AHSEC Class 12 Alternative English: A Cup of Tea Questions Answers [H.S 2nd Year Alternative English Chapter 1 Solution]

A Cup of Tea by Katherine Mansfield is a beautiful Story of AHSEC Class 12 Alternative English (Harmony: An Anthology of Prose and Poetry) Chapter 1. Here you will find Brief Summary of the Story and a detailed Question Answer of A Cup of Tea Question Answer with additional And Important Questions for Upcoming 2024 Examination. 

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About Author - Katherine Mansfield

Katherine Mansfield (1888-1923), a British author, was born in New Zealand. She is regarded as one of the masters of the short story. Her first volume of short stories 'In a German pension' (1911), was not so remarkable and achieved little writer. Mansfield's stories, which reveal the influence of Chekhov, are simple in form, and evocative in substance. with delicate plainness they present elusive moments of decision, defeat and small triumph.

A Cup of Tea : Summary

First published in 1922, Katherine Mansfield's short story 'A Cup Tea' revolves around Rosemary, a snobbish upper-class woman, who is described as 'extremely modern' and 'exquisitely well dressed'; however, the narrator says that she is not the kind to be considered 'beautiful'. Though Rosemary not exactly beautiful, she tries to compensate for this by living a life of extreme comfort, style and fashion. She has a taste for expensive antique products and often shops in the exclusive stores located on Curzon Street in London.

One winter while leaving an antique shop, Rosemary unexpectedly meets a poor young girl named Miss Smith who is starving and begging for the price of a cup of tea to keep her warm. Rosemary is struck by the chance encounter with the poor girl, and it appears to her as something out of a Dostoevsky novel. She romanticises Miss Smith's suffering as she believes that nobody could be so poor that could not even afford a cup of tea. She takes her home with the intention of offering Miss Smith a better life and proving that miracles can also happen in real life. However, Rosemary's actions are motivated more by a desire to show off her generosity and gain recognition from her upper-class friends, rather than genuine kindness.

At home, Rosemary offers Miss Smith tea and brandy. However, her husband Philip disapproves of her decision to keep a stranger in their home. So, to get rid of Miss Smith, he provokes Rosemary's jealousy by admiring the beauty of the poor girl. This exposes the artificial behaviour and hypocrisy of Rosemary, and her romantic dreams come into conflict with reality. She immediately chases the girl away by offering her a present of money. She then tries to attract her husband's attention by asking him 'Am pretty?' and expressing her desire to buy a little enamel box from the antique shop on Curzon Street.

The story is narrated in the third person by an unnamed narrator. It throws light on the behaviour of privileged individuals who try to appear generous in order to receive gratitude, admiration and respect from those whom they perceive as inferior to them in society. The character of Rosemary Fell serves as a vehicle for exploring important themes, including class consciousness, the status of women, consumerism, and excessive materialism.

AHSEC H.S 2nd Year Alternative English, Harmony: An Anthology of Prose and Poetry

CHAPTER: 1 - A CUP OF TEA 

Complete Notes for 2024 Exam

COMPREHENSION

A. State whether these sentences are True or False.

1. Miss Smith was a very rich girl.

Ans: False. Miss Smith was not described as a very rich girl.

2. Rosemary was a very compassionate woman.

Ans:True. Rosemary was portrayed as a compassionate woman.

3. Philip did not want Miss Smith to dine with them.

Ans: True. Philip did not want Miss Smith to dine with them.

4. Rosemary had been married for a couple of years.

Ans: True.

B. Answer these questions in one or two words.

1. Which Russian author influenced Katherine Mansfield?

Ans:  Chekhov.

2. In which street was Rosemary shopping when 

she met Miss Smith?

Ans: Curzon Street.

3. How many pounds did Rosemary give to Miss Smith? 

Ans: 3 pounds.

4. What is the cost of the enamel box that Rosemary wanted to buy?

Ans: Twenty eight guineas.

5. What is the name of the main character of 'A Cup of Tea'? 

Ans: Rosemary is the main character of ‘A Cup of Tea’.

 

C. Answer these questions in a few words each.

1. What are the names of the two women characters in the story A Cup of Tea'?

Ans: The two women characters in the story "A Cup of Tea" are Rosemary and Miss Smith.

2. What kind of a relationship do Rosemary and Philip share in 'A Cup of Tea'?

Ans: Rosemary and Philip have a husband and wife relationship in "A Cup of Tea."

3. How does Philip react towards Miss Smith?

Ans:  Philip reacts with disapproval towards Miss Smith.

4. Who was Miss Smith? Why did Rosemary send her back?

Ans: Miss Smith was a poor girl whom Rosemary encountered on the street. Rosemary sent her back because she realized the girl's presence was disrupting their comfortable lifestyle.

5. Why did Philip disapprove of Rosemary's decision to keep Miss Smith with them?

Ans: Philip disapproved of Rosemary's decision to keep Miss Smith because he believed it would disrupt their social status and bring unwanted attention to their lives.

D. Answer these questions briefly in your own words.

1. Write a brief character sketch of Rosemary Fell.

Ans: Rosemary Fell is a wealthy and privileged woman who enjoys a comfortable lifestyle. She is described as attractive and fashionable, with a taste for luxury. However, she is also portrayed as impulsive and easily influenced by her emotions.

2. Describe Rosemary's encounter with Miss Smith. 

Ans: Rosemary's encounter with Miss Smith occurs when she sees the young girl begging on the street. Overwhelmed by a sudden impulse of compassion, Rosemary invites Miss Smith to join her for tea. This unexpected act of kindness leads to a series of events that disrupt Rosemary's life.

3. How does Katherine Mansfield explore the theme of 'class difference' in 'A Cup of Tea'? 

Ans: Katherine Mansfield explores the theme of class difference in "A Cup of Tea" by highlighting the stark contrast between Rosemary's affluent lifestyle and Miss Smith's poverty. The encounter between the two women exposes the vast divide between their social statuses, showcasing the insensitivity and ignorance of the upper class towards the struggles faced by the lower class.

4. Why did Rosemary take Miss Smith home?

Ans:  Rosemary takes Miss Smith home initially out of a spontaneous desire to help someone in need. However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that Rosemary's motivations are more complex. She becomes intrigued by Miss Smith's presence and sees her as a way to fulfill her own desire for excitement and a break from her mundane existence.

E. Answer these questions in detail.

1. Examine in detail the various themes explored by Katherine Mansfield in her story 'A Cup of Tea'.

Ans: In "A Cup of Tea," Katherine Mansfield explores several themes that shed light on the complexities of human nature and societal dynamics. 

One prominent theme is the stark contrast between social classes. Mansfield delves into the divide between the privileged upper class, represented by Rosemary Fell, and the lower class, symbolized by Miss Smith. Through this exploration, Mansfield highlights the indifference and lack of understanding that often exist between people of different social statuses. The story exposes the superficiality and ignorance of the upper class towards the struggles faced by the lower class.

Another theme is the nature of compassion and its limitations. Mansfield examines the complex motivations behind acts of kindness. Rosemary's initial impulse to help Miss Smith is driven by a genuine desire to alleviate suffering, but it is later revealed that her actions are also influenced by a need for excitement and self-gratification. Mansfield raises questions about the authenticity and boundaries of compassion, exploring whether it can truly bridge the gap between different social classes.

The theme of identity and self-perception is also prevalent in the story. Mansfield portrays Rosemary as a character who is defined by her social status and the material possessions that accompany it. However, her encounter with Miss Smith disrupts her carefully constructed identity and forces her to question her own values and priorities. Mansfield delves into the internal struggle faced by Rosemary as she grapples with her own sense of self-worth and the desire to be seen as a compassionate and generous person.

2. Comment on the significance of the title of the story 'A Cup of Tea

Ans: The title "A Cup of Tea" carries symbolic significance throughout the story. On a surface level, it represents the initial act of kindness when Rosemary invites Miss Smith to join her for tea. The cup of tea becomes a catalyst for their encounter and sets the events of the story in motion.

However, the title also alludes to the idea of a fleeting moment of comfort and luxury. A cup of tea is often associated with a small indulgence, a temporary respite from the realities of life. In the story, Mansfield uses this symbolism to highlight the contrast between the privileged world of Rosemary, where a cup of tea is a commonplace luxury, and the harsh reality faced by Miss Smith, where even the simplest pleasures are scarce.

Furthermore, the title can be interpreted metaphorically, representing the desire for human connection and the search for warmth and empathy. It suggests that acts of kindness, like sharing a cup of tea, have the potential to bridge the gap between individuals from different walks of life.

Overall, the title "A Cup of Tea" encapsulates the central themes of class difference, compassion, and the fleeting nature of comfort, inviting readers to reflect on the deeper implications of a seemingly ordinary act.

Additional Questions Answers 

Short Types Question Answers

1. Q: What is Rosemary Fell's social status?l

Ans: Rosemary Fell is a wealthy woman from the upper class.

2. Q: How does Miss Smith react when Rosemary invites her for tea?

Ans: Miss Smith initially hesitates but eventually accepts Rosemary's invitation.

3. Q: What does Rosemary buy for Miss Smith during their shopping trip?

Ans: Rosemary purchases a pair of boots for Miss Smith.

4. Q: How does Rosemary feel after encountering Miss Smith?

Ans: Rosemary experiences a mix of curiosity, compassion, and a desire to help Miss Smith.

5. Q: Why does Rosemary want to help Miss Smith?

Ans: Rosemary's initial motive is to alleviate Miss Smith's suffering and show compassion.

6. Q: How does Philip feel about Rosemary's decision to take Miss Smith home?

Ans: Philip disapproves of Rosemary's decision, as he believes it disrupts their routine and introduces an unwelcome presence into their lives.

7. Q: What is the significance of the enamel box in the story?

Ans: The enamel box symbolizes luxury and serves as an object of desire for Rosemary.

8. Q: How does Rosemary's encounter with Miss Smith challenge her self-perception?

Ans: Rosemary's encounter with Miss Smith forces her to question her values, priorities, and the authenticity of her acts of kindness.

AHSEC Class 12 Alternative English A Cup of Tea Important Questions Answers

9. Q: What does the story suggest about the limitations of compassion?

Ans: The story implies that acts of compassion can be driven by complex motivations and may not always bridge the gap between different social classes.

10. Q: How does Katherine Mansfield portray the divide between social classes in the story?

Ans: Mansfield highlights the indifference and lack of understanding that often exist between people of different social statuses, emphasizing the superficiality of the upper class towards the struggles faced by the lower class.

11. Q: What is the significance of the title "A Cup of Tea" in the story?

Ans: The title "A Cup of Tea" symbolizes a seemingly simple act of hospitality and kindness, which becomes a catalyst for deeper introspection and challenges the characters' perceptions of themselves and their social roles.

12. Q: How does Miss Smith's appearance and demeanor differ from the upper-class characters in the story?

Ans: Miss Smith is described as shabbily dressed and appears downtrodden. Her demeanor is timid and unassuming, in contrast to the confident and polished behavior of the upper-class characters.

Class 12 Alternative English Chapter 1 - A Cup of Tea Question Answer

13. Q: What is the role of Philip in the story, and how does he contribute to the conflicts that arise?

Ans: Philip is Rosemary's husband, and his disapproval of Rosemary's decision to help Miss Smith adds tension and conflict to the story. He represents the voice of practicality and social conformity, highlighting the clash between compassion and societal expectations.

14. Q: How does Rosemary's perception of Miss Smith change throughout the story?

 

Ans: Initially, Rosemary sees Miss Smith as an object of pity and feels a desire to help her. However, as the story progresses, Rosemary starts to question her own motivations and realizes her own superficiality in attempting to "rescue" Miss Smith.

15. Q: What is the role of the boots in the story, and how do they symbolize the divide between the characters?

Ans: The boots that Rosemary buys for Miss Smith represent a material offering of help and connection. They also symbolize the stark difference in social status between Rosemary and Miss Smith, highlighting the divide between the wealthy and the impoverished.

16. Q: How does the story explore the concept of privilege?

Ans: The story delves into the idea of privilege by showcasing how the upper class can sometimes use their resources and acts of charity as a means to ease their own guilt or reinforce their privileged positions, rather than genuinely understanding and addressing the struggles of the less fortunate.

17. Q: Does Rosemary's act of taking Miss Smith home truly benefit Miss Smith, or is it primarily driven by Rosemary's own desires?

Ans: The story leaves this question open to interpretation. While Rosemary initially intends to help Miss Smith, her motivations become muddled, raising doubts about the authenticity of her actions and whether they truly benefit Miss Smith or serve her own needs.

Long Answer Type Questions Answers 

1. Q: Examine in detail the various themes explored by Katherine Mansfield in her story 'A Cup of Tea'.

Ans: "A Cup of Tea" explores several themes throughout the story. One prominent theme is the concept of social class and its impact on human relationships. Mansfield highlights the stark divide between the upper class, represented by characters like Rosemary Fell and her husband Philip, and the lower class, symbolized by Miss Smith. The story delves into the complexities of compassion, empathy, and the obligations that arise from privilege. Mansfield also explores the theme of appearance versus reality, as Rosemary's initial act of kindness towards Miss Smith is driven by her desire to feel virtuous and superior. However, as the story progresses, Rosemary begins to question her own motives and realizes the shallowness of her intentions. Additionally, the theme of self-discovery and self-awareness is evident as Rosemary undergoes a journey of introspection, challenging her own assumptions and perceptions about herself and the world around her.

Class 12 Alternative English Chapter 1 A Cup of Tea Question Answer

2. Q: Comment on the significance of the title of the story 'A Cup of Tea'.

Ans: The title "A Cup of Tea" holds significant symbolism within the story. On the surface, it represents a simple act of hospitality and kindness. However, as the narrative unfolds, the title takes on a deeper meaning. The cup of tea becomes a metaphorical representation of the social and emotional barriers that exist between people of different classes. It signifies the bridging of these barriers and the crossing of boundaries, as Rosemary invites Miss Smith into her privileged world. The title also highlights the contrast between the materialistic desires and self-centeredness of the upper class, as seen in Rosemary's initial impulse to buy herself a luxurious item instead of helping Miss Smith. Ultimately, the title encapsulates the larger themes of the story, including compassion, self-reflection, and the complexities of human relationships.

3. Q: Describe the character development of Rosemary Fell throughout the story 'A Cup of Tea'.

Ans: Rosemary Fell undergoes significant character development throughout the story. Initially, she is portrayed as a wealthy and self-absorbed woman who is detached from the struggles of the lower class. However, her encounter with Miss Smith sparks a transformative journey for her. As the story progresses, Rosemary begins to question her own values and priorities. She experiences a moral dilemma when she decides to bring Miss Smith home, realizing that her initial act of charity was driven by superficial motives. Rosemary's character evolves as she confronts her own privilege and learns to empathize with the hardships of others. By the end of the story, she demonstrates growth and introspection, showing a greater understanding of compassion and genuine concern for others.

4. Q: Discuss the significance of the character of Miss Smith in 'A Cup of Tea'.

Ans: Miss Smith, despite being a relatively minor character, holds significant symbolic value in the story. She represents the lower class and serves as a catalyst for Rosemary's self-reflection and personal growth. Miss Smith's appearance and demeanor evoke pity and curiosity in Rosemary, prompting her to offer assistance. Through Miss Smith's character, Mansfield sheds light on the harsh realities faced by the working class, their struggles, and their invisibility in society. Miss Smith's polite refusal of Rosemary's assistance, despite her dire circumstances, challenges the assumptions and biases of the upper class. Her presence in the story acts as a reminder of the stark class differences that exist and the importance of empathy and understanding.

5. Q: How does Mansfield use symbolism to convey deeper meanings in 'A Cup of Tea'?

Ans: Katherine Mansfield effectively utilizes symbolism to convey deeper meanings in 'A Cup of Tea'. One significant symbol is the enamel box that Rosemary desires to buy. The box represents materialism and the superficial desires of the upper class. Rosemary's initial obsession with possessing the box reflects her shallowness and her focus on material possessions. However, the box also becomes a symbol of Rosemary's transformation as she chooses to give it up to help Miss Smith, signifying her shift in priorities and the growth of her compassion. Another symbol is the cup of tea, representing hospitality, connection, and the breaking of barriers. It serves as a metaphor for the class divide and Rosemary's attempt to bridge that gap by inviting Miss Smith into her home. These symbols deepen the thematic exploration and add layers of meaning to the story.

6. Q: Analyze the role of Philip in 'A Cup of Tea' and his influence on Rosemary's decisions.

Ans: Philip plays a significant role in the story as Rosemary's husband and acts as a contrast to her character. He is depicted as practical, sensible, and concerned about social conventions. Philip disapproves of Rosemary's decision to bring Miss Smith home, primarily due to his reservations about the class difference. His disapproval challenges Rosemary's initial desire to help Miss Smith purely out of compassion. Philip's influence on Rosemary is evident in her internal struggle to balance her own desires with societal expectations. While Philip's disapproval creates tension between them, it also acts as a catalyst for Rosemary's introspection and personal growth. Ultimately, Philip serves as a foil to Rosemary, highlighting the conflict between societal norms and individual compassion.

7. Q: Discuss the narrative structure used by Katherine Mansfield in 'A Cup of Tea'.

Ans: 'A Cup of Tea' employs a traditional linear narrative structure. The story unfolds chronologically, beginning with Rosemary's encounter with Miss Smith while shopping and progressing through the events that follow. Mansfield maintains a consistent narrative perspective, primarily focusing on Rosemary's thoughts, emotions, and experiences. The narrative structure allows for a clear progression of events and the development of characters. Mansfield also incorporates elements of introspection and reflection, providing insights into Rosemary's inner world. The story's structure effectively captures the transformation and growth of Rosemary's character and highlights the central themes of class difference, compassion, and personal values.

8. Q: Explore the theme of privilege in 'A Cup of Tea' and its impact on the characters.

Ans: Privilege is a prominent theme in 'A Cup of Tea' and significantly impacts the characters' perspectives and actions. Rosemary's privileged background is evident from the beginning, as she is portrayed as a wealthy woman with leisure time and material possessions. Her privilege initially blinds her to the struggles faced by the lower class. However, her encounter with Miss Smith exposes her to a different reality. Through Rosemary's journey, Mansfield explores the consequences of privilege and the need for empathy and understanding. Rosemary's decision to bring Miss Smith home represents a shift in her perception of privilege and a recognition of her own responsibility to help others. The theme of privilege also highlights the class divide and the challenges of bridging that gap. Overall, the exploration of privilege adds depth to the story and encourages readers to reflect on their own privileges and responsibilities.

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