NCERT Solutions for Class 12 English Chapter 5 - Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers

Before You Read

1. What does the title of the poem suggest to you? Are you reminded of other poems on tigers?

Ans: "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" suggests that the poem is about Aunt Jennifer's knitted tigers, who become another universe of her creation with their chivalric, violent, bright, and carefree attitude. The tigers are her only outlet for unrestricted expression in a life otherwise dominated by dread and marital strife. There is other tiger poetry, some of which are listed below. "The Tiger" by William Blake "Tiger" by Alec Derwent Hope "Tiger Drinking at Forest Pool" by Ruth Padel.

Think about it

1. How do 'denizens' and 'chivalric' add to our understanding of the tiger's attitudes?

Ans: Denizens are animals that have become naturalized in a place or people who live there. Because tigers live in forests, the poet has appropriately classified them as "denizens of a world of green." Tigers are renowned for being masters of their territory. The poet also describes the tiger as "chivalrous." Chivalry is a phrase used to describe remarkable bravery in the face of danger. To further elucidate, the poet goes on to describe that the tigers were unafraid of the men standing under a tree and continued to prance with 'confidence.' The poet has used the phrase 'chivalric' since tigers are fierce, ferocious, and gallant creatures.

2. Why do you think Aunt Jennifer's hands are 'fluttering through her wool' in the second stanza? Why is she finding the needle so hard to pull?

Ans: Aunt Jennifer's hands are 'fluttering through her wool,' indicating that she is an elderly lady who has succumbed to the effects of time. Aunt Jennifer's fluttering fingers also represent her repressed mental state, as it is difficult for her to even pull an ivory needle when embroidering.

3. What is suggested by the image 'massive weight of Uncle's wedding band'?

Ans: The 'wedding band' referred to by the poet was Aunt Jennifer's wedding ring. The image of the massive weight of Uncle's wedding band symbolizes that after her marriage, she felt overloaded with tasks and responsibilities.

4. Of what or of whom is Aunt Jennifer terrified within the third stanza?

Ans: Aunt Jennifer is undoubtedly afraid of her chauvinist husband's persecution. She is constantly pressed by the duties and responsibilities of a married woman. Even after her death, the picture of her wedding band suggests that there was no way out of the traditions of her marriage and that she had to submit to them.

5.What are the 'ordeals' Aunt Jennifer is surrounded by? Why is it significant that the poet uses the word 'ringed'? What are the meanings of the word 'ringed' in the poem?

Ans: Aunt Jennifer had been following her husband's instructions in her daily life. Her life is unfulfilled and overloaded by the obligations and responsibilities of her married life. Despite her age and weakness, she continues to be oppressed by her husband. These are the tribulations that the poet speaks of. The poem's use of the word 'ringed' is essential and fitting since it accurately depicts Aunt Jennifer's entanglement in a vicious circle from which she is unable to break free.

The term 'ringed' denotes that she is not just wearing her wedding ring, but that she is also bound by the duties, dread, and oppression of her marriage for the rest of her life and, most likely, after it.

6. Why do you think Aunt Jennifer created animals that are so different from her character? What might the poet be suggesting, through this difference?

Ans: Aunt Jennifer discovered a way to live an alternate life that is denied to her: a life that is proud, free, courageous, and confident of itself by inventing animals that are distinct from her character. Her desire for power, independence, and fearless living is symbolized by the tigers. The poet may be alluding to patriarchal society's prejudices towards women, particularly married women, through this distinction.

7. Interpret the symbols found in this poem.

Ans: In the poem, the author uses a variety of symbols to communicate his thoughts and concerns. Tigers, men, a screen, and, most significantly, a ring are among them. On a screen, Aunt Jennifer has made tigers. Aunt Jennifer's hidden yearning for a life of independence and power is symbolized by these tigers. The screen on which she crocheted the tigers may represent the globe in general. The males beneath the tree could be individuals she knows, such as her husband. Her tigers are bold, proud, and free to strut about the screen or in the real world. The large wedding ring she wore on her finger symbolizes the trials and tribulations of her married life, which encircled her in a vicious circle that, according to the poet, will continue in death as well as in life.

8. Do you sympathize with Aunt Jennifer? What is the attitude of the speaker towards Aunt Jennifer?

Ans: Yes, as readers, we sympathize with Aunt Jennifer's character. The reader is moved by her trials and tribulations. Even the poem's speaker expresses affection and empathy for her. Even after Aunt Jennifer's death, the speaker claims, she would be afraid of her husband and the trials of her marriage.

Benefits of NCERT Solutions for Chapter 5: Aunt Jennifer’s Tiger

• Aunt Jennifer Tiger Question Answer provides in-depth explanations of the poem's themes, symbolism, and literary devices, helping students grasp Adrienne Rich's message effectively.

• They clarify complex themes such as gender roles, oppression, and artistic expression, making it easier for students to analyse and discuss these aspects in essays and exams.

• By exploring Aunt Jennifer's Tigers Questions And Answers, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for literature studies.

• They enhance students' appreciation of poetry by highlighting the poem's imagery, symbolism, and deeper meanings, fostering a deeper connection with literary works.

• Students can use Aunt Jennifer's Tigers Questions And Answers for self-assessment, checking their understanding, and identifying areas for improvement in their comprehension of poetic texts.

Apart from NCERT Solutions for Chapter 5 Aunt Jennifer’s Tiger, you can also refer to Class 12 Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers Summary for a better understanding of the Chapter.

Conclusion

Vedantu’s NCERT Solutions for Class 12 English Chapter 5 - "Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers" offers essential guidance for understanding the poem’s themes of feminism, freedom, and artistic expression. It emphasises analysing Aunt Jennifer’s symbolic tigers and her constrained life, fostering a deeper appreciation of poetic devices like metaphors and symbolism. Vedantu’s approach ensures students grasp both the literal and metaphorical layers of the poem, facilitating a holistic understanding.

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