Class eleven and twelve || Unit Two: Art and Craft Lesson 1 What is Beauty || English first paper || Bangla meaning, word meaning, text questions and answer || Poem and summary
Textbook page 30,31,32 & 33 || Class eleven and twelve || Unit Two: Art and Craft Lesson 1 What is Beauty || English first paper || Bangla meaning, word meaning, text questions and answer || Poem and summary
Unit Two: Art and Craft
Lesson 1 What is Beauty
Beauty is easy to appreciate but difficult to define. As we look around, we discover beauty in pleasurable objects and sights in nature, in the laughter of children, in the kindness of strangers. But when asked to define it, we run into difficulties. Does beauty have an independent, objective identity? Is it universal, or is it shaped by individual perceptions? Does it truly lie in the eye of the beholder? -we ask ourselves.
Throughout history, poets and artists have described beauty in different ways. Poets make use of words to paint images of beauty, while artists create representations of beauty using their creative faculties.
Here are two poems that explore the theme of beauty. While Lord Byron (1788-1824) finds perfect beauty in a woman he idealizes. Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) asserts that beauty is inseparable from truth. Read the poems and complete the activities that follow.
She Walks in Beauty' by Lord Byron
She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes;
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.
One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o'er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express,
How pure, how dear their dwelling-place.
And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,
So soft, so calm. yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below.
A heart whose love is innocent!
'I Died For Beauty' by Emily Dickinson
I died for beauty, but was scarce
Adjusted in the tomb,
When one who died for truth was lain
In an adjoining room.
He questioned softly why I failed?
"For beauty." I replied.
"And I for truth the two are one;
We brethren are," he said.
And so, as kinsmen met a-night,
We talked between the rooms,
Until the moss had reached our lips,
And covered up our names.
C. Discuss the following questions in pairs.
a. The poem "She Walks in Beauty" by Byron centres around a woman. What do you learn about her through the speaker's descriptions?
b. The speaker in Byron's poem praises the fine features of the woman he admires her face, eyes, hair, cheek, brow, smile, and skin. Find the lines in the poem that mention these features and describe what the speaker says about them.
c. In the last stanza, the speaker in Byron's poem suggests that his muse's outer beauty is a testament to her inner goodness and innocence. Do you agree with this view? Explain your reasoning.
d. "The glorification of physical beauty in "She Walks in Beauty" reflects the unrealistic beauty standards that society often places on women." Do you agree? Justify your opinion.
e. The poem "I Died for Beauty" by Dickinson presents a conversation between two individuals. Who are the speakers, and where are they?
f. In "I Died for Beauty", Dickinson creates a scene that is both frightening and comforting. Explain how she achieves this effect through the imagery in the poem.
g. In Dickinson's poem, the man who died for truth suggests that truth and beauty are the same. Do you agree with this idea? Explain your reasoning.
h. While Byron's poem primarily focuses on physical beauty, Dickinson offers a more philosophical perspective on what beauty is. Compare the depiction of beauty in the two poems and discuss which view of beauty you agree with.
D. Complete the story below in 200 words. Once finished, read your story to your friends.
Once there was a young artist in a remote village in Bangladesh. His name was Rabbi. He was asked by his mentor to draw the most beautiful object in the world. But Rabbi was confused about what that most beautiful thing could be. Every morning, he would rise early, go out, and roam the streets, shops, playgrounds, schools, and the nearby orchards and river, searching for something truly beautiful. Then one day...
সৌন্দর্য সহজে উপভোগ করা যায় কিন্তু এটি সংজ্ঞায়িত করা কঠিন। চারপাশে তাকালে আমরা সৌন্দর্য আবিষ্কার করি – প্রকৃতির মনোরম দৃশ্য, শিশুদের হাসি, অপরিচিতদের উদারতায়। কিন্তু যখন সৌন্দর্যের সংজ্ঞা দিতে বলা হয়, তখন আমরা সমস্যার মুখোমুখি হই। সৌন্দর্যের কি একটি স্বতন্ত্র, বস্তুগত পরিচয় রয়েছে? এটি কি সর্বজনীন, নাকি ব্যক্তিগত দৃষ্টিভঙ্গির দ্বারা প্রভাবিত? এটি কি সত্যিই দর্শকের চোখে বিরাজমান? – আমরা এ প্রশ্ন করি নিজেদের।
ইতিহাস জুড়ে, কবি এবং শিল্পীরা বিভিন্নভাবে সৌন্দর্য বর্ণনা করেছেন। কবিরা শব্দ ব্যবহার করে সৌন্দর্যের চিত্র আঁকেন, আর শিল্পীরা তাদের সৃজনশীল দক্ষতা দিয়ে সৌন্দর্যের উপস্থাপন করেন।
এখানে সৌন্দর্য নিয়ে দুটি কবিতা দেওয়া হলো। লর্ড বায়রন (১৭৮৮-১৮২৪) এক মহিলার মধ্যে নিখুঁত সৌন্দর্য খুঁজে পেয়েছেন, যাকে তিনি আদর্শায়িত করেছেন। অন্যদিকে এমিলি ডিকিনসন (১৮৩০-১৮৮৬) বলেছেন, সৌন্দর্য সত্য থেকে অবিচ্ছেদ্য। নিচের কবিতাগুলো পড়ুন এবং পরবর্তী কার্যক্রমগুলো সম্পন্ন করুন।
লর্ড বায়রনের "She Walks in Beauty" (বাংলা অনুবাদ)
সে সৌন্দর্যে ভাসে, যেন রাত্রি
মেঘহীন আকাশ আর তারাভরা রাত;
অন্ধকার আর আলোর সেরা উপহার
মিলিত হয় তার চেহারা ও চোখে;
এবং গৌরবময় দিনের তুলনায়
স্বর্গ যেই কোমল আলো দেয়।
এক ছায়া বেশি, এক রশ্মি কম,
হয়তো ক্ষুণ্ন করত নামহীন সৌন্দর্য,
যা ঢেউ খেলে তার কালো কেশে,
অথবা কোমলভাবে জ্বলে তার মুখে;
যেখানে মিষ্টি চিন্তা প্রকাশ করে,
কত পবিত্র ও প্রিয় তাদের বাসস্থান।
তার গালে এবং কপালের উপর,
নরম, শান্ত, তবু বলিষ্ঠ ভাষা,
যে হাসি জয় করে, যে রঙ জ্বলে,
সেগুলো বলে দেয় সৎ জীবনের গল্প,
একটি মন পৃথিবীর সবার সাথে শান্তিতে।
একটি হৃদয়, যার ভালোবাসা পবিত্র।
এমিলি ডিকিনসনের "I Died for Beauty" (বাংলা অনুবাদ)
আমি সৌন্দর্যের জন্য মরেছিলাম, তবে
কবরের সাথে সবে মানিয়ে নিয়েছি,
যখন কেউ সত্যের জন্য মরে
আমার পাশের ঘরে শায়িত হলো।
সে মৃদুস্বরে জানতে চাইল, কেন আমি ব্যর্থ হলাম?
“সৌন্দর্যের জন্য,” আমি উত্তর দিলাম।
“আর আমি সত্যের জন্য—দু’টি এক,
আমরা ভাই,” সে বলল।
তবু, যখন রাত্রি নেমে এল,
আমরা ঘরের মাঝে কথা বললাম,
যতক্ষণ না শ্যাওলা আমাদের ঠোঁট ছুঁলো,
এবং নাম ঢেকে দিল।
Textbook Answer Question No. C
Discussion Points
a. The poem "She Walks in Beauty" by Byron centers around a woman. What do you learn about her through the speaker's descriptions?
Through the speaker's descriptions, we learn that the woman embodies a harmonious blend of physical beauty and inner grace. Her beauty is described as radiant and serene, comparable to the calm and majestic qualities of a cloudless night filled with stars. Her appearance is a reflection of her pure and peaceful soul.
b. The speaker in Byron's poem praises the fine features of the woman he admires. Find the lines in the poem that mention these features and describe what the speaker says about them.
- "Her aspect and her eyes;" – Her eyes reflect both darkness and light, symbolizing balance and depth.
- "Waves in every raven tress," – Her dark hair adds to her elegance and grace.
- "Softly lightens o'er her face;" – Her face exudes a tender, serene light.
- "On that cheek, and o'er that brow," – Her cheeks and brow display calmness and softness, reflecting her inner goodness.
- "The smiles that win, the tints that glow," – Her smile is enchanting, and her skin radiates warmth and vitality.
c. In the last stanza, the speaker in Byron's poem suggests that his muse's outer beauty is a testament to her inner goodness and innocence. Do you agree with this view? Explain your reasoning.
This perspective could be agreed upon as the poem portrays beauty as a harmonious interplay of physical and moral attributes. However, one might argue that outer beauty does not always signify inner goodness, as they are independent qualities. The poem reflects an idealized view rather than a universal truth.
d. "The glorification of physical beauty in She Walks in Beauty reflects the unrealistic beauty standards that society often places on women." Do you agree? Justify your opinion.
This is a valid critique, as the poem emphasizes physical perfection and associates it with moral purity, which can perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards. However, Byron's focus on harmony and inner grace suggests he views beauty holistically, rather than purely physically.
e. The poem "I Died for Beauty" by Dickinson presents a conversation between two individuals. Who are the speakers, and where are they?
The speakers are two individuals who have died—one for beauty and the other for truth. They are placed in adjoining tombs and converse as they settle into their eternal rest.
f. In "I Died for Beauty," Dickinson creates a scene that is both frightening and comforting. Explain how she achieves this effect through the imagery in the poem.
Dickinson uses the imagery of the tomb and the slow encroachment of moss to evoke the inevitability of death, which can feel eerie. However, the companionship between the two speakers and their shared connection in death creates a sense of solace and unity.
g. In Dickinson's poem, the man who died for truth suggests that truth and beauty are the same. Do you agree with this idea? Explain your reasoning.
One might agree that truth and beauty are interconnected because both can represent a deeper understanding of life and existence. Alternatively, one could argue they are distinct concepts—truth pertains to knowledge and facts, while beauty often relates to aesthetic or emotional experiences.
h. While Byron's poem primarily focuses on physical beauty, Dickinson offers a more philosophical perspective on what beauty is. Compare the depiction of beauty in the two poems and discuss which view of beauty you agree with.
Byron's poem glorifies physical beauty and its reflection of inner virtue, while Dickinson’s poem presents beauty as a profound, abstract concept interconnected with truth and human existence. Those who value external aesthetics might resonate with Byron, whereas those drawn to philosophical or intellectual ideals might prefer Dickinson’s perspective.
Question D. Complete the story below in 200 words. Once finished, read your story to your friends.
Once there was a young artist in a remote village in Bangladesh. His name was Rabbi. He was asked by his mentor to draw the most beautiful object in the world. But Rabbi was confused about what that most beautiful thing could be. Every morning, he would rise early, go out, and roam the streets, shops, playgrounds, schools, and the nearby orchards and river, searching for something truly beautiful. Then one day...
Answer Question No. D
...he saw an elderly woman sitting by the riverbank. Her face was lined with age, but her eyes sparkled with warmth as she smiled at a group of children playing nearby. The children ran to her, laughing and chattering, and she handed them pieces of fruit she had picked from the nearby orchard. Rabbi watched as her weathered hands gently tousled a child’s hair, her voice soft and kind.
Intrigued, he approached her and asked, “Grandmother, why do you sit here every day?” She smiled and replied, “I come to watch the world—its laughter, its struggles, and its joy. Beauty is everywhere if you know how to see it.”
Rabbi suddenly understood. Beauty wasn’t confined to perfect forms or grand creations; it was in moments of kindness, love, and connection. Inspired, he returned to his workshop and painted a scene: the woman on the riverbank, the children at her feet, the flowing water behind them, and the golden light of the setting sun.
When Rabbi showed the painting to his mentor, the man smiled. “You’ve captured it,” he said. “The most beautiful thing in the world is the love that connects us all.”
Rabbi finally understood the true essence of beauty.
She Walks in Beauty' by Lord Byron
She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes;
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.
One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o'er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express,
How pure, how dear their dwelling-place.
And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,
So soft, so calm. yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below.
A heart whose love is innocent!
Questions and Answers
-
What is the central theme of the poem?
The poem celebrates the harmonious beauty of a woman, blending physical and inner grace. It reflects admiration for her purity and tranquility. -
What imagery does Byron use to describe her beauty?
Byron compares her beauty to a "cloudless night" with "starry skies," combining light and darkness. This imagery conveys her elegance and balance. -
What is meant by "nameless grace"?
"Nameless grace" refers to an indescribable charm and refinement that makes her beauty unique. It suggests an intangible, divine quality. -
How does the poet connect outer beauty with inner virtues?
Byron highlights her serene thoughts and innocence, linking her physical beauty to her pure heart and peaceful mind. He implies that true beauty stems from character. -
What role does light and darkness play in the poem?
Light and darkness symbolize the balance of her physical and inner beauty. Byron emphasizes how her features reflect this perfect harmony. -
Why does the poet describe her smile and glow as eloquent?
Her smile and glow express a silent but profound communication of her goodness. They reflect her virtuous character and peaceful soul. -
What does "a mind at peace with all below" signify?
It signifies her tranquility and contentment with the world around her. This peaceful state enhances her overall grace and appeal. -
Why does the poet contrast "heaven" with "gaudy day"?
Byron contrasts the calm, subtle beauty of heaven with the harshness of "gaudy day" to emphasize her understated elegance. He suggests her beauty transcends the ordinary. -
What is the significance of the phrase "innocent love"?
It highlights her purity and virtue, emphasizing her sincere and genuine emotions. Byron admires her as a model of untainted affection. -
How does the poet convey admiration in the poem?
Byron uses lyrical language, vivid imagery, and metaphors to express his awe. His tone is one of reverence, blending emotional depth with poetic beauty.
Theme of the poem
The theme of "She Walks in Beauty" by Lord Byron revolves around the harmonious union of inner virtue and outward beauty. The poem celebrates a woman whose physical appearance and serene demeanor reflect her purity, grace, and innocence. Byron admires her beauty not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for how it embodies her moral goodness and tranquil spirit. The poem emphasizes the idea that true beauty is a blend of physical attractiveness and inner peace, creating an idealized image of a woman who is perfect in both form and character.
'I Died For Beauty' by Emily Dickinson
I died for beauty, but was scarce
Adjusted in the tomb,
When one who died for truth was lain
In an adjoining room.
He questioned softly why I failed?
"For beauty." I replied.
"And I for truth the two are one;
We brethren are," he said.
And so, as kinsmen met a-night,
We talked between the rooms,
Until the moss had reached our lips,
And covered up our names.
Questions and Answers
-
Why did the speaker die for beauty?
The speaker sacrificed themselves for the ideal of beauty, suggesting a devotion to art or aesthetics. It reflects their belief in beauty's significance, even in death. -
Who is the other person in the poem, and why did they die?
The other person died for truth, symbolizing a commitment to honesty or universal principles. They are portrayed as kindred spirits to the speaker. -
What does the phrase "the two are one" mean?
It signifies the unity of beauty and truth, suggesting they are inseparable and equally essential. Dickinson emphasizes their shared importance in human existence. -
How do the speaker and the other person connect?
They connect as "brethren," recognizing their shared ideals and sacrifices. Their bond transcends death, symbolizing the enduring unity of truth and beauty. -
Why is the conversation between them significant?
The conversation highlights their shared devotion to abstract ideals. It reflects a sense of companionship and mutual understanding in death. -
What does the moss symbolize?
The moss represents the passage of time and the inevitability of forgetting. It shows how even great ideals and their bearers can be obscured by time. -
What role does death play in the poem?
Death serves as a setting where ideals like truth and beauty persist. It unites the two characters, emphasizing the enduring nature of their values. -
Why are truth and beauty portrayed as "kinsmen"?
Truth and beauty are portrayed as interconnected, each complementing the other. Dickinson suggests they are universal principles that transcend individual lives. -
What is the tone of the poem?
The tone is contemplative and somber, reflecting on the transience of life and the permanence of ideals. It carries a quiet reverence for truth and beauty. -
How does the ending contribute to the poem's meaning?
The ending, with the moss covering their names, emphasizes the inevitability of being forgotten. However, it also implies that the ideals they died for endure beyond their physical existence.
The theme of Emily Dickinson's poem "I Died for Beauty" explores the connection between beauty and truth, suggesting that these ideals are intertwined and eternal. The poem uses the conversation between two people who died for these values to highlight their shared significance and the inevitable passage of time.
For class eleven Bangladeshi students, the poem can be understood as a reflection on the sacrifices made for higher ideals like truth and beauty. It teaches that while individuals may fade away, the values they stand for remain timeless. It also emphasizes the unity between beauty and truth, inspiring us to uphold such principles in life, even in the face of challenges or oblivion.
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