ICSE Class 10 2013 Question Paper English literature

ICSE Class 10 2013 Question Paper English literature. Students can download the last year question papers using the link below. Free download of examination question papers with solutions. Last 10 year question papers should be practised to get better marks in examinations.

English Literature Question Paper

SECTION A - DRAMA

Shakespeare: Julius Caesar

Question 1

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

Cassius : Why, man, he doth bestride the narrow world

Like a Colossus; and we petty men

Walk under his huge legs, and peep about

To find ourselves dishonourable graves.

Men at some time are masters of their fates:

The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars,

But in ourselves, that we are underlings.

i. What is referred to as 'a Colossus'? Why does Cassius compare Caesar to the Colossus? 

ii. 'Men at some time are masters of their fates.' Name two people who warn Caesar about his fate. What do they say? What is Caesar's reaction to the warnings? 

iii. Later in the scene, what reasons does Caesar give to Antony for considering Cassius 'dangerous'?

iv. Which two instances does Cassius give to prove that Caesar is a physically weak person?

v. Mention any three vital errors of judgement that Brutus makes. In your opinion, which particular trait in his character brings about his downfall? 

Question 2

Read the extract given below and answer the question that follow:

Antony : If you have tears, prepare to shed them now,

You all do know this mantle: I remember

The first time ever Caesar put it on;

'T was on a summer's evening, in his tent,

That day he overcame the Nervii.

Look, in this place ran Cassius' dagger through:

See what a rent the envious Casca made:

Through this the well-beloved Brutus stabb'd;

i. Who were the 'Nervii'? Why does Antony mention the names of Cassius, Casca and Brutus as he shows the mob the mantle?

ii. State two arguments put forward by Antony earlier to prove that Caesar was not ambitious. 

iii. 'Through this the well-beloved Brutus stabb'd.' Why does Antony refer to Brutus as 'well-beloved'? Why was the stabbing of Caesar by Brutus referred to as 'the most unkindest cut of all'? 

iv. Which document does Antony have with him during his speech? What are the contents of the document? 

v. At the end of the play, Antony says of Brutus, 'This was the noblest Roman of them all ......' What explanation does Antony give to justify his statement? 

Question 3

Read the extract given below and answer the questions that follow:

Ronnie (opening his eyes) : Yes, Father?

Arthur I am reading the account of the debate. Would you like

to listen, or would you rather go to bed?

Ronnie Oh, I'd like to listen, of course, Father. I was listening,

too, only I had my eyes shut-

Arthur Very well. (Reading)

i. How old is Ronnie? How was Ronnie introduced to the readers in the beginning of the play? 

ii. What is 'the debate' about? In 'the account' what is said about Ronnie? 

iii. Who enters shortly after? What does this person say and what is Arthur's reply?

iv. What does Catherine say when she enters and sees Ronnie fast asleep? 

v. What is Ronnie accused of ? How do Dickie and Grace react to the accusation? State, giving one reason, the impression you form of Ronnie from the above extract. 

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