PRISONER OF ZENDA
SHORT-ANSWER QUESTIONS (with Past Papers)
Q: 01. The Prisoner of Zenda is a
novel of adventure. Discuss (2006)
Ans: Sir Anthony Hope Hawkins has created a combination of
adventure, melodrama and romance in “The Prisoner of Zenda”.
Plot: The plot is based upon the political challenges in an
imaginary state of Ruritania, situated in Central Europe, for the throne and
the Princess, which are caused by the death of King Rudolf IV.
Theme: The only and legal heir to the throne is Princess Flavia. Rudolf
Elphberg, the real son of king, is her fiancé. However, Black Michael, a son
from second and morganatic marriage of the late king, also wishes to get the
throne as he is far more popular than his brother Rudolf who had spent a big
time of his life abroad.
Story: Black Michael made a devilish and dangerous plan to drug
Rudolf Elphberg and seize the throne for himself but Colonel Sapt, with the
help of a stranger and distant cousin of Elphbergs, Rudolf Rassendyll, an
Englishman, snatches away this chance from him. Black Michael’s men kidnap and
imprison King in the castle of Zenda. Both parties, though knowing the
realities of each other neither, do not dare to speak of the truth to defend
their schemes i.e. Black Michael’s scheme to kill insensible king and take over
the throne and King’s party to free the real King and place him at his rightful
place.
Q:
02. Anthony Hope has drawn a free vivid picture of late 17th Century
European people with Palace intrigues and unaware subjects in his novel “The
Prisoner of Zenda”. Discuss.
Ans: It
is true that Anthony Hope has drawn a free vivid picture of late 17th
Century European people with vivid picture of Palace intrigues and unaware
subjects in his novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. Rudolf Rassendyll, a young
aristocratic family member goes on a tour to Ruritania, an imaginary state and
meets the future King in the forest of Zenda. The king invites him to supper,
drinks too much and gets unconscious thus, both of the loyal servants of King,
impersonate him due to his resemblance with the king. This gives a birth to all
the incidents, palace intrigues, adventures and romantic touch to the novel.
Q: 03. How do we learn Rassendyll’s
connection with the Elphbergs?
Ans: The Novel begins with the description of a very rich family
“The Rassendylls” in England. They are artisans, the elder son of the family “Robert
Rassendyll” is Lord of Burlesdon and younger son “Rudolf Rassendyll” is highly
educated, perfect speaker of different languages, good shot and a competent
swordsman, likes to travel and adventure. More than two centuries ago, there
had been a scandal in the family as during his stay in England, a young prince
from the Elphbergs, had developed illicit relationship with the Countess Amelia
who belonged to “The Rassendylls”. It
was due to the legacy of sin of that young prince that “The Rassendylls” always
had sharp noses, blue eyes and red hairs like the Elphbergs since then.
Q: 04. “You are
nine and twenty and you have done nothing.” To whom does Lady Rose state and
what does she mean by the above remark? (2013-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Lady Rose is addressing Rudolf Rassendyll in this statement. She is
trying to express the necessity of taking up some permanent employment as he
has turned twenty nine and yet he is only interested in adventure, wandering
and hunting only.
Q: 05. State three qualities of Rudolf Rassendyll. (2017-Com) OR
Q: Highlight some sterling qualities of Rudolf Rassendyll
as a Victorian hero. (2015-Com) OR
Q: Rassendyll is the real King. Comment. (2014-Sc)
Ans: The quote “Before God, You are the finest Elphberg of them all”, affirms
that Rudolf Rassendyll is the real King. He appears to be a typical hero of romance
and adventure besides being brave, gallant and man of upright character. He is
such a person who possesses multifarious qualities of heroism that put in him a
spirit to experience adventures. Sapt makes a quite worth admiring decision by
choosing him to save the throne of Ruritania because Rassendyll fits his
decisions and never lets him down. He not only helps Sapt fully in the
restoration but also remains anxious for the liberation of the real King. On
the other hand he plays the role of King till his level best and sacrifices his
own desires and wishes to stand the dignity of his words. Since the acceptance
to impersonate the king to save throne till the end when he faces the painful
departure from his love “Princess Flavia” knowing that she will marry Rudolf
Elphberg for the sake of her country and people, Rudolf showed that every inch
of him was made of noble blood and he was brought up like a King.
Q: 06. Who deserves to be the king
of Ruritania more and why?
Q: Who deserves
to be the rightful King of Ruritania Elphberg or Rassendyll? State with reasons
(2013-Com-Reg) OR
Q:
What were the main differences between both Rudolf Rassendyll and Rudolf
Elphberg?
OR
Q: Compare two Rudolf’s briefly. OR
Q: Give a comparison between Elphberg and Rassendyll. (2014-Sc)
Ans: Both
the cousins resemble physically but yet have differences like different mental
approach, habits and traits.
1. Rudolf Rassendyll is an English
Aristocrat whereas Elphberg is a European Crown Prince.
2.
Rudolf
Rassendyll is shrewd, straight forward and proves discreet whereas Rudolf
Elphberg is indiscreet.
3.
Rudolf
Rassendyll is silent and reserved natured whereas Rudolf Elphberg is careless
and pleasure seeking person.
4.
Rudolf
Rassendyll is a brave, courageous, challenging and full of spirit of adventure
whereas Rudolf Elphberg is weak, unchallenging and a shallow person.
5.
Rudolf
Rassendyll posses the quality of adaptability whereas Rudolf Elphberg lacks it.
6. Rudolf Rassendyll posses genius, active
mind and free heart whereas Rudolf Elphberg has no genius but only a good
friend.
OR (PARAGRAPH FORMAT)
Ans: Legally Rudolf Rassendyll doesn’t deserve to be the king as
he is an Englishman, a foreigner in Ruritania and doesn’t classify to be a
King. However he possesses inborn qualities of leadership which weigh heavily
in his favour. He is enterprising, accepts the responsibility to step into the
king’s shoes and becomes the imposter of King and plays that role admirably.
Rudolf
Elphberg being the heir to the throne of Ruritania has the right to be King
though he lacks the qualities of a King. He is easy going, careless and lacks
in leadership qualities as he loves wine, women and music. He takes kingship
rather lightly, while Rudolf Rassendyll is bold and courageous at the right
time. His conduct is most unbecoming for a king which makes him undeserving to
be a king.
Q: 07.
Do you consider Rudolf Elphberg the best king of Ruritania? Justify your answer
with reason. (2011- Com-Reg)
Ans: No, He wasn’t a
better choice to be a King as the Throne was totally endangered by the careless
attitude of the real king. It was sheer chance for the Black Michael to capture
the throne. Rudolf Elphberg being the heir to the throne of Ruritania has the
right to be King though he lacks the qualities of a King. He is easy going,
careless and lacks in leadership qualities as he loves wine, women and music.
He takes kingship rather lightly, while Rudolf Rassendyll is bold and
courageous at the right time. His conduct is most unbecoming for a king which
makes him undeserving to be a king. He also drinks the wine gifted by his
wicked brother though it is well known that Black Michael intends to get
through the access to the throne and wants to marry Princess Flavia but
Elphberg doesn’t care about all these facts.
Q: 08. What was the importance of
the first meeting of the hero with the King Rudolf and his most loyal
attendants? OR
Q: How and where do the two Rudolfs meet first time? (2017-Com)
Q: Narrate the first meeting that
took place between Rudolf Rassendyll and Rudolf Elphberg. (2011- Supplementary)
Ans: The first chance meeting of the hero with the king (both
Rudolfs) and his most loyal attendants were of vital and significant importance
in the novel. They met in a forest near Zenda just a day before the coronation.
This was a meeting which shocked King Rudolf because he saw a person who
resembled him very much. The king was amused to know distant relation with
Rassendyll and took him to an informal supper where they ate and drank together
with some delightful conversation. There King Rudolf drank a rare old wine
gifted by Michael which was actually drugged. Hadn’t Rudolf Rassendyll met them
all, Black Michael would surely have captured the throne in absence of the King
Elphberg.
Q:
09. Discuss the points of resemblances between both Rudolfs.
Ans: The
Writer has created artistically amazing resemblances between both the Rudolfs
as both have similar physical features such as red hair and long nose. Moreover
both have same stature and built as they are distant relatives. It was like
hide one and bring forth the other in order to convince the people that he was
the real king of Ruritania.
Q: 10. What part does the Castle of
Zenda play in the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”?
Ans: The Castle of Zenda plays a very significant and important
role in the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. In fact the title says it all
because the real adventure, thrill and action begins when the King, Rudolf
Elphberg, is imprisoned in the castle of Zenda and Rudolf Rassendyll, Colonel
Sapt and their faithful companions struggle to free the king by attempting and
attacking Castel again and again till they succeed.
Q: 11. Describe morganatic marriage with particular reference to the Prisoner
of Zenda. (2013-Com-Reg)
Ans: A marriage in
which the spouse belonging to lower rank nor any children have any claim to the
possessions or tile of the spouse of higher rank in European royalty, is termed
as morganatic marriage. Black
Michael is the elder / half brother of King Rudolf Elphberg. He is the late
king’s son from a morganatic marriage. Since he is not from the royal family,
he could not become King of Ruritania.
Q: 12. How does King’s weakness put
him in danger? OR
Q: Describe the careless attitude of
the King Elphberg?
Q: How much was the throne
endangered by the careless attitude of the real king- Rudolf Elphberg?
Ans: Rudolf Elphberg was
addicted to drink so his brother
Black Michael sent him a drugged wine bottle which he drank and got
unconscious. The Throne was totally endangered by the careless attitude of the
real king. His brother “Black
Michael” had a plan to exploit his drinking habit, kidnap and kill the king to
take over the throne and get married to Princess Flavia and King’s weakness to
drink had made it possible for Black Michael to take advantage and carry on
with his plan. It was sheer chance for the Black Michael to capture the throne.
One of the most significant signs of Elphberg’s careless attitude is that he
doesn’t hesitate in getting drunk just a day before his coronation. He does not
care even for the coronation and drinks excessively. He also drinks the wine
gifted by his wicked brother though it is well known that Black Michael intends
to get through the access to the throne and wants to marry Princess Flavia but
Elphberg doesn’t care about all these facts. Shortly, it is all because of his
carelessness that Black Michael gets a chance to hatch a devilish plan by
kidnapping him.
Q: 13. Why is Black Michael not
regarded as a suitable person to be the king of Ruritania?
Ans: To be King, one should be morally upright and noble in
character which Black Michael lacks. Black Michael is the elder brother of King
Rudolf Elphberg. He is the late king’s son, a result of morganatic marriage.
Since he is not from the royal family, he could not become King of Ruritania.
Apart this reason, he isn’t regarded as a suitable person to become King
because he is a villain, mean, coward, crafty and has devilish nature. Hence,
such a person is most unsuitable to be King. Colonel Sapt feels that if Black
Michael will become King, he will murder King Rudolf Elphberg. His friendship
and contacts with criminals and ruffians also makes him unsuitable for the
kingship.
Q: 14. What plan did Duke Michael make to prevent
King Rudolf Elphberg from attending the coronation?
Ans: Black Michael is determined to ascend to the throne of
Ruritania by fair or foul means, for which he is ineligible. So he hatches a
plan to prevent King Rudolf Elphberg from attending his coronation ceremony. He
knows that his brother is a careless and a happy go lucky sort of fellow, who
loves alcohol and attending hunting expedites etc. so, he invites him to his
state “Zenda” for a dinner at the shooting lodge. After the dinner Black
Michael knowing his brother’s weakness, sends him a drugged rare wine bottle.
King consumes this drugged wine and becomes unconscious. This was Black
Michael’s plan to make him unconscious for a long time that he may not be able
to attend his own coronation but his plans were made soar as Col. Sapt
persuaded Rudolf Rassendyll, the king’s look alike, to become king.
Q: 15. Why did Black Michael kidnap
the king?
Ans: Black Michael wanted
to be in King’s shoes. He wanted to get rid of the king by killing him and was
the Duke of Strelsau and half brother of King Elphberg. He kidnapped the king
so that he could disgrace him in front of his subjects and people of Ruritania
by disclosing that he was a drunkard. He wanted to destroy the reputation of
Rudolf Elphberg by proving that he was ineligible to become king and thus he
could easily get to the throne by proving himself more capable of being a king.
Q:
16. Duke Michael in spite of all-out efforts could not become the king of
Ruritania. Why? OR
Q:
Why could Duke Michael not succeed in his conspiracy to become the King of
Ruritania?
Ans: Duke
Michael couldn’t succeed in his evil intentions and the conspiracy to become
the king of Ruritania in spite of all out efforts because luck favoured King
Elphberg and sent Rudolf Rassendyll to impersonate him. He resembled the real
king and as the loyal servants of King were aware of Black Michael’s evil
nature and intrigues, they compelled and convinced Rassendyll to impersonate
the King. It was bad luck on Michael’s part and the coronation along with all
rituals rook place smoothly.
Q: 17. Why did Black Michael not
kill the King?
Ans: Rassendyll’s
impersonation plays a major part in saving the life of real king. If Black
Michael killed Rudolf Elphberg then it was impossible for him to prove Rudolf
Rassendyll as an imposter. Therefore, to keep his own guilt and crime secret,
he is forced to keep the king alive and not to kill him. It is also due to this
reason that he puts his all efforts in killing Rudolf Rassendyll first and then
to get rid of the real King.
Q:
18. Why was Rudolf Rassendyll reluctant to impersonate the King Elphberg?
Ans: When
Colonel Sapt and Fritz offered Rudolf Rassendyll to impersonate the King he
becomes reluctant and confused. He is not ready to take the risk in a foreign
country whose people, culture and routine are stranger to him. He suggested
calling a doctor who can bring the king to consciousness. At first he resists
but the devotion and sincerity of Colonel Sapt compelled him to accept the
challenge and impersonate the king at last.
Q: 19.
How does Colonel Sapt convince Rudolf Rassendyll to play the role of the king
for the coronation ceremony? (2012-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Colonel Sapt persuades Rassendyll
to impersonate the king because he knows quite well that Black Michael will
seize the throne. On the morning of Coronation, when King’s loyal attendants,
Colonel Sapt and Fritz, found him insensible and utterly unable to attend his
own coronation, Sapt made a plan for Rassendyll’s impersonation in the
coronation ceremony. Colonel Sapt decided to frustrate Michael’s plot by
keeping Rassendyll on the throne until the real King was rescued. Colonel Sapt says
“Fate sent you to here. Fate sends you now to Strelsau”. He breaks upon
Rassendyll that if the King did not keep his appointment today, he will either
sleep in jail or in his grave. He added that half of the Strelsau is already in
favour of Michael and if the King failed to attend his coronation then it will
be a piece of cake for Michael to capture the throne. Rudolf pictures himself
as the King and enjoys the feeling to finally agree to impersonate the king.
Q: 20. How and why Rudolf Rassendyll
was made the King of Ruritania?
Q: What were the circumstances that led Rassendyll to impersonate the
king? (2016-Com)
Q: Why was Rassendyll forced to impersonate the King
of Ruritania? (2015-Sc) OR
Q:
What events led Rudolf Rassendyll to act as the King of Ruritania? (2014-Com-Reg), (2012- Com-Pvt) OR
Q:
Why does Rudolf Rassendyll disguise himself as Rudolf Elphberg? (2010-Sc)
Ans: Rudolf Rassendyll resembled the king of Ruritania
because of a common ancestry. During his visit to Ruritania to attend the
coronation ceremony of Rudolf Elphberg, by chance, he met the king in the
forest of Zenda. King invited his cousin on an informal supper and drank wine
sent by Michael as a gift. As the wine was drugged, the King became insensible
and Colonel Sapt persuaded Rudolf Rassendyll to impersonate the king at the
coronation and save the throne from Michael’s devilish intentions.
Q:
21. What role does Colonel Sapt play in the novel?
Ans: Colonel Sapt plays a very significant role in the novel. He
is one of the most devoted followers and personal attendant of the real king.
He is the major character who prevents the throne from the devilish plans of
Black Michael. He is the most experienced, senior and intelligent character of
the novel that persuades Rassendyll to impersonate the king because he knows
quite well that Black Michael will seize the throne. He is the strongest man
and a trusting advisor for the king and for the politics of Ruritania. Colonel
Sapt meets with Rassendyll in the forest near Castle of Zenda for the first
time. He is a brave man whose gallantry keeps him motivated for taking personal
risks. He shows great valour on all events and occasions. Sapt is very loyal to
the king and serves the throne with dedication and faith.
Q: 22.
Describe
the efforts taken by Col Sapt to save Ruritanian Throne. (2015-Com) OR
Q:
Give a brief description of the loyalty and wisdom of Colonel Sapt. (2011-Com-Pvt)
OR
Q: Colonel Sapt is the real protector of the House of
Elphberg. Justify the statement. (2014, 2013-Sc)
Ans: Colonel Sapt plays a very significant role in the novel. He
is one of the most devoted followers and personal attendant of the real king.
He is the major character who prevents the throne from the devilish plans of
Black Michael. He is the most experienced, senior and intelligent character of
the novel that persuades Rassendyll to impersonate the king because he knows
quite well that Black Michael will seize the throne. He is the strongest man
and a trusting advisor for the king and for the politics of Ruritania. Colonel
Sapt meets with Rassendyll in the forest near Castle of Zenda for the first
time. On the morning of Coronation, when King’s loyal attendants, Colonel Sapt
and Fritz, found him insensible and utterly unable to attend his own
coronation, Sapt made a plan for Rassendyll’s impersonation in the coronation
ceremony. Colonel Sapt decided to frustrate Michael’s plot by keeping
Rassendyll on the throne until the real King was rescued. He shows great valour
on all events and occasions. Sapt is very loyal to the king and serves the
throne with dedication and faith. He is a brave man whose gallantry keeps him
motivated for taking personal risk as the real
protector of the House of Elphberg.
He is a brave man whose gallantry keeps
him motivated for taking personal risks. He shows great valour on all events
and occasions. He supports Rassendyll as a mentor and guides him at every event
and occasion. He not only serves the throne but also keeps Princess Flavia safe
from the reach of Black Michael and reveals the real story at the end of the
novel to justify his actions to King and Princess. Sapt is very loyal to the
king and serves the throne with dedication and faith.
Q: 23. How did wise Sapt face the
critical situation to save the throne when King Rudolf Elphberg had fainted by
drinking the drugged wine? OR
Ans: Col. Sapt was a very intelligent and experienced army
officer and the personal body guard of King Rudolf who had the duty to protect
King and his throne. He proved his loyalty and sharpness of mind in that
critical situation when king got fainted by drinking the drugged wine sent by
Black Michael. He showed remarkable wisdom and presence of mind and quickly
decided to take advantage of Rassendyll’s resemblance with the King. He
convicted him to impersonate the king at the coronation. Rassendyll with help
and guidance of Colonel Sapt, displayed great heroism and courage at the
coronation and consequently, the villain and traitor, Duke Michael failed to
capture the throne of Ruritania.
Q: 24. How Colonel Sapt frustrated
Michael’s plan to seize the throne for himself?
Ans: On the morning of Coronation, when King’s loyal attendants,
Colonel Sapt and Fritz, found him insensible and utterly unable to attend his
own coronation, Sapt made a plan for Rassendyll’s impersonation in the
coronation ceremony. They left the king in shooting lodge and went for the
coronation but later that night when Colonel Sapt and Rudolf Rassendyll arrived
back at the shooting lodge to fetch back the King, they found him missing. King
was kidnapped by “The Six” Michael’s followers. Colonel Sapt decided to
frustrate Michael’s plot by keeping Rassendyll on the throne until the real
King was rescued.
Q: 25. How did Sapt and Fritz serve
Rudolf Rassendyll?
Ans: Sapt and Fritz served
Rassendyll not only as a person who assisted them in their mission but they
also regarded him very important and valued his advices. They never misbehaved
with Rassendyll and never let down his proposals. When a letter arrived for
Rassendyll asking him to come at midnight to summerhouse alone, at first Sapt
suspected a trap, tried to turn down the instruction but when Rassendyll
insisted, he agreed to accompany him. When Fritz and Sapt escorted Rassendyll’s
departure from Ruritania, Fritz still bowed in front of him as he used t do and
kissed his hand in esteem previously. This all shows that their behaviour with
Rassendyll had been like a friend and like a man who was a superior to them.
Q: 26. What was the first gallant
and brave step of Rassendyll when he was made an imposter of the king? OR
How did Rassendyll get the first
moral victory over Michael in the dangerous game? OR
When did Rassendyll strike first
blow to Michael in the dangerous game played on the surface of Ruritanian
politics?
Ans: When Rassendyll was made an imposter of the king and reached
Old Town, which was in the favour of Black Michael, on his way to cathedral on
the coronation day, he went through without any particular escort or security.
In fact he took a very wise and bold step for king’s popularity and to build
the trust by showing his bravery that the King of Ruritania trusts his
people. The people of that area got
surprised and highly impressed by the courage and heroism of Rassendyll who
felt no hesitation at all in riding through the danger zone without any sign of
fear or panic. This bold step won him first moral victory over Michael as well.
Q: 27. Give an
account of the Coronation Ceremony with reference to Rudolf Rassendyll’s
behaviour. (2015-Sc)
Ans: Rudolf Rassendyll went through Coronation quite
successfully. Having passed through the streets of the old and new city
surrounded by gaily dressed men and women, Rudolf and his procession reached
Cathedral. He managed everything quite well and did more than he was expected
by Sapt and Fritz. He faced Black Michael very bravely and enjoyed his
frustration of seeing King keeping his commitment. He also embarrassed Princess
Flavia, whom he had fallen in love on her very first sight, and dealt with
Cardinal and formal processions quite well. In Short, Rassendyll’s behaviour
was remarkable and praiseworthy in the Coronation Ceremony and he never gave a
hint to anyone including Princess Flavia that he is an imposter to the real
king.
Q: 28. How does
Rudolf Rassendyll behave as the king when he takes part in the procession
before the coronation? (2013-Com-Pvt)
Ans: After
drinking the Drugged Wine, King Elphberg got unconscious, his loyal servants
begged Rassendyll to save the throne and impersonate the King. When Rudolf Rassendyll agrees to
impersonate the King in coronation on the demand of Colonel Sapt, he took the
job as a religious duty. After reaching Strelsaun and being welcomed by the
dignitaries including Marshal Strakencz, Commander-In-Chief of Ruritanian Army;
Chancellor of the kingdom Ruritania, a group of officers of the royal court
(Colonel Sapt keeps whispering their names in his ear) the procession reaches
Old Town, which was in the favour of Black Michael, on his way to Cathedral on
the coronation day. He takes a very wise and bold step for king’s popularity
and to build trust by showing his bravery that the King of Ruritania trusts his
people. Rassendyll felt no hesitation at
all in riding through the danger zone without any sign of fear or panic rather
responded to the cheers and calls of the people. He meets Princes Flavia and
Black Michael on reaching at cathedral. Black Michael
shows outward love in the presence of others yet confused and surprised on the
unexpected situation.
Behaviour of Rassendyll as a king does not make any of them suspicious that the
real king is not in the Coronation.
Q:
29. Briefly describe the processions of Coronation ceremony of Rassendyll as
the King of Ruritania.
Q: Describe the Coronation Ceremony. (2016-Sc) OR
Q: Describe any important incident of the novel
Prisoner of Zenda. (2014-Sc)
OR
Q: Highlight the main features and events of
Coronation Ceremony. (2013-Com-Reg)
Ans: The Coronation ceremony of King
Rudolf Elphberg as the 5th King of Ruritania has been mentioned in
the novel. Rudolf Rassendyll, accompanying Sapt and Fritz, arrives at the station
on Coronation day morning (Wednesday). A large
procession, consisting upon dignitaries, brings the new king to the “Cathedral”,
place of Coronation. In the procession a lot of people gaily dressed lead the
king and others shower the flowers over him. The procession arrives at the
Church, decorated with statues and pictures where Rudolf meets with gorgeous Princess
Flavia and falls in love with her. He also meets well dressed priests and Black
Michael and many others who awaited there. When Michael comes to meet him, he shows
outward love in the presence of others yet confused and surprised on the
unexpected situation. He is turned pale. The Cardinal rises to welcome him,
Rassendyll knells before the altar and the Cardinal anointed his head. Cardinal
sets the crown on his head; Rassendyll swears the oath and receives the Holy
Sacrament. It is announced that Rudolf the fifth has been crowned as the King.
Princess Flavia was the first to come forward, courtesies low, takes his hand
and kisses it. He draws her near and kisses her cheeks. Cardinal follows
Princess Flavia and presents letter from Pope to the King followed by Black
Michael who pays his respect to the King, though is pale, and then the
ambassadors pay their respect. Ceremony lasts for an hour and then the
procession moves to the palace from the same streets through which they had
come to the Cathedral.
Q: 30. What was the attitude of
Michael to Rassendyll during the coronation?
Ans: When Rassendyll unexpectedly reached at cathedral on the
coronation ceremony, Black Michael, the villain, got stunned to see him there.
His full-blooded red cheeks went pale all in a moment and his helmet fell with
a clatter on the floor. When the king was crowned and he went to meet him,
Duke’s lips became dry and parched, his face became patched with red and white,
his steps trembled and he looked to the right and left, as a man who was thinking
of flight while his hands shook the hand of King.
Q: 31.
Compare and contrast the characters Rudolf Elphberg and Black Michael. (2010-Com)
Ans: Rudolf
Elphberg being the heir to the throne of Ruritania has the right to be King
though he lacks the qualities of a King. He is easy going, careless and lacks
in leadership qualities as he loves wine, women and music. He takes kingship
rather lightly, while Rudolf Rassendyll is bold and courageous at the right
time. His conduct is most unbecoming for a king who makes him undeserving to be
a king whereas Black Michael, also
known as Duke of Strelsau is the half brother of the King Rudolf Elphberg but
he isn’t a legal heir to the throne. He appears to be a traditional villain of
the novel who is the owner of the Castle of Zenda and the surrounding states,
still his thrust for power and throne doesn’t quench. he drugged the king in
order to seize the throne in his absence but unfortunately Colonel Sapt
snatches away this chance from him by presenting an imposter of the king. There
is no love in Black Michael’s heart for anyone and this is the reason why even
his most trusted followers have no regard or respect for him. In the end he is
betrayed by his own followers like Johann and Rupert of Hentzau.
Q: 32. What is the character of
Black Michael in the novel? OR
Q: Black Michael is a detestable character. Discuss. (2017-Sc, 2013-Sc) OR
Q: What were the characteristics that
made black Michael an outright villain? (2015-Com)
Ans: Black Michael, also known as Duke of Strelsau, is the half
brother of the King Rudolf Elphberg but he isn’t a legal heir to the throne. He
appears to be a traditional villain of the novel who is the owner of the Castle
of Zenda and the surrounding states, still his thrust for power and throne
doesn’t quench. He drugged the king in order to seize the throne in his absence
but unfortunately Colonel Sapt snatches away this chance from him by presenting
an imposter of the king. There is no love in Black Michael’s heart for anyone
and this is the reason why even his most trusted followers have no regard or
respect for him. In the end he is betrayed by his own followers like Johann and
Rupert of Hentzau.
In
short Black Michael is all evil, selfish and unreliable character and being the
villain of the novel he betrays everyone. Consequently, he has no true friend.
He never cares for blood relations not even for his love. Therefore, nature
repays him in the same coin and he is killed by one of his own men “Rupert of
Hentzau”.
Q: 33.
“Black Michael was a clever conspirator but a coward.” Discuss. (2015, 2011-Com) OR
Q: Who is the villain in the novel
“Prisoner of Zenda” and why? (2014-Com-Pvt) OR
Ans: Black
Michael, also known as Duke of Strelsau, is the half brother of the King Rudolf
Elphberg but he isn’t a legal heir to the throne. He appears to be a
traditional villain of the novel who is the owner of the Castle of Zenda and
the surrounding states, still his thrust for power and throne doesn’t quench.
he drugged the king in order to seize the throne in his absence but
unfortunately Colonel Sapt snatches away this chance from him by presenting an
imposter of the king. There is no love in Black Michael’s heart for anyone and
this is the reason why even his most trusted followers have no regard or
respect for him. In the end he is betrayed by his own followers like Johann and
Rupert of Hentzau. Black Michael is all evil, selfish and unreliable character
and being the villain of the novel he betrays everyone. he is a villain, mean,
coward, crafty and has devilish nature. Hence, such a person is most unsuitable
to be King. Although Black Michael knew who the imposter is, yet he couldn’t
expose him for his cowardly nature.
Throughout the novel, though, both the sides showed much enmity for each
other, still Black Michael and his followers can’t expose the imposter king. If
they did so, they would have to reveal their own grave crime and this may cause
the failure of their treacherous schemes.
Q:
34. Write down the chief negative qualities of Black Michael.
Ans:
Black Michael is an intriguer and schemer. He makes every possible effort to
remove the real king, marry Princess Flavia and become king himself as he has
no love for any one in his heart.
No one cares for him either due to his
evil nature. He even uses his beloved Madam De Mauban for his own purposes by
promising to marry her. Though love can turn even a cheater but it has no
authority on him. In short he is a villain with all evil in him and no good
quality.
Q: 35. Who is more devilish Black
Michael or Rupert of Hentzau?
Ans:
“A villain is an engineer of his own
catastrophe”, both of the characters, Black Michael as well as Rupert of
Hentzau are hateful, scoundrels and detestable by character and nature. Black
Michael is more devilish because of his mean, heartless, evil and vindictive
nature. He is fully aware of the love and relationship of Rudolf Elphberg with
Princess Flavia, yet he desires to marry her. He due to his evil nature hatched
a plan to murder King Rudolf and for that purpose he had kidnapped and
imprisoned him in the castle of Zenda.
Rupert
of Hentzau has the touch of the devil. He is bold and courageous but is all
about money and fame that is why he assists Michael in his plans. He is fond of
Madam De Mauban and desires to marry her. Rupert is a reckless character who is
sincere to none but Black Michael is more devilish, mean, coward, crafty and
clever. He uses Rupert for his purposes and doesn’t care for his intentions
towards Madam De Mauban which leads in an argument and Rupert of Hentzau kills
Black Michael.
Q: 36.
What role did
Madam De Mauban play in the novel ‘The Prisoner of Zenda’? (2014-Com-Reg) OR
Q: Madam
de Mauban played a magnificent role in the novel ‘The Prisoner of Zenda’. Comment.
(2011-Com-Reg)
Ans: Antoinette De Mauban is one of the major and significant
characters of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. She is a widow of 30 years
with very charming and attractive personality who deeply loves Black Michael.
She appears to be rich, handsome, according to repute and ambitious French
lady. She is fashionable and is much talked in the fashionable society of Paris
but is reserved and doesn’t let anybody come to interaction easily with her.
The
hero of novel, Rudolf Rassendyll, meets her on the railway platform of Paris
from where they travel in the same train till Ruritanian Border. Despite being
a part of Michael’s plans, she remains a noble lady who wishes nothing but the
love of her lover. She proves a very helpful character in the restoration and
rescue of the king. She is the one who gives valuable information about the
king for the first time, leaks out the real intentions of Black Michael and
warns Rudolf Rassendyll to not to trust him ever and later on warns Flavia
through a letter signed as ‘A’ in the last attempt of rescuing the king, she
acts as a part of Rassendyll’s party.
Q:
37. Why
does Madam de Mauban not cooperate with Black Michael against Rudolf Rassendyll?
(2011-Com-Pvt) OR
Q: “Say
I am Christian or say I am jealous. My God! Shall I see him marry her?” Discuss
the above sentence with reference to novel ‘The Prisoner of Zenda’. (2011-Com-Reg)
Ans: The statement is a part of the event of Summer House. Madam De Mauban
has uttered these words when she met Rassendyll in Summer House and disclosed
the secret of Castle of Zenda as well as Michael’s plan to kill Rudolf
Rassendyll. She wrote a letter on Black Michael’s command to invited Rudolf
Rassendyll to summer house and coming to know about Michael’s plan she utters
these words. The statement means that being a Christian the conscience doesn’t
allow her to do wrong or to side with those who are wrong. Moreover, as she
loved Black Michael and intended to marry him she had a jealousy with Princess
Flavia as Michael had intentions to marry her. This had hurt Madam De Mauban
and as a result of the jealousy, she turned against Michael and disclosed his
whole plan to Rudolf Rassendyll.
Q: 38. Why did
Madam De Mauban not want Black Michael to ascend to the throne?(2017-Sc) OR
Q: Why did Madam De Mauban help Rassendyll? (2016-Sc) OR
Q:
Why does Madame de Mauban help Rudolf Rassendyll? (2012-Com-Pvt)
Q:
Why and how did Antoinette De Mauban help Rudolf Rassendyll? (2014-Com-Reg)
Ans: Antoinette De Mauban loved Black Michael but Michael was
only using her for her purposes i.e. trapping the imposter of the king, getting
access to the throne and getting married with Princess Flavia. When she learned
about his devilish thinking of deserting her and marrying Princess Flavia, in
order to save him from marrying her, she betrays Black Michael and helps
Rassendyll against him. She gave away very important information about King’s
exact place in the castle of Zenda and helped Rudolf Rassendyll to rescue the
real king.
Q: 39.
Why did Madam De Mauban turn against Black Michael? (2017-Supp,2015-Com) OR
Q: Did Madam De
Mauban betray Michael rightly? Comment with reasons. (2014-Sc) OR
Q:
Why and how did Madam Mauban betray Black Michael? (2012-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Madam
De Mauban was madly in love with Black Michael and wanted to marry him but when
she comes to know that Michael isn’t sincere to her, he is using her and wants
to marry Princess Flavia, she betrays him only to keep him to herself. She is
an attractive but jealous French widow who is dreaming to marry Michael one day
and become the Queen of Ruritania. The disclosure that Michael is using her as
a tool for his purposes and wants to bring Rudolf Rassendyll under his control
makes her to betray him. She couldn’t tolerate Michael’s cheating and changes
her attitude towards him. She clearly understands that Kingship of Black
Michael will be the death of her dreams to marry him and to become queen.
She betrays Black Michael and
helps Rassendyll against him. She gave away very important information about
King’s exact place in the castle of Zenda and helped Rudolf Rassendyll to
rescue the real king.
Q: 40. Why does lady Mauban write letter to Rassendyll? (2017-Com) OR
Q: Who invited Rudolf Rassendyll to
the Summer House and How? (Supp-2011)
Ans: Madam De Mauban invited Rassendyll to her Summer House
through a letter under Black Michael’s direction and when Rassendyll reached
the summerhouse, she told him about Black Michael’s plan to kill him in anyway,
seize the throne and marry princess Flavia. She also told him that she has made
arrangements to help him flee but he got trapped in Michael’s plan as his men
approach and surround him. Rudolf Rassendyll got safe due to his sharpness,
reached to the ladder, went up the ladder in a minute and fled from
summerhouse.
Q: 41. Who wrote the letter received
by Rassendyll signed “A”? What
was the importance of the letter written by De Mauban to Rassendyll?
Ans: One Day a letter signed “A” arrived
for the king. It was an invitation to apprise the king to meet a lady at the
Summer House all alone at midnight. Rassendyll presumed that the letter was
from Madam Antoinette De Mauban with the instructions of the lady to reach the
Summer House situated at the end of the avenue. The letter had
much importance in the novel because Mauban shifted her sympathies from Michael
to the King as she didn’t want Michael to marry Princess Flavia in anyway and
on the other hand she wanted to take revenge from Michael for his ignorance and
using her for his own purposes.
Q: 42. “Madam De Mauban’s love made Rupert and Black
Michael apart”, discuss. OR
Q: Why do Rupert and Michael have a
fight?
Ans: Rupert and Black Michael are portrayed as rivals because
both are attracted by Madam De Mauban. In the final course Rupert entered lady
Mauban’s room and tried to molest her but she shrieks to Michael for help.
Michael and his loyal servants rush into the room and have a fight with him.
Rupert was armed with a sword; he fights and kills Michael and escapes.
Q: 43. Madam De Mauban is
responsible for the tragic death of Black Michael. Do you agree?
Ans: Rupert of Hentzau loved Madam De
Mauban and wanted to marry her whereas Madam De Mauban loved Black Michael.
Rupert entered in her room and tried to convince her to escape with him but she
screamed for help to Michael. Black Michael with his servants came in room and
had an argument with Rupert of Hentzau. Rupert was armed with a sword so, he
stabbed Michael with it and killed him. In this way Madam De Mauban is
responsible for the tragic death of Black Michael.
Q: 44. Compare
and contrast the characters of Princess Flavia and Madam De Mauban. (2014-Sc) OR
Q: Compare and
contrast two women characters in the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. (2013-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Princess Flavia is the heroine of the novel. She is the cousin and
fiancée of Rudolf Elphberg and also to Rudolf Rassendyll. She is not only beautiful
but also intelligent to deal all her personal and state matters wisely. She is
a sensible lady who is also straight forward and sincere in her love till her
cores. She is fully conscious to her duties to the country, though she loves
Rassendyll but yet marries Rudolf Elphberg only to bring joy and peace to her
state and people. Her beauty and sincerity has attracted Rudolf Rassendyll to
love her. Her dignity is always reflected in her behaviour throughout the
novel.
Madam De Mauban
is widow, rich and gorgeous who is visiting Ruritania on the invitation of
Black Michael. She is very ambitious and is not interested in the politics. She
has come to Ruritania to win Black Michael’s love. She is jealous by nature and
feels jealousy towards Princess Flavia when she comes to know that Black
Michael intends to marry her.
She is very sympathetic by
nature and the servants of Castle of Zenda regard her due to her sympathy
towards them. She is a noble woman who is open-hearted and generous. She is an
attractive woman and her attraction has got attention of many men including
Rupert of Hentzau who turns enemy towards his master because of Madam De
Mauban’s love.
Q: 45. Why Could Black Michael not expose the true
identity of the imposter?
Ans: The reason why Black Michael could not expose Rudolf
Rassendyll, the imposter, because he would have himself got into trouble by
doing so. Col. Sapt and Fritz would have exposed his foul-play, in order to
prevent him from attending the coronation. Although Black Michael knew who the
imposter is, yet he couldn’t expose him for his cowardly nature.
Throughout
the novel, though, both the sides showed much enmity for each other, still
Black Michael and his followers can’t expose the imposter king. If they did so,
they would have to reveal their own grave crime and this may cause the failure
of their treacherous schemes.
Q: 46. Who is the Heroine of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”? Describe
three qualities of her character. (2017-Supply)
Q: Throw light on three
dominant characteristics of Princess Flavia. (2017-Com)
Princess Flavia’s character is a reflection of virtue and goodness.
Discuss. (2016-Sc), (2011-Com-Pvt) OR
Q: Princess Flavia is an intelligent
and romantic character. Do you agree with the statement? OR
Q:
Whom do you consider the most lovable and sympathetic character in the novel
“The Prisoner of Zenda?” Give reasons. (2010-Com) OR
Q: Describe some
of the appealing qualities of Princess Flavia (2014-Sc)
OR
Q: Princess
Flavia is an ideal heroine and the symbol of love, beauty and nobility. Comment. (2010-Com)
Ans: Princess Flavia
is not at all portrayed by the author as a mere showpiece in the novel but an
extra dedicated, sincere and sensible type of young lady. She is a perfect
epitome of love, loyalty, beauty, elegance, sincerity, patriotism, honour and
sacrifice. She is loyal to her country, knows her duties well and performs them
with all her sincerity and honesty. She regards the feelings and expectations
of the people of her state important. She is the cousin of the king of
Ruritania who is an ideal princess coming out of the book of romance as we read
any literature of the world. Her love for the king is not only the matter of
legal importance but it also has the deep emotional value. The colour of
romance, infatuation and love begins to broaden its spectrum when a ball is
arranged for the imposter of the king and Princess Flavia. Rassendyll tries to
appear to be wowing her and this causes him fall in love with the epitome of
beauty and elegance, Princess Flavia.
In
the end, her heart sustained a shock when she came to know the shocking reality
that the center of her love and devotion was not he king but an English young
man in the disguise of King Rudolf. She displays remarkable courage and sense
of duty. She confesses to Rassendyll that she loved him more than her life but
was determined to uphold her family honour and the prestige of her homeland.
She made it clear to him that she would prefer to sacrifice her love for the
sake of honour and duty. This noble and daring decision glourifies the
character of Princess Flavia and earned her great respect and love of the
readers.
Q: 47. How does Princess Flavia
react when she comes to know the truth of the fake king?
Ans: She reacts most naturally when she learns about the identity
of the fake king. She is in a state of shock which is unbearable for her. Her
nerves go out of control and she falls unconscious. She couldn’t bear the
torture of this reality and faints. On the other hand, Rudolf Rassendyll also
curses the Heavens and feels great pain on the disclosure of this reality.
Q: 48. How did Princess Flavia prove
in the end of the novel that she wanted to uphold honour and prestige of her
homeland and family?
Ans: Princess Flavia is not at all portrayed by the author as a
mere showpiece in the novel but an extra dedicated, sincere and sensible type
of young lady. In the end, her heart sustained a shock when she came to know
the shocking reality that the center of her love and devotion was not he king
but an English young man in the disguise of King Rudolf. She displays
remarkable courage and sense of duty. She confesses to Rassendyll that she
loved him more than her life but was determined to uphold her family honour and
the prestige of her homeland. She made it clear to him that she would prefer to
sacrifice her love for the sake of honour and duty. This noble and daring
decision glourifies the character of Princess Flavia and earned her great
respect and love of the readers.
Q: 49. “If Love were All, I could
follow you in rags.” Discuss with reference of the novel “The Prisoner of
Zenda”.
Ans: These words were uttered by Princess Flavia in the last
meeting with Rudolf Rassendyll in the most tragic episode of the novel. She
comes to know the true identity of her lover, Rudolf Rassendyll and the war of
crown shatters her dreams. She has great love for her country and people and by
getting married to Rudolf Rassendyll; she would have disappointed her
countrymen and at the time, had gone against the wishes of the royal house of
Elphbergs. This she doesn’t want to do. So she gives up her love for Rassendyll
and says: “Honour binds a woman too Rudolf. My honour lies in being true to my
country and my house (the royal house of Elphberg.”
Q: 50. Why does Princess Flavia
sacrifice her love to Rudolf Rassendyll?
Ans: Princess Flavia displays remarkable courage and sense of
duty. She confesses to Rassendyll that she loved him more than her life but was
determined to uphold her family honour and the prestige of her homeland. She
made it clear to him that she would prefer to sacrifice her love for the sake
of honour and duty. This noble and daring decision glourifies the character of
Princess Flavia and earned her great respect and love of the readers.
Q: 51. Give an account of the Ball
given for Princess Flavia at the conclusion of which Rassendyll decided to
rescue the king. OR
Q: Describe the
importance of Ball. (2017-Sc) OR
Q: What was the plan behind arranging
the ball? By whom was it proposed? (2015-Com)
OR
Q: What is a
“Ball”? State its importance in novel. (2015-Sc)
Ans: The ball is a formal dance
party. Social dance forms a large part of the evening; actual ballroom dancing
may or may not occur. It refers to an occasion for gathering and celebrating.
It also includes gossip, intrigue, and romance that often occur at other
celebrations, such as a feast.
People
of Ruritania loved Princess Flavia and wanted the king to marry her as soon as
possible but in the circumstances it was not possible. The situation was
getting worse and the people had started to feel that the King doesn’t want to
marry Princess Flavia rather wanted to be on throne only. One day Sapt brought
the news of dissatisfaction and unease regarding king’s behaviour with Flavia
and advised Rassendyll to give a ball for the princess as the requirement of
the situation. The ball was very splendid and Rassendyll opened it by dancing
with Flavia. Rudolf played his part very cleverly and made his position even
stronger in the eyes of people. People looked at them with curiosity and
whispered. Then they went to supper and Rassendyll put a garland around
Flavia’s neck. Rassendyll then confessed his love to Flavia and Flavia replied
in the same. Before Rassendyll could reveal his true identity, Sapt arrived to
prevent him. The ball came to an end and Rassendyll decided to rescue the king
without any further delay. The purpose of the ball was successfully achieved
and people regained their faith in king.
Q: 52.
Write the selfishness and self-sacrifice of Rudolf Rassendyll. (2010-Com)
Ans: Legally
Rudolf Rassendyll is an Englishman, a foreigner in Ruritania and doesn’t
classify to be a King. However he possesses inborn qualities of leadership
which weigh heavily in his favour. He is enterprising, accepts the
responsibility to step into the king’s shoes and becomes the imposter of King
and plays that role admirably. Though he falls deeply in love with Princess
Flavia yet he stands to his duties and makes his mind to do what is right. At
the end when he has to choose between his love and love of his lover (Princess
Flavia) he chose to sacrifice his own desire and lets his lover win.
Q: 53. Who are “The Six”? What part
do they play in the novel?
Ans: “The Six” are resolute and unscrupulous gentlemen in the
service of the Duke of Strelsau. There are locals (Ruritanians) and three are
foreigners. The foreign three are De Gautet who’s French, Bersonin who’s
Belgian and Detchard who’s English. Rests of the three who are Ruritanians
include Lauengram, Krafstein and Rupert of Hentzau. Rupert of Hentzau is by far
the most daring and dangerous of the six. Only Rupert of Hentzau is the one who
remains alive at the end of the novel as he kills Black Michael for De Mauban’s
love and escapes during the attack of Rassendyll and his companions to retrieve
the king from castle of Zenda.
The
Six play devilish part in the Devilish plot of Black Michael. Three of them are
always on guard with the strict instruction of Black Michael to kill the king
in case of any attempt to rescue him and other three are always looking to grab
a chance to kill R. Rassendyll.
Q: 54. Rupert is a dashing daredevil. Comment. (2017-Sc)
Ans: Rupert of Hentzau has the touch of
the devil. He is posed as the most dangerous of all the Six in novel. He is bold
and courageous and a real threat to Rudolf Rassendyll and his party. His master
Black Michael fears his skills and attitude. In the novel his daring attempts
and attacks on Rassendyll’s life show that he is brave and dangerous. He
attacked Rassendyll in presence of many men, got successful in injuring him and
escaped. He is fond of Madam De Mauban and desires to marry her. Rupert is a
reckless character who is sincere to none but to himself. He even has the
courage to suggest to Rassendyll to let the king, Sapt and Fritz die, to marry
Flavia and rule Ruritania whereas he himself will kill Black Michael and win
Madam De Mauban. His intentions toward Madam De Mauban lead in an argument and
Rupert of Hentzau kills Black Michael. At the end after killing Michael for
Madam De Mauban, he gives a strong fight to Rudolf Rassendyll. All these facts
from the novel “Prisoner of Zenda” prove that Rupert is a dashing dare-devil.
Q: 55. How and
by whom Duke Michael murdered? (2017-Supply)
Q: Who did kill black Michael and why? (2016-Com) OR
Q:
Why did Rupert kill his own master? (2014-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Rupert is a reckless character who
is sincere to none but to himself. He is fond of Madam De Mauban and desires to
marry her. His intentions toward Madam De Mauban lead in an argument with Black
Michael. In the final course Rupert entered lady Mauban’s room and tried to
molest her but she shrieks to Michael for help. Michael and his loyal servants
rush into the room and have a fight with him. Rupert armed with a sword; fights
and kills Michael and escapes. “Madam De
Mauban’s love made Rupert and Black Michael apart”.
Q: 56.
“Heaven doesn’t choose right men king.” Comment. OR
Q:
What does Fritz Von Tarlenheim mean by saying “Heaven doesn’t always make the
right men kings.”? (2015-Com)
Ans:
Fritz is a very sincere and loyal servant to the king. He gives this remark due
to the careless, irresponsible and carefree attitude of the King that had put
everyone in trouble. Rudolf Elphberg doesn’t care for his coronation ceremony
and drank too much. His behavior in the prison again throws a shadow on his
personality that he needs reformation and rebuilding of his character. It gives
a clear picture to the readers that he would make a very poor type of king but
Heaven gives a chance to such men to mend their ways and learn a lot from their
sufferings.
Q: 57. Who was the Prisoner of Zenda? Why was he
imprisoned? (2014 (Sc/Com, 2013-Sc)
OR
Q: Who played the role of
prisoner in the novel and how was he rescued? (2010- Com)
Ans: Rudolf
Elphberg has played the role of prisoner. He liked to spend a care-free life,
used to drink a lot and listen to music. King was addicted to drink so his brother
Black Michael sent him a drugged wine bottle which he drank and got
unconscious. Black Michael was a black hearted person like his title and he had
appointed three of The Six as vigilant in the room where king was imprisoned.
They had given strict orders to them to hold on against all attacks. If the
attack gets pressing and they felt that they will not be able to hold against
the attackers then Rupert of Detchard or any one of them had to pass into the
inner room and kill the king. The King was imprisoned in the older part of the
castle of Zenda after being kidnapped by Michael’s followers. Johann was Black
Michael’s servant who leaked out the King’s exact position in the castle when
he was captured and forced to reveal what he knew and at last King was rescued
with the help of Madam De Mauban.
Q: 58. What were
the steps taken by Rudolf Rassendyll for the liberation of Rudolf Elphberg? (2015-Sc)
Ans: Rassendyll has inborn qualities of a king. He puts
his own life at risk when he accepts to impersonate the king. Every day being
the imposter he is at risk and to add he makes many attempts to rescue the
king. From the first gallant step in the old city before coronation, facing
Michael gangsters with courage and fighting till last fight with Rupert shows his
bravery. He takes all possible chances to find out the whereabouts of King in
Zenda; puts his own life at risk when he accepts Madam De Mauban’s invitation
to visit Summer House alone; scouting the Castle of Zenda; meeting with Rupert
in Tarlenheim where he got injured, capturing Johan to extract King’s location
and acting on the rescue plan clearly speak about his steps for the liberation
of Rudolf Elphberg.
Q: 59. How does the tea-table
incident turn the table of Michael’s plans? OR
Q: Describe the tea table incident. (2017-Com)
Q: Describe the incident of the attack on Summer House. (2016-Com) OR
Ans: Madam De Mauban invited Rassendyll to her summerhouse
through a letter under Black Michael’s direction and when Rassendyll reached
the summerhouse, she told him about Black Michael’s plan to kill him in anyway,
seize the throne and marry princess Flavia. She also told him that she has made
arrangements to help him flee but he got trapped in Michael’s plan as his men
approach and surround him. Michael’s men offer him a large bribe as well as
safe conduct to the frontier but she forbids him to trust them as they had
clear orders to kill him by every means.
Rudolf
Rassendyll uses his head, pretended that he was agreed and quickly used iron-topped
table as a shield to protect himself. As soon as the gate opened, he hurled
himself on them with the tea-table that caused three of them to tumble down the
stairs. One of them, Detchard, managed to come out from under the table and
tried to fire on Rassendyll but he got safe due to his sharpness, reached to
the ladder, went up the ladder in a minute and fled from summerhouse. This all
turned the table of Michael’s plan of capturing and killing King’s imposter as
well.
Q: 60. How did Rassendyll manage to
escape from the summerhouse safe and sound where he had been trapped by the
three villains? OR
Q: How did Rudolf Rassendyll defend himself in the
summer house? (2017-Sc)
Ans: Duke of Strelsau, Black Michael wanted to get rid of
Rassendyll as the real king had already been kidnapped and kept in his castle
and for that purpose he deputed three professional killers to kill him at the
summerhouse.
When
Madam De Mauban disclosed the plan and asked him to run for his life as the
three foreigners of Michael’s Six were about to arrive at the scene. Before
Rassendyll could realize and flee, Rudolf Rassendyll got trapped in
Michael’s plan as his three
villains approached
and surrounded him in the Summer House. Michael’s men offered him a large bribe
as well as safe conduct to the frontier. Rudolf used his head, pretended that he was
agreed. He displayed great heroism, presence
of mind and fighting spirit and quickly used iron-topped table as a
shield to protect himself. As soon as the gate opened, he hurled himself on
them with the tea-table that caused three of them to tumble down the stairs.
One of them, Detchard, managed to come out from under the table and tried to
fire on Rassendyll but he wounded
him, got
safe due to his sharpness, reached and went up the ladder in a minute and fled
from summerhouse and safely
escaped to Sapt who was waiting outside.
Q: 61. Which incident did you enjoy most in the novel
“Prisoner of Zenda”? (2016-Sc) OR
Q:
Comment on Summer House incident in the novel “Prisoner of Zenda”. (2014-Com-Pvt) OR
Q: Comment briefly on the tea-table
incident in the novel, “The Prisoner of Zenda”. (2012-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Madam
De Mauban invited Rassendyll to her summerhouse through a letter under Black
Michael’s direction and when Rassendyll reached the summerhouse, she told him
about Black Michael’s plan to kill him in anyway, seize the throne and marry
princess Flavia. She also told him that she has made arrangements to help him
flee but he got trapped in Michael’s plan as his men approach and surround him.
Michael’s men offer him a large bribe as well as safe conduct to the frontier
but she forbids him to trust them as they had clear orders to kill him by every
means.
Rudolf
Rassendyll used his head, pretended that he was agreed and quickly used
iron-topped table as a shield to protect himself. As soon as the gate opened,
he hurled himself on them with the tea-table that caused three of them to
tumble down the stairs. One of them, Detchard, managed to come out from under
the table and tried to fire on Rassendyll but he got safe due to his sharpness,
reached to the ladder, went up the ladder in a minute and fled from
summerhouse. This all turned the table of Michael’s plan of capturing and
killing King’s imposter as well.
Q: 62. What is the new use of
tea-table mentioned in the novel?
Ans: When Madam De Mauban invited
Rassendyll to her Summer House and disclosed Michael’s plan of killing him at
any cost, Rassendyll decided to use iron topped tea-table as a shield to remain
safe from gunshots of Michael’s men. When he opened the door, Michael’s three
men fired at him but bullets merely hit the table. He threw the table on them
and they got caught up in it. Rassendyll used the table as a shield and cover
to protect himself from the gunshots of Michael’s man and returned safely to
the palace.
Q: 63.
What was Michael’s security plan / arrangement regarding his
conspiracy? OR
Q:
What was Black Michael’s plan in case any attempt was made to rescue the king? (2014-Com-Reg)
Ans: Black Michael was a black hearted
person like his title and he had appointed three of The Six as vigilant in the
room where king was imprisoned. They had strict orders to them to hold on
against all attacks. If the attack gets pressing and they felt that they will
not be able to hold against the attackers then Rupert of Detchard or any one of
them had to pass into the inner room and kill the king. The killer will unlock
the barred window which is connected with the moat with a large earthenware
pipe and the dead body should be pushed through pipe into the water of the
moat. Moreover, if necessary, they along with the Duke would also pass out
through the pipe and will come back to attack their enemies from behind, who
would thus fall into a trap.
Q: 64. Describe the meeting between
Rassendyll and Rupert of Hentzau in the street of Zenda.
Ans: After the encounter of Black Michael
and Rassendyll’s men, in which two of Michael’s party men and four of
Rassendyll’s party men died, Rassendyll was wandering in the streets of Zenda
with Sapt and Flavia. When they reached near the castle of Zenda, they saw a
funeral procession of those who were killed last night and Rupert of Hentzau
rode behind in black clothes. A dialect between Rassendyll and Rupert took
place in which Rassendyll admired the bravery of Rupert and Rupert suggested a
plan to attack on castle boldly to rescue the king. Rupert assured that he will
kill Black Michael and in that way Rassendyll will get the throne and he will
get Madam De Mauban. Rassendyll didn’t like the idea but Rupert proposed him to
think about it and went back to his friends. Rassendyll discussed the plan with
Flavia and Sapt and told them that he had seen many wicked men but Rupert of
Hentzau was unique.
Q:
65. What does the King’s party plan to save King Elphberg and kill Duke
Michael?
Ans:
Colonel Sapt and his party wanted to use all efforts to save the king by acting
very carefully to restore the King to his throne. Rassendyll made an excellent
plan to save the king, they entered with the help of De Mauban and Michael’s
servant where they had a fight with Michael’s men, killed De Gautet, Searched
his pocket and found the keys of the cellar where King was imprisoned.
Q: 66. What was the exact position
of the king in the Castle of Zenda?
Ans: The King was imprisoned in the older part of the Castle of
Zenda. The only way to approach that part
was the drawbridge and that indirect mode of access formed only passage between
the old building and the outer world. The king was kept in a small room just by
the drawbridge, a room with one window close to the surface of the moat with
entrance only from an inner room.
Q: 67. Where was King Rudolf imprisoned?
By whom was he looked after? OR
Q: Who leaked the King’s exact
position of detention in the castle of Zenda? OR
Where was the king imprisoned in
castle of Zenda after being kidnapped by Black Michael’s followers?
Ans: The King was imprisoned in the older part of the castle of
Zenda after being kidnapped by Michael’s followers. Johann was Black Michael’s
servant who leaked out the King’s exact position in the castle when he was
captured and forced to reveal what he knew. According to his information, the
king was imprisoned in a small room in the old castle just by the drawbridge, a
room with one window close to the surface of the moat. Three of Michael’s
faithful followers “The Six” were ordered to keep an eye on him and kill him in
case of any try to rescue him.
Q: 68. How was Johann persuaded to
work as an informer against his master, Black Michael?
Ans: Johann was the personal and trustworthy servant of the Duke
of Strelsau, Black Michael, living with his master in the New Castle of Zenda.
He was in love with one of the daughters of the Inn-Keeper at Zenda where
Rassendyll had stayed before his meeting with the real king and his attendants
and the coronation ceremony. Rassendyll took the advantage of love affair to
persuade Johann to work as an informer against his master Black Michael. Johann
was captured successfully when he came to meet her beloved out of Zenda. He
convinced Johann to deliver information about the prisoner king by threats and
surety that he will not be harmed if Michael and his rotten followers were
arrested in consequently. Johann agreed to cooperate with the king’s men for
his own safety and safety of his love in future.
Q: 69. How Rupert did seriously
injure Rassendyll in the presence of his friends at the Chateau De Tarlenheim?
Ans: When Rupert met Rassendyll on the terrace of the Chateau De
Tarlenheim, he gave an offer for Rassendyll from Black Michael of a million
crown and a safe conduct to the frontier but Rassendyll refused.
When
Rupert of Hentzau was mounting his horse after the visit, he hurled a dagger
towards Rassendyll. Fortunately, Rassendyll saw the flash of Dagger blade in
the sunlight and quickly moved his body away. As a result, the dagger missed
Rassendyll’s heart and pierced into his shoulder. Rupert escaped unharmed as
his horse darted into the forest with the rider followed by ineffective pistol
shots. Rassendyll was badly injured and it was a huge shock for the king’s
camp.
Q: 70. “I have been bitten by a
Mongrel dog”, discuss with reference of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”.
Ans: The phrase bitten by mongrel dog
means, a dog of mixed breed. This remark is a reference to Duke Michael’s
family back ground, whose mother was a commoner though his father was king. He
doesn’t have blue blood and he doesn’t belong to a royal family either. One of
his Six’s had wounded Rudolf Rassendyll from the back, Michael meets him and
inquires about his injury. Rassendyll makes these remarks and in reply Black
Michael looks at him and says, “The dog is very dangerous Sir, it doesn’t spare
anyone in the second bite.”
Q: 71. How did Black Michael die in
the novel?
Ans: Rupert of Hentzau loved Madam De Mauban and wanted to marry
her whereas Madam De Mauban loved Black Michael. When Rupert showed his
intentions and asked her to come with him, Madam De Mauban shouted and called
Michael for help. Black Michael with his servants came in room and had an
argument with Rupert of Hentzau. Rupert was armed with a sword so, he stabbed
Michael with it, jumped in the moat and escaped.
Q: 72. Describe Rupert’s escape from
Zenda and his last encounter with Rassendyll in the forest of Zenda.
Ans: Rupert Killed Michael and jumped into the moat. Rassendyll
followed him but could not gain as he was wounded. Rupert got out of the moat
and ran towards forest. In this chase Rassendyll got into forest and though he
was injured and tired, kept following Rupert. Soon he caught sight of Rupert
and challenged him in loud voice. Rupert laughed and made fun of Rassendyll but
didn’t stop. Rupert saw a girl with a horse standing nearby and as Rassendyll
was reaching close, he snatched the horse from girl, got on it and was about to
run, when Rassendyll challenged him again and attacked him. In return Rupert
also attacked and made Rassendyll feel down, before Rupert could crush him,
Fritz fired on Rupert and Rupert fired on Fritz too. Rupert ran away and
vanished in the forest. If Fritz had not reached in time, Rassendyll would have
been killed by Rupert.
Q:
73. Describe the last painful meeting between Flavia and Rudolf Rassendyll.
Ans:
The most
tragic episode of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda” is the last meeting between
Princess Flavia and Rudolf Rassendyll. The war for crown and throne has
shattered her dreams and she is at a cross of love and responsibility. She
confessed her love and told Rassendyll that she will keep his ring on her
finger but she has to sacrifice her love for the sake of country and for the
love of people.
Q:
74. Anthony Hope has been more faithful to the male characters than female
characters in his novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. Give your answer with valid
reasons.
Ans:
Reader can easily agree that Anthony Hope has been more faithful to male
characters than female ones in his novel “The Prisoner of Zenda.” All the
female characters are partially drawn. They are drawn in sections and behave
like their counter parts in actual life. As it is a story of conspiracies,
adventure, political enmity, Palace intrigues and unaware subjects, so man are
more involved and discussed as compared to the women in the story.
Q: 75. Why does Rassendyll not want to
do any job?
Ans:
Rudolf Rassendyll believes that a person like him who belongs to a noble and
rich family does not need to do any job as they can lead a good life just
depending upon the wealth that their ancestors have left for them. So, if he is
not a needy one then doing a job will be like an illogical burden on him.
Q: 76. Who persuades Rudolf Rassendyll
to do a job and why does he accept it?
Ans:
Miss Rose, the sister-in-law to Rudolf Rassendyll, insists him to do a job. He
tries to convince her that he doesn’t need a job due to his comfortable and
luxurious life but she doesn’t stop persuading him. When she doesn’t stop and
refers a job that has to start after six months, he thinks that by accepting it
he could stop her from this every now and then labour.
Q: 77. Who were Rassendyll’s friends in
Paris?
Ans: Rassendyll
had mainly two friends in Paris, George Featherly, who was rendering his services
as a Diplomat in the British Embassy in Paris and Bertrand Bertram, a poet and
journalist who worked with a London newspaper named Critic.
Q: 78. Where did Rassendyll stay when he
reached Ruritania?
Ans: When
Rudolf entered Ruritania to attend new ‘Kings Coronation Ceremony at Strelsau,
he was informed that the Coronation has been postponed. It seemed to find any
accommodation in Strelsau, Rassendyll decided to stay at Zenda, a small town 10
miles from the border and 50 miles from the Capital. He stayed in an Inn-Kept
owned by a woman who was mother-in-law to be of Johann, the gamekeeper of Black
Michael.
Q: 79. What information did Rudolf
receive about the king-to-be at border and by whom?
Ans:
The Inn-Kept where Rudolf Rassendyll stayed at Zenda, was kept by a kind old
woman. She lived in the Inn with her daughters and through their conversation
Rassendyll came to know that King was in the forest of Zenda on a hunting
expedition. He also came to know about Black Michael, half brother of the King
and that the people of state have mixed opinion about making Black Michael or
Rudolf Elphberg next king.
Q: 80. Who was Joseph and what had
happened to him?
Ans: Joseph
was a faithful and loyal servant of the king. He shaved off Rassendyll and
helped Col Sapt and Fritz to impersonate the King. He met a tragic death by the
hands of Black Michael’s men when they attacked shooting lodge. His body was
put in the cellar to confuse King’s party of the dead body of King.
Q: 81. How was the secret of Rudolf
Rassendyll dawned upon Princess Flavia and what was her reaction?
Ans: Princess
Flavia was informed that the King got seriously injured in the turmoil at
Zenda, on her way to Castle of Zenda a farm girl disclosed that the King is
lying unconscious in the bushes in forest. It was the moment when Colonel Sapt
had to reveal the real identity of Rudolf Rassendyll. First there was wonder,
then confusion in her mind and at the end she realized that Rudolf Rassendyll
was not the real king or her finacee.
Q: 82. What is meant by Cloak and Dagger
story?
Ans: The
term Cloak and Dagger story refers to a melodramatic intrigues and espionage.
The novel “Prisoner of Zenda” is an excellent example of it. From the
beginning, Rassendyll’s idea of adventure to witness the Coronation ceremony,
becoming the victim of Rurtanian conspiracies, getting attacked by Michael’s
men at summerhouse and Zenda, bloodshed and struggle to recover the real King
and till the end when the efforts are successful, Prisoner of Zenda displays
all remarkable characteristics of Cloak and Dagger Story.
Q: 83. “The Devil has his share in most
things”. Comment.
Ans:
Colonel Sapt spoke these words to Rudolf Rassendyll when he bade farewell to
Rudolf Rassendyll on station. Rassendyll was returning from Ruritania after
successful attack on Castle of Zenda and recovering the king and saving the
throne of Ruritania. Colonel Sapt uttered these words to tribute the self
sacrifice and efforts of Rudolf Rassendyll that he took in rescuing the King
and saving the throne. Sapt acknowledges that Rassendyll is a responsible,
sensible and a combination of outstanding qualities. He is also referring
Rudolf Elphberg by saying this line as he is no match to Rudolf Rassendyll and
not better yet has the crown and Princess both.
Q: 84. What had prevented Rudolf Rassendyll
from going on the wrong track?
Ans:
Rassendyll was a gentleman and a man of honour. He had fallen in love with
Princess Flavia on their first meeting but his integrity, honour and strong
values had prevented him from doing what his emotions and heart desired. He had
no desire for the position he held nor had any intentions to keep it for him.
He loved Princess Flavia and was going
through an agony to keep himself detached from Princess. He planned to rescue
the King as soon as possible before his emotions overcome him and he loses his
control to decide something that might ruin the efforts.
Q: 85. What invention was given the name “Jacob’s
Ladder” by Rupert? What was its use?
Ans: Black
Michael had affixed a great earthenware pipe at the square window of the room
where King was kept in Castle of Zenda. The pipe was wide enough for a body to
pass through. It ended immediately above the surface of the water in the moat,
so that there was no interval between pipe and water. If a body tied with weight
was thrown through the pipe, it would directly go to the bottom of the moat
which was about twenty feet deep. Rupert named this invention of Black Michael
as Jacob’s ladder or Ladder of Jacob. However, this ladder had taken the King
not to heaven like the real Ladder of Jacob but to the bottom on moat. He
mentioned it to the King when the pipe was being fixed that being a king he
should not go by the common route. Black Michael had ordered his men to kill
the king and slip his body in the moat through the pipe, if any rescue attempt
was made on the castle. No one would know as the body will drown in the moat
without splash.