NCERT Class 10 English – First Flight – Chapter 9: The Proposal (Anton Chekhov)
Before You Read – Activity & Simple Answers
Q1. The word ‘proposal’ has several meanings. Can you guess what sort of proposal the play is about?
Answer: The play is about asking someone’s hand in marriage.
Explanation: Out of the given options, meaning (iii) “the act of asking someone’s hand in marriage” fits the context of the play.
Q2. Do you think Indian and Russian weddings have any customs in common? Fill in the table below.
| Customs similar to Indian ones | Customs different from Indian ones |
|---|---|
| Exchange of gifts | Use of samovars for tea |
| Family involvement | Short engagement period |
| Formal proposals | Formal toasts at the table |
| Celebration with food | Specific dress styles |
| Decorations for the home | Different wedding music |
Explanation: Some customs in Russian weddings resemble Indian ones, while others are different due to culture.
Thinking about the Play
Q1. What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for? Is he sincere when he later says “And I’ve always loved you, my angel, as if you were my own son”?
Answer: Chubukov first thinks Lomov has come about land. Later, he sincerely praises Lomov as if he were his own son.
Explanation: Chubukov’s words show respect and affection once he understands Lomov’s real purpose.
Q2. Chubukov says of Natalya: “… as if she won’t consent! She’s in love; egad, she’s like a lovesick cat…” Would you agree?
Answer: Yes, Natalya shows she cares deeply and is emotional, which makes the comment suitable.
Explanation: Her reactions in the play show she is sensitive and passionate about the marriage proposal.
Q3. Find all words and expressions used to speak about each other and insults in the play. Then describe each character with five adjectives.
Answer:
Chubukov: affectionate, suspicious, humorous, clever, proud.
Lomov: nervous, polite, anxious, determined, quarrelsome.
Natalya: emotional, proud, stubborn, witty, passionate.
Insults used: intriguer, malicious, double-faced, lovesick cat, etc.
Explanation: The play has humorous quarrels and polite compliments mixed with insults, showing character traits.
Q4. Imagine what the characters might quarrel about next.
Answer: They might argue about property boundaries, minor disagreements, or household matters.
Explanation: The play shows that small disagreements can quickly escalate into quarrels.
Thinking about Language
Q1. Find expressions that seem more Russian than English.
Answer: Expressions like “my darling” or “my treasure” sound Russian; in modern English, adults use “dear” or just names.
Q2. Look up these words, note pronunciation and stress:
Words: palpitations, interfere, implore, thoroughbred, pedigree, principle, evidence, misfortune, malicious, embezzlement, architect, neighbours, accustomed, temporary, behaviour, documents.
Q3. Look up the phrases and use in your own sentences:
(i) You may take it that – You may take it that I will finish the work on time.
(ii) He seems to be coming round – He seems to be coming round to my opinion.
(iii) My foot’s gone to sleep – My foot’s gone to sleep after sitting so long.
Reported Speech
Q1. Fill in the blanks:
1. To report a question, we use the reporting verb asked.
2. To report a statement, we use the reporting verb said.
3. The adverb of place *here* changes to there.
4. When the verb in direct speech is present tense, it changes to past tense in reported speech.
5. Present continuous changes to past continuous (e.g., is getting → was getting).
6. Words denoting respect – add adverb politely.
7. Pronouns *I, me, our, mine* change according to subject/object like he, him, their, his.
Q2. Rewrite the article excerpt from Times of India into reported speech.
Answer: (Students rewrite direct sentences as reported speech, keeping others unchanged.)
Speaking and Writing
Q1. Anger Management: ill effects and solutions.
Answer: Ill effects – hurt relationships, poor decision-making, stress.
Solutions – take deep breaths, walk away, think calmly.
Benefits – expressing feelings in a controlled way, maintaining honesty.
Q2. Prepare a script based on *The Home and the World* excerpt.
Answer: Write five exchanges between characters with stage directions, tone, and gestures.
Q3. Discuss qualities in a marriage partner.
Answer: Personal qualities – honesty, sense of humour, kind.
Values – compassion, tolerance, ambition.
Education/profession – well-educated, responsible.
Q4. Compare play scenes to romantic comedies.
Answer: The quarrels, misunderstandings, and funny compliments remind one of romantic comedy films.