CBSE Class 11 English Woven Poem Chapter - 12 Important Questions - Ajamil and the Tigers Free PDF Download
FAQs on Important Questions for CBSE Class 11 English Woven Poem Chapter 12 - Ajamil and the Tigers
1. What are the most important 3-mark questions from the poem "Ajamil and the Tigers" for CBSE Class 11 English (2025-26)?
- Explain how Ajamil and the tigers symbolize different sections of society in the poem.
- Discuss the significance of the treaty signed by Ajamil with the tigers and its impact on his flock.
- How does the poem "Ajamil and the Tigers" use allegory to highlight political corruption?
2. In "Ajamil and the Tigers," why is Ajamil considered a shrewd leader rather than a fool? (5 Marks)
- Ajamil balances the need to protect the majority of his sheep by sacrificing a few, demonstrating calculated risk-taking.
- He signs a pact with the tigers to prevent larger harm, showing political acumen.
- He refrains from direct conflict, instead using diplomacy, which is a hallmark of clever leadership as per CBSE analysis questions.
3. How does the poem "Ajamil and the Tigers" reflect the theme of survival of the fittest? (HOTS)
The poem depicts every character's struggle for survival, where alliances and sacrifices are made to adapt and persist in a hostile environment. Ajamil's choices illustrate how, in a system dominated by power, only those willing to negotiate and compromise endure. This aligns with CBSE's focus on thematic and analytical questions for 2025–26.
4. What does the sheep symbolize in "Ajamil and the Tigers"? (Important Questions)
The sheep represent the common masses who are often powerless and exploited by leaders and those in authority. Their vulnerability underscores political allegory within the poem, a key focus in recent board exams.
5. List two frequently asked 2-mark questions from "Ajamil and the Tigers" for Class 11 board exams.
- What is the literal and metaphorical meaning of the pond in the poem?
- Describe the role of the sheepdog as portrayed in "Ajamil and the Tigers."
6. Why did Ajamil sacrifice some sheep, and what does this reveal about leadership? (Expected Question)
Ajamil sacrificed a few sheep to keep peace with the tigers and protect his larger flock, demonstrating a utilitarian approach common in political leadership. As per CBSE trends, this question tests understanding of decision-making and ethical dilemmas.
7. What is the central theme of the poem "Ajamil and the Tigers"? (Frequently Asked)
The central theme is the exploitation of the weak by the powerful, and the complexities of moral compromise in leadership. The poem uses allegory to mirror real-world societal and political conflicts, a favored concept in CBSE English assessment for 2025–26.
8. Discuss the significance of the treaty between Ajamil and the tigers. (Board trend)
The treaty signifies calculated compromise to maintain harmony, showing the poet's critique of political agreements that protect the elite at the cost of the vulnerable. This resonates with CBSE's exam focus on interpreting symbolic actions in literature.
9. How is Ajamil's leadership style contrasted against that of the sheepdog?
Ajamil uses avoidance and negotiation, prioritizing long-term survival, while the sheepdog represents direct confrontation and protective aggression. Their contrast serves to question the effectiveness and morality of different approaches to leadership.
10. What are some common conceptual traps students face when answering "Ajamil and the Tigers" Class 11 Important Questions?
- Simply retelling the story rather than analyzing allegorical meaning.
- Ignoring character symbolism (e.g., seeing the sheep as mere animals, not as representations of people).
- Missing the political satire or assuming Ajamil is foolish without considering his motives.
11. In what ways does "Ajamil and the Tigers" serve as a political satire? (HOTS, 5 Marks)
The poem uses the interactions between Ajamil, the sheep, and the tigers to satirize political power games, showing how leaders may betray their people for stability or personal gain. This sharp commentary on governance aligns with recent analytical questions in CBSE exams.
12. How does the poem portray the role of fear in driving political decisions? (Application, Exam Blind Spot)
Fear of loss and conflict compels Ajamil to ally with the tigers and sacrifice some sheep. The poem shows how fear can override principles and force leaders into morally ambiguous agreements—a recurring theme in Class 11 board marking schemes.
13. Which lines from the poem best illustrate the dilemma faced by Ajamil, and why is this significant for understanding the poem?
Lines describing Ajamil’s hesitation before signing the treaty and his refusal to meet the sheepdog’s gaze highlight his internal conflict between duty and expedience. Recognizing this dilemma is crucial for higher-order exam answers in 2025–26.
14. How should students structure their responses to 5-mark CBSE "Ajamil and the Tigers" questions for maximum marks?
- Start with a clear thesis statement reflecting the question’s demand.
- Include at least one quotation or direct reference from the poem.
- Explain symbolism or allegory in the answer.
- Conclude with a personal insight or societal relevance.
15. What lesson does "Ajamil and the Tigers" convey to the common man, and how is this relevant in current times?
The poem warns the common man about the risks of blind trust in leadership and highlights the tendency of those in power to prioritize their interests at the expense of the masses. This relevance continues for CBSE board exam analysis in 2025–26.
