CLASS 12 ENGLISH CORE REVISION ( LONG QUESTIONS WITH HINTS)

 How do ‘Indigo’ by Louis Fischer and ‘The Roadside Stand’ by Robert Frost, highlight the theme of exploitation, and what similarities do they reveal about the plight of marginalised communities?

OR

  How can the character of the office boy in ‘Poets and Pancakes,’ who harbours dreams, be compared to Sophie from ‘Going Places,’ who is quite aspirational? Consider their ambitions and the obstacles they face in their respective  

Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 120-150 words 1x5=5

Justify how Sadao's character arc is more central to the moral dilemma in the

‘The Enemy’ as opposed to Hana’s.

OR

Analyse how the narrative technique used in ‘The Tiger King’, enhances the impact

of the story on the reader.

HINTS

While ‘Indigo’ delves into the economic and systemic oppression of sharecroppers by British landlords, ‘The Roadside Stand’ highlights the plight of rural people exploited by urban elites and a neglectful system. Both works emphasise the imbalance of power and the struggles of those at the bottom of the societal hierarchy. In ‘Indigo’, the exploitation of Champaran’s peasants is evident in the oppressive sharecropping system, where British landlords forced them to grow indigo on a portion of their land and unfairly profited from it. Similarly, ‘The Roadside Stand’ portrays a countryside inhabitant selling their goods by the roadside, hoping for a fair chance at economic survival. Their disappointment reflects the false promises of development, as urban buyers and authorities fail to address their needs, leaving them trapped in poverty. Both texts reveal a shared truth—exploitation persists when power dynamics remain unchecked, and progress often bypasses those who need it most. While Gandhi’s efforts in ‘Indigo’ offer a path of hope through resistance, Frost’s poem serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing neglect faced by rural communities. Together, they highlight the importance of empathy, equity, and advocacy in combating exploitation. B· In both ‘Poets and Pancakes’ and ‘Going Places’, the characters of the office boy and Sophie share common traits of ambition and dreams that surpass their immediate realities. The office boy, like Sophie, dreams of achieving something greater—he aspires to be a star actor, director, or writer, but is stuck in a subordinate role in the make-up department. Similarly, Sophie dreams of running a boutique or becoming an actress, yet is constrained by financial limitations and family’s expectations. Both characters, despite their seemingly humble positions, hold onto lofty dreams that offer them an escape from their current circumstances. However, while Sophie is often dismissive of the practicality of her ambitions, focusing instead on grand ideals, the office boy seems more realistic in his understanding of the obstacles he faces, despite his unfulfilled aspirations. Both characters represent dreams and ambitions constrained by their environments. While their pursuits are met with limitations, they reflect the universal desire to transcend one’s current situation and achieve something greater. 13. Answer any one of the following two questions, in about 120-150 words. Content 2 Expression 2 Accuracy 1 1 x 5 =5 A· Sadao’s character arc in ‘The Enemy’ is central to the moral dilemma of the story. Initially, Sadao is deeply loyal to his country and driven by a sense of patriotism, yet he is a doctor sworn to 10 preserve life. When the American prisoner washes ashore, Sadao’s internal conflict emerges— should he help an enemy soldier, risking his own safety, or adhere to his nationalistic duty. As the story progresses, Sadao’s arc moves from hesitation and reluctant duty to genuine compassion for the soldier. He goes beyond his initial patriotic impulses, deciding to save the life of the wounded man, showing his internal growth and moral courage. His arc symbolises the triumph of humanity over nationalism, as he eventually values the life of an individual over political allegiances. In contrast, Hana’s transformation is subtler. While she starts with fear and repulsion, her compassion grows, but she does not undergo the same profound transformation as Sadao. Her evolution is more passive, as she supports her husband’s decision rather than leading it. Thus, Sadao’s arc is more central to the story’s moral conflict. B. The satirical tone is central to the narrative, as Kalki uses humour and irony to critique the Maharaja’s blind obsession with fulfilling a prophecy. Through exaggerated events, such as the Maharaja’s declaration to kill 100 tigers or the astrologer’s dramatic predictions, the narrative highlights the absurdity of human arrogance and misplaced priorities. The detached third-person omniscient narrator adds to this effect, providing sardonic commentary on the Maharaja’s actions, which invites readers to critically evaluate his decisions rather than empathise with him. The use of foreshadowing and dramatic irony keeps the reader engaged. The prophecy of the 100th tiger causing the Maharaja’s death looms over the narrative, creating anticipation and humour as the Maharaja ironically believes he can outwit fate. The ultimate twist, where a wooden tiger indirectly causes his death, adds a layer of poignant irony. Additionally, Kalki critiques human folly and power through the dialogues, hyperbole, and absurdities of the plot, leaving readers entertained yet reflective.