NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English - Hornbill

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English - Hornbill. This page offers chapter-wise solutions designed to help students grasp key concepts easily. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

• Chapter 1 The Portrait of a Lady

  The author Khushwant singh talks about his grandmother. He portraits his grandmother and says that his grandmother has lots of wrinkles on her face as she is very old and after seeing this he don’t believes that in earlier times his grandmother was very pretty and beautiful because his grandmother is old and obese now and her back is slightly tilt down due to old age.

  In the First phase, when the narrator was a small boy, he used to live in village with his grandmother as his parents were living in the city. Author and his grandmother had a great bonding of friendship. She used to make him wake up in the morning and get him ready for school and prepares breakfast and she used to pack his lunch, wooden slate and yellow chalk in a bundle. She used to accompany him to school and while he do his studies in school, she used to spend her time in temple by praying and telling her beads. And after returning from school they used to feed chapattis to street dogs.

  In the second phase, author’s parents got settled in the city and author and his grandmother also shifted in the city. They used to share the same room but some distances had come between their relationships because author started going to school in a motor bus and his grandmother could no longer accompany him to his school, and could not feed dogs like she used to do in village but now she spend her time by spinning wheel, reciting prayers and telling her beads.

• Chapter 2 We're Not Afraid to Die... if We Can All Be Together

  The chapter We're Not Afraid to Die... if We Can All Be Together by Gordon Cook and Alan East tells the gripping real-life story of a family’s courage, resilience, and unwavering unity in the face of a life-threatening ordeal. The narrative revolves around the author's journey with his family, including his wife Mary and two children, Jonathan (6 years old) and Suzanne (7 years old), as they embark on a daring sea expedition.

  The story begins with the family’s excitement as they set sail from Plymouth, England, in July 1976 on their custom-built boat, the Wavewalker. Their goal is to replicate the famous round-the-world voyage made by Captain James Cook, a trip that covers roughly 105,000 kilometers across three years. They prepare meticulously for this journey, spending months practicing and equipping themselves with the necessary skills to tackle the challenges of the sea.

  The first part of their voyage goes smoothly as they sail down the west coast of Africa to Cape Town. However, after leaving Cape Town and entering the Indian Ocean, the family encounters massive storms and treacherous seas. One night, in the midst of a violent storm, the boat is struck by a massive wave, injuring Gordon, severely damaging the boat, and causing leaks in multiple places. Despite his injuries, Gordon displays immense courage and presence of mind. He does everything he can to keep the boat afloat and stabilize it in the hostile waters.

  The family is joined by two crew members, Herb and Larry, who assist in managing the boat and keeping it steady. Everyone works tirelessly to pump out water and repair the boat to survive the storm. Throughout the ordeal, both children exhibit remarkable bravery and support. Jonathan, the young son, shows maturity beyond his years when he tells his father, “We aren’t afraid of dying if we can all be together.” These words give the family strength and inspiration to continue fighting for survival.

  After enduring rough weather and struggling against nature for several days, the family finally reaches the island of Ile Amsterdam, a small volcanic island in the South Indian Ocean. They are warmly welcomed by the islanders, and their traumatic journey comes to a safe end.

  The story captures the essence of courage, family bonds, and the human will to survive. It demonstrates that even in the darkest of times, love, unity, and determination can help overcome adversity. The chapter serves as a powerful reminder of the strength that family support can provide and the resilience of the human spirit.

• Chapter 3 Discovering Tut: the Saga Continues

  Discovering Tut: The Saga Continues by A.R. Williams explores the mysteries surrounding the life and death of the Egyptian Pharaoh, Tutankhamun, popularly known as "King Tut." The chapter delves into the scientific and archaeological efforts to unravel the cause of Tut’s sudden death at a young age.

  It traces back to the discovery of Tut’s tomb by archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922 and discusses how modern technology like CT scans and forensic analysis have been used to examine the mummy in an attempt to answer questions about his demise. The chapter also sheds light on the significance of ancient Egyptian burial customs and the grandeur of the artifacts found in Tut's tomb, emphasizing how Tut's story continues to captivate historians and scientists. The chapter raises questions about the responsibilities of modern science when it comes to respecting ancient remains, while showcasing the delicate relationship between history and technology.

• Chapter 4 Landscape of Soul

  Landscape of the Soul by Nathalie Trouveroy compares Eastern and Western perspectives on art, focusing on the concept of "landscape painting." In the West, art is viewed as a mirror that reflects reality, with artists attempting to capture exact likenesses in their work.

  In contrast, Eastern art, especially Chinese landscape painting, emphasizes the inner essence of the subject rather than its outward appearance. The chapter explores how Chinese artists aim to represent the spirit or "soul" of the landscape rather than just a realistic portrayal. This difference is exemplified through two stories, one about a Chinese painter who vanishes into his own creation, and another about a European painter who paints lifelike representations. Through these stories, the chapter highlights how art is a reflection of cultural beliefs and philosophies, with each tradition offering unique insights into the human experience.

• Chapter 5 The Ailing Planet: the Green Movement's Role

  The Ailing Planet: The Green Movement’s Role by Nani Palkhivala is a thought-provoking article that discusses environmental degradation and the urgent need for sustainable development. It highlights the alarming depletion of natural resources, deforestation, and the impact of pollution on the planet.

  The chapter explains how the Green Movement, which began in 1972, has brought environmental issues to the forefront and stresses the importance of conservation. It advocates for a shift in human attitudes, urging people to see themselves as custodians of the Earth rather than its exploiters. The article also emphasizes the need for responsible management of resources to ensure a sustainable future. Through thought-provoking arguments, the author calls upon the younger generation to take active steps in protecting the environment, emphasizing that our survival depends on the health of the planet.

• Chapter 6 The Browning Version

  The Browning Version by Terence Rattigan is a poignant one-act play that captures the complexities of human emotions and relationships. The story revolves around Andrew Crocker-Harris, a middle-aged, disillusioned teacher, who is retiring due to health issues.

  Known for his strictness, he is unpopular among students and is referred to as "The Crock" behind his back. As the play unfolds, a student named Taplow, who respects him despite his reputation, gives him an unexpected farewell gift—a copy of the translation of Agamemnon by Robert Browning. This small act of kindness moves Crocker-Harris deeply, revealing his vulnerable side and showing how deeply he craves respect and recognition. The play subtly portrays the impact of unfulfilled dreams, lost respect, and the redemptive power of kindness, highlighting the emotional struggles of a person trapped in a life of routine and unappreciation.

• Chapter 7 The Adventure

  The Adventure by Jayant Narlikar is a fascinating story that combines elements of science fiction with historical narrative. The chapter follows Professor Gaitonde, a historian, who finds himself transported to an alternate reality where historical events have unfolded differently.

  In this parallel universe, India did not lose the Battle of Panipat, and as a result, Indian history took a vastly different course, leading to a prosperous and unified country. As he navigates this unfamiliar world, Professor Gaitonde realizes the importance of perspective in understanding history. Through the concept of time travel and alternate realities, the story delves into questions about destiny, the impact of historical events on the present, and how different outcomes could shape society. The chapter encourages readers to think critically about history and explore the "what-ifs" that make the study of the past intriguing.

• Chapter 8 Silk Road

  Silk Road by Nick Middleton is a travelogue that recounts the author’s journey through the high-altitude deserts of Tibet. The chapter describes his experiences as he travels along the ancient Silk Road to Mount Kailash, one of the most sacred sites in Buddhism and Hinduism.

  Middleton encounters challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and cultural differences along the way, which reveal the hardships and beauty of life in the Tibetan plateau. Through vivid descriptions of the harsh landscape, the author conveys the spirituality, mysticism, and resilience of the people who live there. The chapter highlights the blend of adventure and spirituality that marks the journey, and how the Silk Road serves as a bridge between cultures and beliefs. Middleton's account not only provides insight into Tibetan life but also underscores the theme of perseverance and self-discovery that accompanies such arduous journeys.