NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English Chapter 12 Ajamil and the Tigers
NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English Chapter 12 Ajamil and the Tigers
NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English Chapter Ajamil and the Tigers
This worksheet provides complete and accurate NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English Chapter Ajamil and the Tigers. This chapter is a satirical poem by Arun Kolatkar that presents a literal story of tigers, sheep, and a shepherd named Ajamil while conveying a deeper political message. Through humour and irony, the poem comments on power, diplomacy, deception, and leadership. This worksheet strictly follows the NCERT text and structure to help students prepare effectively.
Ajamil and the Tigers is important for Class 11 English students because it teaches them to understand both literal and figurative meanings. The poem functions as satire and allegory, encouraging readers to think critically about political systems and leadership. These NCERT Solutions are aligned with textbook standards and support clear exam-oriented preparation.
Chapter summary: stories, poems & themes
Ajamil and the Tigers narrates how the tiger people complain to their king about starvation because Ajamil has a new sheepdog who prevents them from attacking sheep. The tiger king attempts an attack but is defeated. Later, through diplomatic manipulation and false friendship, the tigers secure a treaty with Ajamil. Ajamil pretends to believe their lies and signs a pact, ensuring that both sheep and tigers remain fed.
The poem operates on two levels. On the literal level, it tells a story about animals and a shepherd. On the figurative level, it presents a satire on political leadership, diplomacy, and compromise. The themes include power politics, strategic thinking, deception, and the idea of maintaining peace through practical wisdom.
What this NCERT chapter covers?
• Understanding satire and allegory
• Literal and figurative interpretation
• Political symbolism in poetry
• Character analysis of Ajamil and the tiger king
• Critical thinking about leadership and diplomacy
How to use these NCERT solutions?
Students should first read the poem carefully and identify both the surface story and the deeper political meaning. Attempt all questions independently before checking the answers in this worksheet. Parents and teachers can use these solutions to explain satire and symbolism clearly. The answers follow the exact NCERT order for easy revision.
Student tips & learning tricks
• Distinguish between literal and symbolic meanings.
• Focus on the role of Ajamil as a wise shepherd.
• Observe how humour is used to criticise politics.
• Pay attention to words like “pretended” and “seemed.”
• Write answers clearly by connecting them to the poem’s message.
Why NCERT solutions are important?
NCERT Solutions help students stay aligned with the official curriculum and exam pattern. They improve understanding of complex themes like satire and allegory. Accurate textbook-based answers strengthen confidence and analytical skills. These solutions offer dependable academic guidance for Class 11 English learners.
Complete answer key – NCERT solutions
Understanding the poem
1. The poet has chosen tigers and sheep because they symbolise powerful rulers and innocent common people. Tigers represent aggressive political forces, while sheep represent vulnerable citizens. Through these animal characters, the poet conveys a figurative political message in a simple and humorous way.
2. The behaviour of Ajamil illustrates practical diplomacy and political strategy. He pretends to accept the tiger king’s lies but ensures that the tigers are fed so they do not attack the sheep. This reflects realistic political compromise and balance of power.
3. The words “pretended” and “seemed” indicate that Ajamil was aware of the tiger king’s lies but chose to act diplomatically. These words connect with the line “Ajamil wasn’t a fool” by showing that he consciously adopted a strategy rather than being deceived.
4. Ajamil refused to meet the sheepdog’s eyes because the dog symbolised honesty and straightforward action. Ajamil chose a more diplomatic and strategic approach, which the dog could not understand. Avoiding eye contact suggests deliberate political calculation.
5. The phrase “play a flute all day” refers to a peaceful and tension-free life ensured by wise leadership. “A common bond” refers to shared security and stability achieved when both predators and prey are satisfied and peaceful.
6. The poem effectively conveys anger and anguish against the political class through satire. By showing manipulation, false treaties, and strategic compromise, it reflects how common people are often trapped in political systems. The humour makes the criticism sharper and more impactful.
Try this out
Find out the difference between these literary forms
(a) fable: A short story with animals as characters that conveys a moral lesson.
(b) allegory: A narrative in which characters and events symbolise deeper meanings, often political or moral.
(c) satire: A literary form that uses humour, irony, or exaggeration to criticise social or political issues.
Strengthen your understanding of Class 11 English Chapter Ajamil and the Tigers with accurate, NCERT-aligned solutions designed for clear concepts and confident exam preparation.