Rainbow English Book Class 12 Solutions Chapter 11 A Marriage Proposal

Summary of Chapter 11: "A Marriage Proposal"

"A Marriage Proposal" is a one-act play by Anton Chekhov. It is a humorous satire that explores the absurdities of human behavior, particularly in the realm of marriage proposals.

Plot Summary: The play is set in the house of a man named Stepan Stepanovich Chubukov, who is a landowner. The story revolves around his daughter Natalya Stepanovna and a neighbor, Ivan Vassilevich Lomov, who comes to propose to her. Lomov is a nervous and hypochondriac man, and Chubukov, although willing to see him marry his daughter, is equally worried about Lomov's eccentric behavior.

Key Events:

Lomov's Proposal: Lomov visits Chubukov's house with the intention of proposing to Natalya. However, he is very nervous and starts the conversation in a strange manner. He mentions his intention to propose, but before he can get to the point, he begins discussing trivial matters, such as the fine qualities of his dogs, which causes confusion.
Argument Over Dogs: Just as Lomov is about to propose, an argument breaks out between Lomov and Natalya over the ownership of a dog. Lomov claims that his dog, Squeezer, is superior to Natalya's dog, Guess. This petty argument escalates quickly, and they both become heated in their defense of their dogs.
Chubukov's Intervention: Chubukov intervenes, trying to calm them down, but his interference only makes things worse. Lomov becomes increasingly agitated, and he declares that he is suffering from heart palpitations. Chubukov, seeing the situation deteriorating, decides to play along and encourages Lomov to propose to Natalya.
The Proposal and Resolution: Eventually, Lomov manages to propose, but before Natalya can respond, another argument erupts, this time over a piece of land. Lomov claims ownership of the land, but Natalya insists that it belongs to her family. The two continue to quarrel, completely ignoring the proposal.
Finally, after much back-and-forth, they both calm down and agree to get married. Chubukov is pleased, and they celebrate the engagement.

Themes:

Absurdity of Social Conventions: The play humorously critiques the trivial and absurd nature of marriage proposals and social conventions. The characters are more concerned with petty arguments than with the significance of the marriage itself.
Human Foibles: Through characters like Lomov, who is prone to exaggeration and hypochondria, and Natalya, who is stubborn and argumentative, the play highlights the flaws and irrationalities of human nature.
Marriage as a Social Transaction: The play portrays marriage as a social contract more than a romantic relationship. The focus on property, dogs, and land illustrates how social status and material concerns dominate over personal feelings.

Characters:

Stepan Stepanovich Chubukov: Natalya’s father, a landowner who is eager to see his daughter married but is often caught up in the arguments between the characters.
Natalya Stepanovna: Chubukov's daughter, who is well-educated but has a fiery temper, which leads to her frequent arguments with Lomov.
Ivan Vassilevich Lomov: A hypochondriac and nervous neighbor who wishes to marry Natalya. He is obsessed with trivial details and often gets into petty arguments.

Conclusion:

"A Marriage Proposal" ends on a humorous note, with the characters agreeing to marry despite the ridiculousness of the events leading up to it. The play uses comedy to critique the social norms surrounding marriage and relationships, revealing how individuals often let petty disputes cloud more important matters.

Bihar Board Class 12 English A Marriage Proposal Text Book Questions and Answers

A. Work in Small Groups and Discuss the Following:

How are marriages settled in your family?
Answer:- In many families, marriages are traditionally arranged by parents. They consider factors such as family background, education, culture, and social status. Sometimes, personal compatibility and the wishes of the couple are also considered. In modern times, some families may also allow the couple to make the final decision.
What are the major factors that decide the relation of brides/grooms?

Answer:- Major factors include compatibility, social status, family background, educational qualifications, and financial stability. Personal qualities such as respect, understanding, and mutual interests are also important. In some cases, horoscope matching or cultural norms may play a role.

B. 1.1. Read the Following Sentences and Write ‘T’ for True and ‘F’ for False:

Lomov is a neighbour of the Stepanovnas. ( T )
He wore the morning coat to attend a party. ( F ) (Lomov wore it because he was coming to propose to Natalia, not for a party.)
Mr. Chubukov becomes angry to know Lomov’s desire. ( F ) (Mr. Chubukov is pleased and eager to accept Lomov’s proposal.)
Lomov is a man of nervous temperament. ( T )
Natalia is a quiet and peace-loving lady. ( F ) (Natalia is passionate and argumentative.)
The ownership of Ox-meadows is disputed. ( T )

B. 1.2. Answer the Following Questions Briefly:

How is Lomov greeted by Chubukov?
Answer:- Chubukov greets Lomov warmly, calling him a "good fellow" and a "man of honour."
How does Chubukov react when he comes to know that Lomov wants to marry Natalia?
Answer:- Chubukov is pleased and overjoyed. He immediately supports the idea and tries to arrange the marriage, seeing it as a good match for his daughter.
Why does Lomov think that this is a critical age?
Answer:- Lomov believes he is at a critical age because he is not getting any younger and feels the need to settle down and get married before it’s too late.
Why does Lomov feel nervous before proposing to Natalia?
Answer:- Lomov is nervous because he is unsure whether Natalia will accept him, and he worries about the possibility of rejection.
Why is Natalia afraid that all her hay may rot?
Answer:- Natalia is concerned about the hay rotting because the weather conditions have not been ideal, and she fears losing the harvest, which is crucial for her family's livelihood.
What according to her, is the real worth of Ox-meadows?
Answer:- According to Natalia, the Ox-meadows are of great value because they are fertile and crucial for grazing her cattle.
Who, according to Lomov, had let the meadows and to whom?
Answer:- According to Lomov, his aunt had leased the meadows to Chubukov’s father.

B. 2.1. Read the Following Sentences and Write ‘T’ for True and ‘F’ for False:

Chubukov supports Lomov’s claim over Ox-meadows. ( F ) (Chubukov initially disagrees with Lomov's claim.)
His peasants used the land for forty years. ( T )
It is Natalia who threatens to take the matter to court. ( T )
She does not use abusive language with Lomov. ( F ) (Natalia uses harsh language and insults Lomov.)
She feels delighted to have behaved decently with Lomov. ( F ) (She feels regretful after their argument and her rude behavior.)

B. 2.2. Answer the Following Questions Briefly:

What is Lomov’s explanation of Ox-meadow becoming a disputed piece of land?
Answer:- Lomov claims that his aunt had leased the land to Chubukov's father and that they had an agreement, which Chubukov now disputes.
What does Chubukov say about Lomov’s father and grandfather?
Answer:- Chubukov speaks of Lomov’s family with respect but also mentions their history of disputes over land, implying that Lomov is continuing this tradition.
Why does Lomov refer to the land settlement?
Answer:- Lomov refers to the land settlement to assert his claim over the Ox-meadows and prove that they belong to him, not to Chubukov.
Why does he complain all the time of palpitation and veins throbbing?
Answer:- Lomov complains about these symptoms because he is anxious and nervous about his proposal to Natalia, which causes him stress and physical discomfort.
Why does Natalia cry and weep to know that Lomov has come to propose to her?
Answer:- Natalia is overwhelmed with emotion and confused. She is initially unaware of Lomov’s intentions, and when she realizes he wants to propose, she becomes emotional.

B. 3.1. Read the Following Sentences and Write ‘T’ for True and ‘F’ for False:

Lomov refuses to come back to Natalia. ( F ) (Lomov does not refuse; he keeps coming back to discuss matters with Natalia.)
The name of Lomov’s dog is Leap. ( T )
Chubukov bought his dog for eighty-five rubles. ( F ) (Chubukov bought his dog for more than that.)
According to Lomov, Leap is pug-jawed. ( T )
Lomov claims to have the memory of an elephant. ( T )
Chubukov thinks that Lomov is possessed by some ‘demon of contradiction’. ( T )
Lomov faints when he realizes that he will not succeed in marrying Natalia. ( T )
Chubukov takes the lead to settle the marriage of his daughter with Lomov. ( T )

B. 3.2. Complete the Following Sentences on the Basis of the Unit You Have Just Studied:

(a) It is not very nice of you to argue with your neighbours.(b) Do you think I may rely on her accepting me?(c) I’m always getting terribly worked up.(d) I was so greedy that I had the whole meadows ploughed.(e) I have had the pleasure of knowing your family.(f) Your Leap lags behind by half a mile.(g) You only tag along in order to compete with other people’s dogs.

B. 3.3. Answer the Following Questions Briefly:

Why does Natalia want to talk about something else?
Answer:- Natalia wants to change the topic to avoid talking about the meadows and the arguments with Lomov, as they have already reached a boiling point.
What, according to Lomov, is the main defect of Leap?
Answer:- According to Lomov, Leap is pug-jawed and has an imperfect appearance, which he criticizes.
How does Natalia describe her own pet dog, Leap?
Answer:- Natalia describes her dog as a magnificent and well-trained animal, claiming it is far superior to Lomov’s dog.
‘That’s a load off my back.’ What is this ‘load’? Why does Chubukov say so?
Answer:- The "load" refers to the stress and worry that Chubukov has been feeling about whether Lomov would propose to Natalia. When he hears that Lomov has finally done so, Chubukov feels relieved.

C. 1. Long Answer Questions:

Question 1. On the basis of your reading of Scene I, do you think that Lomov and Chubukov are cordial neighbours?

Answer: Lomov and Chubukov, though living as neighbours, do not share a cordial relationship. In Scene I, their interaction is marked by tension and a lack of warmth. Lomov visits Chubukov to propose marriage to his daughter, Natalia, but before he can even make his proposal, the conversation quickly shifts to a dispute over Ox-meadows. Both men argue heatedly, accusing each other of unfair claims over the meadows. Lomov is a nervous and irritable person, while Chubukov is quick to react angrily. Their relationship appears to be one of mutual antagonism rather than genuine cordiality. While Chubukov is initially supportive of Lomov’s proposal, his rudeness and readiness to argue suggest that the relationship between the two is strained and not very friendly.

Question 2. Write a short note on the character of Lomov on the basis of his self-revelation in Scene II.

Answer: In Scene II, Lomov's character is revealed to be that of a nervous, insecure, and somewhat pompous man. He is highly sensitive about his age and social standing, and this insecurity becomes apparent when he mentions that he is in a "critical age" and must marry soon. His self-revelation also highlights his lack of confidence, especially when it comes to proposing to Natalia. He often gets distracted by trivial arguments, such as the dispute over the Ox-meadows and his dog, Leap, which further reveals his inability to focus on the main issue. Lomov’s constant complaints about his health, including palpitations and throbbing veins, suggest his hypochondriacal nature. His self-doubt and exaggerated concern about his condition make him appear somewhat comical, but they also underscore his emotional instability and need for reassurance.

Question 3. Are Lomov and Natalia really interested in laying claim to Ox-meadows?

Answer: No, Lomov and Natalia are not truly interested in laying claim to the Ox-meadows for their intrinsic value. Both are more concerned about the pride and ego associated with proving their ownership. Lomov’s initial intention of proposing to Natalia is constantly interrupted by the dispute over the meadows, which suggests that the argument is more about asserting dominance than about the actual value of the land. Similarly, Natalia's reaction to the dispute shows that her focus is more on winning the argument rather than understanding the land's significance. Both characters use the argument as a means of trying to assert their superiority, which shows that the Ox-meadows are merely a pretext for the underlying rivalry between them.

Question 4. Do you think that Natalia was also interested in marrying Lomov? What makes you think so?

Answer: Yes, Natalia was interested in marrying Lomov, though her interest is somewhat hidden beneath her argumentative and strong-willed nature. Initially, she seems reluctant, but as the conversation progresses, she becomes more excited and eager to accept Lomov’s proposal. Her reaction to Lomov’s attempts to propose, especially after the argument about the meadows and the dogs, reveals her emotional involvement. When Lomov faints, Natalia shows genuine concern, which indicates that she cares for him. Moreover, her willingness to eventually accept Lomov, despite his nervousness and the absurd arguments, shows that she does have feelings for him, although her initial attitude is masked by her stubbornness and pride.

Question 5. Despite his heated arguments with Lomov, Chubukov in the last scene shows haste in finalizing the marriage. What could be the reason for his haste?

Answer: Chubukov's haste in finalizing the marriage is likely driven by several factors. First, he seems to believe that the marriage is a good match for his daughter, and he is eager to secure it for her. Despite the heated arguments, Chubukov realizes that Lomov is a good catch, as he is from a respectable family and is financially stable. Moreover, Chubukov may be concerned that Lomov could change his mind or that the opportunity for marriage might slip away. His haste could also stem from a sense of desperation to settle the matter, as the earlier arguments suggest a certain urgency on his part. Ultimately, Chubukov’s actions reflect his desire to quickly close the deal, even if it means overlooking the arguments and disputes between Lomov and Natalia.

Question 6. Do you think the title of the drama is suitable? Give reasons in support of your views. Suggest a different title for the drama.

Answer: Yes, the title A Marriage Proposal is suitable for the drama, as it directly reflects the central plot of the play. The entire action revolves around Lomov’s attempt to propose to Natalia, although the proposal is repeatedly interrupted by absurd arguments and misunderstandings. The title highlights the core conflict of the play, where the characters' actions are shaped by their desire for marriage, even though it is filled with comic absurdity.

However, an alternative title could be The Battle of Ox-Meadows, as the play humorously focuses on the ridiculous disputes over the ownership of Ox-meadows and the escalating arguments between Lomov and Natalia. This title would capture the comedic essence of the play while still reflecting the central issue of ownership that causes the characters to clash.

Question 7. Natalia and Lomov would be an ideal couple. Do you agree? Give reasons.

Answer: No, I do not think Natalia and Lomov would be an ideal couple, despite their eventual marriage. Both characters are stubborn, argumentative, and easily irritated, which leads to frequent conflict. Lomov is insecure, nervous, and prone to exaggerating his health issues, while Natalia is strong-willed, fiery, and quick to argue. Their relationship seems to be based more on circumstance than mutual understanding or affection. While they do have moments of concern for each other, such as when Natalia expresses worry over Lomov's health, their relationship is marred by their constant quarrels. They would likely have a tumultuous marriage filled with misunderstandings, as their personalities clash and they are both overly sensitive and proud. Thus, they are not an ideal match, as their differences would create continuous tension in their relationship.

C. 2. Group Discussion

Question 1: Arguments for the sake of arguments lead to nowhere.

Discussion: Arguments that are conducted without a clear purpose or goal often lead to frustration and conflict without achieving any productive outcome. In many cases, arguments are driven by ego, pride, or a need to prove oneself right rather than to resolve a genuine issue. For example, in The Proposal, the characters Lomov and Natalia argue over trivial matters such as the ownership of Ox-meadows and the quality of their dogs, which derail the actual purpose of the conversation, which is Lomov’s marriage proposal. Such arguments can escalate tensions and create animosity, ultimately not solving any real problem. Constructive discussions, on the other hand, focus on finding solutions or understanding different perspectives. Therefore, it is important to ensure that discussions are purposeful, respectful, and aimed at resolving differences rather than simply engaging in arguments for the sake of winning.

Question 2: Marriages are settled in heaven but are solemnized on the earth.

Discussion: This proverb highlights the belief that destiny plays a significant role in bringing two people together for marriage, but the actual process of marriage is carried out through human efforts and rituals. The idea suggests that while two people may be fated to marry, the practical aspects, such as finding the right partner, agreeing on terms, and going through ceremonies, are the responsibility of those involved. In The Proposal, while Lomov and Natalia's marriage is influenced by external factors like social pressure and parental wishes, the process of negotiating, arguing, and eventually getting married takes place in the real world. This statement emphasizes that while love and compatibility may be "meant to be," the formalization and recognition of marriage require human interaction and decision-making. Thus, marriage involves both divine fate and human effort.

C. 3. Composition

Question 1: Write a short essay in about 150 words on the following:

a. Role and responsibility of parents in marriage

Parents play a vital role in the marriage process, especially in traditional societies. They are responsible for guiding their children through the process, offering emotional support, and ensuring the marriage is built on strong foundations. In many cultures, parents are involved in finding a suitable partner for their children, considering factors such as family background, social status, and compatibility. They provide advice and counsel to help their children make informed decisions. Additionally, parents are responsible for overseeing the marriage ceremony, ensuring it is conducted with the appropriate cultural and religious customs. While children’s consent is crucial, parents’ wisdom, experience, and support help in making the right choices. Ultimately, parents aim to secure the happiness and well-being of their children by offering their guidance in the marriage process.

b. Social relevance of marriage

Marriage holds significant social relevance in most societies. It is not just an emotional or personal bond but a social institution that connects families and communities. Marriage plays an essential role in the stability of society by formalizing relationships, ensuring the upbringing of children, and maintaining family structures. It often represents the legal and moral foundation for inheritance, property rights, and the social responsibilities of both partners. Additionally, marriage helps in the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals by providing a supportive, committed relationship. Through marriage, individuals form strong social ties and contribute to community development. While the concept of marriage may differ across cultures, its social importance in fostering relationships, stability, and growth remains universal.

Question 2: Write a letter to your friend describing the marriage ceremony that you attended recently in your family.

[Your Name][Your Address][City, Zip Code][Date]

Dear [Friend's Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health. I wanted to tell you about the beautiful marriage ceremony I recently attended in our family. It was my cousin's wedding, and the whole event was an unforgettable experience.

The ceremony took place at our family’s home, and we had a traditional celebration. The bride, dressed in a gorgeous red saree, looked absolutely stunning. The groom, on the other hand, wore a classic sherwani. The entire family gathered for the rituals, and there was a vibrant atmosphere with music, dance, and laughter. The rituals started early in the morning with the exchange of garlands, followed by the sacred fire ceremony, where they took vows. Everyone was so happy, and the event was filled with love and blessings.

The reception in the evening was grand, with delicious food and lively music. It was wonderful to see our family come together and celebrate such a joyous occasion.

I thought of sharing this memorable event with you, and I hope we can meet soon.

Warm regards,[Your Name]

Rainbow Part 2 English Book Class 12 Bihar Board

Bihar Board Class 12 English Book

Class 12 English Rainbow Part 2 in Hindi

Bihar Board English Book Solutions

Class 12 Rainbow Part 2 Book PDF in Hindi

Bihar Board English Textbook

Rainbow Part 2 Bihar Board Solutions

Class 12 English Notes Bihar Board

Bihar Board English Book Download

Bihar Board English Book in Hindi Translation

Class 12 Bihar Board Rainbow Book PDF

Bihar Board English Chapter Summaries

Rainbow Part 2 Class 12 Bihar Board Important Questions

Bihar Board English Textbook Questions and Answers

Bihar Board English Study Material Rainbow Book

Bihar Board Class 12 Rainbow Part 2 in Hindi

Bihar Board English Book Download

Class 12 English Rainbow Part 2 PDF in Hindi

Rainbow Part 2 Solutions Bihar Board

Bihar Board English Book Chapter Wise Solutions

Rainbow Part 2 Class 12 Notes

Class 12 English Bihar Board Rainbow Part 2 Chapter Explanation

Bihar Board English Rainbow Part 2 Important Questions

Bihar Board Rainbow Part 2 Study Guide

Bihar Board Class 12 English Book Solutions Chapter 11 | A Marriage Proposal | Go my class