Class 12 English Flamingo Indigo( short questions)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

Indigo

(Louis Fischer)

Short question answers

Q1. Why is Rajkumar Shukla described as being ‘resolute’?

Ans: He had traveled all the way to Lucknow to speak with Gandhi from the Champaran district in the Himalayan foothills. Shukla traveled everywhere with Gandhi. Shukla went to the ashram outside of Ahmedabad with him. He never left Gandhi's side for weeks till Gandhi requested a meeting in Calcutta.

Q2. Why do you think the servants thought Gandhi to be another peasant?

Ans: Gandhi followed Shukla to Rajendra Prasad's residence. Shukla was considered a bad yeoman by the servants. Gandhi wore a basic dhoti as well. He was a peasant's buddy. Gandhi was therefore perceived by the servants as just another villager.

Q3. What did the peasants pay the British landlords as rent? What did the British now want instead and why? What would be the impact of synthetic indigo on the prices of natural indigo?

Ans: The rent that the peasants paid the British landlords was indigo. Germany had now created artificial indigo. Therefore, in exchange for being liberated from the 15 percent deal, the British landlords demanded payment. Because of the synthetic indigo.

Q4. Why did Gandhi agree to a settlement of 25 per cent refund to the farmers?

Ans: Gandhi did not place as much importance on the quantity of the refund as he did on the landlords' forced return of a portion of the money and, along with it, a portion of their status. Thus, he consented to pay the farmers a 25% reimbursement.

Q5.Why do you think Gaffdhi considered the Champaran episode to be a turning- point in his life?

Ans: The Champaran incident started out as an effort to lessen the hardships of numerous underprivileged peasants. Thousands of individuals voluntarily offered their support to him. Gandhi acknowledges that his actions were rather routine. He said that he could not be told what to do by the British in his own nation. As a result, he saw the Champaran incident as a life-changing event.

Q6. How did the development of synthetic indigo affect the English estate owners and the Indian tenants?

Ans: The English estate owners realized that growing indigo was becoming unprofitable.They demanded payment from the sharecroppers in exchange for being freed from the 15 percent contract. They got their renters to sign agreements to this effect, and they used deception and criminal extortion to get money.

Q7. Why do you think Gandhi was not permitted to draw water from Rajendra Prasad’s well at Patna?

Ans: Gandhi was perceived by Rajendra Prasad's attendants as just another peasant. They were unaware of him. Whether he was an untouchable or not was a mystery to them. They were worried that a few droplets from his pail could contaminate the entire well. He was therefore forbidden from using the well to get water.

Q8. Why did Gandhi decide to go first to Muzaffarpur before going to Champaran?

Ans: Gandhi desired to get more comprehensive details about the situation than Shukla could provide. Gandhi is briefed by Muzaffarpur lawyers, who often represented peasant groups in court.

Q9. Why did Gandhi chide the lawyers? What according to him was the real relief for the sharecroppers?

Ans: Gandhi chastised the attorneys for taking large fees from the underprivileged sharecroppers. He believed that the terrified and downtrodden peasants did not benefit much from bringing such issues before the courts. Gandhi said that being fearless was a relief for them.

Q10. Why did Gandhiji feel that taking the Champaran case to the court was useless?[Delhi 2014]

Ans: Gandhiji believed it was pointless to take the Champaran case to court. Since the peasants won't truly feel relieved until they gain courage. The villagers were utterly terrified.

Q11. What was the “conflict of duties” in which Gandhi was involved?

Ans: First and foremost, he did not want to set a terrible example by breaking the law. Second, he desired to perform the "humanitarian and national service" for which he had traveled. He acknowledged the lawful authorities but ignored the order to depart in order to listen to his conscience.

Class 12 English Flamingo The Rattrap (Word meaning)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Rattrap

(Selma Lagerlof)

Word meaning

 

Acquaintance: A person who is known slightly and casually.

Alarmed: To be frightened or shocked.

Amazement: A feeling of surprise or wonder.

Anvil: A heavy iron block with a flat top and a concave base.

Cherished: To love, protect, or care for deeply.

Plods: Walks heavily or slowly.

Trudging: Walking slowly or laboriously.

Carved off: To be separated or divided from a group or whole.

Summoned: To call or ask someone to come.

Rally: To gather together for a common purpose or cause.

Stagger: To walk unsteadily or to be shocked or upset.

Class 12 English Flamingo The Rattrap (Theme)

 

NCERT Solutions For 

(Selma Lagerlof)

Theme

The theme of "The Rattrap" in Class 12 is that most human beings are prone to fall into the trap of material benefit. However, every human being has an essential goodness that can be awakened through understanding and love. A human being has the tendency to redeem himself from dishonest ways. This story emphasizes the idea that despite one's circumstances or actions, there is always a possibility for change and redemption. It also highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and love in transforming a person's life and perspective.

Class 12 English Flamingo The Rattrap (Summary)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Rattrap

(Selma Lagerlof)

Summary

"The Rattrap" by Selma Lagerlöf narrates the life of a destitute man who makes a living selling rattraps. The story is inspired by a real-life rattrap seller who crafted his wares from materials acquired through begging and minor thefts.

The protagonist, a poor vagabond, sustains himself by selling rattraps and resorting to petty thefts, including pilfering thirty kronor from someone. Faced with unfortunate circumstances, he adopts various means such as rattrap sales, begging, and theft to survive, mirroring his cynical and bleak perspective on life, viewing the world as a vast rattrap.

The overarching theme of the narrative delves into the notion that many individuals succumb to the lure of material gains. Nevertheless, the story suggests that inherent goodness can be rekindled through understanding and love, showcasing the human capacity for redemption from dishonest paths.

In summary, "The Rattrap" is a poignant narrative that explores the challenges of a man existing on society's periphery, shedding light on his struggles and worldview. It serves as a poignant reminder of the innate goodness within people and the potential for redemption.

Class 12 English Flamingo The Rattrap( Long answers)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Rattrap

(Selma Lagerlof)

Long Answer type Questions

Q1. What is the theme of the story ‘The Rattrap’ ? How has this theme been developed?

Ans: The central theme of the narrative revolves around the susceptibility of individuals to be ensnared by the allure of material gains. However, the story suggests that inherent goodness can be stirred through understanding and love, paving the way for personal redemption from dishonest paths. The metaphor of the rattrap is employed to develop this theme.

In likening the world to a colossal rattrap, the peddler highlights how material temptations such as wealth, joy, shelter, food, and clothing act as baits, leading individuals into the metaphorical rattrap. This mirrors the way cheese and pork entice a rat into a physical rattrap. Once entangled, the world closes in on the person, resulting in the loss of everything.

The peddler, enticed by the thirty kronors from the old crofter, succumbs to the temptation and steals the money. Fearing capture, he navigates through the woods. It is the compassionate, sympathetic, and loving treatment provided by Edla Willmansson that enables him to break free from the metaphorical rattrap of the world. Her kindness serves as a catalyst for the peddler's redemption, emphasizing the transformative power of understanding and love.

Q2. Discuss peddler’s encounter with the old crofter. How does the peddler conduct himself? What light does this episode throw on human nature?

Ans: On a somber evening, the peddler arrived at a small gray cottage along the roadside. Seeking shelter for the night, he knocked on the door. The owner, an elderly man devoid of a spouse or children, graciously welcomed him. The old man, finding solace in the company, shared hot porridge for supper and provided tobacco for the peddler's pipe. The two engaged in a card game until bedtime.

During their interaction, the host recounted his prosperous days working on land at Ramsjo Ironworks, highlighting how his current sustenance relied on the milk from his cow, which he sold at the creamery daily. Displaying the thirty kronor notes he received as payment that month, he hung the leather pouch on a nail in the window frame. The following morning, as the crofter tended to his cow, the peddler departed briefly. Upon his return half an hour later, he broke the window pane, retrieved the money from the leather pouch, and discreetly hung it back on the nail.

This episode underscores the human inclination for companionship and social bonding in moments of loneliness. Additionally, it emphasizes that even the most philosophically inclined individuals can succumb to temptation, as demonstrated by the peddler, who, despite labeling the world a rattrap, yielded to the lure of thirty kronor.

Q3. Bring out the contrast in the ironmaster’s attitude and behaviour towards the stranger before and after he realises his mistake.

Ans: The ironmaster is deeply moved to witness his old regimental comrade in a pitiable state and regrets his decision to resign from the regiment. Determined to rectify this, he insists that his old comrade accompany him home. Perceiving the stranger's reluctance as possibly stemming from embarrassment due to his shabby attire, the ironmaster assures him that his home is not too grand for him to be welcomed. He extends an invitation for the stranger to join him and his daughter for Christmas, persisting even after the stranger declines three times. In a final attempt, the ironmaster sends his daughter, clad in a large fur coat, to convince the stranger.

However, his disposition takes a sharp turn when he sees the well-groomed stranger just before breakfast on Christmas Eve and realizes his mistake. Expressing displeasure with a furrowed brow, he demands an explanation from the man. Despite the peddler's defense that he never claimed to be someone else, the ironmaster deems him dishonest and threatens to involve the sheriff. Softening a bit after considering the metaphor of the world as a rattrap, he instructs the peddler to leave immediately.

Q4. Write the character sketch of  Edla on reading the story ‘The Raitrap’ ?

Ans: Miss Edla Willmansson, the eldest daughter of the Ramsjo Ironworks owner, may not possess conventional beauty, but her demeanor is characterized by modesty and shyness. She dutifully obeys her father's requests, occasionally visiting the forge. Demonstrating a remarkable power of observation and swift judgment, she deduces from the stranger's apprehensive expressions that he could be a thief or a fugitive. Employing her persuasive skills, she successfully convinces the stranger to accompany her home, leveraging her compassionate gaze, friendly manner, and polite discourse.

Observing that nothing about the man suggests a past as an educated individual, she upholds the Christmas spirit and intervenes on the stranger's behalf. Pleading passionately and arguing that they should not turn away someone they personally invited for Christmas cheer, she seeks her father's understanding.

Her disappointment upon discovering the peddler's true nature reflects her sensitivity. The captain's gift brings her joy, and it is her noble actions that contribute to the redemption of a thief. In essence, Miss Edla Willmansson emerges as an intelligent, affectionate, and kind young woman.

Class 12 English Flamingo The Rattrap (short answer)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Rattrap

(Selma Lagerlof)

Short Answer type Questions

Q1. From where did the peddler get the idea of the world being a rattrap?

Ans: The peddler pondered his rattraps when a sudden realization dawned on him: the entire world resembled a colossal rattrap, designed to lure people with various temptations. Much like the rattrap enticed with cheese and pork, the world presented riches, joys, shelter, food, warmth, and clothing. However, once someone succumbed to the allure and reached for the bait, the trap closed in, bringing an abrupt end to everything.

Q2. Why did crofter show the thirty kronor to the peddler?

Ans: The farmer had informed the peddler that he had earned thirty kronor by selling his cow's milk to the creamery. The peddler appeared skeptical, prompting the farmer to demonstrate the proof of his claim by displaying the thirty kronor to the peddler.

Q3. What made the peddler think that he had indeed fallen into a rattrap?

Ans: The peddler realized that he must not walk on the public highway with the stolen money in his pocket. He went into the woods. He peddler opted for the woods. As he continued through the seemingly endless forest, the realization dawned on him that he had unwittingly fallen into a trap – ensnared by the lure, he had allowed himself to be deceived and captured.

Q4. Why did the ironmaster speak kindly to the peddler and invite him home?

Ans: The ironmaster walked closely up to the peddler. In the dim reflection from the furnace, he mistook the man as his old regimental comrade, Captain Von Stahle. The ironmaster warmly addressed the stranger, extending a kind invitation to accompany him home.

Q5. Why did the peddler decline the invitation?

Ans: The peddler knew that the ironmaster had mistaken him for his old regimental comrade. Secondly, he had stolen thirty kronor. Going to the ironmaster’s residence would be risky. He knew very well that he could not hide his identity for long.So, he declined the invitation.

Q6. What made the peddler accept Edla Willmansson’s invitation?

Ans: Miss Edla Willmansson regarded the peddler with genuine compassion, perceiving his fear. Reassuring him, she guaranteed his freedom to depart as easily as he arrived. Inviting him to stay for Christmas Eve, she conveyed her request with a friendly manner, instilling confidence in the peddler and prompting him to accept her gracious invitation.

Q7. When did the ironmaster realise his mistake?

Ans: Next morning, the stranger was cleaned and well-dressed. The valet had bathed him, cut his hair and shaved him. He was led to the dining room for breakfast. Guided to the breakfast table, he was now visible in the full light of day. In this clarity, the ironmaster couldn't mistake him for an old acquaintance any longer. It was at this point that the ironmaster recognized his error.

Q8. Why did Edla still entertain the peddler even after she knew the truth about him?

Ans: Edla believed it was not right to expel a person they had invited into their home, especially after promising him Christmas warmth. Understanding the hardships of the peddler's life, she desired to offer him a day of tranquility in her house. Therefore, even upon learning the truth about him, she continued to extend hospitality to the peddler.

Q9. Why was Edla happy to see the gift left by the peddler?

Ans: Upon opening the gift package, Edla immediately discovered its contents: a small rattrap accompanied by three crumpled ten kronor notes and a letter specifically addressed to her. The peddler intended to reciprocate the kindness Edla had shown him throughout the day. He wished to prevent her from facing embarrassment during the Christmas season due to the actions of a thief.

Q10.Why did the peddler sign himself as Captain von Stahle?

Ans: The ironmaster had invited the peddler to his house mistaking him for Captain von Stahle. He was welcomed there and looked after as captain. Despite the revelation of the peddler's true identity, he continued to be welcomed and treated as the captain The peddler got a chance to redeem himself from dishonest ways by acting as an honourable Captain.

Q11. What made the peddler finally change his ways?

Ans: Edla Willmansson displayed kindness and friendliness towards the peddler, treating him with warmth and compassion. She intervened on his behalf when her father considered dismissing him. Even after learning the truth about him, she continued to extend hospitality. Edla went on to offer the peddler a suit as a Christmas present and invited him to spend the following Christmas with them. Her love and understanding awakened the innate goodness in the peddler, ultimately leading to a positive transformation in his ways.

Class 12 English Flamingo Deep Water (Theme )

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

Deep Water

(William Douglas)

Theme

The theme of "Deep Water" by William Douglas in Class 12 English (Flamingo) revolves around the profound impact of overcoming deep-seated fears. Douglas recounts childhood traumas, specifically incidents involving water, leading to a persistent fear. The narrative highlights the author's relentless determination to conquer this fear through consistent effort. The theme underscores the transformative power of confronting and triumphing over one's fears, offering a lesson in resilience, courage, and the indomitable human spirit. Through Douglas's personal journey, the narrative encourages readers to confront their fears, illustrating the potential for personal growth and empowerment that arises from such challenges.

Class 12 English Flamingo Deep Water (Summary)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

Deep Water

(William Douglas)

Summary

The summary of "Deep Water" offers insight into the chapter's essence, an excerpt from William Douglas's book 'Men and Mountains.' In this narrative, the author shares his journey of conquering a profound fear of water deeply embedded within him. This fear originates from two harrowing incidents. The first occurs when he is merely four years old, knocked down by a wave. Similarly, the second incident transpires at the age of 11 when a bully throws him into the deep end of a pool, nearly drowning him. These frightening experiences instill a deep-seated fear of water in the author.

Despite the daunting challenges, the author diligently works to overcome this fear. The summary delves into the measures he takes to conquer his fear, highlighting the relentless effort he invests in the process. Ultimately, he triumphs over this fear, imparting a valuable lesson in determination and willpower to readers.

Class 12 English Flamingo Deep Water ( Long Answers)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

Deep Water

(William Douglas)

Long Answer type Questions

Q1. “There was terror in my heart at the overpowering force of the waves.” When did Douglas start fearing water? Which experience had further strengthened its hold on his mind and personality’?

Ans. The ocean waves that knocked down young Douglas and engulfed him on the California beach instilled a deep fear in him when he was merely three or four years old. Clinging desperately to his father, he found himself submerged underwater, breathless and terrified. Although his father laughed, there was an underlying terror in his heart due to the overwhelming force of the waves.

When introduced to the Y.M.C.A. swimming pool, these unpleasant memories resurfaced, reigniting his childhood fears. Despite gaining some confidence, a misadventure occurred when an older boy tossed him into the nine-feet-deep end of the pool. Struggling to rise to the surface and reach the side, he failed twice, facing the imminent threat of drowning until timely rescue. This water-related terror left a lasting impact on his mind and became a significant hindrance to his overall personality.

 

Q2. Give an account of the fears and emotions of Douglas as he made efforts to save himself from being drowned in the Y.M.C.A. swimming pool.

Ans. Douglas experienced intense fear as he descended into the water. His active mind quickly devised a plan to prevent drowning, relying on the principle of water buoyancy. Recognizing that water has buoyant properties, he determined to execute a substantial jump as his feet touched the pool's bottom. The goal was to ascend swiftly like a cork, lie flat on the surface, and paddle towards the pool's edge.

As he approached the pool's bottom, his lungs were on the verge of bursting. Summoning all his strength, he executed a powerful jump, gradually ascending. However, all he could see was murky, yellow-colored water, inducing panic and a sense of suffocation. Attempting to shout, he inadvertently swallowed more water, choking and descending once again. His legs, stiff and unresponsive, refused to obey him, and he found himself breathless.

His lungs ached, head throbbed, and dizziness set in. Descending into the dark water once more, an overwhelming terror gripped Douglas, rendering him paralyzed underwater. Despite his reasoning urging him to jump again, his arms and legs remained immobile. Although his eyes and nose emerged from the water, his mouth did not, leading to another intake of water and a third descent. At this point, a profound darkness enveloped his consciousness, as he encountered the terror associated with the fear of death and the visceral sensation of dying.

 

Q3. What impression do you form of William O. Douglas on the basis of reading Deep Water?’

OR

Write the character sketch of  William O. Douglas ?

Ans. William Douglas was remarkably truthful and courageous. His detailed narrative, recounting fears and emotions while grappling with the threat of drowning in deep water, reflects a rare level of candor and bravery. Acknowledging one's faults and shortcomings demands courage, honesty, and strong willpower, qualities that Douglas evidently possesses.

His resolute efforts to overcome the fear of water underscore his unwavering determination, resolution, and robust willpower. With an analytical mind that diagnoses the issue and propels him to seek a solution, Douglas, though frightened of deep water, manages to retain his composure.

In his heroic struggle against fear, terror, and panic, Douglas ascends to a stature of heroism, becoming an exemplar and a living image of bravery and persistent endeavor. He epitomizes the refusal to surrender or yield, showcasing an indefatigable zeal that serves as a wellspring of inspiration for all, particularly the youth.

In essence, William Douglas impresses us as a person of frankness, truthfulness, honesty, and unyielding determination.

Q4. The story “Deep Water” has made you realize that with determination and perseverance one can accomplish the impossible. Write a paragraph in about 100 words on how a positive attitude and courage will aid you to achieve success in life. [Delhi 2014]

Ans. The role of willpower holds immense significance in the life of an individual. Success is characterized by unwavering determination and persistent hard work. Those who harbor a passionate desire to achieve specific goals tend to realize them within the designated timeframe. Various paths lead to these coveted objectives, and the willpower of an individual provides them with strength, energy, vigor, and enthusiasm. It essentially shapes the destiny of a person.

Absolute determination possesses a remarkable ability to confront and surmount obstacles. No impediment can triumph over the force of willpower; it stands as invincible and insurmountable. A person devoid of enthusiasm, willpower, and determination is akin to a ship without a helm, drifting on the water's surface according to the wind.

In this world, every problem has a solution, a fact demonstrated by the accomplishments of great personalities who have proven that sheer determination can overcome any obstacle. Humans have the capability to achieve the seemingly impossible in this era of science and technology. Rejecting fatalism and placing belief in karma, individuals can accomplish any task if they possess a strong desire. Success hinges on an unyielding will and steadfast determination, and for those who embody these qualities, disappointment finds no place in their lives. They invest tremendous efforts to attain greatness.

Class 12 English Flamingo Deep Water ( word meaning)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

Deep Water

(William Douglas)

Word Meaning

 

1.    Perpetual: Continuing indefinitely; everlasting.

2.    Hallmarks: Distinctive features or characteristics.

3.    Exploitation: The action or fact of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work.

4.    Indefatigable: Persisting tirelessly.

5.    Odyssey: A long and eventful or adventurous journey or experience.

6.    Buoyancy: The ability or tendency of something to float in water or other fluids.

7.    Puny: Small and weak.

8.    Lingered: Stayed in a place longer than necessary, typically because of reluctance to leave.

9.    Instinct: An innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior in animals in response to certain stimuli.

10. Resilience: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.

11. Stature: The level of respect or esteem accorded to someone.

12. Adversity: Difficulties or misfortune.

13. Incapacitated: Unable to act or respond.

14. Palpable: Perceptible or noticeable.

15. Nebulous: Unclear, vague, or hazy.

16. Tenacity: The quality of being determined and persistent.

17. Invincible: Incapable of being defeated or overcome.

18. Composure: Calmness, especially in challenging situations.

19. Enveloped: Covered or surrounded completely.

20. Relinquish: Voluntarily cease to keep or claim; let go.

21. Precarious: Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall.

22. Abyss: A deep or seemingly bottomless chasm.

23. Abyssal: Relating to the depths of the ocean.

24. Ominous: Giving the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen.

25. Intrepid: Fearless, adventurous.