King Porus Legend of Old Questions and Answers
Very Short Answer Questions
Who is the poet of “King Porus”?
Michael Madhusudan Dutt.
When was Michael Madhusudan Dutt born?
January 25, 1824.
Which historical figure is the poem “King Porus” about?
King Porus.
Which conqueror does King Porus face in the poem?
Alexander the Great.
What natural event opens the poem?
A violent storm.
What does the storm symbolize in the poem?
The impending invasion and disaster.
How are the Indian warriors described when they go into battle?
They are compared to lions, showing their bravery.
Who is astonished by King Porus’ bravery in the poem?
Alexander the Great.
What metaphor is used for King Porus’ strength?
He is compared to a Himalayan peak.
What animal does King Porus ride into battle?
A white elephant.
What does Alexander do when he sees King Porus bleeding?
He halts the battle and offers peace.
How does King Porus respond to Alexander’s offer of peace?
He stands tall, refusing to kneel or show submission.
What symbol of India is trampled down after the battle?
The crown, symbolizing India’s lost sovereignty.
How is India described after its conquest in the final stanza?
Like a tree stripped of fruits, blossoms, and leaves.
What does the poem lament in the final stanza?
The loss of India’s glory and freedom.
What does the speaker ask in the final stanza about King Porus?
Where is Porus now?
What do the Indian warriors sacrifice themselves for in the battle?
For freedom.
What does Alexander recognize about Porus after the battle?
His nobility and royal dignity.
What type of imagery is used to describe the battlefield?
Sacrificial imagery, likening it to an altar of blood.
How are Indian warriors compared to nature in the poem?
They are likened to mountain oaks struck down by thunder.
What type of literary device is used when Porus is compared to a chained lion?
Simile.
What does the “crown” in the poem symbolize?
India’s lost freedom and sovereignty.
What question does the speaker ask about freedom in the final stanza?
Where is freedom now?
How does the poem describe the conquerors of India?
As tyrants driven by lust for power.
What does Alexander express about Porus’ blood?
He believes such noble blood should not be shed.
What does the flag represent when peace is offered?
The end of war and the beginning of peace.
What is King Porus’ demeanor when meeting Alexander?
Bold and undismayed.
What natural element is King Porus compared to during battle?
A rock standing against the lashing billows of the ocean.
What does the poem suggest about India’s past glory?
It has vanished like a dream.
What does the speaker mourn in the closing lines?
The exploitation and humiliation of India by its conquerors.
Short Answer Questions
What role does the storm play at the beginning of the poem?
The storm in the opening stanza symbolizes the impending invasion and destruction. It foreshadows the chaos and tragedy that will soon engulf India. Despite the warning from nature, the people of India remain unaware, representing their unpreparedness for the enemy’s stealthy approach.
How does Dutt describe the Indian warriors in battle?
Dutt describes the Indian warriors as brave and determined, comparing them to lions. They charge into battle with the aim of defending their freedom or dying with honor. Despite their courage, they are ultimately overpowered by the Macedonian forces, emphasizing their noble but tragic sacrifice.
What qualities of King Porus are highlighted in the poem?
King Porus is depicted as a fearless, strong, and regal figure. He stands like a towering Himalayan peak amidst the battle, refusing to back down even when surrounded by enemies. His bravery, nobility, and unyielding spirit are emphasized throughout the poem, earning him the respect of even his enemy, Alexander.
How does Alexander react to King Porus’ bravery?
Alexander, astonished by Porus’ courage and resilience, halts the battle when he sees him wounded. He recognizes that such noble blood should not be shed, and out of admiration for Porus’ valor, he offers him peace. This reaction underscores the mutual respect between the two leaders.
What does the imagery of the “lion chain’d” in stanza V signify?
The image of Porus as a “lion chain’d” symbolizes his strength, pride, and regal nature, even in defeat. Though he is wounded and captive, his spirit remains unbroken. The lion imagery suggests that although Porus is restrained, his inner power and defiance still shine through.
What is the significance of the crown being “tramped down” in the poem?
The “crown” in the poem symbolizes India’s sovereignty and freedom, which have been trampled by foreign invaders. It represents the loss of national dignity and independence. This image highlights the tragic decline of a once-great nation, now reduced to subjugation and exploitation by conquerors.
How does the poem reflect on the loss of India’s glory?
The poem laments the loss of India’s former glory, comparing it to a fleeting dream or sunbeams that fade away at twilight. Once a radiant and prosperous land, India has now been stripped of its wealth, pride, and freedom. The poem expresses deep sorrow for this decline, portraying India as a fallen, barren tree.
How is the theme of freedom addressed in the poem?
Freedom is personified and portrayed as a lost treasure in the poem. The speaker reflects on how India once basked in freedom and glory, but now that freedom has vanished, leaving the nation in subjugation. The poem questions where this “fair Freedom” has gone, underscoring the longing for its return.
How does the poem depict the relationship between King Porus and Alexander?
Despite being on opposite sides of the battle, the poem portrays a relationship of mutual respect between King Porus and Alexander. Porus’ bravery and defiance earn Alexander’s admiration, leading him to offer peace. In turn, Porus maintains his dignity and pride, refusing to bow even in defeat, which further impresses Alexander.
What is the overall tone of the poem, especially in the final stanza?
The tone of the poem is mournful and reflective, particularly in the final stanza. The speaker laments the loss of India’s freedom, wealth, and dignity. The poem’s tone conveys deep sorrow for the decline of the nation and a longing for the heroic past, where figures like King Porus fought for freedom and glory.
