Textbook Solutions: The Ballad of Mulan | Class 7 English Oxford PDF Download

Poem appreciation

1. Complete the summary of the poem by filling In suitable words or phrases.
Ans:
Mulan sat [facing the door] and weaving in her room because she was concerned for her father. The previous night there was an order issued by the [Khan/King of the central]. Each of the twelve scrolls carried [Mulan's father's name]. He had been asked to join the army as he did not have a [son]. Mulan decided to take his [place]. She bought a [spirited horse] in the East Market; a [saddle] in the West Market; a [long whip, braddle] in the South Market and a [long knife] in the North Market. After leaving her place, she camped on the bank of the [yellow river]. The next evening she arrived at the [black mountain].
The [general/commander] died in the war but after a ten-year battle, they won. On their return, the King rewarded his soldiers at his [court/palace].
Mulan was not interested in the post of a [minister]. All she wished for was [to go back to her home]. Mulan's parents went to greet her [tears streaming down their faces]. Her sister [fixed her makeup] to welcome her while her brother [went to the market] to prepare for the feast. Mulan took off her [soldier's armor/garments] and dressed like a woman. Her [comrades] were surprised because the brave soldier they had known for twelve years was a [girl/woman].

2.
Ans: This poem is a 'ballad'. Ballads are poems that narrate a story. It is often of folk origin and intended to be sung. I haven't heard any other ballads, but I'd love to hear if any of my classmates have heard one and share their thoughts.

3.
Ans: Words such as 'tsiek tsiek' imitate the sounds associated with the objects or actions they refer to. These words are called onomatopoeic words. Here are two more examples: buzz (like a bee), hiss (like a snake).