Which statement best captures the central theme of ‘The Proposal’?
Answer
(b) Human folly is often rooted in trivial concerns
The correct answer is (b) Human folly is often rooted in trivial concerns — Select the option that aligns with the recurring motif of trivial concerns causing serious consequences.
Step-by-step solution
- Read the whole story and note the repeated petty arguments between Lomov and Natalya.
- Observe that their potential marriage is threatened by insignificant disputes over a garden, a dog, and a hayfield.
- Recognise that Chekhov emphasizes the absurdity of human behaviour rather than a triumph of love or social commentary.
- Compare each option with these observations: love conquering obstacles (a) is not shown; social class differences (c) are not central; the idyll of rural life (d) is not the focus.
- Select the option that aligns with the recurring motif of trivial concerns causing serious consequences.
Common mistake: Choosing ‘Love conquers all obstacles’ because the story involves a marriage proposal.
Concept tested: Identify theme
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
Related questions
- 1 What is the primary setting of Anton Chekhov’s story ‘The Proposal’?
- 2 Analyse the use of dramatic irony in the conclusion of ‘The Proposal’ and discuss how it adds to the comedic effect of the story.
- 3 Which of the following best describes the tone of the dialogue between Lomov and Natalya’s father in ‘The Proposal’?
- 4 Explain how the argument over the garden in ‘The Proposal’ reveals the personalities of Lomov and Natalya.
- 5 In Anton Chekhov’s story ‘The Proposal’, what is the relationship between Stepanov and Natalya?
- 6 Which statement best expresses the central theme of 'Bholi'?