Educational Notes

a. Why was Mrs. Baroda unhappy with the information about Gouvernail’s visit to their farm?

Ans: She was unhappy because she had planned a peaceful time with her husband, which Gouvernail’s unexpected visit disrupted.

b. How was Gouvernail different from Mrs. Baroda’s expectation?

Ans: She had imagined him as cynical and aloof, but he turned out to be quiet, gentle, and not as she had pictured.

c. How does Mrs. Baroda compare Gouvernail with her husband?

Ans: She finds Gouvernail reserved and quiet, unlike her husband who is friendly, open, and sociable.

d. Why and how did Mrs. Baroda try to change Gouvernail’s solitary habits?

Ans: She wanted him to be more interactive, so she offered her hospitality and engaged him in conversation.

e. How does Gaston disagree with his wife on Gouvernail’s character?

Ans: Gaston sees Gouvernail as harmless and undemanding, while Mrs. Baroda finds him emotionally disturbing.

f. Why is Gaston surprised with his wife’s expression towards the end of the story?

Ans: He is surprised because she, who initially disliked Gouvernail's presence, now wishes to invite him again.

a. What is the cause of conflict in Mrs. Baroda’s mind? What role does Mrs. Baroda ‘being a respectable woman’ play in the story?

Ans: Mrs. Baroda is attracted to Gouvernail, but her moral values and social image as a respectable woman force her to suppress her feelings.

b. Sketch the character of Gouvernail and contrast it with Gaston.

Ans: Gouvernail is quiet, calm, and introverted. Gaston is open, sociable, and talkative. Gouvernail prefers solitude while Gaston enjoys conversation.

c. Why does Mrs. Baroda not disclose her feelings towards Gouvernail to her husband?

Ans: She fears social judgment, marital issues, and damage to her husband’s friendship with Gouvernail, so she keeps her feelings private.

d. The last three sentences of the story bring a kind of twist. After reading these three sentences, how do you analyze Mrs. Baroda’s attitude towards Gouvernail?

Ans: The ending shows either Mrs. Baroda’s self-control over her emotions or a decision to act freely regardless of social norms.

a. Narrate a story where an outsider's arrival destroys a marital relationship.

Ans: In Anton Chekhov's "About Love," Alyohin falls in love with Anna, a married woman. Their emotional bond grows, but due to societal norms, they never express their feelings openly. This unspoken love causes emotional strain, and eventually, Anna leaves, leaving Alyohin heartbroken. The outsider's emotional presence, though faultless, damages Anna’s marriage.

b. Suppose your family pressures you to marry. Describe what qualities you'd like in a future spouse.

Ans: Marriage is a lifelong commitment, so I would want my future spouse to be understanding, respectful, and emotionally supportive. They should be well-educated, caring, and possess good moral character. A positive attitude, loyalty, and a strong sense of responsibility are essential qualities I'd look for. Mutual respect and shared values matter most in a lifelong partnership.