Worksheet Solutions: The Interview | English Class 12 PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks

Q1: Interviews have been a common practice in journalism for over __________ years.
Ans: 130 years.
Interviews have been a prevalent method in journalism for more than a century, facilitating information gathering and insights.

Q2: According to the chapter, some people highly regard interviews while others find them __________.
Ans: dreadful.
The chapter illustrates the diverse opinions people hold about interviews, ranging from high regard to strong aversion.

Q3: Rudyard Kipling's wife expressed her disdain for interviews in her diary after being interviewed by reporters in __________.
Ans: Boston.
Kipling's wife recorded her negative experience with interviews in Boston, reflecting the negative impact they had on her.

Q4: Umberto Eco is known for his expertise in __________, literary interpretation, and medieval aesthetics.
Ans: semiotics.
Eco is renowned for his knowledge in semiotics, the study of signs and symbols, as well as literary interpretation and medieval aesthetics.

Q5: Eco classifies himself as an __________ scholar who writes novels on Sundays.
Ans: academic.
Eco identifies primarily as an academic scholar, engaging in intellectual pursuits, and dedicating Sundays to his novel writing.

Q6: Eco believes that our lives have empty spaces called __________, where he does most of his productive work.
Ans: interstices.
Eco refers to interstices as empty spaces in life where he achieves significant productivity, emphasizing their importance in his creative process.

Q7: In the interview, Eco discusses his successful novel, __________, which sold over 10 million copies.
Ans: The Name of the Rose.
Eco talks about his bestselling novel, The Name of the Rose, highlighting its remarkable sales of over 10 million copies.

Q8: Eco mentions that his novel, The Name of the Rose, combines elements of detective fiction, metaphysics, theology, and __________.
Ans: medieval history.
Eco's novel, The Name of the Rose, integrates various genres, including detective fiction, metaphysics, theology, and medieval history, creating a rich narrative.

Q9: Eco states that the success of his novel remains a __________ to him.
Ans: mystery.
Despite the popularity of The Name of the Rose, Eco finds its success puzzling and unexplainable, emphasizing the enigmatic nature of its reception.

Q10: According to the chapter, Kipling believes that no __________ person asks for or gives an interview.
Ans: respectable.
Kipling holds the opinion that individuals of respectability neither seek nor participate in interviews, highlighting his critical view of this practice.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: Kipling's wife considered interviews as an assault.
Reason: The reporters in Boston asked intrusive questions.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
Kipling's wife considered interviews as an assault because the reporters in Boston asked intrusive questions. The reason (intrusive questions) explains why she viewed interviews in a negative light, justifying the assertion.

Q2: Assertion: Eco classifies himself as an academic scholar, not a novelist.
Reason: He believes academic work has a broader impact than fiction.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
Eco classifies himself as an academic scholar, not a novelist, because he believes academic work has a broader impact than fiction. The reason (broader impact of academic work) explains why he categorizes himself in this way, supporting the assertion.

Q3: Assertion: Eco thinks that the success of his novel, The Name of the Rose, is a mystery.
Reason: The novel combines various complex elements that make it unique and challenging.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (b)
Eco does think the success of his novel, The Name of the Rose, is a mystery. However, the reason given (complex elements) does not fully explain why he finds it a mystery. There might be other factors contributing to its success that are not mentioned in the reason, making it an incomplete explanation.

Q4: Assertion: Eco believes that interviews are essential for building a celebrity's image.
Reason: Interviews allow celebrities to express their true identity.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (c)
While interviews can contribute to a celebrity's image, the reason that interviews allow celebrities to express their true identity is a subjective statement and not necessarily universally true. Therefore, the assertion is true, but the reason is not necessarily accurate or universally applicable.

Q5: Assertion: The chapter suggests that the concept of interviews has remained unchanged for centuries.
Reason: People's opinions about interviews have always been divided.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
The chapter suggests that the concept of interviews has remained unchanged for centuries, and people's opinions about interviews have always been divided. The reason (divided opinions) explains why the concept has remained unchanged, as differing perspectives have led to the persistence of various interview practices over time.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What is the origin of interviews according to the text?
Ans: Interviews originated 130 years before.

Q2: How does the chapter describe the varying opinions people have about interviews?
Ans: Some people highly regard interviews, while others find them unbearable.

Q3: Who is Rudyard Kipling's wife, and what did she write about interviews in her diary?
Ans: Rudyard Kipling's wife expressed in her diary that interviews are an assault.

Q4: What does Umberto Eco classify himself primarily as?
Ans: Umberto Eco classifies himself as an academic scholar.

Q5: In Umberto Eco's novel, "The Name of the Rose," what elements does it combine besides detective fiction?
Ans: The novel combines metaphysics, theology, and medieval history.

Q6: What does Umberto Eco refer to as "interstices" in the context of our lives?
Ans: Umberto Eco refers to empty spaces in our lives as "interstices."

Q7: When does Umberto Eco do most of his productive work?
Ans: Umberto Eco does most of his productive work in the course of his interstices time.

Q8: Who conducts the interview with Umberto Eco in the chapter, and which newspaper does he belong to?
Ans: Mukund from The Hindu Newspaper conducts the interview with Umberto Eco.

Q9: How many copies did Umberto Eco's novel, "The Name of the Rose," sell?
Ans: "The Name of the Rose" sold more than 10 million copies.

Q10: What does Umberto Eco consider the reason for the success of his novel?
Ans: Umberto Eco considers the reason for the success of his novel to be a mystery.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Describe the varying opinions people have about interviews as mentioned in the chapter.
Ans: Interviews are regarded differently by people; some highly value them, while others find them unbearable. Celebrities, including Rudyard Kipling's wife, have criticized interviews, considering them assaults. Kipling believed interviews should be punishable, indicating the severity of his dislike.

Q2: Explain Umberto Eco's perspective on interviews and his classification of himself.
Ans: Eco views interviews as a violation and doesn't believe respectable people should give or ask for interviews. He considers himself an academic scholar primarily, attending conferences during the week and writing novels on Sundays. Eco is unfazed by others considering him a novelist rather than a scholar.

Q3: Discuss the unique elements of Umberto Eco's novel, "The Name of the Rose."
Ans: "The Name of the Rose" combines detective fiction, metaphysics, theology, and medieval history. The novel's complexity lies in its blend of different genres, making it challenging to categorize.

Q4: Explain Umberto Eco's concept of "interstices" in our lives.
Ans: Eco refers to "interstices" as empty spaces in our lives. He does most of his productive work during these interstices, emphasizing their importance in his creative process.

Q5: Describe the interview between Mukund and Umberto Eco, focusing on Eco's view of his work and success.
Ans: Eco views his work as consistent, both in academic pursuits and writing novels. He justifies his novels, emphasizing their themes of peace and non-violence. Eco remains unbothered by how others perceive him and his work. He considers the success of "The Name of the Rose" a mystery, indicating the unpredictability of its reception.

Q6: Explain the significance of interviews in journalism, according to the chapter.
Ans: Interviews are a common practice in journalism, dating back 130 years. They elicit varying reactions from people, highlighting their impact and the diversity of opinions. The chapter emphasizes the lasting impression interviews can create, affecting both interviewees and interviewers.

Q7: Discuss the criticisms faced by interviews, as mentioned in the text.
Ans: The chapter illustrates how popular celebrities, including Rudyard Kipling and his wife, have criticized interviews. Kipling's wife considered interviews an assault, reflecting the intrusive nature some perceive. Kipling even believed interviews should be punishable, showcasing the severity of his disapproval.

Q8: Explain Umberto Eco's perspective on the difficulty of influencing people through academic work.
Ans: Umberto Eco believes that it is difficult to influence people through academic work because it often remains confined within academic circles. He suggests that novels have a wider reach and can potentially impact a larger audience.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the historical context and evolution of interviews in journalism, highlighting their significance.
Ans: The historical context of interviews in journalism dates back to the late 19th century when newspapers began to adopt a more personal and conversational style of reporting. This shift was influenced by the rise of the interviewing technique, which allowed journalists to directly engage with sources and extract valuable information for their stories.

• Initially, interviews were conducted in a straightforward question-and-answer format, with journalists posing questions to individuals of interest and reporting their responses verbatim. This approach was seen as a way to provide readers with direct access to the thoughts and perspectives of influential figures. However, as interviews became more prevalent, journalists started to employ various techniques to extract more insightful and revealing answers from their subjects.
• Over time, interviews evolved to include more in-depth and probing questions, aiming to uncover hidden truths and expose the motivations and beliefs of the interviewees. Additionally, the advent of broadcast media further popularized interviews, as television and radio allowed for a more immediate and intimate connection between the interviewer and the audience.
• The significance of interviews in journalism lies in their ability to provide firsthand accounts and perspectives on important events, issues, and personalities. They serve as a means of holding powerful individuals accountable, shedding light on societal problems, and giving voice to marginalized communities. Interviews offer a platform for individuals to express their opinions, share their experiences, and shape public discourse.
• Moreover, interviews play a crucial role in investigative journalism, allowing journalists to gather information, challenge official narratives, and uncover hidden truths. By engaging with sources directly, journalists can provide a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of complex issues.

In summary, interviews in journalism have a rich historical context and have evolved to become a powerful tool for journalists to extract information, challenge authority, and give voice to diverse perspectives. They have become an integral part of the journalistic process, contributing to the depth and accuracy of news reporting.

Q2: Discuss Umberto Eco's multidisciplinary approach in his novel, "The Name of the Rose," and how it contributed to its success.
Ans: Umberto Eco's novel, "The Name of the Rose," showcases his multidisciplinary approach, which incorporates elements of history, philosophy, semiotics, and literary theory. This approach greatly contributed to the success of the novel by enriching its narrative, depth, and intellectual appeal.

• Eco's background as a semiotician and scholar of medieval studies is evident throughout the novel. He meticulously recreates the historical context of the 14th-century monastery in which the story is set, incorporating accurate details of architecture, religious practices, and social hierarchies. This historical accuracy lends authenticity to the narrative and creates a vivid and immersive reading experience.
• Furthermore, Eco weaves philosophical and theological debates into the storyline, exploring complex themes such as the nature of truth, the conflict between reason and faith, and the power dynamics within religious institutions. By engaging with these profound philosophical questions, Eco elevates the novel beyond a mere detective story, stimulating intellectual curiosity and inviting readers to ponder larger existential and moral dilemmas.
• Eco's multidisciplinary approach is also evident in his use of intertextuality and allusions to various literary works, ranging from Aristotle's "Poetics" to Sherlock Holmes stories. These references not only demonstrate Eco's extensive knowledge of literature but also add layers of meaning and intertextual richness to the narrative. They engage readers in a playful intellectual game, rewarding those who recognize the allusions and enhancing their reading experience.

Overall, Eco's multidisciplinary approach in "The Name of the Rose" contributed to its success by offering readers a unique blend of historical accuracy, philosophical depth, and intertextual richness. It appealed to a wide range of audiences, from history enthusiasts to literary scholars, and solidified Eco's reputation as a masterful storyteller and intellectual provocateur.

Q3: Analyze Umberto Eco's views on the impact of his work and the challenges he faces as a scholar and novelist.
Ans: Umberto Eco, a prominent scholar and novelist, had complex views on the impact of his work and the challenges he faced in his dual roles. He recognized the power of literature to shape society and influence readers' perspectives, but he also acknowledged the limitations and potential misinterpretations that come with the creative process.

• Eco believed that literature, including his own novels, had the ability to provoke critical thinking, challenge established beliefs, and stimulate intellectual curiosity. He considered his works as intellectual games, inviting readers to engage with complex ideas and encouraging them to question conventional wisdom. Through his novels, he aimed to create a space for dialogue and reflection, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of human nature and societal dynamics.
• However, Eco also acknowledged the challenges he faced as a scholar and novelist. One of the challenges was ensuring that his ideas were accurately understood and not misinterpreted. His works often incorporated intricate philosophical concepts and intertextual references, which required readers to possess a certain level of knowledge and intellectual curiosity. Eco was aware that not all readers would be familiar with these references, and there was a risk of his ideas being oversimplified or misunderstood.
• Another challenge Eco faced was balancing his roles as a scholar and a novelist. As a scholar, he was committed to rigorous academic standards and the pursuit of knowledge. However, as a novelist, he had to navigate the demands of storytelling, character development, and narrative structure. This tension between academic rigor and literary creativity posed a challenge in finding the right balance and satisfying both scholarly and literary expectations.

Despite these challenges, Eco remained committed to the power of literature and the potential impact of his work. He believed that novels could contribute to the intellectual and cultural development of society by sparking curiosity, challenging assumptions, and promoting a deeper understanding of the human condition.

Q4: Examine the criticism faced by interviews, using examples from the text, and discuss their implications for journalism and society.
Ans: Interviews in journalism have faced criticism on various fronts, with some questioning their reliability, objectivity, and potential for manipulation. These criticisms have significant implications for journalism and society, as they raise concerns about the integrity of information dissemination and the role of interviews in shaping public opinion.

• One criticism faced by interviews is the potential for selective editing and manipulation of responses. Journalists have the power to choose which parts of an interview to include or exclude, which can lead to a skewed representation of the interviewee's views. For example, if a journalist omits crucial context or selectively quotes statements, it can distort the intended meaning and misrepresent the interviewee's position. This manipulation of interviews can lead to biased reporting and misinform the public.
• Furthermore, interviews can be influenced by the personal biases and agendas of the interviewer. Journalists may ask leading questions, frame the conversation in a certain way, or selectively pursue specific angles to fit their preconceived narratives. This can result in a biased portrayal of the interviewee and their perspectives. For instance, if an interviewer has a political bias, they may ask questions that provoke certain responses and exclude contradictory viewpoints, thus shaping public opinion in a particular direction.
• Another criticism is the lack of transparency regarding the interview process. Readers and viewers often do not have access to the full context of an interview, making it difficult to assess the authenticity and accuracy of the information presented. This lack of transparency can erode trust in journalism and contribute to the spread of misinformation.
• Additionally, interviews can be seen as privileging certain voices and perspectives over others. Journalists often have the power to choose whom to interview, and this selection process can inadvertently exclude marginalized communities or amplify the voices of the powerful and influential. This can perpetuate inequalities and limit the diversity of voices represented in public discourse.
• The implications of these criticisms are significant for journalism and society. They highlight the need for ethical interviewing practices, including transparency, fairness, and a commitment to presenting diverse perspectives. Journalists must strive for accuracy, context, and balance in their reporting to ensure that interviews serve as a reliable source of information and contribute to a well-informed public.
• Moreover, the criticism of interviews underscores the importance of media literacy and critical thinking skills among the public. Individuals need to be aware of the potential biases and manipulations in interviews and should actively seek multiple sources of information to form a comprehensive understanding of complex issues.

In conclusion, the criticism faced by interviews in journalism raises concerns about their reliability, objectivity, and potential for manipulation. These criticisms have implications for the integrity of journalism and the informed functioning of society. It is crucial for journalists to address these concerns and uphold ethical standards to maintain the trust of their audience and ensure the responsible dissemination of information.