List of top English Literature Questions

Mandela in his speech says, “The policy of apartheid created a deep and lasting wound in my country and my people.” Explain the significance of the word “wound” as used by Mandela.
(Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)

‘Dust of Snow’, by Robert Frost is a poem about nature and simplicity. Elaborate.

Explain the reasons for Rajvir’s excitement on seeing the plantation and Pranjol’s lack of enthusiasm.
(Glimpses of India – Tea from Assam)

Analyze how Wells employs humour, rhyme, and exaggerated traits to not only entertain, but also educate readers about various wild animals. Explain.
(How to Tell Wild Animals)

Mijbil’s transportation to England was no less than a nightmare for the author. Justify the statement using incidents from the lesson.
(Mijbil the Otter)

Analyze how Herriot uses Tricki and Mrs. Pumphrey’s relationship to comment on societal attitudes towards pets and the responsibilities associated with their care.
(A Triumph of Surgery)

Today reading books is on the decline because of the prevalence of electronic media. Contrarily, Earth is saved by a ‘Book’ in the chapter “The Book That Saved the Earth.” Elaborate.

Discuss the character development of Griffin, as he grapples with the repercussions of his actions and attempts to navigate a world, where his once extraordinary abilities have become a burden.
(Footprints without Feet)

Amanda and Valli both represent a longing for freedom. Examine the above observation with reference to the two texts.
(Amanda and Madam Rides the Bus)

In ‘The Ball Poem’, Berryman explores the themes of loss, growing up, and transformation. Mandela also experienced loss of freedom and suffering along with his countrymen during his growing years on the basis of his race and colour.
Compare and contrast the commonality of themes in both the texts.
(The Ball Poem and Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)

Horace ends up in prison only to regret that a man should not trust anyone blindly without finding out the truth. Do you think his own foolishness was responsible for his arrest? Give a reasoned answer.
(A Question of Trust)

Matilda’s character embodies the journey of change or progression throughout the story, encapsulating the transformations she endured as a consequence of her experiences, trials, and engagements with other characters.
In the light of the above information, trace the transformation seen in Matilda’s character in the story.
(The Necklace)

What did Buddha say about death and suffering? Explain this with reference to the story ‘A Sermon at Benares’.
(A Sermon at Benares)

‘Dust of Snow’ highlights the poet’s positive attitude towards nature. Comment on how Robert Frost presents the power of nature in his poem.
(Dust of Snow)

Faith is like a ray of hope in a distressful situation. Discuss ‘A Letter to God’ with reference to Lencho’s unflinching faith in God.
(A Letter to God)

Why was the seagull afraid to fly? Why was the young seagull alone?
(Two Stories about Flying)

The tiger in the zoo is denied its natural habitat. Describe its behaviour and routine as a captive in the concrete cell.
(A Tiger in the Zoo)

“The only way was to get Tricki out of the house for a period.”
Evaluate why James Herriot had planned this in advance and how did he execute this plan at the surgery?
(A Triumph of Surgery)

Considering ‘The Necklace’ as a tale of dissatisfaction and excessive materialism, analyze Matilda’s primary flaw.
(The Necklace)

According to a popular quote – “Kindness is stronger than iron bars.”
Anil did not hand the thief over to the police. In what way did Anil’s act of wisdom and forgiveness transform Hari Singh?
(The Thief’s Story)

Ebright’s journey of becoming a leading scientist conveys a strong message to us. His inquisitiveness and competency drove him to become a great scientist. In what manner does Richard Ebright’s perseverance, dedication and inquisitiveness inspire you to pursue your dreams?
(The Making of a Scientist)

It is truly said that a good teacher is the light that helps one cross even the darkest of paths. In what ways does Sulekha’s teacher epitomize this saying? How did she become the pillar of support and strength for Sulekha?
(Bholi)

"I heard an old religious man
But yesternight declare
That he had found a text to prove
That only God, my dear,
Could love you for yourself alone
And not your yellow hair."
(For Anne Gregory)