The Post Office by Rabindranath Tagore Questions and Answers
Very Short Answer Questions
Q: Who is the author of “The Post Office”?
A: The author of “The Post Office” is Rabindranath Tagore.
Q: Who is the protagonist of the play?
A: The protagonist of the play is Amal.
Q: What does Amal symbolize in the play?
A: Amal symbolizes the eternal soul that yearns for liberation.
Q: Who is Madhav in the play?
A: Madhav is the adoptive father of Amal in the play.
Q: What does the post office represent in the play?
A: The post office represents hope and a connection to the outside world for Amal.
Q: Who is Sudha in the play?
A: Sudha is a young flower seller and a friend of Amal.
Q: What does the village physician symbolize in the play?
A: The village physician symbolizes the practical and often limiting perspective of the adult world.
Q: Who is the Royal Physician in the play?
A: The Royal Physician is sent by the King to attend to Amal.
Q: What does the King’s Herald symbolize in the play?
A: The King’s Herald symbolizes royal authority and power.
Q: What is a major theme of the play?
A: A major theme of the play is liberation and freedom.
Q: What does Amal’s window symbolize in the play?
A: Amal’s window symbolizes his longing for freedom and his desire to be a part of the world beyond his room.
Q: What does the bell symbolize in the play?
A: The bell in the play is a symbol of time and its passage.
Q: What do fairy tales symbolize in the play?
A: Fairy tales in the play symbolize hope, dreams, and the power of imagination.
Q: What language was “The Post Office” originally written in?
A: “The Post Office” was originally written in Bengali.
Q: When was “The Post Office” first published?
A: “The Post Office” was first published in 1912.
Q: Who is Gaffer in the play?
A: Gaffer, also known as Fakir in the play, is a spiritual wanderer.
Q: What does death symbolize in the play?
A: In the play, death symbolizes a beginning rather than an ending.
Q: What is the setting of the play?
A: The play is set in contemporary rural Bengal.
Q: What does Amal dream of becoming when he grows up?
A: Amal dreams of becoming a postman when he grows up.
Q: What happens to Amal at the end of the play?
A: At the end of the play, Amal passes away.
Short Answer Questions
Q: What is the central theme of “The Post Office”?
A: The theme of death and deliverance is central to the play. Amal’s eventual death is not portrayed as an end, but rather as a form of liberation. This perspective on death is unique and thought-provoking. It suggests that death is not something to be feared, but rather a form of deliverance from the physical constraints of life. This theme is further emphasized by the character of the postman, who brings messages from the king, symbolizing the call of death.
Q: How does Rabindranath Tagore use symbolism in “The Post Office”?
A: Tagore uses symbolism extensively in “The Post Office”. For instance, the post office represents hope and a connection to the outside world for Amal. Amal’s window symbolizes his longing for freedom and his desire to be a part of the world beyond his room. The bell in the play is a symbol of time and its passage. Fairy tales in the play symbolize hope, dreams, and the power of imagination.
Q: Who is Amal in “The Post Office” and what does he symbolize?
A: Amal is the protagonist of the play. He is an orphan boy who has been adopted by Madhav. Despite his serious illness and confinement to his bed, Amal’s spirit remains unbroken. His character symbolizes the free spirit that yearns for liberation from physical constraints.
Q: How does “The Post Office” explore the theme of human connection?
A: The play explores the human desire for connection. Despite his physical confinement, Amal establishes connections with various characters through his window. These interactions highlight the importance of human connection and the power of communication.
Q: What is the significance of the post office in the play?
A: The post office is a central symbol in the play. It represents hope and a connection to the outside world for Amal. It also symbolizes the power of communication and the importance of human connection.
Q: How does the play present death?
A: The play presents death as a beginning rather than an ending. The death of Amal in the play is not a physical death but has a symbolic significance. It represents the end of the spiritual bondage of the soul and the beginning of a new journey.
Q: Who is Madhav in the play and what is his role?
A: Madhav is the adoptive father of Amal. He is a caring and protective figure, deeply concerned about Amal’s health. He follows the advice of the village physician and keeps Amal confined within a small room.
Q: What is the role of the village physician in the play?
A: The village physician is responsible for Amal’s medical care. He advises Madhav to keep Amal confined to his room as his contact with the wind and sun is considered harmful.
Q: Who is Sudha in the play and what is her relationship with Amal?
A: Sudha is a young flower seller and a friend of Amal. She often interacts with him. Her character brings a touch of innocence and simplicity to the play.
Q: How does “The Post Office” explore the power of imagination?
A: The play highlights the power of imagination. Amal’s imagination allows him to transcend his physical limitations and connect with the world outside his room. His dreams and fantasies bring joy and meaning to his life.
