Comprehension
Q1. Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
“Forward, the Light Brigade!”
Was there a man dismay’d?
Not tho’ the soldier knew
Someone had blunder’d
Theirs not to make reply,
Theirs not to reason why,
Theirs but to do and die
Into the valley of Death
Rode the six hundred
a. How did the soldiers feel when they realised their blunder?
i. They were dismayed ii. They were fearless iii. They were confused. iv. They were hesitant.
Answer: ii. They were fearless.
b. How did the soldiers respond to the blunder?
i. They questioned their superiors.
ii. They made a strategic retreat.
iii. They carried out their orders without question.
iv. They protested and refused to fight.
Answer: iii. They carried out their orders without question.
c. Complete the sentence appropriately.
The soldiers’ task was____
The soldiers’ task was to follow orders, even if it meant facing death.
d. In the given lines what figure of speech does the poet use ?
Theirs not to make reply,
Theirs not to reason why,
Theirs but to do and die:
- Irony ii Repetition iii. Anaphora iv. Simile
Answer: iii. Anaphora
e. The use of the phrase ‘valley of death’ creates an image of _____
i. confinement ii. danger. iii. confusing iv. damage
Answer: ii. danger.
Q2. Answer the following questions in 30-40 words each.
a. Why does the poet use repetition in the poem?
Answer: The poet, Alfred Lord Tennyson, uses repetition to emphasize the bravery and discipline of the soldiers, despite the danger they face. Phrases like “Theirs not to reason why, / Theirs but to do and die” highlight their unquestioning obedience and sense of duty. This repetition also builds a rhythm that mimics the relentless pace of the charge, giving readers a feel of the soldiers’ determination as they move toward the “valley of Death.”
b. Did all the soldiers make the journey back? Cite the lines from the poem that indicate the fate of the soldiers.
Answer: No, not all the soldiers made it back. The lines “While horse and hero fell, / They that had fought so well” indicate that many soldiers lost their lives in the charge. Tennyson hints at their heroic but tragic fate, emphasizing their bravery in battle despite the fatal outcome of their mission.
c. Why did the soldiers of the Light Brigade charge when they knew that the order was a mistake?
Answer: The soldiers charged because they were committed to obeying orders, a strong part of their military duty. The line “Theirs not to reason why, / Theirs but to do and die” reflects their deep sense of loyalty and courage. They didn’t question their superiors’ command, showing their dedication to duty and honor, even when facing certain death.
d. How does the poet urge us to regard the Light Brigade?
Answer: The poet urges us to admire and respect the bravery of the Light Brigade. Tennyson portrays them as courageous heroes who follow orders despite knowing they are heading into danger. Through his powerful imagery and phrases, he asks readers to honor their selflessness, sacrifice, and loyalty to their duty, emphasizing that their actions were both noble and worthy of lasting admiration.
Q3. Answer the following questions in 80-100 words each.
- Does the poem glorify war, courage, and honour? Give reasons for your answer.
Answer: Yes, “The Charge of the Light Brigade” does glorify courage and honor in the face of adversity. The poem focuses on the bravery and dedication of the soldiers who obey orders without hesitation, even when they realize the command is a blunder. Through phrases like “Boldly they rode and well,” Tennyson praises their loyalty and valor. Although the poem does not hide the tragedy of war, as seen in the “valley of Death,” it highlights the courage and sacrifice of the Light Brigade. Tennyson invites readers to honor the soldiers for their selfless dedication and bravery, giving a sense of heroism and nobility to their final act.
b. How does the structure, rhythm, and words used in the poem ‘The Charge of the Light Brigade” create imagery in the mind of the reader?
Answer: The structure and rhythm of the poem enhance the imagery by mimicking the steady pace of a military charge. Tennyson’s use of short, forceful lines like “Forward, the Light Brigade!” and repeated phrases such as “Cannon to right of them, / Cannon to left of them” create a vivid picture of the soldiers surrounded by danger. The rhythm, which builds momentum, echoes the relentless advance of the brigade, making readers feel the intensity of the scene. Words like “valley of Death” and “stormed at with shot and shell” paint a grim picture of the battlefield, allowing readers to visualize the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers as they march into near-certain death. This combination of structure and powerful language helps create a memorable and impactful image of their bravery.