Write short answers to the following questions in about 75 words each. [5×2=10] a. How would you react if you were in the young man’s situation at the end of the story? (Neighbours) b. How was…

a. How would you react if you were in the young man’s situation at the end of the story? (Neighbours)

If I were in the young man’s situation at the end of "Neighbours", I would feel a mix of relief, guilt, and determination. The young man, after years of resentment toward his neighbor, finally realizes the true meaning of kindness and human connection. His neighbor’s selfless act of saving his life—even though he was unaware of it—would make me reflect deeply on my own prejudices and misunderstandings.

I would apologize sincerely for my past behavior and try to rebuild trust. Instead of holding grudges, I would reach out with gratitude, perhaps by offering help or simply acknowledging the neighbor’s goodness. This experience would teach me that judging others hastily leads to regret, and true happiness comes from compassion and understanding. I would also learn to appreciate small acts of kindness and avoid taking people for granted.

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b. How was Gouvernail different from Mrs. Baroda’s expectation? (A Respectable Woman)

Mrs. Baroda expected Gouvernail to be a strict, disciplined, and morally upright governess who would enforce discipline in her household. However, Gouvernail turned out to be completely different—she was kind, understanding, and emotionally connected to the children.

Mrs. Baroda had imagined a cold, authoritative figure who would keep the children in line without showing affection. Instead, Gouvernail formed deep bonds with them, making them happy and well-behaved not through fear, but through love. This contrasted sharply with Mrs. Baroda’s rigid expectations, proving that true respect and obedience come from warmth, not strictness.

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OR

Do you think Rakesh was a devoted son? Explain. (A Devoted Son)

Yes, Rakesh was a devoted son in every sense. His devotion was not just about financial support but also about emotional care and sacrifice. He worked hard to provide for his family, even though his father was unappreciative and demanding.

Rakesh’s love was selfless—he never complained about his father’s harsh words or lack of gratitude. Instead, he continued to serve with patience and kindness. His devotion was beyond duty; it came from a deep sense of responsibility and love for his parents. Even when his father was cruel, Rakesh remained loyal and caring, proving that true devotion is not about being rewarded, but about giving without expectations.

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c. What does the poet say about God’s greatness? (Every Morning I Wake)

In "Every Morning I Wake", the poet describes God’s greatness as limitless and ever-present. The poem suggests that God is not confined to any single place or time but is everywhere and always active.

The poet emphasizes that God’s power is beyond human understanding—He is both the creator and the sustainer of life. The lines suggest that God’s love and wisdom are infinite, and humans can only glimpse His greatness through faith and reflection. The poem also implies that God’s presence is felt in nature, in the cycle of life, and in the daily miracles that often go unnoticed.

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d. Where was the author when he was late for lunch? (On Libraries)

In "On Libraries", the author was completely absorbed in reading when he realized he was late for lunch. He was lost in a book, so engrossed that he lost track of time.

The story highlights how books and knowledge can make us forget everything else, including basic needs like food. The author’s passion for reading led him to miss meals, showing how intellectual curiosity can be all-consuming. His experience reflects the power of books to transport us into different worlds, making us lose ourselves in stories and ideas.

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OR

What is the goal of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights? (Human Rights and the Age of Inequality)

The primary goal of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is to ensure dignity, equality, and justice for all people, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or social status.

The UDHR was created to protect fundamental freedoms, such as:

• Freedom from discrimination (Article 2)
• Right to life, liberty, and security (Article 3)
• Freedom of speech, thought, and religion (Articles 18-19)
• Right to education, work, and fair treatment (Articles 22-26)

Its ultimate purpose is to promote peace and cooperation by guaranteeing basic human rights worldwide. However, the text "Human Rights and the Age of Inequality" suggests that despite these declarations, inequality persists, meaning the UDHR’s goals are not yet fully achieved in many parts of the world.

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e. Do you think that August Strindberg portrays despair in a very powerful and realistic way? Give a reason. (Facing Death)

Yes, August Strindberg effectively portrays despair in "Facing Death" in a powerful and realistic manner. His description of terminal illness and existential dread is deeply emotional and relatable.

Strindberg’s writing captures the fear of death, loneliness, and helplessness that many people experience when facing mortality. His vivid imagery—such as the darkness of the room, the ticking clock, and the suffocating silence—makes the reader feel the protagonist’s anguish. The realistic portrayal of despair comes from his honest and unflinching depiction of human vulnerability, making the story both tragic and profoundly human.

The psychological depth of his writing ensures that readers connect with the fear and despair, making it a timeless exploration of mortality.