CLASS: B.A.

SEMESTER I
SUBJECT: ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS - I
BOOK PRESCRIBED: PROSE FOR YOUNG LEARNERS

I. ‘On Spendthrifts’ by A. G. Gardiner

Question: Character Traits of Spendthrifts and Misers in A. G. Gardiner's ‘On Spendthrifts’

Answer: A. G. Gardiner's essay ‘On Spendthrifts’ is a reflective and humorous study of the
contrasting character traits of spendthrifts and misers. Gardiner, with his characteristic blend of
humour and insight, examines the lives of these two types of people, using anecdotes and
observations to reveal the underlying qualities that define them. His essay is not merely an
analysis of financial habits but an exploration of the psychological and moral dimensions of
human behaviour.

Spendthrifts, as described by Gardiner, are the spirit of generosity as well as carelessness. They
are individuals who are careless in their spending. They live for the moment, often disregarding
the future or the consequences of their actions. Gardiner portrays them as people who find joy in
giving and in the act of spending itself, regardless of whether their resources allow for such
behaviour.

One of the key character traits of spendthrifts is their generosity. Gardiner suggests that
spendthrifts often have a natural desire to share what they have with others, even if it is borrowed
money. This generosity is not always logical, but it is driven by a desire to please others.Their
generous spending habits also get them lots of friends. For example, Gardiner describes how
spendthrifts would not hesitate to buy an expensive gift for a friend or spend lavishly on a social
gathering, even if they have to borrow money to do so. Their pleasure lies in the act of spending
money even if it seems unwise. Gardiner uses the examples of Ida Sitwell who has been
imprisoned as a result of her reckless spending habits, his charming friend Jack, a typical
spendthrift, who spends his money as soon as he gets it, often on trivial pleasures, and Jones’
young wife who has caused her husband financial ruin because of her careless behaviour in the
matters of money, to illustrate his point that the generosity of spendthrifts hurt the people around
them. This generosity is coupled with a sense of recklessness. Spendthrifts are often unaware of
the long-term consequences of their actions. They live in the present, ignoring the fact that their
resources are limited. Gardiner humorously notes that a spendthrift might empty their wallet on a
whim, only to find themselves in financial trouble shortly after. This recklessness is not just
about money; it reflects a broader approach to life, where immediate satisfaction of desires is
more important than careful planning or caution.
Gardiner also touches on the idea that spendthrifts often have an optimistic outlook on life. They
believe that things will somehow work out, that fortune will smile upon them, or that they will be
able to manage when the time comes. This optimism, while endearing, is often unrealistic and
can lead to financial ruin. Yet, there is something admirable about their carefree attitude and their
refusal to be weighed down by worries about the future.

In contrast to the spendthrift, the miser is characterised by a strong fear of loss and a continuous
need for security. Gardiner presents misers as individuals who are obsessed with hoarding
wealth, often at the expense of their own comfort and happiness. Unlike the spendthrift, who
lives for the present, the miser is preoccupied with the future, always worrying about potential
problems in future and driven by the need to protect what they have.

The defining trait of a miser is their extreme frugality. Gardiner illustrates this with examples of
people who would rather suffer discomfort than part with their money. For instance, he mentions
the case of a man who refused to buy new clothes even though his old ones were threadbare, or
the miser who would walk great distances to avoid paying a small fare. This frugality is not
motivated by necessity but by an irrational fear of losing money.

Misers are also marked by their inability to enjoy their wealth. Gardiner points out the irony that,
despite their accumulation of riches, misers often live like paupers. They derive satisfaction not
from spending or using their wealth but from the mere fact of possessing it. This hoarding
behaviour is linked to a deep-seated insecurity, a fear that if they spend their money, they will be
left vulnerable. Gardiner suggests that this fear is often irrational, as many misers have more than
enough to live comfortably but are still unable to let go of their money.

Moreover, Gardiner hints at the moral and emotional effects of being a miser. He suggests that
misers are often isolated and lonely, as their obsession with money prevents them from forming
close relationships. As they are extremely selfish in matters of money, they have no friends.
Misers are distrustful of others and are afraid that people only want to take their money.

Gardiner's essay ultimately suggests that neither the spendthrift nor the miser represents an ideal
approach to life. While the spendthrift's generosity and optimism are admirable, their
recklessness can lead to financial instability and ruin. On the other hand, the miser's frugality and
caution may provide security, but at the cost of happiness and human connection.

The ideal, Gardiner implies, is a balance between these two extremes. A person should be
generous but not reckless, cautious but not miserly. They should enjoy their wealth without being
controlled by it and be mindful of the future without sacrificing the joys of the present.
Gardiner's essay serves as a reminder that our approach to money reflects our broader attitudes
toward life, and that finding the right balance is key to both financial stability and personal
fulfilment.

II. ‘The Power of Women’ by Richard Gordon

Question: How was Grimsdyke’s life deeply influenced by the ‘power of women’?

Answer: Richard Gordon's essay ‘The Power of Women’, offers a tongue-in-cheek exploration
of the character, Grimsdyke, a seemingly strong and independent character, who finds himself
swayed and controlled by the women around him. Grimsdyke's life is depicted as being deeply
influenced by women, highlighting their subtle yet powerful influence on his decisions,
behaviour, and overall life trajectory. Grimsdyke's journey to becoming a doctor is humorously
depicted with significant influence from both his grandmother and his girlfriend. Their roles in
shaping his career path highlight the often understated but powerful impact women can have on a
man's life.

Grimsdyke's grandmother is depicted as a formidable and traditional figure who exerts a strong
influence on his life choices. She has a deep reverence for the medical profession as, in her old
age, she was cared for by the efficient physicians. Seeing it as a respectable and secure
profession, she is determined that Grimsdyke should become a doctor. Despite Grimsdyke's lack
of enthusiasm for the medical field, his grandmother's insistence leaves him with little choice,
demonstrating the power of his grandmother in shaping his career. After her death, she leaves
him a substantial inheritance with one crucial condition that Grimsdyke will be given one
thousand pounds annual allowance for the duration of his medical studies.

Taking advantage of this condition, he decides to stay in the Medical school for as long as
possible to enjoy his annual allowance. He intentionally fails in his anatomy class to prolong his
stay in the medical school and enjoys a comfortable life in London without the need to do any
hard work. He has a decent flat in Knightsbridge, a car named ‘Ulcer’, lots of friends and plenty
of free time. The condition of his inheritance received from the grandmother makes Grimsdyke a
chronic hanger-on in Medical school. Not only does Grimsdyke’s grandmother influence his
decision to go to Medical School, she also inadvertently influenced him to perpetually stay there.

Grimsdyke's girlfriend also plays a pivotal role in shaping his life. Portrayed as strong-willed,
clever and demanding, she realises the secret of Grimsdyke’s carefree life. She acts as a catalyst
for change or disruption in his life by giving him an ultimatum that she’ll marry an ‘embryo
doctor’ but not a ‘chronic hanger-on’ in Medical School. Her expectations, combined with his
desire to please her, push him towards realising his grandmother’s wish. While he may not have
the same passion for medicine as his grandmother wished, his desire to please his girlfriend and
live up to her expectations becomes a motivating factor. Gordon uses this dynamic to explore
how romantic relationships can shape personal ambitions and decisions, often leading individuals
to pursue paths they might not have chosen on their own.
Throughout the story, Gordon uses wit and humour to highlight the sometimes overwhelming
power that women can have over men. Grimsdyke's life, shaped by the desires and expectations
of the women around him, becomes a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings. The
essay humorously illustrates how these women, through their financial and emotional
manipulation, guide his actions and decisions. The dual influence of his grandmother and
girlfriend is a testament to the power of the women in Grimsdyke's life. Despite his own
uncertainties and lack of direction, their combined expectations shape his destiny, often with
humorous and unintended consequences.Grimsdyke, who might otherwise consider himself
rational and independent, is shown to be helpless in the face of female influence when it comes
to matters of the heart.

‘The Power of Women’ is a light-hearted exploration of the dynamics between men and women,
particularly the subtle and not-so-subtle ways in which women can influence the direction of a
man's life. Through Grimsdyke's experiences, Gordon illustrates the humorous consequences of
these dynamics, making the story both entertaining and insightful. The writer also uses
Grimsdyke’s experiences as a vehicle for a broader commentary on gender dynamics. The essay
humorously suggests that women hold a subtle but undeniable power over men. This power is
not about overt control or dominance but rather about influence, persuasion, and the ability to
guide decisions.

III. ‘A Dialogue on Democracy’ by Albert Hornby Sydney

Question: What are the suggestions that Jack and Anne put forward for a proper democracy? Do
they find any definite definition of democracy in their conversation?

Answer: Albert Hornby Sydney's essay ‘A Dialogue on Democracy’ is a thoughtful exploration

of the concept of democracy presented in a conversational format that allows the author to
examine various perspectives on what democracy truly means. The essay discusses various
definitions of democracy, its core principles and the challenges it faces in practice. Through the
dialogue, Sydney provides a detailed discussion that highlights the complexity of democratic
governance.

In ‘A Dialogue on Democracy’, the concept of democracy is explored through different lenses.

Democracy, in its most basic sense, is defined as a government “of the people, by the people, and
for the people”. It is a system of government where power is vested in the people, either directly
or through elected representatives. This definition highlights the fundamental principle that
democracy is a form of governance that relies on the collective will of the people.

The essay contrasts this with other forms of government, such as autocracy or oligarchy, where
power is concentrated in the hands of one individual or a small group. In a democracy, the
legitimacy of power is derived from the consent of the governed, and the government is
accountable to the people.

The origin of democracy can be traced back to ancient Greece, particularly in the city-state of
Athens, where the concept of direct democracy was first practised. In Athens, citizens
participated directly in decision-making processes, a system that allowed for a high degree of
civic engagement. However, it is important to note that this early form of democracy was limited
to a small segment of the population, excluding women, slaves, and non-citizens.

The essay also discusses the evolution of democracy over time, particularly the shift from direct
to representative democracy. As societies grew larger and more complex, direct participation by
all citizens became impractical, leading to the development of systems where elected
representatives act on behalf of the people. This transition marks a significant development in the
history of democracy, as it allowed for broader participation in governance while maintaining the
core democratic principle of rule by the people.

Through the conversation between Jack and Anne, the essay contrasts the democratic systems of
the United States and the United Kingdom, highlighting their similarities and differences. Both
countries are seen as exemplars of modern democracy but their systems of governance reflect
different historical contexts and philosophical foundations.

In the United States, democracy is grounded in the Constitution which establishes a federal
system of government with a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and
judicial branches. The U.S. system is characterised by its emphasis on individual rights, checks
and balances, and the rule of law. The concept of ‘government of the people, by the people, for
the people’, as articulated by Abraham Lincoln, is a central tenet of American democracy.

In contrast, British democracy is based on a parliamentary system, where the government is

formed by the party (or coalition) that holds the majority in the House of Commons. The British
system is more flexible and less rigid than the American system, relying on conventions and
traditions. The role of the monarchy, although largely ceremonial, is another distinctive feature
of British democracy. The essay explores how the British system allows for more rapid
adaptation to changing political circumstances, while the U.S. system provides a more stable and
predictable framework.

In discussing the modern meanings of democracy, the essay addresses how the concept has
evolved and expanded in contemporary times. Today, democracy is not only about the mechanics
of elections and governance but also encompasses broader ideals such as social justice, equality,
and human rights. Democracy is built on the idea that all citizens are equal in the eyes of the law
and have an equal right to participate in the political process. This principle is central to the
concept of democracy, as it ensures that every individual has a voice and that no one is above the
law. Another core principle of democracy is the protection of individual freedom including
freedom of speech, assembly, and the press. These freedoms are essential for the functioning of a
democratic society, as they allow for open debate, dissent and the exchange of ideas. Moreover,
in a democracy, elected officials are accountable to the people who elect them. This
accountability is enforced through regular elections, where citizens have the power to remove
leaders who do not represent their interests or who fail to govern effectively. The essay
highlights how modern democracies are increasingly judged by their ability to uphold these
values and ensure the welfare of all citizens.

In addition to these core themes, ‘A Dialogue on Democracy’ also explores the relationship
between democracy and education, the role of the media, and the importance of civic
engagement. The essay argues that for democracy to function effectively, citizens must be
informed, engaged, and willing to participate in the democratic process. The role of education in
promoting these qualities is emphasised, as is the need for a free and independent media to
provide accurate information and hold those in power accountable. The dialogue suggests that a
true democracy must protect the rights of all citizens, not just the majority but also the
minorities.Towards the end of the essay, the dialogue shifts to a discussion of how democracy is
practised in the real world where the citizens may not be equal but are treated equally.

Albert Hornby Sydney's ‘A Dialogue on Democracy’ provides a comprehensive discussion on

the concept of democracy from its historical origins to its modern interpretations. Sydney's essay
serves as a reminder that democracy is not just a system of government, but a way of life that
requires active participation, constant vigilance and a commitment to the principles that make it
possible.

V. ‘The Universal Declaration Of Human Rights’ - UN Charter

Question: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a charter for the full growth of the
potential of a human being. Discuss in detail.

Answer: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations
General Assembly in 1948, is a milestone document that sets out fundamental human rights to be
universally protected. These rights, outlined in 30 articles, form the foundation for freedom,
justice and peace in the world. They are designed to ensure that every individual can achieve
their full potential in life, free from any oppression and discrimination. Crafted in the aftermath
of World War II, a time when the world was struggling with the horrors of war and the
Holocaust, the declaration was a response to these crimes against humanities aiming to prevent
such suffering in the future by establishing a common standard of human rights for all people,
regardless of nationality, ethnicity, gender or religion.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights comprises a broad range of rights which can be
broadly categorised into civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights. Together, these
rights form a comprehensive framework for human dignity and development.
Civil and political rights, often referred to as “first-generation” rights, are primarily concerned
with the protection of individual freedoms and the fair treatment of individuals by the state.
These rights include:

Right to Life, Liberty, and Security which ensures that every individual is entitled to live a life
free from arbitrary arrest, detention, or deprivation of life. It is the cornerstone of all other rights,
as it guarantees the basic security needed for individuals to thrive.

Freedom from Torture and Inhumane Treatment: This right safeguards individuals from
physical and psychological abuse and emphasises the importance of treating every human being
with dignity and respect.

Right to Equality Before the Law: This principle asserts that all individuals are equal before
the law and are entitled to equal protection without any discrimination.The right to a fair and
public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal is crucial for ensuring justice and
accountability. It protects individuals from unjust persecution and allows them to seek redress for
grievances.

Freedom of Thought and Religion: This right allows individuals to hold and practise their
beliefs freely, thereby fostering a sense of identity and personal growth.

Freedom of Expression and Assembly: These rights ensure that individuals can speak their
minds, share ideas, and assemble peacefully. They are vital for the development of a civil society,
where individuals can participate in public life and contribute to the collective good.

Right to Participate in Government: This article guarantees the right to take part in the
political process, either directly or through freely chosen representatives.

Economic, social, and cultural rights, or “second-generation” rights, focus on ensuring that
individuals have the resources and opportunities necessary for their well-being and development.
These rights include:

Right to Work and Fair Wages: The right to work is fundamental to an individual's ability to
support themselves and their families. Fair wage ensures that workers are compensated justly for
their labour which allows them to live with dignity and pursue their personal goals.

Right to Education : Education is a powerful tool for personal and societal development. It
equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to realise their potential, contribute to
their communities and improve their quality of life.

Right to Health and Well-being: The right to an adequate standard of living, including access
to healthcare, is crucial for ensuring that individuals can lead healthy, productive lives. Good
health is an essential requirement for pursuing personal aspirations and participating fully in
society.

Right to Participate in Cultural Life (Article 27): Cultural rights allow individuals to engage
in their cultural traditions and practices. This creates a sense of identity and belonging which is
essential for personal fulfilment and social unity.

The rights outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights are not just abstract principles;
they are essential for the full development of individuals and the realisation of their potential.
The rights to life, liberty, security, and participation in government empower individuals to take
control of their lives and make meaningful choices. By guaranteeing freedom from fear and
oppression, these rights allow individuals to pursue their goals and ambitions without undue
interference. Political rights, such as the right to vote and participate in government, ensure that
individuals have a voice in shaping the society they live in promoting a sense of agency and
responsibility.

Rights such as freedom from torture, equality before the law, and freedom of thought and
religion are crucial in upholding the dignity of a human being. When individuals are treated with
respect and their rights are protected, they are more likely to develop a strong sense of
self-worth. This, in turn, enhances their ability to contribute positively to society and reach their
full potential.

The right to education is perhaps one of the most significant contributors to human potential.
Education equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary
to navigate the world and contribute meaningfully to their communities. It opens doors to
opportunities and empowers individuals to challenge injustices, and to innovate and lead.
Economic security allows individuals to meet their basic needs, pursue their interests, and
contribute to the economy. A fair and just work environment also provides a sense of purpose
and fulfilment, enabling individuals to develop their talents and skills.

The right to health and well-being is critical for physical and mental development. Access to
adequate food, shelter, and healthcare ensures that individuals can live healthy lives, free from
the devastating effects of poverty and disease. The right to participate in cultural life is vital for
the preservation and development of individual and collective identities. Cultural expression
allows individuals to connect with their heritage, express their creativity and engage with their
community.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights lays the foundation for a world where every
individual can realise their full potential. By protecting civil and political freedoms, ensuring
access to economic and social resources, and recognising the importance of collective rights, the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights creates an environment where people can live with
dignity, pursue their aspirations and contribute to the betterment of society. It is a constant
guiding principle reminding us of the importance of human rights in realising the full potential of
every person, and in turn, creating a world where everyone can thrive.

Question: How, according to you, does India fare with regard to the rights proposed in the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights?

Answer: India, a nation deeply rooted in democratic principles, has often been praised for its
commitment to human rights. As a founding member of the United Nations and an active
participant in the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the country
has always promoted the ideals of equality, liberty, and dignity. However, a detailed examination
reveals a complex interplay of progress and challenges in India's journey towards realising the
full scope of human rights in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Indian Constitution is one of the most detailed charters of rights globally and stands as a
testament to the country's aspiration for human rights. It guarantees fundamental rights,
including the right to life, liberty, equality, freedom of speech and expression, and religion. These
provisions match significantly with the Declaration's core principles. India has also enacted
numerous laws to protect specific rights, such as the Right to Information Act and the Protection
of Human Rights Act, demonstrating a proactive approach to upholding human rights.

On the positive side, India has made substantial progress in certain areas. The country has
witnessed significant progress in terms of political rights, with free and fair elections, a vibrant
civil society, and a relatively independent judiciary. Women's rights have also gained importance,
with laws against domestic violence and sexual harassment in place. Additionally, India's
commitment to social and economic rights is evident in programmes aimed at reducing poverty
and promoting education and healthcare.

However, the picture is far from perfect. Deep-rooted social inequalities, caste-based
discrimination, and gender bias continue to affect the nation. The treatment of many
communities, including Dalits, Adivasis, and religious minorities, often falls short of human
rights standards. Violence against women, particularly in rural areas, remains a serious concern.
The criminal justice system is overburdened, leading to delays and inadequate protection for
victims. Moreover, freedom of speech and expression, while constitutionally guaranteed, is
subject to restrictions, particularly in matters of national security and public order.

The challenge of balancing security concerns with civil liberties has been a constant issue.
Counterterrorism measures have sometimes led to human rights violations, such as arbitrary
detentions and torture. The complex interplay between tradition, religion, and law often results in
discriminatory practices, particularly against women and lower castes. The slow speed of
economic development and the wide gap between the rich and poor increase social tensions and
create problems in the realisation of economic and social rights.
In conclusion, India's human rights record is a mixed bag. While the country has made
commendable progress in certain areas, significant challenges remain. To fully realise the ideals
mentioned in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, India must address deep-rooted social
inequalities, strengthen its institutions, and ensure accountability for human rights violations. A
sustained commitment to human rights, coupled with effective implementation of laws and
policies, is essential for building a just and equitable society.

VI. ‘Symptoms’ by Jerome K. Jerome

Question: “The author seems to make fun of himself, but is really making fun of a common
human weakness, using exaggeration and cleverly chosen words to produce humour.” Discuss in
detail.

Answer: In Jerome K. Jerome’s essay ‘Symptoms’, the narrator skillfully uses humour to
explore the universal human tendency towards hypochondria—an exaggerated fear of illness. At
first glance, it appears that Jerome is merely making fun of himself, but upon closer examination,
it becomes clear that his real target is a broader and more universal human weakness: our
tendency to self-diagnose and imagine the worst-case scenario.

The narrator begins by recounting his own experiences with medical textbooks and his resulting
conclusion that he suffers from almost every known ailment. This self-deprecating humour is
central to the essay's charm. Jerome presents himself as a victim of his own imagination, a
person who, after reading medical literature, is convinced that he is on the brink of death. This
exaggeration of his own response to medical information creates an amusing image of a man
who is so overwhelmed by his own thoughts that he is unable to maintain a rational perspective.

Jerome's use of exaggeration is key to the essay’s humour. He describes how, after reading about
various diseases, he is certain that he has all the diseases like Ague fever, Bright’s disease,
Cholera, Liver disease, Scarlet fever, Zymosis except for one - housemaid's knee. He humorously
laments this exception, as though he is disappointed that he doesn't suffer from every malady
known to man. This hyperbole is not meant to be taken literally but serves to highlight the
absurdity of hypochondria. The narrator then humorously describes his exaggerated and
irrational self-examination. Initially, he panics because he can't find his pulse and thinks he has
no heartbeat. Then, suddenly, his pulse seems to race uncontrollably, reaching an absurd rate of
hundred and forty-seven beats per minute. When he checks his heart, he believes it has
completely stopped beating. This reflects the narrator's hypochondria where his overactive
imagination leads him to believe he is experiencing extreme symptoms. By taking his own
experience to such an extreme, Jerome allows the reader to recognise and laugh at the more mild
but similar tendencies in themselves and others.
The scene where the narrator visits his doctor adds to the humour in the story by delivering an
unexpected but perfectly fitting resolution to the narrator’s exaggerated fears. The narrator has
convinced himself that he is suffering from numerous life-threatening illnesses based on his
misguided self-diagnosis. He expects the doctor to confirm his worst fears, adding to the tension
and drama he has built up in his mind. However, the doctor’s simple prescription—a vacation
and a break from reading about diseases—highlights the absurdity of the narrator’s previous
worries. Instead of a complex treatment or a serious prognosis, the narrator is told to do
something as mundane as taking a break. The humour lies in the contrast between the narrator’s
expectations and the doctor’s calm and almost dismissive response. The irony is that the
narrator’s real problem isn’t a physical illness at all, but rather his obsessive worrying and
over-analysis caused by his non-professional medical research. This moment of realisation,
where the narrator is confronted with the simplicity of the solution to his imagined ailments, adds
a layer of irony to the story. It pokes fun at the human tendency to overcomplicate minor issues,
and it serves as a comedic reminder that, sometimes, the best remedy is to simply relax and not
take things too seriously.

Jerome's clever choice of words adds another layer of humour to the essay. His dry wit and
playful language turn what could be a boring topic into a delightful exploration of human folly.
For example, when Jerome talks about his relief at not having a housemaid's knee, his humour
lies in the absurdity of feeling disappointed by the absence of an illness. The language he uses
makes the reader aware that this is a joke, and through this, Jerome invites the reader to join him
in laughing at the silliness of such worries.

While Jerome appears to mock only himself, his true aim is broader. The essay gently critiques
the common human weakness of irrational fear and anxiety regarding health. Jerome illustrates
how easily people can be swayed by what they read or hear, leading them to irrational
conclusions about their well-being. His humorous portrayal of a chronic hypochondriac serves as
a mirror for the audience, reflecting the often unreasonable nature of human fear when it comes
to health.

In Symptoms, Jerome K. Jerome masterfully uses humour to critique a common human

weakness: the tendency to exaggerate health concerns. Through self-deprecating humour,
exaggeration, clever wordplay, and a gentle critique of human nature, Jerome creates an essay
that is both entertaining and insightful. While he seems to be making fun of himself, the true
target of his humour is the universal human tendency to let irrational fears dominate our
thoughts.