Class 8 English (It So Happened) Chapter 3 The Selfish Giant

Key Concept: Geometry, Algebra

c) 12

[Solution Description]

In a right-angled triangle, the Pythagorean theorem states that $a^2 + b^2 = c^2$, where $c$ is the hypotenuse. Let the sides be $a = 5$, $b$ (unknown), and $c = 13$. Plugging these into the theorem:

$5^2 + b^2 = 13^2 \implies 25 + b^2 = 169$

Subtract 25 from both sides:

$b^2 = 144 \implies b = 12$

Therefore, the length of the third side is 12 units.

Key Concept: Children’s Reaction

c) To listen to the birds

[Solution Description]

According to the syllabus, the birds sat on the trees and sang so sweetly that the children used to stop their games in order to listen to them. Thus, the correct answer is to listen to the birds.

Key Concept: Children’s Reaction

a) To listen to the birds

[Solution Description] The syllabus states that the birds sat on the trees and sang so sweetly that the children used to stop their games in order to listen to them.

Key Concept: Description of the Garden

c) Green

[Solution Description]

The syllabus mentions that the Giant’s garden has soft green grass. Therefore, the color of the grass is green.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Return

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s garden was initially filled with life and joy because the children played there. However, when the Giant returned and chased the children away, Spring and Summer also left, turning the garden into winter. Later, when the Giant had a change of heart and allowed the children to return, Spring and Summer came back as well. This shows that the presence of the children was directly linked to the seasons in the garden. The Giant’s initial selfishness caused the departure of Spring and Summer, and his change of heart brought them back.

Key Concept: The Giant returns after seven years of visiting his friend, the Cornish Ogre

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

According to the syllabus, the Giant had been to visit his friend, the Cornish ogre, and stayed with him for seven years. This directly supports both the assertion and the reason. The reason correctly explains why the Giant was away from his garden. Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Character Interaction

c) He cried out in a gruff voice

[Solution Description]

When the Giant came back after seven years and saw the children playing in his garden, he cried out in a gruff voice, “What are you doing here?” This frightened the children, and they ran away.

Key Concept: Comprehension, Interpretation

c) The children were not present in the garden

[Solution Description] According to the story, Spring and Summer did not come to the Giant’s garden because the Giant had driven the children away by building a high wall and putting up a notice-board. The text says: “The birds did not care to sing in it as there were no children, and the trees forgot to blossom.” This indicates that the absence of children caused Spring and Summer to avoid the garden.

Key Concept: Selfish Giant’s Actions and Consequences

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s decision to build a high wall around his garden is detailed in the syllabus. He explicitly states, “My own garden is my own garden,” and he puts up a notice-board that says, “TRESPASSERS WILL BE PROSECUTED.” This action directly reflects his selfish nature, as he does not want anyone else to enjoy the garden. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: Character Analysis

c) He put him on top of the tree

[Solution Description]

When the Giant saw the little boy crying in the farthest corner of the garden, he put him on top of the tree. The text mentions, “And the Giant stole up behind him and took him gently in his hands, and put him up into the tree.”

Key Concept: Giant’s Nature

b) Selfish and possessive.

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s behavior of building a high wall and putting up a notice to prevent others from entering his garden clearly indicates that he was selfish and did not want to share his garden with anyone.

Key Concept: Symbolism, Theme

d) The Giant’s selfishness disrupted the natural order

[Solution Description]

In “The Garden Without Children,” Spring and Summer symbolize renewal, joy, and life, which are directly connected to the presence of children in the garden. The Giant’s selfishness in building a high wall to keep children out disrupts the natural order, causing Spring and Summer to avoid his garden. This refusal highlights the theme that joy and life cannot thrive in a place devoid of selflessness and kindness. Only when the Giant changes his heart and allows the children to return does Spring and Summer revisit the garden, restoring its beauty.

Key Concept: Character Analysis, Symbolism

b) The perpetual winter caused by the Giant’s selfishness

[Solution Description]

The Snow’s great white cloak symbolizes the perpetual winter that engulfs the garden due to the Giant’s selfishness. This imagery emphasizes the absence of life and joy, as spring refuses to enter the garden without the presence of children. The cloak represents the cold, lifeless state of the garden.

Key Concept: The Garden Without Children

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant’s garden remained in eternal winter because the Spring forgot to visit it. This is true as the text mentions that “Spring has forgotten this garden,” which led to the perpetual winter. The reason states that the Snow, Frost, North Wind, and Hail decided to live in the garden all year round. This is also true as these characters are described as taking over the garden due to the absence of Spring. However, the reason does not explain why the Spring forgot to visit; it merely describes the consequence of Spring’s absence. Therefore, while both the assertion and reason are true, the reason does not correctly explain the assertion.

Key Concept: Theme Analysis

c) The consequences of the Giant’s selfishness.

[Solution Description]

The absence of Spring and Summer in the Giant’s garden symbolizes the consequences of his selfishness, as it led to a perpetual winter where nothing could grow or flourish.

Key Concept: Birds stop singing

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

In “The Selfish Giant,” the birds stopped singing because the Giant had banned children from entering his garden. This made the garden a desolate place, devoid of joy and life, which is why Spring and Summer did not visit. The presence of children is essential for the renewal of life and the return of seasons like Spring and Summer. Therefore, the absence of children directly led to the birds stopping their songs.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

In the story “The Selfish Giant,” the Snow and the Frost express their happiness about living in the garden because they believe Spring has forgotten it. This is evident when they say, “Spring has forgotten this garden, so we will live here all the year round.” Both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains why the Snow and the Frost were pleased to stay in the garden.

Key Concept: Comprehension: Characters in the Story

b) Because Spring had forgotten the garden.

[Solution Description]

The text mentions that the Snow and Frost said, “Spring has forgotten this garden, so we will live here all the year round.” This indicates that they decided to stay because they believed Spring had abandoned the garden.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant

b) Because he could not reach the branches of the tree

[Solution Description]

The little boy was crying because he was so small that he could not reach up to the branches of the tree. This is mentioned in the text: “He was so small that he could not reach up to the branches of the tree, and he was wandering all round it, crying bitterly.” Additionally, the tree was still covered with frost and snow, and the North Wind was blowing and roaring above it, which added to his distress.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the hailstorm damaged the Giant’s castle by rattling on the roof for three hours every day. This is supported by the text where it mentions that the hailstorm rattled on the roof of the castle till he broke most of the slates. The reason mentions that the hailstorm was dressed in grey and his breath was like ice, which describes the appearance of the hailstorm but does not directly explain why it caused damage to the castle. The reason provides additional information about the hailstorm but does not logically explain the cause of the damage. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Hailstorm, Giant’s Castle

b) It broke most of the slates on the roof

[Solution Description]

The hailstorm rattled on the roof of the castle for three hours every day, breaking most of the slates. This indicates that the primary effect of the hailstorm was significant damage to the castle’s roof.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Realization

c) Put the little boy on the top of the tree and knock down the wall

[Solution Description] After his heart melted, the Giant decided to put the little boy on the top of the tree, knock down the wall, and make the garden a playground for the children forever.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Realization

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant realizes his selfishness when he sees the little boy crying in the garden, which is true as the story describes how the Giant’s heart melts upon seeing the boy’s distress. The reason states that this realization leads the Giant to knock down the wall and allow the children to play in the garden forever, which is also true as the Giant explicitly decides to make the garden a playground for children after his change of heart. Moreover, the reason correctly explains the assertion because the Giant’s act of knocking down the wall is a direct consequence of his realization of his selfishness. Thus, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Theme, Moral Lesson

c) Kindness and sharing bring happiness and beauty.

[Solution Description]

The story teaches that selfishness leads to isolation and unhappiness. The Giant’s initial selfishness in keeping the children out of his garden resulted in eternal Winter and his own sadness. However, when he became kind and allowed the children to play in the garden, Spring returned, and he found joy. The moral lesson is that kindness and sharing bring happiness and beauty into one’s life.

Key Concept: The Garden’s Transformation

c) The trees covered themselves with blossoms.

[Solution Description]

When the children returned to the garden, the trees were overjoyed and covered themselves with blossoms. They waved their arms gently in happiness, as described in the text: “the trees were so glad to have the children back again that they had covered themselves with blossoms.”

Key Concept: Character Identification

c) The Snow and the Frost

[Solution Description]

According to the story, the only people who were pleased to live in the Giant’s garden all year round were the Snow and the Frost. They claimed that Spring had forgotten the garden and decided to stay there permanently.

Key Concept: Character Analysis, Symbolism

c) The Giant’s selfishness has caused the Spring to abandon the garden

[Solution Description]

The Spring refuses to come to the Giant’s garden because the garden is filled with the presence of winter elements like Snow, Frost, North Wind, and Hail. These elements symbolize the Giant’s selfishness and the absence of children in the garden. The text mentions that Autumn gave golden fruit to every garden but none to the Giant’s garden because “He is too selfish.” Therefore, the Spring’s refusal is symbolic of the consequences of the Giant’s selfishness.

Key Concept: Character Motivation, Plot Development

b) To make the garden a playground for the children forever.

[Solution Description]

The Giant knocked down the wall to make the garden a playground for the children forever. His encounter with the little boy made him realize the importance of sharing and inclusivity. By removing the wall, he allowed the children to freely enter and enjoy the garden, symbolizing his transformation from selfishness to generosity.

Key Concept: Plot Understanding

c) He saw the little boy crying and unable to reach the tree.

[Solution Description]

The Giant realized his selfishness when he saw the little boy crying bitterly in the farthest corner of the garden because he couldn’t reach the tree. This sight made the Giant’s heart melt, leading him to understand why Spring had not come to his garden. He then decided to help the boy and make his garden a playground for all children.

Key Concept: The Return of the Children

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The passage describes a scene where the children sneak into the garden and sit on the branches of the trees. The trees are described as being glad to have the children back, which is evident from their actions: they cover themselves with blossoms and wave their arms gently above the children’s heads. This clearly indicates that the trees are happy because of the presence of the children. Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Children Sneak into the Garden

c) The trees covered themselves with blossoms

[Solution Description]

When the children returned to the garden, the trees were so happy that they covered themselves with blossoms and waved their branches gently above the children’s heads.

Key Concept: Advanced Reasoning, Non-Straightforward Path

b) $18.43^\circ$

[Solution Description]

The vertical distance from the ground to the hole is 1 meter. Using the tangent function in trigonometry, $\tan(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}} = \frac{1}{3}$. To find the angle $\theta$, we take the arctangent of both sides: $\theta = \arctan\left(\frac{1}{3}\right) \approx 18.43^\circ$.

Key Concept: Basic Concept

c) Entering through a small hole in the wall

[Solution Description]

The children return by entering through a small hole in the wall, as mentioned in the subtopic.

Key Concept: Character Analysis

c) Because he missed the little boy who had kissed him.

[Solution Description]

The Giant felt very sad because he loved the little boy the most, as the boy had kissed him. When the children could not tell him where the boy lived, he realized he might not see his little friend again, which made him sad.

Key Concept: The Return of the Children, Spring immediately returns

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant’s act of knocking down the wall caused Spring to return immediately. This is true because the text mentions that as soon as the children came back, Spring also returned. The reason provided is that the presence of children in the garden symbolizes the return of life and joy, which aligns with Spring’s return. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Plot Development

c) The Giant lifts him up into the tree

[Solution Description]

The little boy is too small to reach the tree branches, and he is crying. The Giant feels sorry for him and helps him by lifting him up into the tree. Once the boy is placed in the tree, it blossoms, and the birds come to sing on it.

Key Concept: Symbolism of the Tree

c) The absence of happiness due to the Giant’s selfishness

[Solution Description]

In “The Selfish Giant,” the tree covered with frost and snow symbolizes the Giant’s selfishness and the absence of joy and warmth in his garden. It represents the state of the garden when the children were not allowed to play there, leading to perpetual winter in that corner.

Key Concept: Comprehension

c) He placed the little boy up into the tree.

[Solution Description]

The Giant realized his selfishness and decided to put the little boy on top of the tree. This act made the tree blossom, and Spring returned to the garden.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The assertion states that the Giant’s garden remained in winter because he had been selfish and kept the children out. This is true as per the story, where the Giant realizes his selfishness and its impact on his garden. The reason given is that Spring refused to come to the Giant’s garden as a result of his selfishness. This is also true, as Spring returns only when the Giant allows the children back into the garden. Both statements are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: Little Boy’s Disappearance

c) Because the boy had disappeared and the Giant loved him the most.

[Solution Description]

The Giant felt sad because he loved the little boy the most and longed to see him again. The boy had kissed him, and this act of affection made the Giant deeply attached to him.

Key Concept: Giant’s Action

c) He took the boy gently and placed him on the tree.

[Solution Description]

The Giant took the little boy gently in his hands and placed him on the tree, which immediately blossomed. This act showed the Giant’s change of heart and his newfound kindness.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant, The Giant’s reaction to the child’s wounds

b) He is protective and cares for the child

[Solution Description] The Giant’s reaction to the child’s wounds reveals his protective and caring nature towards the child. His anger shows that he is deeply affected by the sight of the child’s suffering and is ready to defend the child against any harm.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant, The Return of the Children

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The story describes how the Giant, upon seeing the little boy crying under the tree, felt remorse for his past actions. He recognized that his selfishness had kept Spring away from his garden. This realization led him to help the boy and ultimately change his ways, allowing Spring to return. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Change of Heart, Symbolism

b) Generosity and inclusion

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s act of knocking down the wall symbolizes his transformation from selfishness to selflessness. Initially, the wall represents his isolation and exclusion of others. By destroying it, he opens his garden to the children, symbolizing his newfound generosity and love for others.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Change of Heart

c) He knocked down the wall around the garden.

[Solution Description]

The Giant realized his selfishness and decided to change. He took a great axe and knocked down the wall around his garden, making it a playground for the children. This act symbolized his transformation from being selfish to generous.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant, Realizes he has been selfish

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The story illustrates that the Giant’s heart softened when he witnessed the little boy’s plight, which made him reflect on his past actions. This moment of empathy led him to understand how his selfishness had caused the perpetual winter in his garden. The assertion is true as the Giant did indeed feel remorse upon seeing the boy. The reason is also true because it was the sight of the struggling boy that prompted the Giant’s realization. Furthermore, the reason correctly explains the assertion since the boy’s distress directly led to the Giant’s self-awareness and change of heart.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant’s Realization

d) The Giant saw the boy crying under the frost-covered tree.

[Solution Description]

The Giant realized he had been selfish when he saw the little boy crying because he couldn’t reach the tree in the farthest corner of the garden. The tree was still covered with frost and snow, and the North Wind was blowing above it. The scene made the Giant reflect on his actions, leading him to understand why Spring had not come to his garden.

Key Concept: The Little Boy’s Significance

b) He had kissed the Giant

[Solution Description]

The Giant loved the little boy the most because he had kissed him. This act of affection made the boy special to the Giant. The boy also symbolized innocence and kindness, which deeply touched the Giant’s heart.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant, Transformation of the Giant

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant’s decision to knock down the wall symbolizes his complete transformation from selfishness to selflessness. This is true because earlier the Giant had kept the children out of his garden, which resulted in perpetual winter. However, after realizing his selfishness, he decided to break down the wall and allow the children to play in his garden, which signifies his change of heart.

The reason states that by knocking down the wall, the Giant allowed the children to enter his garden, which led to the return of Spring and his own happiness. This is also true because the text explicitly mentions that when the children returned, Spring came back to the garden, and the Giant found joy in playing with them.

Furthermore, the reason correctly explains the assertion because the act of knocking down the wall directly reflects the Giant’s transformation and leads to the positive outcomes mentioned in the reason.

Key Concept: Character Motivation

b) To let the Spring enter his garden permanently

[Solution Description]

The Giant realized his selfishness had caused winter to persist in his garden. He felt sorry for the little boy who couldn’t reach the tree and decided to make amends by knocking down the wall, allowing children to play in the garden forever.

Key Concept: The Return of the Children

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The Giant realized his selfishness had kept the children away and caused winter to persist in his garden. He decided to knock down the wall to make the garden accessible to the children forever, showing his change of heart. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Little Boy’s Disappearance

c) He disappeared and was never seen again

[Solution Description]

The little boy disappeared after the first day, and the Giant never saw him again. The other children did not know where he lived or who he was, leaving the Giant longing for his little friend for years.

Key Concept: The Little Boy’s Reaction

c) He hugged the Giant and kissed him.

[Solution Description]

When the Giant put the little boy on the tree, the boy stretched out his arms, hugged the Giant, and kissed him, showing his gratitude and affection.

Key Concept: Selfless Love, Symbolism

b) It reveals his newfound capacity for selfless love

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s sadness and longing for the little boy he loved indicate a deep emotional transformation in him. Initially selfish, he grows to value selfless love and companionship over material possessions like his garden.

Key Concept: Interpretation

b) The child symbolizes suffering and sacrifice for love.

[Solution Description]

The phrase “the wounds of Love” suggests that the little child is a representation of Jesus Christ. This is because the marks of nails on his hands and feet symbolize the crucifixion wounds of Christ. The text implies that the child’s appearance and words evoke a sense of divinity and selfless love, which aligns with Christian symbolism.

Key Concept: Emotional Response

c) He was filled with great joy.

[Solution Description]

The Giant was filled with great joy when he first saw the little boy. He ran downstairs and hurried into the garden to meet the child, showing his happiness at their reunion.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant, The Giant’s Favorite Child

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant’s transformation was triggered by the sight of the little boy’s wounds. This is true because the text mentions that the Giant’s heart melted when he saw the child’s wounds, leading him to realize his selfishness. The reason claims that the wounds symbolized the suffering caused by the Giant’s selfishness, which is also true as the Giant’s earlier actions had prevented the Spring from coming to his garden, causing suffering. Moreover, the reason correctly explains the assertion because the symbolic nature of the wounds directly led to the Giant’s realization and subsequent transformation.

Key Concept: Concept: The Giant’s Love for the Little Boy

c) Because the boy had kissed him

[Solution Description]

The Giant loved the little boy the most because the little boy had kissed him. This act of affection made the boy special to the Giant.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Love for the Little Boy

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The story clearly states that the Giant loved the little boy the most because he had kissed him. This kiss established a unique bond between them, making the boy unique in the Giant’s eyes. The reason explains why the kiss made the boy special, as it symbolizes a deep connection that goes beyond mere physical interaction.

Key Concept: Analyzing the Children’s Response

b) They said they did not know where he lived

[Solution Description]

When the Giant asked about the little boy, the children responded that they did not know where he lived and had never seen him before. This left the Giant feeling very sad as he had a special bond with the little boy.

Key Concept: The Little Boy’s Disappearance

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant felt sad because the children did not know where the little boy lived. This is true as the text mentions that the Giant felt very sad when the children said they did not know where the little boy lived and had never seen him before. The reason states that the Giant loved the little boy the most because he had kissed him. This is also true as the text explicitly mentions that the Giant loved him the best because he had kissed him. However, the reason does not directly explain why the Giant felt sad about the children not knowing where the little boy lived. Therefore, both assertions are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Transformation

b) To allow children to play in his garden

[Solution Description]

The Giant initially built a wall around his garden to keep children out, which caused the garden to remain in a perpetual winter. After seeing a little boy crying because he couldn’t reach the tree, the Giant realized his selfishness and decided to let the children play in his garden again. He knocked down the wall to allow the children to enter, symbolizing his transformation from selfishness to kindness.

Key Concept: Theme Analysis, Symbolism

c) Children bring beauty and joy to life.

[Solution Description]

The metaphor comparing children to flowers signifies their innocence, beauty, and the joy they bring to life. Flowers are often associated with growth and vitality, and by calling the children “the most beautiful flowers,” the Giant emphasizes their importance and the happiness they provide.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Longing for the Little Boy

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The Assertion states that the Giant longed for the little boy because he could not find him again among the children who played in his garden. This is true according to the syllabus, which mentions that the Giant often spoke of the little boy and said, “How I would like to see him!” The Reason explains that the little boy had a profound impact on the Giant, leading to his constant yearning and emotional attachment. This is also true, as the Giant’s love for the little boy is evident throughout the story. However, the Reason does not directly explain why the Giant could not find the little boy again; it only explains the emotional connection. Therefore, while both statements are true, the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.

Key Concept: The Giant’s feelings towards the little boy

b) He could no longer play and spent his days sitting

[Solution Description]

The Giant grew old and weak over time because he could no longer play with the children. He spent his days sitting in a huge armchair, watching the children and admiring his garden. His longing for the little boy he loved also contributed to his emotional state, as he often spoke of how much he wished to see him again.

Key Concept: Setting and Context

b) In a huge armchair

[Solution Description]

As the Giant grew old and feeble, he could no longer play with the children. Instead, he sat in a huge armchair and watched them play from there.

Key Concept: Character Analysis

c) The little boy

[Solution Description]

The Giant longed to see the little boy, who was his favorite among the children. This is evident from the text where the Giant often spoke of him, expressing his desire to see him again.

Key Concept: The Child’s Invitation

b) To come with him to his garden, which is paradise.

[Solution Description]

After the Giant knelt before him in awe, the child smiled and extended an invitation to his own garden, which he referred to as paradise. This invitation signifies the ultimate reward for the Giant’s change of heart and his willingness to embrace love and forgiveness. It represents the idea that those who show kindness and humility will be welcomed into a place of eternal peace and happiness.

Key Concept: The Little Boy’s Disappearance

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The story describes how the Giant saw a wonderful sight in his garden, where a tree was covered with white blossoms, and beneath it stood the little boy he had loved. The child had wounds on his hands and feet, which were identified as “the wounds of Love.” This encounter led the Giant to realize the true beauty of children, as the child represented innocence and love. Therefore, the assertion is true, and the reason correctly explains why the Giant came to this realization.

Key Concept: Character Analysis, Symbolism

a) Innocence of childhood

[Solution Description]

The tree covered with lovely white blossoms symbolizes purity and the presence of something divine or miraculous. In the context of the story, it represents the little boy and his significance to the Giant. The golden branches and silver fruit further emphasize the extraordinary nature of this tree, suggesting that it is a manifestation of the boy’s spiritual or heavenly essence.

Key Concept: Interpretation

b) The boy has wounds that symbolize love

[Solution Description]

The Giant realizes that the little boy has wounds on his hands and feet, which are described as “the wounds of Love.” This realization fills him with awe and leads him to kneel before the child.

Key Concept: Understanding the Garden’s Transformation

c) The garden breaks into blossom.

[Solution Description]

After the Giant helps the little boy by placing him on the tree, the garden undergoes a significant transformation. The tree breaks into blossom, and the birds come and sing on it. This signifies the return of spring and life to the garden, which had been stuck in winter due to the Giant’s selfishness. The garden becoming lively again reflects the positive change in the Giant’s heart and actions.

Key Concept: Understanding the Giant’s Transformation

c) The Giant transforms from selfishness to kindness.

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s act of helping the little boy signifies a transformation in his character. Initially, he was selfish and kept the children out of his garden, causing winter to persist. However, upon seeing the little boy crying and unable to reach the tree, his heart melts, and he decides to help the boy. This act shows that the Giant has realized his selfishness and has become kind and compassionate, willing to make sacrifices for the happiness of others.

Key Concept: Dialogue Interpretation

b) “Who hath dared to wound thee?”

[Solution Description]

The Giant asked, “Who hath dared to wound thee?” and expressed his desire to take his big sword and slay the person responsible for the wounds.

Key Concept: Character Reaction

b) He grew red with anger

[Solution Description]

The Giant grew red with anger when he noticed the wounds on the child’s hands and feet. He demanded to know who had dared to wound the child so that he could take his big sword and slay the perpetrator.

Key Concept: Character Interaction

b) Who hath dared to wound thee?

[Solution Description]

The Giant asked the little boy, “Who hath dared to wound thee?” because he saw the prints of two nails on the child’s palms and feet.

Key Concept: Plot Development, Theme

c) It symbolizes the Giant’s spiritual awakening and redemption.

[Solution Description]

The significance lies in the fact that the farthest corner of the garden represents a place of personal transformation and spiritual awakening for the Giant. The boy’s presence there symbolizes forgiveness, love, and the ultimate redemption for the Giant.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Love

b) He planned to take his big sword and slay the person

[Solution Description]

The Giant planned to take his big sword and slay the person who had dared to wound the child.

Key Concept: Giant’s Reaction, Emotional Response

d) He was furious at the person who wounded the child.

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s face grew red with anger because he was deeply upset by the sight of the child’s wounds. This reaction shows his protective and caring nature towards the child. His anger is directed at whoever caused the child’s suffering, as he immediately wants to take revenge.

Key Concept: Theme, Spiritual Meaning

c) Redemption and eternal happiness

[Solution Description]

The boy invites the Giant to his garden, which he describes as paradise. This signifies redemption and eternal happiness for the Giant, who has shown kindness and allowed the boy to play in his garden. It represents the spiritual reward for the Giant’s change of heart.

Key Concept: The Second Meeting with the Boy

b) They were the wounds of Love

[Solution Description]

The child told the Giant that the wounds on his hands and feet were the wounds of Love. This statement revealed the deeper meaning behind the scars.

Key Concept: Comprehension

c) Angry

[Solution Description]

The text states that when the Giant came quite close to the child, his face grew red with anger. This indicates he felt angry upon seeing the child’s wounds.

Key Concept: Theme, Interpretation

c) A mark of his redemption and peaceful death

[Solution Description]

The Giant being found dead under the tree covered with white blossoms signifies his redemption and peaceful passing into paradise. The white blossoms symbolize purity and eternal peace, indicating that the Giant has been granted entry into the boy’s garden, which represents paradise.

Key Concept: Analysis

b) He recognizes the child’s authority

[Solution Description]

The Giant kneels before the child because he feels a strange awe and recognizes the divine nature of the child, understanding that the child is not an ordinary being.

Key Concept: The Selfish Giant

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The Assertion states that the Giant’s anger towards the wounds on the boy’s hands and feet shows his protective nature. This is true because the Giant immediately reacts with anger when he sees the wounds, showing concern for the boy. The Reason states that the boy explains these wounds are the “wounds of Love,” indicating a deeper spiritual meaning. This is also true as the boy’s response reveals that the wounds symbolize love and sacrifice. However, the Reason does not explain why the Giant is protective; it only offers an interpretation of the wounds. Therefore, both statements are true, but the Reason does not explain the Assertion.

Key Concept: The Giant’s Realization

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant’s anger towards the child was justified because he believed the child had been wounded by someone else. This is true as the text mentions the Giant’s reaction: “Who hath dared to wound thee?” For on the palms of the child’s hands were the prints of two nails, and the prints of two nails were on the little feet. The reason states that the Giant’s realization of the child’s wounds and his protective nature led him to want to seek revenge. This is also true, as the Giant immediately reacts with anger and a desire to protect the child by saying, “tell me, that I may take my big sword and slay him.” However, the reason does not explain why the Giant’s anger was justified; it only describes his emotional response. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Symbolism

c) Purity and divine presence.

[Solution Description]

The tree covered with lovely white blossoms symbolizes purity and divine presence, as it stands in the farthest corner of the garden where the Giant finds the child he had loved. The golden branches and silver fruit further emphasize its sacred nature.

Key Concept: Symbolism, Interpretation

b) Peace and divine love

[Solution Description]

The tree covered with white blossoms in “The Selfish Giant” symbolizes peace and divine love. It appears when the little boy, who represents Jesus, returns to the garden. The blossoms signify purity, peace, and the presence of a higher spiritual realm. The Giant’s reaction to the child’s wounds further emphasizes the theme of sacrifice and redemption.

Key Concept: Themes and Moral Lessons

c) A Christ-like figure teaching love and sacrifice

[Solution Description]

The little child with the marks of nails represents a Christ-like figure. He teaches the Giant and the readers about the redemptive power of love and sacrifice. This character symbolizes divine love and forgiveness, guiding the Giant towards redemption and acceptance into a higher, divine realm.

Key Concept: Generosity

b) He knocked down the wall and let the children play in his garden.

[Solution Description] After realizing his selfishness, the Giant decided to knock down the wall and allow the children to play in his garden forever. This act shows his transformation from being selfish to generous.

Key Concept: Character Transformation

d) He knocked down the wall and allowed children to play

[Solution Description] The Giant realized his selfishness when he saw the little boy crying. He put the boy on top of the tree, knocked down the wall, and declared the garden as the children’s playground. This change of heart led to the return of Spring, birds, and blossoms to the garden.

Key Concept: Moral Lesson, Character Development

d) Because the Giant’s kindness transforms the garden

[Solution Description]

The Spring returns to the Giant’s garden because the Giant’s heart melts, and he becomes kind and generous. Initially, his selfishness causes the garden to remain in winter. However, when he decides to let the children play in the garden, his act of kindness brings back the Spring. This illustrates the moral lesson that kindness and generosity can transform one’s surroundings and bring joy and life.

Key Concept: Symbolism of Nature

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant’s garden remained in perpetual winter due to his selfishness and exclusion of children. This is true as the story explicitly mentions that the Spring refused to visit the garden because the Giant was selfish. The reason claims that the natural elements like Snow, Frost, North Wind, and Hail symbolize the consequences of the Giant’s selfishness. This is also true because these elements are described as staying in the garden as a result of the Giant’s actions. Furthermore, the Reason correctly explains the Assertion because the presence of these elements directly reflects the consequences of the Giant’s selfish behavior.

Key Concept: Themes and Moral Lessons, Spring represents happiness and love

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

In “The Selfish Giant,” the Giant initially builds a wall around his garden to prevent children from playing there. This act of selfishness causes the garden to remain in Winter indefinitely, as Spring refuses to come. The assertion that the garden was perpetually in Winter due to the Giant’s refusal to let children play is true, as stated in the text: “So it was always Winter there.” The reason provided, that the arrival of the children brought back Spring, is also true, as evidenced by the Giant’s realization: “now I know why the Spring would not come here.” When the Giant allows the children to return, Spring immediately follows, symbolizing the restoration of happiness and love. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Symbolism, Theme

b) barrenness and desolation

[Solution Description] The presence of Snow, Frost, North Wind, and Hail symbolizes the Giant’s selfishness and the resulting sadness and isolation in his garden. These elements create a perpetual winter, which contrasts with the warmth and life associated with Spring and Summer. The text describes how these elements dominate the garden, emphasizing the cold and lifeless state caused by the Giant’s actions.

Key Concept: Spirituality and Redemption

c) The power of love and redemption

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s transformation symbolizes spiritual redemption and the power of love. Initially, he is selfish and excludes others, leading to perpetual winter in his garden. However, when he allows the children to play in his garden, spring returns, symbolizing renewal and forgiveness. His final act of selflessness leads to his redemption and entry into paradise.

Key Concept: Christ-like figure symbolism

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion is true because the boy’s wounds on his hands and feet are symbolic of the crucifixion of Christ, as mentioned in syllabus. The reason is also true as it explains why the boy is considered a Christ-like figure. Moreover, the reason directly explains the assertion by providing the symbolic meaning behind the wounds.

Key Concept: The Giant’s transformation leads him to Paradise

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Giant’s transformation is due to his realization of the beauty and importance of children in his garden. This is true as the Giant, after seeing the little boy crying, realizes his selfishness and decides to change. The reason states that the Giant’s heart melted when he saw the little boy crying, which led him to knock down the wall and allow children to play in his garden forever. This is also true and directly explains the assertion. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Wounds of Love, Redemption

d) The symbolism of selfless love and sacrifice

[Solution Description]

The wounds on the child’s hands and feet signify the concept of selfless love and sacrifice. They are symbolic of the suffering endured for the sake of others, mirroring the Giant’s own transformation through acts of love and sharing. The child’s wounds emphasize the divine nature of such sacrifices.

Key Concept: True Happiness and Sharing

c) The Giant did not allow the children to play in it.

[Solution Description]

The Giant’s garden remained in winter because he was selfish and did not allow the children to play in it. When he changed his heart and allowed the children back, spring returned.