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Extract from the Play
The King of Ujjain sits upon his throne, surrounded by courtiers. The grand hall is adorned with rich
draperies
, tall columns, and a golden
canopy
. The King, regal in his bearing, watches intently as the Merchant and the Sentry bow before him.
KING
:
(Commanding)
What is the matter that brings you to my court?
SENTRY
:
Your Highness, this merchant has come with a
grievance
against four travellers. He accuses them of stealing his camel.
KING
:
Bring forth the accused.
The Sentry bows and exits, returning shortly with the four young men. They bow respectfully before the King, maintaining calm despite the
accusations
against them.
Summary in Bullet Points
- Scene II takes place in the King’s court. The hall is large and richly decorated.
- The Merchant comes before the King and makes a complaint against the four travellers.
- He says that the four men stole his camel.
-
The King asks for the four men to be brought before him. They remain calm and respectful even though they have been accused.
draperies
= long, thick decorative curtains
canopy = a decorative cover above a seat
grievance = complaint
accusations = claims that someone has done something wrong
Board Pattern
Questions Mapped to Exam Format
Short Answer
2 marks
What details make the King’s court look grand?
2 Marks
How to answer:
Name at least two features from the stage directions.
View Answer
Answer: The court has rich draperies, tall columns, a golden canopy and many courtiers around the King.
Longer Short Answer
3 marks
What do the entrance and behaviour of the four men show about them?
3 Marks
How to answer:
Use their bow and their calmness despite the accusation.
View Answer
Answer: The four men bow respectfully and remain calm even though they have been accused. This shows self-control, respect for the court and confidence that they can explain the truth.
