BEGC-133 June, 2022
Term-End Examination
BEGC-133 : BRITISH LITERATURE
Time : 3 Hours Maximum Marks : 100
Note : All questions are compulsory.
- Explain any four of the following passages with reference to the context (around 150 words each) : 4×8=32
(i) “Yet do I fear thy Nature :
It is too full of the milk of humane kindness
To catch the nearest way.
Thou would‟st be great,
Art not without ambition, but without
The illness should attend it.”
Answer:
This passage is from Act I, Scene V of Shakespeare’s play Macbeth. Lady Macbeth speaks these lines in a soliloquy after reading a letter from her husband, Macbeth, in which he tells her about the witches’ prophecy that he will become king. Lady Macbeth is excited by the prospect of her husband becoming king and is determined to help him achieve his goal. However, she also recognizes that Macbeth is a kind and compassionate person who may not be willing to do whatever it takes to become king.
In this passage, Lady Macbeth expresses her fear that Macbeth’s “nature” is too kind and gentle to seize the opportunity to become king. She believes that Macbeth has the ambition to become great, but lacks the ruthlessness and cunning that would be necessary to achieve his goal. Lady Macbeth is determined to help her husband become king, and she plans to use her own strength and determination to overcome his weaknesses.
This passage highlights the theme of ambition and the corrupting influence of power. Lady Macbeth recognizes that ambition can be a powerful force, but she also understands that it can lead to moral decay and destruction. The passage also reveals Lady Macbeth’s own ambition and her willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals, even if it means manipulating her husband.
(ii) “Will all great Neptune‟s
Ocean wash this blood
Clean from my hand ? No : this
my hand will rather
The multitudinous seas incarnardine,
Making the green one, red.”
Answer:
This passage is from Act II, Scene II of Shakespeare’s play Macbeth. It is spoken by Macbeth after he has murdered King Duncan in his sleep. Macbeth is filled with guilt and horror at what he has done, and he is struggling to come to terms with the enormity of his crime.
In this passage, Macbeth is expressing his despair at the thought that he will never be able to wash the blood from his hands. He wonders if even the vast oceans of the world could cleanse him of his guilt, but he realizes that this is impossible. Instead, he imagines that his hands will stain the seas with blood, turning the green waters red with his guilt.
This passage highlights the theme of guilt and the psychological toll that Macbeth’s actions have taken on him. Macbeth is consumed by his guilt and is unable to escape the consequences of his actions. The image of the seas turning red with blood is a powerful symbol of the bloodshed and violence that will continue to haunt Macbeth throughout the play. It also foreshadows the bloody events that will follow as Macbeth’s ambition and desire for power lead him down a path of destruction.
(iii) “He did it like an operatic tenor–a regular
handsome fellow, with flashing eyes and
lovely moustache, shouting a war-cry and
charging like Don Quixote at the mills. We
nearly burst with laughter at him.”
Answer:
This passage is from “Arms and the Man” by George Bernard Shaw and is spoken by Captain Bluntschli, a Swiss mercenary who is fighting for the Serbian army. In this passage, Bluntschli is describing the Bulgarian charge led by Sergius Saranoff, Raina’s fiancé. Bluntschli is unaware that Raina is betrothed to Sergius and is speaking candidly about his opinion of the charge.
Bluntschli’s description of Sergius is ironic and satirical. He compares Sergius to an operatic tenor, suggesting that his actions are more theatrical than heroic. The reference to Don Quixote, a character from Spanish literature who is known for his foolish and impractical actions, further emphasizes the absurdity of Sergius’s charge. Bluntschli’s use of humor and irony in this passage highlights the play’s anti-Romantic themes and challenges the traditional ideals of heroism and chivalry.
(iv) “Thou hast betray‟d thy nature
and thy name,
Not rendering true answer,
as bessm‟d
The fealty, nor like a noble knight.
For surea sign had follow‟d, either hand
Or voice, or else a motion of the mere.”
Answer:
This passage is from “The Passing of Arthur” by Alfred Lord Tennyson and is spoken by King Arthur to Sir Bedivere. In this passage, King Arthur is questioning Sir Bedivere about his failure to throw Excalibur, Arthur’s sword, into the lake as he had been instructed to do.
King Arthur accuses Sir Bedivere of betraying his nature and his name by not following through with his duty. He suggests that Sir Bedivere’s failure to obey his command is a sign of disloyalty and a lack of nobility. King Arthur believes that a true knight would have followed his orders without question and that Sir Bedivere’s hesitation is a sign of weakness.
The reference to a “motion of the mere” suggests that King Arthur expected some kind of supernatural sign to accompany the throwing of Excalibur into the lake. This reflects the belief in medieval times that objects and events in the natural world were imbued with spiritual significance. King Arthur’s disappointment in Sir Bedivere’s failure to follow through with his command reflects the importance of loyalty and obedience in medieval chivalry.
(v) “But when I look‟d again, behold an arm,
Clothed in white samite, mystic, wonderful,
That caught him by the hilt, and brandished him.
Three times, and drew him under in the Mere.”
Answer:
This passage is from “The Passing of Arthur” by Alfred Lord Tennyson and is spoken by Sir Bedivere to King Arthur. In this passage, Sir Bedivere is describing his attempt to throw Excalibur, King Arthur’s sword, into the lake as he had been instructed to do. Sir Bedivere hesitates and does not follow through with the command, but instead hides the sword in the reeds.
In this passage, Sir Bedivere describes a supernatural event that occurs when he attempts to throw Excalibur into the lake. He sees an arm, clothed in white samite, which catches the sword by the hilt and brandishes it three times before drawing it under the water. This event suggests that Excalibur is not an ordinary sword, but rather a mystical object with supernatural powers.
The use of the words “mystic” and “wonderful” emphasize the supernatural nature of the event. The image of the arm catching the sword and brandishing it three times before drawing it under the water is a powerful and memorable image that reflects the importance of Excalibur in Arthurian legend. The supernatural event also suggests that King Arthur’s reign is coming to an end and that the mystical powers associated with Excalibur will soon be lost.
- Write short notes on any four of the following (around 100 words each) : 4×6=24
(i) The sleepwalking scene in Macbeth
Answer:
The sleepwalking scene in Macbeth is a powerful and haunting moment in the play. It takes place in Act V, Scene I, and features Lady Macbeth, who is sleepwalking and talking to herself. She is reliving the night of Duncan’s murder and is consumed by guilt and remorse. Lady Macbeth’s sleepwalking is a powerful symbol of her psychological breakdown and the toll that her actions have taken on her. The scene is also significant because it reveals Lady Macbeth’s vulnerability and humanity, which is a stark contrast to her earlier portrayal as a strong and ruthless character. The sleepwalking scene is a powerful reminder of the consequences of unchecked ambition and the destructive power of guilt and remorse.
(ii) The character Bluntschli in Arms and the Man
Answer:
Captain Bluntschli is a central character in George Bernard Shaw’s play “Arms and the Man”. He is a Swiss mercenary who is fighting for the Serbian army during the November 1885 invasion of Bulgaria. Bluntschli is a professional soldier who is more concerned with practical matters than with the romantic ideals of war and heroism. He is portrayed as a pragmatic and resourceful character who is able to survive in difficult situations. Bluntschli’s views on war and the military are in contrast to those of the other characters in the play, who are more idealistic and romantic. Through Bluntschli, Shaw critiques the romanticized view of war and challenges traditional notions of heroism and chivalry.
(iii) Tennyson as a representative Victorian Poet
Answer:
Alfred Lord Tennyson is considered one of the most representative Victorian poets. His poetry reflects the values, concerns, and anxieties of the Victorian era. Tennyson’s poetry is characterized by a sense of nostalgia for the past, a fascination with the natural world, and a preoccupation with death and loss. His poetry also reflects the Victorian conflict between faith and science, as he grapples with the new biological theories that disputed the earlier faith in God and religion. Tennyson’s poetry is known for its musicality, its use of vivid imagery, and its exploration of complex emotions. His work was widely read and admired during his lifetime and continues to be studied and appreciated today.
(iv) The allegorical significance of Tennyson‟s poem „ Morte d‟ Arthur‟.
Answer:
“Morte d’Arthur” is a poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson that tells the story of King Arthur’s final battle and death. The poem has allegorical significance, as it uses the story of King Arthur to explore broader themes and ideas. One of the main allegorical themes of the poem is the conflict between the old and the new. King Arthur represents the old order, with its ideals of chivalry, honor, and loyalty, while the new order is represented by the forces of Mordred, who seek to overthrow Arthur and establish a new, more ruthless order. The poem also explores the themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and redemption, as Arthur’s loyal knight Sir Bedivere must make a difficult choice between his loyalty to his king and his duty to the new order. Overall, the allegorical significance of “Morte d’Arthur” lies in its exploration of timeless themes and ideas that are still relevant today.
(v) The natural world as represented in Thomas Hardy‟s Far From the Madding Crowd.
Answer:
Nature plays a significant role in Thomas Hardy’s Far From the Madding Crowd. The novel is set in the rural landscape of Wessex, and Hardy uses the natural world to reflect the moods and emotions of his characters. The changing seasons, the weather, and the landscape all serve as metaphors for the characters’ inner lives. For example, the storm that destroys Gabriel Oak’s flock of sheep symbolizes the upheaval in his life, while the blooming of the crops on Bathsheba’s farm represents her success and independence.
Hardy also uses the natural world to explore the relationship between humans and animals. The novel is full of vivid descriptions of the countryside and its inhabitants, including the sheep, dogs, and horses that play important roles in the characters’ lives. The novel’s themes of love, marriage, and social class are all intertwined with the natural world, creating a rich and complex portrait of rural life in the nineteenth century. Overall, Far From the Madding Crowd is a powerful example of how nature can be used in literature to reflect the human experience.
- Write short essays on any two of the following (around 200 words each) : 2×12=24
(i) Discuss the significance of the title of
Bernard Shaw‟s play Arms and the Man.
Answer:
The title of George Bernard Shaw’s play “Arms and the Man” is significant in several ways. Firstly, it is a reference to the opening line of Virgil’s epic poem, the Aeneid, which reads “Arma virumque cano” (I sing of arms and the man). This reference to Virgil’s epic poem sets the tone for the play, which is a satirical take on the romanticized view of war and heroism. Shaw uses the title to critique the idea of war as a noble and heroic endeavor, and instead portrays it as a brutal and senseless activity.
Secondly, the title is a reference to the play’s central character, Captain Bluntschli, who is a professional soldier and arms dealer. Bluntschli’s character is a contrast to the other characters in the play, who are more idealistic and romantic in their views of war and heroism. Through Bluntschli, Shaw critiques the romanticized view of war and challenges traditional notions of heroism and chivalry.
Finally, the title is a reference to the play’s central conflict, which is between the old and the new. The old order is represented by the romantic ideals of war and heroism, while the new order is represented by the practical and pragmatic approach of Bluntschli. The title “Arms and the Man” thus serves as a metaphor for the conflict between these two opposing forces.
In conclusion, the title of “Arms and the Man” is significant in its reference to Virgil’s epic poem, its portrayal of Captain Bluntschli, and its metaphorical representation of the play’s central conflict.
(ii) “Bathsheba Everdene is one of the best-
drawn and strongest female characters in
Hardy‟s novels.” Comment on this
statement on the basis of your reading of
the novel Far from the Madding Crowd.
Answer:
Bathsheba Everdene is undoubtedly one of the most well-drawn and strongest female characters in Thomas Hardy’s novels. She is a complex and multi-dimensional character who challenges the traditional gender roles of her time. Bathsheba is a fiercely independent woman who inherits a farm and becomes a successful farmer, defying the expectations of her society. She is also a romantic figure who is courted by three men, each of whom represents a different social class and set of values.
Throughout the novel, Bathsheba’s character is developed through her interactions with these men and her experiences as a farmer. She is shown to be intelligent, resourceful, and determined, but also vulnerable and emotional. Her struggles with love, marriage, and social expectations are all portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
What makes Bathsheba such a compelling character is her ability to navigate the challenges of her society while remaining true to herself. She is not afraid to take risks and make bold decisions, even when they go against the norms of her time. Her strength and resilience in the face of adversity make her a powerful role model for readers, especially women.
Overall, Bathsheba Everdene is a powerful example of a female character who defies the conventions of her time and asserts her independence and agency. She is a complex and nuanced character who challenges the reader’s assumptions about gender roles and social norms. Her story remains relevant today, making Far from the Madding Crowd a timeless work of literature.
(iii) Briefly discuss the central themes of Tennyson‟s poem „The Idylls of the King‟.
Answer:
“The Idylls of the King” is a collection of twelve narrative poems by Alfred Lord Tennyson that retell the story of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. The central themes of the poem include the conflict between the old and the new, the search for meaning and purpose in life, and the struggle between good and evil.
One of the main themes of the poem is the conflict between the old and the new. Tennyson uses the story of King Arthur to explore the tension between the traditional values of chivalry, honor, and loyalty, and the new values of science, progress, and modernity. This conflict is embodied in the character of Sir Galahad, who represents the new order of science and progress, and Sir Lancelot, who represents the old order of chivalry and honor.
Another central theme of the poem is the search for meaning and purpose in life. Tennyson uses the story of King Arthur to explore the human quest for meaning and purpose, and the struggle to find a sense of direction and fulfillment in life. This theme is embodied in the character of King Arthur, who is searching for a higher purpose and meaning in life, and in the quest for the Holy Grail, which represents the ultimate goal of human existence.
Finally, the poem explores the struggle between good and evil. Tennyson uses the story of King Arthur to explore the human struggle between good and evil, and the constant battle between the forces of light and darkness. This theme is embodied in the character of Mordred, who represents the forces of evil, and in the character of King Arthur, who represents the forces of good.
In conclusion, “The Idylls of the King” is a complex and multi-layered poem that explores the themes of the conflict between the old and the new, the search for meaning and purpose in life, and the struggle between good and evil.
- Answer any one of the following (in around 300 words) :
(i) According to the critic Terry Eagleton, the
real heroines of the play Macbeth, are the
witches. Do you agree with this view ?
Write a note assessing the role of the
witches in Macbeth. 20
Answer:
The role of the witches in Macbeth has been a subject of much debate among critics and scholars. Terry Eagleton, a prominent literary critic, argues that the witches are the real heroines of the play. While this view may seem controversial, there is some merit to it.
Eagleton associates the witches with a “positive value” as he calls them, “Exiles from that violent order, inhabiting their own sisterly community on its shadowy borderlands, refusing all trucks with its tribal bickering and military honours” . In other words, the witches are outsiders who reject the violent and patriarchal society of Macbeth’s Scotland. They are powerful and independent women who challenge the traditional gender roles of their time.
The witches play a crucial role in the plot of Macbeth. They are the ones who prophesy that Macbeth will become king, setting in motion the events that lead to his downfall. The witches also represent the supernatural forces that are at work in the play. They are mysterious and otherworldly, and their presence adds to the sense of foreboding and doom that pervades the play.
However, the witches are also ambiguous figures. They are not entirely good or evil, but rather a mixture of both. They are manipulative and deceptive, and their prophecies are often open to interpretation. The witches are also associated with darkness and evil, and their presence in the play suggests that there are dark forces at work in the world that are beyond human understanding.
In conclusion, while it may be controversial to call the witches the real heroines of Macbeth, there is no denying that they play a crucial role in the play. They challenge traditional gender roles, represent supernatural forces, and set in motion the events that lead to Macbeth’s downfall. The witches are complex and ambiguous figures, and their presence in the play adds to its sense of mystery and foreboding.
Or
(ii) “In Hardy‟s novels, chance plays a
predominant role almost reducing the
characters to mere puppets in the hands of
Chance or Fate.” Discuss with reference to
your reading of Far from the Madding Crowd.
Answer:
Chance and fate are recurring themes in Thomas Hardy’s novels, and Far from the Madding Crowd is no exception. In the novel, chance plays a predominant role in shaping the lives of the characters, often reducing them to mere puppets in the hands of fate.
One of the most significant examples of chance in the novel is Bathsheba’s sending of a valentine to Boldwood, which sets in motion a chain of events that leads to tragedy. If Bathsheba had not sent the valentine, or if Boldwood had not become obsessed with her, the story would have taken an entirely different path. Similarly, the arrival of Sergeant Troy in Bathsheba’s life is a result of chance, as he happens to be passing through the area and sees her.
The role of chance in the novel is also evident in the characters’ relationships with each other. Gabriel Oak’s initial proposal to Bathsheba is rejected, but he remains loyal to her and continues to work on her farm. When he loses his own farm and becomes a shepherd, he happens to be in the right place at the right time to save Bathsheba’s flock of sheep from a storm. This act of heroism leads to Bathsheba’s realization of Gabriel’s worth, and they eventually marry.
However, while chance plays a significant role in the novel, it is not the only factor that shapes the characters’ lives. Hardy also explores the idea of free will and the power of human agency. Bathsheba, for example, is a strong-willed and independent woman who defies the expectations of her society and becomes a successful farmer. She makes her own decisions and takes control of her own life, even in the face of adversity.
Overall, while chance and fate do play a predominant role in Far from the Madding Crowd, Hardy also explores the idea of human agency and the power of free will. The novel is a powerful exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the social structures that shape them, and it remains a timeless work of literature.