SHORT STORIES ASSIGNMENT
Ques 1. What moral lesson do you draw from the story the "Fur". Discuss.
"Fur" is a short story written by Saki (the pen name of Hector Hugh Munro), a British author known for his wit and satire. The story follows a conversation between two characters, the Baroness and Vanessa Pennington, about the morality of wearing fur coats. The Baroness staunchly defends the wearing of fur, while Vanessa, an animal rights advocate, opposes it. The story revolves around the ethical dilemma of using animal fur for fashion and personal comfort.
One moral lesson that can be drawn from the story "Fur" is the complex nature of ethical choices and the clash of personal values. The dialogue between the Baroness and Vanessa reflects differing perspectives on what is morally acceptable. The Baroness represents a more traditional view, valuing luxury and aesthetics, while Vanessa stands for modern sensibilities that prioritize animal welfare and ethical treatment. This demonstrates that ethical decisions are often influenced by personal beliefs, societal norms, and cultural contexts.
Another moral lesson is the exploration of the exploitation of animals for human desires. The story raises questions about the morality of using animals for fashion and vanity. Vanessa's argument highlights the suffering and cruelty that animals endure to provide fur coats, emphasizing the need for empathy and compassion towards all living beings.
Furthermore, "Fur" underscores the importance of engaging in thoughtful discourse and critical thinking when discussing ethical issues. The conversation between the Baroness and Vanessa exemplifies the clash of opposing viewpoints. This reminds us that ethical dilemmas are not black and white; they require careful consideration and open dialogue to understand different perspectives and make informed decisions.
Additionally, the story serves as a commentary on the shifting societal values and changing norms. The differing opinions of the characters reflect the evolving attitudes towards animal rights and ethical consumption over time. This moral lesson encourages us to reflect on how our own values may change and adapt as society progresses.
In summary, "Fur" by Saki teaches us about the complexity of ethical choices, the clash of personal values, the exploitation of animals for human desires, the need for empathetic consideration of all living beings, the importance of open dialogue, and the evolution of societal norms. It encourages readers to think critically about their choices and consider the ethical implications of their actions.
Ques 2. Discuss the major themes of the story "Marriage is a Private Affairs".
"Marriage Is a Private Affair" is a short story written by Chinua Achebe, a Nigerian author known for his exploration of cultural conflicts and social issues. The story follows the character Nnaemeka, a young Igbo man who marries a woman named Nene from a different ethnic group, despite his father's strong opposition. The story revolves around themes of cultural clash, generational conflict, and the changing nature of traditions.
Cultural Clash and Tradition vs. Modernity: One of the central themes in the story is the clash between traditional values and modern attitudes. Nnaemeka's decision to marry Nene, who is not from his own Igbo ethnic group, highlights the tension between adhering to cultural traditions and embracing personal choices influenced by modern ideals. The conflict between Nnaemeka and his father, who strongly believes in the importance of adhering to traditional customs, reflects the struggle between generational values and changing societal norms.
Generational Conflict: The story explores the conflict that arises when generations hold differing views on cultural practices and expectations. Nnaemeka's father, Okeke, is deeply rooted in traditional values and cannot accept the idea of his son marrying outside their ethnic group. This generational gap leads to a strained relationship between Nnaemeka and Okeke, as they struggle to reconcile their differing perspectives on love, marriage, and identity.
Love and Personal Choice: At its core, the story is about love and the right to make personal choices in matters of the heart. Nnaemeka and Nene's love challenges the preconceived notions of cultural compatibility, demonstrating that love can transcend ethnic boundaries. Their choice to marry based on their feelings for each other rather than conforming to traditional expectations highlights the significance of individual agency in matters of marriage and relationships.
Identity and Belonging: The story delves into questions of identity and belonging, especially in a multicultural and diverse society. Nnaemeka and Nene's marriage prompts them to navigate issues of identity as they negotiate their roles within their families and communities. It also raises questions about the fluidity of identity and how people can find a sense of belonging even when they are part of different cultural backgrounds.
Communication and Reconciliation: Throughout the story, there is a theme of communication and the possibility of reconciliation. Nnaemeka's decision to write a letter to his father, explaining his choice and seeking understanding, reflects the importance of open communication in bridging gaps between generations and resolving conflicts. This theme highlights the potential for growth and reconciliation when individuals are willing to communicate and empathize with one another.
In summary,"Marriage Is a Private Affair" by Chinua Achebe explores themes of cultural clash, generational conflict, the tension between tradition and modernity, the power of love and personal choice, identity and belonging, and the significance of communication and reconciliation. Through the characters' struggles and decisions, the story offers insights into the complexities of navigating cultural differences and the evolving nature of societal norms.
Ques 3. Write a critical summary of story "The Verger".
"The Verger" is a short story written by W. Somerset Maugham that centers on Albert Edward Foreman, a man who unexpectedly rises above societal expectations despite lacking formal education. Through the tale of the verger, Maugham explores themes of individualism, innovation, and the limitations of conventional norms.
The story opens with the unexpected termination of Albert's employment as the verger of St. Peter's Church due to his inability to read and write. His dismissal comes as a shock, but Albert quickly capitalizes on his situation by opening a tobacco shop. This unanticipated transition serves as a springboard for Maugham's exploration of the power of unconventional paths and the subversion of societal expectations.
Maugham's depiction of Albert Foreman challenges the conventional notion that formal education is a prerequisite for success. Albert is portrayed as diligent, observant, and resourceful – qualities that enable him to transform his misfortune into an opportunity. This portrayal criticizes the rigidity of the education system and highlights the potential for success even without formal schooling.
Through Albert's journey, the story also addresses the theme of innovation. Albert's tobacco shop becomes a thriving enterprise, not because of his literary prowess, but due to his business acumen and ability to meet the demands of the market. This narrative emphasizes the importance of adaptability, creative problem-solving, and an entrepreneurial spirit as means of achieving success, echoing the broader societal shift towards valuing innovation and practical skills.
Additionally, "The Verger" provides commentary on the rigid social hierarchies that persist within communities. Albert's unexpected success causes discomfort among the church officials who initially dismissed him. Their judgmental attitudes highlight the tendency to underestimate individuals who do not fit conventional molds. The story serves as a critique of societal prejudices and demonstrates how accomplishments can redefine an individual's worth.
Maugham's narrative also underscores the theme of self-discovery and personal agency. Albert's decision to open the tobacco shop symbolizes his newfound independence and the realization of his potential. His transformation challenges the restrictive roles society assigns to individuals and encourages readers to question the limitations they place on themselves and others.
In terms of structure, "The Verger" is succinct and elegantly written, with Maugham's prose conveying the story's underlying themes with subtlety. The dialogue and interactions among characters provide insight into the social dynamics of the time and contribute to the story's message of breaking free from preconceived notions.
In conclusion, "The Verger" by W. Somerset Maugham is a concise yet thought-provoking story that challenges conventional norms and expectations. Through Albert Foreman's journey from a verger to a successful tobacco shop owner, Maugham explores themes of individualism, innovation, the limitations of education, and the potential for personal agency. The story's relevance endures as it encourages readers to question societal norms, embrace their unique abilities, and recognize that success can arise from unexpected sources.
Ques 4. Describe the character of Rahim Khan from the story "The Sparrow"?
Rahim Khan is a significant character in the story "The Sparrow" by K. A. Abbas. He is portrayed as a 50-year-old Muslim man who works as a farmer, emphasizing his physical strength and resilience despite his age. While his physical appearance suggests a robust and powerful individual, his personality is marked by a distinct duality.
On one hand, Rahim Khan possesses a tall and strong build, indicating his physical prowess and the demanding nature of his profession as a farmer. This suggests that he is hardworking and has the ability to endure challenges, which aligns with the image of someone who labors in the fields and deals with the demands of agricultural work.
However, Rahim Khan's physical strength contrasts starkly with his behavior towards his wife. The story reveals that he treats his wife with cruelty, showcasing a dark and troubling aspect of his character. This cruelty creates a sense of fear and resentment among those who interact with him, contributing to a negative perception of him within the society. The fact that some people fear him and others dislike him due to his mistreatment of his wife indicates the significant impact his behavior has on his relationships and the overall atmosphere within the community.
As a character, Rahim Khan embodies complexities that extend beyond his physical appearance. He serves as a representation of the multifaceted nature of human beings – capable of both strength and cruelty, resilience and harm. The theme of cruelty is central to his character, and his interactions with others likely play a pivotal role in the story's exploration of human behavior, relationships, and the consequences of one's actions.
Major character of Rahim Khan:
1.Physical Appearance and Professional Background:Rahim Khan is introduced as a 50-year-old Muslim man who earns his living as a farmer. Despite his age, he is depicted as having a tall and robust physique. This physical description reflects his physical strength and endurance, which are likely attributes developed from years of working the land. His occupation as a farmer further emphasizes his connection to the land and his role as a laborer.
2.Inner Duality:
Beneath Rahim Khan's outward appearance of strength and resilience lies an inner duality that shapes his interactions and relationships. This duality hints at the complexity of his character and the multifaceted nature of human behavior.
3.Cruelty and Relationships:
One of the most prominent aspects of Rahim Khan's character is his treatment of his wife. Despite his physical strength, he exhibits cruelty towards her. This cruelty is marked by mistreatment and possibly abuse, which stands in stark contrast to his external appearance. This element of his personality contributes significantly to the narrative's exploration of themes such as cruelty, domestic dynamics, and the impact of one's actions on relationships.
4.Fear and Resentment:
Rahim Khan's behavior has far-reaching consequences within the society depicted in the story. As a result of his cruel treatment of his wife, he becomes a source of fear and resentment among those who interact with him. People in the community are afraid of him, likely due to his unpredictable and harsh behavior. Others openly dislike him, suggesting that his actions and reputation have created a lasting impact on their perceptions of him.
4.Symbolism and Commentary:
Rahim Khan's character might serve as a symbolic representation of the complexities of human nature. His juxtaposition of physical strength and emotional cruelty highlights the disparity between outward appearances and inner qualities. This contrast could serve as a commentary on the challenges of understanding and judging individuals solely based on their external attributes.
5.Narrative Purpose: Rahim Khan's role in the story might extend beyond his individual traits. His character could play a pivotal role in driving the narrative forward, sparking conflict and influencing the actions and decisions of other characters. The themes of cruelty, fear, resentment, and the complexities of human behavior could all be intertwined with his character's development and interactions. In conclusion, Rahim Khan is a significant and multi-dimensional character in "The Sparrow" by K. A. Abbas. His physical strength and resilience are contrasted with his inner duality marked by cruelty and mistreatment towards his wife. This duality contributes to themes of cruelty, fear, resentment, and the complexities of human behavior, creating a character who not only shapes the story's dynamics but also offers insight into the intricacies of human nature.
Ques 5. Why does john ignore his father in the story "The Snob"? Discuss.
"The Snob" is a short story written by Morley Callaghan. In this story, John ignores his father due to his desire to impress his new acquaintance, Mary Fortune. John's actions reflect his insecurity and the lengths he's willing to go to fit in with a higher social circle. Let's delve into the reasons why John ignores his father in the story:
1. Social Aspirations and Insecurity: John is initially introduced as someone who desires to move up the social ladder. He is eager to befriend Mary Fortune, who is from a more privileged background. John's insecurity about his own social status drives him to act in ways that he believes will impress Mary and her family. He perceives his father's behavior as embarrassing and fears that it might hinder his chances of gaining acceptance among his new acquaintances.
2. Desire for Approval: John's desire for approval, particularly from Mary Fortune, becomes a significant driving force. He wants to be perceived as sophisticated and refined by Mary and her family. In his mind, distancing himself from his father's less refined behavior is a means to secure that approval.
3. Peer Pressure and Image Management: John's willingness to ignore his father is also influenced by the social pressure to conform to the norms of the upper class. He believes that aligning himself with Mary and her family's standards will enhance his image. In this pursuit, he isolates himself from his father, fearing that his father's actions might tarnish the image he's trying to project.
4. The Allure of Prestige: John is enticed by the prestige associated with Mary's social circle. He believes that associating with her will elevate his own social standing and grant him access to a world he aspires to be part of. In his eyes, his father's lack of sophistication and his working-class background clash with this desired image of prestige.
5. Youthful Idealism: John's actions are also reflective of youthful idealism and naivety. He is caught up in the allure of a new social environment and is willing to make sacrifices, including distancing himself from his own family, in pursuit of his aspirations. This idealism blinds him to the potential consequences of his actions.
In summary, John ignores his father in "The Snob" due to his strong desire to impress Mary Fortune and fit into her social circle. This desire is rooted in his insecurity, a longing for approval, the pressure to manage his image, the allure of prestige, and his youthful idealism. His actions showcase the internal conflict he faces between his aspirations and his loyalty to his family, ultimately revealing the complexities of human behavior and the influence of social dynamics.
