The Light of Asia Book 2 Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What material is mentioned as being used to string the bow initially taken by the protagonist?

Lacquered wood

Leather

Silver wire (correct)

Silk

Which bow is described as being ancient and powerful, kept in the temple?

Sinhahânu's bow (correct)

The bow of the Sâkya lords

The bow of lacquered cane

The bow of the bison

What was the reaction of the people at home when the sound of the bow was heard?

They feared it was a warning.

They inquired about the sound. (correct)

They ignored it completely.

They rejoiced and celebrated.

What does Siddârtha do after bending Sinhahânu's bow?

He fits an arrow and shoots it. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Siddârtha's character is hinted at by his actions with the bow?

His physical strength and prowess. Signup and view all the answers

What does the King suggest about love in his response?

Love often occurs through a different perspective. Signup and view all the answers

What idea is presented about the festival for maidens?

It aims to distract the Prince from his sadness. Signup and view all the answers

What preparations do the maidens make before attending the festival?

They adorn themselves with colors and scents. Signup and view all the answers

What is the atmosphere noted when the maidens pass by the throne?

They experience awe and nervousness. Signup and view all the answers

How do the maidens physically prepare for the event?

By using perfumes and bathing beforehand. Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested about the Prince's character during the festival?

He remains emotionally detached. Signup and view all the answers

What role do the maidens intend for the Prince to play in the festival?

To choose a wife from among them. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'barasingh' refer to in this context?

A deer often admired for its beauty. Signup and view all the answers

What was the thickness of the Talas-tree that Devadatta clove?

Six fingers Signup and view all the answers

Which character's blade was able to shred through both trees at one stroke?

Siddârtha Signup and view all the answers

What kind of horse was Kantaka described as?

Noble and high-mettled Signup and view all the answers

What did Ardjuna do to control the fierce stallion?

Lashed the black flank and held the jaws fast Signup and view all the answers

What happened to the trees after Siddârtha's blade struck them?

They fell cleanly to the ground Signup and view all the answers

How many times did the young Sâkya attempt to mount the stallion before Ardjuna succeeded?

Three times Signup and view all the answers

What was the response of the grooms when Ardjuna subdued the stallion?

They ran in and fettered the maddened beast Signup and view all the answers

How was the stallion described before Ardjuna attempted to ride him?

Fierce-eyed and dark as night Signup and view all the answers

What role did the chosen band serve in the context provided?

They entertained and comforted the Prince Signup and view all the answers

Why were discussions of harsh realities like death or pain prohibited within the King's walls?

To maintain the Prince's ignorance of suffering Signup and view all the answers

What sensory elements contributed to the Prince's blissful state?

Music, charming songs, and fragrant spices Signup and view all the answers

What happened to those who mentioned the outside world's harsh realities in the court?

They were exiled from the Paradise of the court Signup and view all the answers

What describes the atmosphere created within the King's court?

A serene and joyful realm devoid of distress Signup and view all the answers

What did Siddârtha do to calm the fierce stallion?

He laid his palm across the stallion's eyes. Signup and view all the answers

How did the crowd react to Siddârtha's mastery over the horse?

They were astonished and accepted him as the best. Signup and view all the answers

What did Suprabuddha, the father of the maid, express about Siddârtha?

He sensed a magical quality in Siddârtha's abilities. Signup and view all the answers

What gesture did the Indian girl make towards Siddârtha?

She bowed and presented a crown of môgra-flowers. Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about Siddârtha's character based on his interaction with the horse?

He possesses a calming and gentle nature. Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the veil of black and gold that the girl drew across her brow?

It symbolized her commitment to Siddârtha. Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial reaction of the crowd towards Siddârtha before his demonstration with the horse?

They were skeptical of his abilities. Signup and view all the answers

What does Siddârtha’s ability to tame the horse suggest about his skills?

It shows he has an understanding of both nature and beings. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Light of Asia - Book 2 Overview

The text explores themes of love, beauty, and the pursuit of happiness within a royal context.
The narrative presents a discussion among the King and his advisors about finding suitable companions for Siddârtha.

The King's Command

The King suggests that love has its own criteria and cannot be dictated by external appearances.
Advisors propose a festival to attract eligible maidens, where Siddârtha would judge beauty and grace.

The Festival Setup

Young women from Kapilavastu gather for the festival, adorned and prepared to impress.
The description emphasizes their beauty, including fresh grooming traditions and vibrant clothing.

Siddârtha's Strength and Skill

Siddârtha demonstrates unmatched prowess with the bow, stringing an ancient, formidable weapon known as Sinhahânu's bow.
His remarkable strength and skill highlight his noble lineage, setting him apart from his peers.

Competitive Spirit

The narrative depicts various challenges where Siddârtha excels, including archery and horseback riding, distinguishing himself in physical contests.
His ability to tame the fierce stallion showcases his exceptional character and command over nature.

Recognition of Siddârtha

Following his victories, Siddârtha is universally acknowledged as the best among the suitors.
Tension arises as he receives accolades and admiration from both the spectators and the eligible maidens.

Union with Yasôdhara

A significant moment occurs when Siddârtha is crowned by a maiden who expresses her devotion, symbolizing a union of love.
Their connection is portrayed as pure and joyful, emphasizing the bliss of youthful love.

Life in the Palace

Siddârtha is surrounded by luxuries, including nautch girls and fragrant blossoms, fostering a life of pleasure and bliss.
The environment is crafted to ensure happiness, with a careful avoidance of themes like death and suffering.

Isolation from Suffering

The King enforces a strict decree to shield Siddârtha from knowledge of pain, aging, and death, reinforcing the theme of ignorance as bliss.
Individuals showing signs of sorrow are exiled from the court, maintaining an illusion of eternal joy and beauty.

Key Themes and Motifs

The pursuit of love through beauty and competition reveals societal values.
The contrast between joy and suffering is highlighted, foreshadowing Siddârtha’s future quest for deeper truths.
The role of fate and destiny is implied through the various challenges and circumstances Siddârtha faces in the narrative.

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Description

Test your understanding of Book 2 of 'The Light of Asia' by Edwin Arnold. This quiz covers themes, characters, and significant passages that reflect the philosophical insights of the text. Dive into the poetic elements and explore the deeper meanings behind the verses.