The Proposal Question Answer | Class 12 (WBCHSE)
Table of Contents
The Proposal Question Answer
2016
1. Why did Lomov think about taking a decision about getting married? Whom did he want to marry? Why? (3+1+2)
Why did Lomov decide to get married?
- Lomov decided to get married because he was 35 years old, and he believed it was time to settle down. He also thought that marriage would help him live a more regular and stable life. Moreover, Lomov suffered from health problems, and he believed having a wife would be beneficial for him.
Whom did he want to marry?
- He wanted to marry Natalya Stepanovna.
Why did he want to marry Natalya?
- He wanted to marry Natalya because she was an excellent housekeeper, not bad-looking, and well-educated. Lomov thought she would be a good wife and help him manage his estate.
2. Describe the character of Chubukov as a sensible father. (6)
Chubukov is portrayed as a practical and caring father in the play:
Protective: Chubukov is concerned about his daughter’s future and is eager to see her well-settled. He is happy about Lomov’s proposal because he believes Lomov would be a suitable husband for Natalya.
Practical: Chubukov understands the social and economic benefits of the marriage between Lomov and Natalya and encourages the match, knowing it would be advantageous for both families.
Mediator: He acts as a mediator during the arguments between Lomov and Natalya, trying to calm them down and resolve their disputes.
Supportive: Chubukov supports Natalya when she insists that the land belongs to them and stands by her during the argument with Lomov.
Forgiving: Despite getting angry during the arguments, Chubukov is quick to reconcile and encourages Natalya to make peace with Lomov.
Concerned: He is genuinely concerned for Natalya’s happiness and well-being, which is evident when he rushes to bring Lomov back after realizing his daughter’s feelings for him.
3. “Forgive us Ivan Vassilevitch, we were all a little heated.” (1+1+2+2)
Who is the speaker?
- The speaker is Chubukov.
Who are referred to by ‘us’?
- ‘Us’ refers to Chubukov, his daughter Natalya, and Lomov.
Why were the persons referred to as ‘a little heated’?
- They were ‘a little heated’ because they got into a fierce argument about the ownership of the Oxen Meadows, which led to raised tempers and harsh words.
Why does the speaker ask for forgiveness?
- The speaker asks for forgiveness because he wants to smooth things over after the argument. He understands that the dispute was trivial and wants to mend the relationship, especially considering Lomov’s marriage proposal to Natalya.
2017
1. “If you like, I’ll make you a present of them.” (1+1+1+3)
Who is the speaker?
- The speaker is Lomov.
Who is the person spoken to?
- The person spoken to is Natalya.
What would the speaker make a present of?
- The speaker offers to make a present of the Oxen Meadows.
Why did the speaker say so?
- Lomov says this sarcastically during their argument over the ownership of the Oxen Meadows. He is frustrated by the dispute and, in a moment of exasperation, offers to gift the meadows to Natalya, even though he believes they belong to him.
2. “She’s like a ‘love-sick cat” (1+1+4)
Who said this and about whom?
- Chubukov said this about his daughter Natalya.
Analyze the character of the person referred to here under the light of the comment above.
- Natalya: She is portrayed as a strong-willed and spirited young woman. Her father’s comment about her being like a “love-sick cat” suggests she is deeply infatuated with Lomov but is unable to express her feelings directly. This comment highlights her vulnerability and desire for love, as well as her emotional nature. Despite being argumentative and stubborn during disputes, she genuinely wants to reconcile with Lomov when she realizes his true intentions. Natalya is depicted as a complex character with a mixture of pride, passion, and a longing for love.
7. Sketch the character of Natalya. (6)
Natalya Stepanovna is a central character in The Proposal:
Strong-willed: Natalya is assertive and not afraid to speak her mind, especially during arguments with Lomov over land and dogs.
Prideful: She takes great pride in her family’s possessions and heritage, leading to heated disputes with Lomov about their claims.
Emotional: Despite her strong exterior, Natalya is sensitive and emotional, especially when she learns about Lomov’s marriage proposal.
Intelligent: Natalya is well-educated and practical, as noted by Lomov when considering her as a potential wife.
Persistent: She is persistent in her arguments, unwilling to back down easily, which shows her determination and stubborn nature.
Romantic: Natalya has a romantic side, evident when she becomes distressed upon realizing Lomov’s intention to propose and is eager to make amends to ensure he returns.
2018
1. “We’ve had the land for nearly three hundred years.” (1+1+1+3)
Who is the speaker?
- The speaker is Natalya Stepanovna.
Who is spoken to?
- Natalya is speaking to Lomov.
What is referred to as the land?
- The land referred to is the Oxen Meadows.
What do you know of the land from their conversation?
- From their conversation, we learn that the Oxen Meadows is a disputed piece of land located between their properties. Natalya claims her family has owned it for nearly three hundred years, while Lomov insists it belongs to him. The argument over the land showcases their stubbornness and pride, as both families are determined to assert their ownership.
2. Give a brief sketch of the character of Lomov in the play ‘The Proposal’. (6)
Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov is a comical yet sympathetic character in The Proposal:
Nervous and Hypochondriac: Lomov is constantly worried about his health and suffers from anxiety, which is evident in his frequent complaints about palpitations and other ailments.
Indecisive: He struggles with expressing his feelings and intentions, especially when it comes to proposing to Natalya.
Prideful: Like Natalya, Lomov is proud of his property and status, leading to arguments over trivial matters like land ownership and dogs.
Timid yet Determined: Despite his nervousness, Lomov is determined to marry Natalya, believing it to be a practical decision for his future.
Sarcastic: During arguments, he often resorts to sarcasm, especially when frustrated, as seen in his offer to “make a present” of the Oxen Meadows.
Traditional: Lomov adheres to traditional values, seeking marriage as a means of achieving stability and social standing.
3. “Go; there’s a merchant came for his goods.”— (2+1+1+2)
Who said this and to whom?
- Chubukov said this to his servant.
Who is ‘the merchant’?
- ‘The merchant’ refers to Lomov.
What is referred to as ‘goods’?
- ‘Goods’ refers to Lomov’s intention to propose to Natalya.
In what way does it bring out the attitude of the person and the society at that time?
- This remark shows Chubukov’s frustration and sarcasm during the heated argument. It reflects the attitude of seeing marriage as a transaction or business deal, highlighting the societal view of marriage as a means to secure financial and social stability. It underscores the practical and transactional nature of marriage in their society, where romantic feelings are secondary to property and social considerations.
2019
1. “Why are you so formal in your get up?”- (1+1+4)
Who is the speaker?
- The speaker is Natalya Stepanovna.
Who is being spoken to?
- Natalya is speaking to Lomov.
What led the speaker to make this comment?
- Natalya makes this comment because she notices Lomov is dressed in formal attire, which is unusual for a casual visit. She is curious about the reason for his formal appearance, as it hints at his intention to propose. Lomov’s nervousness and formal dress lead Natalya to question him, unaware initially of his proposal plan. This highlights her curiosity and sets the stage for the ensuing misunderstandings and arguments.
2. Lomov came with a proposal to marry Natalya Stepanovna. What logic does he give for his decision? (6)
Lomov provides several logical reasons for his decision to marry Natalya:
Age and Stability: Lomov believes that at 35 years old, it is time for him to settle down and lead a more stable life.
Health Concerns: He mentions his various health issues, thinking that having a wife would help him manage his life better and provide care.
Practical Match: He sees Natalya as a suitable match because she is an excellent housekeeper, educated, and not bad-looking, which would make her an ideal wife.
Social Expectations: Lomov feels societal pressure to get married and fulfill the expectations of being a landowner with a family.
Economic Benefit: The marriage would be economically advantageous, as it would unite two neighboring estates, ensuring peace and cooperation between the families.
Desire for Companionship: Lomov longs for companionship and believes marriage will provide him with the support and partnership he needs in life.
3. “I’m the most unhappy of men”- (1+3+2)
Who said this?
- Lomov said this.
Why did he say so?
- Lomov says this because he is frustrated and anxious after the argument with Natalya over the Oxen Meadows. His health issues and nervousness exacerbate his feelings of unhappiness, and he is distressed over the failed marriage proposal.
How did the speaker get rid of his unhappiness?
- Lomov’s unhappiness is resolved when Chubukov convinces him to return to Natalya, and she accepts his proposal. The resolution of their misunderstandings and the agreement to marry bring him relief and happiness.
2020
1. “And it’s impossible for me not to marry.” (3+1+2)
Why is the speaker so interested to marry?
- The speaker, Lomov, is interested in marrying because he believes it is essential for his social standing and stability. He also wants companionship and believes marriage will help manage his health issues by providing support and care.
Whom does he want to marry?
- He wants to marry Natalya Stepanovna.
Why?
- He wants to marry Natalya because she is a good housekeeper, well-educated, and from a respectable family. He thinks she would be a suitable and practical choice for a wife.
2. “I’ve been hoping for it for a long time.”- (1+1+1+3)
Who is the speaker?
- The speaker is Natalya Stepanovna.
What does ‘it refer to?
- ‘It’ refers to Lomov’s marriage proposal.
How did the speaker come to know about ‘it?
- Natalya learns about ‘it’ from her father, Chubukov, who tells her that Lomov came to propose.
What more did the speaker say in this context?
- In this context, Natalya expresses her eagerness and excitement upon learning of Lomov’s intention to propose. She is upset that the opportunity seemed lost after their argument and insists on bringing Lomov back to accept his proposal. This shows her romantic interest and desire to marry Lomov.
3. “Bring him back! Back! Ah! Bring him here.”- (1+1+2+2)
Who says this and to whom?
- Natalya says this to her father, Chubukov.
When is this said?
- This is said after Natalya discovers that Lomov had come to propose to her, and she realizes her feelings for him.
What impression of the speaker can be formed from this remark?
- From this remark, we see that Natalya is impulsive and emotional. She quickly regrets the argument and is desperate to mend the situation. It shows her determination to seize the opportunity for marriage and her underlying romantic feelings for Lomov. Natalya’s urgency and insistence highlight her passionate and somewhat anxious nature.
2021
No exam due to Covid-19
2022
1. “I’m the most unhappy of men!” (1+3+2)
Who said this?
- This was said by Lomov.
Why did he say so?
- Lomov said this because he was extremely frustrated and anxious after his argument with Natalya over the Oxen Meadows.
- He was distressed because his visit, intended to propose marriage to Natalya, had turned into a heated dispute, causing him emotional turmoil.
- His health problems, including palpitations and nervousness, exacerbated his feelings of unhappiness and despair.
How did the speaker get rid of his unhappiness?
- Lomov’s unhappiness was alleviated when Chubukov convinced him to return to Natalya.
- Upon returning, Natalya expressed her willingness to marry him, and their engagement was finalized, which brought him relief and happiness.
2. “Why are you so formal in your get-up?” (1+1+4)
Who is the speaker?
- The speaker is Natalya Stepanovna.
Who is being spoken to?
- She is speaking to Lomov.
What led the speaker to make this comment?
- Natalya noticed Lomov was dressed formally, which was unusual for a casual visit.
- She was curious and puzzled because his formal attire suggested a special occasion or purpose.
- At that moment, she was unaware of Lomov’s intention to propose, so she asked about his appearance.
- This question foreshadowed Lomov’s proposal, setting the stage for the misunderstandings and arguments that followed.
3. Give a brief sketch of the character of Lomov in the play ‘The Proposal’. (6)
Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov is a comical and sympathetic character in The Proposal:
Nervous and Hypochondriac: Lomov frequently worries about his health, suffering from palpitations, insomnia, and nervousness, which adds a humorous element to his character.
Indecisive: He struggles with expressing his feelings and intentions, especially regarding his proposal to Natalya. His indecisiveness often leads to misunderstandings and delays.
Prideful: Like Natalya, Lomov is proud of his property and status. His pride causes arguments over trivial matters such as the ownership of the Oxen Meadows and the quality of their dogs.
Traditional: Lomov adheres to traditional values and sees marriage as a means to achieve social stability and respectability.
Sincere: Despite his nervousness, Lomov genuinely desires to marry Natalya and sees her as a suitable partner for managing his estate and life.
Sarcastic: During disputes, Lomov often resorts to sarcasm, especially when frustrated, which highlights his emotional complexity and inability to handle conflicts gracefully.
2023
Multiple Choice Questions
Lomov bought his dog, Guess, from: (a) Chiranova (c) Chubukov (b) Mironov (d) Natalya.
- (b) Mironov.
Natalya claimed that Guess was like a: (a) stallion (b) buffalo (c) mule (d) cab horse.
- (d) cab horse.
Chubukov tells Natalya that someone has come in their drawing room who is: (a) a farmer (b) a land owner (c) a merchant (d) a hawker.
- (b) a landowner.
“What a weight off my shoulders.” – The weight refers to: (a) Lomov (b) Guess (c) Squeezer (d) Natalya.
- (a) Lomov.
1. “I’ve come to you, honoured Stepan Stepanovitch, to trouble you with a request.” (1+2+1+2)
Who has come to Chubukov with a request?
- Ivan Vassilevitch Lomov has come to Chubukov with a request.
What does Chubukov assume about the purpose of his visit?
- Chubukov assumes that Lomov has come to discuss a financial matter or some business-related issue.
- He initially does not realize that Lomov intends to propose marriage to his daughter, Natalya.
What was the request?
- The request was Lomov’s proposal to marry Chubukov’s daughter, Natalya Stepanovna.
How does Chubukov react to that request?
- Chubukov is delighted and enthusiastic about the proposal, seeing it as a favorable match for his daughter.
- He immediately gives his blessing and encourages Lomov to propose to Natalya.
2. “Oxen Meadows, it’s true, were once the subject of dispute, but now everybody knows that they are mine.” (1+1+2+2)
Who is the speaker?
- The speaker is Lomov.
Who is spoken to?
- Lomov is speaking to Natalya Stepanovna.
What information did the speaker give to establish the ownership of Oxen Meadows?
- Lomov claims that his aunt’s grandmother gave the meadows to the Lomov family.
- He insists that it was a long-settled matter and that the meadows rightfully belong to him.
What did the person spoken to say in response to the speaker’s argument?
- Natalya disputes Lomov’s claim, asserting that the meadows belong to her family and have been considered theirs for generations.
- She argues that her family has always regarded the land as their own and will not relinquish ownership.
Sketch the character of Natalya Stepanovna (6)
Natalya Stepanovna is a complex and spirited character in The Proposal:
Strong-willed: Natalya is assertive and unafraid to express her opinions, especially during arguments with Lomov over land and dogs.
Prideful: She takes pride in her family’s possessions and heritage, leading to heated disputes with Lomov about their claims.
Emotional: Despite her strong exterior, Natalya is sensitive and emotional, especially when she learns about Lomov’s marriage proposal.
Intelligent: Natalya is well-educated and practical, as noted by Lomov when considering her as a potential wife.
Persistent: She is persistent in her arguments, unwilling to back down easily, which shows her determination and stubborn nature.
Romantic: Natalya has a romantic side, evident when she becomes distressed upon realizing Lomov’s intention to propose and is eager to make amends to ensure he returns.
2024
Multiple Choice Questions
The setting of the play ‘The Proposal’ is: (a) Chubukov’s garden (b) Lomov’s drawing room (c) Chubukov’s drawing room (d) Lomov’s garden.
- (c) Chubukov’s drawing room.
Natalya lived: (a) alone (b) with her parents (c) with her mother (d) with her father.
- (d) with her father.
Lomov was _______ years old: (a) twenty five (b) thirty (c) thirty five (d) forty.
- (c) thirty-five.
The piece of land that Lomov and Natalya quarreled over was: (a) Oxen Meadows (b) Lomov’s farm (c) Birch woods (d) Burnt March.
- (a) Oxen Meadows.
1. Why has Lomov come to visit Chubukov? How was Lomov dressed? How does Chubukov react to Lomov’s proposal? How far was Natalya aware of the reason for Lomov’s arrival? (1+2+2+1)
Why has Lomov come to visit Chubukov?
- Lomov has come to visit Chubukov to propose marriage to his daughter, Natalya Stepanovna.
How was Lomov dressed?
- Lomov was dressed formally, wearing a tailcoat and white gloves, which indicated his intention to make a significant proposal.
How does Chubukov react to Lomov’s proposal?
- Chubukov is pleased and enthusiastic about Lomov’s proposal, considering it a favorable match for his daughter.
- He quickly gives his blessing and encourages Lomov to propose to Natalya, seeing the union as beneficial for both families.
How far was Natalya aware of the reason for Lomov’s arrival?
- Initially, Natalya is unaware of Lomov’s intention to propose. She only becomes aware of it after Lomov leaves and her father tells her about his purpose.
2. What are the names of the hunting dogs of Lomov and Chubukov? From whom has Lomov purchased his dog and at what price? According to Lomov, what defect does Chubukov’s dog have? (2+2+2)
What are the names of the hunting dogs of Lomov and Chubukov?
- Lomov’s dog is named Guess.
- Chubukov’s dog is named Squeezer.
From whom has Lomov purchased his dog and at what price?
- Lomov purchased his dog, Guess, from Mironov for 125 roubles.
According to Lomov, what defect does Chubukov’s dog have?
- According to Lomov, Chubukov’s dog, Squeezer, is overshot, meaning its lower jaw is shorter than the upper jaw, which he considers a defect affecting the dog’s hunting abilities.
3. “Oh, what a burden, Lord, to be the father of a grown-up daughter!” (1+5)
Who is the speaker?
- The speaker is Stepan Stepanovitch Chubukov.
Sketch the character of the speaker in light of the above comment.
- Chubukov is portrayed as a practical and caring father who is concerned about his daughter’s future and eager to see her well-settled. He desires Natalya to be happily married and recognizes the social and economic benefits of her union with Lomov.
- Chubukov is also depicted as a mediator and a peacemaker, attempting to calm the heated disputes between Lomov and Natalya and urging them to reconcile.
- His comment reveals his frustration with the responsibilities of parenthood and his wish for Natalya to find a suitable match, highlighting the societal pressures on parents to marry off their children.
- Chubukov is also shown to be slightly comical and exasperated, as he humorously laments the challenges of dealing with Natalya’s headstrong nature and Lomov’s nervous temperament.
- Despite his frustrations, Chubukov cares deeply for his daughter and is willing to navigate the complexities of family dynamics to ensure her happiness.
