The Abbot Of Canterbury (Poem 6) - Text Book Exercise - English (Compulsory) For HSC Part 1

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English I (Compulsory)
For HSC Part 1
Poem 6 - The Abbot Of Canterbury

Anonymous (Unknown) Poet

Text Book Exercise

• Pre-reading
• Post-reading (Exercise 1-8)

Pre-reading

"That a fool he may learn a wise man wit."
Predict the theme of the poem after reading the line.
Answer: I think, the theme of the poem would be that the wisdom is not the legacy of any particular faction of the people. It is for the people who try to get it. An illiterate person can be regarded educated for his experience. A seasoned person, having a series of bitter experience, attains more wisdom in comparison to an educated person.

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Post-reading

 Exercise 1: 

Column A has words from the poem; underline these words in the poem. Column B has the contextual meanings of these words, but they are jumbled up. Work in pairs. Try and match the appropriate meaning of each word, and write your answer in column C. Share your work with your partner after you have completed.

NO.	Column A		Column B	Column C
1.	Ancient	A	Soon	Primitive (F)
2.	Merry	B	Nobleman	Happy (H)
3.	Anon	C	Plan	Soon (A)
4.	Renown	D.	Forgiveness	Fame (J)
5.	Fold	E	Joke	Enclosure (I)
6.	Gallant	F	Primitive	Brave (G)
7.	Jest	G	Brave	Joke (E)
8.	Pardon	H	Happy	Forgiveness (D)
9.	Liegeman	I	Enclosure	Nobleman (B)
10.	Devise	J	Fame	Plan (C)

 Exercise 2: 

Read the poem again and encircle the right option:
1. The ballad "The Abbot of Canterbury' is narrated in ____ person:
a. first
b. second
c. third
d. first and third story ✔

2. The poet says to the reader that he is going to tell a ____ story.
a. sad
b. funny ✔
c. terrible
d. folk

3. King John was jealous of Abbot's housekeeping and high ______.
a. character
b. respect
c. business
d. renown ✔

4. King John feared that the Abbot was working against his _____:
a. people
b. policies
c. crown ✔
d. ministers

5. King John told the Abbot if he did not answer his three questions he would be _____:
a. beheaded ✔
b. poisoned
c. banished
d. fined

6. After listening to the King's questions, the Abbot rode to _____ universities.
a. Oxford and London
b. Oxford and Canterbury
c. Oxford and Campbell
d. Oxford and Cambridge ✔

7. The Abbot requested the king to give him ___ week's time.
a. three ✔
b. four
c. five
d. six

8. While going back to his hometown, the Abbot met a _____.
a. farmer
b. friend
c. neighbour
d. shepherd ✔

9. The shepherd demanded the Abbot's ___ to answer the king's questions.
a lands
b house
c. horse and dress ✔
d wealth

 Exercise 3: 

Work in pairs and read the lines given below carefully, Write down the number of the stanza against each statement in which the given information appears.

NO.	Statement	Stanza
1.	Abbot is a very rich person.	03 "12th line"
2.	Abbot seems satisfied in the court.	05 "20th line"
3.	Questions are very difficult to answer.	09 "36th line"
4.	Abbot tries to find out the answers.	11 "44th line"
5.	Abbot is sure to have his punishment.	12 "48th line"
6.	The king rewards the shepherd.	25 "104th line"

 Exercise 4: 

Read the poem again and answer the following questions.
Q.1: What was the dispute between the King and the Abbot?
Ans: The dispute between the two, the king and the Abbot was about the wealthy and luxurious life style. When the king heard about the eye-dazzling life of the Abbot, he started to envy him and his wealth. He thought, though he was King, yet he did not live as luxuriously as the Abbot lived. So that he brought the Abbot in trial for his luxurious Iife.

Q.2: What efforts did the Abbot make in order to save himself?
Ans: The Abbot paid visit to the scholars and doctors of Oxford and Cambridge universities.

Q.3: What were the questions that the King asked?
Ans: The King asked the following three questions:
I. What was the price of the King?
2. How long would he take tine to travel the world?
3. What was he thinking at that time?

Q.4: What was the shepherd's answer to the first question of the King?
Ans: The shepherd's answer to the first question of the king was that the price of the king would be 29 pence. Because, the Christ was sold for 30 pence, so the king would be sold one penny lesser that the price of the Christ.

Q.5: What was the shepherd's answer to the second question of the King?
Ans: The shepherd's answer to the king's second question was that he could travel the world in a day. He explained that if he woke up early in the morning and started walking with the sun, he would surely return the next morning. Since there are 24 hours in a day, he could cover a significant distance by following the sun throughout that time.

Q.6: What was the shepherd's answer to the third question of the King?
Ans: The shepherd's answer to the third question was very funny. He told the king that he was thinking of him as the Abbot, but he was only his poor shepherd. And he begged pardon for the Abbot.

Q.7: How did the king express his emotions after being answered his all questions?
Ans: The king became so happy. He laughed loudly and swore. Happily, he offered the post of Abbot to the shepherd.

Q.8: Why did the shepherd not accept king's offer?
Ans: The shepherd did not accept king's offer because he was an illiterate person. So he requested the King not to give him any high position which did not fit to his qualification.

Q.9: How was the Abbot benefited by his shepherd's bold answers?
Ans: The Abbot's life was saved by his shepherd's bold answers. It was settled between the king and the Abbot that the Abbot would be beheaded if he could not answer the three questions. The shepherd gave and got pardon for his master Abbot.

Q.10: What is the main idea of this ballad?
Ans: The Abbot of Canterbury' is an interesting poem. The main idea of the poem is that it urges the readers not to judge the people and their wisdom on the ground of their appearance and profession. Education is not the legacy of any university or other institutions. It is not confined to book learning or registering oneself in any colleges or elsewhere. It is attained through experience, so one should try to learn from everywhere.

 Exercise 5: 

Discuss the pom 'The Abbot of Canterbury' as a ballad? Note down your answer in the notebook . Once you have written, compare it with your partner.
Ans: The poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", included in our book, is a ballad. Ballads have crude language because fine writing would not be suitable for the telling of this straightforward and amusing folk story. King John ruled England from 1199 to 1216, was a very unpleasant man and a thoroughly bad kind. It is a ballad of unknown telling an ancient story consisting of 100 lines of regular rhythm.

 Exercise 6: 

'The Abbot of Canterbury' is an interesting poem that urges the readers not to judge the people and their wisdom on the ground of their appearance and profession.
Work in groups of three. Compose your own poem on the similar theme, using elements of poetry based on three stanzas. Each member of group should compose 1 stanza. After your group has composed the poem, share it with other groups.
Ans: (Self Practice)
Sample Answer is given below:

Beyond the Surface

The baker kneads with floured hands,
His wisdom rises warm -
More than dough his soul expands,
Though callous marks his palm.

The beggar stands in tattered cloak,
His words drop rich as gold -
While silk-clad men with airs of folk
Speak folly dark and cold.

So judge not worth by outward dress,
Nor wisdom by degree -
For truth wears many masks, unless
We learn how eyes should see.
- inspired by "The Abbot of Canterbury"

OR

Beyond the Veil

In shadows cast by gilded frames,
The scholar’s thoughts may roam,
Yet wisdom hides in humble names,
Where hearts can find their home.

The merchant clad in rags so worn,
May hold a treasure rare,
While kings in robes of silk adorn,
May lack the love to share.

So look beyond the surface sheen,
And seek the soul within,
For true worth lies in what’s unseen, Where kindness can begin.

 Exercise 7: 

Work in groups of three to enact the given story by playing different roles. Each group should rehearse at least two times in the class.
Ans: (Class Work)
Guidelines for Performing "The Abbot of Canterbury"

1. Understand the Poem:
   * Read the poem several times to grasp its meaning and themes.
   * Discuss the main ideas with classmates or teachers to clarify any confusion.
   
   
2. Character Roles:
   * Identify the different characters in the poem (e.g., the Abbot, the Monk, the Peasant).
   * Decide who will play each character during the performance.
   
   
3. Practice Reading Aloud:
   * Read the poem aloud to practice pronunciation and expression.
   * Pay attention to the rhythm and flow of the lines.
   
   
4. Use Expressions and Gestures:
   * Use facial expressions and body language to convey emotions and actions.
   * Make gestures that match the words to enhance the performance.
   
   
5. Work on Timing:
   * Practice the timing of your lines to ensure everyone speaks at the right moment.
   * Use pauses effectively to emphasize important parts of the poem.
   
   
6. Costumes and Props:
   * Consider wearing simple costumes or using props to represent the characters.
   * Props can help make the performance more engaging and visual.
   
   
7. Rehearse Together:
   * Practice as a group to ensure everyone knows their lines and cues.
   * Provide feedback to each other to improve the performance.
   
   
8. Engage the Audience:
   * Make eye contact with the audience to keep them engaged.
   * Use your voice to project clearly so everyone can hear.
   
   
9. Be Confident:
   * Believe in your performance and enjoy the experience.
   * Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes; just keep going!
   
   
10. Reflect After the Performance:
    * After performing, discuss what went well and what could be improved.
    * Share thoughts on how the poem's message was conveyed.

 Exercise 8: 

Work individually and explain the following lines. Write your work in the notebook and share it with your class fellows after you have completed.

Lines No.	Lines
1- 4	An ancient story ....... maintained little right.
5 - 8	And I'll tell you a story ....... fair Lond on town.
9 - 12	A hundred men ....... waited the Abbot about.
13 - 16	'How now, father Abbot? ....... against my crown."
17 - 20	'My liege', quoth the abbot ....... true-gotten gear'.
21 - 24	'Yes, yes, father abbot ....... smitten from thy body.
25 - 28	'And first; quoth the king ....... penny what I am worth.
29 - 32	'Secondly,' tell me, ....... what I do think.
33 - 36	'0, these are hard questions ....... answer your grace.
37 - 40	Now three weeks' space to ....... forfeit to me.
41 - 44	Away rode the abbot ....... an answer devise.
45 - 48	The home rode ....... good King John.
49 - 52	Sad news, sad news ....... from my body.
53 - 56	The first is to tell him there ....... he is worth.
57 - 60	The second, to tell him, ....... he does think.
61 - 64	Now cheer up, sir abbot! ....... answer your quarrel.
65 - 68	Nay, frown not, if it hath ....... fair London town.
69 - 72	Now horses and serving men ....... our father the Pope.
73 - 76	Now welcome, sir abbot ....... saved shall be.
77 - 80	And first, when thou seest ....... what I am worth.
81 - 84	For thirty pence, our Saviour ....... penny worse than He.
85 - 88	The king then laughed, and ....... whole world about.
89 - 92	You must rise with the sun ....... you ride it about.
93 - 96	The king then laughed, and swore ....... what I do think.
97 - 100	Yes, that shall I do, and ....... pardon for him and for me.
101 - 104	The king he laughed ....... write nor read."
105 - 108	Four nobles a week, then, ....... from good King John.

Ans: Explanation Of Lines:
Lines 1- 4:
An ancient story ....... maintained little right.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet starts with these words that he then wants to tell the story about King John. He ruled England by sheer force. He was responsible by doing much, that was wrong, very little that was right.

Lines 5 - 8:
And I'll tell you a story ....... fair Lond on town.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that he tells us a very funny story About Abbot of Canterbury. The King heard about his great reputation and wealth. His official brought him with great speed to London.

Lines 9 - 12:
A hundred men ....... waited the Abbot about.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the King heard that the Abbot entertained a hundred man every day and the fifty servant dressed in the velvet and golden chains waited up on him.

Lines 13 -16:
'How now, father Abbot? ....... against my crown."
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the King said to Abbot that he had heard that he lived evenmore magnificently than himself. He suspected that in order to win such reputation, he might have committed treason against him.

Lines 17 - 20:
'My liege', quoth the abbot ....... true-gotten gear'.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the Bishop replied that he had always spent only what belonged to him. He hoped that his Majesty would not punish him for speaking his honestly earned wealth.

Lines 21- 24:
'Yes, yes, father abbot ....... smitten from thy body.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the king said to the Abbot that he had committed a heinous crime and he deserved to die for it. If he does not not reply to his three questions, he would be beheaded.

Line 25 - 28:
'And first; quoth the king ....... penny what I am worth.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem. Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that first of all, he must tell the King to a penny what he is worth when he sits among his Noble subjects there with his precious crown on his head.

Lines 29 - 32:
'Secondly,' tell me, ....... what I do think.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the king put the second question before Abbot and asked how much time he would require to ride around the earth. The third question asked by the king before him was that what he was thinking at the time.

Lines 33 - 36:
'0, these are hard questions ....... answer your grace.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that in response to three questions of the King, the Abbot replied that those were difficult question for a man of poor intelligence like him. He could not answer at the moment. So, he be given time of three weeks to reply.

Lines 37 - 40:
Now three weeks' space to ....... forfeit to me.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet Says that the king asked that he give him three weeks period. But it might be the longest time that he would live, because if he failed to reply the questions at the end of that period, he would die and his possessions would be confiscated.

Lines 41 - 44:
Away rode the abbot ....... an answer devise.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the Abbot was sad and worried about the threats of the king and went away to find the answers of questions. He met many wise men very wise men at Cambridge and Oxford, but could not get answers from those learned men.

Lines 45 - 48:
The home rode ....... good King John.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that at last, the Abbot rode back home without finding any consolation. On the way, he met his shepherd. He welcomed the Bishop back home and asked him the news about the king.

Lines 49 - 52:
Sad news, sad news ....... from my body.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that when the Abbot returned home, he told his shepherd that he was much grieved to tell him that he had only three days to live. The reason being that if he could not answer King's three questions within three days, he would be beheaded.

Lines 53 - 56:
The first is to tell him there ....... he is worth.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the Abbot tells the shepherd about the three question of the King which he had to answer. The first was that he had to tell the worth of king when he was sitting on his throne with his crown of gold on head and among his noble courtiers.

Lines 57 - 60:
The second, to tell him, ....... he does think.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the Bishop tells the shepherd about the second and third questions put before him by King John. The second question was that in what period of time, he would go round the world. The third question was that he might tell him unhesitatingly what he was thinking at that moment.

Lines 61 - 64:
Now cheer up, sir abbot! ....... answer your quarrel.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the shepherd asks the Abbot to be happy and says that had he never heard that even sometimes, a fool may teach a wise man some wisdom. Therefore, he requested the Abbot to lend him his horse, his servants and his official dress and to allow him to go London in his place to answer the King's questions.

Lines 65 - 68:
Nay, frown not, if it hath ....... fair London town.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the shepherd requests the Abbot that he might not doubt his ability. He also asked him not to feel angry with him because as people told that he resembled with him very, closely. If he would only lend him his gown, he would look exactly like him and no body in the good city of London would recognize him that he was not the Abbot of Canterbury.

Lines 59 - 72:
Now horses and serving men ....... our father the Pope.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the Bishop agreed with the shepherd's suggestion. And told him that he would give him his horses and servants in their proper uniform. These brave and courageous men would serve him as attendants. The Bishop also promised him to give him his Crozier, miter, rochet and cope so that he might look exactly like the true Abbot even before the Pope.

Lines 73 - 76:
Now welcome, sir abbot ....... saved shall be.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that when the shepherd reached the court of King John in guise of Abbot, no one recognized him. The king welcomed him as Sir Abbot. He appreciated his coming on the appointed day. The King reminded him once again that his life would be spared and his property would be saved in case, he was able to answer his three questions.

Lines 77 - 80:
And first, when thou seest ....... what I am worth.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the first questions which the king put to the shepherd was that he might tell him what was his worth while he was silting on his thrown among the courtiers of a noble birth and wearing the crown made of gold. King asked him to answer clearly, because he wanted to know his exact worth.

Lines 81 - 84:
For thirty pence, our Saviour ....... penny worse than He.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that shepherd told the king that he had heard that Jesus Christ was sold among the false Jews only for thirty pence. So his worth is twenty nine pence. Because, he might be one penny less than the prophet of God.

Lines 85 - 88:
The king then laughed, and ....... whole world about.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that the king laughed at the reply of shepherd. Then, swearing by Saint Bittel, he said that he had never thought that he was worth so little. After it, King John put his second question by asking that he should let him know how long it would take him to ride round the world.

Lines 89 - 92:
You must rise with the sun ....... you ride it about.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet has described the answer of the second question of King John. The shepherd told the king that he should rise with the sun and travel with its speed till it rises again in the next morning. In this way, the king would be able to travel round the whole world within twenty four hours.

Lines 93 - 96:
The king then laughed, and swore ....... what I do think.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet say that when the king heard the answer of the shepherd to his second question, he laughed and, swearing by Saint John, said that he had never thought that he could travel round the whole world in such a short time. Now, he put his third question and asked the shepherd to tell him truly, without any kind of hesitation, what he was thinking about at that time.

Lines 97 - 100:
Yes, that shall I do, and ....... pardon for him and for me.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that in response to King John's third question, the shepherd told him that he would certainly give him a proper answer which would also prove pleasant for him. He told the king that perhaps he was thinking that the Abbot himself was in his presence. But, actually, it was only the poor shepherd of his who was talking to him in the uniform of the Abbot. The shepherd begged his pardon for himself and for the Abbot of Canterbury.

Lines 101 - 104:
The king he laughed ....... write nor read."
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that on hearing the shepherd's reply to the third question, the king laughed once again and said to the shepherd that he wanted to appoint him as the Abbot of Canterbury in place of his master. But the shepherd requested him that he should not take such decision in a hurry. Because, he did not know reading and writing.

Lines 105 -108:
Four nobles a week, then, ....... from good King John.
Introduction: These lines have been taken from the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury", which is an Anonymous poem.
Explanation: In these lines, the poet says that when the shepherd did not accept the post of Abbot for himself then the king announced a pension of four nobles a week for him as a reward for his merry jest. He also announced a pardon for old Abbot and asked the shepherd to convey that happy news to his master, the Abbrot of Canterbury, from good when he returned back home.

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The Abbot Of Canterbury (Poem 6) - Questions And Answers - English (Compulsory) For HSC Part 1

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English I (Compulsory)
For HSC Part 1
Poem 6 - The Abbot Of Canterbury

Anonymous (Unknown) Poet

Questions And Answers

Q.1: What was the dispute between the King and the Abbot? OR Why was King John hostile to the Abbot of Canterbury? OR Why does King John feel jealous of the Abbot of Canterbury?
Ans: The dispute between the two, the king and the Abbot was about the wealthy and luxurious life style. When the king heard about the eye-dazzling life of the Abbot, he started to envy him and his wealth. He thought, though he was King, yet he did not live as luxuriously as the Abbot lived. So that he brought the Abbot in trial for his luxurious life.

OR

Ans: King John became jealous of the Abbot of Canterbury after hearing that the Abbot was leading a life far superior to his own. This jealousy led the king to called the Abbot to his court and accuse him of treason. After knowing about the Abbot's wealth, property, and social activities, King John suspected that the Abbot might be plotting against his crown, which fueled his hostility towards him.

OR

King John was hostile to the Abbot of Canterbury for several reasons. As a cruel ruler, he became envious of the Abbot's luxurious lifestyle and boundless wealth. The Abbot's servants were known to wear gold chains, which further fueled the king's jealousy. Upon learning of the Abbot's high renown, King John grew anxious and suspicious. He expressed his belief that the Abbot might conspire against him.

OR

Ans: When King John heard that the Abbot of Canterbury was leading a luxurious life, entertained hundreds of guests and that he had become more popular than the king, thus there was fire of hatred in his heart. Being jealous, he wanted to punish the Abbot. He summoned the Abbot and charged him with treason for betraying his kingdom. He, therefore, decided to behead the Abbot.

Q.2: What efforts did the Abbot make in order to save himself? OR Where did the Abbot go after he got three weeks? OR What did the Abbot has to do in order to save him from being beheaded and where did Abbot go to find answers to his questions?
Ans: The Abbot paid visit to the scholars and doctors of Oxford and Cambridge universities.

OR

Ans: To save himself, the Abbot was given three weeks to answer three difficult questions from the king, with the threat of beheading for failure. He sought help from scholars at Oxford, Cambridge, and other intellectuals to find the answers.

OR

Ans: When the Abbot learned that he would lose his life and property if he failed to answer the king's questions, he became very sad. He went to the wise men of Cambridge and Oxford, two famous universities in England, to find the right answers, but no one could provide the answers he needed.

OR

Because he was angry with the Abbot, King John asked him three difficult questions. The Abbot needed to answer these questions to save himself from being beheaded. To find the answers, the Abbot went to the universities of Cambridge and Oxford, which were known for their knowledge and wisdom at that time.

Q.3: What were the questions that the King asked?
Ans: The King asked the following three questions:
I. What was the price of the King?
2. How long would he take tine to travel the world?
3. What was he thinking at that time?

OR

Ans: Three questions of King John are as follows:
I. What was the worth of King John to one penny among all his liegemen so noble of birth with his crown of gold so fair on his head.
II. How soon he might ride the whole world about.
III. Third question was to tell him truly what king John was thinking.

Q.4: What was the shepherd's answer to the first question of the King? OR In answering the riddle, how did the shepherd justify valuing the king at twenty-nine pence?
Ans: The shepherd's answer to the first question of the king was that the price of the king would be 29 pence. Because, the Christ was sold for 30 pence, so the king would be sold one penny lesser that the price of the Christ.

OR

Ans: The first answer was:
The savior was sold for thirty pence among the false jews and the Kings worth was twenty-nine for he was one penny worser than Jesus Christ.

OR

Ans: The shepherd told the king that it is said that Jesus Christ was sold among the Jews for thirty (30) pence. The value of the king should not be more or equal to the Christ. So, if he is evaluated as only one penny less, then his worth will be 29 pence.

Q.5: What was the shepherd's answer to the second question of the King?
Ans: The shepherd's answer to the king's second question was that he could travel the world in a day. He explained that if he woke up early in the morning and started walking with the sun, he would surely return the next morning. Since there are 24 hours in a day, he could cover a significant distance by following the sun throughout that time.

OR

Ans: The second answer was:
The King must rise with the sun and ride until the next morning, when he will rise again. Then, without any doubt, he will ride around the whole world in 24 hours.

Q.6: What was the shepherd's answer to the third question of the King? OR How did he know the answer the third riddle?
Ans: The shepherd's answer to the third question was very funny. He told the king that he was thinking of him as the Abbot, but he was only his poor shepherd. And he begged pardon for the Abbot.

OR

Ans: The third answer given by poor shepherd was that the king thought that he was the Abbot of Canterbury but he disclosed that he was his poor shepherd. He also said that he came to beg pardon for him and for Abbot of Canterbury.

OR

Ans: The shepherd knew that the king must be under the impression that the Abbot was answering the question. He used his disguise to the answer of the third question.

Q.7: How did the king express his emotions after being answered his all questions?
Ans: The king became so happy. He laughed loudly and swore. Happily, he offered the post of Abbot to the shepherd.

OR

Ans: The King laughed and swore by saint Bine!, Saint John and mass after hearing the three answers respectively. He said that he would give shepherd four nobles a week. He also said that he had pardoned the Abbot of Canterbury.

OR

Ans: In the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury," the king, impressed by the shepherd's boldness and wit after he answered correctly, offered him a job at court. The shepherd declined, citing ineligibility. The king praised his honesty, respected his decision and awarding him four nobles a week instead. Additionally, the king pardoned the Abbot of Canterbury and rewarded him by restoring his lands and status.

OR

Ans: The poor shepherd, disguised as the Abbot of Canterbury, went to King John's court to answer his difficult questions. The shepherd's replies were witty and humorous, making the king laugh. He was pleased with the flattering answers, especially since he was compared to Jesus Christ for just twenty-nine pence. The king was so delighted that he forgot his original plans. Not only did he pardon the Abbot, but he also granted a pension of four nobles a week to the shepherd for his amusing performance.

Q.8: Why did the shepherd not accept king's offer?
Ans: The shepherd did not accept king's offer because he was an illiterate person. So he requested the King not to give him any high position which did not fit to his qualification.

OR

Ans: The shepherd excused himself by telling the king that he was an illiterate one and can neither read nor write.

OR

Ans: The shepherd did not accept the offer of the king because he was not fit to be an Abbot as he did not know how to read or write.

Q.9: How was the Abbot benefited by his shepherd's bold answers? OR How did the real abbot benefit from his shepherd's bold tricks?
Ans: The Abbot's life was saved by his shepherd's bold answers. It was settled between the king and the Abbot that the Abbot would be beheaded if he could not answer the three questions. The shepherd gave and got pardon for his master Abbot.

OR

Ans: The abbot succeeded in saving his life and got pardon from the king with the timely help of his shepherd.

OR

Ans: The shepherd, disguised as the Abbot and dressed in ceremonial clothes, answered the king's questions with such intelligence and wit that the king was amused and laughed. As a result, the king pardoned both the shepherd and the Abbot, allowing the Abbot to retain his life, land, and status.

Q.10: What is the main idea of this ballad? OR What is the theme of the poem?
Ans: The Abbot of Canterbury' is an interesting poem. The main idea of the poem is that it urges the readers not to judge the people and their wisdom on the ground of their appearance and profession. Education is not the legacy of any university or other institutions. It is not confined to book learning or registering oneself in any colleges or elsewhere. It is attained through experience, so one should try to learn from everywhere.

OR

Ans: The poem delivers the message that even the less educated or illiterate people possess wisdom. Sometimes they can outshine even the wisest and the most intelligent people of the time.

More Questions And Answers

Q.11: Who was sold for thirty pence?
Ans: Jesus Christ, the great Prophet of God according to the Bible was sold among the false Jews for thirty pence. He was betrayed by one of his disciples, Judah Iscariot.

Q.12: 'Wisdom is a God-gifted thing which can be bestowed upon anyone without education. Comment in the light of the poem `The Abbot of Canterbury'.
Ans: The poem `The Abbot of Canterbury' narrates the story of a Cruel monarch, King John. When the King called the Abbot of Canterbury to trap him, he asked three tricky questions. The Abbot got puzzled and failed to answer. The King declared capital punishment (death penalty) for the Abbot. Later, he showed generosity and allowed three weeks time to Abbot to find the answers to those questions. The Abbot travelled far and wide and approached renowned education institutions like Oxford and Cambridge. But no scholar could provide the right answers. The Abbot of Canterbury got disappointed and returned home preparing for death. His poor shepherd took upon himself the task of answering those questions. The shepherd who was illiterate, proved his supremacy over the Abbot because of his wisdom. "Education comes through experience, not from books and institutions."

OR

Ans: The Abbot of Canterbury was unable to find out the answers of the three difficult questions asked by King John. Then he met shepherd and told him the story. The shepherd reminded Abbot the famous proverb and remelted that sometimes a foolish person might be able to teach a lesson of wisdom to wise man. Therefore, the shepherd appeared into the court of King John and answered his questions using his wit and wisdom that the king was pleased and delighted. He forgave the Abbot and the shepherd and also announced that he would give shepherd four nobles a week. Hence, we can say that wisdom Is a God-gifted thing which can be bestowed upon anyone without education.

Q.13: Who was King John and how did he rule the country?
Ans: King John was the king of England. He ruled his country with main and with might. He did great wrong and maintained little right. Therefore, he was supposed to be an unjust ruler.

Q.14: What sentence did King John give to the Abbot of Canterbury?
Ans: King John was fearful of the Abbot of Canterbury and thought that he might treason his crown. Therefore, he asked three difficult questions from the Abbot and if he was unable to answer those questions, his head would be smitten from his body.

Q.15: Why could Abbot not answer the questions of King John?
Ans: The Abbot said that those were hard Questions at that moment. Therefore, he asked King John to give him three weeks' space and he would do his endeavour to answer his grace.

Q.16: What did the Shepherd say to the Abbot of Canterbury? OR How did the Shepherd console the Abbot?
Ans: The shepherd said to the Abbot of Canterbury that a fool he might learn a wise man wit. He asked him to give his serving man and his apparel and he would ride to London to answer the Questions.

OR

Ans: The shepherd was an intelligent man. He advised Abbot not to worry. He said a fool could not understand a wise man wit. He requested the Abbot to give him his dress along with servants and horses. He satisfied the Abbot by saying that as he resembled the Abbot so nobody would e able to recognize him. Therefore, in disguise he went to the court of the king and answered the questions.

Q.17: Who was the Abbot of Canterbury? OR What was an abbot?
Ans: An abbot is the highest official of a monastery, similar to a bishop in a local church. In this poem, the Abbot of Canterbury refers to the head of the Canterbury monastery in England. He was a wealthy man known for his luxurious lifestyle and renowned for his hospitality.

Q.18: What was the shepherd doing when he (the Abbot) met him?
Ans: When he met him, the shepherd was on his way to gather the sheep into a fold.

Q.19: When he met the shepherd how many days had passed since the King had given him the three riddles to answer?
Ans. When the abbot met the shepherd, he (the abbot) had wasted most of the given time and only three days were left to give the answers of the questions.

Q.20: What did the shepherd propose to do? OR How did shepherd solve the Abbot's dilemma?
Ans. The shepherd suggested the abbot that he (the shepherd) would go to answer the dispute because he not only knew the answers of the queries but he also resembles the abbot so no one in the whole London town would be able to identify him.

OR

A: The shepherd resembled the Abbot in appearance, so he promised him to solve his dilemma by disguising himself as the Abbot. He would then go to King John and answer his riddles to save the life of the Abbot.

Q.21: How did King John behave on finding out that he had been deceived?
Ans: Unexpectedly, when the king came to know that he was being deceiving he was greatly amused and showed his joy after every answer to his question.

Q.22: What reward did the shepherd receive? OR Why did the king give the shepherd four nobles a week? OR What was the reward given by King John to the shepherd?
Ans: The king was greatly pleased with the witty answers of the shepherd. He announced a reward of four nobles a week. Further he pardoned the Abbot of Canterbury and the Shepherd.

OR

Ans: The shepherd received a reward of a life time pension of four nobles a week.

OR

Ans: The king gave the shepherd a pension four nobles a week for the amusement he had given the king by those jokes.

Q.23: Give an introduction of the poem.
Ans: The poem The Abbot of Canterbury" is a typical old ballad of the south of England. Like all ballads, it tells a story and does so in a simple and traditional verse form.

Q.24: What is the name of the poet of the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury"?
Ans: The name of the poet of the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury" is not known i.e. the poet is anonymous.

Q.25: What do you mean by "The poet is anonymous"? OR What do we mean when we say that a poem is 'anonymous?
Ans: "The poet is anonymous" means that we do not know who has written the poem.

OR

Ans: When the authorship of a poem is marked as 'anonymous', it means the poet is unknown.

Q.26: What kind of a ruler was King John?
Ans: King John was a significant power ruler ("with main and with might") but was characterized by his unjust actions. He did many wrong things and was unfair, meaning he didn't treat people justly.

Q.27: How did King John rule over/England?
Ans: He ruled over England by cheer force and without the constant of the people, He was never tired of doing cruel deeds. He did nothing that was right or proper.

Q.28: What did the king hear about the Abbot of Canterbury?
Ans: King John heard that the Abbot of Canterbury had a great reputation, amassed wealth, and lived with great pomp and show. He kept a better house than the king himself and entertained a hundred men in his house every day. He had a large number of servants who waited on him, fifty of whom wore velvet coats and gold chains.

Q.29: What did the King John want to do with the Abbot of Canterbury?
Ans: King John wanted to behead the abbot of Canterbury.

Q.30: What rumor spread to the king about the Abbot?
Ans: The rumor that spread to the king was that the Abbot of Canterbury hosted a hundred men a day in his house and had fifty servants who wore golden chains and velvet coats.

Q.31: Why did King John of England fear the Abbot? OR Why did the king summon the Abbot to court?
Ans: The Abbot was very rich and well-known for his hospitality. He had a hundred servants, and fifty of them wore golden chains. Because of his wealth, King John feared that the Abbot could challenge his authority. Therefore, the king accused him of treason and wanted to killed him.

OR

Ans: King John summoned the Abbot to court to defend himself against the allegations made against him. The only way for the Abbot to avoid a death sentence was to answer three questions.

Q.32: What was the king's first questions to the Abbot?
Ans: His first questions was to tell him exactly what was the king's worth when he was sitting on the throne with his crown of gold so fair on his head among his liegemen so noble of birth.

Q.33: What was the king's second question to the Abbot?
Ans: The second questions was to tell him exactly how soon he could ride round the whole world.

Q.34: What was the third question of King John to the Abbot?
Ans:The third question was to tell him without any fear or hesitation what the king was thinking at that time.

Q.35: How much time did the Abbot ask the king to answer his questions, and why?
Ans: He requested King John to give him at least three weeks to answer the questions because they were very difficult. His life and honestly earned fortune were at stake, and he did not want to rush and risk losing both his property and his life.

Q.36: Why did the king pardon the Abbot?
Ans: The king pardoned the Abbot because he was very pleased with the answers given by the shepherd, who was disguised as the Abbot, to his three questions. He also told the shepherd to inform the Abbot that he had obtained the king's pardon for him.

Q.37: Why did the king offer to make the shepherd the Abbot?
Ans: The king offered to make the shepherd the Abbot because he provided witty and flattering answers to the king's three questions, which pleased him. The king was so impressed with the shepherd's wit and clevernes that he decided to offer him the position of Abbot of Canterbury in place of his master.

Q.38: Why did the king decide to act after he heard the shepherd's reply to his third question?
Ans: The king laughed upon hearing the shepherd's reply to his third question and swore by the mass that he would make him the Abbot of Canterbury in place of his master.

Q.39: Why was the king surprised to hear the shepherd's reply to his second question?
Ans: The king was very surprised and laughed upon hearing the shepherd's reply to his second question. Swearing by 'Saint John,' he said that he never thought anyone could ride around the whole world so quickly.

Q.40: How did the king welcome the shepherd as the Abbot?
Ans: When the shepherd, dressed as the Abbot, went to the king, no one could recognize him in the court, and even the king could not identify him. The king welcomed him as "Sir Abbot," expressing that it was good that the Abbot had come on the appointed day.

Q.41: What did the Abbot promise to give the shepherd after he made his request?
Ans: The Abbot was convinced by the shepherd's proposal. He told the shepherd that he would provide him with horses and servants, along with rich and splendid attire. The Abbot also promised to give the shepherd his crozier, mitre, and cope, as the Abbot had come on the appointed day.

Q.42: What news from King John did the Abbot give to the shepherd?
Ans: The Abbot shared sad news from King John with the shepherd. He told him that after spending most of the weeks at Cambridge and Oxford to find the answers to the king's questions, he had only three days left to live. If he failed to answer the king's three questions, he would be beheaded.

Q.43: What do you think is the moral of the poem?
Ans: To me the moral of the poem is that wisdom does not come with education, It is the blessing of God. A person commonly understood as fool can some times teach the Wiseman well.

Q.44: Name any two ballads in your book of poetry.
Ans: `The Abbot of Canterbury' and 'Lucy Gray' are the two ballads in our poetry book.

Q.45:What did the Abbot say to the charges of King John?
Ans: The Abbot was at his wit's end trying to understand the charges against him. He humbly told the king that he was not spending the government’s wealth; he was using his own honestly earned money. He was confident that the king would not punish him for spending his true gotten year. (money that he earned honestly.)

Q.46: Who answered the King's three questions?
Ans: As the Abbot was of shallow wit, he didn't know the answers to the King's questions. Therefore, his . shepherd, who was very clever, with the Abbot's consent, disguised himself as the Abbot and he answered the king's questions.

Q.47: Why did the king not disagree with the idea expressed in the reply to the first question?
Ans: King John was a smart ruler. He did not want to damage his reputation by claiming to be greater than Prophet Jesus Christ. He saw himself as the ruler of a small kingdom, while Jesus was a great Prophet. Additionally, the king was pleased by the reply and liked to think that he was the most important person after Christ. Therefore, the king did not disagree with the idea in the reply to the first question.

Questions And Answers
For Knowledge

Q.48: What is a ballad and its treasures? Name any two ballads in your book of poetry.
Ans: Ballad is a long narrative poem that tells a story, usually in four lines stanza called quatrains. It is one of the oldest forms in English language. The ballads are of two kinds:
Nothern ballads and Southern ballad. They belong to north and south explained respectively. There are some specific features of ballad.
1. Sometimes it opens abruptly, without any systematic introduction. Sometimes it begins with question, answer.
2. It is impersonal; with treatment nothing to do with the people's identity.
3. Refrain is its special quality. Often some lines are repeated from stanza to stanza.

Q.49: Does this ballad tell a true story?
Ans: Yes, this ballad tells a true story of King John of England who ruled England with might and injustice from 1199 to 1216.

Q.50: Who was the king of England at the time of story and when did he reign?
Ans: King John was the king of England at the time of the story 'The Abbot of Canterburry" he reigned from 1199 to 1216.

The Abbot Of Canterbury (Poem 6) - Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) - English (Compulsory) For HSC Part 1

Go To Index
English I (Compulsory)
For HSC Part 1
Poem 6 - The Abbot Of Canterbury

Anonymous (Unknown) Poet

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Choose the right option:
1. The ballad "The Abbot of Canterbury' is narrated in ____ person:
a. first
b. second
c. third
d. first and third story ✔

2. The poet says to the reader that he is going to tell a ____ story.
a. sad
b. funny ✔
c. terrible
d. folk

3. King John was jealous of Abbot's housekeeping and high ______.
a. character
b. respect
c. business
d. renown ✔

4. King John feared that the Abbot was working against his _____:
a. people
b. policies
c. crown ✔
d. ministers

5. King John told the Abbot if he did not answer his three questions he would be _____:
a. beheaded ✔
b. poisoned
c. banished
d. fined

6. After listening to the King's questions, the Abbot rode to _____ universities.
a. Oxford and London
b. Oxford and Canterbury
c. Oxford and Campbell
d. Oxford and Cambridge ✔

7. The Abbot requested the king to give him ___ week's time.
a. three ✔
b. four
c. five
d. six

8. While going back to his hometown, the Abbot met a _____.
a. farmer
b. friend
c. neighbour
d. shepherd ✔

9. The shepherd demanded the Abbot's ___ to answer the king's questions.
a lands
b house
c. horse and dress ✔
d wealth

10. "The Abbot of Canterbury" is composed by:
a. William Wordsworth
b. John Keats
c. Anonymous ✔
d. Alexander Pope

11."The Abbot of Canterbury" deals with the ideas of:
a. Jealousy ✔
b. Aristocracy
c. Democracy
d. none

12. "For thirty pence our ___ was sold among the false Jews, as I have been told".
a. Christ
b. Savior ✔
c. Lord
d. Prophet

13. The Abbot of Canterbury is a ____.
a. Sonnet
b. Ballad ✔
c. Elegy
d. Carol

14. King John asks ____ questions from the Abbot of Canterbury.
a. Two
b. three ✔
c. four
d. five

15. ____ gives the intelligent answers of King John's questions?
a. Poor farmer
b. poor shepherd ✔
c. Abbot's doctor
d. Abbot

16. The Abbot was supposed to answer the questions of King John within:
a. two week
b. three weeks ✔
c. Four week
d. one week

17. King John announced as a reward.
a. Four nobles a week ✔
b. Four nobles a month
c. Three nobles a week
d. Three nobles a month

18. To Shepherd, the worth of King John was:
a. 30 pence
b. 29 pence ✔
c. 25 pence
d. 31 pence

19. The King could travel in ______ hours.
a. 22
b. 23
c. 24 ✔
d. 25

20. _____ impersonates the Abbot before the king?
a. Abbot's servant
b. Abbot's shepherd ✔
c. Abbot's brother
d. none

21. This poem is old typical ____.
a. Song
b. ballad ✔
c. ode
d. blank verse

22. The Savior was sold in:
a. 31 pence
b. 30 pence ✔
c. 29 pence
d. 25 pence

23. The Abbot of Canterbury is ____ poem.
a. An anonymous ✔
b. a local
c. a foreign
d. a known

24. The name of the king in the Abbot of Canterbury is _____.
a. King Charles
b. King John ✔
c. King Henry
d. King Edward

25. King John ruled _____ with main and with might.
a. Scotland
b. Wales
c. Ireland
d. England ✔

26. King John ruled England with and _____.
a. Pity -kindness
b. Main-might ✔
c. Humor-pride
d. None

27. The poet tells the story in the poem The Abbot of Canterbury concerning the ___:
a. Duke
b. Abbot of Canterbury ✔
c. Courtiers of King
d. None

28. The Abbot kept ____ men in his house everyday.
a. Fifty
b. One hundred ✔
c. two hundred
d. seventy

29. Complete the line; And ___ gold chains, without any about'.
a. Thirty
b. forty
c. fifty ✔
d. sixty

30. Complete the liner; '0, these are hard Questions for my _____.
a. Knowledge
b. education
c. friends
d. shallow wit ✔

31. The Abbot met his ____ a - going to fold.
a. Clerk
b. assistant
c. Shepherd ✔
d. horsemen

32. Complete the line: In Velvet coats waited the ____ about.
a. Duke
b. King
c. Abbot ✔
d. lord

33. Complete the line; What news do you bring us from good ____.
a. Duke
b. Abbot
c. King John ✔
d. King Charles-II

34. Complete the line; 'that a ___ he may learn a wise man wit.
a. Noble
b. simple
c. fool ✔
d. dull

35. For ___ pence our savior was sold.
a. Twenty
b. Thirty ✔
c. Forty
d. Fifty

36. You must rise with the ____ and ride with the same.
a. Star
b. moon
c. Sun ✔
d. Jupiter

37. The worth of King John was ___ pence according to shepherd.
a. 27
b. 28
c. 29 ✔
d. 30

38. You think I am the ____.
a. Duke
b. King
c. Abbot of Canterbury ✔
d. None

39. The King gave ___ nobles a week to the shepherd.
a. Three
b. four ✔
c. five
d. six

40. Four nobles a ____, then I will give thee.
a. Fortnight
b. month
c. week ✔
d. year

41. King John was famous for ___ and little right:
a. Justice
b. Great wrong ✔
c. Wisdom
d. Courtesy

42. The Abbot of Canterburry was famous for ____.
a. Justice
b. Wisdom
c. Cruelty
d. Hospitality ✔

43. The Abbot had ___ number of servants with golden chains:
a. Hundred
b. Fifty ✔
c. Sixty
d. Ninety

44. It was famous that Abbot's servants put on coats:
a. Fir coats
b. Leathers coats
c. Cotton coats
d. Velvet ✔

45. 'I never spend nothing, but what is my own' means _____.
a. I don't spent my own
b. I never spend
c. I spend what is my own ✔
d. I need not spend my own

46. The king will foregive / pardon Abbot, if he___:
a. Answers three questions ✔
b. Begs pardon
c. Hands over property
d. Stop hospitality

47. If Abbot fails to answer the questions, he will be _____:
a. Hanged to death
b. Shooted
c. Exiled
d. Head cut from body ✔

48. Abbot went for the answers to _____.
a. His wife
b. Oxford and Cambridge ✔
c. Family
d. Shepherd

49. Head shall be Smitten from thy ___ said the king:
a. Body ✔
b. Sword
c. Knife
d. Hand

50. And the Abbot rode to Cambridge and ___ Universities:
a. Kansan
b. Harvard
c. Oxford ✔
d. Principle

51. Among the false ___ as I have been told, said the shepherd:
a. Muslims
b. Christian
c. Jews ✔
d. Hindus

52. The king gave ___ nobles a week to the shepherd for his merry-jest:
a. Two
b. Three
c. Four ✔
d. Five

53. The central figure of the poem "The Abbot of canterburry" is the:
a. King John
b. Abbot of Canterburry ✔
c. Shepherd
d. Prince

54. The main and basic point of the poem "The Abbot of Canterburry" is:
a. A happy life
b. Patriotism
c. Beauty of nature
d. Punishmeht and reward ✔

55. The King could ride the whole world in about ______ times.
a. Twenty four hours ✔
b. Twenty four years
c. Twenty four days
d. Twenty four months

56. The King ___ at first answer:
a. Shouted
b. Annoyed
c. Shirked
d. Laughed ✔

57. Crozier, mitre, rochet and cope re the _____:
a. names of the servants
b. names of the horses
c. parts of a dress ✔
d. names of the cities

58. When the Abbot returned home without answers ___ days were left.
a. three weeks
b. two weeks
c. three days ✔
d. four days

More Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
For Knowledge

23. King John ruled England from ___ to ____.
a. 1564 to 1616
b. 1216 to 1534
c. 1199 to 1216 ✔
d. 1534 to 11640

24. The Abbot of Canterbury is a typical old ballad of the:
a. South of England ✔
b. North of England
c. West of England
d. East of England

The Abbot Of Canterbury (Poem 6) - Words Meaning, Summary & Central Idea - English (Compulsory) For HSC Part 1

Go To Index
English I (Compulsory)
For HSC Part 1
Poem 6 - The Abbot Of Canterbury

Anonymous (Unknown) Poet

Words Meaning

S.NO.	Words	Meanings
1.	Ancient	Old, Primitive / قدیم
2.	Anon	Soon / جلد
3.	Apparel	Dress / لباس
4.	Array	Elegant dress / پوشاک
5.	Cheer up	Chin up / خوش ہوجانا
6.	Concerning	About / کے متعلق
7.	Crown	The highest Kingdom / بادشاہت
8.	Crozier	A staff / ایک چھژی
9.	Devise	Plan / منصوبہ بندی کرنا
10.	Doubt	Suspicion / شک و شبہ
11.	Endeavour	Effort / کوشش
12.	Fold	Enclose / بند کرنا
13.	Forfeit	Confiscate / ضبط کر لینا
14.	Frown	Curves on forehead, Sneer/ ناراضگی کا اظہار, غصہ
15.	Gallant	Brave, Bold / بہادر
16.	House keeping	The way of living / گھریلو معاملات کا نظام
17.	Jest	Fun, Joke / مذاق
18.	Liege	Lord / آقا
19.	Leige-men	The followers of a lord, Noblemen/ معززین, رعیت
20.	Merry	Happy, Interesting / خوش وخرم
21.	Might	Force / طاقت
22.	Mitre	Headdress / کلاہ
23.	Nobles	Gold coins / سونے کے سکے
24.	Notable	Distinguish, Famous /ممتاز, مشہور
25.	Pardon	Forgiveness / معافی
26.	Prince	Young king / نوجوان بادشاہ
27.	Quarrel	Dispute /جھگژا
28.	Renown	Famous, Fame / مشہور, شہرت
29.	Rochet	A religious garment, A big shirt /چغہ, پادریوں کا جبہ
30.	Ruled	Governed / حکومت کی
31.	Savior	Jesus Christ / حضرت عیسٰی
32.	Shallow	Not deep, Superficial / کم گہری, سطحی، واجبی
33.	Shrink	Move back / پیچھے ہٹنا
34.	Smite (Smitten)	Kill by (striking), Cut off / مارنا, نقصان پہنچانا
35.	Sumptuous	Expensive, Luxurious / ہہت مہنگا, پر تعیش
36.	Swore	Took oath / قسم کھائی
37.	Thee	You / آپ کو
38.	Treason	Treachery / Revolt / بغاوت، غداری
39.	True-gotten gear	Earning through honesty / حلال روزی
40.	Wit	Intelligence, Intellect / ذہانت, عقل
41.	With main and might	Powerfully / طاقت کےبل پر
42.	Worth	Value / قیمت
43.	Velvet	A specific cloth / مخمل

SUMMARY & CENTRAL IDEA

• By Practical Center (Summary)
• By Practical Center (Central Idea)
• By Sir Abdul Raheem (Summary)
• By Faridi's Guide Book (Summary)
• By Master Coaching Center (Central Idea)
• By Admin (Summary, Central Idea & Moral)

By Practical Center

Introduction:
"THE ABBOT OF CANTERBURY" is an interesting poem. Although the name of poet is not known, the poem is amazingly witty and humorous. The form is ballad in which there is a story element.

SUMMARY

The poet begins by saying that he will tell a story, a story so merry about the Abbot Of Canterbury. The Abbot was very popular among his people in Canterbury. He was famous for his wealth and house-keeping.

King John was told that the Abbot kept a far better house than himself. There was a fire of hatred in the king's heart. The Abbot was summoned by King John to his court in London to explain, how he became so rich. He also asked him why he should not be tried for treason and beheaded.

The Abbot told the King that whatever the wealth he possessed, it was earned by honest means. But the King was not convinced. The only way the Abbot could save himself was by answering the King's questions. His questions were:

1. As he was the King, with the crown of gold, on his head, tell, exactly what his worth was.
2. How soon he would ride, the whole world around.
3. To tell him truly, what he was thinking.

The Abbot was of shallow-wit, so he did not know the answers to the three questions. The King gave him three weeks time to answer his three questions. Thus, the Abbot got back, very sad. He visited the Oxford and Cambridge Universities, hoping that the learned doctors would help him. But alas! It was not so. On reaching home, he was welcomed by he shepherd, who asked him, what news ha had brought from King John. The Abbot told him the whole story. The shepherd comforted his master and told him not to worry.

He suggested to the Abbot, that he (the shepherd) would go in disguise as the Abbot and answer the King's questions. The Abbot got angry at firstr and then finally agreed. The shepherd in disguise as the Abbot, presented himself to the King. The King him welcome him in his court.

To the first question, he replied that the Prophet Jesus Christ was sold among the Jews for thirty pence. So his (the King's) value was a penny lesser than the Christ that is twenty-nine pence. To the second question, he replied that if the King rose with the sun and travelled with its speed, it would take him only twenty-four hours to ride round the earth.

To the third question, he replied, "You are thinking I am the Abbot of Canterbury. But I am his poor shepherd". He begged pardon for himself and his Abbot.

The King was very pleased with the replies; therefore, he wanted to appoint the shepherd in place of his master. But being uneducated, the shepherd declined the King's offer.

However, the King was so happy with the shepherd that he rewarded him with four nobles a week for his intelligence, and wisdom. He also pardoned the Abbot.

Central Idea

The Abbot of Canterbury' is an interesting poem. The main idea of the poem is that it urges the readers not to judge the people and their wisdom on the ground of their appearance and profession. Education is not the legacy of any university or other institutions. It is not confined to book learning or registering oneself in any colleges or elsewhere. It is attained through experience, so one should try to learn from everywhere.

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By Sir Abdur Raheem

Introduction:

• Poem: The Abbot of Canterbury
• Anonymous
• Olde Lyrical Ballad
• Folk Ballad
• South of England, Southern Ballad

About poem:
"THE ABBOT OF CANTERBURY" is an anonymous poem. The time of the poem is Medieval England, particularly the days of King John.

Theme:
Theme of the poem is England and as to type it is southern ballad. The style is entertaining even conversational.

Who is called Abbot?
Abbot is an ecclesiastical title given to the male head of a monastery in various Western religious traditions, including Christianity. The office may also be given as an honorary title to a clergyman who is not the head of a monastery.

What is Canterbury?
Canterbury (KENT) has been a European pilgrimage site of major importance for over 800 years since the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170. Today it is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in England.

SUMMARY

The Abbot of Canterbury was a wealthy man. John the King of England grew envious of him. He sent for the Abbot to his court. The king notified the abbot that if he failed to answer his three questions, his head would be cut off from his body. The first question was to tell the exact price of the king, along with his Crown, throne and courtiers. The second was to tell how much time it would take to go around the world. The third was to tell what the king was thinking at that moment. The king gave a time of three weeks to find out the answers.

The Abbot met many scholars, but no one could answer the questions. Eighteen days passed. One day the Abbot’s shepherd asked his permission to go to London and answer all the questions. The Abbot allowed him to do so. In the guise of the Abbot, the shepherd reached the court. In reply to the first question, he said that Prophet Christ was sold for thirty pence and so the price of the king was twenty- nine pence. In reply to the second question, he told that if the king got up with the sun, and travelled with it, he would complete the journey in twenty-four hours. In response to the third, he lets know that the king was thinking that he (the shepherd) was the Abbot, although he was his shepherd. The king was very happy. He gave the prize to the shepherd and forgave his master.

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By Faridi's Guide Book

Introduction:
"THE ABBOT OF CANTERBURY" is an Anonyms poem. The form of poem is ballad in which there is a story element.

SUMMARY

King John was the ruler of England. He ruled with great pomp and show. He could not see anyone in a better position than himself. The Abbot of Canterbury lived more luxuriously than the King. King John could not tolerate it. He got envious of him. He blamed him for treason and asked him three questions. He gave him a warning that he would be beheaded if he failed to answer the questions correctly.
The three questions were:

• What was King's worth?
• How long would it take the king to ride the whole world about?
• What was the king thinking?

The King gave him three weeks to answer his questions. Abbot went to Oxford to get the answers to these questions but to no avail. His shepherd came to his help and answered the questions in his place. The shepherd told the King that his worth was 29 pence, one penny less than that of Jesus Christ. The King would take 24 hours to ride the whole world about if he rode with the sun. The shepherd told him that the King was thinking that he was Abbot, however, he was only his shepherd. The King was pleased with the answers and pardoned him and his Abbot and agreed to give him four nobles a week.

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By Master Coching Center

Central Idea
The Abbot of Canterbury was unable to find out the answers of the three difficult questions asked by King John. Then he met shepherd and told him the story. The shepherd reminded Abbot the famous proverb and remelted that sometimes a foolish person might be able to teach a lesson of wisdom to wise man. Therefore, the shepherd appeared into the court of King John and answered his questions using his wit and wisdom that the king was pleased and delighted. He forgave the Abbot and the shepherd and also announced that he would give shepherd four nobles a week. Hence, we can say that wisdom is a God-gifted thing which can be bestowed upon anyone without education.

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By Admin

Introduction:
"The Abbot of Canterbury" is an anonymous ballad, describes the story of King John and the Abbot of Canterbury.

Summary
The Abbot of Canterbury was the leader of a wealthy monastery known for his generosity and rich lifestyle. King John, a cruel ruler, becomes jealous of the Abbot's luxurious life.
To show his anger, King John asked the Abbot three tricky questions:

i- What is the worth of King John with all his power and wealth?
ii- How long would it take the King to ride around the whole world?
iii- What is the King thinking at that very moment?
The Abbot was confused and couldnot answer these questions. However, his shepherd, who was loyal to him, decided to help by disguising himself as the Abbot. He gave clever answers to the King's questions.

For the first question, the shepherd said that King John's worth was like that of thirty pence, comparing him to Jesus Christ, who was betrayed for thirty pences of silver. He justified that even a king was not in any way better than the savior.

For the second question, he explained that if King John could travel with the sun, he would go around the world in just twenty-four hours. For the last question, he revealed that King John was thinking that the shepherd was the Abbot of Canterbury, had no idea that the man who was standing before him and answering the questions was not the Abbot, but his poor friend shepherd.

In the end, King John is impressed by the shepherd's smart answers. He rewards the shepherd and forgives both him and the Abbot. This ballad shows how wisdom and cleverness can win over power and pride.

Central Idea
The central idea of the poem "The Abbot of Canterbury" focuses on wit and cleverness as tools for overcoming adversity. When King John, driven by jealousy, threatens the Abbot with execution unless he answers three difficult questions within three weeks, the shepherd disguises himself as the Abbot and successfully answers the questions with intelligence and humor. This act not only saves the Abbot's life but also highlights the importance of quick thinking and resourcefulness in challenging situations. Ultimately, the poem celebrates the triumph of wisdom, which is a God-given gift that can be bestowed upon anyone, regardless of education, as well as the value of loyalty and friendship.

Moral
The moral of the poem is that wisdom does not come with education, It is the blessing of God. A person commonly understood as fool can some times teach the Wiseman well.

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Sur Khahori (Poem 7) - Reference To Context - English (Compulsory) For HSC Part 1

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English I (Compulsory)
For HSC Part 1
Poem 7 - Sur Khahori

By Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai
Translated In English by Professor Amina Khamisani

Reference To Context

Stanza 1:
Mother! I saw those, who have Beloved seen,
One must stay a night with those who with God have been,
Their recognition becomes a raft in this ocean of the world.

Reference To Context: These lines are taken from the Selection From Surr Khahori and the poet is Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. This poem is translated in English by Professor Amina Khamisani.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet, tells the approach of Khahoris. He tells his mother that he saw the people who are close to the Creator of the universe. He desires to stay a night in the company of these people. They are like a raft in the ocean, which can save one's life. He also wants to save his life and is sure that the wanderers are the people who can save them by guiding the true path. All the adventure is being done to save their character and spiritual entity.

OR

Explanation:
In these lines, the pot expresses to the mother that he has seen the people those who are beloved by God. He suggests that spending time with such individuals, who have a deep connection with the God, can lead to spiritual enlightenment. The phrase "Their recognition becomes a raft in this ocean of the world" implies that understanding and connecting with these spiritually elevated beings can provide guidance and support amidst the chaos of worldly life. By engaging with them, one can also attain a closer relationship with Allah, experiencing spiritual relief and elevation.

Stanza 2:
Khahoris prepared early to depart,
Searching in the rocks, reduced to bones they are,
Giving much trouble to their bodies, they sought their goal.

Reference To Context: These lines are taken from the Selection From Surr Khahori and the poet is Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. This poem is translated in English by Professor Amina Khamisani.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet tells more about the struggle of Khahoris. Khahoris start their search of spirimal power from early in the morning. They travel to the mountains and give pains to their bodies. They are in view to be more spiritual and stronger. For achieving such strength, they try to spend a difficult life. They prefer thorny path to the smooth one.

OR

Explanation:
In these lines, the poet describes the Khahoris as individuals who are habitual to rise early to embark their journey in watch of truth in Jungle, barren rocks and mountains, enduring significant physical hardships. They often spend days and nights without food or water in pursuit of their goal. Their willingness to endure pain and discomfort reflects their deep commitment to seeking spiritual enlightenment and truth, highlighting the sacrifices they make on their journey.

Stanza 3:
Their faces are dry, on their feet are slippers old and torn,
They traversed that land, where even the knowing ones are lost,
Their secretive ones, talk secrets of that far off land.

Reference To Context: These lines are taken from the Selection From Surr Khahori and the poet is Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. This poem is translated in English by Professor Amina Khamisani.
Explanation:
In these lines the poet tells that Khahoris do not care about their outward personalities. They never wash their faces properly, they never put a good slipper in their feet. They travelled to the place where all people cannot go. They build inner personality, in which they create secret language that helps them to communicate with their God.

OR

Explanation:
In these lines, the poet illustrates the physical toll of the Khahoris' relentless search for truth and spiritual enlightenment. Their dry faces, cracked lips, and blistered feet, clad in old and torn slippers, symbolize the sacrifices they make on their journey. They reach where even most learned experienced can't even dream. The "secretive ones" possess profound insights and communicate their certainties and revelations from the Divine, guiding their followers along the spiritual path. Their achievements, born from extreme self-discipline and mortification, reflect a deep connection with the Lord and a unique understanding of the spiritual realm.

Stanza 4:
Where not a trace of birds is seen, fire is lit,
Who save a group of ascetics can kindle it?

Reference To Context: These lines are taken from the Selection From Surr Khahori and the poet is Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. This poem is translated in English by Professor Amina Khamisani.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet tells that Khahoris try to go and spread knowledge there where even a bird cannot go. They never fear the hardships of life. They try to make the world bright everywhere.

OR

Explanation:
In these lines, the poet emphasizes the profound dedication of the ascetics, who have renounced worldly attachments. Even in desolate and barren landscapes, the ascetics maintain their spiritual practices. The poet implies that it is only these ascetics, through their deep understanding and focus on their spiritual journey, who can sustain the flame of enlightenment amidst the challenges of the wilderness. They remain steadfast in their pursuit, fully aware of their struggles and goals, and do not lose sight of their path.

Stanza 5:
Those who went to jungle were not misled,
Those on high way were way-laid,
Those who gave up both the worlds, were from ignorance saved.

Reference To Context: These lines are taken from the Selection From Surr Khahori and the poet is Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. This poem is translated in English by Professor Amina Khamisani.
Explanation:
In these lines, the poet says that Khahoris go to the jungle. If one want to get spiritual awareness, one should move there. They prefer to go there in order to root out ignorance from the jungle. They have quit the world for the sake of spiritual power. They seek to mitigate ignorance.

OR

Explanation:
In this verse, the poet contrasts the paths of different ascetics with other people. Ascetics are those who venture into the jungle, seeking solitude and spiritual truth, remain undeceived and true to their purpose. In contrast, those who follow the common path in life are often misled and distracted by worldly concerns. Finally, those who renounce both material and spiritual attachments find liberation from ignorance, achieving a deeper understanding of existence. The verse highlights the importance of true spiritual seeking and the wisdom that comes from letting go.

Stanza 6:
True seekers still exist,
Known only to those who are for spiritual realms,
Having found them, they have built their nests close to them.

Reference To Context: These lines are taken from the Selection From Surr Khahori and the poet is Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. This poem is translated in English by Professor Amina Khamisani.
Explanation:
These last lines are for the true seekers other than Khahoris. The poet says that if they want to search the truth, they should come close to their houses. From their houses, they can Search the spiritual realm.

OR

Explanation:
In this verse, the poet suggests that true seekers of God still exist in the world, but they are recognized only by those who genuinely seek to elevate their souls and earn divine blessings. These ascetics, who embody spiritual wisdom, attract those who are on a similar path. Once found, these seekers choose to live close to the ascetics, following in their footsteps and learning from their example. The verse emphasizes the importance of seeking out genuine spiritual guides to aid in one's own spiritual journey.