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A Tiger in the Zoo – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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A Tiger in the Zoo

Study Materials

10th

10th - English (First Flight)

A Tiger in the Zoo

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter "A Tiger in the Zoo" from the CBSE Grade 10 English textbook (First Flight) is a poem by Leslie Norris. It contrasts the life of a tiger in the wild with its existence in captivity, highlighting themes of freedom, confinement, and the loss of natural instincts.

Key Theme: The poem explores the conflict between nature and captivity, emphasizing the tiger's suppressed instincts and the artificiality of zoo life.

Summary of the Poem

The poem begins by describing a tiger pacing in its cage, its movements reflecting frustration and helplessness. The poet imagines how the tiger would behave in its natural habitat—lurking in shadows near a water hole, terrorizing villages, or resting under a tree. However, in the zoo, it is reduced to a mere spectacle, ignored by visitors.

Symbolism: The tiger symbolizes the wild spirit of nature, while the cage represents human dominance and the suppression of freedom.

Literary Devices Used

  • Metaphor: The tiger's stripes are described as "vivid," symbolizing its fading vitality in captivity.
  • Contrast: The poet contrasts the tiger's natural behavior in the wild with its passive existence in the zoo.
  • Imagery: Vivid descriptions of the jungle and the tiger's movements create a stark contrast with the dull zoo environment.

Important Questions and Answers

Q1: How does the poet describe the tiger in the cage?

Ans: The poet describes the tiger as pacing quietly in its cage, its strength and majesty confined, with its brilliant stripes appearing dull in the artificial light.

Q2: What does the poet suggest about the tiger's natural habitat?

Ans: The poet suggests that the tiger belongs in the wild, where it can roam freely, hunt near water holes, and assert its dominance, unlike its restricted life in the zoo.

Moral of the Poem

The poem conveys a strong message about the cruelty of keeping wild animals in captivity. It urges readers to reflect on the ethical implications of zoos and the importance of preserving wildlife in its natural habitat.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
What is the theme of A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:

Freedom vs. captivity.

Question 2:
Where does the tiger live in the poem?
Answer:

In a zoo cage.

Question 3:
What does the tiger do at night?
Answer:

Stares at stars.

Question 4:
Name the poet of A Tiger in the Zoo.
Answer:

Leslie Norris.

Question 5:
What is the tiger’s natural habitat?
Answer:

Dense forest.

Question 6:
How does the tiger react to visitors?
Answer:

Ignores them.

Question 7:
What does the tiger hear in the jungle?
Answer:

Deer’s footsteps.

Question 8:
What emotion does the tiger show in the cage?
Answer:

Anger.

Question 9:
What does the tiger’s ‘quiet rage’ signify?
Answer:

Suppressed frustration.

Question 10:
What is the tiger’s attitude towards humans?
Answer:

Indifferent.

Question 11:
What does the tiger do near the water hole?
Answer:

Waits for prey.

Question 12:
What literary device is used in ‘quiet rage’?
Answer:

Oxymoron.

Question 13:
What does the tiger stare at in the poem A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:

The tiger stares at the stars in the night sky, longing for freedom.

Question 14:
Where is the tiger locked in the poem?
Answer:

The tiger is locked in a concrete cell inside a zoo, away from its natural habitat.

Question 15:
What sound does the tiger make in the poem?
Answer:

The tiger makes a quiet, angry growl, showing its frustration and helplessness.

Question 16:
How does the poet describe the tiger's pads in the wild?
Answer:

The poet describes the tiger's pads as velvet quiet, emphasizing its stealthy movement in the jungle.

Question 17:
What does the tiger do near the water hole in the jungle?
Answer:

The tiger lurks near the water hole, waiting to ambush its prey.

Question 18:
Why does the tiger ignore visitors in the zoo?
Answer:

The tiger ignores visitors because it is apathetic and resigned to its captivity.

Question 19:
What emotion does the tiger's snarl reflect in the poem?
Answer:

The tiger's snarl reflects its suppressed rage and helplessness in captivity.

Question 20:
What is the central theme of A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:

The central theme is the contrast between a tiger's life in the wild and its miserable existence in captivity.

Question 21:
How does the poet describe the tiger's stripes in the poem?
Answer:

The poet describes the tiger's stripes as vivid, highlighting its majestic appearance.

Question 22:
What does the tiger's sliding through long grass signify?
Answer:

It signifies the tiger's natural hunting behavior and freedom in the wild.

Question 23:
Why is the tiger's strength described as 'behind bars'?
Answer:

Because its power is useless in captivity, trapped behind the bars of its cage.

Question 24:
What literary device is used in the line 'He stalks in his vivid stripes'?
Answer:

The poet uses imagery to create a visual picture of the tiger's majestic appearance.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
What is the central theme of the poem A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem A Tiger in the Zoo is the contrast between the freedom of a tiger in its natural habitat and its confinement in a zoo. The poet highlights the helplessness and frustration of the tiger, emphasizing how captivity strips away its natural instincts and dignity.

Question 2:
How does the poet describe the tiger in its natural habitat?
Answer:

The poet describes the tiger in its natural habitat as a majestic and powerful creature. It moves silently through the long grass near a water hole, stalking its prey. The imagery portrays the tiger as a symbol of wilderness and freedom.

Question 3:
What does the phrase 'quiet rage' signify in the poem?
Answer:

The phrase quiet rage signifies the tiger's suppressed anger and frustration due to its captivity. Though it appears calm, its pent-up emotions reflect its longing for freedom and its natural instincts.

Question 4:
Why does the tiger ignore the visitors in the zoo?
Answer:

The tiger ignores the visitors because it is disinterested and resentful of its captivity. It has lost its natural ferocity and pride, becoming a mere spectacle for humans, which deepens its sense of alienation.

Question 5:
What is the significance of the 'concrete cell' in the poem?
Answer:

The concrete cell symbolizes the artificial and restrictive environment of the zoo, which is a stark contrast to the tiger's natural habitat. It represents the loss of freedom and the unnatural conditions imposed on wild animals.

Question 6:
How does the poet create a contrast between the tiger in the zoo and the tiger in the wild?
Answer:

The poet creates a contrast by juxtaposing the tiger's lively and powerful movements in the wild with its stifled and apathetic behavior in the zoo. The wild tiger is free to roam and hunt, while the caged tiger is reduced to pacing its cell.

Question 7:
What emotions does the tiger evoke in the poet?
Answer:

The tiger evokes feelings of sympathy and sadness in the poet. The poet pities the tiger's loss of freedom and highlights the injustice of keeping such a majestic creature confined for human entertainment.

Question 8:
Why does the poet mention the tiger's 'brilliant stripes'?
Answer:

The poet mentions the tiger's brilliant stripes to emphasize its natural beauty and strength, which are wasted in captivity. The stripes, a symbol of its wild identity, stand out against the dullness of the zoo.

Question 9:
What message does the poet convey through the poem?
Answer:

The poet conveys a message about the ethical treatment of animals and the harm caused by confining them. The poem urges readers to reflect on the importance of freedom and the need to preserve wildlife in their natural habitats.

Question 10:
How does the tiger's behavior change at night in the zoo?
Answer:

At night, the tiger's behavior becomes more restless and agitated. It hears the last voice of the patrolling cars, which reminds it of its lost freedom. The night amplifies its loneliness and frustration.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
How does the poet contrast the life of the tiger in the zoo with its life in the wild?
Answer:

The poet contrasts the captive life of the tiger in the zoo with its natural habitat in the wild. In the zoo, the tiger is confined to a small cage, pacing restlessly with quiet rage, while in the wild, it would roam freely, hunting near waterholes and terrifying villagers. The poet highlights the tiger's loss of freedom and dignity in captivity.

Question 2:
What message does the poet convey through the poem 'A Tiger in the Zoo'?
Answer:

The poet conveys a strong message about the cruelty of captivity and the importance of freedom for wild animals. The tiger's helplessness and frustration in the cage symbolize how humans disrupt nature. The poem urges us to respect wildlife and their natural habitats.

Question 3:
Explain the significance of the phrase 'quiet rage' in the poem.
Answer:

The phrase 'quiet rage' signifies the tiger's suppressed anger and frustration due to its confinement. Though the tiger appears calm, its pent-up emotions reflect its innate wildness and desire for freedom. The poet uses this phrase to evoke sympathy for the tiger's plight.

Question 4:
How does the poet describe the tiger's natural habitat in the poem?
Answer:

The poet describes the tiger's natural habitat as a lush forest where it would lurk near waterholes, hunting deer and striking fear into villagers. This vivid imagery contrasts sharply with its dull, restricted life in the zoo, emphasizing the tiger's loss of its true identity.

Question 5:
What emotions does the tiger evoke in the readers of the poem?
Answer:

The tiger evokes a mix of sympathy and sadness in readers. Its powerless state in the cage makes us reflect on human cruelty towards animals. The poem also stirs a sense of guilt for robbing the tiger of its freedom and natural instincts.

Question 6:
Why does the poet mention the tiger's 'brilliant stripes' in the poem?
Answer:

The poet mentions the tiger's 'brilliant stripes' to highlight its natural beauty and majesty, which are wasted in captivity. The stripes symbolize its wild essence, now trapped behind bars. This detail reinforces the tragedy of confining such a magnificent creature.

Question 7:
How does the poet contrast the life of the tiger in the zoo with its natural habitat in A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:

The poet contrasts the tiger's life in the zoo with its natural habitat to highlight its loss of freedom.
In the wild, the tiger roams freely in the jungle, hunts near water holes, and snarls at villages, showing its power.
In the zoo, it is confined to a cage, paces quietly, and feels frustrated, as its natural instincts are suppressed. The contrast emphasizes the cruelty of captivity.

Question 8:
What message does the poet convey through the poem A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:

The poet conveys a strong message about the inhumanity of keeping wild animals in captivity.
The tiger, a symbol of strength and freedom, is reduced to a helpless creature in a cage, which evokes sympathy.
The poem urges readers to rethink the ethics of zoos and respect wildlife in their natural habitats.

Question 9:
Explain the significance of the phrase 'quiet rage' in the poem A Tiger in the Zoo.
Answer:

The phrase 'quiet rage' signifies the tiger's suppressed anger and frustration in captivity.
Though it appears calm, its instincts and emotions are boiling inside due to confinement.
This phrase highlights the unnatural state of the tiger, contrasting its true wild nature with its helplessness in the zoo.

Question 10:
How does the poet use imagery to describe the tiger in its natural habitat in A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to depict the tiger's life in the wild:

  • 'Lurking in shadow' – shows its stealthy hunting nature.
  • 'Sliding through long grass' – portrays its graceful movement.
  • 'Snarling near villages' – reflects its dominance and fearlessness.
These images create a stark contrast with its dull, caged existence in the zoo.

Question 11:
What emotions does the tiger evoke in the readers of the poem A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:

The tiger evokes sympathy and sadness in readers as they witness its suffering in captivity.
Its helplessness and loss of freedom make readers reflect on the cruelty of keeping wild animals confined.
The poem also stirs a sense of guilt and responsibility towards wildlife conservation.

Question 12:
How does the structure of the poem A Tiger in the Zoo contribute to its theme?
Answer:

The poem's structure alternates between the tiger's life in the zoo and its natural habitat, reinforcing the theme of freedom vs. captivity.
The short, rhythmic stanzas mirror the tiger's pacing in the cage, while the vivid descriptions of the jungle highlight what it has lost.
This contrast deepens the emotional impact of the poem.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Compare the life of the tiger in the zoo with its life in the wild as described in the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem contrasts the tiger's confined life in a zoo with its natural freedom in the wild.


Argument 1
  • In the zoo, the tiger paces in a cage, showing frustration and helplessness.
  • Our textbook describes its quiet rage as it ignores visitors.

Argument 2
  • In the wild, it would lurk near water holes, hunting deer with power and grace.
  • The poet highlights its majestic presence in the jungle, contrasting its dull zoo life.

Conclusion

The poem emphasizes how captivity strips the tiger of its natural instincts and dignity.

Question 2:
How does the poet use imagery to depict the tiger's emotions in A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:
Introduction

Leslie Norris uses vivid imagery to convey the tiger's emotions in captivity.


Argument 1
  • The pads of velvet quiet show its suppressed strength and silent anger.
  • Our textbook mentions its stalking movements, reflecting its restless spirit.

Argument 2
  • The stars shining at night symbolize its longing for freedom.
  • The concrete cell imagery contrasts with its natural jungle habitat.

Conclusion

The poet's imagery effectively portrays the tiger's frustration and helplessness.

Question 3:
Explain the significance of the last stanza in A Tiger in the Zoo.
Answer:
Introduction

The final stanza highlights the tiger's helplessness and the indifference of humans.


Argument 1
  • The tiger hears the last voice of patrolling cars, showing its isolation.
  • Our textbook notes its staring at stars, symbolizing unfulfilled desires.

Argument 2
  • The brilliant stars represent freedom, which the tiger cannot attain.
  • The stanza ends with a quiet tone, emphasizing its resignation.

Conclusion

The last stanza deepens the poem's theme of captivity versus freedom.

Question 4:
What message does the poet convey about wildlife conservation in A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem critiques human interference in wildlife through the tiger's plight.


Argument 1
  • The tiger's quiet rage reflects the harm of keeping wild animals in cages.
  • Our textbook shows how its natural instincts are suppressed.

Argument 2
  • The poet contrasts its majestic wild life with its dull zoo existence.
  • This highlights the need for ethical wildlife conservation.

Conclusion

The poem urges respect for animals' natural habitats.

Question 5:
Analyze the contrast between the tiger's reality and dreams in the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

The tiger dreams of freedom while trapped in a cage.


Argument 1
  • Its reality is a concrete cell, where it paces helplessly.
  • Our textbook describes its staring at stars, longing for the jungle.

Argument 2
  • In dreams, it lurks near water holes, hunting freely.
  • The contrast emphasizes its lost dignity and power.

Conclusion

The poem uses this contrast to evoke sympathy for captive animals.

Question 6:
How does the poet create sympathy for the tiger in A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:
Introduction

Leslie Norris evokes sympathy by highlighting the tiger's suffering.


Argument 1
  • The quiet rage shows its suppressed emotions, making readers pity it.
  • Our textbook mentions its pacing, reflecting its frustration.

Argument 2
  • The imagery of stars symbolizes its unfulfilled desires.
  • Its brilliant wild life contrasts with its dull captivity.

Conclusion

The poet successfully makes readers empathize with the tiger's plight.

Question 7:
Discuss the theme of freedom in A Tiger in the Zoo.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem explores the tiger's longing for freedom in captivity.


Argument 1
  • The tiger's pacing shows its restless desire to escape.
  • Our textbook describes its staring at stars, symbolizing hope.

Argument 2
  • Its natural habitat near water holes represents lost freedom.
  • The concrete cell imagery reinforces its imprisonment.

Conclusion

The poem emphasizes freedom as essential for all living beings.

Question 8:
How does the poet use sound imagery in A Tiger in the Zoo?
Answer:
Introduction

Sound imagery enhances the poem's emotional impact.


Argument 1
  • The last voice of patrolling cars highlights the tiger's loneliness.
  • Our textbook mentions its quiet rage, creating a tense silence.

Argument 2
  • In the wild, the tiger's snarling would echo, showing its power.
  • The absence of natural sounds in the zoo deepens its sadness.

Conclusion

Sound imagery contrasts the tiger's vibrant wild life with its silent captivity.

Question 9:
Explain the symbolism of the stars in A Tiger in the Zoo.
Answer:
Introduction

The stars symbolize the tiger's unattainable freedom and dreams.


Argument 1
  • The tiger stares at brilliant stars, longing for its jungle home.
  • Our textbook shows how they represent hope and distant desires.

Argument 2
  • The stars' brightness contrasts with the concrete cell's darkness.
  • They remind the tiger of its lost majesty and power.

Conclusion

The stars deepen the poem's theme of captivity versus freedom.

Question 10:
How does the poem A Tiger in the Zoo reflect human insensitivity?
Answer:
Introduction

The poem critiques human cruelty towards animals.


Argument 1
  • The tiger's quiet rage shows humans ignore its suffering.
  • Our textbook describes visitors who view it as entertainment.

Argument 2
  • The concrete cell reflects human disregard for natural habitats.
  • Patrolling cars symbolize human control over wildlife.

Conclusion

The poem urges empathy and respect for animals.

Question 11:
Compare and contrast the life of the tiger in the zoo with its life in the wild as described in the poem A Tiger in the Zoo. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris presents a stark contrast between the life of a tiger in captivity and its natural habitat. In the zoo, the tiger is confined to a small cage, where it moves with quiet rage, symbolizing its suppressed anger and frustration. The poet describes its brilliant stripes and velvet quiet steps, but these majestic features lose their meaning in the restricted environment. The tiger's life is reduced to pacing back and forth, hearing the last voice of the patrolling cars, showing its disconnection from nature.

In contrast, the poet imagines the tiger in the wild, where it should be lurking in shadow near a water hole, striking fear into the villagers. The wild tiger is free to roam the dense forest, hunt at will, and display its natural power. The poem highlights the tiger's plump deer as prey, emphasizing its role as a predator in the ecosystem. The comparison underscores the tragedy of keeping such a magnificent creature in captivity, stripping it of its dignity and purpose.

Question 12:
How does the poet use imagery and symbolism in A Tiger in the Zoo to convey the theme of freedom vs. captivity? Explain with references from the poem.
Answer:

The poet Leslie Norris employs vivid imagery and powerful symbolism in A Tiger in the Zoo to highlight the conflict between freedom and captivity. The tiger's brilliant stripes and velvet quiet steps create a visual image of its beauty, but these traits are wasted in the cage, symbolizing the loss of its natural grandeur. The concrete cell represents the artificial and oppressive environment of the zoo, contrasting sharply with the open wilderness where the tiger belongs.

The poet also uses auditory imagery, such as the last voice of patrolling cars, to emphasize the tiger's isolation from its natural habitat. The plump deer symbolizes the tiger's rightful prey, while its absence in the zoo underscores its helplessness. The tiger's quiet rage symbolizes its suppressed instincts and frustration. Through these devices, the poet conveys the message that captivity robs wild animals of their essence, making a strong case for freedom and natural living conditions.

Question 13:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet contrasts the life of a tiger in the wild with its life in captivity. Elaborate on this contrast, highlighting how the poet uses imagery and emotions to convey the message.
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris vividly contrasts the freedom of a tiger in its natural habitat with its confinement in a zoo. The poet uses powerful imagery and emotions to emphasize this difference.

In the Wild:
The tiger is portrayed as a majestic and powerful creature, roaming freely in the jungle. The poet describes it "stalking in the tall grass" and "snarling around houses", showcasing its natural instincts and dominance. The imagery of "plump deer" and "water holes" highlights the tiger's connection to its ecosystem.

In Captivity:
In contrast, the tiger in the zoo is depicted as a pitiable figure, confined to a "concrete cell". The poet uses phrases like "ignoring visitors" and "stalking the length of his cage" to show its frustration and helplessness. The repetition of "quiet rage" underscores its suppressed anger and loss of dignity.

Emotional Impact:
The poet evokes sympathy for the tiger by highlighting its unnatural environment. The comparison between its "brilliant stripes" against the "bars of the cage" symbolizes the clash between its wild essence and artificial imprisonment. The poem serves as a critique of human interference in nature, urging readers to reflect on the ethical implications of keeping wild animals in captivity.

Question 14:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet contrasts the life of a tiger in the wild with its life in captivity. Elaborate on this contrast, highlighting the poet's message about freedom and confinement.
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris vividly contrasts the life of a tiger in its natural habitat with its life in a zoo. In the wild, the tiger is a majestic and powerful creature, stalking through the long grass near a water hole, where it hunts deer and terrorizes villages at night. This imagery emphasizes the tiger's freedom, strength, and connection to nature.

In contrast, the tiger in the zoo is confined to a small cage, pacing back and forth on padded feet. Its spirit is broken, and its brilliant stripes lose their grandeur in the artificial environment. The poet uses this stark contrast to convey a powerful message about the cruelty of confinement and the loss of dignity when wild animals are caged for human entertainment.

The poet's message is clear: freedom is essential for all living beings. The tiger's quiet rage and helplessness in the cage symbolize the suffering of animals deprived of their natural habitats. The poem urges readers to reflect on the ethical implications of keeping wild animals in captivity and to appreciate the beauty of creatures in their natural surroundings.

Question 15:
Compare and contrast the life of the tiger in the zoo with that of a tiger in the wild as depicted in the poem A Tiger in the Zoo. Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris highlights the stark differences between a tiger's life in captivity and its natural habitat. Here’s a detailed comparison:

  • Freedom vs. Confinement: In the wild, the tiger roams freely in the jungle, "sliding through long grass" and "snarling around houses", showcasing its power and independence. In contrast, the zoo tiger is confined to a "cage", pacing "in quiet rage", symbolizing its helplessness.
  • Natural Behavior vs. Artificial Environment: The wild tiger hunts near watering holes, "terrorising the village", displaying its primal instincts. The zoo tiger, however, is reduced to a spectacle, "ignoring visitors", as its natural behaviors are suppressed.
  • Emotional State: The wild tiger embodies majesty and fearlessness, while the caged tiger’s "quiet rage" reflects its frustration and longing for freedom.

The poem critiques human interference in nature, emphasizing how captivity strips the tiger of its dignity and natural instincts.

Question 16:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet contrasts the life of a tiger in the wild with its life in captivity. Elaborate on this contrast, highlighting the poet's message about freedom and confinement. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris vividly contrasts the life of a tiger in its natural habitat with its life in a zoo, emphasizing the themes of freedom and confinement.

Life in the Wild: The poet describes how the tiger should be stalking through the jungle, snarling near villages, and terrorizing the forest with its presence. This imagery highlights the tiger's power, independence, and natural instincts. The wild represents freedom, where the tiger can roam, hunt, and live as per its nature.

Life in Captivity: In contrast, the tiger in the zoo is reduced to a pitiable figure. It paces its cage with quiet rage, its strength and majesty suppressed. The bars of the cage symbolize confinement, stripping the tiger of its dignity and purpose. The poet mentions how the tiger ignores visitors, showing its disinterest in the artificial environment.

Poet's Message: Through this contrast, the poet critiques the human practice of caging wild animals for entertainment. The poem evokes sympathy for the tiger and questions the ethics of zoos. It suggests that freedom is essential for all living beings to thrive, and confinement leads to frustration and loss of identity.

Example from the Poem: The lines "He should be snarling around houses at the jungle’s edge" versus "But he’s locked in a concrete cell" starkly highlight the difference between the tiger's natural and captive states.

Question 17:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet contrasts the life of a tiger in the wild with its life in captivity. Elaborate on this contrast, highlighting the poet's message about freedom and confinement. (5 marks)
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris vividly contrasts the life of a tiger in its natural habitat with its life in a zoo to convey a powerful message about freedom and confinement.

Life in the Wild: The poet describes how the tiger should be "lurking in shadow" or "snarling around houses" near the jungle, showcasing its natural behavior as a fierce and free creature. The imagery of "plump deer passing" and "water holes" emphasizes the tiger's role as a predator in the ecosystem.

Life in Captivity: In contrast, the tiger in the zoo is reduced to a pitiable figure, pacing its "cage" with "quiet rage". The confinement strips away its dignity, as it is forced to live in an artificial environment, far from its natural instincts.

Poet's Message: The poet highlights the cruelty of keeping wild animals in captivity, robbing them of their freedom and natural existence. The tiger's "brilliant stripes" and "quiet rage" symbolize its suppressed power and frustration, urging readers to reflect on the ethics of zoos and the importance of preserving wildlife in their natural habitats.

Question 18:
Compare and contrast the life of the tiger in the zoo with its life in the wild as depicted in the poem A Tiger in the Zoo. How does the poet highlight the conflict between captivity and freedom?
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris presents a stark contrast between the life of a tiger in captivity and its natural habitat in the wild. The poet uses vivid imagery and emotions to emphasize the conflict between freedom and confinement.

Life in the Wild:
In the wild, the tiger is a majestic and powerful creature. The poet describes it as "stalking in the tall grass" and "snarling around houses", showcasing its dominance and freedom. The tiger enjoys:

  • Unrestricted movement in its natural habitat.
  • The thrill of hunting and surviving in the jungle.
  • The ability to express its natural instincts without barriers.

Life in the Zoo:
In contrast, the tiger in the zoo is confined to a "concrete cell", stripped of its dignity and freedom. The poet highlights its misery through phrases like "ignoring visitors" and "pacing in quiet rage". The limitations include:

  • No space to roam or hunt, leading to frustration.
  • Forced to live in an artificial environment, away from its natural home.
  • Loss of identity as a wild animal, reduced to a spectacle for humans.

The poet uses this contrast to criticize human interference in nature, questioning the ethics of keeping wild animals in captivity. The tiger's silent rage symbolizes the universal longing for freedom, making the poem a powerful commentary on the conflict between man and nature.

Question 19:
Compare and contrast the life of the tiger in the zoo with its life in the wild as described in the poem A Tiger in the Zoo. How does the poet highlight the tiger's emotions in both settings?
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris presents a stark contrast between the life of a tiger in captivity and its natural habitat. The poet uses vivid imagery and emotions to highlight the differences.

Life in the Zoo:
In the zoo, the tiger is confined to a cage, which is a small and artificial space. The poet describes the tiger as stalking quietly in its cage, showing its frustration and helplessness. The bars of the cage symbolize restriction, and the tiger's quiet rage reflects its suppressed emotions. The tiger's movements are limited, and it can only hear the patrolling cars at night, emphasizing its isolation from nature.

Life in the Wild:
In contrast, the poet imagines the tiger in the wild, where it would be lurking in shadow near a water hole, waiting to hunt. The wild tiger is free, powerful, and in harmony with its surroundings. The poet describes the plump deer as its natural prey, highlighting the tiger's role in the ecosystem. The jungle is its rightful home, where it can roam and express its natural instincts.

Emotions Highlighted:
The poet uses emotions like anger and longing to show the tiger's plight in the zoo. The phrase ignoring visitors shows its disdain for the artificial environment. In the wild, the tiger would feel majestic and fearless, but in the zoo, it feels powerless and trapped. The poet's tone evokes sympathy for the tiger, making us reflect on the impact of human actions on wildlife.

Value-Added Insight:
The poem also raises questions about conservation and animal rights. While zoos may aim to protect animals, they often fail to provide the freedom and space that wild animals need. The tiger's quiet rage is a metaphor for the silent suffering of animals in captivity.

Question 20:
Compare and contrast the life of the tiger in the zoo with its life in the wild as depicted in the poem A Tiger in the Zoo. How does the poet highlight the conflict between captivity and freedom?
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo by Leslie Norris presents a stark contrast between the life of a tiger in captivity and its natural habitat in the wild. The poet uses vivid imagery and emotions to emphasize the unnatural confinement of the tiger in the zoo versus its instinctive freedom in the jungle.

  • Life in the Zoo: The tiger is confined to a small cage, pacing restlessly on 'pads of velvet quiet.' Its strength and majesty are reduced to mere spectacle for visitors. The poet describes its 'quiet rage,' symbolizing suppressed instincts and frustration.
  • Life in the Wild: In contrast, the tiger should be lurking in shadows near a water hole, terrorizing villages, or sliding through long grass. The wild represents its true identity—powerful, free, and feared.

The poet highlights the conflict by juxtaposing these two scenarios. The tiger's 'brilliant stripes' and 'quiet rage' in the cage evoke sympathy, while descriptions of its natural behavior remind readers of the cruelty of captivity. The poem critiques how humans剥夺野生动物of their freedom for entertainment, raising ethical questions about zoos.

Question 21:
Analyze the use of symbolism and personification in the poem A Tiger in the Zoo. How do these literary devices enhance the poem's central theme?
Answer:

In A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet employs symbolism and personification to deepen the theme of lost freedom and natural injustice.

  • Symbolism: The 'cage' symbolizes human oppression and the artificial constraints placed on wild animals. The tiger's 'brilliant stripes' represent its inherent wildness, now dulled by captivity. The 'water hole' and 'village' in the wild stanzas symbolize the tiger's rightful place in nature's hierarchy.
  • Personification: The tiger is given human-like emotions, such as 'quiet rage' and 'ignoring visitors,' to evoke empathy. Its 'pads of velvet quiet' suggest a forced silence, mirroring how captivity stifles its roar—both literally and metaphorically.

These devices amplify the poem's critique of zoos by making the tiger's suffering relatable. The personification invites readers to see the tiger as a sentient being, while the symbolism underscores the broader ecological and ethical message about humanity's interference with nature.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
In A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet contrasts the tiger's life in the wild and in captivity. Case Summary: The tiger's natural behavior is restricted in the zoo. Question: How does the poet highlight the tiger's freedom in the jungle versus its confinement in the cage? Provide two examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem contrasts the tiger's life in the wild (stalking prey) with its dull existence in the zoo (ignoring visitors).

Analysis
  • In the jungle, the tiger snarls near watering holes, showing its power (freedom).
  • In the cage, it paces quietly on padded paws, symbolizing lost vigor (confinement).
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how captivity suppresses the tiger's natural instincts.

Question 2:
Case Summary: The tiger's anger and helplessness are central themes in the poem. Question: Explain how the poet uses imagery to depict the tiger's emotions. Support your answer with two lines from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The tiger's frustration is shown through vivid descriptions of its trapped state.

Analysis
  • Imagery of "quiet rage" reflects suppressed anger.
  • "Baring his white fangs" symbolizes its helpless aggression.
Conclusion

We studied how these lines emphasize the tiger's powerless fury in captivity.

Question 3:
Case Summary: The poem critiques human interference in nature. Question: How does the poet suggest that the tiger's natural habitat is superior to the zoo? Analyze with two arguments.
Answer:
Case Summary

The poem implies the jungle allows the tiger to thrive, unlike the artificial zoo environment.

Analysis
  • In the wild, it hunts (natural instinct), while in the zoo, it depends on food.
  • The jungle offers space ("shadowed grass"), whereas the cage is limiting.
Conclusion

Our textbook highlights how zoos disrupt wildlife behavior.

Question 4:
Case Summary: The tiger's silent suffering is a key idea. Question: How does the poet use contrast to show the tiger's emotional state before and after captivity?
Answer:
Case Summary

The tiger's energetic past is compared to its passive present in the zoo.

Analysis
  • Earlier, it terrorized villages; now, it ignores stares.
  • Its brilliant stripes lose meaning behind bars.
Conclusion

We studied how the poet uses contrast to evoke sympathy for the tiger.

Question 5:
In A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet contrasts the tiger's life in the wild and in captivity. Case Summary: The tiger's natural behavior is restricted in the zoo.

How does the poet highlight this contrast? Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary: The poem contrasts the tiger's freedom in the wild with its confined life in the zoo.

Analysis:
  • In the wild, the tiger hunts near watering holes ("sliding through long grass").
  • In captivity, it paces in a cage, showing frustration ("stalking the length of his cage").
Conclusion: The poet uses imagery to emphasize the tiger's loss of natural instincts in captivity.
Question 6:
The poem A Tiger in the Zoo uses vivid imagery to depict the tiger's emotions. Case Summary: The tiger's silent rage reflects its helplessness.

Identify two poetic devices used to convey this emotion and explain their impact.
Answer:
Case Summary: The tiger's silent anger is portrayed through poetic devices.

Analysis:
  • Personification: "He hears the last voice at night"—humanizing the tiger's loneliness.
  • Metaphor: "Ignoring visitors"—shows its indifference to onlookers.
Conclusion: These devices deepen our understanding of the tiger's emotional struggle.
Question 7:
The poem A Tiger in the Zoo raises questions about animal rights. Case Summary: The tiger's captivity symbolizes human interference.

How does the poet make us reflect on this issue? Provide two examples from the text.
Answer:
Case Summary: The poem critiques human control over wildlife.

Analysis:
  • The tiger's "brilliant stripes" lose meaning in a cage, showing wasted beauty.
  • Its "quiet rage" hints at suppressed instincts due to confinement.
Conclusion: The poet urges readers to reconsider keeping wild animals in zoos.
Question 8:
In A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet describes the tiger's surroundings. Case Summary: The cage and jungle settings reflect its dual life.

Compare these settings and explain how they influence the tiger's behavior.
Answer:
Case Summary: The poem contrasts the tiger's natural and artificial habitats.

Analysis:
  • Jungle: "shadow" and "water hole"—symbolize freedom and power.
  • Cage: "concrete cell"—represents confinement and monotony.
Conclusion: The settings highlight the tiger's loss of identity in captivity.
Question 9:
In A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet contrasts the tiger's life in the wild and captivity. Case Summary: The tiger paces in his cage. Analysis: How does the poet highlight the tiger's natural instincts? Conclusion: What message does this convey about freedom?
Answer:
Case Summary

The tiger in the zoo paces restlessly, showing his frustration.

Analysis
  • The poet describes the tiger's natural habitat—lurking in shadows, snarling near villages.
  • In captivity, he is reduced to a mere spectacle, ignoring visitors.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows how confinement suppresses wild instincts. The message is clear: freedom is essential for all creatures.

Question 10:
Case Summary: The tiger's stripes are vivid in the zoo. Analysis: Why does the poet emphasize the tiger's appearance? Conclusion: How does this reflect the theme of appearance vs. reality?
Answer:
Case Summary

The tiger's bright stripes stand out in the cage.

Analysis
  • The poet contrasts his beauty with his helplessness.
  • In the wild, his stripes help him hunt; in the zoo, they attract stares.
Conclusion

We studied how appearances deceive. The tiger looks majestic but is powerless, showing the harsh reality of captivity.

Question 11:
Case Summary: The tiger ignores visitors at the zoo. Analysis: What does this behavior reveal about his emotions? Conclusion: How does this connect to the poet's critique of zoos?
Answer:
Case Summary

The tiger stares at the stars, ignoring the crowd.

Analysis
  • His indifference shows disdain for captivity.
  • He longs for the wild, where he belongs.
Conclusion

Our textbook explains how zoos strip animals of dignity. The poet critiques this by showing the tiger's silent suffering.

Question 12:
Case Summary: The poet describes the tiger's quiet rage. Analysis: How does this phrase capture the tiger's state of mind? Conclusion: Why is this a powerful poetic device?
Answer:
Case Summary

The tiger's anger is suppressed but evident.

Analysis
  • Quiet rage shows his helpless fury.
  • He cannot roar freely, symbolizing oppression.
Conclusion

We studied how poets use contrasts. Here, the phrase highlights the tiger's trapped spirit, making the poem emotionally impactful.

Question 13:
Read the following extract from A Tiger in the Zoo and answer the question that follows:

'He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage.'

How does the poet use imagery and contrast to depict the tiger's emotions and its confined existence?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to create a stark contrast between the tiger's natural behavior and its life in captivity. The phrase 'vivid stripes' highlights the tiger's majestic appearance, while 'pads of velvet quiet' emphasizes its grace and power. However, the contrast is evident in the tiger's restricted movement ('few steps of his cage') and its suppressed anger ('quiet rage').

The imagery of the tiger stalking in its cage mirrors how it would move in the wild, but the confinement strips away its freedom. The contrast between its natural instincts and the unnatural cage life evokes sympathy for the tiger, making the reader reflect on the cruelty of keeping wild animals in captivity.

Question 14:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet describes the tiger's behavior in the zoo and contrasts it with how it would behave in the wild. Analyze how the poet uses tone and mood to convey the central theme of the poem.
Answer:

The poet employs a tone of melancholy and frustration to highlight the tiger's plight. Words like 'quiet rage' and 'ignoring visitors' create a somber mood, emphasizing the tiger's helplessness and dissatisfaction with its confined life.

In contrast, the description of the tiger in the wild ('snarling around houses' or 'terrorizing the village') uses a more intense and fearful tone, showing its natural dominance. The shift in mood from oppression to power underscores the central theme: the conflict between nature and captivity, urging readers to reconsider the ethics of zoos.

Question 15:
Read the following extract from A Tiger in the Zoo and answer the question that follows:

'He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage.'

Q. How does the poet use imagery to contrast the tiger's natural behavior with its life in captivity?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to highlight the stark contrast between the tiger's natural behavior and its confined life in the zoo. The phrase 'stalks in his vivid stripes' suggests the tiger's majestic and powerful movement, which is a part of its natural instinct. However, the line 'The few steps of his cage' emphasizes the limited space it has, which is a far cry from its natural habitat.


The words 'pads of velvet quiet' depict the tiger's soft and stealthy movement, a trait essential for hunting in the wild. Yet, the phrase 'quiet rage' reveals its suppressed anger and frustration due to captivity. The poet effectively uses these contrasting images to evoke sympathy for the tiger and critique the artificial environment of zoos.

Question 16:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet describes the tiger's life in captivity and imagines how it would be in the wild. Based on your understanding, answer the following:

Q. How does the poem highlight the theme of freedom vs. confinement? Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

The poem A Tiger in the Zoo powerfully contrasts the themes of freedom and confinement. In the wild, the tiger would be 'snarling around houses at the jungle's edge' and 'terrorizing the village,' showcasing its natural dominance and freedom. However, in the zoo, it is reduced to pacing 'the few steps of his cage' in silent frustration.


The poet uses these contrasting scenarios to emphasize the tiger's loss of freedom. The imagery of the tiger's 'quiet rage' and its 'vivid stripes' against the dull backdrop of the cage highlights the unnaturalness of its confinement. The poem ultimately questions the ethics of keeping wild animals in captivity, stressing the importance of their natural habitat for their well-being.

Question 17:
Read the following extract from A Tiger in the Zoo and answer the question that follows:

'He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage.'

How does the poet use imagery and contrast to depict the tiger's emotions and its confined state?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery and striking contrast to highlight the tiger's emotions and its captivity. The phrase 'vivid stripes' creates a visual image of the tiger's majestic appearance, while 'pads of velvet quiet' emphasizes its silent, powerful movements. However, this grandeur is contrasted with the reality of its confinement—'The few steps of his cage'—showing how limited its freedom is.

The phrase 'quiet rage' further deepens this contrast. While the tiger appears calm externally, it harbors intense anger and frustration due to its captivity. This use of imagery and contrast helps the reader empathize with the tiger's plight, making the poem more impactful.

Question 18:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet describes the tiger's natural habitat and its life in the zoo. Compare and contrast these two settings, explaining how they affect the tiger's behavior and emotions.
Answer:

In the poem, the poet contrasts the tiger's natural habitat with its life in the zoo to highlight its suffering in captivity.

  • Natural Habitat: The tiger is described as lurking in shadows near waterholes or snarling around villages, showcasing its power and freedom. Here, it is a fierce predator, living in harmony with nature.
  • Zoo Setting: In the zoo, the tiger is confined to a cage, pacing restlessly in limited space. Its 'quiet rage' reflects its suppressed instincts and frustration.

The contrast emphasizes how captivity strips the tiger of its natural behavior, reducing it to a mere spectacle. The poet evokes sympathy for the tiger, urging readers to reconsider the ethics of keeping wild animals in confinement.

Question 19:
Read the following extract from A Tiger in the Zoo and answer the question that follows:

'He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage.'

Q. How does the poet use imagery and contrast to depict the tiger's emotions and physical state in the zoo?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery and sharp contrast to highlight the tiger's emotions and confinement. The phrase 'vivid stripes' creates a visual image of the tiger's striking appearance, while 'pads of velvet quiet' emphasizes its silent, graceful movements. However, the tiger's natural majesty is contrasted with its restricted movement ('few steps of his cage'), showing its helplessness. The 'quiet rage' further deepens this contrast—while the tiger appears calm, it internally resents its captivity. This imagery and contrast make the reader empathize with the tiger's plight, emphasizing the theme of freedom vs. confinement.

Question 20:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet describes the tiger's natural habitat and its life in captivity. Compare and contrast these two settings, explaining how they affect the tiger's behavior and emotions.
Answer:

The poem contrasts the tiger's natural habitat with its life in captivity to highlight its suffering. In the wild, the tiger is a powerful predator—'lurking in shadow' near watering holes, striking terror into villagers. This setting reflects its freedom and dominance. In contrast, the zoo cage reduces the tiger to a passive creature, pacing 'few steps' in frustration. The poet uses this comparison to emphasize:

  • Loss of Freedom: The tiger's natural instincts are suppressed in captivity.
  • Emotional Distress: Its 'quiet rage' shows unexpressed anger.
  • Artificial Environment: Concrete replaces forests, stripping its dignity.
This contrast critiques human interference in wildlife, urging empathy towards animals.

Question 21:
Read the following extract from A Tiger in the Zoo and answer the question that follows:

'He stalks in his vivid stripes
The few steps of his cage,
On pads of velvet quiet,
In his quiet rage.'

Q. How does the poet use imagery and contrast to depict the tiger's emotions and physical state in the zoo?
Answer:

The poet uses vivid imagery to highlight the tiger's majestic appearance and confined existence. The phrase 'vivid stripes' emphasizes the tiger's natural beauty, while 'pads of velvet quiet' creates a sensory image of its soft yet powerful movements. The contrast between the tiger's innate wildness ('quiet rage') and its restricted environment ('few steps of his cage') underscores its helplessness and suppressed fury.

Additionally, the poet contrasts the tiger's potential freedom in the wild with its captivity, making the reader reflect on the cruelty of caging such a magnificent creature. This use of imagery and contrast evokes empathy and highlights the theme of human interference in nature.

Question 22:
In the poem A Tiger in the Zoo, the poet describes the tiger's behavior in the zoo and imagines its life in the jungle. Compare and contrast these two scenarios, explaining how they reflect the central theme of the poem.
Answer:

The poem contrasts the tiger's life in captivity with its natural habitat to emphasize the central theme of freedom vs. confinement.

  • In the Zoo: The tiger is powerless, pacing a few steps in its cage, filled with 'quiet rage.' Its movements are restricted, and its spirit is broken, symbolizing the loss of natural instincts.
  • In the Jungle: The poet imagines the tiger as a fearsome predator, lurking near waterholes and terrifying villagers. Here, the tiger is free, embodying strength and dominance.

The stark difference between these scenarios highlights the cruelty of keeping wild animals in captivity. The poet suggests that denying an animal its natural freedom is unjust, reinforcing the theme of respect for nature.

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