Class 10 Exam  >  Class 10 Notes  >  English Class 10  >  Short Answer Questions: The Proposal

Class 10 English Chapter 1 Question Answers - First Flight

Q1. What do you think would have been Chubukov’s reaction on hearing the reason why Lomov had come to his house?
Ans: When Chubukov learned that Lomov had come to ask for Natalya's hand in marriage, he was filled with joy. He embraced and kissed Lomov, expressing that he had been hoping for this moment for a long time. Chubukov conveyed his deep affection for Lomov, stating that he had always loved him as if he were his own son.


Q2. What justification did Lomov give to Natalya and Chubukov to prove that he is the rightful owner of Meadows?
Ans: Lomov argued that his aunt's grandmother granted the Meadows for the temporary and free use of Chubukov's grandfather's peasants. He claimed that this arrangement established him as the rightful owner of the open meadows.


Q3. There is a certain way in which the characters speak in the play The Proposal. What does it tell us about the Russian men?
Ans: The dialogue in The Proposal reveals much about Russian men. Firstly, they are very particular about their clothing, often wearing specific outfits for special occasions. This attention to dress highlights their cultural values. Additionally, the characters display a level of hypocrisy. They may appear friendly, but they quickly resort to fighting, indicating underlying grudges. Their behaviour suggests that they are stubborn, short-tempered, and quarrelsome, often prioritising their pets over others. 


Q4. Describe, in brief, the character of Natalya as sketched in the chapter of the proposal.
Ans: Natalya is a 25-year-old woman and the daughter of Chubukov. She is a capable housekeeper, attractive, and well-educated. Despite her outward qualities, she has a secret affection for Lomov. However, she is also characterised by her greed, short-sightedness, and a quick temper.


Q5. Lomov went to Chubukov’s house and sought permission so that he could trouble him with a request. What is the trouble that he is talking about?
Ans: Lomov visited Chubukov's house to request the hand of his daughter, Natalya, in marriage. This request is the "trouble" he mentioned.

Class 10 English Chapter 1 Question Answers - First Flight

Q6. Natalya was not Lomov’s real love. But still, he wanted to marry her. Give two reasons for his decision.
Ans: Lomov's desire to marry Natalya stemmed from two main reasons. Firstly, he was experiencing health issues, specifically a weak heart and sleep problems, which made him feel vulnerable. He sought a companion who could provide care and support during these challenging times. Secondly, at the age of 35, he felt it was crucial to settle down and lead a more stable life, as he believed that marrying would help him achieve a sense of normalcy and peace.


Q7. Lomov calls himself a ‘land grabber’. Justify the statement in about 20-25 words.
Ans: Lomov is called a ‘land grabber’ by Natalya because they dispute the ownership of Oxen Meadows. While Natalya accuses him of claiming her land, Lomov insists he has never taken anyone else's property.


Q8. How and why did Lomov come to meet the Chubukov family?
Ans: Lomov arrived at the Chubukov household dressed formally in an evening jacket and white gloves. He came to propose to Natalya, Chubukov's daughter, as he wished to marry her.


Q9. How can you say that Natalya was not convinced that Oxen Meadows was owned by Lomov?
Ans: Natalya was not convinced that Oxen Meadows belonged to Lomov because she insisted that her family had owned the land for nearly 300 years. She found it both surprising and ridiculous that someone else would claim it as their own. Additionally, Chubukov supported her view during the argument.


Q10. What did Natalya say about Guess?
Ans: Natalya claimed that Squeezer was far superior to Guess, Lomov's dog. She argued that Guess was old and should be put down, stating that Squeezer was a hundred times better. Natalya insisted that Squeezer was a thoroughbred, while she considered Guess to be ugly and worn out, likening him to a cab-horse.


Q11. What does Chubukov at first suspect that Lomov has come for?
Ans: Upon seeing Lomov dressed in formal evening attire, Chubukov initially suspects that he has come to borrow money. Although he decides not to lend him any, he engages in conversation with him in a polite manner.


Q12. What is the ailment that Lomov is suffering from?
Ans: Lomov is a 35-year-old man who is experiencing health issues. He suffers from a weak heart and a condition known as sleep sickness, which causes him significant distress. His health concerns make him feel that it is essential to lead a quiet and regular life. In light of his ailments, he desires to find a companion to care for him, prompting his wish to get married.


Q13. Describe Lomov’s first meeting with Natalya.
Ans: Lomov visits his neighbour Chubukov to propose to his daughter, Natalya. Nervous and unsure, he struggles to express his intentions clearly. He begins by discussing his meadows, which he claims border their birchwoods. This leads to a heated argument between them over the ownership of the meadows, overshadowing the proposal itself.


Q14. What kind of a man is Lomov?
Ans: Lomov is a thirty-five-year-old man who is quite a comical character. He visits Natalya to propose but becomes so nervous and excitable that he ends up arguing with her over trivial matters, preventing him from making the proposal. Lomov lacks confidence and self-control, and he also suffers from epileptic fits.


Q15. Who is the heroine of the play?
Ans: Natalya is the heroine of the play 'The Proposal'. At twenty-five years old, she remains unmarried, which greatly worries her father. Natalya desires someone to love her and propose. Her father describes her as a love-sick cat.


Q16. Why does the proposal remain unmade during Lomov’s first visit?
Ans: The proposal remains unmade during Lomov's first visit because he is very nervous and excitable. Instead of getting straight to the point, he beats around the bush. When Natalya arrives, Lomov starts to argue with her over a piece of land, which makes him even more agitated. In his excitement, he leaves the room, cursing and threatening both Natalya and her father, Chubukov, completely forgetting about the proposal.


Q17. Why is Natalya so anxious to marry Lomov?
Ans: Natalya is anxious to marry Lomov because she feels that, as an unattractive middle-aged woman, he is one of the few who would consider her. Upon learning that he has come to propose, she becomes emotional and insists that her father bring him back, demonstrating her desperation for the marriage.


Q18. How does Chubukov join the quarrel between Natalya and Lomov?
Ans: Chubukov enters to find Natalya and Lomov in a heated argument. Upon learning they are disputing the ownership of the Oxen Meadows, he becomes furious as well. Rather than calming the situation, Chubukov joins the quarrel, asserting his claim over the Meadows. He insults both Lomov and his ancestors, escalating the conflict instead of resolving it.


Q19. What is the cause of the second quarrel between Natalya and Lomov?
Ans: Lomov begins by praising his dog, Guess, but Natalya insists that her dog, Squeezer, which she bought for 85 roubles, is far superior. This leads to a heated argument as both defend their dogs' qualities. The discussion escalates into shouting, with each insisting that their dog is better, causing further tension between them.


Q20. Why was Lomov brought back by Chubukov?
Ans: Chubukov was initially surprised by Lomov's audacity to propose marriage. Natalya, however, was taken aback and insisted that her father bring Lomov back. Reluctantly, Chubukov hurried out to invite Lomov to return, and Lomov agreed to come back.


Q21. How does Lomov behave when he is excited?
Ans: When Lomov becomes excited, he experiences several physical reactions. His heart begins to palpitate, and his right eyebrow starts to twitch. Additionally, he feels a sensation in his foot as if it has gone to sleep. In the play, his excitement escalates to the point where he faints.


Q22. Who are Lomov and Chubukov, and how are they related to each other?
Ans: Lomov and Chubukov are both landlords and neighbours. Lomov often seeks help from Chubukov, who has assisted him in the past. They are currently in a dispute over the ownership of Oxen Meadows, with each claiming the land belongs to him. Additionally, Lomov wishes to marry Chubukov's daughter, Natalya, whom he considers a suitable match.


Q23. Why does Lomov come to Chubukov? How does Chubukov react to his visit?
Ans: Lomov, a landlord, visits Chubukov with a clear intention: he wants to propose marriage to Natalya, whom he sees as a good housekeeper and attractive. Initially, Chubukov misinterprets Lomov's visit, thinking he has come to borrow money. However, when he realises that Lomov is there to propose, he becomes overjoyed and excited about the prospect of the marriage.


Q24. Why does Lomov think that he should not be alone but marry a suitable woman like Natalya?
Ans: Lomov, a thirty-five-year-old man, believes he is at a critical age where he should consider a peaceful and regular married life. He sees Natalya, the daughter of his wealthy neighbour Chubukov, as a suitable partner. Lomov appreciates Natalya's qualities, noting that she is an excellent housekeeper, well-educated, and attractive. These traits make her an ideal choice for marriage in his view.


Q25. How does Lomov speak warmly of Chubukov’s family in the beginning? Why does he change his stand?
Ans: Lomov initially speaks warmly about Chubukov's family, recalling his long-standing relationship with them. He mentions that his late aunt and uncle held great respect for Chubukov's family, highlighting their history as friendly and close neighbours. However, his tone shifts dramatically when a dispute arises over the ownership of Oxen Meadows. This quarrel leads him to change his perception of the Chubukovs, revealing the fragility of their relationship.

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FAQs on Class 10 English Chapter 1 Question Answers - First Flight

1. What is the central theme of "The Proposal"?
Ans. The central theme of "The Proposal" revolves around love, marriage, and the comedic aspects of relationships. It explores how misunderstandings and social expectations can complicate romantic intentions, ultimately leading to humorous situations.
2. Who are the main characters in "The Proposal"?
Ans. The main characters in "The Proposal" are Lomov, a nervous and anxious landowner, and Natalya, a strong-willed and assertive woman. Their interactions, filled with comedic misunderstandings and arguments, serve as the backbone of the play's humor and plot.
3. How does the playwright use humor in "The Proposal"?
Ans. The playwright uses humor in "The Proposal" primarily through witty dialogue, absurd situations, and exaggerated character traits. The misunderstandings between Lomov and Natalya, especially their bickering over trivial matters, create a comedic atmosphere that highlights the absurdity of their courtship.
4. What role do misunderstandings play in the plot of "The Proposal"?
Ans. Misunderstandings play a crucial role in the plot of "The Proposal." They drive the comedic tension between characters, as Lomov and Natalya misinterpret each other’s intentions and words, leading to humorous conflicts. These misunderstandings ultimately reflect the complexities of love and communication in relationships.
5. What message does "The Proposal" convey about marriage?
Ans. "The Proposal" conveys that marriage can often be a tumultuous journey filled with misunderstandings, but it also emphasizes the importance of communication and humor in overcoming challenges. The play suggests that love and companionship can emerge from even the most chaotic situations, making it a lighthearted yet insightful commentary on relationships.
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