CBSE Class 9 English Chapter 3 The Man Who Knew Too Much Question Answers (Important) from Literature Reader (Communicative) Book
The Man Who Knew Too Much Question Answers – Looking for The Man Who Knew Too Much question answers for Class 9 English Literature Reader (Communicative) book Chapter 3? Look no further! Our comprehensive compilation of important questions will help you brush up on your subject knowledge. Practising Class 9 English Communicative question answers can significantly improve your performance in the exam. Our solutions provide a clear idea of how to write the answers effectively. Improve your chances of scoring high marks by exploring Chapter 3: The Man Who Knew Too Much now. The questions listed below are based on the latest CBSE exam pattern, wherein we have given solutions to the chapter’s extract based questions, short answer questions, and long answer questions.
Also, practising with different kinds of questions can help students learn new ways to solve problems that they may not have seen before. This can ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of the subject matter and better performance on exams.
- The Man Who Knew Too Much Textbook Questions
- The Man Who Knew Too Much Extract Based Question
- The Man Who Knew Too Much Short Question Answers
- The Man Who Knew Too Much Long Question Answers
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The Man Who Knew Too Much Textbook Questions
Exercise
Q1. The ‘Professor’ knew too much. How did he prove himself? Fill up the space with suitable examples from the story, using the given clues:
(a) about muzzle velocity: _______________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
(b) after a thirty mile walk: _______________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
(c) his salute on payday: ________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
(d) the loud sound of a high flying invisible aeroplane: _______________________
__________________________________________________________________
(e) about hand grenades: _______________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
(f) during cookhouse duties: _____________________________________________
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Ans.
(a) about muzzle velocity – When the Sergeant was lecturing them about the rifle’s muzzle velocity being over two thousand feet per second, Quelch interrupts and corrects him that it is two thousand four hundred and forty feet per second.
(b) after a thirty mile walk – All the soldiers are tired after a thirty mile walk but Quelch is in high spirits. He enthusiastically asks them if they would like to sing a song along with him which is irritating to the tired soldiers.
(c) his salute on payday – On payday Quelch salutes perfectly and it is worth seeing. When he sees his seniors, he marches perfectly, swinging his thin arms just like a guardsman.
(d) the loud sound of a high flying invisible aeroplane – All the soldiers were proud that they could recognize aeroplanes. One day as they were lazying in the park, they could not even see the aeroplane flying overhead due to the bright glare of the Sun. On the other hand, Quelch announced that it was undoubtedly the North American Harvard Trainer, which could be unmistakably identified by the harsh engine note, due to the high tip speed of the airscrew. This made the other soldiers feel low in front of him.
(e) about hand grenades – When Corporal Turnbull was giving a lecture on grenades, their segments, etc. Quelch interrupted and suggested him to begin with the five characteristics of a grenade. This did not go well with Turnbll who asked Quelch to give the lecture instead. Afterwards, he put Quelch on permanent duty as a cook.
(f) during cook house duties- One day when the writer and his friend were crossing the canteen they saw three cooks. They heard Quelch’s familiar voice criticizing the cooks for their extremely dirty and bad ways of peeling potatoes. This according to him led to wastage of the vitamin values of the potatoes.
Q2. Based on your reading of the story, answer the following questions by choosing the correct options.
(a) Private Quelch was nick-named ‘Professor’ because of ________
(i) his appearance.
(ii) his knowledge.
(iii) his habit of reading.
(iv) his habit of sermonising.
Ans. (iv) his habit of sermonising.
(b) One could hammer nails into Corporal Turnbull without his noticing it because _______
(i) he was a strong and sturdy man.
(ii) he was oblivious to his surroundings.
(iii) he was a brave corporal.
(iv) he was used to it.
Ans. (i) he was a strong and sturdy man.
(c) The author and his friend Trower fled from the scene as
(i) they had to catch a train
(ii) they could not stand Private Quelch exhibiting his knowledge
(iii) they felt they would have to lend a helping hand.
(iv) they did not want to meet the cooks.
Ans. (ii) they could not stand Private Quelch exhibiting his knowledge
d) The main reason that the Professor remain unflinched despite the retaliation of his batch-mates was due to the fact that
(i) his desire to impress people overruled the humiliation he experienced each time.
(ii) his miraculously tireless personality couldn’t stop him from working extra hard.
(iii) he was so involved in excelling that he barely noticed sarcastic comments.
(iv) he knew that the only way to earn respect is through hard work.
Ans. (iii) he was so involved in excelling that he barely noticed sarcastic comments.
e) Choose the expression that uses the same literary device as used in the line “he was so tough that you could hammer nails into him without his noticing it.”
(i) My mom made enough food to feed an army last night.
(ii) My alarm clock yells at me to get out of bed every morning.
(iii) The car complained as the key was roughly turned in its ignition.
(iv) Lightning danced across the sky like a fairy beating against the clouds.
Ans. (iv) Lightning danced across the sky like a fairy beating against the clouds.
Q3. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow:
1. Without even a glance upward the Professor announced, “That, of course, is a North American Harvard Trainer. It can be unmistakably identified by the harsh engine note, due to the high tip speed of the airscrew.” What could a gang of louts like us do with a man like that?
(i) Choose the option that best describes the traits of the Professor in the given extract.
1. patience
2. awareness
3. knowledge
4. flamboyance
5. kindness
a) 1, 2, 3
b) 2, 3, 4
c) 2, 3, 5
d) 3, 4, 5
Ans. b) 2, 3, 4
ii) The author refers to himself and his peers as ‘louts’ to
a) bring out the contrast with the Professor.
b) comment on the expertise in other fields.
c) draw attention to lack of teamwork in all.
d) accept the display of undisciplined behaviour.
Ans. d) accept the display of undisciplined behaviour.
2. In the silence that followed a dark flush stained the tan of the Corporal’s face. “Here,” he said at last, “you give this lecture”. As if afraid to say any more, he tossed the grenade to the Professor. Quite unabashed, Private Quelch climbed to his feet and with the attitude of a man coming into his birth-right gave us an unexceptionable lecture on the grenade.
i) Choose the statement that is NOT TRUE about the depiction of the scene described in the above lines.
a) Private Quelch knew more about hand grenades than Turnbull.
b) Turnbull was not someone who would let things go easily.
c) The entire batch was stunned at Quelch’s audacity.
d) Quelch was able to impress Turnbull with his vast knowledge.
Ans. a) Private Quelch knew more about hand grenades than Turnbull.
ii) The silence that follows Quelch’s remarks shows that the entire batch did not
a) wish to see Turnbull humiliated.
b) want Quelch embarrassed.
c) know how to react
d) care for the conversation.
Ans. c) know how to react
iii) The fact that Quelch delivered the lecture when asked to do so shows that he
a) wanted to teach Turnbull a valuable lesson.
b) failed to take the hint that Turnbull felt insulted.
c) knew when to flaunt his knowledge for his own benefit.
d) established himself as a man superior to Turnbull
Ans. c) knew when to flaunt his knowledge for his own benefit.
Q4. Answer the following questions briefly.
1. What is a ‘nickname’? Can you suggest another one for Private Quelch?
Ans. A nickname is a name that may be given to somebody in addition to his actual name. This nickname may represent the person’s unique traits or his intellect. ‘Mr. Know it all’ could be another one for Private Quelch as he had knowledge of all the things by heart.
2. Private Quelch looked like a ‘Professor’ when the author first met him at the training depot. Why?
Ans. Private Quelch was a thin, tall, stooping man with a frown on his face. He wore peculiar spectacles and so, his appearance earned him the nickname of ‘professor’.
3. What does the dark, sun-dried appearance of the Sergeant suggest about him?
Ans. The Sergeant was dark and looked wrinkled like a dry raisin. He was knowledgeable as he took a class in usage of the rifle. He wore the ribbons which showed his service in the North West Frontier Province. This shows that he had spent all his life serving the army. He could not be impressed or angered easily.
4. How was Private Quelch’s knowledge exposed even further as the Sergeant’s classes went on?
Ans. Private Quelch not only corrected the Sergeant as to the speed of the gunshot but also answered all the questions directed to him. He knew everything – technical definitions, parts of a rifle, its use and care.
5. What did the Professor mean by “intelligent reading”?
Ans. By “intelligent reading” the professor meant that he read every detail carefully. If he did not understand anything, he made it a point to clear his doubts from his seniors. He did not read but used his intelligence to memorise all that he read.
6. What were the Professor’s ambitions in the army?
Ans. The professor was keen to get commissioned into the army. His first target was to earn a stripe.
7. Did Private Quelch’s day to day practices take him closer towards his goal? How can you make out?
Ans. Quelch was hard working, intelligent and determined. He tried to impress his seniors by marching well in front of them. He interrupted and corrected them during the lectures which irritated them. So, finally he ended up in the kitchen as a permanent cook. Therefore, Private Quelch’s day-to-day practices did not take him closer towards his goal.
8. How did Private Quelch manage to anger the Corporal?
Ans. The Corporal was lecturing the unit on a grenade. He was telling them about its fragments and parts. Quelch interrupted and corrected him on the number of segments in a grenade. Also, he suggested that he begin the class with the five characteristics of a grenade. This interruption infuriated the Corporal.
9. Do you think Private Quelch learnt a lesson when he was chosen for cookhouse duties? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans. Private Quelch was satisfied with his job. He was content and did not bother about what others thought of him. He must have been disappointed temporarily but his lecture to fellow cooks shows that he was performing his duty with sincerity. He was a thick head and would not change.
Class 9 Communicative English The Man Who Knew Too Much Question Answers Chapter 3 – Extract Based Question
A. ‘I first met Private Quelch at the training depot. A man is liable to acquire in his first
week of Army life – together with his uniform, rifle and equipment- a nickname. Anyone who saw Private Quelch, lanky, stooping, frowning through horn-rimmed spectacles, understood why he was known as the Professor. Those who had any doubts on the subject lost them after five minutes’ conversation with him.’
1. Why is Private Quelch nicknamed the Professor?
Ans. Private Quelch is nicknamed the Professor due to his lanky appearance, stooping posture, and the habit of frowning through horn-rimmed spectacles, giving him an intellectual demeanor.
2. How does the Professor’s behavior impact his relationships with others in the training camp?
Ans. The Professor’s habit of publicly correcting and criticizing others creates resentment and a negative atmosphere, leading to isolation and tension among his peers.
3. How does the Professor plan to progress within the military hierarchy?
Ans. The Professor aims to get a commission and, as a first step, intends to earn a stripe through hard work and dedication.
4. How would you describe Private Quelch’s physical appearance based on the text?
Ans. Lanky, stooping, and frowning through horn-rimmed spectacles.
5. What does the nickname “Professor” imply about Private Quelch’s personality?
Ans. It implies an intellectual or knowledgeable demeanor.
B. ‘I remember the first lesson we had in musketry. We stood in an attentive circle
while a Sergeant, a man as dark and sun-dried as raisins, wearing North-West Frontier ribbons, described the mechanism of a service rifle. “The muzzle velocity or speed at which the bullet leaves the rifle”, he told us, “is well over two thousand feet per second.” A voice interrupted. “Two thousand, four hundred and forty feet per second.” It was the Professor.’
1. How does Corporal Turnbull react to the Professor’s corrections during the musketry lesson?
Ans. Corporal Turnbull reacts without enthusiasm but acknowledges the Professor’s correction and continues with the lecture.
2. What is a synonym for “attentive” as used in the text?
Ans. Alert is a synonym for “attentive” as used in the text.
3. What does the term “North-West Frontier ribbons” suggest about the Sergeant’s service?
Ans. It suggests that the Sergeant served in the North-West Frontier and earned decorations or ribbons for his service there.
4. What is the meaning of “muzzle velocity” as mentioned in the text?
Ans. It refers to the speed at which the bullet leaves the rifle.
5. How does the Professor’s behavior change over time?
Ans. Over time, the Professor becomes condescending and overbearing, often overshadowing others and showing a lack of humility.
C. ‘None of us will ever forget the drowsy summer afternoon which was such a turning-point in the Professor’s life. We were sprawling contentedly on the warm grass while Corporal Turnbull was taking a lesson on the hand grenade. Corporal Turnbull was a young man, but he was not a man to be trifled with.’
1.What does the term “turning-point” imply about the mentioned afternoon?
Ans. It suggests that the afternoon marked a significant change or shift in the Professor’s life.
2. How would you describe Corporal Turnbull based on the text?
Ans. Young and not someone to be trifled with, suggesting toughness.
3. What is a synonym for “drowsy” as used in the text?
Ans. Sleepy is a synonym for “drowsy” as used in the text.
4. Describe the turning point in the Professor’s life mentioned in the text.
Ans. The turning point occurs during a lesson on hand grenades when the Professor corrects Corporal Turnbull, leading to Corporal Turnbull nominating him for permanent cookhouse duties.
5. How does Corporal Turnbull react to the Professor’s corrections during the lesson on hand grenades?
Ans. Corporal Turnbull becomes visibly disturbed and eventually hands over the lecture to the Professor, leading to significant consequences.
D. ‘Of course, it was a joke for days afterwards; a joke and joy to all of us.
I remember, though……………………..
My friend Trower and I were talking about it a few days later. We were returning from the canteen to our own hut. Through the open door, we could see the three cooks standing against the wall as if at bay; and from within came the monotonous beat of a familiar voice. “Really. I must protest against this abominably unscientific and unhygienic method of peeling potatoes. I need to only draw your attention to the sheer waste of vitamin values…………………..”
We fled.’
1. What is the tone of the passage in the sentence “Of course, it was a joke for days afterwards; a joke and joy to all of us”?
Ans. The tone of the passage in the sentence “Of course, it was a joke for days afterwards; a joke and joy to all of us” is humorous.
2. What does the ellipsis (…) suggest in the sentence “I remember, though………………………………………………..”?
Ans. It indicates a pause or omission, leaving a thought unfinished by the narrator.
3. How does the atmosphere change from joy to tension in the passage?
Ans. The atmosphere changes as the Professor protests against the method of peeling potatoes, introducing tension and disagreement.
4. What does the phrase “as if at bay” imply about the cooks standing against the wall?
Ans. It suggests that the cooks may feel cornered or defensive, facing a challenging situation.
5. What is the Professor protesting against in the cookhouse, and how does he express his dissatisfaction?
Ans. The Professor is protesting against the method of peeling potatoes, expressing his dissatisfaction with the “abominably unscientific and unhygienic” approach and highlighting the waste of vitamin values.
Class 9 Communicative English The Man Who Knew Too Much Short Question Answers
Q1. Who was Private Quelch ? Where did the narrator meet him ?
Ans. Private Quelch was a knowledgeable and bookish soldier in the army. The narrator met him during basic training at a camp in Yorkshire. Quelch’s intelligence and eagerness to showcase his knowledge often made him stand out among his peers.
Q2. Aircraft recognition was a matter of pride for the narrator and his friends in the lesson “The Man Who Knew Too Much”. How did the Professor humiliate them?
Ans. During a plane’s drone, the Professor confidently identified it as a North American Harvard Trainer, humiliating the narrator and friends who couldn’t recognize it. This incident highlighted the Professor’s expertise and their lack thereof.
Q3. Why was Private Quelch labeled as the ‘Professor’?
Ans. Private Quelch earned the moniker ‘Professor’ due to his serious demeanor, horn-rimmed spectacles, and extensive knowledge. His habit of sermonizing and finding fault with others contributed to his fellow trainees labeling him as such.
Q4. How did Private Quelch respond to mistakes made by his colleagues in the army training camp in the lesson ‘The Man Who Knew Much’?
Ans. Private Quelch promptly corrected mistakes made by colleagues in the army training camp, intervening to demonstrate proper rifle handling. Despite good intentions, his habit of public correction generated resentment among fellow trainees.
Q5. Who is an Orderly Officer in the lesson ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’? How did the Professor behave in front of him?
Ans. The Orderly Officer, an officer of the day, became the focus of the Professor’s efforts to please. The Professor meticulously cleaned his hut, outshining fellow trainees, aiming for the officer’s approval and praise.
Q6. What was Private Quelch’s attitude towards his seniors? Give examples to support your answer.
Ans. Private Quelch’s irritating attitude towards his seniors included interrupting the Sergeant to cite the bullet’s exact speed and intervening with Corporal Turnbull, asserting a grenade’s precise fragmentation count, showcasing an impractical and tactless approach.
Q7. Describe Private Quelch.
Ans. Private Quelch, a young trainee soldier, was lanky, stooping, and serious, donning horn-rimmed spectacles. Possessing remarkable knowledge, he garnered jealousy among peers and earned the title of Professor.
Q8. What was Turnbull’s reaction to Private Quelch’s answer?
Ans. Corporal Turnbull reacted angrily to Private Quelch’s interruption, tightening his brow and nominating him for a lecture on grenades in place of him. This was a retaliatory action to teach Private Quelch a lesson.
Q9. What was Private Quelch’s attitude to his juniors? Give examples to support your answer.
Ans. Private Quelch’s superior attitude toward juniors irked everyone. He once intervened to correct someone’s rifle handling and, at the end of a tiring march, suggested singing, displaying an attitude that was resented by all.
Q10. What was the announcement made by Corporal Turnbull in the lesson ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’? Why did he make the announcement?
Ans. Corporal Turnbull announced the nomination of Private Quelch for permanent cookhouse duties, seeking revenge for the humiliation and corrections endured. This action was taken to put Private Quelch in his place.
Q11. Why did Private Quelch’s knowledge and habits make him an outcast among his peers?
Ans. Private Quelch’s extensive knowledge and habit of correcting others, even superiors, made him an outcast as his actions were perceived as arrogant and disruptive.
Q12. How did Private Quelch’s attitude towards his fellow trainees change when he was nominated for cookhouse duties?
Ans. Private Quelch’s attitude remained steadfast even after being nominated for cookhouse duties. He continued his interruptions and sermons, revealing a lack of humility or change in behavior.
Q13. In what ways did the Professor’s aspirations in the army conflict with his actual conduct?
Ans. The Professor aspired for a commission, yet his impractical and tactless behavior, including public corrections and interruptions, conflicted with the disciplined conduct expected in the army.
Q14. Why did Corporal Turnbull take revenge on Private Quelch by assigning him permanent cookhouse duties?
Ans. Corporal Turnbull sought revenge on Private Quelch for humiliating him in front of others. Assigning him permanent cookhouse duties was a punitive measure to put him in his place.
Q15. How did Private Quelch’s behavior impact the morale of the army training camp?
Ans. Private Quelch’s behavior, marked by constant corrections and interruptions, adversely affected the morale of the army training camp, creating tension and resentment among trainees.
Q16. What was the significance of aircraft recognition in “The Man Who Knew Too Much,” and how did the Professor excel in this area?
Ans. Aircraft recognition was a point of pride, and the Professor excelled by confidently identifying an aircraft as a North American Harvard Trainer, showcasing his expertise and humiliating others.
Q17. Describe Corporal Turnbull.
Ans. Corporal Turnbull was a robust man boasting of his physical toughness. Having returned from Dunkirk, he was tough, serious, and somewhat revengeful. His retaliation against Private Quelch showcased his no-nonsense attitude.
Q18. Did Private Quelch’s day-to-day practices take him closer towards his goal? How can you make out?
Ans. No, Private Quelch’s daily practices distanced him from his goal. His public interruptions and corrections antagonized peers and instructors, leading to his assignment to permanent cookhouse duties.
Q19. What did the Professor mean by “intelligent reading”?
Ans. “Intelligent reading” for the Professor meant thorough understanding. He didn’t read casually but committed to memory, emphasizing a comprehensive grasp of the material.
Q20. Narrate in your own words the incident that proved to be a turning point in Private Quelch’s life.
Ans. The turning point in Private Quelch’s life occurred when, hopeful of a commission, he corrected Corporal Turnbull about a grenade’s fragments. This led to his punishment—permanent cookhouse duties—hindering his ambition.
Class 9 Communicative English The Man Who Knew Too Much Long Answer Questions Chapter 3
Q1. Evaluate the characteristics that made Private Quelch unpopular in the army training camp. How did his habit of flaunting knowledge impact his relationships with both juniors and seniors, and what role did it play in his ultimate downfall?
Ans. Private Quelch’s unpopularity in the army training camp was rooted in his habit of flaunting knowledge, alienating both juniors and seniors. His condescending demeanor towards subordinates bred resentment, while his incessant corrections of superiors, notably Sergeant and Corporal Turnbull, aggravated them. This behavior eroded the essential bonds of camaraderie and respect crucial for military cohesion. Ultimately, Quelch’s downfall was sealed as his disruptive actions led to his nomination for menial cookhouse duties—a symbolic retribution for his arrogance. This narrative serves as a poignant lesson on the detrimental impact of hubris and the significance of humility in fostering positive relationships within a military environment.
Q2. Examine Private Quelch’s ambitions and the incident that barred him from realizing them. How did his desire for a commission clash with the impracticalities of his approach in the army training camp?
Ans. Private Quelch aspired to obtain a commission in the army, but his impractical and tactless approach hindered his ambitions. The incident where he corrected Corporal Turnbull proved disastrous, leading to his assignment to permanent cookhouse duties. This clash between ambition and reality highlighted the impracticalities of Quelch’s approach in the army training camp. His obsessive focus on showcasing knowledge, rather than displaying humility and adaptability, became a significant obstacle to his commission aspirations. The incident underscored the importance of a balanced and pragmatic approach when navigating the hierarchical structure of the military, emphasizing that ambition must be tempered with practicality for success in such environments.
Q3. Explore the impact of Private Quelch’s behavior on the overall morale of the army training camp during a long march. How did his suggestions and attitude affect the camaraderie among the trainees?
Ans. During a long march in the army training camp, Private Quelch’s behavior had a detrimental impact on overall morale. His indifferent attitude toward physical exertion and lack of empathy was evident when he suggested singing at the end of the march, despite the fatigue felt by others. This not only showcased a disregard for the challenges his fellow trainees were facing but also triggered anger and resentment. Instead of fostering camaraderie, Quelch’s suggestions highlighted a disconnect with his peers, hindering the development of a cohesive and supportive military unit. His attitude underscored the importance of shared experiences and mutual understanding in building morale during strenuous training activities.
Q4 Delve into the reasons behind Corporal Turnbull’s decision to nominate Private Quelch for permanent cookhouse duties. How did this action serve as a form of retaliation, and what impact did it have on the power dynamics within the camp?
Ans. Corporal Turnbull’s decision to assign Private Quelch to permanent cookhouse duties was a retaliatory response to the perceived disrespect of being corrected. Smarting from the humiliation, Corporal Turnbull aimed to put Quelch in his place and teach him a lesson. This punitive action not only humbled Private Quelch but also had a significant impact on power dynamics within the camp. It sent a clear message that insubordination, regardless of knowledge, would not be tolerated. The move reinforced the strict military hierarchy and discipline, asserting the authority of the leadership and maintaining order within the training camp.
Q5 Examine the aftermath of Private Quelch’s shift to the cookhouse. How did this move affect the dynamics of the army training camp, and what reactions did it evoke among the remaining trainees?
Ans. Private Quelch’s transition to the cookhouse brought about a notable transformation in the dynamics of the army training camp. The absence of his constant fault-finding and interruptions provided a sense of relief to his peers. The camp experienced a positive shift as the disruptive element was removed, allowing trainees to concentrate on their training without the burden of constant interruptions and judgments. This change fostered a more cohesive and positive environment within the camp. With Private Quelch no longer overshadowing camaraderie, the remaining trainees could engage in their activities with greater focus and unity, contributing to an improved overall atmosphere within the training camp.
Q6 Discuss the impact of Private Quelch’s meticulous hut cleaning on the Orderly Officer’s perception of him. How did this attention to detail reflect the Professor’s desire for approval within the military structure?
Ans. Private Quelch’s meticulous hut cleaning had a profound impact on the Orderly Officer’s perception of him. The meticulous attention to detail demonstrated Quelch’s commitment to discipline and order. The impressed Orderly Officer, acknowledging the thoroughness, offered praise. This incident underscored Private Quelch’s inherent desire for approval within the military hierarchy. Beyond his intellectual pursuits and aspirations for a commission, the meticulous hut cleaning revealed the Professor’s broader ambition for recognition and validation from superiors. It highlighted how, in both significant and mundane tasks, Quelch sought acknowledgment, emphasizing his multifaceted quest for approval within the structured environment of the army training camp.
Q7 Elaborate on the conflicting aspirations and behavior of the Professor in the army training camp. How did his impractical and tactless approach hinder his progress toward achieving his goals?
Ans. The Professor in the army training camp held aspirations of earning a stripe and commission, yet his behavior presented a stark contrast to these goals. His impractical and tactless approach, characterized by public corrections and interruptions, became a significant obstacle to his progress. Instead of fostering positive relationships, the Professor’s actions alienated him from both superiors and peers. This conduct, rather than propelling him closer to his ambitions, hindered his advancement. The lack of humility and an inability to navigate the military hierarchy with diplomacy and respect ultimately derailed the Professor from realizing his goals. This scenario underscores the vital importance of a balanced and pragmatic approach in the military, where interpersonal skills are as crucial as individual achievements.
Q8 Explore the turning point in Private Quelch’s life when he was nominated for permanent cookhouse duties. How did this incident impact his ambitions and relationships within the camp?
Ans. The turning point in Private Quelch’s life unfolded when he, driven by aspirations of obtaining a commission, corrected Corporal Turnbull regarding grenade fragments. This act of defiance proved costly, resulting in his nomination for permanent cookhouse duties. The incident marked a significant setback, shattering Quelch’s ambitions of achieving a commission. Beyond impacting his career trajectory, the punishment also transformed his relationships within the camp. Once regarded as knowledgeable and ambitious, Quelch became an outcast. His transition to the cookhouse not only affected his personal standing but also had a broader impact on the overall dynamics and interactions within the military community, highlighting the consequences of challenging authority in a structured environment.
Q9 “Too much knowledge is also a bane’. Comment on the statement with reference to Private Quelch’s character.
Ans. The statement “Too much knowledge is also a bane” finds resonance in the character of Private Quelch. While knowledge is generally regarded as an asset, Quelch’s excessive focus on showcasing his intellect becomes a drawback in the army training camp. His constant corrections, interruptions, and desire to flaunt his knowledge alienate him from his peers and superiors. Instead of fostering camaraderie, his approach becomes a source of irritation and resentment. The relentless pursuit of intellectual superiority becomes a hindrance, leading to his ultimate downfall when he is nominated for permanent cookhouse duties. This narrative illustrates that an imbalanced emphasis on knowledge, without consideration for social dynamics, can indeed become a disadvantage, supporting the notion that “too much knowledge is also a bane.”
Q10 Private Quelch’s ambition had blinded him. Analyze Corporal’s reaction to his behavior.
Ans. Corporal Turnbull’s reaction to Private Quelch’s behavior reflects a response to the imbalance caused by Quelch’s ambition. Quelch’s ambition, driven by a desire for a commission and recognition, blinds him to the practicalities of military life and the need for social integration within the camp.Corporal Turnbull, as a representative of authority and discipline, responds by nominating Private Quelch for permanent cookhouse duties. This action can be seen as a corrective measure and a form of discipline to reassert the hierarchical structure and maintain order within the training camp. Corporal Turnbull’s response suggests a disapproval of Quelch’s disruptive behavior, emphasizing the importance of humility, teamwork, and respect for authority in a military setting.
The corporal’s reaction may serve as a reminder that individual ambitions, if pursued without regard for the established norms and social dynamics, can lead to consequences that hinder rather than advance one’s goals. In this context, Corporal Turnbull’s response acts as a check on Quelch’s unchecked ambition, aiming to restore balance and discipline within the military environment.
Q11 “As a punishment Quelch was put on kitchen duties.” Imagine yourself as the author of the story “The Man Who Knew Too Much”. Write a letter to your friend explaining the reason for giving him such punishment.
Ans. Dear [Friend’s Name],
I trust this letter finds you well. I am writing to share some recent developments in the storyline of “The Man Who Knew Too Much.” Private Quelch, as you know, has been put on kitchen duties as a form of punishment.
The decision to assign Private Quelch to kitchen duties was not taken lightly. It stems from his persistent behavior of correcting and interrupting his superiors, especially after his corrections led to an incident with Corporal Turnbull. The act was seen as insubordination and a disruption of the military hierarchy, which is crucial for maintaining discipline within the training camp.
Private Quelch’s punishment serves as a lesson, a corrective measure aimed at instilling humility and reinforcing the importance of respecting authority. It’s not just about the specific incident with Corporal Turnbull but a response to the broader pattern of Quelch’s behavior, which has been a source of disruption and annoyance among his peers.I believe this development will add an interesting layer to the narrative, exploring the consequences of unchecked ambition and the clash between individual knowledge and the structured environment of military life.
Looking forward to discussing this further once you’ve had a chance to catch up on the latest chapters.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Q12 ‘Each time one of us made a mistake the Professor would publicly correct him.’
The ‘Professor’ was in the habit of finding faults. He would criticize anyone in public. Do you approve or disapprove of his behavior ? Should we make fun of others in public, even if they are wrong ? What would be the consequences if we do so ?
Ans. I strongly disapprove of the ‘Professor’s’ behavior of publicly correcting and criticizing others. Publicly pointing out mistakes and finding faults, especially in a demeaning manner, creates a hostile and unproductive environment. Such behavior diminishes morale, erodes trust, and disrupts the camaraderie essential for a cohesive team.Making fun of others in public, even if they are wrong, is equally objectionable. It not only humiliates individuals but also damages relationships, hindering open communication and collaboration. The consequences of such actions can be severe, leading to resentment, a breakdown in teamwork, and potentially damaging personal and professional relationships.
Private Quelch’s inclination to publicly find faults and correct others, even his superiors, is strongly disapproved. Such behavior not only lacks tact but also carries the risk of serious consequences. This approach jeopardizes relationships, potentially resulting in physical confrontations or harm to one’s career, especially when the criticized person holds power.
Q13 You are ‘Professor’. Write a diary entry after your first day at the cookhouse, describing the events that led to this assignment, also express your thoughts and feelings about the events of the day in about 150 words.
Ans. Dear Diary,
Today marked a rather unexpected turn in my journey within the army training camp. My foray into the cookhouse was not a voluntary exploration but rather a consequence of my relentless pursuit of knowledge and a regrettable incident with Corporal Turnbull.
My habitual corrections and interruptions, born out of a genuine desire for precision, took a toll on the patience of my superiors. Corporal Turnbull, perhaps weary of my constant corrections, decided that a stint in the cookhouse was the most fitting corrective measure. As I donned the apron and navigated the culinary challenges, I couldn’t help but reflect on the price one pays for unwavering adherence to intellectual pursuits.
The clang of pots and pans became a metaphorical echo of my momentary fall from grace. Yet, in this unfamiliar territory, I found a unique perspective. The cookhouse, despite its humble aura, presents an opportunity for camaraderie and learning beyond the confines of books. Perhaps, in the simmering pots and bustling kitchen, I’ll discover a different kind of knowledge.
Yours intellectually,
Professor
Q14 ‘It’s all a matter of intelligent reading’, said Private Quelch. Evaluate the statement on the basis of Professor’s character
Ans. Private Quelch’s statement, “It’s all a matter of intelligent reading,” reflects his belief in the significance of acquiring knowledge through thoughtful and discerning reading. However, when applied to the character of Professor (Private Quelch) in the lesson ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’, this statement takes on a certain irony.While the Professor is undoubtedly knowledgeable and well-read, his approach to sharing that knowledge lacks the intelligence and tact suggested by the statement. His penchant for publicly correcting others, regardless of their rank or situation, demonstrates a lack of social intelligence. The Professor’s emphasis on showcasing his intellect often overshadows the collaborative and adaptive aspects of military life, suggesting that his “intelligent reading” doesn’t necessarily translate into effective interpersonal skills.
In essence, Private Quelch’s statement underscores the importance of not just acquiring knowledge but also applying it intelligently, considering the context and the impact on interpersonal relationships. The Professor’s character, despite his intellectual pursuits, serves as a cautionary example of the limitations of knowledge without the wisdom to navigate social dynamics effectively.
Q15 Self-promotion always brings resentment from others. Keeping the above statement in mind, comment on the character of Private Quelch
Ans. The statement “Self-promotion always brings resentment from others” finds resonance in the character of Private Quelch, also known as the Professor, in the lesson ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’. Quelch’s constant self-promotion of his knowledge and intellect, often manifested through corrections and interruptions, indeed elicits resentment from his fellow soldiers.
Quelch’s desire to showcase his intelligence and correct others in public creates an atmosphere of irritation and alienation. His actions, rather than fostering camaraderie, generate resentment among his peers, who view him as arrogant and insufferable. The lack of humility and the incessant need to self-promote contribute to the negative perceptions surrounding Quelch. In the military setting, where teamwork and mutual respect are crucial, Quelch’s self-promotion becomes a source of tension. The character serves as a cautionary example, highlighting the potential consequences of excessive self-promotion within a group dynamic, leading to isolation and resentment from others.
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