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GNDU Question Paper-2021
Bachelor of Commerce
(B.Com) 3
rd
Semester
ENGLISH (Compulsory)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 50
Note: Attempt five questions in all, selecting at least one question from each section. The
fifth question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Use your own ideas to complete the sentences:
(i) We can meet tomorrow unless ________.
(ii) I like hot weather as long as ________.
Complete the sentences. Use the words in brackets in the correct order:
(iii) _________ (take/l/usually) sugar in coffee.
(iv) They live in the same building as me, but __________ (never/l/have/spoken) to them.
(v) My eyesight isn't very good._________ (I/read/can/only) with glasses.
Complete the sentences with 'than' or 'as....':
(vi) They’ve been very lucky. I wish we were as lucky _________
(vii) He doesn't know much I know more______________
Complete each sentences with an adverb
(viii) Our team lost the game because we played very _______
(ix) We didn't go out because it was raining ________
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(x) We had to wait for a long time, but we didn't complain. We waited _________.
2. Complete the sentences using the noun preposition:
(i) Thank you for the _________ your party next week.
(invitation)
(ii) Did you get a _________ the email you sent to the company
(reply)
Put in 'by', 'in', 'on' or 'with':.
(iii) The plane was badly damaged _________ lightning.
(iv) I don't mind going __________ car, but I don't want to go _______ your car.
(v) How long does it take to cross the Atlantic _______ ship?
Complete the sentences with 'on time' or 'in time':
(vi) The film was supposed to start at 8:30, but it didn't begin _________
(vii) The train service isn't very good. The trains are rarely ________.
Correct the following sentences:
(viii) Did you come here by Kate's car or yours?
(ix) I don't like travelling on bus.
(x) I know this music is from Beethoven, but I can't remember what it's called.
SECTION-B
3. Write an essay on any one topic:
(i) Students and Politics
(ii) Information Technology.
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4. Complete the sentences. Use a verb + 'away' or 'back':
(i) Be careful! That's an electric fence __________ from it.
(ii) I was away all day yesterday. I _________ very late.
(iii) I smiled at him, but he didn't _________
Complete the sentences using 'put on' + the following:
(iv) I wanted to to listen to some music, so I ________ (a CD).
(v) It was getting cold, I _________ (the heating).
Complete the sentences using a verb in the correct foam:
(vi) I hate in questionnaires ________ using a verb in ER
(vii) Steve was upset because he'd been _______ out of the team.
Put in the correct preposition. If the sentence is already complete, leave the space empty:
(viii) A strange thing happened __________ me a few days my car and stole the ago.
(ix ) Somebody broke________ my car and stole the radio.
(x) Patrick is a photographer. He specialises _______sports photography.
SECTION-C
5. Give the central idea of the poem 'That Time of Year Thou May'st in Me Behold'.
6. (A) Describe the dressing table of Belinda.
(B) Draw a character-sketch of Ulysses as presented by Alfred Tennyson in his poem.
SECTION-D
7. Choose the correct form of the words from the list to complete the following sentences.
Use the correct verb tenses and subject-verb agreement. Use the correct singular and
plural noun forms:
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achieve, revival, conquest, achievement, pursue, inheritance, revive, pursuit, conquer,
inherit.
(i) Her sons ________ her bright red hair.
(ii) My son wants to ________ his interest in art.
(iii) The architect considered the new building his finest _______.
(iv) During the war, there was a/an _____ of interest in home gardens.
(v) She received a diamond ring as part of a/an _________ from her grandmother.
(vi) Researchers have worked for years in their ________ of a cure for cancer.
(vii) Although we have not ________ cancer, we have come a long way in treatment.
(viii) This new discovery will __________ earlier interest in genetic medicine.
(ix) In the future, genetic researchers may _________ success with other major diseases.
(x) Discoveries in basic science can lead to the ________of dangerous diseases.
8. Locate the reduced relative clauses in the following sentences :
(i) Stories told by new immigrants indicate the challenges they face as new arrivals to an
unfamiliar land.
(ii) Gene therapy may be able to help people suffering from Parkinson's disease.
(iii) Many of the drugs being used in medicine today are extremely expensive.
(iv) The major problem facing health-care systems is the increasing cost of medical care.
(v) Most democratic nations with diverse populations have laws intended to protect ethnic
and religious minorities from discrimination.
(vi) Today's immigrants are following the patterns established by earlier immigrants.
(vii) A complaint sometimes directed at immigrants is that they are unwilling assimilate ----
to become full members of U.S. society.
(viii) Refugees forced to leave their native countries often find it a long and difficult process
to become legal immigrants in a new world.
(ix) Acquiring an adequate knowledge of English is one of the first tasks facing many
immigrants coming to the United States and Canada.
(x) Only a small percentage of immigrants arriving in the United States ever returned to live
in their native countries.
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GNDU Answer Paper-2021
Bachelor of Commerce
(B.Com) 3
rd
Semester
ENGLISH (Compulsory)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 50
Note: Attempt five questions in all, selecting at least one question from each section. The
fifth question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Use your own ideas to complete the sentences:
(i) We can meet tomorrow unless ________.
(ii) I like hot weather as long as ________.
Ans: (i) We can meet tomorrow unless it rains heavily.
(ii) I like hot weather as long as there is enough cool water to drink.
Complete the sentences. Use the words in brackets in the correct order:
(iii) _________ (take/l/usually) sugar in coffee.
(iv) They live in the same building as me, but __________ (never/l/have/spoken) to them.
(v) My eyesight isn't very good._________ (I/read/can/only) with glasses.
Ans: (iii) I usually take sugar in coffee.
(iv) They live in the same building as me, but I have never spoken to them.
(v) My eyesight isn't very good. I can only read with glasses.
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Complete the sentences with 'than' or 'as....':
(vi) They’ve been very lucky. I wish we were as lucky _________
(vii) He doesn't know much I know more______________
Ans: (vi) They’ve been very lucky. I wish we were as lucky as them.
(vii) He doesn’t know much. I know more than him.
Complete each sentences with an adverb
(viii) Our team lost the game because we played very _______
(ix) We didn't go out because it was raining ________
(x) We had to wait for a long time, but we didn't complain. We waited _________.
Ans: (viii) Our team lost the game because we played very badly.
(ix) We didn’t go out because it was raining heavily.
(x) We had to wait for a long time, but we didn’t complain. We waited patiently.
2. Complete the sentences using the noun preposition:
(i) Thank you for the _________ your party next week.
(invitation)
(ii) Did you get a _________ the email you sent to the company
(reply)
Ans: (i) Thank you for the invitation to your party next week.
(ii) Did you get a reply to the email you sent to the company?
Put in 'by', 'in', 'on' or 'with':.
(iii) The plane was badly damaged _________ lightning.
(iv) I don't mind going __________ car, but I don't want to go _______ your car.
(v) How long does it take to cross the Atlantic _______ ship?
Ans: (iii) The plane was badly damaged by lightning.
(iv) I don’t mind going by car, but I don’t want to go in your car.
(v) How long does it take to cross the Atlantic by ship?
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Complete the sentences with 'on time' or 'in time':
(vi) The film was supposed to start at 8:30, but it didn't begin _________
(vii) The train service isn't very good. The trains are rarely ________.
Ans: (vi) The film was supposed to start at 8:30, but it didn’t begin on time.
(vii) The train service isn’t very good. The trains are rarely on time.
Correct the following sentences:
(viii) Did you come here by Kate's car or yours?
(ix) I don't like travelling on bus.
(x) I know this music is from Beethoven, but I can't remember what it's called.
Ans: (viii) Did you come here in Kate’s car or yours?
(ix) I don’t like travelling by bus.
(x) I know this music is by Beethoven, but I can’t remember what it’s called.
SECTION-B
3. Write an essay on any one topic:
(i) Students and Politics
(ii) Information Technology.
Ans: (i). Students and Politics
On a bright morning in a small town, a group of college students gathered under a banyan
tree. They were not there to prepare for exams or discuss cricket matches. Instead, they
were debating about rising prices, corruption in their city, and how leaders rarely listened to
the common people. One of them said, “If the youth like us stay silent, who will speak for
tomorrow?” This scene captures the timeless question—should students take part in
politics?
Politics may sound like a big, complicated word, but in reality, it is simply about how people
make decisions for society. From the cleanliness of your street to the scholarships for
education, everything is connected to politics. And students, being the future builders of the
nation, cannot remain untouched by it.
The Importance of Student Participation
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Students are like the fresh energy of society. They are young, idealistic, and full of dreams.
When they step into politics, they often bring honesty and a desire for change. History is
filled with examples. During India’s freedom struggle, students left their classrooms and
joined great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose. They organized rallies,
spread awareness, and even faced police batons with courage. Without the spark of
students, the fire of freedom might not have spread so quickly.
Even today, students can act as the voice of justice. They can question unfair rules, protest
against corruption, and demand equality. For example, when issues like environmental
protection, affordable education, or women’s safety come up, it is often the students who
raise their voices first. Their energy acts as a reminder to society that youth are not just
learners, but also torchbearers of change.
The Advantages of Students in Politics
There are several benefits when students engage in political life:
1. Fresh Ideas: Unlike older politicians who may become rigid, students bring new
thoughts, creativity, and modern solutions.
2. Courage to Speak the Truth: Students are less afraid of losing power or money, so
they often stand up boldly against injustice.
3. Training for Leadership: Politics is not only about ruling; it is also about serving. By
engaging in politics, students learn responsibility, teamwork, and leadership—
qualities useful in every field of life.
4. Connection with Real Problems: Many political leaders live in luxury, far from the
struggles of ordinary people. Students, however, often face challenges like rising
fees, lack of jobs, or poor infrastructure directly. Their involvement ensures these
real issues are highlighted.
The Dangers and Distractions
However, just like fire that can cook food or burn a house, politics also has two sides. If
students spend too much time in political battles, they may forget their primary duty—
studies. An uneducated politician can be dangerous, as decisions without knowledge often
harm society. Moreover, politics sometimes involves dirty tricks, like violence, bribery, or
misuse of power. Innocent students can easily become tools in the hands of selfish leaders,
losing both their future and their innocence.
That is why a balance is necessary. Students must remain students first, with their books
and learning as their top priority. But alongside studies, they can also keep their eyes open,
stay informed, and raise their voices whenever justice is at stake.
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A Balanced Path Forward
The ideal path is not to separate students from politics completely, nor to drown them fully
in it. Instead, they should be guided to participate in healthy, constructive political activities.
For instance, student unions in colleges can work not only for elections but also for
community service—organizing blood donation camps, awareness drives, or literacy
programs. By doing so, students learn how politics can truly serve the people, instead of
being just a fight for power.
Educational institutions too can play a role. Schools and colleges should encourage debates,
mock parliaments, and discussions about social issues. This way, students gain political
awareness without losing focus on academics. After all, a well-educated, socially aware
youth is the best asset any nation can have.
Conclusion
Imagine a tree: the roots are education, and the branches are politics. Without strong roots,
the branches will fall. Without branches, the tree cannot give shade or fruit. In the same
way, students need to build strong foundations through learning, but at the same time, they
should not ignore the political world that shapes their lives.
So, should students take part in politics? The answer is yes, but wisely. They must enter
politics not as blind followers but as informed, educated citizens. They must not be swayed
by selfish leaders, but instead carry the torch of honesty, courage, and service. Only then
can their energy become a force that transforms society for the better.
And perhaps, one day, one of those students sitting under a banyan tree, discussing the
problems of today, may rise to become a great leader who shapes the destiny of tomorrow.
(ii) Information Technology.
Ans: Information Technology
On a bright Sunday morning, Riya’s grandmother asked her, “Beta, how do you find out all
the answers to your homework so quickly? In our days, we had to search through thick
books for hours.” Riya smiled and pointed to her laptop, “Dadi, it’s because of Information
Technology.” Her grandmother was curious, “What is this Information Technology?” And
just like that, an entire story about one of the most powerful forces in today’s world began.
The Magical Bridge Between People and Knowledge
Imagine a world where everyone is carrying a tiny genie in their pocket—ready to answer
any question, send a message across the globe in seconds, or even show you a live cricket
match happening miles away. That genie is nothing but Information Technology (IT). In the
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simplest words, IT is the use of computers, the internet, software, and digital tools to
manage, store, and share information.
It works like a bridge, connecting people, ideas, and opportunities across the planet. Where
once it took weeks to send a letter, now an email or WhatsApp message can reach in less
than a second. The distance between cities, countries, and even continents has shrunk—not
physically, but digitally.
From Stone Age to Digital Age
Long ago, humans carved symbols on stones to pass messages. Later, books and letters
carried knowledge. Then came the telephone and television. But the real turning point was
the invention of computers and the internet. This was the birth of Information Technology
as we know it.
Today, IT is everywhere: in schools, banks, hospitals, airports, shops, offices, and even inside
our homes. From paying electricity bills online to booking train tickets, from learning coding
to attending online classes, IT has become an inseparable part of daily life.
Education Made Easy
Think about the tough days of carrying heavy school bags filled with books. Now, with IT, a
small tablet or smartphone can hold an entire library. Students can attend live classes on
Zoom, learn difficult concepts through YouTube videos, or even practice mathematics on
learning apps. For children in remote villages who once had no access to good teachers,
online education has opened a new door of hope.
The Doctor Who Lives in Your Phone
Information Technology has turned healthcare into something magical. Today, a patient in a
small town can consult a doctor sitting in another city through video calls. Machines
powered by IT can scan your body, check your heartbeat, and even remind you to take
medicines on time. During the pandemic, IT played the role of a silent hero by spreading
awareness, tracking cases, and enabling vaccination drives through digital platforms.
Business Without Borders
If you look around, almost every shop and business has been touched by IT. Earlier, you had
to visit the market to buy clothes or groceries. Now with just a click, platforms like Amazon,
Flipkart, or even small local stores can deliver items to your doorstep. IT has also given rise
to digital payments. No need to carry bundles of cash; just a QR code scan is enough.
For businesses, IT is like oxygen. It helps them advertise their products on social media,
connect with customers worldwide, and maintain smooth operations. Even farmers use IT
for weather updates, crop prices, and modern farming techniques.
The Double-Edged Sword
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But just like a sharp knife can cut vegetables and also cause injury, Information Technology
too has two sides. On one hand, it gives us knowledge, speed, and convenience. On the
other hand, overuse can lead to problems. Children sometimes get addicted to video games,
people spend too much time on social media, and cybercrimes are increasing. That is why
we must use IT wisely—like fire in the kitchen, which can cook food but also burn the house
if misused.
The Road Ahead
The journey of Information Technology has only just begun. The future promises self-driving
cars, artificial intelligence that can think like humans, virtual reality classrooms, and even
robots assisting in daily chores. IT is like a fast-flowing river, and those who learn to swim in
it will reach new heights. Those who ignore it may feel left behind.
Conclusion
When Riya finished explaining to her grandmother, Dadi smiled and said, “So, this is the
magic that connects you to the whole world!” Information Technology is not just about
machines or gadgets; it is about people, progress, and possibilities. It is the invisible thread
that weaves together our modern life.
Just like electricity lights up our homes, IT lights up our minds with knowledge, connects our
hearts with loved ones, and opens doors to opportunities that were once unimaginable. But
the real beauty lies not in the technology itself, but in how we, humans, use it to create a
better, smarter, and more connected world.
4. Complete the sentences. Use a verb + 'away' or 'back':
(i) Be careful! That's an electric fence __________ from it.
(ii) I was away all day yesterday. I _________ very late.
(iii) I smiled at him, but he didn't _________
Ans: (i) Be careful! That's an electric fence — keep away from it.
(ii) I was away all day yesterday. I got back very late.
(iii) I smiled at him, but he didn't smile back.
Complete the sentences using 'put on' + the following:
(iv) I wanted to to listen to some music, so I ________ (a CD).
(v) It was getting cold, I _________ (the heating).
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Ans: (iv) I wanted to listen to some music, so I put on a CD.
(v) It was getting cold, I put on the heating.
Complete the sentences using a verb in the correct foam:
(vi) I hate in questionnaires ________ using a verb in ER
(vii) Steve was upset because he'd been _______ out of the team.
Ans: (vi) I hate filling in questionnaires.
(“Hate” is followed by a verb in -ing form when talking about an activity.)
(vii) Steve was upset because he'd been left out of the team.
(“Been” + past participle is used in the passive voice.)
Put in the correct preposition. If the sentence is already complete, leave the space empty:
(viii) A strange thing happened __________ me a few days my car and stole the ago.
(ix ) Somebody broke________ my car and stole the radio.
(x) Patrick is a photographer. He specialises _______sports photography.
Ans: (viii) A strange thing happened to me a few days ago.
(ix) Somebody broke into my car and stole the radio.
(x) Patrick is a photographer. He specialises in sports photography.
SECTION-C
5. Give the central idea of the poem 'That Time of Year Thou May'st in Me Behold'.
Ans: Imagine walking through a quiet, late autumn afternoon. The trees have shed most of
their leaves, the wind is a little sharper, and the sunlight seems softer, almost hesitant, as if
it knows that winter is coming. In this moment, everything feels reflective, almost
melancholic. This is exactly the atmosphere that Shakespeare captures in his sonnet “That
Time of Year Thou May’st in Me Behold.” Instead of speaking about a forest or a literal
autumn, Shakespeare looks inward and compares himself to this stage of life—the later
years, the approach of old age, and the fading of vitality.
At the heart of this poem is a beautiful and honest meditation on aging. The poet begins by
asking the reader—or perhaps the beloved—to look at him and recognize that he has
entered the autumn of his life. Just as autumn is not the vibrant spring or summer of the
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year, he is no longer in the springtime of youth. The lines evoke the image of bare trees,
chilly winds, and shortening days, which metaphorically represent his waning physical
strength, the loss of youthful energy, and the inevitability of mortality. Through this,
Shakespeare presents a universal truth: aging is natural and inevitable, and just as seasons
change, so do the stages of human life.
But here’s where the poem turns into a subtle story of love and hope. Even though he
acknowledges the decline of his body and the approach of death, Shakespeare does not
dwell on sadness or despair. Instead, he introduces the idea of love as a sustaining and
eternal force. He compares his fading physical life to autumn or twilight, yet he points out
that love—like the warmth of the sun in a cold season—can shine brightly despite the
passing of years. This contrast between physical decline and enduring emotional strength is
what gives the sonnet its profound depth. It is a reminder that while the body grows weaker
and time marches on, the human spirit, especially in the form of love, has a vitality that
transcends age.
Another striking aspect of the poem is the visual imagery Shakespeare employs. The “bare
ruin’d choirs” of his body, the “shortening of the day,” and the “glory of the summer” now
gone—all these images create a vivid picture of aging. But by using these images,
Shakespeare does not make the reader mourn him; instead, he makes us reflect on the
beauty and dignity of life’s natural cycle. Life, like nature, has different seasons, each with its
unique beauty and lessons. Autumn, though quieter than spring or summer, is still a time of
reflection, wisdom, and preparation for the next stage. Similarly, Shakespeare’s aging is
portrayed not as loss alone, but as a stage that carries grace, depth, and the potential for
love to shine in its mature form.
Finally, the poem also subtly conveys a message about human awareness and acceptance.
The poet does not fight against time or pretend that youth can last forever. Instead, he
presents a calm acknowledgment of reality: that life is fleeting, beauty fades, and death is
certain. Yet, within this acceptance, there is also a celebration of the emotional and spiritual
connections that endure, showing a profound understanding of human life that is both
honest and comforting.
In essence, the central idea of “That Time of Year Thou May’st in Me Behold” is a meditation
on aging, mortality, and the enduring power of love. Shakespeare invites the reader to look
at the natural cycle of life, accept its limitations, and yet appreciate the beauty, wisdom, and
strength that come with the later stages of life. It is a sonnet that balances realism with
hope, melancholy with warmth, and physical decline with the enduring spark of love.
Reading it feels like walking through a late autumn landscape—quiet, reflective, and filled
with subtle beauty.
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6. (A) Describe the dressing table of Belinda.
(B) Draw a character-sketch of Ulysses as presented by Alfred Tennyson in his poem.
Ans: 6(A) Describe the dressing table of Belinda
Imagine stepping into a luxurious, brightly lit room in an elegant house during the 18th
century. The air is soft with the scent of roses and perfumes, and the faint sound of rustling
silk echoes as a young lady moves gracefully. In the middle of this splendid room stands
Belinda, the heroine of Alexander Pope’s mock-epic poem The Rape of the Lock, preparing
herself for a grand social event. But what immediately captures your attention is her
dressing table, a symbol of beauty, vanity, and the world of aristocratic refinement she
belongs to.
Belinda’s dressing table is not just a simple piece of furniture; it is a stage for her charm,
elegance, and the rituals of femininity that define her day. Imagine it: polished, gleaming,
and brimming with objects that hint at wealth, sophistication, and a life dedicated to
appearances. On this table, everything has its place, carefully arranged as if each item were
a precious gem waiting to be admired.
At the center lies a mirror, large and ornate, framed in gilded gold. This mirror is more than
a tool; it is Belinda’s companion, reflecting her beauty and giving her the power to adjust
her appearance to perfection. It is said that the mirror seems almost magical, capturing not
just her face but her very essence, as if it knows the drama of vanity and allure. Around it,
the table is covered with combs, brushes, pins, and powders, each one meticulously chosen
for the morning ritual. These are not mere tools; they are instruments of transformation,
turning Belinda into the dazzling figure admired by all.
Scattered across the table are delicate perfumes and essences, their bottles sparkling like
crystal, with little golden stoppers and intricate designs. A whiff of them brings a sense of
luxury and refinement; a spritz here, a dab there, and Belinda’s presence is enhanced by a
subtle, unforgettable fragrance. There are cosmetic powders, neatly arranged in small,
elegant boxes. Each powder, whether for cheeks or face, holds the promise of perfection, of
a flawless image presented to the world.
Another fascinating aspect of Belinda’s dressing table is the presence of jewelry. Tiny,
sparkling jewels—earrings, rings, bracelets, and necklaces—lie carefully arranged, almost
like a treasure chest. Each piece is a story of wealth, family, and status. In her world, beauty
is not just natural—it is adorned, cultivated, and displayed. A simple ribbon, a jeweled pin,
or a sparkling brooch is enough to transform her elegance from ordinary to extraordinary.
Belinda’s dressing table is also a theater of ritual and ceremony. Morning after morning, she
engages in a delicate performance: brushing her hair, powdering her face, adjusting her
ribbons, and selecting the perfect adornments. It is a ritual, almost sacred, and each
movement reflects her grace, discipline, and attention to detail. One could even say that
the table holds her personality, her aspirations, and her understanding of the social world
she inhabits.
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But there’s more than just beauty here. Pope, through the description of this table, cleverly
adds humor and satire. The dressing table is almost a miniature battlefield of vanity, where
hairpins and powders are soldiers, and Belinda’s reflection is the prized prize to protect.
Even in its splendor, there is an element of triviality—the poem gently mocks the obsession
of the aristocracy with appearances, showing that beneath the glitter, the actions revolve
around something as fleeting as a lock of hair.
So, in short, Belinda’s dressing table is not merely furniture. It is a reflection of her beauty,
social standing, and the rituals of aristocratic life. It is ornate, luxurious, filled with combs,
brushes, powders, perfumes, and jewelry, and dominated by a central mirror that reflects
her charm and vanity. At the same time, Pope’s portrayal injects a sense of humor and
gentle satire, making the table a symbol of both elegance and the comic trivialities of high
society.
6(B) Draw a character-sketch of Ulysses as presented by Alfred Tennyson in his poem
Now, let’s travel from a room of delicate powders and sparkling mirrors to the vast,
adventurous seas with Ulysses, as imagined by Alfred Tennyson in his famous poem
Ulysses. If Belinda’s world represents delicate beauty and vanity, Ulysses’ world represents
strength, ambition, and restless energy. But before we explore, picture Ulysses: an aging
king, having returned from long adventures, seated in his palace, looking out at the horizon.
Though his body has grown older, his spirit remains fiery and unyielding.
Tennyson introduces Ulysses as a man of intellect, courage, and indomitable spirit. Even in
old age, he feels the stir of adventure within him. Unlike ordinary rulers content with
comfort and routine, Ulysses is restless. He is a thinker, a dreamer, a doer, and above all, a
seeker of knowledge and experience. His life is not merely a succession of days but a quest
for meaning, growth, and fulfillment.
One of the most striking qualities of Ulysses is his restless ambition. He refuses to sit idly,
satisfied with past glories. Tennyson paints him as someone who cannot accept stagnation
or monotony:
“I cannot rest from travel; I will drink
Life to the lees.”
These lines reveal that Ulysses measures life not by comfort or ease but by the richness of
experience. He is a man who desires to explore, to challenge, and to know, regardless of
age or risk. His ambition is not selfish—it is tied to his belief that life is meant to be fully
lived, and that a man should never cease striving to discover more.
Ulysses is also a symbol of courage and resilience. He has faced dangers, battles, and
hardships during his long journey home from Troy, yet he remains unbowed. Tennyson
describes him as having an indomitable spirit, someone who looks beyond immediate
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comforts to pursue a larger purpose. Even when his subjects are content with mundane
routines, Ulysses seeks heroism and grandeur, inspiring admiration for his unyielding will.
Another central aspect of Ulysses’ character is his wisdom and reflection. Unlike a brash
adventurer, he has the insight of age, having experienced both triumphs and failures. He
reflects on the passage of time, the impermanence of life, and the value of action over
idleness. His famous lines:
“Old age hath yet his honor and his toil;
Death closes all: but something ere the end,
Some work of noble note…”
These words reveal that Ulysses is aware of mortality, yet he refuses to let it dictate the
terms of his life. His philosophy can be summarized as “strive, explore, and live fully until
the very end.” He embodies the idea that life is meaningful when it is active, courageous,
and purposeful, not passive or indulgent.
Tennyson also highlights Ulysses’ leadership and inspiration. He acknowledges his role as
king but finds ruling mundane compared to the excitement of exploration. Yet, he doesn’t
abandon responsibility; instead, he seeks to lead by example, inspiring his followers to
pursue greatness. His famous call to his mariners—
“To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”
—encapsulates his role as a motivator, a visionary, and a leader who thrives on challenge,
adventure, and discovery.
What makes Ulysses a fascinating character is the juxtaposition of age and energy. Though
physically older, his spirit remains youthful and vigorous. This contrast makes him timeless,
a hero not just of legend but of universal human aspiration. He is a man who refuses to be
limited by circumstances, age, or societal expectations. He is curious, daring, and eternally
restless, driven by a hunger for knowledge and experience.
Ulysses’ character is also marked by a sense of personal integrity and self-knowledge. He
knows who he is, what he desires, and what he values most: action, exploration, and
achievement. He does not seek praise or comfort; he seeks the fulfillment of life’s
possibilities. In this way, Tennyson’s Ulysses becomes a symbol of human aspiration itself,
representing the eternal quest for meaning and excellence.
Finally, Ulysses is deeply human. He experiences doubt, longing, and reflection. He is aware
of the challenges of old age, the inevitability of death, and the responsibilities of leadership.
Yet, he chooses courage over complacency, action over inertia, and adventure over
comfort. His character is not only heroic but also relatable, inspiring readers to embrace
life’s opportunities fully and passionately, regardless of age or circumstance.
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Bringing it together: Belinda and Ulysses
Interestingly, if we compare Belinda and Ulysses, we see two sides of human nature.
Belinda represents beauty, refinement, and social vanity, concerned with appearances and
rituals. Her dressing table is a symbol of her world—a stage for elegance, charm, and the
sometimes trivial concerns of aristocracy. Ulysses, in contrast, represents courage,
ambition, and the restless pursuit of knowledge, concerned with experience, exploration,
and the grander meaning of life.
While Belinda’s universe is confined, ornate, and delicate, Ulysses’ universe is vast,
dynamic, and adventurous. Belinda seeks perfection in appearance; Ulysses seeks
fulfillment in action. Yet both characters are memorable because Pope and Tennyson
present them with vivid imagery, thoughtful detail, and a touch of human complexity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Belinda’s dressing table is not merely furniture—it is a symbol of her vanity,
beauty, and the ritualized elegance of aristocratic life, brimming with mirrors, powders,
combs, perfumes, and jewelry, reflecting her charm and social status. Tennyson’s Ulysses,
on the other hand, is an embodiment of restless ambition, courage, wisdom, and the quest
for meaning, a man who refuses to yield to the limitations of age and seeks to “strive, to
seek, to find, and not to yield.”
Both characters, though from very different worlds, are presented with rich, humanized
detail. Belinda charms with her elegance, her table reflecting both vanity and beauty, while
Ulysses inspires with his courage, determination, and unquenchable thirst for life’s
experiences. These depictions not only make the characters memorable but also convey
deeper truths about human nature—the delicate allure of beauty and social grace on one
hand, and the timeless quest for meaning, courage, and adventure on the other.
SECTION-D
7. Choose the correct form of the words from the list to complete the following sentences.
Use the correct verb tenses and subject-verb agreement. Use the correct singular and
plural noun forms:
achieve, revival, conquest, achievement, pursue, inheritance, revive, pursuit, conquer,
inherit.
(i) Her sons ________ her bright red hair.
(ii) My son wants to ________ his interest in art.
(iii) The architect considered the new building his finest _______.
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(iv) During the war, there was a/an _____ of interest in home gardens.
(v) She received a diamond ring as part of a/an _________ from her grandmother.
(vi) Researchers have worked for years in their ________ of a cure for cancer.
(vii) Although we have not ________ cancer, we have come a long way in treatment.
(viii) This new discovery will __________ earlier interest in genetic medicine.
(ix) In the future, genetic researchers may _________ success with other major diseases.
(x) Discoveries in basic science can lead to the ________of dangerous diseases.
Ans: (i) Her sons ________ her bright red hair.
• The sentence talks about something the sons got from her, i.e., something passed
down naturally.
• The correct word here is inherit (to receive traits or property from a parent).
• Correct form: inherit
Answer: Her sons inherit her bright red hair.
(ii) My son wants to ________ his interest in art.
• The phrase “wants to…” requires the base form of a verb.
• “Pursue” means to follow or continue something actively.
• Correct form: pursue
Answer: My son wants to pursue his interest in art.
(iii) The architect considered the new building his finest _______.
• We need a noun here that represents a completed work.
• “Achievement” means a significant success or completed work.
• Correct form: achievement
Answer: The architect considered the new building his finest achievement.
(iv) During the war, there was a/an _____ of interest in home gardens.
• The sentence talks about something coming back—a renewal or increase of interest.
• “Revival” means the act of bringing back to life, popularity, or attention.
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• Correct form: revival
Answer: During the war, there was a revival of interest in home gardens.
(v) She received a diamond ring as part of a/an _________ from her grandmother.
• Something received from an older generation is an inheritance.
• Correct form: inheritance
Answer: She received a diamond ring as part of an inheritance from her grandmother.
(vi) Researchers have worked for years in their ________ of a cure for cancer.
• The phrase “worked in their…” requires a noun.
• “Pursuit” means the act of trying to achieve or accomplish something.
• Correct form: pursuit
Answer: Researchers have worked for years in their pursuit of a cure for cancer.
(vii) Although we have not ________ cancer, we have come a long way in treatment.
• The sentence talks about not yet succeeding in defeating cancer.
• “Conquer” means to overcome or defeat completely.
• Correct form (present perfect): conquered
Answer: Although we have not conquered cancer, we have come a long way in
treatment.
(viii) This new discovery will __________ earlier interest in genetic medicine.
• Something that brings back or restores interest is “revive.”
• Correct form (future tense): revive
Answer: This new discovery will revive earlier interest in genetic medicine.
(ix) In the future, genetic researchers may _________ success with other major diseases.
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• “Achieve” fits because it means to successfully reach or accomplish something.
• Correct form: achieve
Answer: In the future, genetic researchers may achieve success with other major
diseases.
(x) Discoveries in basic science can lead to the ________ of dangerous diseases.
• Something that has been overcome or defeated—“conquest” is the noun form.
• Correct form: conquest
Answer: Discoveries in basic science can lead to the conquest of dangerous diseases.
8. Locate the reduced relative clauses in the following sentences :
(i) Stories told by new immigrants indicate the challenges they face as new arrivals to an
unfamiliar land.
(ii) Gene therapy may be able to help people suffering from Parkinson's disease.
(iii) Many of the drugs being used in medicine today are extremely expensive.
(iv) The major problem facing health-care systems is the increasing cost of medical care.
(v) Most democratic nations with diverse populations have laws intended to protect ethnic
and religious minorities from discrimination.
(vi) Today's immigrants are following the patterns established by earlier immigrants.
(vii) A complaint sometimes directed at immigrants is that they are unwilling assimilate ----
to become full members of U.S. society.
(viii) Refugees forced to leave their native countries often find it a long and difficult process
to become legal immigrants in a new world.
(ix) Acquiring an adequate knowledge of English is one of the first tasks facing many
immigrants coming to the United States and Canada.
(x) Only a small percentage of immigrants arriving in the United States ever returned to live
in their native countries.
Ans: Sentence-by-Sentence Analysis
(i) Stories told by new immigrants indicate the challenges they face as new arrivals to an
unfamiliar land.
• Full relative clause: “Stories that are told by new immigrants…”
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• Reduced relative clause: told by new immigrants
Answer: told by new immigrants
(ii) Gene therapy may be able to help people suffering from Parkinson's disease.
• Full relative clause: “people who are suffering from Parkinson's disease…”
• Reduced relative clause: suffering from Parkinson's disease
Answer: suffering from Parkinson's disease
(iii) Many of the drugs being used in medicine today are extremely expensive.
• Full relative clause: “drugs that are being used in medicine today…”
• Reduced relative clause: being used in medicine today
Answer: being used in medicine today
(iv) The major problem facing health-care systems is the increasing cost of medical care.
• Full relative clause: “The major problem that is facing health-care systems…”
• Reduced relative clause: facing health-care systems
Answer: facing health-care systems
(v) Most democratic nations with diverse populations have laws intended to protect
ethnic and religious minorities from discrimination.
• Full relative clause: “laws that are intended to protect ethnic and religious
minorities…”
• Reduced relative clause: intended to protect ethnic and religious minorities
Answer: intended to protect ethnic and religious minorities
(vi) Today's immigrants are following the patterns established by earlier immigrants.
• Full relative clause: “patterns that were established by earlier immigrants…”
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• Reduced relative clause: established by earlier immigrants
Answer: established by earlier immigrants
(vii) A complaint sometimes directed at immigrants is that they are unwilling to
assimilate—to become full members of U.S. society.
• Full relative clause: “A complaint that is sometimes directed at immigrants…”
• Reduced relative clause: sometimes directed at immigrants
Answer: sometimes directed at immigrants
(viii) Refugees forced to leave their native countries often find it a long and difficult
process to become legal immigrants in a new world.
• Full relative clause: “Refugees who are forced to leave their native countries…”
• Reduced relative clause: forced to leave their native countries
Answer: forced to leave their native countries
(ix) Acquiring an adequate knowledge of English is one of the first tasks facing many
immigrants coming to the United States and Canada.
• Full relative clause: “tasks that are facing many immigrants coming to the United
States and Canada…”
• Reduced relative clauses:
1. facing many immigrants
2. coming to the United States and Canada
Answer: facing many immigrants, coming to the United States and Canada
(x) Only a small percentage of immigrants arriving in the United States ever returned to
live in their native countries.
• Full relative clause: “immigrants who are arriving in the United States…”
• Reduced relative clause: arriving in the United States
Answer: arriving in the United States
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