BEGC – 101 Solved Assignment
Section A
Answer with reference to the context in about 100 words each:
Answer with reference to the context in about 100 words each:
(i) "That first creator of the Creator That Bearer of oblations offered with Holy Rites: That one who utters the Holy Chants: Those two that order Time: That which extends,"
(ii) "Now I see no other course open but the fourth-punishment. The kings are marching to Kurukshetra to their doom!"
(iii) "This music hall is empty! Where could the actors have gone? (reflecting) Ah! I got it!-The home of a sonless person is empty; he who doesn’t have a real friend finds all the time empty; the quarters are empty to a fool; and everything is empty to a poor man."
(iv) "One saw the fine work of making
Cloth from silk, fur and cotton
In the weavers quarters. Silk, coral,
Sandalwood, agar, flawless pearls,
Gems, gold, and an endless profusion
Of rare ornaments were piled high
In the commodious streets."
(ii) "Now I see no other course open but the fourth-punishment. The kings are marching to Kurukshetra to their doom!"
(iii) "This music hall is empty! Where could the actors have gone? (reflecting) Ah! I got it!-The home of a sonless person is empty; he who doesn’t have a real friend finds all the time empty; the quarters are empty to a fool; and everything is empty to a poor man."
(iv) "One saw the fine work of making
Cloth from silk, fur and cotton
In the weavers quarters. Silk, coral,
Sandalwood, agar, flawless pearls,
Gems, gold, and an endless profusion
Of rare ornaments were piled high
In the commodious streets."
Section B
Answer the following in about
Answer the following in about
- Examine the theme of concealment in Abhijnana Shakuntalam/The Loom of Time.
- Why does Duryodhana plot and plan to vanquish the Pandavas? Comment.
- How are the views of the state integrated with the theme of Mrichchhkatika?
- Write a detailed note on akam and puram thinais and their corresponding landscapes in Cilappatikaran.
Expert Answer
Section A
Answer with reference to the context in about 100 words each:
Question:-1
(i) "That first creator of the Creator That Bearer of oblations offered with Holy Rites: That one who utters the Holy Chants: Those two that order Time: That which extends,"
Answer:
1. Explanation of the Passage:
- The passage speaks of a powerful, divine figure who is considered the source and creator of the Creator. This figure is described as the one who offers sacred rites and chants, symbolizing the act of creation and spiritual rituals. The passage also refers to two entities that govern time, suggesting a role in maintaining the structure of existence.
2. Analysis of Literary Devices:
- Metaphor: The term "first creator of the Creator" is a metaphor for the highest divine force, implying a source beyond the Creator itself.
- Symbolism: "Holy Rites" and "Holy Chants" symbolize sacred rituals and the spiritual communication with the divine. "Order Time" represents the governance of cosmic and natural laws.
- Imagery: The passage evokes a vivid sense of the divine through the use of spiritual language, emphasizing the sacred and profound nature of the actions described.
3. Interpretation and Themes:
- The passage explores themes of divinity, creation, and the eternal nature of time. It suggests the existence of a higher power that not only creates but also controls the essence of rituals and the flow of time.
- It hints at the interconnectedness of the divine and the cosmic order, emphasizing the sanctity of both the ritual and the natural laws.
4. Personal Response:
- The passage evokes a sense of reverence and awe. The portrayal of the divine as both the origin of the Creator and the controller of time suggests a vast, incomprehensible power that governs all aspects of existence.
5. Conclusion:
- This passage reflects on the ineffable nature of divine authority and creation. It uses sacred imagery to express the connection between spiritual rites, the cosmos, and the infinite. It invites contemplation of the vastness of the divine order.
(ii) "Now I see no other course open but the fourth-punishment. The kings are marching to Kurukshetra to their doom!"
Answer:
1. Explanation of the Passage:
- The speaker in this passage is contemplating a dire situation, realizing that no option remains except for the harshest consequence—punishment. The mention of "the kings marching to Kurukshetra to their doom" references the inevitable destruction that awaits them, symbolizing the futility of their actions. This reflects a sense of doom and finality in the face of a tragic outcome.
2. Analysis of Literary Devices:
- Foreshadowing: The reference to "their doom" hints at the impending downfall, creating a sense of inevitability and setting the stage for the destructive events that will follow.
- Symbolism: Kurukshetra, often associated with the great battle in the Mahabharata, symbolizes a place of conflict and death, emphasizing the destructive nature of the kings’ choices.
- Metaphor: The "fourth-punishment" serves as a metaphor for the final, inescapable consequence that the speaker sees as the only way forward.
3. Interpretation and Themes:
- The passage explores themes of fate, consequence, and the inevitability of suffering. The "fourth-punishment" suggests that actions have irreversible outcomes, and the march of the kings to their doom signifies the destructive force of unchecked power and pride.
- This reflects the broader theme of moral conflict, where the characters are trapped by their own decisions, leading to destruction.
4. Personal Response:
- The passage evokes a sense of inevitability and tragedy. The notion that no other course remains but punishment reflects a deep sense of regret and sorrow. It makes me think about the consequences of actions, especially when driven by pride or ambition, and how they can lead to irreversible outcomes.
5. Conclusion:
- This passage reflects on the consequences of actions and the inevitable path towards destruction. It highlights the theme of fate and the tragic inevitability of certain outcomes, reminding us of the importance of moral choices and the potential consequences of our decisions.
(iii) "This music hall is empty! Where could the actors have gone? (reflecting) Ah! I got it!-The home of a sonless person is empty; he who doesn’t have a real friend finds all the time empty; the quarters are empty to a fool; and everything is empty to a poor man."
Answer:
1. Explanation of the Passage:
- The speaker observes the emptiness of a music hall and questions the absence of actors. Upon reflecting, they come to a realization that emptiness extends beyond the physical world to deeper aspects of life. The passage suggests that a sonless person’s home feels empty, as does the life of someone without true friends or wealth. The emptiness is symbolic of a lack of fulfillment and meaningful connections.
2. Analysis of Literary Devices:
- Metaphor: The "empty" music hall symbolizes a lack of purpose or fulfillment. This metaphor extends to the home of a sonless person, the life of someone without a real friend, or the existence of a fool or poor man.
- Symbolism: The empty hall and home symbolize the void felt in the absence of familial ties, true companionship, wisdom, or material wealth. The idea of emptiness is used to express the inner void these individuals experience.
- Juxtaposition: The passage contrasts physical emptiness with emotional and existential emptiness, highlighting how these are interconnected.
3. Interpretation and Themes:
- The passage explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the deeper existential void that people experience when they lack meaningful relationships, purpose, or resources. It emphasizes how emotional fulfillment and connections are as significant as material wealth.
- It speaks to the broader human condition, suggesting that no matter how rich or surrounded by people one may be, true fulfillment comes from meaningful connections and purpose.
4. Personal Response:
- The passage resonates with the idea that emotional fulfillment is essential for a meaningful life. It reminds me that true wealth is found not in material possessions but in relationships and the depth of personal connections. It evokes a sense of empathy for those who feel alone or disconnected in their lives.
5. Conclusion:
- The passage underscores the significance of human connections and emotional fulfillment. It uses the metaphor of emptiness to convey the deeper void experienced when one lacks meaningful relationships or purpose. Ultimately, the passage serves as a reminder of the importance of love, friendship, and self-worth in achieving a fulfilling life.
(iv) "One saw the fine work of making Cloth from silk, fur and cotton In the weavers quarters. Silk, coral, Sandalwood, agar, flawless pearls, Gems, gold, and an endless profusion Of rare ornaments were piled high In the commodious streets."
Answer:
1. Explanation of the Passage:
- The passage describes a scene in the weavers’ quarters, where the speaker observes the intricate and skilled work involved in creating textiles from silk, fur, and cotton. These materials, along with precious items such as silk, coral, sandalwood, agar, pearls, gems, and gold, are depicted as abundant and plentiful in the streets, creating a sense of opulence and luxury.
2. Analysis of Literary Devices:
- Imagery: The passage uses vivid imagery to depict the rich and colorful scene, including references to silk, gold, and precious gems. This imagery evokes a sense of grandeur and wealth.
- List of Luxurious Items: The enumeration of precious materials (e.g., silk, pearls, gold) emphasizes the abundance and richness of the scene, creating a vision of a thriving, prosperous environment.
- Symbolism: The materials mentioned symbolize wealth, craftsmanship, and the beauty of human skill. They also reflect cultural and economic prosperity.
3. Interpretation and Themes:
- The passage reflects themes of wealth, craftsmanship, and luxury. The presence of such rare and valuable items suggests a society that is thriving economically and culturally, with a deep appreciation for fine workmanship.
- It also highlights the contrast between the laborious and skillful creation of textiles and the extravagant wealth displayed in the streets, possibly commenting on the disparity between work and its rewards.
4. Personal Response:
- The passage evokes a sense of admiration for the artisans and their craft, as well as awe at the abundance of wealth. It reminds me of the importance of craftsmanship and the cultural value placed on material luxury in certain societies.
5. Conclusion:
- This passage underscores the relationship between skillful labor and wealth, showing how the fruits of hard work can manifest in the form of luxury and opulence. It emphasizes the prosperity of the community and the beauty of their craftsmanship, while also offering a glimpse into the material culture of the time.
Section B
Answer the following in about 350 words each:
Question:-2
Examine the theme of concealment in Abhijnana Shakuntalam/The Loom of Time.
Answer:
1. Introduction to Concealment in Abhijnana Shakuntalam
The theme of concealment plays a significant role in Abhijnana Shakuntalam (also known as The Loom of Time) by Kalidasa. The story follows the life of Shakuntala, a beautiful woman who is separated from her husband, King Dushyanta, due to a curse. The motif of concealment appears through various facets of the narrative, from hidden identities to concealed emotions and memories. This theme of concealment is not only central to the plot but also acts as a catalyst for the drama’s unfolding events, which ultimately lead to revelation, recognition, and reunion.
2. Concealment of Identity
One of the most prominent forms of concealment in Abhijnana Shakuntalam is the concealment of identity. Shakuntala, born of a sage and raised in the hermitage of Sage Kanva, remains unaware of her royal lineage. Her identity is hidden from her until the recognition scene with King Dushyanta. This concealed identity creates dramatic tension in the narrative, as it is only revealed later that Shakuntala is the daughter of a royal family. Similarly, King Dushyanta’s forgetfulness, caused by the curse, prevents him from recognizing Shakuntala despite their previous bond. The concealment of identity adds layers of complexity to their relationship and creates an emotional distance that the characters must overcome.
3. Concealment of Emotions
In addition to the physical concealment of identities, Abhijnana Shakuntalam also explores the concealment of emotions. Both Shakuntala and Dushyanta experience internal struggles that are hidden from each other. Shakuntala’s love for the king is apparent, but her emotions are overshadowed by the uncertainty of their relationship and the curse that causes Dushyanta’s forgetfulness. Dushyanta, too, suppresses his feelings due to the curse and his subsequent failure to recognize Shakuntala. The concealment of emotions adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, as both characters are forced to navigate their love through layers of misunderstanding and emotional repression.
4. Concealment of Truth and Memory
The theme of concealed memories plays an integral role in the narrative structure. King Dushyanta’s forgetfulness of his marriage with Shakuntala, brought on by the curse of Sage Durvasa, creates a situation where the truth is concealed. This memory lapse serves as a pivotal element of the plot, as the king’s inability to recall Shakuntala leads to their separation. It is only through external forces, such as the ring that Shakuntala has left behind, that the truth is finally uncovered. The concealment of memory is linked to fate, as the characters are forced to confront and resolve the concealed aspects of their past in order to achieve a reunion.
5. Conclusion
In Abhijnana Shakuntalam, Kalidasa intricately weaves the theme of concealment into the fabric of the narrative, exploring hidden identities, emotions, and memories. These concealed elements are central to the drama’s progression, creating tension and conflict that ultimately lead to resolution and reconciliation. The theme of concealment highlights the complexities of human relationships and emphasizes the importance of recognition and understanding in love and life. Through the characters’ journey of uncovering hidden truths, the play speaks to the universal human experience of discovery, reunion, and the overcoming of obstacles to love and happiness.
Question:-3
Why does Duryodhana plot and plan to vanquish the Pandavas? Comment.
Answer:
1. Introduction to Duryodhana’s Hatred
Duryodhana’s desire to vanquish the Pandavas is rooted in a deep sense of resentment and jealousy. As the eldest son of Dhritarashtra, the king of the Kuru dynasty, Duryodhana feels entitled to the throne, but his path to kingship is challenged by his cousins, the Pandavas. His animosity toward the Pandavas, particularly Yudhishthira, stems from a combination of personal rivalry, political power struggles, and family dynamics. This deep-seated bitterness gradually transforms into a desire for the complete destruction of the Pandavas, leading him to plot and scheme their downfall throughout the epic.
2. Duryodhana’s Insecurity and Jealousy
At the heart of Duryodhana’s plotting lies his overwhelming jealousy of the Pandavas, especially their moral superiority and popularity among the people. The Pandavas are virtuous, brave, and admired by the people, which makes Duryodhana feel insecure about his own position. His jealousy intensifies when Yudhishthira, despite being the elder of the Pandavas, is designated as the heir to the throne. Duryodhana’s insecurities further fuel his desire to destroy the Pandavas, as he views them as rivals who pose a direct threat to his ambition for the throne of Hastinapura.
3. The Influence of Shakuni
Another key factor that drives Duryodhana’s plotting is his close relationship with his uncle, Shakuni. Shakuni harbors personal grievances against the Kuru dynasty and manipulates Duryodhana to fulfill his own vendetta. Shakuni’s cunning and deceitful nature greatly influences Duryodhana, encouraging him to engage in immoral actions to achieve his goal. Shakuni’s schemes, including the infamous game of dice that leads to the Pandavas’ exile, provide Duryodhana with the means to further his desire to vanquish the Pandavas. Shakuni’s constant instigation of Duryodhana’s hatred pushes him toward increasingly sinister tactics.
4. Political and Dynastic Rivalry
Duryodhana’s political ambition is another significant reason for his desire to vanquish the Pandavas. He sees the Pandavas not just as rivals for the throne, but as obstacles to his vision of an unchallenged rule over the Kuru dynasty. His ambition is to control the kingdom and ensure that no other branch of the family holds power. This dynastic rivalry intensifies after the Pandavas’ return from exile, when Duryodhana feels that their claim to the throne is even more legitimate. His plans to take the throne, combined with his growing resentment, make him relentless in his efforts to remove the Pandavas from the picture.
5. Conclusion
Duryodhana’s plotting and planning to vanquish the Pandavas are driven by a mix of jealousy, insecurity, political ambition, and the negative influence of his uncle, Shakuni. His deep-seated animosity is rooted in his belief that the Pandavas, with their moral superiority and rightful claim to the throne, are standing in the way of his ambitions. Duryodhana’s desire for power leads him to engage in deceitful and underhanded schemes that ultimately contribute to the great war of Kurukshetra. His plans reveal the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the corrosive impact of jealousy and rivalry.
Question:-4
How are the views of the state integrated with the theme of Mrichchhkatika?
Answer:
1. Introduction to the State’s Role in Mrichchhkatika
The play Mrichchhkatika (The Little Clay Cart) by Shudraka integrates the views of the state within its broader themes of love, social class, and morality. The play, set in ancient India, portrays the complex dynamics of a royal kingdom where the state and its rulers play an influential role in shaping the social and political environment. The views of the state are woven into the narrative, particularly through its representation of power, justice, and the role of rulers in the lives of their subjects. These views are not just political but reflect a larger ethical dimension that influences the characters and their actions.
2. The Representation of Royalty and Power
The state in Mrichchhkatika is represented primarily through the figure of King Palaka, who embodies the authority of the ruler. His decisions and actions are central to the unfolding drama. The king is portrayed as being concerned with maintaining order and justice within his kingdom, but his actions also reflect the vulnerabilities and contradictions inherent in the exercise of power. His interactions with the common people and his eventual realization of the value of justice highlight the tension between royal power and the needs of the people. This dynamic illustrates how the state, while an instrument of authority, is also susceptible to the moral and ethical failings of its rulers.
3. Social Hierarchies and Justice
The theme of justice is closely tied to the state’s role in the play. The state, as represented by its rulers and lawgivers, plays a pivotal role in enforcing social order. The class divisions and the relationship between the ruling elite and commoners are explored through the characters’ interactions. The protagonist, Charudatta, a Brahmin, and Vasantika, a courtesan, are both caught in the constraints of the social hierarchy. Charudatta’s desire to remain honorable despite his poverty and Vasantika’s struggle to maintain her dignity, despite her position as a courtesan, reflect the tension between personal virtue and the state-imposed social norms.
4. The Role of Law and Morality
In Mrichchhkatika, the state’s views are also reflected in the moral conflicts that arise when individuals must navigate the laws of the land versus their personal desires. The character of Shakara, the merchant, and his involvement in the political intrigue point to the exploitation of the state’s legal system for personal gain. The play critiques the state’s legal system by showing how it can be manipulated, suggesting that justice is often an illusion when the system is swayed by wealth and power. This theme is integrated with the broader narrative, which questions the true nature of justice and the morality of the rulers who enforce it.
5. Conclusion
The views of the state in Mrichchhkatika are intricately connected with the play’s exploration of love, class, and morality. Through the character of King Palaka, the play reflects on the role of rulers in shaping the ethical climate of the kingdom. The state’s laws and their impact on social justice are central to the plot, and the characters’ struggles highlight the tension between individual desires and the rigid structures imposed by the state. The play critiques the state’s authority, using it as a backdrop for exploring the complex relationship between power, justice, and morality.
Question:-5
Write a detailed note on akam and puram thinais and their corresponding landscapes in Cilappatikaran.
Answer:
1. Introduction to Akam and Puram in Cilappatikaran
In Cilappatikaran, an ancient Tamil epic written by Ilango Adigal, the concepts of Akam and Puram are crucial to understanding the emotional and thematic depth of the work. These two terms represent different thematic categories and the landscapes associated with them, which help delineate the emotional states and narrative arcs of the characters. Akam refers to the inner world of love, personal emotions, and relationships, while Puram represents the external world, especially the realm of war, politics, and social interactions. The landscapes associated with these two elements are intricately woven into the fabric of the narrative, serving as metaphors for the psychological and societal dimensions of the epic.
2. Akam Thinais: The Inner Landscape
The Akam thinais, or the inner world of the characters, is primarily concerned with love, emotional conflict, and personal relationships. The landscape of Akam is symbolic of the psychological and emotional states of the protagonists, especially the feelings of longing, separation, and desire. The primary setting for the Akam thinais is the private, domestic space—such as the home or the secluded forest areas—where the intimate emotional connections between lovers are explored. This realm is marked by feelings of devotion and the personal struggles that arise from love and separation. The natural surroundings, such as gardens, rivers, and forests, play a significant role in the Akam thinais, serving as metaphors for the emotional turbulence and longing felt by the characters. For example, in the story of Kannagi and Kovalan, their love and the emotional landscape they traverse are often depicted against the backdrop of nature, symbolizing their emotional states.
3. Puram Thinais: The External Landscape
In contrast, Puram thinais focuses on the external world of social life, war, politics, and heroism. The Puram landscapes are associated with public spaces such as battlefields, courts, and marketplaces, where the forces of war, honor, and social reputation are in play. The external world of Puram is filled with challenges and moral dilemmas, where individuals engage in actions that are recognized and judged by society. This realm is linked to heroism, the pursuit of glory, and the struggles of war and politics. Puram thinais reveals the complex interplay between individual desires and the societal demands of honor and status. It is in this domain that the central conflicts of Cilappatikaran unfold, particularly in the political and legal struggles surrounding the life of Kovalan, Kannagi’s husband. The landscape in Puram is often depicted as cities, temples, courts, and battlefields, emphasizing the harsh realities of social life and external pressures.
4. Interplay of Akam and Puram in Cilappatikaran
The interplay between Akam and Puram thinais is fundamental to the structure of Cilappatikaran. While Akam explores the emotional, personal dimensions of the characters’ lives, Puram focuses on the broader, societal forces that shape their fates. The tension between these two landscapes is evident throughout the epic, especially in the character arcs of Kannagi and Kovalan. The internal emotional struggles in Akam are contrasted against the societal pressures and conflicts in Puram, creating a narrative that moves between the personal and the public spheres. The climax of the epic, where Kannagi’s quest for justice leads her to confront the ruling authorities, represents the ultimate collision between the Akam and Puram landscapes.
5. Conclusion
In Cilappatikaran, the concepts of Akam and Puram thinais serve as the foundation for understanding the emotional and social dynamics of the characters. These two thematic landscapes—representing the inner world of love and emotions and the external world of politics and society—are intricately intertwined, providing depth and richness to the narrative. The interaction between these two realms enhances the epic’s exploration of human relationships, societal expectations, and the conflict between personal desires and social responsibilities. By using the symbolism of these landscapes, Cilappatikaran presents a nuanced portrayal of the human experience, where love, justice, and societal duty are constantly in tension.
