Rabindranath Tagore's poem 'The Last Bargain'
Introduction to CBSE Solutions for Class 8 English Chapter "The Last Bargain”
The poem tells the story of a man who goes to the market to sell his wares. As he walks through the market, he is offered various prices for his goods, but he rejects them all, seeking a higher price. However, he eventually realizes that his life is nearing its end and that material possessions are of little value. The man then offers his wares for free, symbolizing his acceptance of the transient nature of material wealth and his realization that true fulfillment comes from spiritual pursuits.
Assignment and Activities for CBSE Class 8 English:“The Last Bargain“
- Reflective Essay: Write a reflective essay discussing the themes of materialism and spirituality in the poem. Include examples from the poem to support your analysis.
- Visual Representation: Create a visual representation of a scene from the poem. Use drawings, colors, and symbols to convey the central themes of the poem.
- Symbolism Analysis: Analyze the symbolism used in the poem, such as the market, the man’s wares, and his final decision to give them away for free. Explain the significance of these symbols in conveying the poem’s central message.
Conclusion
“The Last Bargain” is a profound poem that encourages readers to reflect on the true meaning of wealth and the importance of spiritual fulfillment. By engaging with the themes and symbols of the poem, students can deepen their understanding of these complex concepts and apply them to their own lives.
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Questions and Answers for CBSE Class 8 English: “The Last Bargain"
Q1: What is the central theme of “The Last Bargain”?
ANS: The central theme of the poem is the transient nature of material wealth and the importance of spiritual fulfillment.
Q2: How does the protagonist’s attitude towards wealth change throughout the poem?
ANS: The protagonist starts by seeking a higher price for his wares but ends by giving them away for free, symbolizing his shift from materialism to spirituality.
Q3: What message does the poem convey about the pursuit of material wealth?
ANS: The poem suggests that the pursuit of material wealth is ultimately futile and that true fulfillment comes from spiritual pursuits.
Q4: How does the poem use imagery to convey its message?
ANS: The poem uses vivid imagery of the market and the man’s wares to symbolize the fleeting nature of material possessions.
Q5: What role does acceptance play in the protagonist’s journey?
ANS: Acceptance plays a crucial role in the protagonist’s journey as he comes to terms with the impermanence of life and material wealth.
Q6: How does the poem reflect Rabindranath Tagore’s philosophy?
ANS: The poem reflects Tagore’s philosophy of spiritualism and his belief in the importance of inner peace and fulfillment.
Q7: How can students relate the themes of the poem to their own lives?
ANS: Students can relate the themes of the poem to their own lives by reflecting on their values and priorities, and considering what truly brings them fulfillment.
Q8: What can students learn from the protagonist’s journey in the poem?
ANS: Students can learn from the protagonist’s journey that material possessions are temporary and that true fulfillment comes from within.
Q9: How does the poem challenge conventional ideas about wealth and success?
ANS: The poem challenges conventional ideas by suggesting that wealth and success are not measured by material possessions, but by inner peace and spiritual fulfillment.
Q10: How does the poem’s title “The Last Bargain” relate to its central message?
ANS: The title “The Last Bargain” suggests that the protagonist’s final realization is the most valuable bargain he makes, as it leads to his spiritual awakening and inner peace.
