Online Self Test
Learn & Practice Quizzes & Challenges Competitive Exams
 

On His Blindness – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

Previous ChapterNext Chapter
Previous Chapter Next Chapter

Study Materials

9th

9th - English (Panorama Part‑1)

On His Blindness

Jump to Question Sets

Overview of the Chapter

The chapter On His Blindness is a sonnet written by the renowned English poet John Milton. It explores the poet's personal struggle with his loss of sight and his deep contemplation on how to serve God despite his physical limitations. The poem reflects Milton's faith and his acceptance of his condition, emphasizing the idea that true service to God lies in patience and submission to His will.

Sonnet: A 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme, often expressing deep emotions or philosophical ideas.

Summary of the Poem

In On His Blindness, Milton begins by lamenting his blindness, which he feels has rendered him unable to use his poetic talent to serve God. He questions whether God expects him to continue writing despite his disability. However, as the poem progresses, Milton finds solace in the realization that God does not demand active service but values patience and acceptance. The concluding lines reinforce the idea that those who endure suffering with patience also serve God.

Themes

  • Faith and Acceptance: The poem highlights Milton's unwavering faith in God and his acceptance of his blindness as part of divine will.
  • Patience: Milton learns that patience in suffering is as valuable as active service to God.
  • Human Limitations: The poem reflects on how physical limitations do not diminish one's spiritual worth.

Literary Devices

  • Metaphor: Milton uses the metaphor of a "light" to represent his lost sight.
  • Allusion: The reference to the "talent" alludes to the Biblical Parable of the Talents, symbolizing one's God-given abilities.
  • Personification: Patience is personified as a wise figure that responds to Milton's doubts.

Key Lines

"When I consider how my light is spent,
Ere half my days, in this dark world and wide..."

"They also serve who only stand and wait."

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 On His Blindness?
Answer:

Acceptance of God's will.

Question 2:
Who is the poet of On His Blindness?
Answer:

John Milton.

Question 3:
What does the poet mean by light denied?
Answer:

Loss of his eyesight.

Question 4:
What does Patience reply to the poet?
Answer:

God needs no work.

Question 5:
What is the central conflict in the poem?
Answer:

Struggle with blindness.

Question 6:
What does talent symbolize in the poem?
Answer:

Poet's writing ability.

Question 7:
What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?
Answer:

ABBA ABBA CDE CDE.

Question 8:
What does the poet fear losing due to blindness?
Answer:

His ability to serve God.

Question 9:
What is the form of the poem?
Answer:

Petrarchan sonnet.

Question 10:
What does they also serve mean?
Answer:

Even patience pleases God.

Question 11:
What is the moral of the poem?
Answer:

Trust in God's plan.

Question 12:
What does day-labour refer to?
Answer:

Poet's literary work.

Question 13:
How does the poet find solace?
Answer:

By accepting God's will.

Question 14:
Who is the poet of the poem On His Blindness?
Answer:
The poet of the poem On His Blindness is John Milton.
Question 15:
What is the central theme of On His Blindness?
Answer:

The central theme of On His Blindness is acceptance of God's will and finding purpose despite physical limitations. The poem reflects Milton's struggle with his blindness and his eventual submission to divine authority.

Question 16:
What does the phrase "light denied" refer to in the poem?
Answer:

The phrase "light denied" refers to the poet's loss of eyesight, symbolizing his inability to see and the challenges it brings to his life and work.

Question 17:
What does Milton mean by "talent" in the poem?
Answer:

In the poem, "talent" refers to Milton's God-given ability to write, which he feels is now wasted due to his blindness. It also alludes to the biblical parable of talents.

Question 18:
What is the significance of the line "They also serve who only stand and wait"?
Answer:

The line signifies that patience and faith in God's plan are as valuable as active service. It highlights the idea that even in suffering, one can serve a divine purpose.

Question 19:
How does Milton reconcile with his blindness in the poem?
Answer:

Milton reconciles with his blindness by accepting God's will and realizing that true service does not always require physical ability but can be fulfilled through patience and faith.

Question 20:
What literary device is used in the line "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?"?
Answer:

The line uses rhetorical question to express Milton's inner conflict about serving God despite his blindness.

Question 21:
What is the tone of the poem On His Blindness?
Answer:

The tone of the poem shifts from frustration and despair to acceptance and peace as Milton comes to terms with his condition.

Question 22:
How does the poem reflect Milton's religious beliefs?
Answer:

The poem reflects Milton's strong Puritan beliefs, emphasizing submission to God's will and the idea that suffering has a divine purpose.

Question 23:
What does the word "Patience" symbolize in the poem?
Answer:

In the poem, "Patience" symbolizes divine wisdom that reassures Milton that God values sincere devotion over physical ability.

Question 24:
Why is the poem written in the form of a sonnet?
Answer:

The poem is written as a sonnet to convey deep personal emotion and introspection, fitting the structure's traditional use for themes of love, loss, and spiritual reflection.

Question 25:
How does Milton use biblical references in On His Blindness?
Answer:

Milton uses biblical references, such as the parable of talents, to draw parallels between his struggle and spiritual teachings, reinforcing the theme of divine justice.

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 On His Blindness?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem On His Blindness is acceptance of God's will. The poet, John Milton, reflects on his blindness and learns that true service to God lies in patience and submission to His plans.

Question 2:
Who is the Patience referred to in the poem?
Answer:

Patience is personified as a divine figure in the poem. It represents God's reassurance that even without physical sight, one can serve Him through faith and endurance.

Question 3:
What does the phrase They also serve who only stand and wait mean?
Answer:

This phrase means that even passive service (like waiting patiently) is valuable to God. It highlights that obedience and faith matter more than outward actions.

Question 4:
How does Milton initially react to his blindness?
Answer:

Milton initially feels frustrated and helpless, questioning how he can serve God without his sight. He worries his talent is wasted, symbolizing human doubt in adversity.

Question 5:
What literary device is used in Doth God exact day-labour, light denied??
Answer:

The line uses a rhetorical question, reflecting Milton's inner conflict. It also employs metaphor (day-labour as life's work) to emphasize his struggle.

Question 6:
Why does Milton compare himself to a talent in the poem?
Answer:

Milton references the Biblical parable of talents, where a servant buries his talent (a coin). He fears his poetic gift, like the unused coin, might go to waste due to his blindness.

Question 7:
What is the significance of the word mild in the poem?
Answer:

Mild describes God's gentle response to Milton's doubts. It signifies divine compassion, contrasting Milton's earlier agitation with God's patient wisdom.

Question 8:
How does the poem shift in tone after line 8?
Answer:

The tone shifts from despair to resolution. Patience's reply transforms Milton's perspective, replacing anxiety with acceptance of his condition as part of God's plan.

Question 9:
What does light symbolize in the poem?
Answer:

Light symbolizes both physical sight and spiritual enlightenment. Milton realizes that inner faith, not outer vision, defines true service to God.

Question 10:
Why is the poem written in a sonnet form?
Answer:

The Petrarchan sonnet structure (octave + sestet) mirrors Milton's emotional journey. The volta (turn) at line 9 marks his shift from questioning to accepting God's will.

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:
What is the central theme of the poem On His Blindness by John Milton?
Answer:

The central theme of the poem On His Blindness is acceptance of God's will and finding purpose despite physical limitations. Milton reflects on his blindness and questions how he can serve God without sight. The poem concludes with the idea that true service lies in patience and submission to divine will, symbolized by the phrase "They also serve who only stand and wait."

Question 2:
How does Milton use the metaphor of "light" in the poem On His Blindness?
Answer:

Milton uses "light" as a metaphor for both physical vision and spiritual enlightenment. His blindness represents the loss of physical light, but he realizes that spiritual light—faith and obedience to God—is more important. The contrast highlights his struggle and eventual acceptance of his condition.

Question 3:
Explain the significance of the line "They also serve who only stand and wait" in On His Blindness.
Answer:

This line signifies that patience and faith are forms of service to God. Milton learns that even in inactivity or suffering, one can fulfill divine purpose by trusting God's plan. It emphasizes that true devotion isn't limited to outward actions but includes inner submission.

Question 4:
How does the sonnet structure contribute to the message of On His Blindness?
Answer:

The Petrarchan sonnet structure (octave + sestet) mirrors Milton's emotional journey:

  • The octave expresses his despair and questioning.
  • The sestet resolves this tension with divine reassurance.
This shift reflects his transition from doubt to acceptance.

Question 5:
What role does the biblical parable of the talents play in On His Blindness?
Answer:

Milton references the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30) to express his fear of wasting his poetic gift due to blindness. The poem reinterprets the parable—God values sincere effort over measurable output, and even passive endurance is a form of service.

Question 6:
Describe the tone shift in On His Blindness from the beginning to the end.
Answer:

The tone shifts from frustration and despair (e.g., "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?") to peaceful acceptance (e.g., "They also serve..."). This mirrors Milton's emotional growth as he moves from questioning God's justice to embracing his role in the divine plan.

Question 7:
How does Milton use the metaphor of light in the poem?
Answer:

Milton uses light as a metaphor for both physical vision and spiritual enlightenment. His lament about losing his light symbolizes his blindness, but later, he realizes that spiritual clarity and obedience to God are more important than physical sight.

Question 8:
Explain the significance of the line "They also serve who only stand and wait."
Answer:

This line signifies that patience and faith are forms of service to God. Milton realizes that even if he cannot actively work due to his blindness, his willingness to accept God's will and wait patiently is equally valuable in divine eyes.

Question 9:
What emotions does Milton express in the first half of the poem?
Answer:

In the first half, Milton expresses frustration and despair over his blindness. He questions how he can use his talent (writing) when deprived of sight, fearing he may disappoint God. This reflects his initial struggle with his condition.

Question 10:
How does the poem shift in tone from the beginning to the end?
Answer:

The poem begins with a melancholic tone as Milton grieves his loss of sight. However, it shifts to a resigned and hopeful tone as he accepts that God does not demand active labor but values patience and faith above all.

Question 11:
What lesson can readers learn from On His Blindness?
Answer:

Readers learn that physical limitations do not define one's worth. The poem teaches the importance of patience, faith, and trusting in a higher purpose, even when faced with adversity.

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:
Explain how patience and faith are central themes in Milton's On His Blindness. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

In On His Blindness, Milton reflects on his loss of sight and explores themes of patience and faith in God's plan.


Argument 1

The poet initially questions how he can serve God without sight, showing his struggle. Our textbook highlights his frustration in the line, "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?".


Argument 2

Later, patience reassures him that God values willingness over physical ability. The line "They also serve who only stand and wait" emphasizes faith in divine justice.


Conclusion

Milton learns that true service lies in acceptance, blending patience and faith.

Question 2:
Analyze the symbolism of light and darkness in On His Blindness. How does Milton use these to convey his message?
Answer:
Introduction

Milton uses light and darkness as symbols to express his emotional and spiritual journey in the poem.


Argument 1

Light symbolizes knowledge and divine service, as seen in "light denied", reflecting his despair over losing his vision.


Argument 2

Darkness represents his physical blindness but also leads to spiritual enlightenment. Our textbook shows this shift when Patience teaches him acceptance.


Conclusion

Through these symbols, Milton conveys that true vision is spiritual, not physical.

Question 3:
Discuss the tone of On His Blindness and how it changes from the beginning to the end. Provide textual evidence.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem begins with a tone of despair but shifts to acceptance, reflecting Milton's emotional growth.


Argument 1

Initially, the tone is frustrated, as in "When I consider how my light is spent", where he questions God's fairness.


Argument 2

Later, the tone becomes peaceful when Patience replies, "God doth not need either man's work or His own gifts", showing surrender to divine will.


Conclusion

The changing tone mirrors Milton's journey from doubt to faith.

Question 4:
How does Milton use the personification of Patience in On His Blindness to resolve his inner conflict?
Answer:
Introduction

Milton personifies Patience as a divine voice that helps him reconcile his blindness with his faith.


Argument 1

Patience answers his despair, saying "Who best bear His mild yoke, they serve Him best", teaching humility.


Argument 2

Our textbook shows how this personification shifts his perspective, emphasizing spiritual service over physical labor.


Conclusion

Through Patience, Milton finds peace in God's plan.

Question 5:
Compare Milton's On His Blindness with any other poem from your syllabus that deals with adversity. Highlight similarities in themes.
Answer:
Introduction

Both On His Blindness and The Road Not Taken explore adversity but with different perspectives.


Argument 1

Milton faces physical blindness, while Frost's speaker faces life choices. Both express initial doubt, as in "Two roads diverged..." and Milton's questioning of God.


Argument 2

However, both poems conclude with acceptance. Our textbook shows Milton's "They also serve..." and Frost's "And that has made all the difference" as resolutions.


Conclusion

Both poets use adversity to highlight deeper truths about life.

Question 6:
Explain how John Milton expresses his struggle with blindness in On His Blindness. Highlight the central theme of the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

In On His Blindness, Milton reflects on his loss of sight and questions God's justice. Our textbook shows his emotional turmoil.


Argument 1
  • Milton feels useless, asking if God expects work from a blind man.
  • He uses Patience as a symbolic answer to his doubts.

Argument 2
  • The poem shifts from despair to acceptance, showing faith in God’s plan.
  • Milton realizes serving God doesn’t always require physical ability.

Conclusion

The central theme is surrendering to divine will, as Milton finds peace in spiritual obedience.

Question 7:
Analyze the symbolism of light and darkness in On His Blindness. How does Milton use these contrasts?
Answer:
Introduction

Light and darkness in the poem symbolize Milton’s spiritual and physical states. Our textbook highlights this contrast.


Argument 1
  • Darkness represents his blindness and despair, as he calls his talent "useless."
  • Light symbolizes divine wisdom, as Patience reassures him.

Argument 2
  • The shift from darkness to light mirrors his emotional journey.
  • Milton realizes God’s grace shines even in physical darkness.

Conclusion

The contrasts teach that true vision is spiritual, not physical.

Question 8:
Discuss the role of Patience in On His Blindness. How does it resolve Milton’s conflict?
Answer:
Introduction

Patience acts as a divine voice in the poem, resolving Milton’s doubts. We studied its significance in class.


Argument 1
  • Patience reminds Milton that God doesn’t need human labor.
  • It symbolizes acceptance, as Milton learns to "stand and wait."

Argument 2
  • The poem’s tone shifts from frustration to calmness after Patience speaks.
  • Milton realizes obedience is greater than physical service.

Conclusion

Patience teaches Milton that faith matters more than actions.

Question 9:
How does On His Blindness reflect Milton’s personal faith? Provide examples from the poem.
Answer:
Introduction

The poem reveals Milton’s deep faith despite his suffering. Our textbook calls it a spiritual journey.


Argument 1
  • Milton questions God’s fairness but doesn’t reject Him.
  • He references the Parable of the Talents, showing his biblical knowledge.

Argument 2
  • His eventual surrender ("They also serve who only stand and wait") shows trust.
  • The poem ends with hope, not despair.

Conclusion

Milton’s faith triumphs over physical limitations.

Question 10:
Compare Milton’s initial despair and final acceptance in On His Blindness. What causes this change?
Answer:
Introduction

Milton moves from frustration to peace in the poem. We studied this transformation in class.


Argument 1
  • Initially, he laments his lost sight, calling his talent "useless."
  • He fears disappointing God, as seen in his questioning tone.

Argument 2
  • Patience’s intervention changes his perspective.
  • He accepts that serving God isn’t about physical work alone.

Conclusion

Divine reassurance helps Milton find purpose in patience.

Question 11:
Explain the central theme of the poem On His Blindness by John Milton and how it reflects the poet's personal struggle. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

The central theme of On His Blindness revolves around acceptance of God's will and finding purpose despite physical limitations. The poem reflects John Milton's personal struggle with his blindness and his initial frustration over his inability to serve God through his writing. However, he eventually realizes that true service to God lies in patience and faith rather than just physical or intellectual labor.

For example, the line "When I consider how my light is spent" shows Milton's despair over losing his sight. Yet, the poem concludes with the powerful idea that "They also serve who only stand and wait," emphasizing that obedience and trust in God's plan are equally valuable. This shift from doubt to acceptance highlights Milton's spiritual growth.

Additionally, the poem uses biblical allusions, such as the parable of the talents, to reinforce the theme of using one's God-given abilities wisely, even in adversity.

Question 12:
Analyze the poetic devices used in On His Blindness and their contribution to the poem's emotional impact.
Answer:

Milton employs several poetic devices in On His Blindness to deepen its emotional resonance:

  • Metaphor: The 'talent' represents Milton's creative gifts, comparing his struggle to the Biblical parable of the talents, amplifying his sense of duty and despair.
  • Personification: 'Patience' replies to Milton's doubts, giving abstract virtue a voice, which softens his frustration and offers solace.
  • Allusion: The reference to the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30) ties Milton's plight to a broader spiritual lesson, enriching the poem's depth.
  • Rhyme and Meter: The sonnet's structured iambic pentameter mirrors Milton's disciplined acceptance, while the volta (turn) in line 8 marks his shift from despair to resolution.

These devices collectively intensify the poem's emotional journey—from anguish to peaceful surrender—making Milton's message universally relatable.

Question 13:
Compare the tone of the first eight lines (octave) and the last six lines (sestet) of On His Blindness. How does this shift reflect Milton's resolution?
Answer:

The octave (first eight lines) of the poem has a tone of frustration and despair, as Milton laments his blindness and questions how he can serve God without his sight. For instance, "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?" reveals his doubt and anguish.

In contrast, the sestet (last six lines) shifts to a tone of acceptance and peace. The turning point occurs when "Patience" responds, assuring Milton that God values "his own gifts" and does not demand more than one can give. The concluding line, "They also serve who only stand and wait," underscores this resolution, emphasizing that faith and patience are themselves acts of service.

This tonal shift mirrors Milton's internal journey from doubt to spiritual clarity, highlighting the poem's message of surrendering to divine will.

Question 14:
Explain how John Milton's poem On His Blindness reflects the theme of acceptance and faith in adversity. Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

In On His Blindness, John Milton explores the theme of acceptance and faith through his personal struggle with blindness. The poem begins with Milton lamenting his loss of sight, questioning how he can serve God without his vision ('Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?'). However, he later realizes that true service to God is not about physical abilities but about patience and faith ('They also serve who only stand and wait').

Milton uses the metaphor of a 'talent' (referencing the Biblical parable) to symbolize his God-given abilities. Initially, he feels his talent is useless due to his blindness, but he eventually accepts that God does not demand productivity in suffering. Instead, faith and surrender are enough. The poem teaches that adversity can be overcome with trust in divine will, emphasizing inner strength over external capabilities.

Question 15:
Explain how John Milton's poem On His Blindness reflects the theme of acceptance and faith in God's will. Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

In On His Blindness, John Milton explores the theme of acceptance and faith in God's will through his personal struggle with blindness. The poem begins with Milton lamenting his loss of sight, questioning how he can serve God without his 'light' (vision). However, as the poem progresses, he realizes that God does not demand extraordinary deeds but values 'patience' and sincere devotion.

Milton uses the metaphor of 'talent' (a reference to the Biblical parable) to symbolize his God-given abilities. Initially, he fears his 'talent' is wasted due to his blindness, but later, he accepts that true service to God lies in faithful endurance. The line 'They also serve who only stand and wait' highlights this realization, emphasizing that obedience and trust in God's plan are more important than physical capabilities.

Thus, the poem beautifully captures Milton's journey from despair to spiritual acceptance, teaching readers the value of surrendering to divine will.

Question 16:
Analyze the use of literary devices in On His Blindness and their impact on the poem's message.
Answer:

John Milton employs several literary devices in On His Blindness to deepen its emotional and philosophical impact. The most prominent devices are:

  • Metaphor: Milton compares his lost vision to a 'light' and his abilities to a 'talent' (referencing the Biblical parable), symbolizing his struggle to serve God despite his limitations.
  • Personification: He personifies 'Patience' as a wise figure who reassures him that God values sincere devotion over grand actions, reinforcing the theme of faith.
  • Alliteration: Phrases like 'dark world and wide' create a rhythmic effect, emphasizing his despair and the vastness of his challenge.

These devices collectively enhance the poem's message of acceptance and humility, making Milton's spiritual realization more relatable and profound for readers.

Question 17:
Explain how John Milton's poem On His Blindness reflects the theme of acceptance and faith in the face of adversity. Support your answer with references from the poem.
Answer:

In On His Blindness, John Milton explores the theme of acceptance and faith as he grapples with his loss of sight. The poem begins with Milton lamenting his inability to serve God due to his blindness, asking, 'Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?' This line shows his initial frustration and despair.

However, the poem shifts to a tone of acceptance when Patience replies, 'God doth not need either man's work or His own gifts.' This highlights Milton's realization that true service to God lies in faithful endurance rather than physical labor. The concluding lines, 'They also serve who only stand and wait,' emphasize that patience and trust in God's plan are equally valuable.

Milton's journey from doubt to acceptance teaches us that adversity can be overcome through spiritual resilience and unwavering faith. The poem serves as a reminder that everyone has a purpose, even if it differs from their original expectations.

Question 18:
Analyze the use of literary devices in On His Blindness and explain how they enhance the poem's emotional impact.
Answer:

John Milton employs several literary devices in On His Blindness to deepen its emotional resonance. The poem is a Petrarchan sonnet, divided into an octave and a sestet, which mirrors Milton's shift from despair to resolution.

  • Allusion: Milton references the Biblical parable of the talents to express his fear of wasting his God-given abilities. This adds a layer of spiritual urgency to his dilemma.
  • Personification: Patience is personified as a wise figure who reassures Milton, symbolizing divine wisdom and the voice of faith.
  • Metaphor: The phrase 'light denied' metaphorically represents both his physical blindness and his spiritual struggle.

These devices amplify the poem's emotional depth, making Milton's internal conflict relatable. The structured form and rich imagery ensure the reader feels his turmoil and eventual peace, reinforcing the poem's timeless message.

Question 19:
Explain how John Milton's poem On His Blindness reflects the theme of acceptance and faith in adversity. Support your answer with examples from the poem.
Answer:

John Milton's poem On His Blindness beautifully explores the themes of acceptance and faith in the face of adversity. The poet, who became blind in middle age, initially struggles with feelings of frustration and helplessness, questioning how he can serve God without his sight. However, he eventually finds solace in the idea that God does not demand active service but values patience and faithful endurance.

For example, the line "They also serve who only stand and wait" highlights Milton's realization that even in his passive state, he can still fulfill God's will. This reflects acceptance of his condition and unwavering faith in divine justice. The poem teaches us that true service to God lies in trusting His plan, even when faced with challenges.

Question 20:
Analyze the use of imagery and metaphor in On His Blindness to convey Milton's emotional journey from despair to peace.
Answer:

In On His Blindness, Milton employs powerful imagery and metaphor to depict his emotional transformation. The poem begins with a tone of despair, as Milton compares his lost sight to a "light spent", symbolizing his fear of being useless. This imagery of darkness reflects his initial hopelessness.

However, as the poem progresses, Milton introduces the metaphor of God as a "king" who requires no forced labor but values willing devotion. The shift from darkness to the imagery of "standing and waiting" signifies his transition to inner peace. The final lines use the metaphor of heavenly "angels" who serve tirelessly, reinforcing the idea that patience is a form of service. Through these literary devices, Milton conveys his journey from anguish to spiritual acceptance.

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 On His Blindness, Milton reflects on his loss of sight. How does the poet express his initial frustration and later acceptance?
Answer:
Case Summary

Milton initially feels frustrated by his blindness, questioning God's fairness. Later, he accepts his condition as part of God's plan.

Analysis
  • Frustration: "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?" shows his doubt.
  • Acceptance: "They also serve who only stand and wait" reflects patience.
Conclusion

Our textbook shows Milton's journey from despair to faith, teaching resilience.

Question 2:
The poem On His Blindness uses the metaphor of a talent. Explain its significance in the context of the poem.
Answer:
Case Summary

The 'talent' refers to Milton's poetic gift, which he fears is wasted due to blindness.

Analysis
  • Biblical reference: Parable of Talents (Matthew 25:14-30).
  • Personal struggle: Milton worries about serving God without sight.
Conclusion

We studied how the metaphor highlights Milton's conflict between ability and disability.

Question 3:
Compare the tone of the first eight lines with the last six lines of On His Blindness. What shift does Milton show?
Answer:
Case Summary

The octave has a troubled tone, while the sestet turns calm and resolved.

Analysis
  • Octave: Words like "dark", "denied" show despair.
  • Sestet: "Patience" and "serve" reveal acceptance.
Conclusion

Our textbook explains this Petrarchan sonnet structure mirrors Milton's emotional journey.

Question 4:
The poem ends with the line: "They also serve who only stand and wait." Analyze how this reflects Milton's philosophy of service.
Answer:
Case Summary

Milton realizes service isn't just active work but also patient endurance.

Analysis
  • Example 1: A soldier waiting for orders serves his country.
  • Example 2: A student patiently learning serves their future.
Conclusion

We studied how Milton redefines service to include passive devotion.

Question 5:
In On His Blindness, Milton reflects on his loss of sight. Case Summary: He questions how he can serve God without his vision.

Q: How does Milton reconcile his physical limitation with his spiritual duty?
Answer:
Case Summary: Milton worries his blindness hinders his service to God.

Analysis:
  • He realizes God doesn’t need human work but accepts sincere effort.
  • Patience becomes his strength, as "they also serve who only stand and wait."

Conclusion:

Our textbook shows Milton shifts from despair to acceptance, teaching us resilience. Like him, we learn limitations don’t define purpose.

Question 6:
Case Summary: Milton’s poem explores the theme of acceptance amid adversity.

Q: How does the poet use the metaphor of "light" to convey his emotional struggle?
Answer:
Case Summary: Milton associates "light" with both vision and divine understanding.

Analysis:
  • His "light is spent" reflects physical blindness and spiritual doubt.
  • Later, he finds inner light through faith, like NCERT’s example of overcoming challenges.

Conclusion:

We studied how metaphors deepen meaning. Milton’s journey from darkness to hope mirrors our own struggles.

Question 7:
Case Summary: The poem contrasts human impatience and divine wisdom.

Q: Why does Milton initially feel restless, and how does he resolve it?
Answer:
Case Summary: Milton fears his talent is wasted due to blindness.

Analysis:
  • He questions God’s justice but learns patience is key.
  • Like NCERT’s lesson on trust, he accepts God’s plan.

Conclusion:

We see his growth from frustration to peace, reminding us to trust life’s process.

Question 8:
Case Summary: Milton’s sonnet structure reflects his emotional shift.

Q: How does the poem’s division into an octave and sestet mirror his change in perspective?
Answer:
Case Summary: The octave expresses doubt; the sestet offers resolution.

Analysis:
  • First 8 lines show his struggle, like our textbook’s examples of conflict.
  • Last 6 lines reveal acceptance, aligning with NCERT’s themes of growth.

Conclusion:

The structure helps us track Milton’s journey, teaching us how form supports meaning.

Question 9:
In On His Blindness, Milton reflects on his loss of sight. Case Summary: How does the poet express his initial frustration? Analysis: What does the phrase 'dark world and wide' signify?
Answer:
Case Summary:

Milton expresses frustration by questioning God about his inability to serve due to blindness. He feels useless without his sight.

Analysis:

The phrase 'dark world and wide' symbolizes his isolation and vast emptiness. Our textbook shows it highlights his despair.

Conclusion:

Milton's struggle is relatable, like when we feel helpless in tough situations.

Question 10:
Case Summary: How does Milton reconcile with his blindness later in the poem? Analysis: Explain the significance of 'They also serve who only stand and wait.'
Answer:
Case Summary:

Milton accepts his condition by realizing patience is a form of service to God.

Analysis:

The line 'They also serve...' means even inaction can be meaningful. Our textbook compares it to silent contributors in life.

Conclusion:

Like Milton, we learn that every role matters, such as supporting friends quietly.

Question 11:
Case Summary: Identify two poetic devices in On His Blindness. Analysis: How do they enhance the poem's message?
Answer:
Case Summary:
  • Metaphor: 'light spent' for lost vision
  • Alliteration: 'world and wide'
Analysis:

The metaphor emphasizes Milton's loss, while alliteration creates rhythm. Our textbook shows how devices deepen emotions.

Conclusion:

Just like in stories we read, poetic tools make themes clearer.

Question 12:
Case Summary: Why is the poem structured as a sonnet? Analysis: How does the volta (turn) reflect Milton's change in perspective?
Answer:
Case Summary:

The sonnet form suits Milton's personal struggle and resolution.

Analysis:

The volta shifts from despair to acceptance. Our textbook explains this mirrors real-life turning points, like overcoming self-doubt.

Conclusion:

Similar to our own growth, Milton's journey teaches resilience.

Question 13:

Read the following excerpt from On His Blindness by John Milton:

"When I consider how my light is spent
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide..."

Based on the poem, answer the following:

  • How does Milton express his frustration in these lines?
  • What does the phrase "dark world and wide" signify in the context of the poem?
Answer:

Milton's frustration is evident as he reflects on losing his sight ("light is spent") before reaching middle age ("Ere half my days"). He feels helpless in a world that now seems vast and obscure ("dark world and wide").

The phrase "dark world and wide" symbolizes:

  • The physical darkness Milton experiences due to blindness.
  • The emotional and spiritual isolation he feels, as the world seems expansive and unwelcoming.

This line highlights Milton's struggle to reconcile his loss with his faith, a central theme in the poem.

Question 14:

In On His Blindness, Milton writes: "They also serve who only stand and wait."

Answer the following:

  • Explain the significance of this line in the context of the poem.
  • How does this message relate to Milton's personal struggle with blindness?
Answer:

The line "They also serve who only stand and wait" conveys that patience and acceptance are forms of service to God. Milton realizes that even if he cannot actively write or work due to his blindness, his faith and willingness to endure are valuable.

In relation to his struggle:

  • Milton initially feels useless but later understands that "standing and waiting" (accepting his condition) is a form of devotion.
  • This reflects his shift from despair to spiritual resolution, emphasizing trust in divine will.

The line is a powerful conclusion, showing Milton's growth and the poem's theme of finding purpose in adversity.

Question 15:

Read the following extract from On His Blindness and answer the question that follows:

"When I consider how my light is spent,
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide,
And that one talent which is death to hide
Lodged with me useless..."

Question: How does the poet express his inner conflict in these lines? What does the phrase 'talent which is death to hide' signify in the context of the poem?

Answer:

The poet, John Milton, expresses his inner conflict through the frustration of losing his eyesight ('light is spent') and feeling unable to use his God-given talent ('one talent'). The phrase 'talent which is death to hide' refers to the Biblical parable of talents, where servants are judged for how they use their gifts. Here, Milton fears that his inability to write due to blindness is like 'hiding' his talent, which would be a moral failure.

Key Points:

  • The poet feels helpless as his blindness restricts his creative abilities.
  • The 'talent' symbolizes his literary skill, which he believes is a divine gift.
  • Milton's anxiety stems from his belief that not using his talent is a sin.

This reflects the theme of acceptance and faith in God's plan, which Milton later realizes in the poem.

Question 16:

In On His Blindness, Milton writes: "They also serve who only stand and wait." Question: Explain how this line conveys the poem's central message. How does it relate to Milton's personal struggle with blindness?

Answer:

The line "They also serve who only stand and wait" is the resolution of Milton's earlier despair. It conveys that true service to God isn't just about active work but also about patience and acceptance of one's circumstances. Milton realizes that even in his blindness (his inability to 'act'), he can serve by trusting God's plan.

This relates to his personal struggle as he transitions from frustration ('Lodged with me useless') to spiritual peace. The message is universal: everyone has a role, whether active or passive, and waiting with faith is itself a form of service. This reflects Milton's growth from doubt to submission to divine will.

Question 17:

In On His Blindness, Milton reflects on his physical limitation and spiritual dilemma. Based on the poem, answer the following:

Question: How does the poet's perspective shift from despair to acceptance by the end of the poem? Explain with reference to the text.

Answer:

Initially, Milton is in despair over his blindness, fearing he cannot serve God effectively. However, by the end, he accepts his condition through the realization that God does not demand productivity but 'patience' and faith.

Shift in Perspective:

  • Despair: "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?" – He questions why God would take his sight if He expects work.
  • Acceptance: "They also serve who only stand and wait." – Milton understands that even passive devotion has value.

The poem highlights Milton's journey from doubt to spiritual reassurance, emphasizing that true service to God is about willingness, not just action.

Question 18:

Read the following extract from On His Blindness and answer the question that follows:

"When I consider how my light is spent
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide..."

Question: How does the poet, John Milton, express his initial reaction to his blindness in these lines? What literary device is used here to convey his emotions?

Answer:

The poet, John Milton, expresses his initial reaction to his blindness with a sense of despair and frustration. The phrase "how my light is spent" metaphorically refers to his lost eyesight, symbolizing the loss of his ability to see and, metaphorically, his productivity. The line "Ere half my days in this dark world and wide" suggests that he feels his blindness has come too early in his life, leaving him in a state of darkness.


The literary device used here is metaphor, as Milton compares his lost eyesight to spent light. Additionally, the phrase "dark world and wide" uses alliteration to emphasize the vastness and emptiness he feels due to his blindness.


This emotional expression sets the tone for the poem, where Milton later reconciles with his condition through faith and acceptance.

Question 19:

In On His Blindness, Milton reflects on his inability to serve God due to his blindness. Based on the poem, answer the following:

Question: How does Milton reconcile his physical limitation with his desire to serve God? What lesson does this convey about patience and faith?

Answer:

Milton reconciles his physical limitation by realizing that God does not demand extraordinary works but accepts sincere devotion. The line "They also serve who only stand and wait" highlights that even in stillness or inability, one can serve God through patience and faith. This conveys the lesson that true service is not about grand actions but about acceptance and trust in God's plan.

  • Milton shifts from despair to understanding that God values "mild yoke"—a humble and willing heart.
  • The poem teaches that challenges like blindness can be overcome with spiritual strength rather than physical ability.

Question 20:

In On His Blindness, John Milton reflects on his physical limitation and its impact on his life. Based on the poem, answer the following:

Question: How does the poet's perspective shift from the beginning to the end of the poem? Explain with reference to the central theme of the poem.

Answer:

At the beginning of the poem, Milton's perspective is one of sorrow and questioning. He laments his blindness, feeling that it has rendered him useless in serving God, as seen in lines like "Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?". This reflects his initial struggle with his condition.


However, by the end of the poem, his perspective shifts to one of acceptance and faith. The turning point comes with the realization that "They also serve who only stand and wait". Here, Milton understands that even in his passive state, he can still serve God through patience and faith.


The central theme of the poem is acceptance and divine will. Milton moves from despair to a recognition that true service to God does not depend on physical abilities but on one's willingness to submit to God's plan. This shift highlights the poem's moral and spiritual message.

Chat on WhatsApp