UP Board Solutions Class 11 English Chapter 3 The Ant and the Grasshopper

UP Board Class 11th English Prose Chapter 3 Questions and Answers

कक्षा 11 अंग्रेजी पाठ 3 के प्रश्न उत्तर

These Solutions are part of UP Board Solutions for Class 11 English. Here we have given UP Board Solutions for Class 11 English Prose Chapter 3 The Ant and the Grasshopper.

Lesson At A Glance

George Ramsay and Tom Ramsay were two brothers. George was the elder of the two and both had quite opposite qualities. George, like an ant, was hardworking, sincere and punctual in his life. He had an affectionate family and he was a loving father. Like an ant he believed in saving money for a rainy day. He planned to save about thirty thousand pounds before his retirement and then to cultivate his farm and play golf.

Tom Ramsay was like a grasshopper. He had a family too. One day he announced that he won't work at one place. So, he left his family and went away. He had a little money which he spent in visiting various capitals of Europe. Now he started borrowing money from friends, newly-made friends and George Ramsay. But there was no end to this borrowing. Now, he did not hesitate even in blackmailing his elder brother.

One day the writer found George Ramsay lunching by himself in a restaurant. He was very sad. When asked by the author about his sadness, George told him that there was no justice on this earth. His brother, Tom who had been an idle, worthless and dishonourable rogue for the last 20 years or so, had with him half a million pounds, a yacht, a house in London and a house in country, whereas he himself had hardly anything with him.

As a matter of fact, Tom had married a rich old woman who left all this fortune for Tom after her death.

The writer concludes that Tom still borrows a triffle from him but that is merely force of habit.

पाठ का हिन्दी अनुवाद

1. When I was ............90 and dance.

जब मैं एक छोटा लड़का था, तब मुझे ला फॉन्टेन की छोटी-छोटी कहानियाँ रटवाई गईं और मुझे प्रत्येक कहानी की शिक्षा को सावधानीपूर्वक समझाया गया। उन कहानियों में से जो मैंने याद की थीं एक थी The Ant and the Grasshopper जिसे छोटे बच्चों को यह लाभदायक शिक्षा देने के लिए बनाया गया है कि इस अपूर्ण संसार में परिश्रमी व्यक्ति को इनाम अर्थात् सुख मिलता है और लापरवाह व्यक्ति को दण्ड अर्थात् दुःख मिलता है। इस प्रशंसनीय कहानी में (मैं वह बताने के लिए क्षमा माँगता हूँ जो प्रत्येक व्यक्ति अपूर्ण रूप से जानता है) चींटी गर्मियों के मौसम में जाड़ों के लिए भोजन एकत्रित करने में अपना समय मेहनत से व्यतीत करती है, जबकि टिड्डा सूर्य की ओर मुंह करके घास की पत्ती पर बैठा गाता रहता है। जाड़ा आ जाता है और चींटी के पास पर्याप्त भोजन होता है, किन्तु टिड्डे का भण्डार खाली होता है। अब वह चींटी के पास जाता है और कुछ भोजन माँगता है। तब चींटी उसे अपना सर्वोत्तम उत्तर देती है- “आप गर्मियों में क्या करते रहे ? ” श्रीमती जी, मैं गाता रहा, मैं रात-दिन गाता रहा।” “आप गाते रहे, तो अब क्यों परेशान होते हो, जाइए और नाचिए ।”

2. I do not...... and commonsense.

मैं इस पाठ के उपदेश से स्वयं को सहमत न कर सका। इसका कारण मैं अपनी हठधर्मी को नहीं बता सकता, बल्कि इसका कारण बचपन में विचारों की अपरिपक्वता हो सकता है जिसके कारण नैतिक ज्ञान में कमी रही। मेरी सहानुभूति टिड्डे के साथ थी और कुछ समय तक तो मैंने किसी भी चींटी को बिना पैर से मसले नहीं छोड़ा और इस प्रकार इस पाठ में मैं तुरन्त दूरदर्शिता एवं व्यावहारिक ज्ञान के प्रति अपनी अस्वीकृति प्रकट करता था। (तब से मैंने पाया कि यह पूर्ण रूप से मानवीय कार्य है ।)

3. I could not ...........quite hopeless.

एक दिन मुझे यह कहानी याद आ गई जब मैंने जॉर्ज रामसे को एक होटल में अकेले-अकेले दोपहर का भोजन करते देखा। इससे पहले मैंने किसी भी व्यक्ति को इतना उदास नहीं देखा था। वह आकाश की ओर टकटकी लगाकर देख रही था। वह ऐसे दिखाई पड़ता था मानो सारे संसार का बोझ उसी के कन्धों पर आ गया हो। उसे देखकर मुझे बड़ा दुःख हुआ । मुझे तुरन्त यह सन्देह हुआ कि उसका अभागा भाई ही उसे पुनः कष्ट दे रहा होगा। मैं उसके निकट आ गया और मैंने अपना हाथ बढ़ाया। आपके हाल-चाल कैसे हैं ?” मैंने पूछा। “मैं आनन्दपूर्वक नहीं हूँ।” उसने उत्तर दिया। “क्या इसका कारण पुनः टॉम है ?” “हाँ, पुनः टॉम ही इसका कारण है।” “आप उसे छोड़ क्यों नहीं देते ? आपने इस संसार में उसके लिए सब कुछ किया है, अब तो आपको समझे लेना चाहिए कि वह बिल्कुल मूर्ख है।”

4. I suppose every ...........to refuse a loan.

मेरा विचार है कि परिवार में एक-न-एक व्यक्ति बेकार अवश्य होता है। बीस वर्षों से टॉम अपने परिवार के लिए भारी परेशानी का कारण बना हुआ था। उसने अपना जीवन बहुत अच्छे ढंग से आरम्भ किया, व्यापार किया, विवाह किया और दो बच्चे हो गए। रामसे परिवार के व्यक्ति पूर्ण रूप से सम्मानित व्यक्ति थे और सभी की यह धारणा थी कि टॉम रामसे एक लाभदायक और सम्मानित जीवन व्यतीत करेगा। किन्तु एक दिन बिना किसी चेतावनी के उसने घोषित किया कि उसे कार्य पसन्द नहीं है और विवाहित जीवन उसके उपयुक्त नहीं है। वह अपने जीवन का आनन्द भोगना चाहता था, उसने कोई भी शिकायत अथवा वाद-विवाद नहीं सुना। उसने अपनी पत्नी तथा काम-काज को छोड़ दिया। उसके पास थोड़ा-सा धन था और उसने यूरोप के भिन्न-भिन्न नगरों में दो वर्ष आनन्द से बिताए । समय-समय पर उसके कारनामों की खबरें उसके रिश्तेदारों के पास पहुँचती रहीं और वे इससे बहुत दुःखी होते थे । निश्चित रूप से उसका समय बहुत अच्छा था। वे सिर हिलाते थे और आपस में पूछते थे कि जब धन समाप्त हो जाएगा तब क्या होगा। उन्हें शीघ्र पता लगा कि वह धन उधार लेती है। वह एक आकर्षक और विवेकहीन व्यक्ति है। मुझे ऐसा कोई भी व्यक्ति नहीं मिला जिसे कर्जा देने के लिए मना करना कठिन लगता हो।

5. He made a steady ......... George paid.

उसने आसानी से अपने मित्रों से नियमित आमदनी बना ली और वह मित्र भी आसानी से बना लेता था, किन्तु वह अपने मित्रों से सदा कहा करता था कि जो धन तुम अपने जीवन की आवश्यकताओं पर खर्च करते हो, वह आनन्दरहित है और जो धन विलासितापूर्ण जीवन पर व्यय किया जाता है उसी से आनन्द प्राप्त होता है। इसके लिए वह अपने बड़े भाई जॉर्ज पर निर्भर रहता था। परन्तु उसने अपना सौन्दर्य रूपी आकर्षण अपने भाई पर बरबाद नहीं किया। जॉर्ज एक गम्भीर व्यक्ति था और इस प्रकार के प्रलोभनों के प्रति वह उदासीन था। एक या दो बार वह टॉम के बहकावे में आ गया कि वह अपने अन्दर सुधार करेगा और उसने उसे काफी धन दे दिया ताकि वह अपना कोई नया कार्य प्रारम्भ कर सके। इस धन से टॉम ने एक मोटरसाइकिल खरीद ली और कुछ बढ़िया आभूषण, किन्तु जब परिस्थितियों ने जॉर्ज को यह सोचने के लिए विवश कर दिया कि वह स्थिर नहीं हो सकता तब उसने उसके लिए कुछ भी करना बन्द कर दिया, नि-संकोच होकर टॉम अपने भाई को ब्लैकमेल करने लगा। एक प्रतिष्ठित वकील को यह अच्छा नहीं लगता था कि उसका भाई उसी के प्रिय भोजनालय के शराबखाने में शराब की कॉकटेल बनाए या वह अपने भाई को अपने ही क्लब के बाहर टैक्सी में ड्राइवर की सीट पर सवारियों की प्रतीक्षा करते हुए देखे । टॉम ने कहा कि किसी शराबखाने में नौकरी करना तथा टैक्सी चलाना भी एक अच्छा व्यवसाय है। किन्तु यदि जॉर्ज उसे कई सौ पौंड देने की कृपा करे, तो वह परिवार की प्रतिष्ठा के लिए इसे छोड़ने में संकोच नहीं करेगा। जॉर्ज ने उसे धन दे दिया।

6. Once Tom nearly ......... happy month there.

एक बार टॉम जेल जाने ही वाला था। जॉर्ज अत्यधिक परेशान था। वह इस अपमानजनक कार्य की गहराई में पहुँचा । वास्तव में टॉम सीमा के बाहर था। वह जंगली, विवेकहीन और स्वार्थी हो गया था। किन्तु इससे पहले उसने कोई ऐसा बेईमानी का कार्य नहीं किया जो जॉर्ज के लिए गैर-कानूनी हो और यदि उस पर मुकदमा चलाया गया, तो उसे सजा अवश्य होगी । किन्तु कोई भी व्यक्ति अपने भाई को जेल नहीं जाने देना चाहेगा। क्रोनशा नामक व्यक्ति, जिसे टॉम ने धोखा दिया था, उसे क्षमा करने को तैयार न था। उसने निश्चय कर लिया था कि वह इस मामले को कचहरी में ले जाएगा। उसने कहा कि टॉम दुष्ट है और उसे दण्ड मिलना चाहिए। इस मामले को निपटाने में जॉर्ज को बहुत परेशानी उठानी पड़ी और पाँच सौ पौंड भी खर्च करने पड़े। मैंने जॉर्ज को इतना गुस्से में कभी नहीं देखा जितना उस दिन जब जॉर्ज ने सुना कि टॉम और क्रोनशा चेक भुनाते ही साथ-साथ मॉण्टकाल नामक जुआघर में गए। वहाँ उन्होंने एक महीना आनन्द से बिताया।

7. For twenty years - help king him.

बीस वर्ष तक टॉम घुडसवारी में भाग लेता रहा, जुआ खेलता रहा, सुन्दर-से-सुन्दर लड़कियों के साथ प्रेमालाप करता रहा, नाचा, अच्छे-से-अच्छे होटल में खाना खाया और सुन्दर कपड़े पहने। वह सदा चुस्त और सुन्दर दिखाई देता था। यद्यपि उसकी आयु 46 वर्ष की थी, किन्तु कोई भी उसे 35 वर्ष से अधिक का नहीं कहता था। वह सभी को प्रसन्न करने वाला साथी था और यद्यपि प्रत्येक व्यक्ति जानता था कि वह बिल्कुल बेकार आदमी है, किन्तु फिर भी वह उसकी संगति में रहना चाहता था। उसके ऊँचे विचार थे, सदा प्रसन्नचित्त रहता था और उसमें अविश्वसनीय आकर्षण था। अपने जीवन की आवश्यकताओं को पूरा करने के लिए यदि वह नियमित रूप से भी मुझसे कुछ धन वसूल कर लेता था तब भी मुझे इस बात की कोई शिकायत नहीं थी। मैं सदा 50 पौंड की रकम उसे यह सोचकर दे देता था कि शायद उसका मेरे ऊपर कर्जा है। टॉम रामसे प्रत्येक व्यक्ति को जानता था और प्रत्येक व्यक्ति टॉम रामसे को जानता था। आप उसकी संगति को पसन्द नहीं करेंगे फिर भी आप उसकी ओर आकर्षित अवश्य होंगे ।

8. Poor George - hands and said.

जॉर्ज जो अपने निकम्मे भाई से केवल एक वर्ष बेड़ा था, 60 वर्ष का दिखाई पड़ता था। अपनी पच्चीस वर्ष की नौकरी में उसने 15 दिन से अधिक का अवकाश नहीं लिया। वह अपने दफ्तर में सदा सुबह साढ़े नौ बजे पहुँच जाता और शाम को 6 बजे से पहले कभी नहीं छोड़ता था। वह ईमानदार, मेहनती और योग्य था। उसकी एक सज्जन पत्नी थी जिसे उसने कभी कल्पना में भी नहीं सोचा था कि वह बेवफा होगी। वह चार पुत्रियों का सर्वश्रेष्ठ पिता था। वह अपनी आमदनी का एक-तिहाई भाग बचाता था तथा उसकी योजना थी कि वह 55 वर्ष की आयु में सेवा-निवृत्त हो जाए और गाँव में किसी छोटे

मकान में रहे और अपने बाग की देखभाल करे तथा गोल्फ नामक खेल खेले । उसे इस बात की प्रसन्नता थी कि वह बूढ़ा हो रहा है, क्योंकि टॉम भी बूढ़ा हो रहा था। उसने अपने हाथ मले और कहा :

9. "It was all ........... to place me".

" जब तक टॉम युवा और सुन्दर था तब तक सब ठीक था किन्तु वह मुझसे एक ही वर्ष छोटा है। चार वर्ष बाद वह पचास साल का हो जाएगा। तब उसे जीवन इतना आसान नहीं लगेगा। जब मैं पचास वर्ष का हो जाऊँगा तब तक मेरे पास तीस हजार पौंड होंगे। पच्चीस वर्ष से मैं कह रहा हूँ कि टॉम का जीवन नरक के समान हो जाएगा। तब हम देखेंगे कि उसे अपना जीवन कैसा लगेगा। तब हम देखेंगे कि सबसे अधिक लाभ काम करने में है या निष्क्रिय बैठने में ।”

बेचारा जॉर्ज ! मुझे उससे सहानुभूति थी। जब मैं उसके निकट बैठा था तब मुझे यह सोचकर आश्चर्य हुआ कि टॉम ने ऐसी क्या गलती की है। जॉर्ज स्पष्ट रूप से बहुत परेशान था।

क्या तुम जानते हो कि अब क्या हुआ है ?” उसने मुझसे पूछा।

मैं बुरी से बुरी खबर सुनने को तैयार था। मुझे आश्चर्य हुआ कि क्या टॉम आखिरकार पुलिस के हाथों में पड़ गया। जॉर्ज बड़ी कठिनाई से बोला ।

“तुम इस बात से इन्कार नहीं कर सकते कि मैं अपने पूरे जीवनभर परिश्रमी रहा, बढ़िया, सम्मानित एवं सीधा-सादा रहा। मेहनत और बचत का जीवन व्यतीत करने के बाद मैं सेवा-मुक्त होने की प्रतीक्षा उसी आमदनी पर कर रहा हूँ जो सुरक्षित ढंग से लगाए धन (बचत-पत्र आदि) से प्राप्त होगी। भगवान् ने मुझे जिस स्थिति में भी रखा है, उसी में मैंने सदा अपना कर्तव्य निभाया है।”

10. “True”........ a sovereign.

“ठीक है।”

“तुम इस बात से भी इन्कार नहीं कर सकते कि टॉम बहुत सुस्त, बेकार, आवारा, असम्मानित बदमाश रहा है। यदि न्याय होता तब आज वह अनाथालय में होता।”

“ठीक है।” जॉर्ज का चेहरा लाल हो गया।

“कुछ सप्ताह पूर्व उसने अपनी माँ के बराबर आयु की एक बूढी स्त्री से शादी कर ली। अब वह मर गई और अपना धन उसके लिए छोड़ गई-पाँच लाख पौंड, एक जहाज, एक मकान लन्दन में और एक मकान गाँव में ।”

जॉर्ज रामसे ने अपना मुक्का मेज पर मारा ।

“यह ठीक नहीं है। मैं तुम्हें बताता हूँ, यह ठीक नहीं है। वह नरक में जाए, यह ठीक नहीं है।”

मैं अपने आपको रोक नहीं सका। मैं ठहाका मारकर हँस पड़ा जब मैंने जॉर्ज के गुस्से से लाल-पीले चेहरे को देखा। मैं अपनी कुर्सी पर लुढक गया। मैं तो लगभग फर्श पर ही गिर पड़ा था। जॉर्ज ने मुझे कभी क्षमा नहीं किया। किन्तु टॉम मुझे बहुधा अपने मेफेयर में स्थित शानदार मकान में रात्रि-भोज पर बुलाया करता था और यदि कभी-कभी वह मुझसे थोड़ा-सा धन माँगता भी तो ऐसा वह आदत से लाचार होकर करता था। यह कभी भी एक सिक्के से अधिक नहीं होता था।

Understanding The Text

Explanations

Explain one of the following passages with reference to the context :

Question 1. Among those I........... punished.
Reference: These lines have been taken from the essay 'The Ant and the Grasshopper' written by W. S. Maugham.
Context: In this lesson the writer recalls the old fable of 'The Ant and the Grasshopper.' The ant worked hard throughout summer and stored food for winter. On the other hand the grasshopper only sang and did nothing. In the same way George worked hard and earned money. But his brother Tom borrowed money and spent it on his luxuries.
Explanation: The writer had learnt many stories. The story 'The Ant and the Grasshopper' was one of them. It teaches a great moral that industry is rewarded and giddiness punished. The laborious ant was happy in winter while the lazy grasshopper suffered starvation. In the same way a man who is sincere and laborious is always happy and contented. But a man who idles away his time repents in the end.
In simple words: This passage explains that hard work leads to rewards, while idleness brings suffering, as seen in the fable of the ant and the grasshopper, where the diligent ant thrives and the lazy grasshopper starves.

🎯 Exam Tip: When analyzing passages, ensure you clearly identify the source and author in the reference, and connect the context to the main themes of the story.

Question 2. I do not ascribe......... and common sense.
Context: In this lesson the writer says that he was very fond of reading stories. Here he gives reference of the story ‘The Ant and the Grasshopper'. The laborious ant passed its winter also happily while the lazy grasshopper suffered starvation. So, he learnt from this story that industry is rewarded and giddiness punished.
Explanation: In these lines the writer says that in his childhood he could not agree with this moral. Its reason was not that he was adamant or he purposely did what was wrong. But it was due to lack of proper thinking and common sense. Immaturity was another reason. He always had sympathy with the grasshopper which did nothing and only sang and danced. No doubt in actual life also generally the same thing is noticed. Hard working George suffered much in his life while worthless Tom passed a comfortable luxurious life.
In simple words: The author, from childhood, couldn't fully agree with the fable's moral, feeling sympathy for the carefree grasshopper, and observed this pattern in real life with the hardworking George and the luxurious Tom.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on understanding the author's personal perspective and how it contrasts with traditional morals, using character examples to support your point.

Question 3. I could not .......... out my hand.
Context: In this lesson the writer recalls the old fable of “The Ant and the Grasshopper'. The ant worked hard throughout summer and stored food for winter. On the other hand the grasshopper only sang and did nothing. In the same way George worked hard and earned money. But his brother Tom borrowed money and spent it on his luxuries.
Explanation: One day the writer saw George Ramsay taking his lunch all alone in a restaurant. He was so gloomy that the writer had never seen him in such a mood. He was looking into the space. The writer had full sympathy with George. He guessed that his brother Tom would have troubled him again. The writer stood near him and held his hand.
In simple words: The author recounts seeing George Ramsay deeply distressed while alone at lunch, immediately suspecting that his brother Tom was the cause of his sadness once more.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to character emotions and the underlying reasons for their distress, as this reveals key plot points and character relationships.

Question 4. I suppose every ...... no expostulations.
Context: In this lesson the writer describes the life of two real brothers-George Ramsay and Tom Ramsay. George was elder brother while Tom was younger. But both of them were contrary to each other. George was sincere, serious and hard working while Tom was careless, idle and dissolute rogue.
Explanation: In this passage the writer describes the early life of Tom Ramsay and a sudden change in him. According to the writer in every family there is an unwanted person like Tom. Tom had been a great problem for his family. He started his early life decently well, started business, married and had two children. He passed a happy married life and was respected like his elder brother George. But one day all of a sudden, he left his wife and office saying that the work and marriage did not suit him. He wanted to enjoy his life all alone. He also announced that he would not listen to any complaints or protests.
In simple words: This passage details Tom Ramsay's early respectable life and his sudden decision to abandon his family and work to pursue a carefree existence, despite being a problem for his family.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing character changes, highlight the initial state, the turning point, and the resulting behavior to show development.

Question 5. But one day without ......... money was spent.
Context: Here the writer is describing the feeling of George Ramsay about his younger brother Tom Ramsay. George Ramsay was in a very gloomy mood.
Explanation: All of a sudden Tom Ramsay left his family all alone. He did not like to work and said that life was for enjoyment. He left his home with the little money he had. He passed two years happily visiting the capitals of European countries. Though Tom was enjoying himself, his relatives got disturbed on this account. They knew that he would be in hot water when his money was exhausted.
In simple words: Tom Ramsay suddenly left his family to enjoy life, traveling Europe with his money, causing distress among his relatives who anticipated future trouble when his funds ran out.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect the actions of one character to the reactions and concerns of others to illustrate relationship dynamics and foreshadow events.

Question 6. He was charming ........... luxuries.
Context: Here, the writer describes Tom. Tom belonged to a respectable family known as Ramsay's family. He started his life decently. He had a wife and two children. But all of a sudden, one day he left his wife and office. He spent two happy years in various capitals of Europe. He borrowed money from his friends.
Explanation: In these lines the writer tells us about Tom and his habits. He had become habitual of taking loan from his friends. No doubt he was handsome, yet he was foolish. But he had an art of making friends. He had such an impression upon his friends that none of them could refuse to give him money. According to him, money should not be spent on our daily needs. It is boring. Money should be spent on luxuries and then it will be joyful for us.
In simple words: Tom was handsome and skilled at charming friends into lending him money, believing funds should be spent on luxuries rather than necessities to maximize enjoyment.

🎯 Exam Tip: When analyzing character traits, differentiate between positive attributes (like charm) and negative habits (like borrowing without repayment) to present a balanced view.

Question 7. He was a most in his debt.
Context: In this passage George describes some qualities of Tom. He says that Tom was a most amusing companion and though the people knew he was perfectly worthless you could not but enjoy his society.
Explanation: Here George describes Tom's merits and demerits. He says that Tom had high spirits, an unfailing gaity and charm. He had an art of making friends. George himself also gives him money. George likes him but not his works.
In simple words: George acknowledges Tom's charming and high-spirited nature, which made him popular, but despite this, George disapproves of Tom's irresponsible actions and financial dependence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note how characters perceive each other, distinguishing between superficial appeal and genuine worth, which often reveals deeper themes.

Question 8. "You're not going ........... to place me.”
Context: George was very upset on the strange doings of his younger brother Tom. He told author how he worked hard and saved money for his future life. Living amongst critical circumstances he did not lose his patience and faced all the difficulties.
Explanation: In these lines George told the writer about his life. He told that he had done his work honestly and worked hard throughout whole life. He had passed his life decently respectfully and straight forward. He had saved small money from his income for the future after retiring. He had done his duty in every difficulty and pleased through as God kept him.
In simple words: George expresses his frustration over Tom's behavior, contrasting it with his own life of hard work, honesty, and saving for retirement, emphasizing his steadfastness through difficulties.

🎯 Exam Tip: Analyze direct quotes to understand a character's values and how they justify their actions or express grievances.

Question 9. I could not help ........a sovereign.
Context: George was very much upset on the strange doings of his younger brother Tom. He told the writer that Tom married a woman of his mother's age. After a few days she died and left him everything she had. Saying this George Ramsay was so angry with Tom's activity that he beat his hands on the table.
Explanation: George told the writer that Tom had married a very old lady. Few days after the marriage she died and Tom inherited all her property. Tom had become richer than George. At this the writer burst into laughter. He thought that George would never forgive him for this behaviour. But the writer had no grudge against Tom. He enjoyed rich dinners with Tom many times. Tom did not still leave his habit of borrowing money but it was never more than a sovereign.
In simple words: George was furious because his irresponsible brother Tom married an old woman who soon died, leaving him rich, a situation George found deeply unjust, even though the writer found it humorous.

🎯 Exam Tip: Examine how different characters react to the same event, as this often highlights their contrasting values and perspectives within the narrative.

Short Answer Type Questions

Answer the following questions in not more than 30 words each :

Question 1. Why was the writer asked to learn the fable about ‘The Ant and the Grasshopper'? (लेखक से 'The Ant and the Grasshopper कहानी याद करने को क्यों कहा गया ?) Or What lesson does one learn from the fable of 'The Ant and the Grasshopper'? ("The Ant and the Grasshopper' कहानी से हमें क्या शिक्षा मिलती है ?)
Answer: The fable ‘The Ant and the Grasshopper' teaches us a lesson that labour is rewarded and idleness is punished. So the writer was also asked to learn this fable. ('The Ant and the Grasshopper’कहानी हमें शिक्षा देती है कि परीक्षमी को अच्छा फल मिलता है, जबकि सुस्ती का फल बुरा होता है। इसीलिए लेखक को यह कहानी याद करने के लिए कहा गया था ।)
In simple words: The fable teaches that hard work is rewarded and idleness punished, prompting the writer to learn this moral lesson.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked about a lesson or moral, state it clearly and concisely, directly addressing the core teaching of the story.

Question 2. What announcement did Tom make one day and what did he do to fulfil his wishes ? (एक दिन टॉम ने क्या घोषणा की और उसने अपनी इच्छाओं को पूरा करने के लिए क्या किया ?)
Answer: One day Tom announced that he did not like work. He had decided to give up his work and family life. He wanted to pass a carefree life. (एक दिन टॉम ने घोषणा की कि उसे काम करना पसन्द नहीं है। उसने अपना कार्य तथा परिवार को छोड़ने का निश्चय कर लिया। वह एक स्वतन्त्र जीवन बिताना चाहता था।)
In simple words: Tom declared he disliked work, abandoned his job and family, and sought to live a completely carefree life.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the main character's pivotal decisions and their immediate impact or intentions, keeping answers brief and direct.

Question 3. what method or methods did Tom use to get money from George ? (टॉम, जॉर्ज से धन वसूल करने में क्या उपाय काम में लाता था ?) Or How did Tom blackmail his brother George Ramsay ? (टॉम अपने भाई जॉर्ज रामसे को किस प्रकार ब्लैकमेल करता था ?) Or What did Tom start doing when his money was spent? (जब टॉम का धन समाप्त हो जाता था तब वह क्या करने लगता था ?) Or How could Tom Ramsay manage to get money from George, his elder brother? (टॉम रामसे अपने बड़े भाई जॉर्ज से धन कैसे प्राप्त करता था ?)
Answer: Tom blackmailed his brother George. Sometimes he assured him that he would improve himself. Thus, he got money from George. (टॉम अपने भाई को ब्लैकमेल करता था। कभी-कभी वह उसे यकीन दिलाता था कि वह स्वयं को सुधारेगा। इस प्रकार वह जॉर्ज से धन प्राप्त करता था ।)
In simple words: Tom blackmailed George and sometimes promised self-improvement to extract money from his elder brother.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the specific manipulative tactics a character uses to achieve their goals, particularly in familial relationships, to demonstrate understanding of their complex motives.

Question 4. why did George Ramsay dislike his brother? (जॉर्ज रामसे अपने भाई को क्यों नहीं पसन्द करते थे ?) Or Why was George unhappy with his brother? (जॉर्ज अपने भाई से अप्रसन्न क्यों था?)
Answer: George Ramsay disliked his brother because he always blackmailed him and had no interest in the reputation of the family. (जॉर्ज रामसे अपने भाई को इसलिए पसन्द नहीं करते थे, क्योंकि वह सदा उन्हें ब्लैकमेल करता था और परिवार के सम्मान में उसकी कोई रुचि नहीं थी।)
In simple words: George disliked Tom because he constantly blackmailed him and showed no regard for the family's reputation.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the core reasons for character conflicts, emphasizing actions that directly undermine trust or shared values.

Question 5. What was the cause of George's worry in the chapter “The Ant and the Grasshopper? ("The Ant and the Grasshopper” नामक पाठ में जॉर्ज की चिन्ता का क्या कारण था?)
Answer: In the chapter ‘The Ant and the Grasshopper' the cause of George's worry was his younger brother Tom who had no interest in the reputation of the family. (‘The Ant and the Grasshopper' नामक पाठ में जॉर्ज की चिन्ता का कारण उसका छोटा भाई टॉम था जिसे परिवार के सम्मान में कोई रुचि नहीं थी ।)
In simple words: George was worried due to his younger brother Tom's irresponsible behavior and disregard for the family's honor.

🎯 Exam Tip: Directly identify the primary cause of a character's emotional state, linking it to another character's actions or specific story events.

Question 6. What wrong had Tom done which made George terribly upset? How did George settle this matter? (टॉम ने ऐसी क्या गड़बड़ की थी जिसमे जॉर्ज इतना परेशान था ? जॉर्ज ने इस मामले को कैसे सुलझायो ?)
Answer: Once Tom nearly went to prison. This upset George terribly. George settled this matter by giving 500 pounds. (एक बार टॉम लगभग जेल चला ही गया था। इस बात से जॉर्ज अत्यधिक परेशान था। उसने पाँच सौ पौंड देकर इस मामले को सुलझाया।)
In simple words: Tom almost went to prison, causing George immense distress, which he resolved by paying 500 pounds.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing a problem and its resolution, clearly state the issue and the direct action taken to solve it, including any costs involved.

Question 7. Why was George angry when he heard that Tom and Cronshaw had gone off together to Monte Carlo the moment they cashed the cheque ? (जब जॉर्ज ने यह सुना कि टॉम और क्रोनशा चेक भुनाते ही मॉण्ट काल में साथ गए हैं, तब वह नाराज क्यों हुआ ?)
Answer: Tom had cheated Cronshaw. So, he wanted to take the matter into the court. For the prestige of the family, George had to give 500 pounds to Cronshaw. But as soon as the cheque was cashed, they went together to a famous gambling den Monte Carlo. Thus Tom cheated George. So, George was very much angry. (टॉम ने क्रोनशा को धोखा दिया। इसलिए वह इस मामले को अदालत में ले जाना चाहता था। किन्तु परिवार के सम्मान के लिए. जॉर्ज को क्रोनशा को 500 पौंड देने पड़े । किन्तु चेक भुनाते ही वे एक प्रसिद्ध जुआघर मॉण्ट काल में चले गए। इस प्रकार टॉम ने जॉर्ज को ठगा। इसलिए जॉर्ज बहुत नाराज था ।)
In simple words: George was angry because he paid 500 pounds to prevent Tom from going to court for cheating Cronshaw, only for Tom to immediately go gambling in Monte Carlo, thus deceiving George again.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain complex motivations by detailing the sequence of events and how one character's deceit directly impacts another, particularly when trust is involved.

Question 8. Why did people like Tom Ramsay despite the fact that they knew how worthless he was? (यह जानते हुए भी कि टॉम कितना बेकार व्यक्ति है, लोग उसे क्यों पसन्द करते थे ?) Or The people knew that Tom Ramsay was a worthless fellow. Yet, they liked him. Why? (लोग जानते थे कि रामसे एक निकम्मा व्यक्ति है। फिर भी वे उसे पसन्द करते थे। क्यों ?)
Answer: Tom was handsome and smart. He was the most amusing companion. So, the people liked him even though he was a worthless fellow. (टॉम सुन्दर और चतुर था। वह सभी को पसन्द करने वाला साथी था। इसलिए लोग उसे पसन्द करते थे, यद्यपि वह बेकार व्यक्ति था ।)
In simple words: People liked Tom despite his worthlessness because he was handsome, smart, and an amusing companion, making his company enjoyable.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the contrast between a character's superficial qualities and their actual moral or work ethic to explain their social paradox.

Question 9. what did Tom Ramsay do for twenty years? (बीस वर्ष तक टॉम रामसे ने क्या किया ?)
Answer: Tom passed a very enjoyable life for twenty years. He raced, gambled, philandered with the prettiest girls, ate in the best restaurants and dressed well. (टॉम ने बीस वर्ष तक बहुत बढ़िया जीवन व्यतीत किया। उसने रेस में भाग लिया, जुआ खेला, सबसे सुन्दर लड़कियों के साथ मौज मस्ती की, सबसे अच्छे होटलों में खाना खाया और बढ़िया कपड़े पहने ।)
In simple words: For twenty years, Tom Ramsay led a life of pleasure, engaging in racing, gambling, womanizing, dining well, and dressing stylishly.

🎯 Exam Tip: When detailing a character's lifestyle, use strong verbs and descriptive phrases to paint a vivid picture of their activities.

Question 10. What was George like? Did he think well for his brother Tom ? (जॉर्ज किसके समान था ? क्या वह अपने भाई के लिए भलाई की बात सोचता था ?)
Answer: George was laborious and honest like the ant. Yes, he always thought well for his brother Tom. (जॉर्ज चींटी के समान मेहनती तथा ईमानदार था। वह अपने भाई टॉम के लिए सदा भलाई की बात सोचता था ।)
In simple words: George was hardworking and honest, akin to an ant, and consistently wished well for his brother Tom.

🎯 Exam Tip: Compare character traits to well-known archetypes (like the ant) to quickly convey their nature, and specify their attitudes towards other key characters.

Question 11. what news did George give to the writer about Tom? (जॉर्ज ने लेखक को टॉम के विषय में क्या सूचना दी ?)
Answer: George told the writer about the marriage of Tom with an old woman. He also told him that she died and left a lot of property for Tom. (जॉर्ज ने लेखक को एक बुढ़िया से टॉम की शादी के विषय में बताया। उसने यह भी बताया कि वह बुढ़िया मर गई और टॉम के लिए काफी सम्पत्ति छोड़ गई है ।)
In simple words: George informed the writer that Tom married an old woman who later died, leaving him a substantial inheritance.

🎯 Exam Tip: Extract key plot developments, especially those involving significant life changes or unexpected windfalls for characters, as they often drive the narrative.

Question 12. What was not fair in George Ramsay's views? (जॉर्ज रामसे के विचारों से क्या बात ठीक नहीं थी ?)
Answer: Tom at once became very rich without doing any work. It was not fair in George Ramsay's view. (टॉम बिना परिश्रम किए ही तुरन्त बहुत धनी हो गया। यह बात जॉर्ज के अनुसार ठीक नहीं थी ।)
In simple words: In George's view, it was unfair that Tom became rich instantly without any effort, contrasting with his own hard work.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on characters' perceptions of justice and fairness, as these insights reveal their moral compass and personal struggles.

Question 13. Why was George Ramsay unhappy while taking lunch alone in a restaurant? (जब एक दिन जॉर्ज रामसे अकेले होटल में भोजन कर रहे थे, तब वे दुःखी क्यों थे ?)
Answer: George Ramsay was unhappy while taking lunch alone in a restaurant because Tom had suddenly become far richer than he. To him it seemed unfair. (जॉर्ज रामसे जब होटल में भोजन कर रहे थे तब वे इसलिए दुःखी थे क्योंकि टॉम अचानक उनसे भी अधिक धनी हो गया। उन्हें यह अनुचित लगा ।)
In simple words: George was unhappy during lunch because his brother Tom had suddenly become much wealthier than him, which he perceived as unjust.

🎯 Exam Tip: Relate a character's emotional state directly to specific events or comparisons that provoke their feelings of injustice or discontent.

Question 14. Why did the writer burst into a shout of laughter when he looked at George's wrathful face ? (लेखक ने जब जॉर्ज का क्रोधित चेहरा देखा तब वह क्यों हँसा ?)
Answer: When the writer saw at George's wrathful face, he guessed that George was envious of the richness of his brother. He was reminded of the story of ‘The Ant and the Grasshopper'. So, he burst into laughter. (जब लेखक ने जॉर्ज के क्रोधित चेहरे को देखा तब उसने अनुमान लगा लिया कि जॉर्ज को अपने भाई के धनी होने से ईर्ष्या है 'The Ant and the Grasshopper'कहानी याद आ गई और वह हँस पड़ा)
In simple words: The writer laughed upon seeing George's angry face because he realized George was envious of Tom's newfound wealth, reminding him of the irony in 'The Ant and the Grasshopper' fable.

🎯 Exam Tip: Explain how a character's reaction (like laughter) stems from an ironic situation or a recognition of a larger theme within the story.

Question 15. What was Tom's life like by the end of the story, 'The Ant and the Grasshopper? ('The Ant and the Grasshopper'कहानी के अन्त की तरह टॉम का जीवन कैसा था ?)
Answer: The life of Tom was full of joys and sorrows but in the end of the story he got all the joys and pleasures of life. (टॉम का जीवन सुख और दुःखों से भरपूर रहा लेकिन कहानी के अन्त में उसका जीवन सभी प्रकार की खुशियों से भर गया ।)
In simple words: By the story's end, Tom's life, despite previous struggles, was filled with all forms of joy and pleasure, achieving ultimate happiness.

🎯 Exam Tip: Summarize a character's final situation, emphasizing how their journey concludes relative to the story's initial themes or expectations.

Question 16. Why did Cronshaw and Tom go to Monte Carlo ? (क्रोनशा और टॉम मॉण्ट कालों क्यों गये?)
Answer: Cronshaw and Tom went to Monte Carlo to play gamble and spent one year. happily there. (क्रोनशा और टॉम, मॉण्ट काल जुआ खेलने गए और वहाँ एक महीना मजे से बिताया ।)
In simple words: Cronshaw and Tom went to Monte Carlo to gamble and enjoy themselves, spending a happy month there.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the specific motives for characters' actions and destinations, especially when they involve leisure or entertainment.

Vocabulary

Choose the most appropriate word or phrase that best completes the sentence :

Question 1. I never saw anyone wear an expression of such deep ......... (a) darkness (b) sorrow (c) grief (d) gloom
Answer: (d) gloom
In simple words: The word 'gloom' perfectly describes a profound sadness or despair, fitting the context of deep unhappiness.

🎯 Exam Tip: For vocabulary questions, consider the nuances of each option and how well it fits the emotional context of the sentence.

Question 2. Tom had been a sole ......to his for twenty years. (a) test (b) trial (c) evidence (d) difficulty
Answer: (b) trial
In simple words: 'Trial' accurately describes a period of hardship or difficulty, making it the best fit for Tom's challenging twenty years.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose the vocabulary word that best expresses the sustained nature of a difficult experience over a long period.

Question 3. The money that was amusing to spend was the money you spent on ........ (a) necessities (b) amusements (c) luxuries (d) entertainments
Answer: (c) luxuries
In simple words: Money spent on 'luxuries' is typically considered amusing or enjoyable, as opposed to necessities.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between essential needs and non-essential pleasures when selecting the most appropriate term for spending habits.

Question 4. George was a serious man and insensible to such ........ (a) enticements (b) temptations (c) allurements (d) luxury
Answer: (a) enticements
In simple words: George's serious nature implies he was unaffected by 'enticements', or things designed to attract or tempt.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand how a character's core personality traits (e.g., seriousness) would logically affect their susceptibility to various external influences.

Question 5. And you can't deny that Tom has been an idle, worthless, dissolute and dishonourable ......... (a) person (b) scoundrel (c) rogue (d) rascal
Answer: (c) rogue
In simple words: 'Rogue' is the most fitting term to describe someone who is idle, worthless, dissolute, and dishonourable, indicating a morally unprincipled person.

🎯 Exam Tip: Select the word that encapsulates all the negative attributes listed, providing a comprehensive description of the character's moral standing.

Question 6. I could not ........... thinking of the fable by La Fontaine. (a) support (b) help (c) aid (d) assist
Answer: (b) help
In simple words: 'Could not help thinking' is a common idiom meaning to be unable to prevent oneself from thinking, making 'help' the correct choice.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize idiomatic expressions where the literal meaning of a word differs from its meaning within the phrase, choosing the option that completes the idiom.

Question 7. I suppose every family has a ......... sheep. (a) mad dog (b) white elephant (c) black sheep (d) shining car
Answer: (c) black sheep
In simple words: 'Black sheep' is an idiom referring to a disreputable or unconventional member of a family or group.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify common idioms or proverbial phrases and select the option that correctly completes them, understanding their metaphorical meaning.

Question 8. I condemn you to death. Justice demands it, and the ......... awards it. (a) lawyer (b) writer (C) court (d) policeman
Answer: (C) court
In simple words: 'Court' is the institution that awards punishment based on the demands of justice, especially in cases of condemnation.

🎯 Exam Tip: Consider the official body or authority responsible for making legal judgments and awarding sentences when filling in legal-themed sentences.

Question 9. I............. at once that Tom had been causing trouble again. (a) looked (b) thought (c) suspected (d) imagined
Answer: (c) suspected
In simple words: 'Suspected' implies a feeling or belief that something is likely to be true, often without concrete proof, which fits the context of inferring trouble.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose the verb that best conveys an immediate, intuitive understanding or inference about a recurring negative pattern of behavior.

Question 10. Tom, without a qualm, began to ............ him. (a) blackmail (b) advise (c) praise (d) help
Answer: (a) blackmail
In simple words: Given Tom's character and the phrase 'without a qualm' (meaning without hesitation or misgiving), 'blackmail' is the most fitting negative action he would undertake.

🎯 Exam Tip: Use contextual clues, such as character traits (e.g., 'without a qualm'), to determine the most probable action that completes the sentence logically.

Question 11. For money Tom ......... on his elder brother George. (a) depended (b) differed (c) denied (d) declared
Answer: (a) depended
In simple words: Tom 'depended' on George for money, highlighting his reliance on his elder brother for financial support.

🎯 Exam Tip: Select the verb that clearly indicates a relationship of reliance or financial dependence between the characters.

Question 12. Tom said that to serve in a bar or to drive a taxi was perfectly decent .. (a) entertainment (b) hobby (C) occupation (d) game
Answer: (C) occupation
In simple words: Serving in a bar or driving a taxi are both forms of 'occupation', meaning a job or profession.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the precise meaning of words related to work and leisure to choose the most accurate term for a given activity.

Question 13. Once Tom nearly went to prison, George was terribly ......... (a) happy (b) relaxed (c) upset (d) serious
Answer: (c) upset
In simple words: George was 'terribly upset' because his brother almost went to prison, reflecting his distress over the serious situation.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose the emotional descriptor that accurately reflects the severity of the situation and the character's likely reaction to it.

Question 14. Poor George ! I ......... with him. (a) loved (b) spoke (c) sympathised (d) played
Answer: (c) sympathised
In simple words: The phrase 'Poor George!' indicates that the speaker felt 'sympathy' for him, showing understanding and concern for his plight.

🎯 Exam Tip: Pay attention to interjections or exclamations in a sentence as they often reveal the speaker's underlying emotions and relationship to the subject.

Question 15. Tom was ......... and good looking. (a) handsome (b) young (c) nice (d) decent
Answer: (a) handsome
In simple words: 'Handsome' is the most direct and fitting adjective to pair with 'good looking' when describing a man's physical appearance.

🎯 Exam Tip: Select adjectives that complement each other and provide a coherent description of a character's physical attributes.

Question 16. In the fable, the ant stands for (a) hard work (b) kindness (c) enjoyment (d) idleness
Answer: (a) hard work
In simple words: In the fable of 'The Ant and the Grasshopper', the ant is a classic symbol of 'hard work' and diligence.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recall the traditional symbolism of characters in fables to correctly identify what they represent metaphorically.

Question 17. He was in his office every morning at nine thirty and ......... left it till six. (a) sometimes (b) always (c) never (d) yesterday
Answer: (c) never
In simple words: The context implies a disciplined routine, so 'never' leaving before six highlights the consistency of his work ethic.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose the adverb that best conveys the regularity or strict adherence to a schedule, contrasting with less strict alternatives.

Question 18. Every family has a ......... sheep. (a) brown (b) white (c) yellow (d) black
Answer: (d) black
In simple words: 'Black sheep' is the established idiom for a disreputable family member.

🎯 Exam Tip: When presented with idiomatic phrases, select the word that correctly completes the established idiom, rather than a literal interpretation.

Question 19. Tom Ramsay knew everyone and ......... knew Tom Ramsay. (a) no body (b) all (c) everyone (d) none
Answer: (c) everyone
In simple words: This phrase emphasizes Tom's widespread social connections, meaning 'everyone' knew him.

🎯 Exam Tip: Choose the quantifier that best reflects the extent of a character's social network or recognition within the story.