NCERT solutions for Class 11 English Chapter The Tale of Melon City – complete answers & explanations

This blog provides NCERT solutions for Class 11 English Chapter The Tale of Melon City. The poem written by Vikram Seth presents a humorous and satirical story about a king who is known to be just and calm. Through a series of absurd events related to justice and punishment, the poem highlights the foolishness of blindly following rules and decisions without practical thinking. The poem ends with a strange but amusing situation where a melon becomes the ruler of the city. These solutions provide complete answers strictly based on the worksheet so that students can understand the questions clearly and prepare effectively for exams.

What this NCERT chapter covers?

1. The story of a king who wants justice in his kingdom.
2. The construction of an arch that accidentally knocks off the king’s crown.
3. The king’s attempt to punish someone for the mistake.
4. The humorous chain of blame among the builders, workmen, masons, and architect.
5. The ironic situation where the king himself is eventually hanged.
6. The unusual decision of the ministers to make a melon the next king.

How to use these NCERT solutions?

1. Students should first read the poem carefully to understand the sequence of events and the humour in the story.
2. Try answering the questions on your own before checking the solutions.
3. Compare your answers with the provided solutions to understand the main ideas of the poem.
4. Teachers and parents can guide students in identifying the satire and irony used in the poem.
5. The answers follow the exact order of the worksheet questions for easy reference.

Important tips & tricks for students

1. Understand the satirical tone of the poem and the message about justice and governance.
2. Focus on the sequence of events that lead to the unusual ending of the story.
3. Write answers clearly using the incidents described in the poem.
4. Keep answers concise and directly related to the question.
5. Pay attention to examples of humour and irony used by the poet.

NCERT solutions – complete answer key

Reading with Insight

1. Narrate ‘The Tale of Melon City’ in your own words.

The poem tells the story of a king who ordered the construction of a large arch over the main road of the city. When the king rode under the arch, it knocked his crown off because it had been built too low. The king became angry and ordered that someone must be punished. One by one, the blame was passed from the chief builder to the workmen, then to the masons, and finally to the architect. The architect argued that the king himself had changed the design. The king then consulted the wisest man in the country, who suggested that the arch should be punished. However, the ministers objected. Finally, the king insisted that someone must be hanged immediately. Since the noose fit only the king’s height, the king himself was executed. Later, the ministers decided that the next person passing through the city gate would choose the new ruler. An idiot passing by suggested a melon, so the ministers crowned a melon as the king.

2. What impression would you form of a state where the King was ‘just and placid’?

A state ruled by such a king might appear orderly and calm, but the poem shows that excessive or unreasonable justice can lead to foolish decisions. The king tries to enforce justice strictly, but his decisions become irrational and unfair. This creates confusion and ultimately leads to an absurd outcome.

3. How, according to you, can peace and liberty be maintained in a state?

Peace and liberty in a state can be maintained through fair laws, responsible leadership, and respect for the rights of citizens. Leaders should make decisions wisely and ensure that justice is practical and reasonable. Cooperation between the government and citizens is important to maintain harmony and stability.

4. Suggest a few instances in the poem which highlight humour and irony.

The poem contains several humorous and ironic situations. For example, the king’s attempt to punish someone for the arch being too low results in a chain of blame among different people. Another example is when the wisest man suggests hanging the arch itself. The greatest irony occurs when the king is the only person tall enough to fit the noose and is therefore executed. Finally, the ministers crowning a melon as the king adds to the humour and satire of the poem.

5. ‘The Tale of Melon City’ has been narrated in a verse form. This is a unique style which lends extra charm to an ancient tale. Find similar examples in your language. Share them in the class.

Answers may vary.

Why NCERT solutions help students?

NCERT solutions help students understand the themes, humour, and message of the poem clearly. These answers follow the NCERT pattern and help students prepare effectively for exam questions. Practising these solutions improves writing skills, strengthens concept clarity, and builds confidence for examinations.