UGC NET/JRF (NTA) Solved Paper (Paper 2: English Literature) – 6th December 2023 – Set 1 (Que. 1 to 10)

Q.1) Sharankumar Limbale argues that Dalit literature is unique because:

(A) This brings out the Dalit reality which is liminal in time and space.
(B) This has unique historical and ideological concerns.
(C) This offers literary and cultural representations of marginalised and dispossessed people.
(D) This brings out narratives and discourses of pity.
(E) It uses disrespectful and offensive language towards revered figures.

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

(1) (A), (B) and (C) Only
(2) (B), (C) and (D) Only
(3) (A), (B) and (D) Only
(4) (A), (C) and (E) Only

Answer: The most appropriate answer is – (1) (A), (B), and (C) Only

Here’s why:

(A) This brings out the Dalit reality which is liminal in time and space. 

Sharankumar Limbale argues that Dalits occupy a marginalized position in society, both geographically and temporally. They exist outside the mainstream norms and narratives, making their experiences unique and crucial to understand.

(B) This has unique historical and ideological concerns. 

Dalit literature addresses the specific historical experiences of oppression and exclusion faced by Dalits. It challenges dominant ideologies and seeks to create a new awareness of Dalit identity and perspectives.

(C) This offers literary and cultural representations of marginalized and dispossessed people. 

Dalit literature gives voice to the silenced and marginalized, providing representations of their lives, struggles, and aspirations. It contributes to a more inclusive and diverse cultural landscape.

(D) This brings out narratives and discourses of pity. 

While portraying hardship, Dalit literature often goes beyond mere pity or victimhood. It can be empowering and critical, seeking social change and justice.

(E) It uses disrespectful and offensive language towards revered figures. 

While some Dalit literature may challenge established norms and symbols, disrespectfulness is not a defining characteristic. The focus is more on authentic representation and challenging oppressive structures.

Therefore, options (A), (B), and (C) accurately reflect Sharankumar Limbale's arguments about the uniqueness of Dalit literature.

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Q.2) Edgar Allan Poe is often called as the originator of the short story as an established genre. He defined ‘the prose tale’ as:
(1) A narrative which can be read at one sitting of from half an hour to two hours.
(2) A narrative which can be read within five minutes or less.
(3) A narrative that can be read at one sitting of from one hour to four hours.
(4) A narrative that may be concluded and enjoyed in the single spell of less than half an hour.

Answer: (1) A narrative which can be read at one sitting of from half an hour to two hours.

Explanation: In M. H. Abrams’ “A Glossary of Literary Terms” (1970, p. 158), Poe’s definition of the “prose tale” is indeed stated as “a narrative that can be read at one sitting of from one-half hour to two hours.” Since it is short, and aims at giving a ‘single effect’, there is usually one plot, a few characters; there is no detailed description of setting.

However, it's crucial to avoid misinterpreting this definition too strictly. While Poe advocated for unity of effect and impression in a short story, his focus was never solely on the reading duration. 

He emphasized the importance of tailoring the length to the desired impact, recognizing that some stories might need more or less time than the mentioned range.

What is 'unity of effect and impression' in a short story?

Unity of effect and impression is a key concept in Edgar Allan Poe's theory of the short story. It refers to the idea that all elements of a short story - plot, character, setting, language, etc. - should work together to create a single, powerful emotional impact on the reader.

By understanding and applying the principles of unity of effect and impression, writers can craft short stories that resonate deeply with readers and leave a lasting impact.

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Q.3) “An Introduction” by Kamla Das is:
(1) A short story on the theme of people’s rights and freedom
(2) An introduction to her autobiography My Story
(3) An essay on the theme of gender rights
(4) A poem of resistance and protest

Answer: (4) A poem of resistance and protest

Explanation:

Out of the options provided, (4) A poem of resistance and protest is the most accurate description of "An Introduction" by Kamla Das.

Here's why: 

Genre: "An Introduction" is indeed a poem, not a short story, essay, or introduction to an autobiography. 

Theme: While people's rights and freedom are important aspects of the poem, it goes beyond just a general statement. It uses powerful imagery and language to express resistance against various societal constraints, particularly those faced by women. 

Style: The poem uses strong emotions, bold statements, and even provocative language to challenge established norms and expectations. This lends itself more to a description of resistance and protest than the other options.

It's important to note that "An Introduction" can be interpreted in multiple ways, with themes encompassing gender, identity, and societal pressures. However, its core essence aligns most closely with resistance and protest due to its defiant tone and challenging nature.

About Kamala Das:

Das began writing poetry at a young age and published her first collection of poems, "Summer in Calcutta," in 1965. She went on to publish over 20 collections of poetry, as well as novels, short stories, essays, and an autobiography. Her work is known for its honesty and its exploration of themes such as love, sexuality, and the female experience. Das was awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1985 for her poetry collection "My Story." She was also the recipient of the Padma Shri (1988) and the Padma Bhushan (2006).

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Q.4) Which of the following statements/concepts are relevant for understanding of Postmodernism?

(A) Postmodernism and Postcolonialism are mutually dependent in responding to colonial experience.
(B) Lyotard argues that the Postmodern condition is characterised by a deeply felt scepticism towards metanarratives.
(C) Edward W. Said has been instrumental in postmodern theory and criticism.
(D) Jean Baudrillard’s Simulacra and Simulations is a seminal postmodern text.
(E) Fredric Jameson argues that parody has been replaced by pastiche in postmodernism.

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

(1) (B), (D) and (E) Only
(2) (A), (B) and (D) Only
(3) (B), (C) and (E) Only
(4) (C), (D) and (E) Only

Answer: (1) (B), (D) and (E) Only

Explanation:

(B) Lyotard argues that the Postmodern condition is characterized by a deeply felt scepticism towards metanarratives. This is a core concept of postmodernism, emphasizing the disbelief in the grand narratives or metanarratives that were characteristic of modernism, such as the belief in progress, enlightenment, and absolute truths.

(D) Jean Baudrillard’s Simulacra and Simulations is a seminal postmodern text. Baudrillard's work is foundational to postmodern theory, particularly his exploration of how simulations of reality (simulacra) have replaced direct experience and reality in contemporary society.

(E) Fredric Jameson argues that parody has been replaced by pastiche in postmodernism. Jameson's analysis of postmodern culture highlights the shift from parody, which implies a critical imitation of styles, to pastiche, a mimicry of styles without the satirical intent, reflecting the loss of depth and originality in postmodern culture.

While (A) Postmodernism and Postcolonialism are mutually dependent in responding to colonial experience makes an interesting point about the relationship between the two fields, it is not as directly relevant to the foundational understanding of postmodernism itself. (C) Edward W. Said has been instrumental in postmodern theory and criticism is misleading; Said is more commonly associated with postcolonial studies, particularly through his work "Orientalism," rather than postmodern theory.

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Q.5) “All writers since Chaucer have come from the middle class… have had good, at least expensive education….”

Where has Virginia Woolf explained it?

Answer: (3) The Leaning Tower

Explanation: Virginia Woolf discusses the social and educational background of writers since Chaucer in (3) The Leaning Tower. In this essay, Woolf addresses the impact of class and education on literature, arguing that these factors have historically influenced who gets to write and what is written about. “The Leaning Tower” is one of Woolf’s important non-fiction works, where she delves into issues of class, culture, and the role of the writer in society.

Virginia Woolf (1882–1941) was a prominent English writer, a central figure of the modernist literary movement in the early 20th century. She is considered a pioneer in the use of stream of consciousness as a narrative device.

Her work is celebrated for its innovative narrative techniques, depth of psychological insight, and exploration of the human condition. Woolf's contributions to literature and feminist thought have left a lasting impact on both fields. Here are some of her major works and achievements:

Major Works:

Mrs. Dalloway (1925): A novel that uses stream-of-consciousness techniques to follow the thoughts and experiences of Clarissa Dalloway and other characters through a single day in London. It explores themes of mental illness, existential reflections, and the complexity of social structures.

To the Lighthouse (1927): Considered one of her masterpieces, this novel focuses on the Ramsay family's visits to the Isle of Skye in Scotland between 1910 and 1920. It is a profound exploration of the nature of perception, the passage of time, and the existential search for meaning.

Orlando: A Biography (1928): A fantastical biography of an immortal poet who changes sex from man to woman and lives through several centuries without aging much. It explores themes of gender, sexuality, and the fluidity of identity.

A Room of One’s Own (1929): A landmark essay that argues for both a literal and figurative space for women writers within a literary tradition dominated by men. It is a foundational text in feminist literary criticism.

The Waves (1931): An experimental novel that depicts the lives of six friends from childhood through old age using soliloquies spoken by the characters. It is known for its poetic prose and exploration of individual consciousness.

The Years (1937): A novel that traces the history of the Pargiter family from the 1880s to the "present day" of the mid-1930s. It addresses social issues and the passage of time, employing a more traditional narrative approach than some of her other works.

Achievements:

Innovative Narrative Techniques: Woolf's use of stream-of-consciousness, interior monologues, and shifting perspectives broke new ground in narrative form, influencing generations of writers.

Exploration of Psychological Depth: Her works delve deeply into the minds of her characters, exploring complex emotional landscapes and the intricacies of human psychology.

Contribution to Feminist Literature: "A Room of One’s Own" and "Three Guineas" (1938) are seminal texts in feminist literary criticism, advocating for women's intellectual and financial independence.

Literary Criticism: Besides her fiction, Woolf was also an astute literary critic. Her essays and reviews contribute significantly to modern literary criticism.

The Bloomsbury Group: Woolf was a key figure in the Bloomsbury Group, an influential group of English writers, intellectuals, philosophers, and artists.

Virginia Woolf's legacy extends beyond her written work; she has become an icon of feminism and modernism, her life and writings continuing to inspire and provoke debate on issues of gender, mental health, and the role of the artist in society.

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Q.6) What is the correct order of publication of the novels of Charles Dickens?

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Answer: (2) (C), (D), (B), (E), (A)

Explanation: To find the correct order of publication for Charles Dickens’ novels, we need to list them by their original publication years:

Here are important details about him and the novels mentioned:

Charles Dickens (1812–1870) was a towering figure in English literature, celebrated for his vivid storytelling, memorable characters, and keen social commentary. Dickens' novels highlighted the injustices and hardships of life in 19th-century Britain, making a profound impact on social consciousness. 

‣ Oliver Twist (1837–1839)

Plot: The story of an orphan, Oliver Twist, navigating a world filled with criminals and paupers in London. It's famous for its depiction of the underbelly of London society.

Significance: One of Dickens' early works, notable for its social commentary on child labor, the poor laws, and the criminal underworld. The character of Fagin and the Artful Dodger became iconic.

‣ David Copperfield (1849–1850)

Plot: A semi-autobiographical novel that follows the life of David Copperfield from childhood to adulthood, exploring themes of poverty, ambition, and the quest for personal identity.

Significance: Often considered Dickens' masterpiece, it showcases his skill in character development and his critique of Victorian society's treatment of women and the working class.

‣ Hard Times (1854)

Plot: Set in the fictional industrial town of Coketown, it focuses on the lives of several characters amidst industrial and social unrest. It critiques utilitarianism and the dehumanization in industrial society.

Significance: One of Dickens' shorter novels, "Hard Times" is praised for its concise critique of the industrial age's impact on human values and the importance of imagination and compassion.

‣ A Tale of Two Cities (1859)

Plot: A historical novel set before and during the French Revolution, it tells the story of characters caught in the turmoil of the times, including the famous Sydney Carton and Charles Darnay.

Significance: Known for the opening line, "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times..." it's one of the best-selling novels of all time, celebrated for its exploration of themes of resurrection, transformation, and sacrifice.

‣ Great Expectations (1860–1861)

Plot: The coming-of-age story of an orphan named Pip, whose life is transformed by a mysterious benefactor. It explores themes of social class, justice, and the true nature of gentility.

Significance: Regarded as one of Dickens' greatest works, it is notable for its deep psychological insight, complex moral themes, and the critique of Victorian society's structure.


Achievements of Charles Dickens:

Social Reform: Dickens' works contributed to social reform by bringing attention to the plight of the poor and the injustices of Victorian society.

Literary Innovations: His novels are celebrated for their narrative techniques, including the use of serial publication, which kept readers engaged and allowed Dickens to adjust stories based on audience reactions.

Lasting Impact: Dickens' characters and stories have become part of the cultural fabric, influencing countless adaptations in film, television, and theatre. His critique of social inequalities remains relevant, and his storytelling techniques continue to inspire writers.

Dickens' legacy is not just as a novelist but as a powerful voice for the marginalized, using his literary genius to advocate for change and empathy in society.

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Q.7) Which among the following writers are popular for partition narratives?

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Answer: (3) (A), (C) and (E) Only

Explanation: The writers popular for partition narratives among the given options are:

Shashi Deshpande and Bharti Mukherjee, while significant figures in Indian literature, are not primarily known for partition narratives in the same way as the others listed. Deshpande’s work largely focuses on the interior lives of Indian women, and Mukherjee’s narratives often explore the immigrant experience in America.

Major Works of the Authors Known for Partition Narratives:


Krishna Sobti 

Major Works: While Krishna Sobti is not solely known for partition narratives, her literary oeuvre includes significant exploration of the impact of partition through a nuanced depiction of human relationships and social fabric. 

Some of her notable works include:

• "Mitro Marjani" (To Hell with You Mitro): An exploration of female sexuality and autonomy.
• "Zindaginama": Chronicles life in a Punjabi village before the partition, capturing the cultural ethos of rural India.


Saros Cowasjee 

Major Works: Saros Cowasjee is an author and editor who has written and compiled stories focusing on the Partition of India. 

His notable works include:

• "Goodbye to Elsa": A collection of short stories that include themes of partition and its impact on human lives.
• Editor of "Stories of the Partition of India": A compilation of stories by various authors that reflect on the human dimensions of the partition.


Rahi Masoom Raza 

Major Works: Rahi Masoom Raza is best known for his novel that directly deals with the theme of Partition and communal harmony.

• "आधा गाँव" (Adha Gaon - 'Half Village'): This novel is a seminal work in Hindi literature, portraying the life in a village divided by the Partition. It is celebrated for its portrayal of the social and cultural life of Indian Muslims and the impact of national division on communal relationships.


Additional Information:

While Shashi Deshpande and Bharti Mukherjee are not primarily recognized for their partition narratives, they have made significant contributions to Indian and diasporic literature:

Shashi Deshpande

Major Works: Her literature often explores the lives and struggles of Indian women.

• "That Long Silence": Focuses on the challenges faced by an Indian woman in a patriarchal society.
• "The Dark Holds No Terrors": A story about a woman coming to terms with her past and identity.

Bharti Mukherjee

Major Works: Her work frequently delves into the immigrant experience, identity, and cultural conflicts.

• "Jasmine": The story of a young Indian woman who immigrates to the United States and her journey of self-discovery and adaptation.
• "The Middleman and Other Stories": A collection of short stories exploring the themes of immigration, cultural displacement, and identity through various characters’ perspectives.

Each of these authors, through their distinctive literary contributions, offers profound insights into human experiences, whether related to partition, gender dynamics, or the immigrant experience, thereby enriching the landscape of Indian and diasporic literature.

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Q.8) Arrange the chronological sequence in which the following works were published:

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Answer: **

Explanation: We can place these works in chronological order of their publication:

With this correction, the correct chronological sequence of publication for the works listed is: (B) Culture and Anarchy, (D) Studies in a Dying Culture, (C) To Hell with Culture, (E) Notes towards the Definition of Culture, (A) Culture and Society.

Therefore, none of the original answer options provided (1) through (4) match this corrected sequence, indicating a potential oversight in the creation of the question or answer choices.

Culture and Anarchy by Matthew Arnold was published in 1869. It is one of the earliest works among those listed, critically examining Victorian society and advocating for culture as a means to combat anarchy and social unrest.

Studies in Dying Culture by Christopher Caudwell (born Christopher St. John Sprigg, was a notable Marxist theorist and writer) was published posthumously in 1938. This collection of essays critiques various cultural figures and movements through a Marxist lens. It includes analyses of George Bernard Shaw, T.E. Lawrence, D.H. Lawrence, H.G. Wells, and Sigmund Freud, and discussions on themes such as pacifism, violence, love, and liberty.

Culture and Society by Raymond Williams was published in 1958. This work explores the development of the idea of culture in English literature and criticism from the late 18th century to the mid-20th century.

To Hell with Culture by Herbert Read was published in 1941. This collection of essays criticizes the commercialization of art and advocates for a society where culture is integral to everyday life.

Notes towards the Definition of Culture by T.S. Eliot was published in 1948. Eliot's work discusses the cultural and spiritual health of a society, offering a conservative view on the development of culture.

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Q.9) Match List – I with List – II.

List – I (Character)	List – II (Novel)
(A) Sethe (B) Okonkwo (C) Offred (D) Winston Smith	(I) The Handmaid’s Tale (II) Beloved (III) Things Fall Apart (IV) Nineteen Eighty-Four

Answer: (1) (A)-(II), (B)-(III), (C)-(I), (D)-(IV)

The correct match between the characters and the novels they belong to is as follows:

Important Details About the Writings:

Beloved by Toni Morrison

Publication Year: 1987

Overview: "Beloved" is a deeply powerful novel about the trauma of slavery. It tells the story of Sethe, an escaped slave who is haunted by the ghost of her dead baby, whom she killed to save from a life of slavery. The novel explores themes of memory, trauma, and the unbreakable bond of motherhood.

Significance: This work is celebrated for its vivid portrayal of the African American experience, its lyrical prose, and its exploration of the psychological scars left by slavery. "Beloved" won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1988 and is considered a masterpiece of American literature.


Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

Publication Year: 1958

Overview: Set in pre-colonial Nigeria, "Things Fall Apart" follows the life of Okonkwo, a respected leader and warrior in the Igbo village of Umuofia. The novel chronicles the clash between traditional Igbo society and the forces of British colonialism and Christian missionaries.

Significance: Achebe's novel is a landmark in African literature and is widely regarded for its critical examination of colonialism's impact on African societies. It challenges Western narratives about Africa, providing a nuanced and compelling portrayal of Igbo culture and the complexities of identity, change, and resistance.


The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Publication Year: 1985

Overview: This dystopian novel is set in the totalitarian state of Gilead, where fertile women, known as Handmaids, are forced into child-bearing servitude. The story is told from the perspective of Offred, a Handmaid who navigates the perils of this oppressive society while clinging to memories of her pre-Gilead life.

Significance: "The Handmaid’s Tale" is acclaimed for its exploration of themes related to gender, power, and resistance. It has sparked widespread discussion about women's rights and autonomy, becoming a symbol of feminist resistance. The novel has also been adapted into a successful television series.


Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell

Publication Year: 1949

Overview: Set in a dystopian future where the world is ruled by three totalitarian superstates, the novel follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party in Oceania. The Party, led by Big Brother, exercises absolute power and manipulates truth and history to maintain control over society.

Significance: Orwell's novel is a seminal work of dystopian fiction, exploring themes of surveillance, government control, and individual freedom. Its concepts, such as Big Brother, doublethink, and thoughtcrime, have become embedded in cultural discourse, serving as powerful warnings about the dangers of totalitarianism and the erosion of civil liberties.


Each of these novels has made a significant impact on literature and continues to be studied and revered for their exploration of complex themes, character development, and innovative narrative techniques.

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Q.10) Which among the following statements are true?

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

Answer: (4) (B) and (D) Only

Explanation: Among the provided statements, the true ones are as follows:

(B) Creole is a language that has evolved from a pidgin but serves as the native language of a speech community. This statement is true. A Creole language is indeed a stable natural language that has developed from a pidgin language and has become nativized, serving as the mother tongue for a community.

(D) Mulatto is a person of mixed white and black ancestry. This statement is true. The term “mulatto” historically referred to individuals with one white parent and one black parent, though it’s considered outdated and potentially offensive today.

And the false ones are as follows:

(A) Miscegenation is a sexual relationship or marriage between the people of the same race. This statement is false. Miscegenation actually refers to the interbreeding of people considered to be of different racial types.

(C) Indian tribal people are popularly termed as aboriginals. This statement can be misleading. In India, tribal people are more commonly referred to as “Adivasis,” which means “original inhabitants.” The term “aboriginals” is more frequently used in the context of indigenous peoples in Australia.

(E) Australian indigenous population is termed as Red Indians. This statement is false. “Red Indians” is an outdated term that was used to refer to the Native American peoples. The indigenous population of Australia is referred to as Aboriginal Australians or Torres Strait Islanders.