing piece of writing, the poet points to the sterling qualities of
head and heart needed in a person to lead a life of contentment and bliss. Such
a person should enjoy full freedom and should never be dictated by others. He
should remain steadfast and firm on the path of honesty. Truthfulness should be
his most prominent trait. He should exercise complete control over his passion
and should never be swept away by his emotions. He should be brave enough to
face all the challenges in life and should have the courage to encounter death
any moment. He should believe in simplicity and keep away from the evils of
jealousy and flattery. The accumulation of wealth and the acquisition of
worldly name and fame should never be his goal in life. He should be pious and God-fearing
and pass his time in healthy activities. Such a person may bot be playing in
riches but he is gifted with all the noble qualities required by a person to
lead a contented life.
Lines
HOW HAPPY IS HE BORN OR TAUGHT
THAT SERVETH NOT ANOTHER’S WILL:
WHOSE ARMOUR IS HIS HONEST THOUGHT
AND SIMPLE TRUTH HIS UTMOST SKILL!
Explanation
In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is
referring to three outstanding characteristics of a person willing to pass a
happy, contented life. Such a person should be independent in all his actions.
He should never be a slave to the will of others. His honest and humble
thoughts prove to be his best protective device and truthfulness is his most
outstanding and remarkable feature.
Lines
WHOSE PASSIONS NOT HIS MASTERS ARE,
WHOSE SOUL IS STILL PREPARED FOR DEATH,
UNTIED UTO THE WORLD BY CARE
OF PUBLIC FAME, OR PRIVATE BREATH;
Explanation
The lines given for explanation bring out some
prominent qualities of a person who wishes to life a cheerful, satisfied life. He
should have full control over his feelings and should never be swayed by his
emotions. He should not be afraid of death and should be bold enough to
encounter all the ups and downs in life. He should follow the path of
simplicity and sobriety. He should not care for the individual and collective
opinion form about him. He should never run after earthly name and fame.
Lines
WHO ENVIES NONE THAT CHANCE DOTH RAISE,
NOR VICE; WHO NEVER UNDERSTOOD
HOW DEEPEST WOUNDS ARE GIVEN BY PRAISE;
NOR RULES OF STATE, BUT RULES OF GOOD;
Explanation
In these lines, the poet is referring to the
qualities needed in a person desirous of leading a simple, innocent life. Such
a person never fall a victim to the green-eyed monster by looking at others who
acquire wealth and reputation. He never gets involved in any kind of evil of
sight, speech or hearing. He is not interested in politics and government and
is simply aware of the golden principles of a life without ostentation. He
realizes that flattery is harmful for both who is flattered and the one who is
over-praising. Thus he keeps away from false praise at all cost.
Lines
WHO HATH HIS LIFE FROM RUMOURS FREED;
WHOSE CONSCIENCE IS HIS STRONG RETREAT;
WHOSE STATE CAN NEITHER FLATTERERS FEED,
NOR RUIN MAKE OPPRESSORS GREAT;
Explanation
In the lines given for explanation, the poet
believes that a person who wants to live a simple, contented life keeps his
life free from rumours by never trying to become a public figure. Such a person
always depends upon his conscience and acts according to it. He is not so
affluent that people may flatter him and take undue advantage of his wealthy
state. Such flatterers often fill their own coffers but when their benefactors
are ruined and deprived of their wealth, they accuse them and find all kinds of
faults in them.
Lines
WHO GOD DOTH LATE AND EARLY PRAY
MORE OF HIS GRACE THAN GIFTS TO LEND;
AND ENTERTAINS THE HARMLESS DAY
WITH A RELIGIOUS BOOK OR FRIEND
Explanation
The lines given for elucidation points to one of
the salient features of the character of a person wishing to live a happy life.
Such a person is religious-minded, morally sound, pious and God-fearing. He
prays to Almighty God whenever it is possible. He asks God for his benevolence
and blessings and not for worldly comfort and luxuries. He passes his time in
healthy activities by reading good books or being in the company of good,
virtuous friends.
Lines
-THIS MAN IS FREED FROM SERVILE BANDS
OF HOPE TO RISE, OR FEAR TO FALL:
LORD OF HIMSELF, THOUGH NOT OF LANDS,
AND HAVING NOTHING, YET HATH ALL.
Explanation
The lines given for explanation present in a
nutshell all the advantages of having sterling qualities of head and heart, so
necessary to pass a life of joy and satisfaction. A person who is the master of
his won will, follows the path of honesty, truthfulness, simplicity, piety and
self-confidence, and is courageous enough to face all the challenges, can
definitely lead a life of contentment. He is not bound by the chains of
slavery, and has neither the hope of achieving loftier goals nor the fear of
suffering a fall. He is not a feudal lord, possessing big estates but is lord
of himself, having all the noble qualities. Thus he is able to pass his life in
ease, joy and comfor
Lines - The Deserted
Village
INDEX
* 1 Reference to the Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
* 7 Lines
* 8 Explanation
Reference
to the Context
Introduction
The lines given for explanation are an
extract from the poem The Deserted Village written by Oliver Goldsmith. The
poem presents two contrasting pictures of an Irish village which fell a victim
to the cruelty and inhuman treatment of the feudal lords. The simpler,
hardworking rustics were forced to leave their native land as a result of the
agricultural revolution when the big land owners switched over from general
farming to sheep farming in order to earn greater profits. On the one hand,
this poem shows the joy and activities of the people before the village was
deserted, while on the other hand, it presents a gloomy picture of the same
village after the eviction of the rural population.
Lines
SWEET AUBURN! LOVELIEST VILLAGE OF THE PLAIN,
WHERE HEALTH AND PLENTY CHEERED THE LABOURING
SWAIN,
WHERE SMILING SPRING ITS EARLIEST VISIT PAID,
AND PARTING SUMMER’S LINGERING BLOOMS DELAYED:
DEAR LOVELY BOWERS OF INNOCENCE AND EASE,
SEATS OF MY YOUTH, WHEN EVERY SPORT COULD PLEASE
HOW OFTEN HAVE I LOITERED O’ER THY GREEN,
WHERE HUMBLE HAPPINESS ENDEAR’D EACH SCENE!
HOW OFTEN HAVE I PAUSED ON EVERY CHARM
THE SHELTERED COT, THE CULTIVATED FARM,
THE NEVER FAILING BROOK, THE BUSY MILL,
THE DECENT CHURCH THAT TROPPED THE NEIGHBOURING
THE HAWTHORN BUSH, WITH SEATS BENEATH THE SHADE,
FOR TALKING AGE AND WHISPERING LOVERS MADE !
Explanation
In the lines given for explanation, the poet
points out that Auburn was the most Beautiful village of the area. The rustics
enjoyed good health and found all the necessities of life in abundance. They
worked hard and remained happy. The first signs of the spring were visible and
summer lasted the longest. The poet had passed his childhood and early youth in
this village. He had participated in different kinds of activities. He had
observed all the beautiful sights of Nature. He had seen the beautiful cottages
and the picturesque natural surrounding. He had also admired the flowing
stream, the working mill and the ploughed fields. The seats under the trees
were occupied either by the old, fond of talking all the time or the young
lovers whispering to each other.
Lines
HOW OFTEN HAVE I BLEST THE COMING DAY,
WHEN TOIL REMITTING LENT ITS TURN TO PLAY,
AND ALL THE VILLAGE TRAIN, FROM LABOUR FREE,
LED UP THEIR SPORTS BENEATH THE SPREADING TREE;
WILL MANY A PASTIME CIRCLED IN THE SHADE,
THE YOUNG CONTENDING AS THE OLD SURVEYED;
AND MANY A GAMBOL FROLICKED O’ER THE GROUND,
AND SLEIGHTS OF ART AND FEATS OF STRENGTH WENT
ROUND;
AND STILL AS EACH REPEATED PLEASURE TIRED,
SUCCEEDDING SPORTS THE MIRTHFUL BAND INSPIRED;
THE DANCING PAIR THAT SIMPLY SOUGHT RENOWN
BY HOLDING OUT TO TIRE EACH OTHER DOWN;
THE SWAIN MISTRUSTLESS OF HIS SMUTTED FACE,
WHILE SECRET LAUGHTER TITTERED ROUND THE PLACE;
THE BASHFUL VIRGIN’S SIDE-LONG LOOKS OF LOVE,
THE MATRON’S GLANCE THAT WOULD THOSE LOOKS
REPROVE!
THESE WERE THEY CHARMS, SWEET VILLAGE, SPORTS
LIKE THESE,
WITH SWEET SUCCESSION,TAUGHT EVEN TOIL TO
PLEASE;
THESE ROUND THY BOWERS THEIR CHEERFUL INFLUENCE
SHED
THESE WERE THY CHARMS-BUT ALL THESE CHARMS ARE
FLED.
Explanation
In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is
describing the leisure activities of the simple villagers, which have now come
to an end as the village wears a deserted look. The toiling masses worked hard
for the whole week and eagerly waited the seventh day when they could enjoy
themselves to their heart’s content. On a holiday, the people gathered at
different places and took part in various activities. While the young people
competed with one another, the old observed them. When the people were tired of
one game, they began something else. They divided themselves into couples, each
couple trying to dance for the longest time to get renown. They also blackened
the face of some innocent rustic and then laughed at him secretly. Young girls
tried to look secretly at their lovers but such looks were disapproved of by their
matron. Once the laborer rustics were compelled to leave their native land, the
village looked barren and deserted. All the charms of the village were gone
with the rustics no more being there.
Lines
ILL FARES THE LAND, TO HASTENING ILLS A PREY
WHERE WEALTH ACCUMULATES, AND MEN DECAY;
PRINCESS AND LORDS MAY FLOURISH, OR MAY FADE;
A BREATH CAN MAKE THEM, AS A BREATH HAS MADE;
BUT A BOLD PEASANTRY, THEIR COUNTRY’S PRIDE
WHEN ONCE DESTROYED CAN NEVER BE SUPPLIED.
Explanation
The lines given for explanation present a
picture of the village after it was deserted. The simple abode of the innocent
rustics had fell a prey to injustice and cruelty. Wealth was accumulating in a
few hands while the common man suffered from misery, poverty and deprivation.
The bulk of the population consists of hardworking villagers. The rich may grow
richer and get all the honour and titles but that does not make much
difference. The real asset and wealth of the country are the poor, toiling
formers. If they are once destroyed, no one can replace them. The joy and
satisfaction life is lost forever
Lines - The Lay of the Last Minstrel
INDEX
* 1 Reference to the Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
* 7 Lines
* 8 Explanation
Reference
to the Context
Introduction
The given lines are an extract from the poem
The Lay of the Last Minstrel written by Sir Walter Scott. The poem deals with
the theme of patriotism. The poet believes that love and loyalty towards one’s
motherland is a natural feeling, and anyone devoid of it, is nothing but a
symbol of greed and selfishness. In the first place, the poet wishes to know
whether there are such people in the world who have no sense of attachment and allegiance
towards their nation, and never feel proud and honoured to speak of the
homeland, where they are born and brought up. Then the poet suggests that we
should be vigilant of such elements and always keep an eye on them. They are
worthless and deserve to be condemned in spite of all their wealth, high rank
and authority. Finally the poet believes that such unpatriotic people face an
unceremonious end. They lose, their reputation during their lifetime, and when
they die, it means death for them in two ways. Firstly they suffer physical
death when their body perishes and then their name is also buried forever. No
one shed tears of sorrow at their death, no one pays homage to them and no one
sings songs of appreciation for them. In this way, they get a well-deserved
death.
Lines
BREATHES THERE THE MAN WITH SOUL SO DEAD,
WHO NEVER TO HIMSELF HATH SAID,
THIS IS MY OWN, MY NATIVE LAND!
WHOSE HEART HATH NE’ER WITHIN HIM BURN’D,
AS HOME HIS FOOTSTEPS HE HATH TURN’D,
FROM WANDERING ON A FOREIGN STRAND!
Explanation
In the lines given for contextual explanation,
the poet wants to know whether there are unpatriotic people existing on this
earth. He wishes to identify such people who are absolutely devoid of the love
of the nation. Such people never take due pride in their motherland. If a
person remains away from his country for a long time, it is natural that he
should feel delighted and satisfied while re-tracing his steps to his own soil.
However if such sentiments are not aroused in him, it indicates that the noble
feeling of patriotism is not found in him and he has no affiliation with his
own land.
Lines
IF SUCH THERE BREATHE, GO MARK HIM WELL;
FOR HIM NO MINSTREL RAPTURES SWELL;
HIGH THOUGH HIS TITLES, PROUD HIS NAME,
BOUNDLESS HIS WEALTH AS WISH CAN CLAIM;
DESPITE THOSE TITLES, POWER AND PELF,
THE WRETCH, CONCENTRED ALL IN SELF
Explanation
In the lines given for elucidation, the poet is
sounding a word of caution against those who have not the slightest trace of
patriotism in them. The poet wishes that such selfish and unscrupulous people
should be identified. We should always be watchful of such people. It is
possible that such elements possess high titles and ranks. They may be
exercising great power and authority. They may also be rolling in wealth and
having all the luxuries and amenities of life. However, they prove to be the
most miserable people since they are too self-centered, and always look to
their own gains. They pay no heed to the glory and integrity of the nation but
go on filling their own coffers.
Lines
LIVING, SHALL FORFEIT FAIR RENOWN,
AND, DOUBLY DYING, SHALL GO DOWN
TO THE VILE DUST FROM WHENCE HE SPRUNG,
UNWEPT, UNHONOUR’D, AND UNSUNG.
Explanation
In the lines given for explanation, the poet is
referring to the fate of such a person who is completely devoid of the spirit
of patriotism. People begin recognizing such elements during their lifetime and
they begin losing their name and fame. When such unpatriotic people die, it
means a “double death” for them. In the first place, their body perishes and
they are buried. They go back to the same dust from which they were created. At
the same time their name and fame is also lost forever. When such an
unpatriotic person departs from this world no eyes are filled with tears and no
one mourns over her grief. No homage or tribute is paid to such a person as no
one utters a word of praise or appreciation for him. No songs are sung in his
memory and no one remembers him after his death. Thus, he suffers a death Of
disgrace and ignominy.
Sonnet Composed Upon West Minster
Bridge
INDEX
* 1 Reference to the Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
* 7 Lines
* 8 Explanation
Reference
to the Context
Introduction
The given lines are an extract from the poem
Sonnet Composed Upon Westminster Bridge written by William Words Worth. The
poet describes and appreciates the beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the city
of London as he looks at it in the early hours of morning. He considers it to be
the most splendid, wonderful and charming sight in the world and believes that
every one is bound to be impressed by it.
Lines
EARTH HAS NOT ANY THING TO SHOW MORE FAIR:
DULL WOULD HE BE OF SOUL WHO COULD PASS BY
A SIGHT SO TOUCHING IN ITS MAJESTY:
Explanation
As the poet stands upon the Westminster Bridge
at dawn, he admires the beauty of the city of London. According to him, it is
the most charming sight in the world. He feels that no onlooker can remain
unimpressed by it. However, if one is not affected by the beauty and
tranquility of the sight, it implies that he has lost all aesthetic sense and
is devoid of all finer emotions.
Lines
THIS CITY NOW DOTH, LIKE A GARMENT WEAR
THE BEAUTY OF THE MORNING; SILENT, BARE,
SHIPS, TOWERS, DOMES, THEATRES AND TEMPLES LIE
OPEN UNTO THE FIELDS, AND TO THE SKY;
ALL BRIGHT AND GLITTERING IN THE SMOKELESS AIR.
Explanation
The poet describes the city as he observes it in
the early hours of the day. The city of London seems to be wearing the dress of
beauty and serenity. Everything can be seen clearly sparkling in the fog less
surrounding. While standing on the bridge, the poet can observe the ships
sailing, the towers and domes of buildings, the different places of worship and
amusement. Since the atmosphere is free from smoke and pollution, everything
seems to be dazzling in the rays of the rising sun.
Lines
NEVER DID SUN MORE BEAUTIFULLY STEEP
IN HIS FIRST SPLENDOUR VALLEY, ROCK OR HILL;
NE’ER SAW I, NEVER FELT, A CALM SO DEEP!
THE RIVER GLIDETH AT HIS OWN SWEET WILL;
DEAR GOD! THE VERY HOUSES SEEM ASLEEP;
AND ALL THAT MIGHTY HEART IS LYING STILL!
Explanation
The city of London appears to be coloured with
golden tint of the majestic sun. The rays of the sun cover even the valleys and
hills around the cosmopolitan city. The poet points out that he has not
experienced such a peaceful atmosphere in his life. Moreover, he has never come
across such an appealing and impressive view. He sees the River Thames flowing
gently and smoothly under the bridge. He realizes that the entire city seems to
be sounding asleep. All the places that are full of hustle and bustle and
hectic activity are at this time serene and peaceful. London being the heart of
England is bubbling with life and activity but at dawn, it appears to be at
rest and presents a wonderful picture of unrivalled charm and tranquility.
Lines - Lucy Gray
INDEX
* 1 Reference to the Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
* 7 Lines
* 8 Explanation
* 9 Lines
* 10 Explanation
* 11 Lines
* 12 Explanation
Reference
to the Context
Introduction
William Words Worth is considered to be one
of the greatest and the most prominent figures in the realm of English
literature. He was an ardent worshipper of the beauty of Nature. For him,
Nature is a living entity, throbbing with life and intensity. Word worth
believed poetry to be a spontaneous over flow of emotion but while expressing
that spontaneity, he always made use of very simple words which touched the
hearts of the readers. In this narrative poem, which is one in the series of
Lucy poems, Lucy, the innocent child becomes a symbol of charm and naivete. She
is full of playfulness and vivacity but she fall a prey to an unfortunate
incident and the span of her life is cut short due to it. The poem relates the
story of the tragic end and sudden death of the sweet child.
Lines
NO MATE, NO COMRADE LUCY, KNEW;
SHE DWELT ON A WIDE MOOR-
THE SWEETEST THING THAT EVER GREW
BESIDE A HUMAN DOOR!
Explanation
In the lines given for explanation, the poet is
referring to the sweet, innocent child, Lucy. She is presented as a simple,
Beautiful creation of Nature. She is passing a life of serene solitude on a
barren land. She has no friends or companions. The poet compares her to a
fragrant flower blossoming in the wildness.
Lines
YOU YET MAY SPY THE FAWN AT PLAY,
THE HARE UPON THE GREEN;
BUT THE SWEET FACE OF LUCY GRAY
WILL NEVER MORE BE SEEN.
Explanation
In these lines, the note of tragedy creeps in.
The poet admires all the beautiful creations of Nature. He appreciates the
jocundity of the young deer and the frivolity of the loping hare on the green
grass but he is overcome with gloom and sadness to realize that he would not be
able to see the face of Lucy anymore. Then the poet begins describing the
unfortunate incident which results in the death of Lucy.
Lines
NOT BLITHER IS THE MOUNTAIN ROE:
WITH MANY A WANTON STROKE
HE FEET DISPERSE THE POWDERY SNOW
THAT RISES UP LIKE SMOKE.
Explanation
In the lines given for explanation, the poet
describes the playfulness and jolly mood of the sweet child, Lucy. As Lucy is
proceeding to the town to bring her mother back from there, she seems to be in
a very cheerful countenance. She is more active and agile then a deer. She goes
on kicking at the snow. The tender flakes of snow rise in the form of smoke. It
presents an Beautiful sight as Lucy appears to be enraptured in her world of
gaiety and gamboling.
Lines
THE WRETCHED PARENTS ALL THAT NIGHT
WENT SHOUTING FAR AND WIDE;
BUT THERE WAS NEITHER SOUND NOR SIGHT
TO SERVE THEM FOR A GUIDE.
Explanation
In the given lines, the poet points out that
after Lucy loses he way in the tempest, she suffers a tragic death. Thereafter,
her parents go on looking for her in every nook or corner. They are overcome
with misery and depression as they fail to find her whereabouts. They are
unable to visualize her charming face, neither is her sweet voice audible to
them. They get no trace of her, and in the end, they are compelled to accept
the tragic fact that Lucy is no more alive.
Lines
- YET SOME MAINTAIN THAT TO THIS DAY
SHE IS A LIVING CHILD;
THAT YOU MAY SEE SWEET LUCY GRAY
UPON THE LONESOME WILD.
Explanation
In this closing stanza of the poem, the poet refers
to the wild imagination of those who are still living in the world of fancy
believing Lucy to be a “Living Child.” They have not yet reconciled to the fact
that Lucy has suffered physical death. They not only think that she is alive
but also imagine that she is running and playing all over the place. They also
imagine Lucy singing a sweet song and her voice reverberating all over the
natural surrounding. However, it is nothing more than their imagination because
Lucy has already fallen a prey to tragic end.
ines -
The Toys
INDEX
* 1
Reference to the Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
* 7 Lines
* 8 Explanation
* 9 Lines
* 10 Explanation
Reference to the Context
Introduction
In this narrative poem, the poet points out that God is always kind and
merciful to man but man often fails to follow the commands of his Creator. The
poem relates the story of father and son. The father treats the son harshly but
later realizes his mistake and asks for forgiveness from God for his foolish
behaviour. He hopes that as he has forgiven his son, God would pardon him for
his childishness.
Lines
MY LITTLE SON, WHO LOOK’D FROM THOUGHTFUL EYES
AND MOVED AND SPOKE IN QUIET GROWN-UP WISE,
HAVING MY LAW THE SEVENTH TIME DISOBEY’D,
I STRUCK HIM, AND DISMISS’D
WITH HARD WORDS AND UNKISS’D,
-HIS MOTHER, WHO WAS PATIENT, BEING DEAD.
Explanation
The poem tells the story of a father and his son. The little boy always appeared
to be serious and thoughtful. He behaved like grown-ups but sometime his
childish instinct made him commit follies. When he disobeyed his father for the
seventh time, he was beaten, scolded and turned out without being kissed. There
was no one to defend or console him because his mother was no more in this
world.
Lines
THEN FEARING LEST HIS GRIEF SHOULD HINDER SLEEP,
I VISITEDHIS BED,
BUT FOUND HIM SLUMBERING DEEP,
WITH DARKEN’D EYELIDS, AND THEIR LASHES YET
FROM HIS LATE SOBBING WET.
Explanation
The father realized that he had been too harsh with his son. He feared that the
child might not be able to sleep due to his grief. He visited his son’s bed and
found him sound asleep. The boy had fallen into a slumber while weeping because
his eyes appeared swollen and his eyelashes were still wet with tears.
Lines
AND I, WITH MOAM,
KISSING AWAY HIS TEARS, LEFT OTHERS OF MY OWN;
FOR, ON A TABLE DRAWN BESIDE HIS HEAD,
HE HAD PUT, WITHIN HIS REACH,
A BOX OF COUNTERS AND A RED-VEIN’D STONE,
A PIECE OF GLASS ABRADED BY THE BEACH,
AND SIX OR SEVEN SHELLS,
A BOTTLE WITH BLUE BELLS,
AND TWO FRENCH COPPER COINS RANGED THERE WITH CAREFUL ART,
TO COMFORT HIS SAD HEART.
Explanation
The father felt very repentant and aggrieved. He absorbed the tears of his son
in his lips but left his own tears on his face. He noticed that the boy had
sought consolation in small, ordinary objects. Near his bed, he had pulled a
table on which he had arranged very skillfully things like counters, a red
stone, a rough piece of glass, some flowers and shells and two coins. All these
insignificant things provided ease and comfort to his sad heart.
Lines
SO WHEN THAT NIGHT I PRAY’D
TO GOD, I WEPT AND SAID:
AH! WHEN AT LAST WE LIE WITH TRANCED BREATH,
NOT VEXING THEE IN DEATH,
AND THOU REMEMBEREST OF WHAT TOYS
WE MADE OUR JOYS,
HOW WEAKLY UNDERSTAND,
THY GREAT COMMANDED GOOD,
THEN, FATHERLY NOT LESS
THAN I WHOM THOU HAST MOULDED FROM THE CLAY,
THOU’LT LEAVE THY WRATH, AND SAY,
‘I WILL BE SORRY FOR THEIR CHILDISHNESS.’
Explanation
The father was so overawed with shame and grief that when that night he prayed
to God, he could not help shedding tears of sincere regret. He pointed out that
man fails to understand the commands of God, and there are some who do not fear
God even on their death-bed. However, God is the most Beneficent and the most
Merciful. He provides man with all the simple joys of life. The father forgives
his son and hopes that God, being like and guardian and benefactor of the
entire human race would pardon him for his rash and unreasonable behaviour
towards his son.
Lines - Incident of the
French Camp
INDEX
* 1 Reference to Context
* 2 Introduction
* 3 Lines
* 4 Explanation
* 5 Lines
* 6 Explanation
* 7 Lines
* 8 Explanation
* 9 Lines
* 10 Explanation
* 11 Lines
* 12 Explanation
Reference
to Context
Introduction
These lines have been extracted from the
poem Incident of the French Camp written by Robert Browning. The poem describes
an act of chivalry, gallantry, patriotism and sacrifice on the part of a young
French Soldier. The French Army had attacked the German city of Ratisbon. After
they had achieved triumph, the news of the victory was conveyed to the Emperor
Napoleon Bonaparte by that young soldier who was brimming with pride and glory
although he was on the verge of death. Thereafter, the wounded soldier breathed
his last.
Lines
YOU KNOW, WE FRENCH STORMED RATISBON:
A MILE OR SO AWAY,
ON A LITTLE MOUND, NAPOLEON
STOOD ON OUR STORMING DAY;
WITH NECK OUT-THRUST, YOU FANCY HOW,
LEGS WIDE, ARMS LOCKED BEHIND,
AS IF TO BALANCE THE PRONE BROW
OPPRESSIVE WITH ITS MIND.
Explanation
In the lines given for explanation, the poet is
describing the scene of the French attack on the German city of Ratisbon.
Marshal Lannes led the French aggression in the year 1783. On that occasion,
the French emperor Napoleon stood on a hillock just a mile away from the scene
of the onslaught. He appeared to be in a pensive mood. He had his neck sticking
out and his legs were wide apart. He had his arms joined behind his bark and a
cloud on his brow was quite visible. It seemed that something very important
was weighing upon his mind and he was perhaps working out his future strategy
and line of action.
Lines
JUST AS PERHAPS HE MUSED, MY PLANS
THAT SOAR, TO EARTH MAY FALL,
LET ONCE MY ARMY.LEADER LANNES
WAVER AT YONDER WALL,’-
OUT ’TWIST THE BATTERY SMOKES THERE FLEW
A RIDER, BOUND ON BOUND
FULL-GALLOPING; NOR BRIDLE DREW
UNTIL HE REACHED THE MOUND.
Explanation
These lines bring to light the contemplative
nature of Napoleon, and the courage and enthusiasm of the young soldier who was
heading towards him to convey the good news of victory. Napoleon was lost in
his thoughts pondering over the events of the days to come. All his future
planning depended upon his success at Ratisbon. He was eagerly waiting to see
the French flag flutter over the German City. As he concentrated upon his
future strategy, he observed a young French soldier rushing towards him, riding
at top speed. The rider pierced through the blanket of smoke. He came straight
to the place where Napoleon was standing and was waiting to receive the good
tidings.
Lines
THEN OFF THERE FLUNG IN SMILING JOY,
AND HELD HIMSELF ERECT
BY JUST HIS HORSE’S MANE, A BOY:
YOU HARDLY COULD SUSPECT –
(SO TIGHT HE KEPT HIS LIPS COMPRESSED,
SCARCE ANY BLOOD CAME THROUGH)
YOU LOOKED TWICE ERE YOU SAW HIS BREAST
WAS ALL BUT SHOT IN TWO.
Explanation
In the given lines, the poet appreciated the
heroic behaviour of the young soldier. Although he was fatally wounded, he
displayed extraordinary courage, confidence and self-control. He jumped off his
horse and stood at attention before his chief. His mouth was full of blood but
he had his lips so tightly sealed that not a drop of blood oozed out of it. He
maintained his cool and composure, and with confidence and chivalry, conveyed
the cheerful news of victory. One could never realize that the young soldier’s
breast was shot into two unless one has very keen and observant eye on him.
Lines
‘WELL, CRIED HE, ‘EMPEROR, BY GOD’S GRACE
WE’VE GOT YOU RATISBON!
THE MARSHAL’S IN THE MARKET-PLACE,
AND YOU’LL BE THERE ANON
TO SEE YOUR FLAG-BIRD FLAP HIS VANS
WHERE I, TO HEART’S DESIRE,
FERCHED HIM!’ THE CHIEF’S EYE FLASHED; HIS PLANS
SOARED UP AGAIN LIKE FIRE.
Explanation
In the lines given for explanation, the poet is
describing the way in which the young soldier informed Napoleon of their
success and the reaction of the Emperor to this good news. Although the young
man was in intense pain and suffering, he finally opened his lips, and with a
great sense of pleasure and personal pride, informed Napoleon of the annexation
ofthe German City. Napoleon was delighted to learn that Marshall Lannes had
reached the heart of the city and the emperor was eagerly awaited by the
triumphant forces. The soldier felt a special kind of joy and pride in the fact
that he, with his own hands, had flownthe French flag over Ratisbon. The flag
had the figure of a bird on it. Thus when the flag fluttered in the air, it
seemed as though the bird on it. Thus when the flag fluttered in the air, it
seemed as though the bird was flapping its wings. No sooner did Napoleon get
the news of victory, a sparkle of joy and satisfaction came to his eyes. He
once again started thinking about his future strategy.
Lines
THE CHIEF’S EYE FLASHED; BUT PRESENTLY
SOFTENED ITSELF, AS SHEATHES
A FILM THE MOTER-EAGLE’S EYE
WHEN HER BRUISED EAGLET BREATHES:
‘YOU’RE WOUNDED!, ‘NAY’, HIS SOLDIER’S PRIDE
TOUCHED TO THE QUICK, HE SAID:
‘I’M KILLED, SIRE!” AND HIS CHIEF BESIDE,
SMILING, THE BOY FELL DEAD.
Explanation
These lines bring to light Napoleon’s loving and
affectionate behaviour towards the young soldier who was about to breathe his
last. The good news of success had brought to Napoleon’s eyes a special kind of
glitter which faded away no sooner had he noticed that the soldier was fatally
wounded. The feelings of Napoleon at that moment were just like those of the
mother eagle who gets confused when she finds her young ones badly bruised
andon the verge of death. She fails to understand how to save their lives.
Similarly, that maternal affection surged up in Napoleon’s heart and he
inquired whether the boy was wounded. The soldier proudly declared that he felt
joy and thrill in giving his life for his country. There was a smile of pride
and satisfaction on the young soldier’s lips as he fell dead near his emperor’s
feet