Class 11 NCERT English Book Woven Words Lesson 2 A pair of Mustachios Short Stories Questions and Answer.
Lesson 2 A pair of Mustachios
Understand The text
1. What do you understand of the natures of Ramanand and Azam Khan from the episode describe?
2. Identify instances in the story that show the business acumen of Ramanand.
3. Both Ramanand and Azam Khan seem to have very fixed views. How does Ramanand score over Azam Khan towards the end of the story?
Answers:
1. Natures of Ramanand and Azam Khan: From the episode described, you likely get insights into the personalities of both Ramanand and Azam Khan. Ramanand is likely portrayed as a clever businessman, diplomatic, and someone who is focused on finding solutions. Azam Khan, on the other hand, could be depicted as a man of rigid principles, possibly stubborn or authoritative in his ways. The episode might showcase their interactions, where their characteristics are highlighted through dialogue or actions.
2. Business Acumen of Ramanand: Instances that showcase Ramanand’s business acumen might include his ability to navigate challenges or conflicts effectively, his strategic thinking, and his focus on benefiting his business. He may display his skills through negotiation, making profitable decisions, or cleverly avoiding potential losses. Look for moments in the story where Ramanand uses his intelligence to handle a difficult situation or outsmart his competitor.
3. Fixed Views and the Conclusion: Both Ramanand and Azam Khan seem to have fixed views, meaning they hold strong opinions or beliefs. However, towards the end, Ramanand scores over Azam Khan, which likely means he manages to come out on top by being more flexible, strategic, or clever in the situation. Perhaps, while Azam Khan sticks to his rigid views, Ramanand adapts or uses his wit to achieve a favorable outcome, showing that flexibility or intelligence can prevail over stubbornness.
Talking about the text
Discuss the following in groups of three or four
1. The episode has been narrated in a light vein. What social mores does the author seem to ridicule?
2. What do you think are the reason for the references made to the English people and the British monarchy?
3. What do you think is the message that the author seems to convey through the story?
Compare your group’s views with that of the other groups.
Answer:
1. Light-hearted Narration and Ridicule of Social Mores:
Light-hearted tone: The episode is likely narrated in a humorous or playful way, possibly mocking certain social customs or behaviors that are prevalent in the society depicted in the story.
Social mores ridiculed: The author might be highlighting and ridiculing aspects such as rigid traditions, the obsession with status, superficial authority, or blind adherence to outdated norms. For example, if the characters are overly concerned with honor, social hierarchy, or traditions that no longer serve a purpose, the author could be using humor to expose the absurdity of these values.
Discussion prompt: Group members can discuss which behaviors or traditions in the story seem exaggerated or outdated, and how the author uses humor to poke fun at them.
2. References to the English People and the British Monarchy:
Colonial context: If the story makes references to the English people or the British monarchy, it is likely set in a time when India was under British colonial rule or had strong ties with the British.
Reason for references: The references could be used to highlight how Indian society, during that period, was influenced by British customs and how the local people responded to or viewed the British rulers. It might also point to the influence of colonialism on the mindset of the characters, possibly suggesting a sense of inferiority, admiration, or satire of the colonizers.
Discussion prompt: In the group, you could explore how the characters in the story react to these references and whether the author is criticizing or simply reflecting the impact of British rule.
3. Message Conveyed by the Author:
Possible message: The author might be conveying a message about the futility of rigid thinking, the absurdity of social hierarchies, or the importance of adaptability and wit over pride and stubbornness.
Themes: Other possible themes could include a critique of colonial influence on local traditions, or a broader message about human nature, such as the power of flexibility, diplomacy, or intelligence over blind adherence to principles.
Discussion prompt: Group members can discuss what they believe the author is trying to say about society, tradition, or human behavior, and whether the story ultimately suggests change or continuity in those behaviors.
Comparing Views with Other Groups:
Once each group has discussed these points, compare your interpretations with the other groups. Different groups might have varying views on the social mores being ridiculed, the significance of the references to the British, and the ultimate message of the story.
You could share your group’s thoughts and see if others saw the humor or the social commentary in the same light. Some might interpret the references to the British as more serious or symbolic, while others might see them as purely humorous or satirical. Comparing views will enrich your understanding of the text and may highlight different layers of meaning.
Application
1. Comment on the way in which the theme of the story has been introduced.
2. How does the insertion of dialogue in the story contribute to its interest?
Answers:
1. Introduction of the Theme:
Engaging start: The theme of the story is often introduced in a way that immediately captures the reader’s attention, whether it’s through a humorous or ironic situation, a particular event, or through the personalities of the characters. The theme may involve societal norms, pride, rivalry, or human nature, depending on the context of the story.
Gradual unfolding: The theme may unfold gradually through interactions between the characters, giving the reader time to see how their differing viewpoints or actions reflect a broader commentary on society. This method allows the theme to be explored through narrative tension, contrast, or satire.
Discussion prompt: How effectively is the main theme (such as stubbornness, social pride, or traditionalism) introduced? Does it arise naturally through character interactions or is it stated explicitly?
2. Insertion of Dialogue:
Enhances character development: Dialogue is a key tool for revealing the personalities, attitudes, and motivations of the characters. It shows their thought processes and how they interact with others, which adds depth and interest to the story. For instance, the back-and-forth between Ramanand and Azam Khan may show their differing viewpoints or fixed ideas.
Adds realism and engagement: Well-crafted dialogue brings the characters to life, making the story feel more dynamic and engaging. It can also make the story more relatable, as readers can imagine real people talking in similar ways.
Creates humor or tension: Dialogue can introduce humor, irony, or tension, especially if the characters are in conflict or have differing views. It also allows the author to subtly insert social commentary or wit.
Discussion prompt: How does the dialogue between the characters contribute to the interest of the story? Does it make the situation more humorous, tense, or relatable?
Language Work
1. Nouveau riche and bourgeoise are French words. Collect from newspaper. magazines and other sources some more French words or expressions that are commonly used in English.
2. Locate expressions in the text which reflect the Indian idiom, for example, the pride of the generations of his ancestors.
3. We ‘draw up a deed’. Complete the following phrases with appropriate words.
a. …………. one’s word
b. ………… one’s will
c. …………. ends meet
d. ………… a loan
e. …………. a deaf ear to
Answer:
1. Common French Words/Expressions in English:
- Cliché: An overused expression or idea.
- Fiancé/Fiancée: Engaged man/woman.
- Ballet: A classical dance form.
- Café: A small restaurant.
- Déjà vu: The feeling of having already experienced something.
- Entrepreneur: A person who starts or manages a business.
- Rendezvous: A meeting or appointment.
- Bizarre: Strange or unusual.
- Avant-garde: Innovative or ahead of its time.
- Coup d’état: A sudden overthrow of government.
- Chauffeur: A person hired to drive a car.
You can explore newspapers or articles to gather more examples of French-origin words commonly used in English.
2. Indian Idioms in the Text:
In the story, the language may reflect Indian idioms and expressions. Examples like:
- “The pride of the generations of his ancestors”: This reflects respect for familial honor and heritage, a common cultural value in India.
- Other similar phrases might include references to family lineage, prestige, or traditions that showcase Indian values.
You can search for more such expressions in the text that represent Indian cultural idioms.
3. Complete the Phrases:
a. Give one’s word
b. Make one’s will
c. Make ends meet
d. Take out a loan
e. Turn a deaf ear to