ICSE Class 10 English 2: The Patriot by Robert Browning

6 Questions

What is the main theme of the poem 'The Patriot' by Robert Browning?

The unpredictability of life and the drastic changes in circumstances

Where does the poem 'The Patriot' by Robert Browning take place?

In a town where the soldier was celebrated as a hero

How do the townspeople treat the soldier in 'The Patriot' by Robert Browning when he is condemned to death?

They throw stones at him in anger

What does the soldier believe about God in 'The Patriot' by Robert Browning?

God will provide justice where humans have failed

How does 'The Patriot' by Robert Browning portray the soldier's view on judgment?

He accepts unjust judgment from his countrymen

What is the significance of the contrast between the soldier's past and present in 'The Patriot' by Robert Browning?

To highlight the soldier's changing fortunes and societal perception

Study Notes

The text discusses the poem "The Patriot" by Robert Browning, part of the ICSE Class 10 English 2 syllabus.
The poem is a dramatic monologue about a soldier who was once celebrated as a hero but is now condemned to death.
It highlights the sharp contrast between the soldier's past glory and his current villainous status.
The setting of the poem is the soldier walking to his public hanging, reflecting on his past and present.
The poem conveys the message that life is uncertain and circumstances can change drastically in a short period.
The soldier reminisces about the grand welcome he received a year ago with roses and cheers from the townspeople.
The text describes how the soldier is now deserted by the same people, with only a few elderly individuals watching silently.
The soldier is taken to the shambles gate for public execution, where people gather eagerly to witness his hanging.
He reflects on his misdeeds that have led to his current fate, with stones being thrown at him as a form of punishment.
The poem ends with the soldier accepting his fate, believing that God will provide justice where humans have failed.- The poem "The Patriot" by Robert Browning portrays a man who accepts unjust judgment from his countrymen and chooses death to reach God, whom he considers more just and safer.
The poem highlights the theme of being condemned by the same people who once celebrated national heroes, reflecting the tragedy of judgment without full knowledge of facts.
By referring to God as a safer place, the Patriot indirectly accuses his countrymen of being unjust, showcasing his disillusionment with his own land.
The explanation provided aims to help readers understand the poem's gist and theme, preparing them for potential examination questions that may focus on context and analysis.
The importance of understanding key words and being able to explain the poem cohesively is emphasized, as exam questions often require detailed explanations of events before and after certain stanzas.