10 Questions
What is the main focus of the short story 'The Portrait of a Lady'?
The changing relationship between the narrator and his grandmother
How does the narrator initially perceive his grandmother?
As an old woman with no youthful past
What does the grandmother continue to do despite losing touch with her grown-up grandson?
Maintains her daily ritual of praying and feeding animals
What does the narrator emphasize about his grandmother's character throughout the story?
Her serene and peaceful nature
What is the underlying theme that is prominently depicted in 'The Portrait of a Lady'?
The passage of time and its impact on relationships
How does the narrator's perception of his grandmother change over the years?
The narrator's perception of his grandmother changes from seeing her as an old woman to acknowledging the possibility of a young and lively past.
What daily rituals does the grandmother maintain despite losing touch with her grown-up grandson?
The grandmother maintains her daily ritual of praying and feeding animals and other living creatures like dogs and sparrows.
What is the underlying theme of 'The Portrait of a Lady'?
The underlying theme of 'The Portrait of a Lady' is the passage of time and changing perceptions within family relationships.
How does Khushwant Singh present the character of the grandmother throughout the story?
Khushwant Singh presents the serene character of the grandmother, emphasizing her dedication to daily rituals and her connection with living creatures.
What learning materials and notes can be accessed for Class 11 CBSE English, as mentioned in the summary?
The summary mentions that learning materials and notes for Class 11 CBSE English can be accessed through BYJU’S CBSE Summary and CBSE Notes.
Study Notes
'The Portrait of a Lady' Summary
The Grandmother's Character
- The narrator initially perceives his grandmother as a traditional, religious, and superstitious figure.
- Despite losing touch with her grown-up grandson, the grandmother continues to perform her daily rituals, such as reading holy scriptures, telling beads, and performing daily prayers.
The Grandmother's Character Throughout the Story
- The narrator emphasizes the grandmother's strong sense of loyalty, devotion, and tradition throughout the story.
The Underlying Theme
- The underlying theme of 'The Portrait of a Lady' is the generational gap and the loss of traditional values in modern times.
The Narrator's Perception of the Grandmother
- The narrator's perception of his grandmother changes over the years, from a mere presence in his childhood to a deeper understanding of her character and values.
Daily Rituals
- The grandmother maintains her daily rituals, such as reading holy scriptures, telling beads, and performing daily prayers, despite losing touch with her grown-up grandson.
Character Presentation
- Khushwant Singh presents the character of the grandmother as a symbol of traditional values, simplicity, and loyalty.
Learning Materials
- For Class 11 CBSE English, learning materials and notes can be accessed for 'The Portrait of a Lady', including study guides, summaries, and analysis.
Test your understanding of "The Portrait of a Lady" by Khushwant Singh with this summary quiz. See how well you remember the details of the relationship between the narrator and his grandmother as you answer questions about this classic short story.
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