The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Class 11 NCERT English provides a clear snapshot of the poem, helping students understand key events, characters, and humour. This guide explains all questions and answers in simple language, making it ideal for Class 11 NCERT exam preparation. Enhance comprehension and revision with this complete English resource.
About the poet:
Vikram Seth is a renowned Indian poet, novelist, and essayist, born in 1952 in Kolkata. He writes in English and is famous for his versatility across poetry, fiction, and non-fiction. His notable works include The Golden Gate, A Suitable Boy, and the humorous poem The Tale of Melon City. Seth’s writing often combines satire, wit, and social commentary, making complex ideas accessible. He has received several awards for his contribution to literature, including the Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi Award.
Hornbill & Snaoshot Class 11 English Solutions NCERT
| The Portrait of a Lady Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| A Photograph Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| We’re Not Afraid to Die… if We Can All Be Together Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| The Laburnum Top Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| The Voice of the Rain Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| The Adventure Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| Silk Road Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| Father to Son Class 11 NCERT (Hornbill) |
| The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse Class 11 NCERT (Snapshot) |
| The Address Class 11 NCERT (Snapshot) |
| Mother’s Day Class 11 NCERT (Snapshot) |
| Birth Class 11 NCERT (Snapshot) |
| The Tale of Melon City Class 11 NCERT (Snapshot) |
Paraphrases
- In the city of which I sing / There was a just and placid King.
→ In this city, the ruler was known to be fair and calm. - The King proclaimed an arch should be / Constructed, that triumphally
→ The King ordered an arch to be built as a symbol of victory. - Would span the major thoroughfare / To edify spectators there.
→ The arch would cover the main road and inspire the people who saw it. - The workmen went and built the thing. / They did so since he was the King.
→ The workers built the arch because the King commanded it. - The King rode down the thoroughfare / To edify spectators there.
→ The King came to see the arch and impress the citizens. - Under the arch he lost his crown. / The arch was built too low. A frown
→ The King’s crown fell off because the arch was too low, and he became upset. - Appeared upon his placid face. / The King said, ‘This is a disgrace.’
→ His calm face now showed anger, and he called it shameful. - The chief of builders will be hanged.’ / The rope and gallows were arranged.
→ The King ordered the head builder to be executed, and preparations began. - The chief of builders was led out. / He passed the King. He gave a shout,
→ The builder was brought forward, but he cried out in protest. - ‘O King, it was the workmen’s fault’ / ‘Oh!’ said the King, and called a halt
→ The builder blamed the workers, so the King stopped the execution. - To the proceedings. Being just / (And placider now) he said, ‘I must
→ Wanting to be fair, the King calmed down and thought again. - Have all the workmen hanged instead.’ / The workmen looked surprised, and said,
→ He decided to execute all workers, but they protested. - ‘O King, you do not realise / The bricks were made of the wrong size.’
→ The workers claimed the fault was with the bricks. - ‘Summon the masons!’ said the King. / The masons stood there quivering.
→ The masons were called, and they trembled with fear. - ‘It was the architect…’, they said, / The architect was summoned.
→ The masons blamed the architect, so he was brought in. - ‘Well, architect,’ said His Majesty. / ‘I do ordain that you shall be
→ The King declared the architect would be punished. - Hanged.’ Said the architect, ‘O King, / You have forgotten one small thing.
→ The architect replied that the King himself had changed the plan. - You made certain amendments to / The plans when I showed them to you.’
→ He reminded the King that he had approved modifications. - The King heard this. The King saw red. / In fact he nearly lost his head;
→ The King grew very angry and almost lost control. - But being a just and placid King / He said, ‘This is a tricky thing.
→ But remembering his image as fair, he reconsidered. - I need some counsel. Bring to me / The wisest man in this country.’
→ He asked for the wisest man’s advice. - The wisest man was found and brought, / Nay, carried, to the Royal Court.
→ An old wise man, unable to walk, was brought in. - He could not walk and could not see, / So old (and therefore wise) was he —
→ He was blind and weak, but considered wise because of age. - But in a quavering voice he said, / ‘The culprit must be punished.
→ In a shaky voice, he said the guilty one must be punished. - Truly, the arch it was that banged / The crown off, and it must be hanged’.
→ He declared the arch was guilty and must be executed. - To the scaffold the arch was led / When suddenly a Councillor said —
→ The arch was about to be punished, when a minister spoke. - ‘How can we hang so shamefully / What touched your head, Your Majesty?’
→ The minister said it was shameful to punish something that touched the King. - ‘True,’ mused the King. By now the crowd, / Restless, was muttering aloud.
→ The King agreed, but the people were getting restless. - The King perceived their mood and trembled / And said to all who were assembled —
→ The King feared the people’s anger and addressed them. - ‘Let us postpone consideration / Of finer points like guilt. The nation
→ He said to forget about who was guilty. - Wants a hanging. Hanged must be / Someone, and that immediately.’
→ The crowd wanted someone to be executed right away. - The noose was set up somewhat high. / Each man was measured by and by.
→ The gallows was prepared, and everyone was measured. - But only one man was so tall / He fitted. One man. That was all.
→ Only one person fit the noose – the King himself. - He was the King. His Majesty / Was therefore hanged by Royal Decree.
→ The King was executed according to his own order.
Word Notes
- Placid: calm, peaceful
- Proclaimed: announced, declared
- Triumphally: victoriously, gloriously
- Thoroughfare: main road, street
- Edify: inspire, instruct
- Disgrace: shame, dishonor
- Gallows: scaffold, execution post
- Quivering: trembling, shaking
- Amendments: changes, alterations
- Counsel: advice, guidance
- Quavering: shaky, trembling
- Scaffold: platform, stage for execution
- Restless: uneasy, impatient
- Mused : thought, reflected
- Decree: order, command
- Arch: curve, structure
- Spectators: onlookers, viewers
- Crown: headpiece, diadem
- Halt: stop, pause
- Ordain: command, decree
- Summon: call, invite
- Majesty: royalty, sovereignty
- Red (saw red): angry, furious
- Trembled: shook, quivered
- Assembled: gathered, collected
- Nation: country, state
- Noose: loop, rope
- Fit / Fitted: matched, suited
- Justice : fairness, impartiality
- Culprit: wrongdoer, offender
- Punished: penalized, disciplined
- Wise: intelligent, learned
- Scaffolded: supported, propped
- Councillor: adviser, minister
- Mutters / Muttering: whisper, complain
- Tricky: difficult, complicated
- Banged: hit, struck
- Shout: cry, yell
- Fault : mistake, error
- Surprised: amazed, astonished
- Quarrel: dispute, argument
- Edify (again in context): morally teach, uplift
- Postpone: delay, defer
- Consideration: thought, reflection
- Finer points: details, subtleties
- Liberty: freedom, independence
- Tradition : custom, practice
Summary:
Vikram Seth’s narrative poem The Tale of Melon City tells the satirical story of a “just and placid” King who wanted a grand arch to be built as a symbol of victory. The workers constructed it, but when the King inspected it, his crown was knocked off because the arch was too low. Furious, he declared the chief of builders should be hanged. The builder shifted the blame to the workers, the workers blamed the masons, the masons blamed the architect, and finally, the architect reminded the King that it was he himself who had altered the design.
The King, caught in his own sense of justice, sought the advice of the wisest man in the kingdom. The old man declared that the arch was guilty and should be punished. But when the arch was about to be executed, a councillor objected, saying that it had touched the King’s head, and therefore should not be shamed. Meanwhile, the crowd grew restless, demanding a hanging. To satisfy them, the King ordered that someone must be executed immediately.
When measurements were taken for the noose, the only person who fit was the King himself. True to his decree and his nature of not going against the will of the people, the King was hanged.
Afterwards, according to the tradition of the city, the citizens chose their new ruler by asking the people what kind of king they wanted. Being simple and freedom-loving, they answered: “The king should be one who does not interfere.” Thus, they crowned a ruler who let them live in liberty, and the city came to be known as The Melon City.
Central Idea of the Poem
Vikram Seth’s The Tale of Melon City is a humorous yet satirical narrative that highlights the principles of justice, freedom, and individual choice in governance. The poem tells the story of a “just and placid” king who believed in allowing people to live according to their own wishes. However, his exaggerated sense of justice and his inability to take firm decisions led to absurd situations. When the arch knocked off his crown, the blame kept shifting from one person to another, until finally the king himself was executed by his own decree.
After his death, as per tradition, the citizens were asked what kind of ruler they wanted. Being freedom-loving, they declared that their ruler should be someone who does not interfere in their lives. Accordingly, they chose a ruler who let them live in complete liberty. Since then, the city became known as The Melon City.
The central idea is that people often prefer personal freedom over an interfering ruler, even if it means having a symbolic king who does nothing. The poem also mocks blind justice, red tape, and the fickle nature of public opinion. It emphasizes that true happiness for citizens lies in the principle of “live and let live.”
Character Analysis
1. The King
- The King is described as “just and placid.”
- He tries to maintain fairness but often shifts decisions without firm judgment.
- His exaggerated sense of justice makes him ridiculous — instead of solving problems, he keeps blaming others.
- Finally, his blind justice leads to his own execution.
- Symbolically, he represents rulers who are weak, indecisive, and over-concerned with appearances rather than real governance.
2. The Citizens
- The citizens are simple, freedom-loving people.
- They do not care about who rules them, as long as they are left alone.
- They decide that their king should not interfere in their lives, which is why the city becomes “Melon City.”
- They represent public opinion — often indifferent to governance, but demanding in moments of crisis (like the hanging).
3. The Workmen
- They build the arch but quickly shift blame when accused.
- Their role shows human tendency to escape responsibility and pass on faults to others.
4. The Masons
- They are nervous and frightened when accused.
- They also try to avoid blame by pointing at the architect.
- They symbolize ordinary people who fear authority.
5. The Architect
- He is clever and quick-thinking.
- He shifts responsibility back to the King, reminding him that he altered the design.
- His character represents professional cunning and survival instinct.
6. The Wisest Man
- An old, blind man brought to court for advice.
- Instead of giving true wisdom, he declares the arch guilty.
- His absurd decision shows how age is sometimes mistaken for wisdom, and how so-called “wise men” may not provide real guidance.
7. The Councillor
- He intervenes to stop the hanging of the arch, saying it would insult the King.
- His role reflects the flattery and manipulation often found in advisers at court.
8. The Arch
- Although an object, the arch becomes a “character” when declared guilty.
- Its absurd trial and punishment highlight the satire and mockery of blind justice.
NCERT Snapshots Textual Questions Answers Class 11 [Page No 44]
“The Tale of Melon City” NCERT Snapshots Textual Questions Answers for Class 11 CBSE are written in a clear and easy-to-understand way. These answers help students learn about the poem’s main ideas, characters, and writing style. They are great for quick revision, exam preparation, and for building a strong understanding of the lesson.
1. Narrate ‘The Tale of Melon City’ in your own words.
Ans: The poem The Tale of Melon City by Vikram Seth narrates a humorous and ironic story of a city whose ruler was known as a “just and placid King.” He ordered a grand arch to be built to commemorate his reign. The arch, however, was built too low, and while passing under it, the King’s crown fell. Angered, the King blamed the chief of builders, who in turn blamed the workmen. The workmen blamed the masons, and the masons accused the architect. The architect reminded the King that he himself had altered the plans. Caught in a dilemma, the King sought advice from the wisest man, who declared the arch guilty. A councillor intervened, saying it would be shameful to punish the arch. Meanwhile, the crowd grew restless and demanded someone be hanged. By royal decree, the King himself was executed. Following tradition, the citizens chose a ruler according to their wish. They selected someone who would not interfere, and thus the city came to be called “The Melon City.”
2. What impression would you form of a state where the King was ‘just and placid’?
Ans: In a state where the King was “just and placid,” one would expect fairness, calmness, and absence of tyranny. The poem portrays the King as a ruler who always wanted to act justly, but his excessive desire to appear fair often turned into foolishness. Instead of exercising wisdom and responsibility, he shifted blame from one person to another. His so-called justice led to ridiculous trials, where even the arch itself was accused and ordered to be hanged. This reveals that blind justice without practicality becomes meaningless. The King’s placid nature meant that he never imposed his will strongly on the people. In the end, his own decree led to his execution, proving his inability to govern wisely. The impression of such a state is that it would be free from oppression but would also lack firm leadership. The people in such a place valued liberty above all and preferred a ruler who did not interfere. This gave the city its unique identity as “The Melon City.”
3. How, according to you, can peace and liberty be maintained in a state?
Ans: According to the poem, peace and liberty can be maintained when rulers respect the will of the people and avoid unnecessary interference in their lives. The citizens of the city desired a ruler who would not disturb their personal freedom. When asked what kind of king they wanted, they simply replied, “The king should let the people live in liberty.” This shows their belief that true happiness lies in being left alone to live freely. The poem suggests that peace does not always require an authoritarian ruler; sometimes non-interference ensures greater harmony. However, the King’s exaggerated justice also highlights that peace needs balance — justice must not become absurd or blind. Liberty flourishes when rulers act responsibly, maintain fairness, and avoid imposing unnecessary controls. The people of the Melon City cherished their tradition of independence. Thus, the poem conveys that peace and liberty are preserved not through force or strict rules but through a mutual understanding of “live and let live.”
4. Suggest a few instances in the poem which highlight humour and irony.
Ans: The poem is filled with humour and irony that make it a satire. One humorous instance is when the King keeps shifting the blame — from the chief of builders to the workmen, from the workmen to the masons, from the masons to the architect, and finally back to himself. This shows the comic futility of his decisions. Another ironic moment occurs when the wisest man of the state declares that the arch itself is guilty and should be punished. The absurdity of punishing an inanimate object makes the scene highly humorous. Further irony is found when the crowd demands a hanging, and the only person tall enough to fit the noose is the King himself. By his own decree, he ends up being executed. The greatest irony lies in the fact that after the King’s death, the citizens remain happy because they have a ruler who does not interfere in their lives. Thus, the poem mocks blind justice, public opinion, and the nature of governance with sharp humour.
5. ‘The Tale of Melon City’ has been narrated in a verse form. This is a unique style which lends extra charm to an ancient tale. Find similar examples in your language. Share them in the class.
Ans: Vikram Seth narrates The Tale of Melon City in verse form, which gives rhythm, wit, and charm to the story. The verse style adds a storytelling quality, almost like a ballad, making the satire more engaging. Instead of a dull narrative, the rhyming couplets create humour and highlight the absurdity of events. In many languages, such verse narratives are common. In English, Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales and Alexander Pope’s The Rape of the Lock are examples where stories are told in verse with satire. In Bengali, Michael Madhusudan Dutt’s Meghnad Badh Kavya retells an epic story in poetic form. Similarly, folk ballads and kirtans often narrate stories in verse. The verse form makes such tales memorable and entertaining, as the rhyme and rhythm appeal to listeners as well as readers. Just as Seth’s poem uses verse to heighten humour and irony, similar traditions in other languages show that verse is not only lyrical but also an effective medium for storytelling.
Exam Pattern-Based Questions Answers
Exam Pattern-Based Question Answers are made as per the latest CBSE rules to help students score higher. They include MCQs, short and long answers, and competency-based questions. These help students practice well and understand the exam format clearly.
Extract-Based Questions: The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers
One prose extract out of two, from the book Snapshots, to assess comprehension, interpretation, analysis, inference and appreciation. 4×1=4 Marks
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 1
1. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
Under the arch he lost his crown.
The arch was built too low. A frown
Appeared upon his placid face.
The King said, ‘This is a disgrace.’
(i) Why did the King lose his crown?
(a) The crown slipped on its own
(b) The wind blew it away
(c) The arch was too low
(d) The King dropped it carelessly
(ii) How did the King react after losing his crown?
(iii) What quality of the King is reflected in the word placid?
(iv) Name the figure of speech used in placid face.
Ans.
(i) (c) The arch was too low
(ii) The King became angry and called it a disgrace.
(iii) The word placid reflects the King’s generally calm and peaceful nature.
(iv) Epithet
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 2
2. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
‘O King, it was the workmen’s fault’
‘Oh!’ said the King, and called a halt
To the proceedings. Being just
(And placider now) he said, ‘I must
Have all the workmen hanged instead.’
(i) Who tried to save himself by blaming the workmen?
(a) The architect
(b) The masons
(c) The chief of builders
(d) The councillor
(ii) How did the King show he was “just”?
(iii) What punishment did the King announce for the workmen?
(iv) Identify the rhyme scheme in these lines.
Ans.
(i) (c) The chief of builders
(ii) The King stopped the punishment midway and decided to shift it fairly on those blamed.
(iii) He ordered that all the workmen should be hanged.
(iv) AABB
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 3
3. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks).
Truly, the arch it was that banged
The crown off, and it must be hanged’.
To the scaffold the arch was led
When suddenly a Councillor said —
(i) Who declared the arch guilty?
(a) The King
(b) The people
(c) The wisest man
(d) The councillor
(ii) Why was the arch punished?
(iii) Who objected to the hanging of the arch?
(iv) The literary device used in the arch… must be hanged is—
Ans.
(i) (c) The wisest man
(ii) Because it was said that the arch had knocked off the King’s crown.
(iii) A councillor objected, saying it would be shameful to punish what touched the King’s head.
(iv) Personification
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 4
4. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
The ministers said: “They were the workmen who
Had made the arch; they were to blame.”
The masons were therefore summoned, who
Laid the fault on the architect.
(i) Who did the ministers hold responsible for the fault?
(a) The king
(b) The people
(c) The workmen
(d) The mason
(ii) What mistake was being discussed here?
(iii) Who did the masons blame for the mistake?
(iv) What does this shifting of blame highlight in the poem?
Ans.
(i) (c) The workmen
(ii) The arch was built too low, causing the king’s crown to fall.
(iii) The masons blamed the architect for the mistake.
(iv) This shifting of blame highlights the irony and the absurdity of justice in the poem.
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 5
5. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
The crowd was placated and the city
Lived in peace and in liberty.
True to tradition, in the end
The matter was put to public choice.
(i) What does the word ‘placated’ mean?
(a) Angered
(b) Calmed
(c) Punished
(d) Encouraged
(ii) What kind of life did the people live after the king’s death?
(iii) How was the final decision about the new ruler made?
(iv) What does this decision show about the people of the city?
Ans.
(i) (b) Calmed
(ii) The people lived in peace and enjoyed complete liberty.
(iii) The final decision was made by following tradition, allowing public choice to decide the ruler.
(iv) It shows that the people valued personal freedom over authority and were indifferent to who ruled them.
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 6
6. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
They said: “Long live the king! The king is dead!”
They carried the body off with dread.
And then they thought of choosing a king,
They followed an ancient custom in everything.
(i) What contradiction do you find in the first line?
(ii) Why did the people carry the body ‘with dread’?
(iii) What was the ancient custom they followed?
(iv) What literary device is used in “Long live the king! The king is dead!”?
Ans.
(i) The contradiction is that the people first wished long life for the king, but immediately declared him dead.
(ii) They carried the body with dread because they feared the strange course of justice in the kingdom.
(iii) The ancient custom was that the people would choose the next ruler according to public will.
(iv) The literary device is paradox.
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 7
7. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
They said: “The will of the people should prevail.
Let the people decide without fail.”
The next ruler was chosen in this way,
And the people had nothing more to say.
(i) What principle of governance is shown here?
(ii) How was the next ruler chosen?
(a) By the ministers
(b) By the army
(c) By the people
(d) By the architect
(iii) What does the people’s attitude towards governance reveal?
(iv) Who was finally chosen as the ruler?
Ans.
(i) The principle of democracy is shown here.
(ii) (c) By the people
(iii) It reveals that the people cared only for personal liberty and not for an active ruler.
(iv) A simple man who desired that the ruler should be a melon was chosen, leading to the city being ruled by a melon.
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 8
8. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
The crowd, it is said, was so wise and free,
That they asked, “What is your wish, Majesty?”
The King replied, “I wish to be ruled
By custom. Let it be as the people ruled.”
(i) What qualities of the crowd are highlighted here?
(a) Foolish and fearful
(b) Wise and free
(c) Angry and restless
(d) Greedy and selfish
(ii) What was the King’s wish?
(iii) What does the King’s response reveal about his character?
(iv) Which literary device is used in “wise and free”?
Ans.
(i) (b) Wise and free
(ii) The King wished to be ruled according to custom, as was the tradition.
(iii) His response reveals that he was just and placid, leaving decisions to the people.
(iv) The literary device is epithet.
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 9
9. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
They finally chose a man and asked him:
“Who should be the King of this realm?”
The man answered in a voice so plain,
“Let the King be the one who causes none pain.”
(i) Who was asked to choose the new king?
(ii) What principle guided the man’s choice?
(iii) Who was ultimately chosen as the King of the city?
(a) The architect
(b) A mason
(c) A melon
(d) A minister
(iv) What does this choice reveal about the people of the city?
Ans.
(i) A simple man from the crowd was asked to choose.
(ii) His principle was that the king should cause no one pain.
(iii) (c) A melon was chosen as the King.
(iv) It reveals that the people were indifferent to authority and valued freedom over a ruler’s presence.
The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers Set 10
10. Read the given extracts carefully and answer the following questions. (1X4=4marks)
Thus it happened, a city from then on
Was called “The City of Melon”, and was known.
The people, true to tradition, said with pride,
“We follow our custom, whate’er betide.”
(i) Why was the city called “The City of Melon”?
(a) Because melons were grown there.
(b) Because the people loved melons.
(c) Because they made a melon their King.
(d) Because the King built melon gardens.
(ii) What tradition did the people follow?
(iii) What does the phrase “whate’er betide” mean in the context?
(iv) What quality of the people is emphasized in these lines?
Ans.
(i) (c) Because they made a melon their King.
(ii) The people followed the tradition of allowing the public to decide their ruler.
(iii) The phrase means “whatever may happen.”
(iv) It emphasizes their firm belief in freedom and their indifference to the ruler’s identity.
Short Answer Type Questions: The Tale of Melon City Questions Answers
One Short answer type question, from the book Snapshots, to be answered in 40- 50 words. Questions should elicit inferential responses through critical thinking. One out of two questions to be done. 3×1=3 Marks
The Address Questions Answers Set 1
1. Give reason why the king ordered to build an arch.
Ans. The king ordered an arch to be constructed as a symbol of triumph and to glorify his reign. He wanted it to span the main road, impress spectators, and showcase the city’s grandeur. The arch was intended as a monumental structure reflecting the king’s authority and taste, highlighting his desire for public admiration.
2. Explain what happened when the king passed under the arch. State his reaction.
Ans. When the king passed under the arch, it was too low, and his crown fell off. He was displeased and called it a disgrace. He initially ordered the chief of builders to be hanged but later shifted blame to others. This shows the absurdity of his decisions, adding humour and satire to the poem.
3. Interpret the information provided by the architect when summoned.
Ans. The architect informed the king that he had changed the original plans of the arch himself. Therefore, the faulty design was the king’s responsibility, not the architect’s. This exposed the king’s lack of self-awareness and inability to recognize his own role in the problem, highlighting the absurdity and satirical tone of the poem regarding leadership and justice.
4. The king was trapped by the architect. Do you agree? What solution was found?
Ans. Yes, the architect trapped the king by pointing out his alterations. The king became furious and confused, unable to act decisively. To resolve the situation, he asked for the wisest man to be brought to court, seeking guidance. This emphasizes the king’s reliance on others and the absurdity of justice depicted in the poem.
The Address Questions Answers Set 2
5. A blame game started and the king was confused. Who was involved?
Ans. The blame passed through multiple people. The chief of builders blamed the workmen; the workmen blamed the masons; the masons blamed the architect; and the architect finally blamed the king. This chain of accusations shows the absurdity of trying to assign responsibility, leaving the king confused and highlighting the poem’s satire on misplaced justice.
6. What role did the ‘wisest man’ play in the king’s decision?
Ans. The wisest man, old and blind, advised that the arch itself was guilty and should be punished. His ridiculous suggestion added to the absurdity of the situation, highlighting the poem’s satire on misapplied wisdom. His advice influenced the king, showing how even supposed experts can contribute to illogical decisions, reflecting the flaws in leadership.
7. The crowd was getting restless by the drama. Explain.
Ans. The crowd had been watching the prolonged blame-shifting and indecision regarding the king’s crown. They expected a hanging to happen, but nothing concrete occurred, leading to impatience. Their restlessness reflects public impatience with ineffective leadership and illustrates the poem’s humorous critique of political drama and absurd justice.
The Address Questions Answers Set 3
8. Assess the king’s final decree reading the hanging.
Ans. The king decreed that someone must be hanged to satisfy the crowd, showing his failure as a ruler. His decision reflects blind adherence to authority and absurdity, prioritizing appearances over justice. It emphasizes the poem’s satire, critiquing leadership driven by public pressure and superficial actions rather than reason or fairness.
9. How did the king end up being hanged?
Ans. The king insisted that someone be punished to appease the crowd. When measured for the noose, only the king’s height matched. Following his own decree, he accepted the punishment. This highlights the poem’s satire on blind justice and the absurd consequences of arbitrary leadership.
10. What does the crowd’s reaction to the king’s punishment reveal about their loyalty?
Ans. The crowd’s loyalty was superficial, focused on peace rather than genuine respect. They accepted the absurd execution without protest, showing indifference to the king’s fate. Their reaction underscores the poem’s satire, reflecting public complacency and preference for stability over moral or rational engagement with leadership.
11. The people of Melon City were unbothered by their king. Analyse.
Ans. The citizens were indifferent to who ruled them, valuing peace and liberty above all. Even a foolish king or a melon as ruler did not affect them, as long as their lives remained free of interference. This reflects the poem’s theme that freedom is more important to citizens than active leadership.
The Address Questions Answers Set 4
12. Define Laissez-faire and explain its principles.
Ans. Laissez-faire means “to leave alone” or non-interference in governance. In the poem, the melon as king exemplifies this principle because it cannot interfere in citizens’ lives. This ensures liberty and peace, highlighting that minimal control by rulers allows people to live freely, satirically critiquing the need for active governance.
13. Justify the title ‘The Tale of Melon City’.
Ans. The title reflects the story of the city’s history when a melon was chosen as king after the previous king’s death. It satirically narrates how absurd leadership led to the king’s execution and how the people preferred a ruler who would not interfere, giving the city its unique name and emphasizing the poem’s humour and critique.
14. What is the main message conveyed by the poem’s ending?
Ans. The ending conveys that people value liberty over leadership. They are content with a melon as king, reflecting indifference to authority. The poem satirizes governance, public complacency, and blind adherence to tradition, emphasizing that peace and freedom matter more than an active ruler’s wisdom or justice.
The Address Questions Answers Set 5
15. How does the king’s decision-making process evolve throughout the poem?
Ans. Initially, the king blames individuals for the arch’s fault. Later, he consults the wisest man and eventually succumbs to crowd pressure. His decisions become increasingly absurd, showing satire on flawed leadership where choices are driven by appearances, public opinion, and attempts to maintain order rather than logic or fairness.
16. How does the king’s placid nature influence his actions?
Ans. The king’s calm and passive nature makes him indecisive. He avoids confronting problems, shifts blame arbitrarily, and relies on others for guidance. This placidity leads to absurd decisions, highlighting flaws in leadership and showing that excessive passivity can be as harmful as tyranny in governance.
The Address Questions Answers Set 6
17. Why is the idea of a melon as king significant?
Ans. A melon as king satirizes governance and leadership. It symbolizes randomness in power and public indifference. The citizens choose a ruler who cannot interfere, emphasizing freedom and mocking human preoccupation with authority, showing that leadership may be meaningless when people value liberty above all.
18. What does the phrase ‘customary choice’ suggest about the people’s attitude toward leadership?
Ans. The phrase suggests that people are indifferent to their ruler’s qualities and follow tradition without questioning. Choosing a king becomes a ritual rather than a meaningful decision. Their complacency reflects passive acceptance of leadership and highlights the satire on human indifference toward governance.
Long Answer Type Questions: The Address Questions Answers
One Long answer type question, based on the chapters from the book Snapshots, to be answered in 120-150 words, to assess global comprehension and extrapolation beyond the text. Questions to provide analytical and evaluative responses, using incidents, events, themes, as reference points. Any one out of two questions to be done. 1×6=6 Marks
The Address Questions Answers Set 1
1. It is essential to possess intelligence and common sense to rule over others. Comment in the context of the chapter.
Ans. A ruler must possess intelligence and common sense to make fair and practical decisions. In The Tale of Melon City, the king lacks both, which leads to his downfall. He cannot judge the excuses of the workmen, masons, and architect, and blindly accepts external blame. His foolishness results in absurd punishments and ultimately his own hanging. The architect and others, aware of the king’s weaknesses, manipulate the situation, showing that intelligence is essential to foresee consequences. The poem satirizes leadership where authority without understanding or foresight leads to chaos. An intelligent ruler must analyse situations, differentiate between right and wrong, and act wisely, unlike the king, whose passive nature makes him susceptible to manipulation, highlighting the dangers of incompetence in leadership.
2. Write a note on the passive subjects of the kingdom in the poem.
Ans. The subjects of Melon City are passive and compliant, following orders without questioning authority. When the king orders hangings of workmen, masons, or the architect, the citizens accept it without protest, prioritizing peace and stability over justice. Even when a melon is made king, they show no resistance, demonstrating indifference toward governance. Their passive acceptance reflects their reliance on tradition and routine rather than critical thinking. The poem critiques such passivity, highlighting how blind obedience can enable absurd or tyrannical leadership. The citizens’ lack of engagement shows that they value liberty and peace more than an effective ruler, underscoring the satire that leadership matters little when people are indifferent. This behaviour mirrors real-world scenarios where citizens comply without questioning unjust authority, emphasizing the poem’s social commentary on human nature.
The Address Questions Answers Set 2
3. The king is initially portrayed as fair and just, but his lack of insight makes him easily swayed by external opinions. Elaborate.
Ans. The king appears fair and just but lacks insight, making him easily influenced. Initially, he orders the arch built to inspire citizens, showing a desire for public admiration. When his crown falls under the low arch, he becomes angry and blames the chief builder without assessing his own role. His decisions shift repeatedly as he listens to the workmen, masons, and architect. Even when advised by the wisest man, he follows the crowd’s demands instead of reason. His placid nature prevents him from making rational judgments. Ultimately, he accepts his own hanging to satisfy the people, highlighting his inability to exercise authority responsibly. The poem satirizes absolute power when detached from wisdom, showing how lack of insight in leaders leads to chaos, absurdity, and the failure of justice.
4. Analyse the concept of justice as portrayed in the poem.
Ans. Justice in The Tale of Melon City is portrayed humorously and ironically. The king seeks to appear fair but makes illogical decisions. When the arch knocks off his crown, he initially punishes the chief builder, then workmen, masons, and finally the architect, showing arbitrary blame-shifting. The wisest man absurdly suggests hanging the arch. Justice becomes a spectacle as the king decrees someone must be hanged to satisfy the crowd. Eventually, he himself is hanged because he fits the noose. The poem satirizes the judicial system under foolish leadership, where justice depends on appearance, whim, and crowd pressure rather than logic. Authority without wisdom leads to absurd outcomes, and the king’s fate reflects the failure of justice when rulers are incompetent, highlighting the humorous critique of governance and decision-making in society.
The Address Questions Answers Set 3
5. Mob psychology is beyond any reason. Politicians use this in their favour. A good leader can use the mob to achieve useful purposes. Express your opinion.
Ans. The crowd can act irrationally when emotionally aroused, ignoring reason or logic. Politicians often exploit this to achieve personal agendas or discredit opponents. However, a good leader can channel the energy of the people toward positive goals. For example, Gandhi mobilized masses for India’s freedom using satyagraha and non-violence, creating national change. The poem reflects this by showing the restless crowd demanding action. A wise leader understands mob psychology and uses it responsibly to benefit society, whereas foolish rulers risk chaos by blindly following or provoking public sentiment. Leadership requires balancing emotional impulses with rational guidance. In essence, the crowd’s power is immense; misused, it leads to disorder, but applied wisely, it can achieve meaningful reforms, reflecting the importance of strategic and ethical leadership in society.
6. Satire can be an effective tool for social reform. Keeping the chapter in mind, write your views.
Ans. Satire conveys messages using humour rather than harsh criticism. In The Tale of Melon City, satire exposes human foolishness, incompetence in leadership, and public passivity. The poem highlights how authority can be misused, absurd punishments meted out, and governance fail when wisdom is absent. Vikram Seth uses exaggeration, irony, and humour to make readers reflect on societal norms without direct confrontation. The story of the king’s folly and the melon as ruler subtly teaches that leaders should be wise, accountable, and just. Satire allows critique without offending, motivating reform and awareness. By mocking the extremes of incompetence and blind obedience, the poem inspires reflection on governance, justice, and civic responsibility. This shows satire’s power to educate, reform, and influence society, making readers rethink conventional practices and human behavior.
Sample Paper Mock Test (Solved)
Poem: The Tale of Melon City – Vikram Seth
Class: 11 English Core
Time: 90 minutes
Maximum Marks: 50
Section A – Extract Based Questions (10 Marks)
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
Extract:
“Well, on account of customary choice.
If his majesty rejoice in being a melon, that’s OK
With us, for who are we to say what he should be
As long as he leaves us in peace and liberty?”
1. (i) Why did the people have a melon for their king?
(ii) What do the given lines tell us about the kingdom?
(a) The people hated the old king.
(b) The people wanted peace and liberty.
(c) The melon king is just and placid.
(d) God chose melon to be the king.
(iii) Complete the sentence appropriately. The word ‘customary’ in the context of the extract means…
(iv) What, according to the people of Melon City, was a benefit of the king being a melon?
Answer Key:
1. (i) The people chose a melon as king because it would not interfere in their lives, ensuring freedom and peace.
(ii) (b) The people wanted peace and liberty.
(iii) Customary means “traditional or usual practice.”
(iv) The people enjoyed peace, liberty, and freedom from the king’s interference.
Section B – Short Answer Type Questions (20 Marks)
1. After reading only the first two lines of the chapter, what do you think a just and placid king should be like?
Answer: A just and placid king should be calm, fair, and wise. He should make decisions thoughtfully, considering justice and well-being of his subjects. Such a king respects laws, listens to counsel, and rules with integrity without being swayed by vanity, personal gain, or trivial matters. Peaceful governance and understanding of responsibility define a true ruler.
2. What happened when the king rode down the main road?
Answer: The king passed under the low arch, which knocked off his crown. This triggered anger and humiliation. He initially ordered the chief builder to be hanged, then blamed the workmen, masons, and architect, showing absurdity in justice. The incident satirizes arbitrary punishment and highlights the king’s lack of insight, demonstrating the poem’s humorous critique of leadership and governance.
3. Ultimately, who was held responsible for the king’s disgrace and why?
Answer: Ultimately, the king himself was held responsible. The blame had passed through the chief builder, workmen, masons, and architect, each shifting responsibility. Following the king’s own decree that someone must be hanged, when measured, only his height fit the noose. The poem satirically shows how blind justice and indecisive leadership lead to absurd consequences.
4. What do you learn about the ministers from their behaviour?
Answer: The ministers in the poem are cautious, submissive, and concerned with pleasing the king and the crowd. They quickly shift blame to others and follow the king’s orders without critical thought. Their behaviour highlights bureaucracy that avoids responsibility, reflects societal compliance, and satirizes officials more focused on appearances than justice or rational decision-making.
5. How does the poem use humour to critique the system of monarchy and justice?
Answer: The poem uses exaggeration, irony, and absurdity to highlight flaws in monarchy. The king’s crown falls; builders, masons, and even the arch are blamed. The wisest man suggests hanging the arch. Finally, the king is hanged himself. This humour exposes arbitrary punishment, incompetence of rulers, public compliance, and absurdity in justice, critiquing governance and decision-making with satire and wit.
Section C – Long Answer Type Questions (20 Marks)
Write a speech for your student in 120-150 words about how a king should be chosen, according to you. Elaborate on the qualities that the king must possess to rule the kingdom.
Answer: Good morning, Students! A leader should be chosen carefully because the welfare of the kingdom depends on his intelligence, wisdom, and fairness. A king must be just, ensuring laws are applied equally to all. He should possess common sense to judge situations correctly, empathy to understand subjects’ needs, and courage to make difficult decisions. A good ruler should be honest, responsible, and unselfish, valuing peace and liberty above personal glory. The king should not be swayed by flattery or fear, and he must act to maintain stability while promoting progress. Leadership requires vision, rationality, and fairness. A poorly chosen king, like in The Tale of Melon City, leads to chaos, misplaced blame, and absurd outcomes. Therefore, selection must prioritise wisdom, integrity, and ability to govern effectively for the benefit of all citizens.
2. Sometimes, stressing too much on rules and regulations can lead to chaos in running a state. Should such strict implementation be followed, in the context of what happened in The Tale of Melon City?
Answer: Strict enforcement of rules without understanding context can create disorder. In The Tale of Melon City, the king’s rigid insistence on punishing someone led to absurd outcomes. Blame shifted from builders to workmen, masons, architect, and finally to himself. Overemphasis on procedure ignored logic, fairness, and reason. A ruler must balance rules with discretion, insight, and situational judgment. Blind adherence may satisfy appearances or crowds temporarily, but it fosters injustice and confusion. The poem highlights that excessive rigidity causes chaos, demonstrating the need for wisdom, flexibility, and common sense in governance, rather than mere adherence to regulations. Proper evaluation, fairness, and consideration of circumstances ensure justice and maintain peace without absurd consequences.
Sample Paper Mock Test 1 (Unsolved)
Poem: The Tale of Melon City – Vikram Seth
Class: 11 English Core
Time: 90 minutes
Maximum Marks: 50
Section A – Extract-Based Questions (10 Marks)
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
Extract:
“Well, on account of customary choice.
If his majesty rejoice in being a melon, that’s OK
With us, for who are we to say what he should be
As long as he leaves us in peace and liberty?”
- (i) Why did the people have a melon for their king?
(ii) What do the given lines tell us about the kingdom?
(a) The people hated the old king.
(b) The people wanted peace and liberty.
(c) The melon king is just and placid.
(d) God chose melon to be the king.
(iii) Complete the sentence appropriately. The word ‘customary’ in the context of the extract means…
(iv) What, according to the people of Melon City, was a benefit of the king being a melon?
Section B – Short Answer Type Questions (20 Marks)
- After reading only the first two lines of the chapter, what do you think a just and placid king should be like?
- What happened when the king rode down the main road?
- Ultimately, who was held responsible for the king’s disgrace and why?
- What do you learn about the ministers from their behaviour?
- How does the poem use humour to critique the system of monarchy and justice?
Section C – Long Answer Type Questions (20 Marks)
- Write a speech for your student in 120-150 words about how a king should be chosen, according to you. Elaborate on the qualities that the king must possess to rule the kingdom.
You may begin like this:
Good morning, Students! A leader should be chosen carefully because…
Sometimes, stressing too much on rules and regulations can lead to chaos in running a state. Should such strict implementation be followed, in the context of what happened in The Tale of Melon City?
Sample Paper Mock Test 2 (Unsolved)
Poem: The Tale of Melon City – Vikram Seth
Class: 11 English Core
Time: 90 minutes
Maximum Marks: 50
Section A – Extract-Based Questions (10 Marks)
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
Extract:
“Under the arch he lost his crown.
The arch was built too low. A frown
Appeared upon his placid face.
The King said, ‘This is a disgrace.’ “
- (i) What does the ‘arch’ symbolize in the poem?
(ii) How did the king react when he lost his crown?
(iii) Which literary device is used in the line “A frown appeared upon his placid face”?
(iv) What does this incident indicate about the king’s character?
Section B – Short Answer Type Questions (20 Marks)
- Why did the king order the chief builder to be hanged initially?
- How did the blame shift from the chief builder to the workmen, masons, and finally the architect?
- What role did the wisest man play when consulted by the king?
- Explain how the poem portrays the absurdity of justice in Melon City.
- How does the king’s placid nature influence his decisions throughout the poem?
Section C – Long Answer Type Questions (20 Marks)
- Imagine you are a student of Melon City. Write a short article (120–150 words) on why it is important for a ruler to be intelligent and fair.
- The poem is humorous and satirical. Explain, with examples, how satire is used to critique leadership and governance in The Tale of Melon City.
Sample Paper Mock Test 3 (Unsolved)
Poem: The Tale of Melon City – Vikram Seth
Class: 11 English Core
Time: 90 minutes
Maximum Marks: 50
Section A – Extract Based Questions (10 Marks)
Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow.
Extract:
“The chief of builders was led out.
He passed the King. He gave a shout,
‘O King, it was the workmen’s fault.’
‘Oh!’ said the King, and called a halt.”
- (i) Who was initially blamed for the arch’s failure?
(ii) What excuse did the chief of builders give?
(iii) How did the king respond to this explanation?
(iv) Which literary device is present in the dialogue between the king and the chief builder?
Section B – Short Answer Type Questions (20 Marks)
- Describe the chain of blame that occurs after the arch incident.
- Why did the king call for the architect, and what was revealed during his consultation?
- How did the crowd influence the king’s final decision?
- Explain how humour and irony are used in the poem to comment on leadership and justice.
- What does the poem suggest about the people of Melon City’s attitude towards authority?
Section C – Long Answer Type Questions (20 Marks)
- Imagine you are a citizen of Melon City. Write a short essay (120–150 words) on how people should participate in governance to prevent absurd decisions like those of the king.
- In the poem, the king ultimately ends up being hanged. Discuss how this ending reinforces the satirical critique of leadership and arbitrary justice.
