NU Masters Suggestions 2022-23

 NU Masters Suggestions 2022-23

Chaucer

Part -A

1. Brief Questions in “The General Prologue to The Canterbury Tales”
2. Brief question in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale”
3. Brief question in “Troilus and Criseyde”

Part – B

The General Prologue to The Canterbury Tales

1. How does Chaucer present good clergymen in “The Prologue?” [2021] 
2. What do you know about the Clerk of Oxford? [2021, 2019] ✪✪✪ 
3. Comment on the character of the Knight. [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, How does the narrator describe the Knight? [2016]
4. Portray the character of the Prioress. [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, How does Chaucer portray the character of the Prioress? [2017] Or, How does Chaucer portray the Prioress? [2016] Or, Comment on the character of the Prioress. [2015] 
5. How is the Squire different from his father, the Knight? [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪ 
6. Comment on the character of the host in “The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales.” [2018] 
7. What makes the Pardoner so offensive? [2018, 2015] ✪✪✪ 
8. How does Chaucer begin the Prologue? [2018] ✪✪✪ Or, What is the importance of spring season in the opening of “The General Prologue to the Canterbury Tales?” [2017]

The Nun’s Priest’s Tale

1. What does Chaucer satirize in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale?” [2021] 
2. How is Sir Russel, the fox, depicted in ‘The Nun’s Priest’s Tale”? [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Describe the fox after “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” [2019] 
3. Write a short note on the comic elements in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Write a short note on the comic elements in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” [2015]
4. How did Pertelote scold Chaunticleer for his cowardice? [2020, 2018, 2016, 2015] ✪✪✪
5. Narrate the circumstances that helped Chaunticleer escape from the mouth of Sir Russell, the fox. [2020]
6. Who is Pertelote? What did she say against the importance of dreams? [2019, 2018]
7. What medicine did Pertelote suggest for Chaunticleer’s nightmare? [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪
8. What does the Nun’s Priest say at the end of his story? [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪
9. How did the fox flatter the cock and seize him? [2018] Or, How did the fox flatter the cock? [2016] ✪✪✪

Troilus and Criseyde

1. How did Troilus’ life come to an end? [2018] ✪✪✪

Or, Write a note on the last days of Troilus’ life. [2016]

1. What is the significance of Troilus’ Boar dream? [2021] ✪✪✪
2. Can we consider Criseyde a betrayer? [2021] ✪✪✪ 
3. How did Diomede court Criseyde to win her love? [2020, 2016] ✪✪✪
4. How did Troilus win the love of Criseyde? [2017]

 

Part – C

The General Prologue to The Canterbury Tales

1. Chaucer depicts people as they are found in real life- Discuss. [2021]  

Or, Explain Chaucer’s art of characterization in “The General Prologue to the Canterbury Tales.” [2020] ✪✪✪

Or, Discuss Chaucer’s art of characterization with reference to “The General Prologue to the Canterbury Tales.” [2018, 2016] 

1. Write on the female characters as depicted in “The General Prologue to the Canterbury Tales.” [2021, 2019] ✪✪✪

Or, Comment on the female characters depicted in “The General Prologue to The Canterbury Tales.” [2017] 

1. Evaluate Chaucer’s narrative art in “The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales.” [2021, 2019] ✪✪✪

Or, Write an essay on Chaucer’s narrative art with special reference to “The General Prologue to The Canterbury Tales.” [2017] 

1. Discuss “The General Prologue to the Canterbury Tales” as a picture gallery of the 14th century English Society. [2020] ✪✪✪

Or, “The Prologue to the Canterbury Tales” is a mirror to the 14th century England. -Elucidate. [2018]

Or, Discuss how realistically Chaucer portrays contemporary society in “The General Prologue to the Canterbury Tales.” [2016] 

1. Write a note on the courtly characters in “The General Prologue to the Canterbury Tales.” [2019, 2016] 
2. How does Chaucer blend satire with humour in “The General Prologue to the Canterbury Tales?” [2019, 2017] 

Or, Comment on Chaucer’s use of humour and irony in “The General Prologue to The Canterbury Tales.” [2015] 

 

The Nun’s Priest’s Tale

1. Discuss the husband-wife relationship after “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” [2021, 2019] ✪✪✪

Or, Discuss Chaunticleer and Pertelote as husband and wife. [2017]

1. What mock-heroic elements do you find in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale?” [2021, 2019] ✪✪✪

Or. Estimate “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” as a mock-heroic poem. [2017]

Or, How does Chaucer employ the mock-heroic technique in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale?” [2015]

1. Discuss Chaucer’s use of the ‘digressions’ in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, Discuss Chaucer’s use of the ‘digressions’ as a rhetorical device in “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” [2015]

1. Justify the “Nun’s Priest’s Tale” as a beast fable. [2020, 2018] ✪✪✪

Or, What is a beast fable? Write a note on “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale” as a beast fable. [2016]

 

Troilus and Criseyde

1. How does Chaucer make use of humour in “Troilus and Criseyde?” [2021] ✪✪✪ 

Or, How does Chaucer deal with humour in “Troilus and Criseyde?” [2016]

1. Write on the tragic philosophy of love in Chaucer’s “Troilus and Criseyde.” [2021, 2019] ✪✪✪

Or, ‘Troilus and Criseyde’ is a lover’s tragedy. Evaluate. [2017]

Or, What tragic philosophy of the poet do you find in “Troilus and Criseyde?” [2015]

1. Evaluate the ingredients of romance in “Troilus and Criseyde.” [2020, 2018, 2015] ✪✪✪
2. Analyze Chaucer’s poetic skill in “Troilus and Criseyde.” [2020]

Or. Evaluate Chaucer’s poetic skill in “Troilus and Criseyde.” [2018] ✪✪✪

1. Consider Chaucer’s “Troilus and Criseyde” as a poem of the courtly love tradition. [2017]

 

William Shakespeare

Part -A

Brief Questions in Hamlet

Brief Questions in Othello 

Brief Questions in King Lear

Brief Questions in The Tempest

Brief Questions in Measure For Measure

Brief Questions in Julius Caesar

Part- B

Hamlet

1. How does Hamlet contemplate his mother’s remarriage to his uncle Claudius? [2021]
2. In what sense does the ‘gravediggers’ scene serve as a dramatic relief in Hamlet? [2020] ✪✪✪
3. Explain with reference, “Frailty, thy name is woman.” [2020] ✪✪✪

Or, “Frailty thy name is woman”-Explain. [2016]

1. Discuss the character of Gertrude in terms of her innocence. [2019]
2. How does Hamlet decide to catch the conscience of the king? [2019]
3. Who said, “To be or not to be that is the question,” and why? [2017] ✪✪✪

 

Othello – ✪✪✪

1. How does Iago use the handkerchief to prove Othello’s jealousy? [2021, 2017] ✪✪✪
2. Why was Othello duped so easily by lago? [2020]
3. Why did Desdemona fall in love with Othello? [2019]
4. To what extent is Desdemona responsible for her tragedy? [2019]
5. Write a short note on lago as a Machiavellian character. [2018]

 

King Lear – ✪✪✪

1. “I am a man more sinned against than sinning.”-Explain with reference. [2021]
2. Mention the tragic fall of each of the daughters of King Lear. [2021]
3. What is the tragic flaw in the character of Cordelia? [2020, 2016] ✪✪✪
4. Comment on the dramatic significance of the opening scene in King Lear. [2018]

Or, Discuss the significance of the opening scene in “King Lear.” [2016] ✪✪✪

1. What is the significance of the storm scene in “King Lear?” [2018] ✪✪✪

 

The Tempest – ✪✪✪

1. What prompts Prospero’s decision to renounce magic? [2021]
2. How does Caliban utilize the languages taught by Prospero? [2021]
3. In what way is “The Tempest” romantic in substance but classical in form? [2020, 2015] ✪✪✪

Or, What are the common classical elements in “The Tempest?” [2018]

1. What events cause Prospero to reveal his past to Miranda? [2019, 2016] ✪✪✪
2. Write a short note on Ariel. [2017]

 

Measure For Measure

1. Examine the themes of justice and mercy in the concluding events of “Measure for Measure.” [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, What religious overtones do you notice in the little of “Measure for Measure?” [2017]

Or, What is the Christian message in “Measure for Measure?” [2015]

1. What are Isabella’s charges against Angelo? [2020]
2. What is Claudio’s offense, and how is he punished for this? [2019]
3. What condition does Angelo offer to Isabella to pardon Claudio’s life? [2018, 2016] ✪✪✪

 

Julius Caesar

1. Comment on Antony’s funeral speech in Julius Caesar. [2020]
2. What is the significance of Caesar’s dying words “Et tv Brute”? [2020] ✪✪✪
3. How is Caesar assassinated in the Senate-house? [2018, 2015] ✪✪✪
4. “Not that I loved Caesar less, but that I loved Rome more.” Explain. [2017] ✪✪✪
5. What remarks on Brutus does Antony make at the end of the play? [2016]

 

Part- C

Hamlet

1. Point out and elucidate the unconventional aspects that characterize “Hamlet” as a revenge play. [2021]
2. Discuss how the play within the play contributes to the development of action in “Hamlet.” [2020, 2015] ✪✪✪
3. Do you agree that there was a method in Hamlet’s madness? If so, why? [2018, 2016]  ✪✪✪
4. How far do Gertrude and Ophelia prove the validity of Hamlet’s observation on the frailty of women? [2017, 2014] ✪✪✪
5. Comment on Shakespeare’s treatment of the supernatural elements in “Hamlet.” [2020]

 

Othello – ✪✪✪

1. Is Desdemona’s innocence and gullibility convincing? Discuss with textual reference. [2021]
2. Comment on the view that lago is more interesting than Othello. [2020, 2015] ✪✪✪
3. “Othello is the greatest tale of a man who loved excessively but loved not wisely”. Elucidate. [2020, 2017] ✪✪✪
4. Iogo stands for motive-hunting of motiveless malignity. Do you agree? [2019]
5. Write a note on Shakespeare’s use of intrigues in “Othello.” [2019] ✪✪✪

Or, Discuss Othello as a play of intrigues. [2018] 

Or, Write a note on lago’s conspiracies against other characters in the play. [2015] 

1. Discuss the point that Desdemona is partially responsible for the tragedy in “Othello.” [2018]
2. Consider “Othello” as a domestic tragedy. [2015] 

 

King Lear – ✪✪✪

1. How does ‘King Lear’ narrate the journey of a ‘King’ evolving into a ‘Man’? [2021, 2012] ✪✪✪
2. Explain the dramatic significance embedded in the subplot of “King Lear.” [2021]
3. Make a comparative study of the three daughters in King Lear. [2020, 2015] ✪✪✪
4. Bring out the significance of the storm scene in “King Lear.” [2019] 
5. Sketch the character of Lear as a father. [2014, 2018] ✪✪✪

Or, “Lear is a foolish fond old man who deserves everything he gets”- Discuss. [2016] 

1. Comment on the dramatic irony that occurs in King Lear. [2018] 
2. To what extent are Lear and Cordelia responsible for the tragic end of their lives? [2017] 
3. “The theme of blindness-both physical and emotional-is dramatically presented in the play King Lear” -Illuminate.  [2016] 

 

The Tempest

1. Elucidate the theme of usurpation as presented in Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” [2021] ✪✪✪
2. Forgiveness and Reconciliation are the keynotes in the play “The Tempest” -Discuss. [2020, 2018] ✪✪✪

Or, What is Prospero’s chief motive-revenge or forgiveness? Illustrate [2015]

1. Prospero is the dramatic center of “The Tempest.” Show how? [2019]
2. How does Shakespeare match time, place, and action in “The Tempest?” [2017] 

 

Measure For Measure – ✪✪✪

1. Comment on the portrayal of women and their social standing in “Measure for Measure.” [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, Comment on the status of women in “Measure for Measure.” [2019]

1. Is it justifiable categorising Angelo as a villian in “Measure for Measure?” Elucidate. [2021] 
2. Examine the moral, social, and political atmosphere in “Measure for Measure.” [2017] ✪✪✪
3. Evaluate “Measure for Measure” as a problem play. [2015] 

 

Julius Caesar

1. Compare and contrast the characters of Brutus and Cassius with reference to your reading of the text. [2021]
2. Comment on “Julius Caesar” as a political play. [2020] ✪✪✪
3. “The opening scene of Julius Caesar strikes the key note of the whole action.” Elucidate. [2019, 2016] ✪✪✪
4. Evaluate Shakespeare’s handling of the historical facts in the play “Julius Caesar”. [2018] ✪✪✪

Or, Analyze how Shakespeare handles the historical materials in the play “Julius Caesar”. [2015]

1. Who is the real hero of the play, “Julius Caesar?” Brutus or Caesar? [2017]

 

Modern Poetry

Part – A 

Brief Question in Walt Whitman poems  

Brief Question in W. B. Yeats Poems  

Brief Question in Robert Frost Poems  

Brief Question in W. H. Auden’s Poems

Brief Questions in Dylan Thomas’ Poems

Brief Questions in Seamus Heaney’s Poems

 

Part – B

Walt Whitman- ✪✪✪

1. How does Whitman glorify women? [2021]
2. Why does the poet celebrate his ownself in the poem “Song of Myself?” [2020] ✪✪✪

Or, What significance do you attach to the ‘I’ in the poem “Song of Myself?”

1. How does Whitman glorify death in “Song of Myself?” [2019, 2016] ✪✪✪
2. How does Whitman give equal importance to both body and soul in “Song of Myself?” [2017] 
3. Do you think Whitman is a poet of revolutionary spirit? [2015]

 

1. B. Yeats- ✪✪✪

1. What is the outcome of the seduction of Leda by Swan? [2021]
2. How does the fairy tempt the human child to go with her into the fairyland? [2021] 
3. What is Yeats’ attitude to history and civilization? [2020] ✪✪✪

Or, What does Yeats say about the rise and fall of civilizations? [2019] 

1. What does ‘Byzantium’ stand for in W.B. Yeats’s poems? [2018] 
2. “All changed, changed utterly; a terrible beauty is born.” Explain. [2018]
3. What are the prayers of the poet for his infant daughter? [2017] 
4. How does Yeats create a mixture of history, myth, and vision in the poem “Leda and the Swan?” [2016] 

 

Robert Frost- ✪✪✪

• Bring out the symbolic significance of Fire and Ice. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, What is the underlying idea of the poem “Fire and Ice?” [2019]

1. Critically comment on the relationship between the black bird and the traveler in “The Wood Pile.” [2021]
2. How does Frost express his patriotic feeling in his poem “The Gift Outright”? [2020]
3. What is Frost’s attitude toward Nature? [2019]
4. What does the wall signify in the poem “Mending Wall?” [2019, 2017, 2015] ✪✪✪
5. How are fact and fancy blended in Frost’s poetry? [2017] 
6. What pastoral elements do you find in the poems of Robert Frost? [2016]

 

1. H. Auden

• How is the poem “In Memory of W. B. Yeats” different from the traditional elegy? [2020]

1. What are the symbols that Auden used in his poem “The Shield of Achilles?” [2018, 2016]
2. What is Auden’s attitude to religion? [2018]

 

Dylan Thomas

• How does Dylan Thomas celebrate life over death in his poetry? [2021, 2017, 2015] ✪✪✪

1. How is ‘Do not go gentle into that good night’ a villanelle? [2020]
2. What is an elegy? How is “After the Funeral” an elegy? [2019] 
3. How does Dylan Thomas pay respect to his aunt in “After the Funeral?” [2018]  Or, Discuss the way of showing respect of the poet to his aunt in the poem “After the Funeral.” [2016] ✪✪✪

 

Seamus Heaney

• How has Seamus Heaney shown the transience of joy and beauty in “Blackberry-picking?” [2021, 2016] ✪✪✪

1. What is Heaney’s attitude to his forefathers as depicted in the poem “Digging?” [2020, 2017] ✪✪✪
2. Trace the personal elements you find in Seamus Heaney’s poems. [2019]
3. How is the poem “Punishment” a satire against various injustices? [2018]
4. How is marriage and love reflected in Heaney’s poem “The Skunk?” [2015]
5. Explain with reference:- “Between my finger and my thumb / The squat pen rests. / I’ll dig with it.” [2015]

 

Part – C

Walt Whitman- ✪✪✪

1. Consider Whitman’s treatment of soul, self, and body. [2019, 2015] ✪✪✪
2. Show how Whitman breaks with the traditional verse forms and themes in his poetry. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Comment on Whitman’s poetic techniques with reference to “Song of Myself.” [2017] 
3. Discuss Whitman as a poet of democracy in the light of “Song of Myself.” [2021]  Or, Comment on Whitman as a poet of Democracy. [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪ Or, Why is Whitman called a poet of democracy? [2015] Or, Discuss Whitman’s treatment of self and democracy. Or, While singing to himself, Whitman is singing of the whole humanity- Elaborate. [2014] 
4. Trace out the mystical elements in “Song of Myself.” [2020, 2018, 2016]  ✪✪✪
5. Consider Whitman as a poet of joy and optimism. [2020] 

 

1. B. Yeats- ✪✪✪

1. How is Maud Gonne presented in Yeats’ poetry? Discuss with reference to his poems you have read. [2021] 
2. Discuss Yeats as a poet of love with reference to some of his poems. [2020, 2017] Or, Illustrate W.B. Yeats as a poet of love. [2015] ✪✪✪
3. Show W.B. Yeats as a patriotic poet. [2020, 2018] ✪✪✪ Or, Can you call W.B. Yeats an Irish national poet? Elaborate your answer. [2016]
4. What romantic elements do you find in the poems of W.B. Yeats? [2018] 
5. How does WB Yeats handle myth and history in his poems? [2017]

 

Robert Frost- ✪✪✪

1. How does Robert Frost connect nature to the human situations in his poems? [2020]  Or, Examine Frost’s treatment of Nature. [2018]
2. “Frost’s poems are local in colour but universal in appeal”-Discuss. [2021, 2017, 2015] ✪✪✪
3. Find out the dramatic qualities in Frost’s poems. [2021, 2019, 2016] ✪✪✪
4. “Frost depicts modern life in a pastoral setting.” Discuss. [2019, 2014] ✪✪✪

 

1. H. Auden

• Critically comment on Auden’s treatment of love, sex, and friendship in his poetry. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Comment on Auden’s treatment of love and friendship in his poetry. [2015]

1. Consider Auden as an anti-romantic poet. [2019] 
2. Consider Auden as a modern poet. [2020, 2016]  ✪✪✪
3. Comment on Auden’s attitude to love as expressed in Lullaby. [2017]

 

Dylan Thomas

1. How does Dylan Thomas treat the theme of religion in his poetry? Discuss. [2021, 2018] ✪✪✪ Or, What religious elements do you find in the poetry of Dylan Thomas? [2015]
2. Discuss the theme of nostalgia in the poems of Dylan Thomas. [2020, 2016] ✪✪✪
3. Discuss the symbols used in the poems of Dylan Thomas. [2016] 

 

Seamus Heaney

1. Write a critical appreciation of Seamus Heaney’s poem “Follower”. [2021]
2. How has Heaney expressed his concern about the voice of the silent and oppressed? [2020, 2016] ✪✪✪
3. Write an essay on Seamus Heaney’s treatment of nature. [2019, 2011] ✪✪✪
4. Discuss the major themes in Seamus Heaney’s poems. [2018]

 

Modern Drama

Part- A

Brief Questions in You Never Can Tell

Brief Questions in Desire Under the Elms

Brief Questions in Death of a Salesman

Brief Questions in The Glass Menagerie

Part – B

You Never Can Tell

1. How does M’Comas criticise the Victorian Londoners? [2021, 2016] ✪✪✪
2. Write a short note on the role of the waiter in “You Never Can Tell.” [2021]
3. Why does the relationship between Mr. Crampton and Mrs. Clandon fail? [2021, 2015] ✪✪✪
4. Write a short note on “You Never Can Tell.” [2020]
5. What do you know about anti-romantic comedy? [2020]
6. How does Valentine define love? [2020, 2016] ✪✪✪
7. What is life force? [2019, 2015] ✪✪✪

Or, What is life force? Discuss. [2017]

1. How does Valentine win the heart of Gloria? [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪
2. How does Shaw satirize Victorian ‘modern’ relationships in “You Never Can Tell?” [2018]
3. Who conveys the message at the end of “You Never Can Tell,” and what is it? [2018]

 

Desire Under the Elms

1. How does Abbie prove her true love for Eben?  [2021, 2016] ✪✪✪
2. Briefly comment on the significance of the elm trees in the play “Desire Under the Elms.” [2019] ✪✪✪

Or, Comment on the significance of the Elms in the play “Desire Under the Elms.” [2015]

1. How does Eben take revenge on his father? [2019, 2017, 2015] ✪✪✪
2. Discuss the theme of loneliness in “Desire Under the Elms.” [2018]
3. Write a short note on the character of Cabot. [2017] 
4. Where does Cabot hide his money, and what happens to it? [2016] 

 

Death of a Salesman

1. What is Linda’s attitude towards her husband? [2020]
2. How is Willy a contrast to his elder brother, Ben? [2019, 2016] ✪✪✪
3. What made Willy Loman commit suicide? [2018, 2016] ✪✪✪
4. Write a short note on the character of Biff Loman. [2018]
5. Discuss in brief Willy Loman’s tragic flaw. [2017]
6. Describe the role of Linda Loman in “Death of a Salesman.” [2017] ✪✪✪
7. What was Willy Loman’s concept of an ideal salesman? [2015]

 

The Glass Menagerie 

1. Comment on the symbolic significance of the ‘fire escape’. [2021] ✪✪✪
2. What is ‘Peculiar’ about Laura? [2020] ✪✪✪  
3. Write a short note on Laura Wingfield. [2019] ✪✪✪
4. What is the symbolic significance of the Unicorn? [2019, 2015] ✪✪✪
5. What does Williams say about the role of the poet in The Glass Menagerie? [2018]
6. Discuss in brief “The Glass Menagerie” as a memory play. [2017] ✪✪✪
7. Discuss “The Glass Menagerie” as an Expressionist play. [2016]
8. Comment on Tom’s nightly disappearance. [2016] 
9. Describe the conflict between Tom and Amanda. [2015]  

 

Part – C

You Never Can Tell

1. Make comments on G.B. Shaw as a socially conscious playwright in the light of ‘You Never Can Tell. [2021, 2015]
2. What is life force? Give a short sketch of Shaw’s philosophy of life-force with reference to “You Never Can Tell.” [2021] ✪✪✪
3. Justify the title of the play “You Never Can Tell.” [2020, 2018, 2016] ✪✪✪
4. Critically comment on Shaw’s treatment of love in You Never Can Tell. [2019] ✪✪✪

Or, Comment on Shaw’s treatment of love and marriage in his “You Never Can Tell”. [2017]

Or, Evaluate “You Never Can Tell” as an anti-romantic comedy. [2017]

 

Desire Under the Elms

1. How does O’Neill deal with the desires in “Desire Under the Elms?” [2021, 2017] ✪✪✪

Or, How does O’Neill deal with the desires in “Desire Under the Elms?” [2015] 

1. Are Eben and Abbie the victims or winners of both of love and passion? Discuss. [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, How did the feelings of mother fixation influence Eben in his youth? [2018]

Or, Discuss Eben-Abbie relationship. [2016]

1. Discuss O’Neill’s style in “Desire Under the Elms.” [2020]
2. Discuss the theme of revenge in “Desire Under the Elms.” [2020]
3. Consider Desire Under the Elms as a tragedy of passions. [2019] ✪✪✪

Or, Comment on “Desire under the Elms” as a tragedy of passions. [2016]

1. Analyze the relationship between the father and his sons in O’Neil’s “Desire Under the Elms.” [2018] ✪✪✪

Or, Comment on the relationship between the father and his sons in “Desire Under the Elms.” [2015]

1. How does O’Neill react to the philosophy of Puritanism? Discuss it in reference to the play “Desire Under the Elms.” [2017] 
2. How does O’Neill treat the theme of sin and retribution in “Desire Under the Elms?” [2016]

 

Death of a Salesman

1. Explain the ‘American dream’. How does Arthur Miller prove that the dream is illusory? [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, Discuss the theme of the American Dream in “Death of a Salesman.” [2020] 

Or, Explain “the great American dream.” How does Arthur Miller prove that the dream is illusory? [2017] 

1. Discuss Miller’s “Death of a Salesman” as a tragedy. [2021]
2. Briefly discuss the relationship between Willy Loman and his sons. [2020, 2018] 
3. Critically discuss Willy Loman as a tragic hero. [2019] ✪✪✪

Or, Evaluate Willy Loman as a tragic character. [2017] 

Or, Discuss Willy Loman as a tragic hero. [2015]

1. What Picture of American society and family life do you find in “Death of a Salesman?” [2016]

 

The Glass Menagerie

1. Discuss “The Glass Menagerie” as a memory play. [2021, 2018, 2015] ✪✪✪
2. What symbols does Tennessee Williams use in the play “The Glass Menagerie?” [2021, 2018, 2016, 2014] ✪✪✪
3. Discuss Laura as a tragic figure in “The Glass Menagerie.” [2020] 
4. How far is Amanda Wingfield’s obsession with the past responsible for the doomed present in “The Glass Menagerie?” [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪

Or, How far is Amanda Wingfield’s obsession with the past responsible for the doomed present in “The Glass Menagerie?” [2015] 

1. What autobiographical elements do you find in “The Glass Menagerie?” [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪
2. Examine the dramatic designs found in “The Glass Menagerie.” [2016]  

 

Modern Novel

Part -A

Brief Questions in “The Old Man and the Sea”

Brief Questions in “Lord of the Flies”

Brief Questions in “The Scarlet Letter”

Brief Questions in “Brave New World”

Brief Questions in “Nausea”

Part – B

The Old Man and the Sea

1. How does Hemingway express man’s indomitable will in the character of Santiago? [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, “A man can be destroyed but not defeated.” -Explain. [2020]

Or, Explain with reference to context: “But man is not made for defeat”, he said, “A man can be destroyed but not defeated.” [2016] 

1. How does the old man kill the great marlin? [2020]
2. How did Hemingway reflect modernism in “The Old Man and the Sea?” [2019]
3. What moral victory does Santiago win in his battle with the hostile forces in “The Old Man and the Sea?” [2018] 
4. Show Santiago’s dynamism in fighting with the shark. [2015]
5. Write a short note on Marlin. [2015]

 

Lord of the Flies

• What is the symbolic significance of ‘fire’ in “Lord of the Flies?” [2021, 2016]

Or, Discuss the use and significance of ‘fire’ in “Lord of the Flies.” [2018] ✪✪✪

1. Write a note on Coral Island. [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, Write a short note on Coral Island. [2017]

1. How did Piggy die in the novel “Lord of the Flies?” [2020] 
2. Discuss the symbolic significance of ‘the shell’ and ‘the glasses’ in “Lord of the Flies.” [2019]
3. How did the society of the marooned children resemble a political state? [2019]
4. What is the significance of the Lord in “Lord of the Flies?” [2018] 
5. Discuss the significance of the conch in “Lord of the Flies.” [2017] ✪✪✪

Or, What is the function of the conch? [2015]

1. Write short notes on Piggy. [2016] 

 

The Scarlet Letter

• How does Pearl react to the Scarlet Letter? [2021, 2015]

1. Discuss the significance of the first scaffold scene in “The Scarlet Letter.” [2020] 
2. What is the significance of the forest in “The Scarlet Letter?” [2020]
3. Write a short note on The Scarlet Letter. [2020] 
4. Describe the significance of the second scaffold scene in “The Scarlet Letter.” [2018]
5. Describe Pearl’s personality and appearance. [2018] ✪✪✪ Or, Trace out the role and significance of Pearl in “The Scarlet Letter.” [2016]
6. What are the effects of the scarlet letter on Hester Prynne? [2017]
7.  Write a short note on the character of Dimmesdale. [2017] ✪✪✪
8. Describe the brief happy moments of Dimmesdale and Hester Prynne spent in the forest. [2016]

 

Brave New World

1. Why does John commit suicide at the end of the novel “Brave New World?” [2020]
2. What is the importance of ‘Soma’ in “Brave New World?” [2019, 2016] ✪✪✪
3. Explain Lenina’s importance in the development of the novel “Brave New World.” [2018] 
4. Assess the character of Linda in “Brave New World.” [2017] 
5. How are the people of the world state treated? [2015]
6. Write a short note on Utopia. [2015]

 

Nausea

1. Show how Sartre displays his theory ‘existence precedes essence’. [2021, 2015] Or, How does Sartre display his theory ‘existence precedes essence’ in “Nausea?” [2018] ✪✪✪
2. When does an epiphany occur in Roquentin in “Nausea?” [2020, 2016] ✪✪✪
3. Discuss the theme of time and free will as depicted in “Nausea.” [2019]

 

Part – C

The Old Man and the Sea ✪✪✪

1. What are the principal themes in “The Old Man and The Sea?” Discuss. [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, What are the major themes in “The Old Man and the Sea?” Discuss. [2017] 

1. Show Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea” as an allegory of man’s struggle in life. [2021] ✪✪✪

Or, Is Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea” an allegory of man’s struggle in life? Justify in your answer. [2019] 

Or, Do you consider “The Old Man and the Sea” as an allegory of man’s struggle in life? [2017] 

1. “The Old Man and the Sea” celebrates life and humanity. Discuss. [2020] 
2. Trace out the major symbols in “The Old Man and the Sea.” [2019, 2016]
3. Assess the relationship between the old man and the boy Manolin. [2018] ✪✪✪

Or, Evaluate the relationship between the Old Man and the boy Manolin in “The Old Man and the Sea.” [2015]

1. Do you think that it is appropriate to see Santiago as a Christ figure? Give reasons for your answer. [2015]

Or, Do you find any resemblance between Santiago and Jesus Christ in Hemingway’s novel “The Old Man and the Sea?”

 

Lord of the Flies ✪✪✪

1. Critically analyze the triumph of evil over good in “Lord of the Flies.” [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Illustrate the theme of good and evil as depicted in “Lord of the Flies.” [2019] Or, Illustrate the theme of good and evil in “Lord of the Flies.” [2017]
2. Discuss the significance of mock hunts in “Lord of the Flies.” [2021, 2016] ✪✪✪
3. Evaluate the character of Ralph as the protagonist of the novel “Lord of the Flies.” [2020] Or, Show the development of Ralph as the protagonist in the novel “Lord of the Flies.” [2018] 
4. Justify the title of the novel “Lord of the Flies.” [2020, 2016] ✪✪✪
5. Explain the significance of the Coral Island in “Lord of the Flies.” [2019, 2011]
6. How are innocence and experience connected thematically? [2018] ✪✪✪

 

The Scarlet Letter ✪✪✪

1. Demonstrate “The Scarlet Letter” as ’a tale of human frailty and sorrow’. [2021]
2. Comment on the use of irony in “The Scarlet Letter.” [2021]
3. Critically examine Hawthorne’s Puritanic attitude in the novel “The Scarlet Letter.” [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, Examine critically Hawthorne’s puritanic attitude in the novel “The Scarlet Letter.” [2018] 
4. Comment on the theme of ‘crime’ and ‘punishment as presented in Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter.” [2019] ✪✪✪ Or, Comment on the theme of crime and punishment in the novel “The Scarlet Letter.” [2017] 
5. Write a note on the use of symbols in Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter.” [2017] 
6. Discuss the significance of the forest scenes in “The Scarlet Letter.” [2015]
7. The curse of modern civilization is the spirit of isolation. Comment in the light of the novel “The Scarlet Letter.” [2015]

 

Brave New World

1. Justify the title of the novel “Brave New World.” [2021, 2010] ✪✪✪
2. Justify the novel “Brave New World” as a science fiction. [2020, 2015] ✪✪✪ Or, “Brave New World” is a science fiction, but at the same time, it is also a criticism of science. Elucidate. [2018] 
3. Evaluate the symbolic significance of John the savage in the novel “Brave New World.” [2018]
4. Do you consider “Brave New World” to be a dystopia? [2016]

 

Nausea

1. “Nausea” is Sartre’s analysis of consciousness of self. -Discuss. [2021, 2019, 2015] ✪✪✪
2. Critically examine the instances of “bad faith” as presented in the novel “Nausea.” [2020, 2018] ✪✪✪
3. Nausea is a study of an individual trying to understand his relationship with the phenomena around him. Discuss. [2017] 
4. Critically analyse the character of Antoine Roquentin in “Nausea.” [2016]

 

Prose 

Part- A 

Brief Questions The American Scholar

Brief Questions Civil Disobedience 

Brief Questions Shakespeare’s Sister

Brief Questions Tradition and Individual Talent

Brief Questions Literature and Society

Part- B

The American Scholar ✪✪✪

1. What does Emerson say about creative reading? [2021, 2018] ✪✪✪
2. Present the Man Thinking according to Emerson. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, What is the man Man Thinking according to Emerson? [2019, 2017] Or, What is Emerson’s conception of ‘Man Thinking’? [2015]
3. Explain with reference to the context: “Books are the best of things, well used; abused, among the worst.” [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, What are the influences that the books should have on The American Scholar? [2017] Or, How is the scholar influenced by the books of the past? [2015]
4. In brief, write about the three great educators of the mind as Emerson shows in “The American Scholar.” [2019]
5. What are the chief characteristics of the scholar? [2016] 

 

Civil Disobedience ✪✪✪

1. “All voting is a sort of gaming” -Explain with reference to the context. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Why does Thoreau think that voting is merely a sort of a gaming? [2019, 2017]
2. Show Thoreau’s opinion about paying taxes. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, What does Thoreau say about paying taxes? [2016] Or, How did Thoreau protest against his government? [2015]
3. Give a description of Thoreau’s room-mate in the prison-cell. [2020] 
4. Why does Thoreau say that the rich are less likely to practice civil disobedience? [2019]
5. What does Thoreau mean by the statement, “That government is best which governs not at all”? [2018]
6. What is a peaceful revolution as defined by Thoreau? [2018, 2015] ✪✪✪
7. How does Thoreau weigh his imprisonment? [2016]

 

Shakespeare’s Sister

1. Write a short note on the essay “Shakespeare’s Sister.” [2021] 

 

Tradition and Individual Talent ✪✪✪

1. Why is a sense of tradition essential? [2021] 
2. Write a short note on ‘structural emotion’. [2020]
3. What is ‘positive tradition’? [2020]
4. Briefly describe the depersonalisation theory. [2018] ✪✪✪ Or, Describe depersonalisation theory. [2015]
5. What does T.S. Eliot mean by the historical sense? [2018] ✪✪✪
6. Elaborate T.S. Eliot’s views on emotion of art in poetry. [2017] ✪✪✪
7. What is negative capability? [2016]
8. Why does Eliot object against Wordsworth’s theory of emotion recollected in tranquility? [2016]
9. How does a poet meet his maturity? [2015]

 

Literature and Society ✪✪✪

1. How does F. R. Leavis evaluate Blake’s poetry? [2021, 2019] ✪✪✪
2. How does F. R. Leavis evaluate the Queen Anne period? [2020]
3. How does F.R. Leavis consider the Augustan Age? [2018, 2015] ✪✪✪
4. What does F. R. Leavis say about Neo-classicism in “Literature and Society?” [2017]

 

Part- C

The American Scholar ✪✪✪

1. Write a note on Emerson’s view about the duties of the American scholar. [2021]  Or, Discuss Emerson’s views about the duties of an American Scholar. [2021]  Or, What is Emerson’s view about the duties of “The American Scholar?” [2019, 2017, 2015] ✪✪✪
2. Describe, in detail, Emerson’s philosophy of one man divided into many.  [2020]
3. How does Emerson characterize his age and its relation to the past? [2019]
4. Give a brief account of the content and style of the essay, “The American Scholar.” [2018]
5. Discuss how The American Scholar is influenced by Nature. [2017] ✪✪✪ Or, How can nature help a scholar, according to Emerson? [2015]
6. How can the scholar arm himself for the betterment of America? [2016] ✪✪✪ Or, What are the three main influences on the American Scholar and how do they work?

 

Civil Disobedience ✪✪✪

1. Explain Thoreau’s attitude towards unjust laws in a democratic state. [2021] Or, What is Thoreau’s idea about a peaceful revolution against an unfair government? [2017] ✪✪✪

Or, Discuss Thoreau’s view on the people’s discontent of the government. [2016]

1. What does Thoreau suggest about the relationship between the government and the individual in his essay “Civil Disobedience?” [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, How does Thoreau deal with the relation between the government and the individual in his essay “Civil Disobedience?” [2018] Or, How does Thoreau treat the relation between the government and the individual in his essay “Civil Disobedience?” [2015] 
2. Write a note on Thoreau’s prose style with reference to the essay “Civil Disobedience.” [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, Evaluate Thoreau’s essay “Civil Disobedience” in respect of its theme and style. [2017, 2015]
3. Do you think Thoreau’s concept of civil disobedience can exist harmoniously with a democratic government? [2019] 

 

Shakespeare’s Sister

1. How does Virginia Woolf present women in the sixteenth century in “Shakespeare’s Sister?” Discuss. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Give a picture of woman in the sixteenth century as presented in “Shakespeare’s Sister.” [2019] Or, What, according to Virginia Woolf, are the barriers that women faced to become a writer? [2017] 
2. Critically comment on Judith’s committing suicide. [2019] Or, Why did Judith commit suicide? What does her suicide signify? [2015]
3. Evaluate “Shakespeare’s Sister” as a feminist essay. [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, Consider “Shakespeare’s Sister” as a feminist essay. [2018, 2016]

 

Tradition and Individual Talent

1. Show, according to Eliot, the interrelation between past and present in the making and judging a poem. [2021] Or, How, according to Eliot, are the past and present interrelated in the making and judging a poem? [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪
2. Discuss Eliot’s impersonal theory of poetry. [2020]
3. Write an essay on Eliot’s classicism. [2020, 2015] ✪✪✪
4. How important is the relationship between tradition and individual talent? Discuss. [2018] ✪✪✪ Or, Comment on the importance of the relationship between tradition and individual talent. [2016]

 

Literature and Society ✪✪✪

1. Evaluate F. R. Leavis as a literary critic. [2021, 2016] ✪✪✪
2. Mention the reasons for which literature should be based on the whole culture. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Discuss why FR Leavis says that literature should be based on the whole culture. [2019] Or, How does F. R. Leavis argue in favour of his view that literature should be based on the whole culture? [2017]
3. Evaluate Leavis’ objections against the Wordsworthian theory of poetry. [2020]
4. Critically comment on the title of the essay “Literature and Society.” [2018] ✪✪✪ Or, Justify the title of the essay “Literature and Society.” [2015]

 

South Asian and African Literature

Part- A

Brief Questions in Tree Without Roots

Brief Questions in The God of Small Things

Brief Questions in Kazi Nazrul Islams poems

Brief Questions in Things Fall Apart

Brief Questions in Petals of Blood

Part- B

Tree Without Roots ✪✪✪

1. Why did Majeed take revenge on Amena? [2021]
2. Discuss the character of Rahima in “Tree Without Roots.” [2020]
3. Comment on the character of Khaleque Bepari in “Tree Without Roots.” [2020, 2017] ✪✪✪
4. How does an ordinary grave become a mazar in “Tree Without Roots?” [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪
5. How does Jamila act as a threat to Majeed? [2018]
6. How does Majeed use the mystery of the mazar to arrange a test for Amena? [2018, 2015] ✪✪✪
7. Why does Majeed regret marrying Jamila? [2016] 
8. What story does Majeed feign about the cause of his shifting to Mahabbatpur? [2016]

 

The God of Small Things ✪✪✪

1. Why does Velutha become the victim of the society? [2021] Or, Write a short note on the character of Velutha. [2017]
2. In what sense is Margaret Kochamma a victim of misfortunes in “God of Small Things?” [2022] Or, Why did Baby Kochamma change in life? [2021] Or, Why did Baby Kochamma become a frustrated figure? [2020] Or, Why did Baby Kochamma become a frustrated figure in “God of Small Things?” [2017] ✪✪✪
3. What do you know about the “God of Small Things?” [2020]  ✪✪✪ Or, What does Arundhurti Roy mean by ‘small things? [2017]
4. Who are responsible for the tragic end of Ammu in “The God of Small Things?” [2018]
5. Briefly narrate the series of events that lead to Sophie Mol’s death. [2016] 
6. To what extent are race, social class and religion important in “The God of Small Things?” [2015]

 

Kazi Nazrul Islam ✪✪✪

1. What is Nazrul’s conception of man? [2021] 
2. Write a notes on some Hindu gods as used in “The Rebel” [2021] 
3. What is the central message of the poem “The Rebel?” [2020, 2018] ✪✪✪
4. What do you find about Nazrul’s rebellious spirit in the poem “Manush?” [2020]
5. What messages against inequality and injustice does Nazrul leave in his poems? [2019, 2016] ✪✪✪
6. How does the poet attack the priesthood in his poem “Manush” [Man]? [2019]
7. Write the substance of the poem “Of Equality and the Happy Land.” [2017]
8. What do the tender flute in one hand of the rebel and the war bugle in the other symbolize? [2016]

 

Things Fall Apart

1. Why was Okonokwo exiled? [2021]
2. Present a short account of how the New Yam Festival was observed in Umuofia. [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, “The New Yam Festival was thus an occasion for joy throughout Umuofia.” Elucidate. [2018]
3. How does the Igbo society fall apart? [2019, 2017] ✪✪✪
4. What made Okonkwo commit suicide? [2019]
5. Give a brief account of how Ikemefuna gradually became intimate with Nwoye, Okonkwo’s son. [2018]
6. Why does Okonkwo make conscious efforts to avoid looking like his father? [2016]

 

Petals of Blood

1. In what situation was the triple murder committed? [2021]
2. What did the people do to end the drought? [2018] ✪✪✪

 

Part- C

Tree Without Roots ✪✪✪

1. Discuss the role of the female characters in “Tree Without Roots.” [2021] ✪✪✪
2. Compare Rahima with Jamila. Point out the signs of change Rahima shows as we come toward the end of “Tree Without Roots.” [2016]
3. Sketch the character of Majeed in the light of “Tree Without Roots.” [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Analyze the evil sides of Majeed’s character. [2018] Or, Would you call Majeed the hero of “Tree without Roots?” Give reasons. [2016] 
4. Justify the title of the novel “Tree Without Roots.” [2020, 2017] ✪✪✪ Or, Comment on the significance of the title “Tree Without Roots.” [2019]
5. What picture of religious fanaticism do you get in “Tree Without Roots?” [2019] 
6. Discuss Syed Waliullah’s use of existentialism in “Tree Without Roots.” [2017] 

 

The God of Small Things ✪✪✪

1. Evaluate Ammu-Velutha relationship in “The God of Small Things.” [2021]
2. Comment on the title of the novel “God of Small Things.” [2019]
3. State the picture of Indian society you notice in “The God of Small Things.” [2020] Or, How does the writer satirise the caste system of India in the novel “God of Small Things?” [2019] ✪✪✪ Or, What picture of the downtrodden do you find in “The God of Small Things?” [2018] Or, What picture of Indian society do you notice in “The God of Small Things?” [2017] Or, Comment on Roy’s treatment of the theme of social discrimination in “The God of Small Things.” [2016]
4. Write an elaborate note on the character of Ammu. [2016]
5. Discuss satire and irony in “The God of Small Things.” [2015]

 

Kazi Nazrul Islam ✪✪✪

1. An essential humanism informs the poetry of Kazi Nazrul Islam. Elucidate with reference to his poems you have read. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Write a note on Nazrul’s humanism. [2019]  Or, Nazrul places human beings at the centre of the universe.- Discuss. [2017] Or, Do you agree to the view that Nazrul is one of the greatest humanists of the twentieth century? Answer with reference to his poems. [2016]
2. Evaluate Kazi Nazrul Islam as a rebel poet with reference to his poems you have read. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Evaluate Kazi Nazrul as a rebel poet. [2019]  Or, Comment on Kazi Nazrul Islam as a rebel poet. [2017] Or, Discuss Nazrul as a patriotic poet. 
3. Assess Nazrul’s contributions to the freedom struggles with reference to “Beware, My Captain.” [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, Discuss the social and political background of the poem “Beware My Captain.” [2018] Or, Assess Nazrul’s contributions to the freedom struggles with reference to “Kandari Hushiar” [Beware, My Captain]. [2015]
4. “In the poem “Man [Manush]” man is above everything else.” Discuss the significance of this statement. [2018]

 

Things Fall Apart

1. Consider Okonkwo as a tragic hero. [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, “Okonkwo’s whole life was dominated by fear, and the fear of failure and weakness.” Elucidate. [2018] Or, Who is the protagonist of the tragic novel “Things Fall Apart?” Justify your answer. [2017]  Or, Is Okonkwo destined for tragedy or do his choices lead him to his tragic end? Explain. [2015]
2. Discuss Ikemefuna as the most tragic figure in “Things Fall Apart.” [2020]  Or, Ikemefuna is the most tragic figure in the novel “Things Fall Apart.” Discuss. [2018] ✪✪✪
3. Would you agree that Igbo culture is dynamic? Find evidence in “Things Fall Apart” to support/oppose the notion. [2016] 

 

Petals of Blood ✪✪✪

1. Discuss how does Ngugi Wa Thiong’o glorify the common people in “Petals of Blood?” [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Critically comment on Ngugi’s glorification of the common people and their tradition. [2019]
2. Describe the effect of Colonialism in “Petals of Blood.” [2021] ✪✪✪ Or, Comment on Ngugi Wa Thiong’o’s attitude toward colonialism in “Petals of Blood.” [2018]  Or, How has the writer depicted the adverse effects of capitalism in “Petals of Blood?” [2017]  ✪✪✪ Or, Write a note on Ngugi’s attitude to capitalism as found in “Petals of Blood.” [2016] 
3. Write a critical appreciation of “Petals of Blood.” [2020] ✪✪✪ Or, Critically discuss the significance of the title of “Petals of Blood.” [2015]
4. Present a comparative study of Munira and Wanja of “Petals of Blood.” [2020] 
5. Discuss the character of Wanja. [2015]