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AHSEC Class 11 Alternative English Solved Question Paper 2023
The HS 1st Year Alternative English Solved Question Paper 2023 is an excellent resource for students of the Assam Higher Secondary Education Council (AHSEC). This Assam Board Class 11 Alternative English Solved Question Paper 2023 provides a detailed answer key to help students grasp the correct way to answer questions.
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Students who need the AHSEC Class 11 Alternative English Solved Question Paper 2023 PDF can download it from our website. The ASSEB Class 11 Alternative English Solved Question Paper 2023 PDF includes:
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- Important questions and answers from previous years.
Alte English Solved Question Paper ↓
2023
ALTERNATIVE ENGLISH
Full Marks: 100
Pass Marks: 30
Time: 3 hours
The figures in the margin indicate full marks for the questions
GROUP – A
1. Answer any ten of the following questions (1/2 × 10 = 5):
(a) What does ‘jiffy’ mean?
Answer: Jiffy means a very short moment or instant.
(b) What does ‘popover’ stand for?
Answer: Popover refers to a type of light, hollow roll made from an egg batter.
(c) What is Gusev?
Answer: Gusev is a short story written by Anton Chekhov.
(d) But I am _______. (Fill in the blank)
Answer: But I am just a voice. (From "The Voice of Humanity")
(e) What is Virgil?
Answer: Virgil was a Roman poet, best known for his epic, "The Aeneid".
(f) What is ghooral?
Answer: Ghooral is a species of wild goat found in the Himalayan region.
(g) What is the meaning of ‘vanity’?
Answer: Vanity means excessive pride in one’s appearance or achievements.
(h) I never give the wall to a ________. (Fill in the blank)
Answer: I never give the wall to a knave. (From "On Saying Please")
(i) Who was Perkins?
Answer: Perkins was the chauffeur (driver) in the story "How It Happened" by Arthur Conan Doyle.
(j) Write the full form of RT.
Answer: RT stands for Respiratory Therapist or Real Time, depending on the context.
(k) Who says, ‘Operation successful’?
Answer: The doctor in the story "Operation Successful" says this.
(l) What is a satchel?
Answer: A satchel is a small bag, often used by students to carry books.
2. Answer any six of the following questions (1 × 6 = 6):
(a) Who is the suitor of the story, "The Suitor and Paper"?
Answer: Ivan Ivanovitch is the suitor in the story.
(b) Who asked for a stag party?
Answer: Harold asked for a stag party.
(c) How many daughters did Kondrashkin have?
Answer: Kondrashkin had five daughters.
(d) Which is the hardest part of schooling, according to G. B. Shaw?
Answer: Going to school in the morning is the hardest part, according to Shaw.
(e) Which boots were not divided into rights and lefts?
Answer: Russian boots were not divided into rights and lefts.
(f) Does the scholar who knows everything exist?
Answer: No, such a scholar does not exist.
(g) How do the villagers plough the narrow fields?
Answer: The villagers plough the narrow fields with the help of oxen and wooden ploughs.
(h) How did the tiger kill his first victim?
Answer: The tiger killed his first victim by pouncing on him from behind.
(i) What items are sold by the bania in his stall?
Answer: The bania sells grains, pulses, spices, and other grocery items.
(j) What is the name of the vehicle mentioned in the story, "How it Happened"?
Answer: The vehicle mentioned is a 6-cylinder Daimler car.
(k) How many sharp curves did Claystall Hill have?
Answer: Claystall Hill had four sharp curves.
(l) What, according to Gardiner, are the liberties to preserve?
Answer: According to Gardiner, the liberties to preserve are small courtesies, such as saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.
(m) Which bird did the captive think of?
Answer: The captive thought of a swallow.
3. Answer any six of the following questions: 2x6=12
(a) Why did Kondrashkin fear that Pyotr might be sent to Siberia?
Answer: Kondrashkin feared that Pyotr might be sent to Siberia because Pyotr had made a false promise to marry his daughter but later denied it. In Tsarist Russia, breaking such a promise was considered a serious offense, and he thought the authorities might punish Pyotr harshly, possibly sending him to Siberia as a criminal.
(b) Why did Kondrashkin call Pyotr dishonest?
Answer: Kondrashkin called Pyotr dishonest because he initially courted his daughter and promised to marry her but later denied having made any such promise. This betrayal of trust and refusal to keep his word made Kondrashkin consider him dishonest.
(c) What is G. B. Shaw’s opinion on ‘routine’?
Answer: G. B. Shaw believed that routine is the most difficult part of life and education. He thought that following a fixed, monotonous schedule made life dull and uninteresting. According to him, breaking away from routine and engaging in creative, independent thinking is essential for personal growth.
(d) Why is da Vinci’s notebook considered ‘funny’?
Answer: Leonardo da Vinci’s notebook is considered funny because it contains a mix of scientific observations, artistic sketches, and strange mirror-written notes. His ideas often jumped from one subject to another, making it seem chaotic and unconventional, but it also reflected his genius.
(e) Describe the dress of a high-caste hill woman.
Answer: A high-caste hill woman wears a long, dark-colored skirt, a blouse, and a shawl. She also wears silver and gold jewelry, including nose rings, earrings, and heavy necklaces. Her attire is modest yet elegant, reflecting her social status and traditional customs.
(f) How do the inhabitants of Kumaon villages get news of the outside world?
Answer: The inhabitants of Kumaon villages get news of the outside world through travelers, traders, and occasional letters carried by postmen. Since their villages are remote, they rely on word of mouth and the few visitors who pass through their region for updates.
(g) What was whirring like a high wind?
Answer: The engine of the speeding car in "How It Happened" was whirring like a high wind. The powerful automobile was moving so fast that its motor created a loud, continuous whirring sound.
(h) What is the food offered to the captive in the headman’s house?
Answer: The food offered to the captive in the headman’s house was boiled millet and a piece of goat’s flesh. This simple meal reflected the staple diet of the village people.
4. Answer any four of the following questions: 3x4=12
(a) Why did Dr. Fituyev refuse to give Pyotr the certificate he wanted?
Answer: Dr. Fituyev refused to give Pyotr the certificate he wanted because Pyotr was trying to get a false medical certificate to avoid marrying Kondrashkin’s daughter. Dr. Fituyev, being an honest man, did not want to be part of this deceit and refused to issue the certificate, knowing it would be unethical.
(b) Why does G. B. Shaw call himself ‘an educated man’?
Answer: G. B. Shaw calls himself ‘an educated man’ not because of formal schooling but because he educated himself through independent learning. He believed that true education comes from self-study, curiosity, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge rather than simply attending school.
(c) About what does Corbett caution his imagined readers?
Answer: Corbett cautions his imagined readers about the dangers of hunting man-eating tigers and leopards. He warns that such hunts require patience, skill, and a deep understanding of the jungle, as reckless behavior could lead to fatal consequences. He also emphasizes the need to respect wildlife.
(d) Why did the narrator feel that he was ‘like a man in a dream’?
Answer: The narrator felt ‘like a man in a dream’ because he had just experienced a terrifying high-speed car accident. The shock, confusion, and surreal nature of the event left him in a dazed and dreamlike state, unable to fully grasp what had happened.
(e) What is bio-piracy? How does it affect a country?
Answer: Bio-piracy is the unethical exploitation of a country’s biological resources and traditional knowledge by foreign companies or researchers without proper compensation. It affects a country by depriving local communities of their rightful benefits, leading to loss of biodiversity, cultural exploitation, and economic disadvantages.
5. Answer any two of the following questions: 5x2=10
(a) Why did Pyotr decide to adopt ‘Hamlet’s device’ and why did he fail in this venture?
Answer: Pyotr decided to adopt ‘Hamlet’s device’—pretending to be mad—to escape his promise of marriage to Kondrashkin’s daughter. He thought that by acting insane, people would not take his commitment seriously, and he would be free from the obligation. However, his plan failed because Dr. Fituyev, the town’s medical officer, refused to certify him as insane. The doctor saw through Pyotr’s act and did not want to be part of his deception. As a result, Pyotr could not escape his predicament and was exposed as a dishonest man.
(b) How does G. B. Shaw argue that a routine, supposed to suit everybody, actually suits nobody?
Answer: G. B. Shaw argues that a strict routine, designed to fit everyone, actually fits no one because individuals have different capabilities, interests, and biological rhythms. He believes that a fixed schedule forces people into an unnatural way of living, making them feel restricted and unhappy. For example, some people are more productive in the morning, while others perform better in the evening, yet the same school and work schedules are imposed on all. Shaw criticizes this one-size-fits-all approach, emphasizing that true education and efficiency come from flexibility and personal adaptation rather than rigid routines.
(c) Describe the two instances when the villagers display bravery and courage.
Answer: The villagers display bravery and courage in two key instances:
Fighting off the tiger: When a man-eating tiger threatens their village, the men arm themselves with spears, torches, and traditional weapons to protect their people. Despite the danger, they come together with great determination, showing their courage and willingness to risk their lives for the safety of the village.
Rescuing the captive: In another instance, the villagers stand up against the headman’s unjust actions. When they learn that a captive is being held unfairly, they gather in large numbers, challenge the authority, and demand justice. Their collective strength forces the headman to release the prisoner, proving that unity and courage can overcome oppression.
5. Answer the following questions (5 × 2 = 10):
(d) What prompts A. G. Gardiner to heap praises on the bus conductor?
Answer: A. G. Gardiner praises the bus conductor for his cheerful and courteous behavior in the essay On Saying Please. Unlike many people who take their jobs for granted, the conductor performs his duties with kindness, patience, and a sense of humor. He treats passengers with respect, helps them when needed, and remains calm even in difficult situations. Gardiner appreciates how such small acts of politeness and consideration make life more pleasant for everyone. He contrasts the conductor’s attitude with those who are rude and unfriendly, emphasizing that good manners and a positive approach can improve daily life.
(e) Why was the narrator amazed to know the actual status of Stanley?
Answer: The narrator was amazed to know the actual status of Stanley because he initially mistook Stanley for an ordinary driver, but later discovered that he was actually a ghost. In How It Happened, the narrator, after a dangerous car accident, is guided by Stanley, who speaks to him in a calm and friendly manner. However, at the end of the story, he realizes that Stanley had died long ago and was only present in spirit. This revelation shocks the narrator, as he never expected that the person comforting him was not alive.
(f) Write about the journey undertaken by the captive and the young man.
Answer: The journey undertaken by the captive and the young man in A Himalayan Village was long and difficult. The captive, who had been taken prisoner by the headman’s men, was forced to travel through rough mountainous terrain with little food and rest. The young man accompanying him was tasked with keeping watch over him and ensuring that he did not escape.
As they moved through steep hills, dense forests, and narrow paths, the captive suffered from exhaustion and hunger, making the journey even more challenging. The harsh weather and difficult landscape added to their struggles. Eventually, the captive was brought to the village headman’s house, where he was given a simple meal of boiled millet and goat’s flesh. The journey symbolizes hardship, endurance, and the power struggle between those in control and those who are oppressed.
GROUP – B
(Poetry)
6. Answer any eight of the following questions: ½ x8=4
(a) A free bird ________. (Fill in the blank)
Answer: A free bird leaps on the back of the wind.
(b) Where was Maya Angelou born?
Answer: Maya Angelou was born in St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
(c) Name the poetic autobiography written by Wordsworth.
Answer: The poetic autobiography written by Wordsworth is "The Prelude."
(d) Where was the speaker on that Spring day?
Answer: The speaker was out in nature, observing the beauty of Spring.
(e) What kind of sound did the speaker hear?
Answer: The speaker heard a soft, melodious sound, possibly of birds singing or the murmuring of a stream.
(f) What is the meaning of ‘mercy’?
Answer: Mercy means kindness and compassion shown towards others, especially those in distress or in need of forgiveness.
(g) Who wrote the poem, The Divine Image?
Answer: William Blake wrote the poem The Divine Image.
(h) Where Mercy, Love, and Pity ________. (Fill in the blank)
Answer: Where Mercy, Love, and Pity dwell, there God is dwelling too.
(i) Who is seen as God’s child and care?
Answer: Every human being who embodies Mercy, Love, and Pity is seen as God’s child and care.
(j) What does ‘oft’ stand for?
Answer: ‘Oft’ stands for often.
(k) What does ‘ere’ stand for?
Answer: ‘Ere’ stands for before.
(l) To what does the poet compare his friends?
Answer: The poet compares his friends to stars, saying they remain constant and shine even when they are far away.
7. Answer any seven of the following questions: 1x7=7
(a) What is the meaning of ‘downstream’?
Answer: ‘Downstream’ means in the direction in which a river or stream flows.
(b) What is a trade wind?
Answer: A trade wind is a steady wind that blows from east to west in the tropical regions of the Earth, helping ships sail across the oceans.
(c) Where does the free bird dip its wings?
Answer: The free bird dips its wings in the orange sun rays.
(d) Who is the writer of the poem Lines Written in Early Spring?
Answer: William Wordsworth is the writer of the poem Lines Written in Early Spring.
(e) What is periwinkle?
Answer: Periwinkle is a small, evergreen flowering plant with purple or blue flowers.
(f) What kind of thoughts overpowered the sweet mood of the speaker?
Answer: The speaker was overpowered by sad thoughts about the suffering and cruelty in human life, which contrasted with the beauty of nature.
(g) What kind of man prays to the human form ‘divine’?
Answer: A man who is kind and compassionate, believing in Mercy, Love, and Pity, prays to the human form ‘divine’.
(h) Pick out one fond memory from the poem The Light of Other Days.
Answer: One fond memory from the poem is the poet recalling the joyful voices of loved ones from the past.
(i) What does the poet remember before falling asleep?
Answer: The poet remembers happy moments from the past and the loved ones who are no longer present.
(j) Whom does the poet see as leaves falling in ‘wintry weather’?
Answer: The poet sees his old friends and dear ones as leaves falling in wintry weather, symbolizing their passing away.
8. Answer any three of the following questions: 2x3=6
(a) Why does the caged bird sing ‘a fearful trill’?
Answer: The caged bird sings ‘a fearful trill’ because it longs for freedom but feels trapped and helpless. The song is an expression of its pain, frustration, and hope for liberation, as it knows nothing but the bars of its cage.
(b) What does the phrase ‘grave of dreams’ mean?
Answer: The phrase ‘grave of dreams’ symbolizes lost hopes and aspirations. It refers to a place or situation where dreams are buried or unfulfilled, often due to oppression or circumstances beyond one's control.
(c) What is the significance of the primrose tufts and periwinkle in the poem Lines Written in Early Spring?
Answer: The primrose tufts and periwinkle symbolize the beauty and harmony of nature. They represent the joy and peace found in the natural world, which contrasts with the sorrow the poet feels when thinking about human suffering and conflict.
(d) What did the budding twigs do?
Answer: The budding twigs spread out and reached towards heaven, expressing joy. The poet interprets this as a sign that nature is happy and at peace.
(e) Name the different human forms represented by ‘virtues of delight’.
Answer: The different human forms represented by ‘virtues of delight’ are Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love. These qualities embody kindness, compassion, harmony, and affection.
(f) Why does the poet feel like ‘one who treads along’?
Answer: The poet feels like ‘one who treads along’ a lonely path because he is reminiscing about the past and mourning the loss of loved ones. The memories bring both warmth and sadness, making him feel as if he is walking alone through life.
(g) What happens to the poet ‘in the stilly night’?
Answer: In the ‘stilly night’, the poet is overcome by memories of the past, recalling loved ones who are no longer with him. These memories fill him with nostalgia and sorrow.
9. Answer any one of the following questions: 3
(a) Describe the helplessness of the caged bird.
Answer: The caged bird is completely trapped and powerless, unable to experience the freedom of the open sky. Its wings are clipped, and its feet are tied, preventing it from flying. Unlike the free bird that soars in the sky, the caged bird can only sing a fearful trill, expressing its pain and longing for freedom. The bird's helplessness reflects the suffering of those who are oppressed and denied their rights.
(b) What is Wordsworth’s belief regarding Nature’s holy plan?
Answer: Wordsworth believes that Nature has a divine and harmonious plan for all living beings, providing joy, peace, and beauty. He sees nature as a source of spiritual guidance and moral values. However, he also laments that human actions disrupt this natural order, bringing suffering and conflict instead of harmony. His poem Lines Written in Early Spring expresses sorrow over how mankind has strayed from this "holy plan."
(c) What is the significance of the expression ‘In Heathen, Turk, or Jew’?
Answer: The expression ‘In Heathen, Turk, or Jew’ from The Divine Image by William Blake emphasizes universal humanity and equality. It suggests that qualities like Mercy, Love, and Pity exist in all people, regardless of their religion, nationality, or background. The poet argues that true divinity is found in human virtues rather than religious divisions.
(d) Briefly describe the banquet hall.
Answer: The banquet hall is a grand and majestic setting where noble gatherings take place. It is often depicted as a large hall decorated with fine ornaments, chandeliers, and beautifully arranged tables. The hall is filled with the sounds of music, laughter, and conversation, creating an atmosphere of celebration and elegance. In literature, banquet halls often symbolize power, wealth, and social prestige.
10. Answer any one of the following questions: 5
(a) Compare and contrast the conditions of the caged bird and the free bird.
Answer: Maya Angelou’s poem Caged Bird contrasts the freedom of a free bird with the suffering of a caged bird.
The free bird symbolizes liberty, opportunity, and joy. It soars in the sky, enjoys the wind, and claims the world as its own. It represents people who have freedom and can chase their dreams without restrictions.
The caged bird, on the other hand, lives in captivity, with clipped wings and tied feet. It cannot fly or explore the world and is trapped behind bars. It sings a fearful song, expressing its pain and longing for freedom.
The poem uses this contrast to highlight the differences between the privileged and the oppressed. The caged bird represents those who suffer from oppression, racism, or lack of freedom, yet continue to hope for a better future.
(b) What are the reasons behind Wordsworth’s lamentations?
Answer: In Lines Written in Early Spring, Wordsworth laments the contrast between the beauty of nature and the cruelty of human life.
He finds joy in the sights and sounds of nature, such as the blooming flowers, the song of birds, and the gentle breeze. These remind him of the peace and harmony that nature provides.
However, he is saddened by the state of humanity. He believes that people have turned away from “Nature’s holy plan” and have created conflict, suffering, and destruction.
He mourns the loss of innocence and purity in human life and feels that mankind has disrupted the balance that nature intended.
His lamentations reflect his deep connection with nature and his disappointment in the way human beings have strayed from its peaceful ways.
(c) Bring out the central idea of the poem, The Divine Image by William Blake.
Answer: The central idea of William Blake’s The Divine Image is that true divinity is reflected in human virtues like Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love.
The poet suggests that these qualities are not just godly but are present in every human being.
He emphasizes that all people, regardless of religion, race, or background, share these virtues, which makes humanity divine.
The poem promotes universal brotherhood and equality, arguing that God is found not in religious institutions but in the kindness and compassion of people.
Blake’s message is one of hope and moral guidance, encouraging people to practice love and kindness to create a better world.
(d) How does Thomas Moore portray the theme of friendship in The Light of Other Days?
Answer: In The Light of Other Days, Thomas Moore explores friendship, nostalgia, and the passage of time.
The poet remembers the joyful times he spent with his friends in the past. He recalls their voices, laughter, and the strong bond they shared.
However, he also feels sorrow, as many of his friends have passed away or are no longer with him. He compares this loss to leaves falling in wintry weather, symbolizing the end of life.
The poem highlights the transient nature of life, but also celebrates the lasting impact of true friendships, as memories keep loved ones alive in the heart.
Moore’s poem beautifully expresses both the joy of past friendships and the pain of their loss, making it a touching reflection on the power of human connections.
GROUP – C
(Grammar and Composition)
11. Make sentences with any two pairs of words to illustrate the difference in meanings between them: 2x2=4
Fair – Fare
Fair: The teacher gave a fair judgment in the competition.
Fare: The fare for the bus ride has increased recently.
Cite – Site
Cite: The student was asked to cite sources in his research paper.
Site: This is the perfect site to build our new house.
Eminent – Imminent
Eminent: Dr. Bose is an eminent scientist in the field of physics.
Imminent: A storm is imminent, so we should stay indoors.
Diary – Dairy
Diary: She writes her thoughts in a diary every night.
Dairy: We buy fresh milk from the dairy near our house.
Petrol – Patrol
Petrol: My car needs more petrol before we go on a long drive.
Patrol: The police patrol the streets at night to ensure safety.
Carrier – Career
Carrier: The courier carrier delivered the package on time.
Career: She is planning a career in medicine.
12. Identify five nouns and five adjectives in the sentences given below: ½ x10=5
People of every country, whether of England, or France, or Germany, or Italy, or India think that their country is the best and the greatest. This is a wrong notion; because, like individuals, every country has some positive and some negative qualities. We must take the good from others. Our country is poor and its people are sad. By following the healthy practices of other countries, we can help the backward people and make our country happier and better.
Answer:
Nouns:
People
Country
Notion
Qualities
Practices
Adjectives:
Every (country)
Wrong (notion)
Positive (qualities)
Poor (country)
Healthy (practices)
13. Fill in the blanks of any five of the following (sentences with conditional clause) with correct tense forms: 1x5=5
(a) She might catch the bus if she _____(run) fast.
Answer: She might catch the bus if she runs fast.
(b) If you _______(inform) me, I would have reached the station.
Answer: If you had informed me, I would have reached the station.
(c) Unless they _____(request) me, I shall not go.
Answer: Unless they request me, I shall not go.
(d) If I _______(be) you, I would not seek his help.
Answer: If I were you, I would not seek his help.
(e) In case you ________(see) Sudha, give her this book.
Answer: In case you see Sudha, give her this book.
(f) Unless she ______(mend) her ways, she will suffer.
Answer: Unless she mends her ways, she will suffer.
(g) If I _______(be) a bird, I would fly there.
Answer: If I were a bird, I would fly there.
(h) I wish I _______(can) play football better.
Answer: I wish I could play football better.
(i) Millions of people _______(die), if they do not receive the aid now.
Answer: Millions of people will die if they do not receive the aid now.
14. Write a precis of the following passage and add an appropriate title to it: 6
Village life has many charms. There is the peasant rising with the morning star glittering in the sky and turning his bullocks and buffaloes out to graze before sunrise. After sunrise they are taken to the fields to plough. Watch the peasant’s wife milking her cows or grinding her corn! Hear the lambs bleating, and the birds chirping! How fine the fields look! While the peasant in his fields is working all day in sun or rain, as if he plays on the lap of Mother Earth. Notice the housewives of the village with pots on their heads going to the village wells and thence bring water for their homes, all walking with slow, steady steps, in groups, talking to one another as they walk, while the pots stand piled overhead, firm like a column rooted in earth. Also see the group of villagers sitting in a temple or shop or village office in the evening and having their small talks about things in general. It is true that there is a great deal to be done for our villages by way of education, sanitation, and other modern methods of health and happiness.
Answer: Title: The Charms of Village Life
Village life is full of beauty and simplicity. The day begins early, with peasants taking their cattle to graze and later ploughing their fields under the sun or rain. Women engage in daily chores like milking cows and grinding corn, while birds chirp and lambs bleat, adding to the lively atmosphere. Housewives fetch water from village wells, walking gracefully in groups. In the evening, villagers gather at temples or shops for friendly discussions. However, despite its charm, villages need improvements in education, sanitation, and modern facilities to enhance the well-being of the people.
GROUP – D
(Drama)
15. Answer any three of the following questions: 1x3=3
(a) What is the name of the mother of Sheila Birling?
Answer: The name of Sheila Birling’s mother is Sybil Birling.
(b) What is the name of the Inspector?
Answer: The name of the Inspector is Inspector Goole.
(c) Where does the investigation take place?
Answer: The investigation takes place at the Birling family's house in Brumley.
(d) Who is Edna?
Answer: Edna is the Birling family’s maid.
(e) Who had taken the name of Daisy Renton?
Answer: Gerald Croft had taken the name of Daisy Renton, as he knew Eva Smith by that name.
(f) Who is the Chairperson of the Brumley Charity Organization?
Answer: Mrs. Sybil Birling is the Chairperson of the Brumley Charity Organization.
16. Answer any one of the following questions: 2
(a) What is the initial reaction of Mr. Birling to the manner of the Inspector’s questioning?
Answer: Mr. Birling is initially annoyed and defensive about the Inspector’s questioning. He tries to assert his authority as a wealthy businessman and former mayor, dismissing the inquiry as unnecessary and intrusive. He also insists that he had no responsibility for Eva Smith’s fate.
(b) Why does the Inspector not show the photograph to all the people at the same time?
Answer: The Inspector shows the photograph to one person at a time to control the flow of information and ensure that each person’s reaction is genuine. This tactic helps him uncover the truth more effectively, as it prevents the characters from collaborating on a false story or manipulating each other’s responses.
(c) Can Eva Smith be seen as a victim of personal and professional exploitation?
Answer: Yes, Eva Smith is a victim of both personal and professional exploitation. Professionally, she is fired from her job at Birling & Co. for demanding fair wages and later loses another job due to Sybil Birling’s influence. Personally, she is used and abandoned by both Gerald Croft and Eric Birling. Her struggles reflect the social inequalities and lack of protection for working-class women during that time.
17. Answer any one of the following questions: 5
(a) Write about the nature of the relationship between Eva and Mrs. Birling.
Answer: The relationship between Eva Smith and Mrs. Birling is one of power imbalance and social injustice. Eva, in desperate need of help, approaches the Brumley Women’s Charity Organization, where Mrs. Birling is the Chairperson. Instead of assisting her, Mrs. Birling refuses aid because Eva had used the name “Mrs. Birling” (Eric’s last name), which Mrs. Birling found offensive and deceitful. She dismisses Eva's plea, believing it is her own fault for being in such a situation. This lack of compassion highlights Mrs. Birling’s cold and judgmental nature, as well as her belief that the lower class is undeserving of help. Her decision plays a crucial role in Eva’s downfall, making her one of the key contributors to Eva’s tragic fate.
(b) How did Mr. Birling deal with the issue of pay hike demanded by his employees?
Answer: Mr. Birling, being a hard-headed businessman, dealt with the issue of the pay hike demand in a strict and unsympathetic manner. Eva Smith and her fellow workers at Birling & Co. demanded a small raise in their wages to make their lives more manageable. However, Mr. Birling flatly refused, seeing it as a threat to his business profits. He believed that giving in to the demand would encourage workers to ask for more, which he saw as bad for business. As a result, he fired Eva Smith to set an example and discourage others from challenging his authority. His actions reflect his capitalist mindset, where profit is prioritized over the well-being of workers, contributing to Eva’s downfall and showing the social divide between the upper and working class.
(c) Write why Sheila feels that she has been let down by her family.
Answer: Sheila feels let down by her family because they refuse to accept responsibility for their actions in Eva Smith’s tragedy. Throughout the play, Sheila undergoes significant character development, realizing her mistakes and feeling genuine remorse for getting Eva fired from her job at Milwards. However, she is deeply frustrated when she sees that her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Birling, remain stubborn, defensive, and unwilling to learn from their mistakes. They try to dismiss the Inspector’s visit as a joke and continue believing in their social superiority, showing no compassion for Eva. Sheila, in contrast, has gained a moral conscience, and their refusal to change makes her feel isolated. She is particularly disappointed by her mother’s lack of empathy and her father’s cold business mentality, which makes her feel as if her family has failed her morally and emotionally.
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To get the HS 1st Year Alternative English Question Paper Solution 2023 PDF, click on the link below. The ASSEB Class 11 Alternative English Solved Question Paper 2023 PDF Download option is available for free, helping students practice anytime, anywhere.
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