RBSE Solutions Class 11 English Delight & Wisdom Chapter 9 The Three Dancing Goats

Textual Activities

Comprehension

(A) Tick the Correct Alternative:

Question 1. The narrator of the story is
(a) Sindhu
(b) Sindhu's mother
(c) the old woman
(d) Baba Trinco
Answer: (d) Baba Trinco
In simple words: The story is told by Baba Trinco. He is the person who is sharing what happened in the tale.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always identify the narrator early in a story, as it helps understand the perspective and tone of the narrative.

Question 3. The land lord's daughter agreed to go to the peasant's hut because
(a) she wanted to meet Sindhu's mother
(b) she liked Sindhu
(c) she was very eager to have a goat
(d) her father wanted her to do so.
Answer: (c) she was very eager to have a goat
In simple words: The landlord's daughter really wanted a goat. That's why she agreed to visit the peasant's hut. Her strong desire for the goat made her agree.

🎯 Exam Tip: When analyzing character motivations, look for direct statements or actions that reveal their true desires, rather than assumptions.

(B) Answer to the Following Questions Should Not Exceed 10-15 Words Each:

Question 1. What did Sindhu get in exchange for his two cows?
Answer: Sindhu received three dancing goats and a magical flute for his two cows. He believed this trade would bring him good luck.
In simple words: Sindhu got three dancing goats and a magic flute. He gave his two cows for them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state both what was given and what was received in exchange when answering questions about trades or transactions.

Question 2. Why did Sindhu and his mother want to sell their cows?
Answer: Sindhu and his mother needed to sell their cows because there was a drought that year, and they did not have enough food (fodder) for the animals. The drought had made resources scarce.
In simple words: They wanted to sell their cows because there was a drought. They had no food for the cows.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining reasons, ensure you connect the action (selling cows) directly to the cause (drought and lack of fodder).

Question 3. Why did the landlord's daughter want her father to summon Sindhu?
Answer: The landlord's daughter wanted her father to call Sindhu because she was eager to see his dancing goats. The news of the goats' performance had reached her.
In simple words: She wanted her father to call Sindhu. She wanted to see his dancing goats.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the direct cause-and-effect relationship: what prompted the daughter's request for Sindhu to be summoned?

Question 4. Who was eager to have the three dancing goats from Sindhu?
Answer: The beautiful and wealthy daughter of the landlord was very eager to get the three dancing goats from Sindhu. Their unique talent fascinated her.
In simple words: The rich and pretty daughter of the landlord really wanted the three dancing goats.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked "Who," name the character clearly and add a brief descriptor if it clarifies their role or motivation.

Question 5. What did the landlord's daughter ask for along with the third goat?
Answer: The landlord's daughter also asked for the magical flute that made the goats dance, along with the third goat. She knew the flute was essential for the performance.
In simple words: She asked for the flute. This flute made the goats dance.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note all items mentioned in a request, especially if one item is crucial for the function of another, like the flute for the dancing goats.

Question 6. What promise was made by the old woman regarding Sindhu's cows?
Answer: The old woman promised Sindhu that his cows would be looked after very well. She assured him of their proper care. This promise helped Sindhu agree to the exchange.
In simple words: The old woman promised to take good care of Sindhu's cows. She said they would be well looked after.

🎯 Exam Tip: When stating a promise, mention both the person who made it and the specific assurance given.

(C) Answer to the Following Questions Should Not Exceed 20-30 Words Each:

Question 1. Why did Sindhu accept the offer made by the old woman?
Answer: Sindhu accepted the old woman's offer because he trusted her. He also thought he could earn money every day by entertaining people in the village with the dancing goats. This made him hopeful.
In simple words: Sindhu trusted the old woman. He also believed he could earn money by entertaining villagers with the goats.

🎯 Exam Tip: When explaining why a character accepts an offer, include both their belief in the offerer and any perceived personal benefits.

Question 3. What price did Sindhu ask for the third goat and the flute?
Answer: Sindhu asked the landlord's daughter to explain the meaning of the three colored stones in the gold ring she had given him. He also requested a large amount of food (a barrel of foodstuffs). His requests were specific and meaningful to him.
In simple words: Sindhu asked for the meaning of the three colored stones in her ring. He also asked for a barrel full of food.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be precise when listing conditions or demands made by a character; include all parts of the price or trade details.

Question 4. What did the village soothsayer tell the girl about the goats?
Answer: The village soothsayer told the girl that a goat would never dance alone; it needed a companion. This is why the girl then asked for another goat to ensure the performance. He revealed an important condition.
In simple words: The soothsayer said a goat would not dance alone. So, the girl asked for another goat.

🎯 Exam Tip: When citing advice or information, specify the source (soothsayer) and the key detail of the message (goats need companions to dance).

Question 5. Why was Sindhu happy to work as a labourer on the landlord's farm?
Answer: Sindhu was happy to work on the landlord's farm because it allowed him to catch quick glimpses of his daughter. Being close to her, even secretly, brought him joy and motivation. He missed her greatly.
In simple words: Sindhu was happy to work there because he could see his daughter for a short time.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about a character's happiness or motivation, link it directly to the emotional benefit or gain they experience.

(D) Answer to the Following Questions Should Not Exceed 60-80 Words Each:

Question 1. What did the three different colours of the stones set in the ring mean?
Answer: The three colored stones in the ring symbolized the three unusual hair strands hidden in the landlord's daughter's black silken hair. One was white like a diamond, another dark red like a ruby, and the third was bright green like an emerald. These stones visually represented the unique aspects of her appearance, holding a hidden meaning about her.
In simple words: The three stones in the ring meant the three strange colored hairs in her black hair. One was white, one was red, and one was green, just like her hair strands.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing symbolic meanings, clearly link each symbol (stone color) to what it represents (hair color) and explain the overall significance.

Question 2. How did the other suitors react to Sindhu's success?
Answer: The other suitors were shocked and very disappointed by Sindhu's success. They thought it was a mistake of fate, believing God was playing tricks. One suitor even called it a curse instead of a blessing. However, when Sindhu calmly explained his success was due to faith, love, and patience, the angry suitors became quiet. This showed how his inner strength silenced their doubts.
In simple words: Other suitors were surprised and sad about Sindhu winning. They thought it was bad luck or God's trick. But Sindhu said it was because of faith, love, and patience, and then they became quiet.

🎯 Exam Tip: When detailing reactions, ensure you cover both initial emotional responses and any subsequent changes based on new information or explanations.

Question 3. How did Sindhu explain his success? Did he have full faith in the old woman's promise of good fortune?
Answer: When other suitors complained loudly, Sindhu calmly explained that his success came from faith, love, and patience. He truly believed the old woman's promise that the dancing goats would bring good fortune to his family. The old woman's words stayed in his mind, giving him confidence to speak the truth and win the girl. This deep belief guided his actions and words.
In simple words: Sindhu explained his success came from faith, love, and patience. He completely believed the old woman's promise that the goats would bring good luck.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always address all parts of a multi-part question. Here, both "how he explained" and "his faith" are crucial.

(E) Say Whether the Following Statements Are True or False. Write 'T' for True and 'F' for False in the Bracket:

Question. Say whether the following statements are True or False.
Answer:
1. Sindhu sold his cows to a butcher.
\( \implies \) False
2. The old woman and Sindhu plucked leaves from the tree to feed their pets.
\( \implies \) True
3. Sindhu believed that the three dancing goats would bring him good luck.
\( \implies \) True
4. Many young men from all parts of the country came to try their luck.
\( \implies \) True
5. Sindhu entered the landlord's house as a servant of a rich suitor.
\( \implies \) True
6. When Sindhu entered the landlord's house, the landlord immediately recognized him.
\( \implies \) False
In simple words: Check each statement against the story facts. If it matches, it's True; if it doesn't, it's False. This helps confirm understanding of the plot.

🎯 Exam Tip: For True/False questions, read each statement carefully and recall specific events from the story to verify its accuracy.

RBSE Class 11 English Delight & Wisdom Chapter 9 Additional Questions

(A) Answer to the Following Questions Should Not Exceed 30-40 Words Each:

Question 1. Where did Sindhu and his mother live and what did they possess?
Answer: Sindhu and his mother lived in a small hut made of bamboo. They owned two cows, a small piece of land for grazing, and their simple bamboo hut. Their possessions were humble but sufficient for their needs.
In simple words: Sindhu and his mother lived in a small bamboo hut. They had two cows, a small grazing field, and their hut.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing setting and possessions, be specific about the type of dwelling and the animals/land owned.

Question 3. Why did Sindhu start for the market place and did he reach the market?
Answer: Sindhu started for the market to sell his cows because they were facing a drought and lacked fodder. However, he did not reach the market because he met an old woman on the way who changed his plans. This encounter altered his journey entirely.
In simple words: Sindhu went to the market to sell his cows because of the drought. But he did not reach there because he met an old woman.

🎯 Exam Tip: For "why" and "did X happen" questions, explain the initial intent and then any event that changed the outcome.

Question 4. What made Sindhu accept the offer made by the old woman?
Answer: Sindhu accepted the old woman's offer because she promised him that the goats were more valuable than money and would eventually bring him good fortune. This hopeful promise convinced him. He chose to believe in the potential of the goats.
In simple words: Sindhu accepted the offer because the old woman promised him that the goats were better than money and would bring good luck.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state the specific aspect of the offer (the promise of future fortune and value) that convinced the character.

Question 5. With what things did Sindhu return home and what was his mother's reaction to that?
Answer: Sindhu returned home with a flute and three goats. His mother was very sad and worried. She thought that market people had tricked her son or that he had lost his mind for making such an unusual trade. Her reaction showed concern and disbelief.
In simple words: Sindhu came home with a flute and three goats. His mother was sad, thinking he had been cheated or had gone crazy.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about a reaction, describe both the emotion and the reason behind it to provide a complete answer.

Question 7. What did Sindhu wear in order to enter into the house of the landowner?
Answer: To enter the landowner's house, Sindhu wore a beautiful servant's uniform (livery) and a silk turban. This disguise helped him blend in and gain access to the house without being recognized as a peasant. He needed to appear appropriate for the setting.
In simple words: Sindhu wore a beautiful servant's uniform and a silk turban. This helped him get into the landowner's house.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about attire, specify the type of clothing and any accessories mentioned, especially if it serves a specific purpose.

Question 8. Why did Sindhu want to marry the landowner's daughter?
Answer: Sindhu wanted to marry the landowner's daughter because she was extremely beautiful and he was deeply in love with her. Her beauty and his affection were the primary reasons for his desire to marry her. He was captivated by her charm.
In simple words: Sindhu wanted to marry the landowner's daughter because she was very beautiful and he loved her a lot.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the direct emotional and aesthetic reasons when explaining why a character desires to marry someone.

(B) Answer to the Following Questions Should Not Exceed 50-60 Words Each:

Question 1. What did Sindhu think after watching the dance performance of the goats? How did this help him accept the old woman's offer?
Answer: After seeing the goats dance to the flute, Sindhu felt very happy and his doubts disappeared. He had previously wondered if the old woman's promise of fortune was true. Now, he thought that even if the goats didn't bring wealth, they could surely help him earn money by entertaining people. This realization confirmed his decision to accept the old woman's offer. He saw a practical benefit.
In simple words: After watching the goats dance, Sindhu felt happy and lost his doubts. He thought he could earn money by entertaining villagers, even if he didn't get rich. This made him accept the offer.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain the thought process (initial doubt, new realization) and how it led to a final decision, addressing all parts of the question.

Question 2. How did the news about the goats make the landlord's daughter eager and what did she decide after watching the dance of the goats?
Answer: When the landlord's daughter heard about Sindhu's dancing goats, she became very eager and impatient to see them. She asked her father to bring Sindhu to entertain her. After watching the goats dance and enjoying the performance greatly, she immediately decided to buy one of the goats, no matter what price Sindhu asked for. The performance greatly impressed her.
In simple words: The news of the dancing goats made the landlord's daughter eager. After seeing them dance, she decided to buy one, no matter the cost.

🎯 Exam Tip: Describe both the initial reaction to the news and the subsequent decision made after experiencing the event firsthand.

Question 3. Why did Sindhu hesitate to reveal the secret of the girl's hair?
Answer: Sindhu hesitated to reveal the secret of the girl's hair because he considered himself a poor peasant, working as a laborer. He feared the landlord would not even allow him into his grand house, let alone agree to marry his daughter to a peasant. Therefore, he first entered the house as a rich suitor's servant to get closer. He needed to be inside to reveal the secret and win the challenge.
In simple words: Sindhu was a poor peasant, so he worried the landlord wouldn't let him marry his daughter. He hesitated because of his low social status.

🎯 Exam Tip: When analyzing hesitation, consider the character's self-perception, social standing, and potential consequences of their actions.

Question 4. What was Sindhu's great ambition and how did he finally succeed in realising it?
Answer: Sindhu's greatest ambition in life was to marry the beautiful daughter of the landlord. He achieved this by selling his three dancing goats and the flute, then uncovering the secret of the three hidden hairs in her black silken locks. Sindhu revealed this secret at the 'Swayamvar' (a ceremony where the bride chooses her groom), which the landlord had arranged for his daughter's marriage. In this way, he successfully won her hand and fulfilled his big dream. His cleverness and love helped him achieve this.
In simple words: Sindhu's big dream was to marry the landlord's beautiful daughter. He made it happen by selling his goats and revealing the secret of her three special hairs at her 'Swayamvar'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Detail both the ambition and the specific steps taken to achieve it, highlighting key actions and events that led to success.

Question 5. What doubts did Sindhu have regarding his marriage before he entered into the house of the landowner?
Answer: Before entering the landowner's house, Sindhu had doubts about marrying the beautiful girl. He worried that as a poor peasant, the girl herself might not want to be the wife of his father's servant. He also thought that the landowner might not allow his daughter to marry a peasant like him. These social differences made him unsure, despite his feelings for her. He understood the societal barriers they faced.
In simple words: Sindhu doubted if he, a poor peasant, could marry the landlord's daughter. He feared she might not like him, and her father would not agree.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on internal conflicts and external societal factors when discussing a character's doubts about a significant life event like marriage.

Question 6. Why was Sindhu compelled to sell his cows?
Answer: Sindhu was forced to sell his cows because that year there was a very bad drought, leaving no food (fodder) for their two cows. Even though he and his mother loved their cows deeply, they didn't have money to buy food for themselves, let alone for the cattle. The difficult situation compelled them to sell the cows in the market to survive. It was a harsh necessity.
In simple words: Sindhu had to sell his cows because of a severe drought. There was no food for the cows, and the family had no money.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize the severity of the circumstances (drought, lack of money) that forced the character to make a difficult decision.