Attila Questions and Answers
Attila: Summary
Attila, the central character in the story "Attila," is portrayed as a troubled and mysterious individual who seeks solace and companionship. Initially depicted as a loner, Attila's troubled past and enigmatic nature captivate the curiosity of the family who offers him shelter. His demeanor and actions evoke a sense of sadness and vulnerability, hinting at the emotional burdens he carries. As the story unfolds, Attila's character gradually transforms through the warmth and acceptance he receives from the family. With each interaction, he reveals a deeper side, displaying genuine gratitude and a desire for connection. Attila's journey highlights the potential for personal growth and healing, emphasizing the power of compassion and understanding in transforming lives.
A. 1. What do these quotes from the story mean? Tick (✔) the most appropriate explanations.
a. What they wanted of a dog was strength, formidableness and fight, and hence he was named after the 'Scourge of Europe'.
(i) They wanted a dog that was as ferocious a fighter as the 'Scourge of Europe'.
(ii)They wanted a dog that was as strong and ferocious a fighter as Attila, the Hun, the 'Scourge of Europe'.
Answer: (ii)They wanted a dog that was as strong and ferocious a fighter as Attila, the Hun, the 'Scourge of Europe'.
b. The puppy was only a couple of months old; he had square jaws, red eyes, a pug nose and a massive head, and there was every reason to hope that he would do credit to his name.
(i) The dog's frightening appearance made the family hope that it would be like the person who it was named after.
(ii) The dog was ugly and looked frightening, making the family believe that it would prove to be like Attila the Hun and frighten away or attack thieves.
Answer: (i) The dog's frightening appearance made the family hope that it would be like the person who it was named after.
c. Someone suggested 'Attila' and a shout of joy went up to the skies. No more satisfying name was thought of for man or animal.
(i) The name, Attila, suited the image of the dog they had all wanted to get.
(ii) They wanted their dog to be like Attila, the Hun.
Answer: (i) The name, Attila, suited the image of the dog they had all wanted to get.
d. But as time passed our Attila exhibited a love of humanity which was sometimes disconcerting.
(i) As Attila grew he showed his great love for human beings and this upset the family as they had wanted a guard dog.
(ii) The family was upset that Attila turned out to be a friendly dog that loved humans.
Answer: (i) As Attila grew he showed his great love for human beings and this upset the family as they had wanted a guard dog.
e. He would behave as if he apologised for even giving an impression of violence.
(i) Attila behaved in a friendly manner towards visitors as though he was apologizing for the fact that he looked so frightening.
(ii) Attila behaved in a friendly manner with all visitors and tradespersons.
Answer: (i) Attila behaved in a friendly manner towards visitors as though he was apologizing for the fact that he looked so frightening.
A. 2. Answer the following questions.
a. What made Attila melt? Why?
Answer: When the gate opened, Attila would run towards it. But the visitors had only to stop and smile. Attila would melt. His idea was to welcome the visitors and didn't want to give even an impression of trying to attack them.
b. Why did Attila stop running to meet visitors and why did this upset the family?
Answer: He realized that his running to greet the visitors caused much unhappiness and misunderstanding. The family had got Attila to be attack dog and they thought his attitude was shameful.
c. Why did Ranga think that the end had come when he saw Attila?
Answer: Ranga expected Attila to bark and if he did so, everyone would wake up and he would be caught and handed over to the authorities.
d. Why did Attila eventually put his forepaws into Ranga's lap?
Answer: Attila eventually put his forepaws into Ranga's lap because he wanted to show affection and friendliness, he could not wait for Ranga to jump down to the ground.
e. Why did Attila get excited when he heard the word: cat?
Answer: He didn't want to miss the pleasure of the company of a cat.
f. Give two reasons why Attila went out of the gate when Ranga opened it?
Answer: Attila's greatest ambition in life was to wander in the streets freely and also liked his new friends very much.
g. What did the lady of the house think had happened to Attila and why did she not want to tell anyone about it?
Answer: The lady of the house thought that some burglar had taken him away after theft. Since the purpose to get him was to guard against thieves, this action was a shame and so she didn't want to tell anyone about it.
h. What had the thief stolen from the house?
Answer: The thief had stolen jewellery and other valuables from the house.
A. 3. Think and answer the following questions carefully. HOTS
a. What made the family decide to buy the puppy?
Answer: The family decided to buy the puppy in "Attila" because they saw how much joy and companionship it brought to Attila, the lonely and troubled guest.
b. Why did the family look at the puppy admiringly even though it was not playful or prepossessing?
Answer: The family looked at the puppy admiringly in "Attila" because they recognized its value beyond its physical appearance or playful nature. They saw the puppy's ability to provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support to Attila, which outweighed any superficial qualities. The family's admiration stemmed from their understanding of the puppy's potential to bring joy and healing to someone in need, highlighting their compassion and empathy.
c. Why was the family both sad and happy when they found out what Attila the Hun was like as a child?
Answer: The family in "Attila" experienced both sadness and happiness when they discovered what Attila the Hun was like as a child due to contrasting emotions evoked by the revelation. Initially, they may have felt sadness upon learning about Attila's difficult and troubled past, empathizing with the hardships he endured. It could have stirred feelings of compassion and sympathy for the challenges he faced during his formative years. However, alongside the sadness, they also experienced happiness because understanding Attila's past shed light on the reasons behind his current struggles. This newfound knowledge allowed them to view him with greater empathy and compassion, fostering a deeper connection and a sense of shared humanity. The combination of sadness and happiness reflects the family's emotional complexity and their ability to simultaneously feel sympathy for Attila's hardships while finding hope in the potential for healing and growth.
d. How did Attila prove that the lady of the house's remarks about him were neither uncharitable nor cynical?
Answer: Attila proved that the lady of the house's remarks about him were neither uncharitable nor cynical through his genuine appreciation and transformation. Despite his initial troubled demeanor, Attila displayed gratitude and a willingness to open himself up to the family's kindness. He actively engaged with their efforts to connect and support him, showing a sincere desire for companionship and understanding. Through his actions, Attila demonstrated that the lady of the house's initial observations were not accurate reflections of his character. Instead, he revealed a deeper and more vulnerable side, disproving any negative assumptions about him. By embracing the family's warmth and reciprocating it with his own genuine gratitude, Attila showed that the lady's initial remarks were misconceptions, and he proved himself to be receptive, appreciative, and deserving of their compassion.
e. Who was the defender and why do you think he was defending Attila?
Answer: The defender in the story of "Attila" is a man who spoke up in support of Attila during a conversation at a gathering. It can be inferred that the defender was likely defending Attila based on his personal interactions or observations of Attila's character and circumstances. The defender may have recognized Attila's struggles and empathized with his difficult past. Perhaps the defender witnessed the positive changes in Attila's demeanor and behavior as a result of the family's kindness. The defender might have felt compelled to defend Attila against any negative judgments or misunderstandings, advocating for a fair and compassionate perspective. The defender's support could stem from a belief in redemption, understanding that people can change and deserve a chance at a better life. Overall, the defender's actions suggest a compassionate and empathetic nature, driven by a desire to defend Attila and promote understanding and acceptance.
f. What sort of companionship got on Ranga's nerves?
Answer: In the story "Ranga's Marriage" by Masti Venkatesha Iyengar, the companionship that got on Ranga's nerves was the constant presence and interference of his newly wedded wife. Ranga, a carefree and independent young man, was accustomed to his freedom and solitude. However, after his arranged marriage, his wife, whom he barely knew, began to follow him everywhere and constantly sought his attention. Her constant companionship and need for his presence irritated Ranga, who yearned for his previous life of independence and solitude. He found her constant presence to be suffocating and overwhelming, leading to a sense of irritation and frustration.
g. Which remark was described as being facetious and why?
Answer: Attila, the central character in the story "Attila," is a troubled and lonely guest who enters the lives of a typical family. Initially guarded and mysterious, Attila's troubled past and personal struggles cast a shadow over his demeanor. However, as the story progresses, the family's kindness and acceptance begin to penetrate his defenses. Through their compassion and genuine efforts to connect with him, Attila gradually reveals his vulnerability, longing for companionship, and capacity for gratitude. His transformation highlights the power of empathy and human connection in overcoming barriers and fostering personal growth. Attila serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for healing and redemption, even in the most unexpected circumstances.
WRITING
B. 1. Write a paragraph about how the mother of the family, a typical housewife, reacted towards Attila.
Answer: The mother of the family, a typical housewife, initially reacted with a mix of surprise and caution towards Attila, the unexpected guest. Accustomed to her role as the caretaker of her family and home, she may have felt a sense of apprehension and concern upon encountering someone unfamiliar. However, as Attila's presence persisted, the mother's innate nurturing instincts likely began to surface. Despite any reservations she may have had, she gradually extended her hospitality, ensuring that Attila felt welcome and comfortable within their household.
Displaying her characteristic warmth and empathy, she may have offered a listening ear, shared meals, and engaged in conversations with Attila, creating a safe space for them to connect. Over time, the mother's initial reservations likely transformed into an open-minded acceptance, showcasing her ability to embrace and care for others, regardless of their differences or circumstances.
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