Class 8 NCERT: The Last Bargain — MCQs, Answers & Poem Analysis
Type of homework: Essay Writing
Added: yesterday at 15:23
Summary:
Explore Class 8 NCERT’s The Last Bargain with detailed poem analysis, MCQs, and answers to deepen understanding and excel in homework and exams.
Comprehensive Understanding of *The Last Bargain* Poem: A Guide through MCQs and Conceptual Insights for Class 8 Students
---Rabindranath Tagore’s poem, *The Last Bargain*, occupies a special place in the NCERT Class 8 English syllabus, found in the ‘Honeydew’ textbook. At first glance, the poem’s simple language might suggest an easy comprehension, but Tagore’s use of metaphor, allegory, and symbolism reveals much deeper themes concerning life’s pursuits and values. As India’s educational landscape transitions to more competency-based assessments, including the widespread use of MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions), a holistic understanding of such poems becomes not only academically essential, but also a gateway to broader life lessons.
In this essay, we aim to provide Class 8 students with an in-depth exploration of *The Last Bargain*, weaving together literary appreciation, the strategic relevance of MCQs, and practical exam tips. This approach will help transform poetry study from rote learning into an enriching, meaningful experience while also preparing students for success in examinations.
---
Context and Background of the Poem
About the Poet: Rabindranath Tagore
Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel laureate and one of India’s most venerated literary icons, is known for his blend of simplicity and profundity. In works like *Gitanjali*, *Kabuliwala*, and *Gora*, he beautifully merges Indian ethos with universal human values. His style is distinguished by the use of natural imagery, spiritual undertones, and a gentle questioning of societal norms. In *The Last Bargain*, Tagore once again presents a scenario where the search for meaning takes centre stage, reflecting his lifelong quest to explore freedom, happiness, and the human soul’s true cravings.Summary of the Poem
The poem narrates the journey of a man in search of a ‘bargain’ – something meaningful to sell his labour for. Throughout the day, he encounters three figures: a king with power, a rich old man with money, and a beautiful young woman offering her smile – all tempting him with offers linked to authority, wealth, and beauty. However, the man turns down each, sensing their transactional and fleeting nature. Finally, at the end of the day, a child playing with shells on the shore approaches him. She smiles and asks nothing in return but company in play. The man accepts this unspoken, innocent bargain, attaining the happiness and freedom that eluded him earlier. The poem’s lesson lies in valuing innocence, purity of intentions, and human connection above material gains.Themes and Moral Values
At its core, *The Last Bargain* isn’t just a tale of rejected offers; it is a meditation on what genuinely brings fulfilment. Through the protagonist’s choices, Tagore explores:- The tension between materialistic pursuits and spiritual contentment. - The allure–and ultimate hollowness–of power, riches, and external beauty. - The profound innocence of a child, symbolising purity, selflessness, and true freedom.
This poem thus serves as both a critique of greed and ambition, and an endorsement of innocence, reminding students to look beyond superficial rewards.
---
Understanding the Structure and Language of the Poem
Poetic Devices and Literary Elements
Tagore’s genius lies in his subtlety. The ‘chariot’ and ‘sword’ symbolise power and authority, suggesting that kingship, though mighty, isn’t necessarily fulfilling. The rich old man is accompanied by gold coins, a recurring motif in Indian tales that often represents temptation but also transience. The young maiden’s ‘smile’ evokes the charm and promise of beauty but also its fleetingness. Each suitor’s offer contains a metaphor for worldly temptation.The poet employs imagery evocative of Indian settings – dusty roads, gardens with flowers, the seashore. These familiar landscapes make the message relatable for Indian students.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Words like “naught” may puzzle students but are crucial for grasping the poem’s meaning. In the context, “naught” means nothing, signifying that the child’s offer is unburdened by expectations, unlike those of the grown figures. Similarly, “labour” in the poem should be read both literally (work) and metaphorically (the search for life’s purpose).Understanding these terms is vital for MCQ-based questions, where subtle differences in meaning may influence the correct option.
Rhythm, Tone, and Mood
The poem moves from the heated bargaining of the day towards the calm acceptance at dusk. The tone shifts from transactional (in the king, old man, and maiden’s interactions) to tranquil and joyful when the child appears. This is mirrored in the rhythm, which slows and softens at the end, reinforcing the sense of relief and happiness found in genuine connection.---
Importance and Strategy of MCQs in Understanding the Poem
Role of MCQs in the CBSE Examination System
CBSE has increasingly embraced MCQs to encourage reading comprehension, quick recall, and critical thinking. MCQs offer objective evaluation and save exam time, allowing students to show their understanding without lengthy explanations. When studying *The Last Bargain*, MCQs can test factual recall (characters, offers, sequence), vocabulary, and interpretative skills.Common Types of MCQs Based on the Poem
1. Factual MCQs: Who is the poet? What are the offers made? 2. Meaning-based MCQs: What does ‘naught’ mean? What does the ‘sword’ symbolise? 3. Analytical MCQs: Why does the man reject the king’s offer? What emotions does the poem end with?Tips for Answering MCQs Effectively
- Read the poem carefully: Understanding flow and context is essential. - Eliminate distractions: Often one or two options can be ruled out immediately. - Identify key clues: Words, repetition, and the sequence of events often point towards the answer. - Review vocabulary: Ensure you know the meaning of words likely to be tested.---
Detailed Analysis of Representative MCQs from ‘The Last Bargain’
1. Poet’s Identity
*MCQ Example:* Who is the author of ‘The Last Bargain’? - (a) Sarojini Naidu - (b) Rabindranath Tagore - (c) Harivansh Rai Bachchan - (d) Ruskin BondCorrect Answer: (b) Rabindranath Tagore.
Remembering the author is crucial, not just for full marks but also for connecting literary styles and recurring themes across works.
2. Symbolism in ‘Sword in hand the King came’
The ‘sword’ here suggests authority and rule, but also the burden and coercion of power. Tagore’s use of the sword is not to glorify kingship, but to critique its emptiness when it comes unaccompanied by empathy or freedom.3. Vocabulary Questions: ‘Naught’
When the child offers ‘nothing’ in return for companionship, she offers acceptance and freedom. ‘Naught’ is not just about absence but about an offer without conditions or burdens – a key insight for MCQs.4. Analysis of Character Actions
The protagonist’s refusal of offers based on authority, wealth, and beauty underlines his search for something that cannot be bought or commanded. Accepting the child’s innocent proposal reflects Tagore’s belief in the essential purity of the human spirit.5. Emotion and Mood-Based Questions
Ending with the ‘happiness’ conferred by the child’s company, the poem shifts from conflict to contentment. Recognising this shift will help students answer mood-based MCQs accurately.6. Scene-Based Questions: The Child and Sea Shells
The child’s act of playing with shells is both literal and symbolic. Shells, often found on Indian shores, represent simplicity and joy found in little things – another recurring Tagore theme.---
Broader Learning Outcomes from the Poem and MCQs
Value Education Through Literature
Tagore’s work goes beyond academics, encouraging values like empathy, honesty, and self-worth. The poem reminds students that true happiness often lies in simplicity and innocence, themes also echoed in Indian epics and stories.Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Deciding why certain offers are rejected and others embraced develops higher-order thinking – moving beyond simple memorisation to analysis and evaluation.Enhanced Language Proficiency
Exposure to rich poetic vocabulary and figures of speech strengthens language skills, which pays off in all subjects.Exam Preparation and Confidence Building
Regular MCQ practice not only improves scores but also reduces exam anxiety by building familiarity with diverse question patterns.---
Practical Tips for Students Studying ‘The Last Bargain’
1. Read and reread the poem; each reading reveals new layers. 2. Underline key lines and jot notes in the margins for revision. 3. Practise MCQs using sample papers, but ensure you understand the logic behind the answers. 4. Join group discussions; explaining your views and hearing others’ interpretations deepens understanding. 5. Utilise resources wisely – use NCERT solutions for guidance, not crutches.---
Conclusion
To truly master *The Last Bargain*, students must combine attentive reading, literary appreciation, and strategic practice of MCQs. Tagore’s message – that innocence, honesty, and freedom are more precious than money or power – endures across generations and remains especially relevant in today’s fast-paced, competitive world. By embracing both the poem’s depth and the exam’s demands, students not only ensure academic success but also foster personal growth. Let literature be not just a subject, but a source of wisdom and strength for life beyond school walls. Study deeply, practise wisely, and let each poem enrich your mind and spirit.Sample questions
The answers have been prepared by our teacher
What is the summary of Class 8 NCERT The Last Bargain poem?
The poem follows a man's search for a true bargain, rejecting offers from a king, rich man, and maiden, but finding happiness and freedom with a child's innocent companionship.
What are the main themes in The Last Bargain for Class 8 NCERT?
The main themes are the difference between material gain and spiritual contentment, the hollowness of power and wealth, and the value of innocence and pure human connection.
Who wrote The Last Bargain in Class 8 NCERT and what is his style?
Rabindranath Tagore wrote it, known for using simple language, natural imagery, symbolism, and exploring deep spiritual and societal questions through gentle storytelling.
What poetic devices are used in Class 8 NCERT The Last Bargain?
The poem uses metaphor, allegory, imagery, and symbolism; items like the chariot, gold coins, and smiles represent power, wealth, and beauty.
How do MCQs help understand The Last Bargain in Class 8 NCERT?
MCQs test comprehension of key ideas, themes, and literary elements, helping students focus on important points and prepare effectively for exams.
Rate:
Log in to rate the work.
Log in