On the Face of It (CBL)

By Susan Hill

Notable Features of the Play

• The play is structured as a continuous dialogue between two characters. The uninterrupted dialogue sequence enhances the realism of their interaction. No narrator scanty stage directions NOT to influence the interpretation.

• The language is simple and direct, which makes the characters’ emotions and thoughts accessible.

• Conversational language: incomplete sentences, interruptions, and colloquial expressions, contractions and fragmented sentences ("Tin doesn’t hurt, boy!" "When it came off, did it?").

• Mr. Lamb uses more philosophical and reflective language, (“It doesn’t signify.”). Derry’s simpler vocabulary.

• Key themes: Identity, Perception, & Acceptance

• Dramatic Devices: Monologues, Symbolism, & Irony

• The use of ellipses (…) in the dialogue indicates pauses, trailing off of thoughts, and unspoken emotions. Derry’s: Hesitation, Inner Conflict, Emotional Pain

DIALOGUE ANALYSIS

Read the Extract

1. DERRY: I won’t ever look different. When I’m as old as you, I’ll look the same. I’ll still only have half a face.

1. MR LAMB: So you will. But the world won’t. The world’s got a whole face, and the world’s there to be looked at.

2. DERRY: Do you think this is the world? This old garden?

2. MR LAMB: When I’m here. Not the only one. But the world, as much as anywhere.

3. DERRY: Does your leg hurt you?

3. MR LAMB: Tin doesn’t hurt, boy!

4. DERRY: When it came off, did it?

4. MR LAMB: Certainly.

5. DERRY: And now? I mean, where the tin stops, at the top?

5. MR LAMB: Now and then. In wet weather. It doesn’t signify.

Analyse the dialogues of Derry in the above extract. Fill in the blank cells.

Dialogue	Character Traits / Tone	Mental Condition
1		Derry is struggling with self-acceptance and is fixated on his appearance. He feels hopeless about his future.
2	Curious, skeptical
3		Derry shows empathy and is trying to connect with Mr. Lamb by understanding his pain.
4	Curious, empathetic
5		Derry continues to show concern, indicating his growing interest in Mr. Lamb's experiences and feelings.

Analyse the dialogues of Mr. Lamb in the above extract. Fill in the blank cells.

Dialogue	Character Traits / Tone	Mental Condition
1		Mr. Lamb tries to broaden Derry's perspective, encouraging him to look beyond his physical appearance.
2	Content, philosophical, reflective
3		Mr. Lamb uses humor to address Derry's concern, indicating his practical approach to life.
4	Honest, straightforward
5		Mr. Lamb tries to broaden Derry's perspective, encouraging him to look beyond his physical appearance.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. Explain how Mr. Lamb’s garden acts as a metaphor for his outlook on life. How does he use the garden to convey his thoughts to Derry?

Answer: Mr. Lamb’s garden, filled with diverse plants and flowers, symbolizes his acceptance of life’s differences and imperfections. He uses the garden to show Derry that beauty and value exist in all forms, and that one should embrace life with its variety, just as he nurtures his garden.

2. Imagine Derry’s life a few years after meeting Mr. Lamb. How might his interaction with Mr. Lamb influence his future relationships and self-perception?

Answer: Derry’s interaction with Mr. Lamb would likely lead him to develop more confidence and self-acceptance. He might begin to engage more openly with others, valuing relationships over superficial judgments. His future relationships would be shaped by the empathy and understanding he learned from Mr. Lamb.

3. Describe how Mr. Lamb’s philosophy of life could be applied by individuals to overcome personal challenges in today’s world.

Answer: Mr. Lamb’s philosophy of embracing life’s imperfections can help individuals today to accept their flaws and focus on the positive aspects of life. By shifting their perspective, people can overcome challenges such as low self-esteem, social isolation, and fear of judgment, leading to a more fulfilling life.

4. Critically evaluate the impact of Derry’s mother on his self-esteem. Do you think her protective nature helps or hinders Derry?

Answer: Derry’s mother, though protective, unintentionally reinforces his insecurities by focusing on his disfigurement. Her overprotectiveness hinders his growth by keeping him isolated, preventing him from interacting with others and developing the self-confidence he needs to face the world.

5. Analyze the contrast between Derry’s perception of himself and Mr. Lamb’s perception of Derry. How does this contrast drive the narrative?

Answer: Derry sees himself as ugly and worthless due to his scarred face, whereas Mr. Lamb sees him as a whole person with potential. This contrast drives the narrative by highlighting the transformative impact of Mr. Lamb’s positive outlook on Derry, leading to Derry’s gradual change in self-perception.

6. What can be inferred about Mr. Lamb’s past from his attitude towards life and his interactions with Derry? Support your answer with examples from the text.

Answer: It can be inferred that Mr. Lamb has faced his own share of hardships, likely related to his disability, yet he has chosen to live a life of acceptance and optimism. His cheerful demeanor and welcoming nature suggest that he has learned to find joy in life despite his struggles, as seen in his interactions with Derry.

7. Interpret the significance of Mr. Lamb’s statement, “It’s all relative,” in the context of his conversation with Derry. How does this philosophy apply to the events of the chapter?

Answer: Mr. Lamb’s statement, “It’s all relative,” signifies that one’s perception of reality depends on one’s attitude. This philosophy applies to the events of the chapter as it encourages Derry to see his disfigurement not as a defining feature but as one aspect of his life, urging him to focus on what he can do rather than what he lacks.

8. How does the ending of the play reflect the central themes of loneliness and acceptance? Discuss the significance of Mr. Lamb’s fate in the narrative.

Answer: The ending reflects loneliness as Derry returns to find Mr. Lamb dead, symbolizing the ultimate isolation that both characters feared. Mr. Lamb’s death highlights the transient nature of life and the importance of acceptance and human connection, as he had tried to impart to Derry.

9. If you were to write the play in narrative form which point of view, would you choose? Give reason for your choice?

Answer: Narrator's Point of View: The story is told from a third-person omniscient perspective, giving insight into the thoughts and feelings of both Derry and Mr. Lamb. This allows the reader to understand the depth of their conversation and the impact it has on each of them. Through this narrative, the story captures the essence of the play while providing a more detailed exploration of the characters’ inner lives.

Long Answer Type Questions

1. Discuss how the themes of "On the Face of It" can be applied to address issues of discrimination and social isolation in contemporary society. How can the lessons from Mr. Lamb and Derry's interaction be used to promote inclusivity and acceptance in schools and communities? Relate these concepts to your own experiences or observations in life and current global events.

Answer: The themes of "On the Face of It" highlight the harmful effects of discrimination and social isolation, as seen through Derry’s experiences with his disfigurement. In contemporary society, these themes can be applied to combat biases based on appearance, disability, or other differences. Mr. Lamb’s approach of looking beyond the surface and seeing the person as a whole is a lesson that can promote inclusivity and acceptance in schools and communities. By fostering environments where diversity is celebrated and individuals are valued for their unique qualities, society can reduce the stigma associated with being different.

Personally, I have observed how inclusive practices, such as involving everyone in group activities regardless of their abilities, can help break down barriers and build a sense of belonging. On a global scale, movements advocating for the rights of marginalized groups reflect the importance of Mr. Lamb’s message of acceptance. These efforts contribute to a more compassionate world where people are judged by their character rather than their outward appearance.

2. Evaluate the transformation in Derry’s character from the beginning to the end of the play. How does his interaction with Mr. Lamb challenge his preconceived notions about himself and others? Create a brief analysis of how this change can serve as a model for self-acceptance and resilience in the face of adversity. Relate this to a real-world situation where someone overcame a similar struggle.
Answer: At the beginning of the play, Derry is a bitter and withdrawn boy, defined by his scarred face and the judgment he feels from others. His interaction with Mr. Lamb challenges these preconceived notions by showing him that his worth is not determined by his appearance. Mr. Lamb’s acceptance and wisdom encourage Derry to see himself differently, leading to a significant transformation in his character. By the end of the play, Derry begins to embrace life with a new perspective, understanding that he is more than his physical appearance.

This change in Derry serves as a powerful model for self-acceptance and resilience. It demonstrates that with the right guidance and support, individuals can overcome their internalized negativity and build a positive self-image. A real-world example is that of individuals who have survived severe injuries or illnesses and have gone on to live fulfilling lives, despite initial fears of social rejection. Their stories of resilience and self-acceptance are testament to the power of inner strength, much like Derry’s journey in the play.

Mother's Day (CBL)

by J.B. Priestley

Adjectives to describe each main character of the play:

Character	Adjectives
Mrs. Pearson	Submissive, Self-sacrificing, Kind, Passive, Transformative
Mrs. Fitzgerald	Strong-willed, Assertive, Persuasive, Independent, Bold
George Pearson	Dominant, Indifferent, Traditional, Dismissive, Authoritative
Doris Pearson	Spoiled, Self-centered, Dependent, Superficial
Cyril Pearson	Careless, Selfish, Lazy, Unappreciative, Irresponsible

 

Analysis of Dialogues

Character	Dialogue	Tone	Character Trait	Intention
Mrs. Pearson	"I’ll put the kettle on myself. Don’t bother."	Resigned	Submissive, Dutiful	To avoid confrontation and continue her usual role.
Mrs. Fitzgerald	"You ought to let them wait on you for a change."	Assertive	Confident, Independent	To encourage Mrs. Pearson to stand up for herself.
George Pearson	"What’s the matter with you? Have you gone mad?"	Shocked	Authoritative, Controlling	To express disbelief and reassert his authority.
Doris Pearson	"Mother, what’s the matter with you?"	Confused	Dependent, Self-centered	To understand the sudden change in her mother’s behavior.
Cyril Pearson	"It’s not fair. I always do my share of the work."	Defensive	Irresponsible, Justifying	To defend his lack of effort and avoid responsibility.

 

Short Answer Type Questions

1.     What is the central conflict in the play "Mother's Day" by J.B. Priestley?

Answer: The central conflict in "Mother's Day" revolves around Mrs. Pearson, a mother who is taken for granted by her family, and how she, with the help of Mrs. Fitzgerald, asserts her importance in the family, leading to a reversal of roles and attitudes within the household.

2.     What lesson does "Mother’s Day" teach about family relationships?

Answer: "Mother’s Day" teaches that mutual respect, appreciation, and open communication are essential for healthy family relationships. It shows that taking any family member, especially mothers, for granted can lead to dissatisfaction and resentment, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing each other's contributions.

3.     How does the transformation of Mrs. Pearson influence the behavior of her family members?

Answer: Mrs. Pearson's transformation, with the help of Mrs. Fitzgerald, forces her family to recognize their disrespectful and dismissive behavior. The sudden change in her demeanor and assertiveness shocks them, leading to a change in their attitudes as they begin to appreciate and respect her more.

4.    Analyze the role of Mrs. Fitzgerald in the play. How does she contribute to the resolution of the conflict?

Answer: Mrs. Fitzgerald plays a crucial role as the catalyst for change in the play. Her bold personality and the exchange of identities with Mrs. Pearson bring about the necessary confrontation that forces the family to realize their shortcomings, leading to the resolution of the conflict.

5.   How does Doris’s reaction to Mrs. Pearson’s newfound assertiveness reveal her character’s dependency on her mother?

Answer: Doris's shock and dismay at Mrs. Pearson's assertiveness reveal her deep-seated dependency on her mother. Her reliance on Mrs. Pearson for comfort and care becomes evident when her mother’s sudden change disrupts the family’s routine, highlighting the extent to which she takes her mother for granted.

6.     How does the final scene of the play bring closure to the family’s conflicts?

Answer: The final scene of the play brings closure to the family’s conflicts by showing the family’s acceptance of Mrs. Pearson’s assertiveness. The family members’ willingness to listen and make amends reflects their recognition of her value, restoring balance and harmony within the household.

7.   Discuss the transformation of George Pearson’s character throughout the play. How does his attitude change by the end?

Answer: George Pearson’s character transforms from being domineering and dismissive to being more understanding and respectful of his wife. Initially indifferent to her needs, George's attitude changes as he realizes the importance of valuing Mrs. Pearson’s contributions, leading to a more considerate relationship.

8.    Imagine you are a member of Mrs. Pearson’s family. Write a short note apologizing to her and promising to change your behavior.

Answer:

Dear Mum,

I realize now how much you do for us and how little we have shown our appreciation. I am truly sorry for taking you for granted. From now on, I promise to help more around the house and treat you with the respect and love you deserve.

Yours lovingly,

Doris

Long Answer Type Questions

1.     How can the message of the play "Mother's Day" by J.B. Priestley be applied to modern-day family dynamics? Discuss how the play’s exploration of respect and appreciation within the family can be related to your own experiences or observed changes in society.

Answer: The play "Mother’s Day" emphasizes the significance of respect and appreciation within the family, particularly towards mothers who often handle most household responsibilities. In modern-day family dynamics, where roles are increasingly shared between parents, the need for mutual respect is paramount. This play’s message is a reminder that every family member's efforts should be recognized to maintain harmony.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I have observed that families that openly communicate and share responsibilities tend to have stronger bonds. The shift from traditional to more flexible gender roles has led to healthier relationships. The play resonates with these changes, urging us to ensure that no one is taken for granted. Regular expressions of gratitude and acknowledgment can prevent misunderstandings and build a more supportive family environment, aligning with contemporary values of equality and respect.

2.  Analyze the character of Mrs. Pearson in "Mother's Day." How does her transformation challenge traditional gender roles, and what message does this send to contemporary audiences about family dynamics and gender equality?

Answer: Mrs. Pearson’s character in "Mother’s Day" undergoes a significant transformation that challenges traditional gender roles. Initially portrayed as a submissive and self-sacrificing mother, Mrs. Pearson is the embodiment of the stereotypical homemaker, expected to cater to her family’s needs without question. This traditional role confines her to a position of unrecognized labor and emotional support.

However, with Mrs. Fitzgerald’s intervention, Mrs. Pearson transforms into a confident and assertive individual who demands respect and recognition. This change not only disrupts the family’s established dynamics but also challenges the notion that a mother’s primary role is to serve. By asserting her worth, Mrs. Pearson redefines her role within the family, advocating for gender equality and mutual respect.

For contemporary audiences, this transformation sends a powerful message about the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of all family members, regardless of gender. It encourages a more balanced approach to family dynamics, where traditional roles are questioned, and equality is embraced.

The Clause (Before the Topic)

Pre-Chapter

The Clause

Discovering Tut: The Saga Continues (CBL)

Short Answer Type Questions

1. Who was King Tutankhamun, and why is he a significant figure in ancient Egyptian history?

Answer: King Tutankhamun, often referred to as King Tut, was an Egyptian pharaoh of the 18th dynasty who ruled during the New Kingdom. He is significant due to the discovery of his nearly intact tomb, which provided unprecedented insight into ancient Egyptian culture and burial practices.

2. What were the main findings of Howard Carter's discovery of King Tut's tomb in 1922?

Answer: Howard Carter discovered King Tutankhamun's nearly intact tomb in 1922, revealing a treasure trove of artifacts, including the young pharaoh's gold coffin, his death mask, and various items intended for use in the afterlife, sparking global interest in ancient Egypt.

3. What damage did Howard Carter cause to King Tutankhamun's mummy during the excavation?

Answer: Howard Carter caused significant damage to King Tutankhamun's mummy by chiseling it out of the coffin. The hardened resin that glued the mummy to the coffin forced Carter to cut it into pieces to remove it, leading to the dismemberment of the mummy.

4. How did Howard Carter justify his actions in damaging King Tutankhamun's mummy during the excavation?

Answer: Howard Carter defended his actions by arguing that the solidified resin left him no other choice but to cut the mummy to remove it from the coffin. He also feared that leaving the tomb unopened could lead to robbers damaging the mummy in their quest for treasure, further justifying his approach.

5. Analyze the significance of King Tut’s death and the mystery surrounding it in the context of ancient Egyptian history.

Answer: King Tut's death, shrouded in mystery and occurring at a young age, has significant implications for understanding the political and religious upheavals of ancient Egypt, particularly the shift away from Akhenaten's monotheism and the restoration of traditional polytheistic practices.

6. What can be inferred about ancient Egyptian beliefs regarding the afterlife based on the artifacts found in King Tut’s tomb?

Answer: The artifacts, including amulets, food, and furniture, suggest that the ancient Egyptians believed in a well-prepared afterlife, where the deceased would need these items to ensure a comfortable and successful journey to the next world.

7. What can be inferred about the challenges faced by archaeologists in the early 20th century compared to those using modern technology today?

Answer: Early 20th-century archaeologists, like Howard Carter, faced significant challenges, such as limited technology and the risk of damaging artifacts during excavation. In contrast, modern technology, like CT scans and DNA analysis, allows for more precise, non-invasive study, reducing the risk of harm to ancient remains.

8. If you were to design a museum exhibit about King Tut, which artifacts would you include, and why?

Answer: I would include King Tut’s death mask, his gold coffin, the canopic jars, and the painted chest, as these artifacts not only represent the pharaoh's life and death but also provide insight into ancient Egyptian art, beliefs, and burial practices.

9. Evaluate the ethical considerations of removing artifacts from King Tut's tomb and displaying them in museums.

Answer: While displaying King Tut's artifacts in museums allows for public education and appreciation of ancient Egypt, it also raises ethical concerns about the disruption of the pharaoh's burial site and the commercialization of sacred and cultural heritage.

Long Answer Type Questions

Evaluate the significance of King Tutankhamun's tomb discovery in the context of technological advancements in archaeology. How have these developments changed our approach to studying history, and what lessons can we learn from them in preserving cultural heritage?

Answer: The discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb was a milestone in archaeology, offering a rare glimpse into the life and death of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. However, the initial methods of excavation, though groundbreaking at the time, were not as refined as today’s standards, sometimes leading to unintended damage. Technological advancements, such as CT scans and DNA analysis, have since transformed our approach to studying ancient remains, allowing for more precise and non-invasive exploration.

These developments have changed our approach to studying history by enabling a deeper and more respectful understanding of past cultures. They highlight the importance of preserving cultural heritage, not just for academic study but for future generations. The lessons learned from King Tut's discovery underscore the need for continual advancement in technology and methodology in archaeology, ensuring that as we uncover the past, we do so with care and consideration for its enduring legacy.

The Laburnum Top (CBL)

by Ted Hughes

Figures of Speech

Figure of Speech	Example from the Poem	Meaning	Significance
Metaphor	"The whole tree trembles and thrills"	The tree is described as trembling and thrilling, which are human emotions.	Implies the tree comes to life with the arrival of the goldfinch, showing their symbiotic relationship.
Simile	"It is the engine of her family"	The goldfinch is compared to an engine, suggesting its vital role in sustaining its family.	Highlights the goldfinch's importance and the energy it brings to the tree, symbolizing life and activity.
Personification	"The tree trembles and thrills"	The tree is given human characteristics of trembling and thrilling.	Emphasizes the liveliness and energy that the goldfinch brings, making the tree seem alive.
Alliteration	"September sunlight"	Repetition of the 's' sound in "September" and "sunlight."	Creates a soothing, rhythmic effect that reflects the gentle atmosphere of the scene.
Imagery	"The laburnum top is silent, quite still"	Visual imagery describing the stillness and silence of the tree.	Sets a serene and tranquil mood, highlighting the stark contrast when the goldfinch arrives.
Symbolism	The laburnum tree and goldfinch	The tree represents silence and stillness, while the goldfinch symbolizes life and energy.	Reflects the themes of coexistence and the cyclical nature of life, where even the quietest places can be full of life.
Enjambment	The lines flow into each other without punctuation.	Continuation of a sentence without a pause beyond the end of a line.	Creates a sense of continuity and flow, mirroring the seamless interaction between the tree and the bird.
Contrast	"Then sleek as a lizard, and alert and abrupt"	Contrast between the stillness of the tree and the sudden, lively arrival of the bird.	Highlights the dramatic change in the atmosphere when the goldfinch arrives, symbolizing transformation.

Short Answer Type Questions

1. What does the poem "The Laburnum Top" reveal about the relationship between the goldfinch and the laburnum tree?

Answer: The poem illustrates a symbiotic relationship where the goldfinch enlivens the otherwise silent and still laburnum tree. The tree provides shelter and a home for the bird, while the bird brings energy and life to the tree.

2. How does Ted Hughes use imagery to convey the transformation of the laburnum tree in the poem?

Answer: Ted Hughes uses vivid imagery, such as describing the tree as "silent" and "still" before the goldfinch's arrival, and "alive" and "thrilled" after, to depict the tree’s transformation from lifelessness to vitality.

3. Analyze the symbolism of the goldfinch in "The Laburnum Top." What does it represent in the context of the poem?

Answer: The goldfinch symbolizes energy, life, and transformation. It represents the catalyst that brings vitality to the otherwise dormant laburnum tree, suggesting themes of renewal and the interdependence of life.

4. What can be inferred about the poet’s view of nature from the poem "The Laburnum Top"?

Answer: The poet views nature as a dynamic and interconnected system where even the smallest creatures, like the goldfinch, play a crucial role in the cycle of life, suggesting a deep respect for the natural world.

5. How does the poem "The Laburnum Top" reflect the themes of life and death?

Answer: The poem juxtaposes the stillness of the laburnum tree, symbolizing death or dormancy, with the lively arrival of the goldfinch, representing life. This contrast highlights the cyclical nature of life and the constant interplay between life and death in nature.

Long Answer Type Questions

1. How does the poem "The Laburnum Top" by Ted Hughes symbolize the relationship between the body and the soul? Analyze how this relationship is depicted through the imagery and structure of the poem. Relate this symbolism to the broader themes of life and existence.
Answer: In "The Laburnum Top," Ted Hughes skillfully uses the imagery of the laburnum tree and the goldfinch to symbolize the relationship between the body and the soul. The laburnum tree, described as silent and still, can be seen as a metaphor for the body—lifeless and dormant without the presence of the soul. The arrival of the goldfinch, which enlivens the tree with its energy and movement, represents the soul that animates the body and gives it purpose.

The tree, stripped of its leaves and flowers, symbolizes a state of dormancy or lifelessness, much like a body without a soul. The goldfinch’s arrival transforms the tree, infusing it with life, similar to how the soul enlivens the body. The poem's structure, with its shift from stillness to activity, further emphasizes this dynamic relationship.

This depiction resonates with the broader themes of life and existence, highlighting the interdependence of the physical and spiritual aspects of being. Just as the body is incomplete without the soul, the laburnum tree is incomplete without the presence of the goldfinch. The poem invites reflection on the necessity of both body and soul in the experience of life, suggesting that true vitality comes from their harmonious union.

In a broader context, this relationship can be seen as a metaphor for the need to balance the material and spiritual aspects of life, encouraging a deeper understanding of existence as a combination of both physical presence and inner vitality.

2. Analyze the structure of "The Laburnum Top" and discuss how Ted Hughes uses it to enhance the poem's themes. How does the poem’s structure reflect the cycles of life, and what lessons can be drawn from it in relation to the concept of renewal in our lives and societies?
Answer: The structure of "The Laburnum Top" is carefully crafted to enhance its themes of transformation and the cycles of life. The poem is divided into two distinct parts: the first describes the stillness and silence of the laburnum tree, while the second illustrates its awakening with the arrival of the goldfinch. This contrast between the two sections mirrors the cyclical nature of life—dormancy followed by renewal.

Hughes's use of enjambment, where lines flow into one another without pause, mimics the continuous movement and energy brought by the goldfinch, further emphasizing the theme of life’s dynamism. The cyclical structure reflects the natural processes of growth, decay, and rebirth, which can be applied to human experiences of change and renewal.

The poem’s structure teaches us that periods of inactivity or hardship in our lives can be followed by moments of growth and rejuvenation. Similarly, in society, challenges can lead to new beginnings and positive transformations if we embrace the natural cycles of life. The poem encourages resilience and an understanding of the importance of both