RBSE Class 12th 2016 English Literature-SS-20-2016 Previous Year Papers
Class 12th students hunting authentic previous year papers for English Literature-SS-20-2016 (2016) land here for a reason: the paper below matches how RBSE assessments are remembered from that year. RBSE Solution does not mix years on one page; each combination gets its own notes.
Skim the overview sections, then work through the scanned pages. Pair this practice with RBSE books and solutions when you need to relearn a concept a question exposed.
Paper details
Quick reference for this previous year papers page — confirm board, class, and year & subject before you study.
| Board | RBSE |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 12th |
| Exam year | 2016 |
| Subject | English Literature-SS-20-2016 |
| Resource type | Previous Year Papers |
| Category | RBSE Previous Year Question Papers |
| Website | RBSE Solution |
The table summarises this Previous Year Papers resource. Confirm RBSE, Class 12th, year 2016, and subject English Literature-SS-20-2016 before studying.
RBSE Solution organises previous year papers so each URL carries chapter-specific guidance — better for students and for search engines than one generic paragraph for the whole class.
How to practise with this question paper
Stage one: read the English Literature-SS-20-2016 question paper from 2016 without a timer and highlight command words — explain, prove, calculate, discuss. Stage two: attempt selected questions closed-book. Stage three: compare with solutions or teacher feedback.
Previous Year Papers work best when you log mistakes by topic, not only by question number. That log becomes your revision index before pre-boards.
RBSE Class 12th 2016 English Literature-SS-20-2016
Scroll through the Previous Year Papers pages for English Literature-SS-20-2016 (2016).
Rajasthan Board Class 12th English Literature-SS-20-2016 2016 solved Previous Year Question Papers
SENIOR SECONDARY EXAMINATION, 2016
ENGLISH LITERATURE
Time: 3¼ Hours | Maximum Marks: 80
Roll No.: ____________________ | SI.No.: ____________________
No. of Questions: 2 | No. of Printed Pages: 07
Paper Code: S S-20-Eng. Lit.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS TO THE EXAMINEES:
- Candidate must write first his/her Roll No. on the question paper compulsorily.
- All the questions are compulsory.
- Write answers of all questions in your answer-book only.
- For questions having more than one part, the answers to those parts are to be written together in continuity.
- Write down the correct serial number of each question before attempting it.
SS—20-Eng. Lit. 47 [Turn Over]
TEAR HERE TO OPEN THE QUESTION PAPER
SECTION - A (Reading)
Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow:
Anyway, I was in Holmes's apartment one day when a tall, handsome man dressed in the uniform of a foreign country, came to see him. The man wore a mask and pretended to represent a second person, but Holmes soon recognized the man, addressed him as "Your Majesty," and the fellow then admitted that he was the king of Bohemia. He had come, he said, to ask Sherlock Holmes's help in a matter of great importance. It seems that five years earlier, before he had become king, he had been in Warsaw on a visit and had fallen in love with a beautiful American actress, Miss Irene Adler.
"I was crown prince at the time", he explained, "And I was young. Shortly after, I became king. Irene Adler was not of royal blood. My family and the members of the government found out about the matter and naturally insisted that I must give Miss Adler up. I loved her deeply, but my first responsibility was, naturally, to my country".
The king went on to explain that he was now about to be married to a princess of one of the neighboring countries and that Irene Adler, who was still apparently in love with him, had said that she was going to write to the princess and tell her all.
"Is it money Miss Adler wants?" asked Holmes.
"Heavens no!" said the king. "She is not that kind of person. She simply insists that she still loves me and she refuses to let me marry someone else".
"I suppose she has some letters of yours, but we can prove that they are false," said Holmes.
"They are written on my own private paper and in my own handwriting. She also has my photograph".
"We can prove that the paper was stolen and that your handwriting was copied. Anyone can buy your photograph".
-
How was the man who visited Holmes dressed?
The man was dressed in the uniform of a foreign country.
-
Why could the letters not be proved false?
The letters could not be proved false because they were written on the king's own private paper and in his own handwriting.
-
Where did the crown prince meet Irene Adler?
The crown prince met Irene Adler in Warsaw.
-
Why could the king not marry Adler?
The king could not marry Adler because she was not of royal blood, and his family and the members of the government insisted that he must give her up. His first responsibility was to his country.
-
What did the members of the government insist on?
The members of the government insisted that the king must give up Miss Adler.
SS-20-Eng. Lit. 47
Read the following poem and answer the questions that follow:
Behold her single in the field
Yon solitary Highland lass!
Reaping and Singing by herself;
Stop here or gently pass!Alone she cuts and binds the grain,
And sings a melancholy strain;
O listen! for the Vale profound
Is overflowing with the sound.Will no one tell me what she sings?
Perhaps the plaintive numbers flow
For old, unhappy, far off things,
And battles long ago:Or is it some more humble lay,
Familiar matter of today?
Some natural sorrow, loss or pain,
That has been, and may be again?
-
What is the Highland girl doing by herself?
The Highland girl is reaping (cutting) and binding the grain, and singing a song all by herself in the field.
-
'Stop here or gently pass!' Why does the writer say so?
The writer says this because he does not want anyone to disturb the girl's beautiful singing. He asks the passersby to either stop and listen to her song or pass by very quietly so as not to interrupt her.
-
According to the poet, what may be the theme of the girl's song?
According to the poet, the theme of the girl's song may be about old, unhappy, far-off things and battles long ago, or it could be about some humble, familiar matter of today—some natural sorrow, loss, or pain that has been and may be again.
-
What kind of song was being sung by the girl?
The girl was singing a melancholy (sad and plaintive) song. Her voice was so powerful that it filled the entire deep valley with its sound.
-
'The Vale profound is overflowing with the sound'. Explain.
This line means that the deep valley (vale profound) is completely filled with the sound of the girl's singing. Her voice echoes through the valley, making it seem as if the entire landscape is overflowing with her melancholy song.
SECTION - B (Writing)
Write an essay in about 150-200 words on any one of the following:
-
If I were a Millionaire
If I were a millionaire, I would use my wealth to make a positive difference in the world. First, I would ensure that my family and I live comfortably, but I would not waste money on unnecessary luxuries. I would donate a significant portion of my wealth to charities that help the poor, provide education to underprivileged children, and support medical research. I would also invest in starting small businesses to create jobs for people in my community. Additionally, I would set up scholarships for talented students who cannot afford higher education. I would travel to learn about different cultures and use my experiences to help others. However, I would remain humble and remember that money is a tool, not an end in itself. Being a millionaire would give me the opportunity to help others and live a meaningful life.
-
Importance of Newspaper
Newspapers play a vital role in our daily lives. They are a source of information about what is happening around the world. Newspapers keep us updated on current events, politics, sports, business, and entertainment. They help us form opinions and make informed decisions. Reading newspapers improves our vocabulary and general knowledge. They also provide a platform for people to express their views through letters and articles. In a democracy, newspapers are essential as they keep the government accountable and aware of public opinion. Despite the rise of digital media, newspapers remain a reliable and trusted source of news. They are affordable and accessible to all. In conclusion, newspapers are important for an informed and educated society.
4) A state level 'Science Fair' was organised by your school. Write a report on the closing function of the fair in about 50-200 words.
Report on the Closing Function of the State Level Science Fair
The state level 'Science Fair' organised by our school concluded with a grand closing function on [Date] in the school auditorium. The event was graced by the presence of the District Education Officer as the chief guest. The function began with a welcome address by the Principal, followed by a detailed report on the fair's activities. Students from various schools showcased innovative models and projects on themes like renewable energy, robotics, and environmental conservation. The chief guest praised the participants for their creativity and scientific temper. Prizes and certificates were awarded to the winners in different categories. The event ended with a vote of thanks, leaving everyone inspired and motivated.
OR
Speech on "How Yoga Makes Mind and Body Sound"
Good morning, respected teachers and dear friends. Today, I am here to speak on the topic "How Yoga Makes Mind and Body Sound". Yoga is an ancient practice that unites the mind, body, and spirit. Through various asanas and breathing exercises, yoga improves physical flexibility, strength, and posture. It also calms the mind, reduces stress, and enhances concentration. Regular practice of yoga helps in maintaining a healthy body and a peaceful mind. It teaches us discipline and self-awareness. In today's fast-paced world, yoga is a powerful tool to achieve balance and harmony. Let us all adopt yoga in our daily lives for a sound mind and body. Thank you.
SECTION - C (Grammar)
5) In the following passage each line has an error. Edit the passage by identifying the wrong word/ an inappropriate expression, strike it off; then write the correct word in your answer-book as shown in the example:
Example: We came down safely, however, and for a few moments there was completely complete silence.
| Line | Incorrect Word/Expression | Correct Word/Expression |
|---|---|---|
| a) Then the cockpit door swing open | swing | swung |
| b) and such the stream of profanity poured out | such | a |
| c) that I thought the fuel will | will | would |
| d) with reverence, the pilot a | a | appeared |
| e) Later, one of the crews to | to | told |
| f) though the crew may esca | esca | escape |
| g) he near to death you people have ever been ? | he | How |
| h) catch fire | catch | caught |
| i) When I was listening to this | listening | hearing |
| j) the passengers was always killed | was | were |
6) Read the conversation given below and fill in the blanks in indirect speech:
Conversation:
Sarah: I say, Jane, just bring me a sheet of writing-paper, will you? For I must write a letter.
Jane: Where am I to find it.
Sarah: Why, there is plenty in my mistress's letter-case in the parlour.
Indirect Speech:
Sarah called out to Jane and asked her to bring her a sheet of writing-paper, as she had to write a letter. Jane asked her where she was to find it. Sarah replied that there was plenty in her mistress's letter-case in the parlour.
SECTION - D
(Textual)
Read the following extract and answer the questions that follow :
What was known of Captain Hagberd in the little seaport of Colebrook was not exactly in his favour. He did not belong to the place. He had come to settle there under circumstances not at all mysterious — he used to be very communicative about them at the time — but extremely morbid and unreasonable. He was possessed of some little money evidently, because he bought a plot of ground, and had a pair of ugly yellow brick cottages run up very cheaply.
- "He had come to settle there ....." What does the word 'there' refer to?
The word 'there' refers to the little seaport of Colebrook.
- Why were circumstances not at all mysterious?
The circumstances were not at all mysterious because Captain Hagberd used to be very communicative about them at the time.
- How was the writer possessed of some little money?
The writer was possessed of some little money evidently because he bought a plot of ground and had a pair of ugly yellow brick cottages run up very cheaply.
OR
To be really free implies great sensitivity. There is no freedom if you are enclosed by self-interest or by various walls of discipline. As long as your life is a process of imitation there can be no sensitivity, no freedom. It is very important, while you are here, to sow the seed of freedom, which is to awaken intelligence; for with that intelligence you can tackle all the problems of life.
- What does freedom imply?
Freedom implies great sensitivity.
- Why is it very important to sow the seed of freedom?
It is very important to sow the seed of freedom because it awakens intelligence, and with that intelligence one can tackle all the problems of life.
- What awakens intelligence?
Sowing the seed of freedom awakens intelligence.
Read the extract and answer the questions that follow:
To Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love
All pray in their distress;
And to these virtues of delight
Return their thankfulness
- What do all pray in their distress?
All pray to Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love in their distress.
- To what do they return their thankfulness?
They return their thankfulness to these virtues of delight (Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love).
9)
For Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love
Is God our father dear,
And Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love
Is Man, his child and care.
- Who is Man, his child and care? Explain.
Man is described as God's child and care because he embodies the virtues of Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love. According to the poet, these divine qualities make man a reflection of God, and thus God cares for him as a father cares for his child.
- What are the virtues of delight to whom all pray in their distress?
The virtues of delight are Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love. All people pray to these virtues in their distress, as they are seen as divine attributes that bring comfort and relief.
- Who is God according to the poet?
According to the poet, God is the loving father who is the source of Mercy, Pity, Peace, and Love. He is dear to humanity and cares for all as his children.
OR
The trees are in their autumn beauty,
The woodland paths are dry
Under the October twilight the water
Mirrors a still sky;
Upon the brimming water among the stones
Are nine - and - fifty swans.
- What is reflected in the water of the lake?
The still sky is reflected in the water of the lake.
- Where does the writer see swans in the lake?
The writer sees the swans upon the brimming water among the stones.
- In which part of the day is the writer depicting the swans?
The writer is depicting the swans during the October twilight, which is the evening time.
Answer the questions in about 100 words each (any two):
-
How did Frau Frieda get her job at the first house? (J Sell my Dreams)
Frau Frieda got her job at the first house through a chance encounter. She was walking down the street when a woman called out to her from a window, asking if she was looking for work. Frau Frieda replied that she was, and the woman hired her on the spot. This impulsive hiring reflected the mysterious and dreamlike nature of Frau Frieda's life, where opportunities seemed to come to her without effort, much like the dreams she claimed to sell.
-
Write a short summary of the poem 'Kubla Khan' or 'A Vision in a Dream: A Fragment'. (Kubla Khan or A vision in a Dream: A Fragment)
Samuel Taylor Coleridge's 'Kubla Khan' is a fragmentary poem describing the mythical pleasure dome built by the Mongol ruler Kubla Khan in Xanadu. The poem vividly portrays the sacred river Alph, which flows through caverns measureless to man and sinks into a sunless sea. It contrasts the ordered, man-made dome with the wild, natural forces of the earth, including a deep romantic chasm and a fountain that throws up huge rocks. The poem ends with the speaker imagining a vision of a damsel with a dulcimer, and if he could revive her music, he would build that dome in air, warning others to beware of his flashing eyes and floating hair.
-
Write a short note on Mukund Padmanabhan's interview with Umberto Eco (Film-making)
In Mukund Padmanabhan's interview, Umberto Eco discusses his approach to film-making and writing. Eco explains that he sees film-making as a collaborative art, unlike writing which is solitary. He emphasizes that his novels, such as 'The Name of the Rose', are structured like films, with careful attention to rhythm and visual imagery. Eco also talks about the importance of interpretation and how his academic work as a semiotician influences his creative writing. He notes that while film-making requires teamwork and compromise, writing allows him complete control over his vision, making both forms distinct yet complementary in his career.
Answer the questions in about 50 words each (any four):
-
What type of attitude did Dr. Margolin have towards his profession? (A Wedding in Brownsville)
Dr. Margolin had a dedicated and compassionate attitude towards his profession. He was a caring doctor who treated his patients with kindness and respect, often going beyond his duties to ensure their well-being. He took pride in his work and maintained a professional yet warm demeanor, showing genuine concern for the people he served.
-
How do the shadows before noon differ from the shadows after noon? (A Lecture Upon the Shadow)
In John Donne's poem, shadows before noon are described as deceiving because they make things appear longer or shorter than they are, representing the early stages of love where there is still some concealment. Shadows after noon, however, are clearer and more truthful, symbolizing the mature phase of love where everything is open and honest, with no deception.
SECTION - D (Non-Fiction)
(c) Why does the author consider the novel superior to philosophy, science or even poetry? (Why the Novel Matters)
The author considers the novel superior because it deals with the whole man—body, mind, and spirit—as a unified being. Philosophy, science, and poetry often focus on abstract ideas or isolated aspects of human experience, whereas the novel captures life in its fullness, complexity, and wholeness. It presents living, breathing characters and their interactions, making it more relevant to actual human existence.
(d) What are the difficulties that the writer of science fiction mystery faces? (On Science Fiction)
The writer of science fiction mystery faces the difficulty of balancing scientific plausibility with the demands of a gripping mystery. They must create a believable futuristic or alien setting while ensuring the mystery's clues and solutions are logical and satisfying. Additionally, they must avoid overwhelming the reader with technical jargon and maintain human interest amidst the scientific elements.
(e) The mother has an important role in Prakriti's self-realisation. How? (Chandalika)
In Chandalika, Prakriti's mother plays a crucial role in her self-realisation by grounding her in the harsh realities of their social status as untouchables. While Prakriti is initially enchanted by the Buddhist monk Ananda's compassion, her mother reminds her of the deep-rooted caste prejudices and the futility of seeking acceptance. Through her mother's wisdom and painful experiences, Prakriti ultimately understands that true liberation comes from within, not from external validation.
SECTION - E (Fiction)
Answer the following question in about 60 words: [4]
Narrate the encounter of the tiger with the tigress.
The tiger, while roaming in the forest, encountered a beautiful tigress. He was immediately captivated by her grace and strength. The tigress, initially wary, soon responded to his advances. They circled each other, communicating through growls and body language. Their encounter was a mix of tension and attraction, culminating in a brief but intense bonding before they parted ways, each continuing their solitary journey.
OR
Draw a character sketch of Jayaraj.
Jayaraj is portrayed as a brave and resourceful man, deeply connected to the forest and its wildlife. He is a skilled hunter and tracker, possessing immense knowledge of animal behaviour. Despite his rugged exterior, he shows compassion and respect for nature. He is loyal to his friends and fearless in the face of danger. His character embodies the spirit of adventure and the complex relationship between humans and the wild.
Answer the following question in about 100 words: [6]
How did Captain capture the tiger?
Captain captured the tiger using a combination of strategy and courage. First, he studied the tiger's movements and identified its regular path through the forest. He then set up a large, sturdy cage trap baited with fresh meat near a waterhole the tiger frequented. After several days of waiting, the tiger, driven by hunger, entered the cage. Captain, along with his team, carefully secured the trap door. He then used tranquiliser darts to sedate the tiger before transporting it safely to a wildlife sanctuary, ensuring minimal harm to the animal.
OR
"Every creature is born with a potential store of violence." Discuss.
The statement suggests that violence is an inherent potential in all living beings, including humans. This potential is often a survival instinct—animals use it for hunting or self-defence, while humans may resort to it when threatened or provoked. However, unlike animals, humans have the capacity for reason, empathy, and moral choice. While the potential for violence exists, it can be controlled through education, social norms, and self-discipline. The novel illustrates this through the tiger, which is violent by nature but can be managed, and through human characters who must choose between aggression and compassion. Thus, the potential is universal, but its expression depends on circumstances and conscious choice.
SS—20-Eng. Lit. 47