পশ্চিমবঙ্গ উচ্চমাধ্যমিক (HS) 12 শ্রেণির 3rd সেমিস্টারের ছাত্রছাত্রীদের জন্য “Riders to the Sea” একটি একাঙ্কিকা ট্রাজেডি (one-act tragedy) যা আইরিশ নাট্যকার J. M. Synge রচিত। এই নাটকটি West Bengal HS English 3rd Semester syllabus-এর অন্তর্ভুক্ত, এবং এটি 4th Semester-এও থাকবে, যেখানে descriptive প্রশ্নগুলো আসবে। তবে এই 3rd Semester-এ শুধুমাত্র MCQ, Short Question-Answer এবং Objective type প্রশ্ন আসবে।
শিক্ষার্থীদের জন্য কিছু গুরুত্বপূর্ণ সাজেশন, নাটকের বাংলা ও ইংরেজি মিলিয়ে সহজ সারাংশ (summary), চরিত্র পরিচিতি (character list), মূল থিম ও মেসেজ (theme and message) এবং গুরুত্বপূর্ণ MCQ ও ছোট প্রশ্নোত্তর (with answers)।
Riders to the Sea নাটকটি West Bengal HS English-এর Class 12-এর দু’টি সেমিস্টারে বিভক্তভাবে যুক্ত করা হয়েছে:
- 3rd Semester: শুধুমাত্র MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions) এবং SAQ (Short Answer Questions) আসে।
- 4th Semester: এখানেই থাকে Descriptive Answer (Long Question) লেখার সুযোগ।
এই ক্লাসে আমরা কেবলমাত্র 3rd Semester অনুযায়ী প্রস্তুতি নেব। অর্থাৎ, MCQ এবং ছোট প্রশ্নের দৃষ্টিকোণ থেকে সব কিছু প্রস্তুত করব।
RIDERS TO THE SEA – J. M. SYNGE: Overall Summary + Theme (সংক্ষিপ্ত সারাংশ ও মূল ভাব)
“Riders to the Sea” is a one-act tragedy written by J. M. Synge, an Irish playwright.
It is a powerful and symbolic play portraying the life of the Aran Islands’ fishing community, especially the sorrow and suffering of Maurya, an old mother who loses all her sons to the sea.
This play explores the deep relationship between man and nature (the sea) and how the sea becomes both a giver and a destroyer of life.
“Riders to the Sea” হলো একটি একাঙ্কিকা ট্র্যাজেডি (one-act tragedy), যেখানে এক বৃদ্ধা মা মরিয়া তাঁর ছয় ছেলেকে সমুদ্রের রোষে হারান।
এই নাটকটি আয়ারল্যান্ডের Aran Islands-এর একটি দরিদ্র পরিবারকে ঘিরে, যেখানে সমুদ্রই জীবিকা আবার মৃত্যুর কারণ।
মূল থিম হলো:
- প্রকৃতির উপর মানুষের অসহায়তা,
- ভাগ্যের কাছে পরাজয়,
- মা ও সন্তানের সম্পর্ক,
- এবং মৃত্যুকে মেনে নেওয়ার নীরব আত্মসমর্পণ।
নাটকটি সংক্ষিপ্ত হলেও অত্যন্ত গভীর এবং প্রতীকধর্মী, যেখানে সমুদ্র একেবারে একটি জীবন্ত চরিত্রের মতো — জীবন দেয়, আবার কেড়ে নেয়।
| Character | Role |
|---|---|
| Maurya | A poor old mother who loses all her sons to the sea. |
| Cathleen | Maurya’s elder daughter – calm and practical. |
| Nora | Maurya’s younger daughter – innocent and emotional. |
| Bartley | The last surviving son of Maurya. |
| Michael | One of Maurya’s sons, presumed dead. |
| The Priest | Symbolic – represents religion and fate. |
RIDERS TO THE SEA MCQ Question Answer: Choose The Corect Alternative Type MCQs
1. Who is the playwright of “Riders to the Sea”?
(a) J.M. Barrie
(b) J.M. Synge
(c) W.B. Yeats
(d) Samuel Beckett
Answer: (b) J.M. Synge
2. Where is the play “Riders to the Sea” set?
(a) Donegal
(b) Dublin
(c) Inishmaan
(d) Galway
Answer: (c) Inishmaan
3. When was “Riders to the Sea” first performed?
(a) 1900
(b) 1902
(c) 1904
(d) 1911
Answer: (c) 1904
4. What inspired Synge to write “Riders to the Sea”?
(a) A mythological tale
(b) A real-life incident in Inishmaan
(c) A Shakespearean tragedy
(d) A Celtic legend
Answer: (b) A real-life incident in Inishmaan
5. Which theme is central to “Riders to the Sea”?
(a) Comedy and laughter
(b) Political conflict
(c) Fate and human suffering
(d) Romance and adventure
Answer: (c) Fate and human suffering
6. Who is the main female character in “Riders to the Sea”?
(a) Cathleen
(b) Maurya
(c) Nora
(d) Deirdre
Answer: (b) Maurya
7. How does Maurya lose her sons?
(a) In a war
(b) Due to a plague
(c) To the sea
(d) In an accident
Answer: (c) To the sea
8. Which element of literature is prominent in the play?
(a) Satire
(b) Tragic irony
(c) Science fiction
(d) Romance
Answer: (b) Tragic irony
9. What does Maurya see in her vision that foretells Bartley’s death?
(a) A white horse and a grey pony
(b) A sinking ship
(c) A burning house
(d) A crying child
Answer: (a) A white horse and a grey pony
10. How many sons has Maurya lost to the sea before Bartley?
(a) Four
(b) Five
(c) Six
(d) Seven
Answer: (c) Six
11. What item confirms Michael’s death?
(a) A coat
(b) A walking stick
(c) A pair of stockings
(d) A hat
Answer: (c) A pair of stockings
12. What does Maurya accept at the end of the play?
(a) The power of fate
(b) The hope of a better future
(c) The need for revenge
(d) The return of her sons
Answer: (a) The power of fate
13. What literary movement is Synge associated with?
(a) Romanticism
(b) Modernism
(c) The Irish Literary Revival
(d) Realism
Answer: (c) The Irish Literary Revival
14. What role do women play in the tragedy?
(a) They represent hope and survival
(b) They are symbols of wisdom and suffering
(c) They seek revenge for lost loved ones
(d) They actively challenge fate
Answer: (b) They are symbols of wisdom and suffering
15. What natural element is most significant in the play?
(a) Fire
(b) Wind
(c) Sea
(d) Earth
Answer: (c) Sea
16. What emotion dominates the play?
(a) Joy
(b) Hope
(c) Fear
(d) Sorrow
Answer: (d) Sorrow
17. What symbolizes death and fate in the play?
(a) The grey pony
(b) The spinning wheel
(c) The broken boat
(d) The church bell
Answer: (a) The grey pony
18. What is the tone of the play?
(a) Humorous
(b) Optimistic
(c) Tragic and solemn
(d) Suspenseful
Answer: (c) Tragic and solemn
19. What is the significance of the title “Riders to the Sea”?
(a) It symbolizes those who challenge the sea
(b) It refers to fishermen who survive the sea
(c) It represents the eternal struggle between man and nature
(d) It describes a mythical story about ocean travelers
Answer: (c) It represents the eternal struggle between man and nature
20. What is the final message of the play?
(a) The sea is merciful
(b) No one can escape fate
(c) Hard work brings success
(d) Love conquers all
Answer: (b) No one can escape fate
21. Where is the play “Riders to the Sea” set?
(a) A village in England
(b) An island off the west coast of Ireland
(c) A town in Scotland
(d) A coastal city in France
Answer: (b) An island off the west coast of Ireland
22. What object is Cathleen kneading at the beginning of the scene?
(a) Dough for cake
(b) Clay for pottery
(c) Wool for spinning
(d) Bread for selling
Answer: (a) Dough for cake
23. What does Nora bring into the house under her shawl?
(a) A bundle of food
(b) A fishing net
(c) A shirt and stocking from a drowned man
(d) A letter from Michael
Answer: (c) A shirt and stocking from a drowned man
24. Where was the drowned man found?
(a) Donegal
(b) Galway
(c) Dublin
(d) Cork
Answer: (a) Donegal
25. Why does the young priest say no one should tell Maurya if the clothes are not Michael’s?
(a) She might become violent
(b) She will be relieved
(c) She will die from grief
(d) She will leave the house
Answer: (c) She will die from grief
26. What is the significance of the wind blowing the door open when Nora half-closes it?
(a) It represents bad weather
(b) It foreshadows Bartley’s fate
(c) It is an accident
(d) It means someone is coming
Answer: (b) It foreshadows Bartley’s fate
27. What does Cathleen do with the bundle?
(a) Burns it
(b) Hides it in the turf-loft
(c) Gives it to Bartley
(d) Throws it into the sea
Answer: (b) Hides it in the turf-loft
28. What does Maurya assume about Bartley’s journey?
(a) He will return soon
(b) He will be safe
(c) The priest will stop him
(d) He will make a fortune
Answer: (c) The priest will stop him
29. What does Maurya believe about the sea?
(a) It is calm and beautiful
(b) It always takes lives
(c) It provides food and wealth
(d) It protects their family
Answer: (b) It always takes lives
30. What natural element plays a crucial role in the play?
(a) Fire
(b) Wind
(c) Rain
(d) Sea
Answer: (d) Sea
31. What item does Bartley ask for before leaving?
(a) A fishing net
(b) A piece of rope
(c) A lantern
(d) A boat
Answer: (b) A piece of rope
32. Why does Maurya tell Bartley to leave the rope?
(a) She wants to use it later
(b) She believes it will be needed for Michael’s burial
(c) She thinks it is cursed
(d) She wants to fix the roof with it
Answer: (b) She believes it will be needed for Michael’s burial
33. Who predicts Bartley’s death?
(a) Cathleen
(b) Maurya
(c) The young priest
(d) Nora
Answer: (b) Maurya
34. What does Bartley plan to do with the rope?
(a) Secure the horses
(b) Catch fish
(c) Climb the cliff
(d) Tie a boat
Answer: (a) Secure the horses
35. What is the tone of the play?
(a) Cheerful
(b) Tragic and solemn
(c) Romantic
(d) Mysterious
Answer: (b) Tragic and solemn
36. Why does Bartley leave despite the warnings?
(a) He wants to prove his bravery
(b) He needs to sell horses at the fair
(c) He does not believe in bad omens
(d) He is angry at his mother
Answer: (b) He needs to sell horses at the fair
37. How does the sea function symbolically in the play?
(a) It represents death and fate
(b) It symbolizes happiness and joy
(c) It is a place of opportunity
(d) It is a barrier to the outside world
Answer: (a) It represents death and fate
38. What is Maurya’s emotional state throughout the play?
(a) Hopeful
(b) Fearful and sorrowful
(c) Excited
(d) Indifferent
Answer: (b) Fearful and sorrowful
39. What does Maurya see in her vision?
(a) A storm destroying their home
(b) A white horse and a grey pony
(c) A ship sinking
(d) A bright light
Answer: (b) A white horse and a grey pony
40. How many of Maurya’s sons have been lost to the sea before Bartley?
(a) Four
(b) Five
(c) Six
(d) Seven
Answer: (c) Six
41. What does Maurya say about the young priest?
(a) He is wise and kind
(b) He cannot stop Bartley
(c) He is lying about Michael
(d) He should bless the house
Answer: (b) He cannot stop Bartley
42. What is Bartley’s mood when he enters?
(a) Cheerful
(b) Determined but sad
(c) Angry
(d) Fearful
Answer: (b) Determined but sad
43. What does Maurya ultimately accept at the end of the play?
(a) That Bartley will return
(b) That she is destined to lose all her sons
(c) That the sea is not dangerous
(d) That the priest was right
Answer: (b) That she is destined to lose all her sons
44. What does Cathleen do when Bartley asks for the rope?
(a) Gives it to him immediately
(b) Tries to stop him from taking it
(c) Asks Nora to find it
(d) Hides it from him
Answer: (c) Asks Nora to find it
45. What is the primary conflict in “Riders to the Sea”?
(a) Man vs. Nature
(b) Man vs. Society
(c) Man vs. Himself
(d) Man vs. Technology
Answer: (a) Man vs. Nature
46. How does the play portray the power of fate?
(a) By showing how Maurya’s predictions come true
(b) By suggesting that humans can control their future
(c) By showing that hard work leads to success
(d) By proving that prayers always work
Answer: (a) By showing how Maurya’s predictions come true
47. What does Maurya do after Bartley leaves?
(a) Prays for his safety
(b) Runs after him to stop him
(c) Prepares food for his journey
(d) Starts crying immediately
Answer: (a) Prays for his safety
48. What does the presence of the spinning wheel symbolize?
(a) The passage of time and women’s traditional role
(b) The strength of the sea
(c) The family’s wealth
(d) A connection to Michael
Answer: (a) The passage of time and women’s traditional role
49. What type of drama is “Riders to the Sea”?
(a) Comedy
(b) Tragedy
(c) Historical drama
(d) Romantic drama
Answer: (b) Tragedy
50. What do the “new boards” in the house foreshadow?
(a) A new boat being built
(b) A coffin for Bartley
(c) A repair to the house
(d) A new table
Answer: (b) A coffin for Bartley
51. Why does the young priest give the clothes to Nora and Cathleen?
(a) To confirm Michael’s death
(b) To keep them as souvenirs
(c) To sell them for money
(d) To burn them
Answer: (a) To confirm Michael’s death
52. What does the play emphasize about human life?
(a) The struggle against uncontrollable forces
(b) The power of money
(c) The ability to change destiny
(d) The importance of education
Answer: (a) The struggle against uncontrollable forces
53. What is Bartley’s ultimate fate in the play?
(a) He successfully sells the horses and returns
(b) He drowns in the sea
(c) He decides to stay home
(d) He is saved by fishermen
Answer: (b) He drowns in the sea
54. What does Maurya say after she realizes Bartley is dead?
(a) “God has left me alone.”
(b) “The sea has taken all.”
(c) “They’re all gone now, and there isn’t anything more the sea can do to me.”
(d) “I will never forgive the sea.”
Answer: (c) “They’re all gone now, and there isn’t anything more the sea can do to me.”
55. What role does the priest play in the story?
(a) He brings news and offers spiritual comfort
(b) He warns Bartley to stay at home
(c) He helps Maurya financially
(d) He forbids the women from opening the bundle
Answer: (a) He brings news and offers spiritual comfort
56. What do the white horse and grey pony symbolize in Maurya’s vision?
(a) The arrival of good news
(b) The spirits of the dead guiding Bartley
(c) The need to leave the island
(d) The bad weather approaching
Answer: (b) The spirits of the dead guiding Bartley
57. How does Maurya react when she sees Bartley leaving?
(a) She remains silent and watches
(b) She tries to bless him but is unable to speak
(c) She encourages him to go quickly
(d) She chases after him to stop him
Answer: (b) She tries to bless him but is unable to speak
58. What is the theme of “Riders to the Sea”?
(a) The struggle between rich and poor
(b) The helplessness of humans against nature
(c) The importance of education
(d) The conflict between science and religion
Answer: (b) The helplessness of humans against nature
59. What does Maurya do after Bartley’s body is brought in?
(a) She screams in grief
(b) She calmly accepts her fate
(c) She faints from shock
(d) She runs to the sea
Answer: (b) She calmly accepts her fate
60. What message does the play convey about life on the island?
(a) It is peaceful and safe
(b) It is full of hardships and loss
(c) It is a place of opportunity
(d) It is isolated but happy
Answer: (b) It is full of hardships and loss
61. Why does Bartley decide to leave despite his mother’s warning?
(a) He needs to sell horses at the fair
(b) He wants to visit his friends in Galway
(c) He is running away from home
(d) He is angry at his mother
Answer: (a) He needs to sell horses at the fair
62. What does Maurya see as a bad omen before Bartley leaves?
(a) A raven sitting on the roof
(b) A star against the moon
(c) A storm forming in the distance
(d) A broken mirror in the house
Answer: (b) A star against the moon
63. What does Maurya give to Bartley as he leaves?
(a) A coin for his journey
(b) A prayer and a blessing
(c) A piece of bread
(d) A new coat
Answer: (c) A piece of bread
64. Why does Maurya initially refuse to give Bartley her blessing?
(a) She is angry with him
(b) She believes he is going to his death
(c) She wants him to stay home
(d) She is too weak to speak
Answer: (b) She believes he is going to his death
65. What is Bartley’s last words before leaving?
(a) “I’ll be back soon.”
(b) “God bless you all.”
(c) “The blessing of God on you.”
(d) “Wait for me at the shore.”
Answer: (c) “The blessing of God on you.”
66. Why does Cathleen send Maurya to give Bartley the bread?
(a) To break the bad omen
(b) To make sure he has food for the journey
(c) To convince him to stay
(d) To remind him to buy supplies
Answer: (a) To break the bad omen
67. What does Bartley ride to the pier?
(a) A white horse
(b) A black mare
(c) A red mare
(d) A donkey
Answer: (c) A red mare
68. What animal follows Bartley as he leaves?
(a) A grey pony
(b) A white dog
(c) A black goat
(d) A brown horse
Answer: (a) A grey pony
69. Why does Maurya hesitate to go to the pier?
(a) She is afraid of the sea
(b) She feels too weak to walk
(c) She believes Bartley is already doomed
(d) She doesn’t want to say goodbye
Answer: (b) She feels too weak to walk
70. What does Maurya take to support herself while walking?
(a) A walking stick
(b) A piece of rope
(c) A wooden board
(d) A small stone
Answer: (a) A walking stick
71. What is Maurya’s greatest fear?
(a) Losing Bartley to the sea
(b) Running out of food
(c) Living in poverty
(d) The priest refusing to help
Answer: (a) Losing Bartley to the sea
72. What natural force plays a major role in the play?
(a) Fire
(b) Wind
(c) Sea
(d) Earthquake
Answer: (c) Sea
73. What does Maurya compare the loss of her sons to?
(a) A storm destroying a house
(b) A tree losing its leaves
(c) A graveyard filling up
(d) A mother bird losing her chicks
Answer: (b) A tree losing its leaves
74. What represents death in the play?
(a) The color white
(b) The sound of the waves
(c) The grey pony
(d) The strong wind
Answer: (c) The grey pony
75. Why does Maurya believe Bartley will not return?
(a) She had a vision of his death
(b) The priest told her so
(c) He was weak and sick
(d) He promised never to come back
Answer: (a) She had a vision of his death
76. What is the primary setting of the play?
(a) A fishing village
(b) A marketplace
(c) A church
(d) A city street
Answer: (a) A fishing village
77. What happens immediately after Bartley leaves?
(a) The wind gets stronger
(b) Maurya collapses
(c) The cake burns
(d) The priest arrives
Answer: (a) The wind gets stronger
78. Why is Maurya unable to stop Bartley from leaving?
(a) He refuses to listen
(b) She is too sick to move
(c) The priest encourages him to go
(d) The other villagers convince him to leave
Answer: (a) He refuses to listen
79. What is the role of women in the play?
(a) They manage the household and grieve for lost men
(b) They go fishing with the men
(c) They handle trade and money
(d) They make important village decisions
Answer: (a) They manage the household and grieve for lost men
80. What lesson does the play teach about fate?
(a) Hard work can change destiny
(b) Fate is unavoidable and humans are powerless
(c) Prayer can change fate
(d) Luck is more important than effort
Answer: (b) Fate is unavoidable and humans are powerless
81. What does Maurya believe about the sea?
(a) It is a source of life and prosperity
(b) It takes more than it gives
(c) It is kind to those who respect it
(d) It is under human control
Answer: (b) It takes more than it gives
82. Why does Maurya mention the boards she bought?
(a) She plans to build a table
(b) She wants to sell them for money
(c) She fears they will be used for Bartley’s coffin
(d) She wants to make a new door
Answer: (c) She fears they will be used for Bartley’s coffin
83. Why does Maurya refuse to look at Bartley as he leaves?
(a) She is angry with him
(b) She believes it is the last time she will see him
(c) She is too busy with housework
(d) She is praying for his safe return
Answer: (b) She believes it is the last time she will see him
84. What event is Bartley preparing for?
(a) A marriage ceremony
(b) A fishing expedition
(c) A horse fair
(d) A church gathering
Answer: (c) A horse fair
85. What does Cathleen criticize Maurya for?
(a) Not blessing Bartley before he left
(b) Refusing to cook dinner
(c) Selling the pig at a low price
(d) Ignoring the priest’s advice
Answer: (a) Not blessing Bartley before he left
86. What does Bartley ask Cathleen to do while he is gone?
(a) Take care of the sheep and the pig
(b) Prepare a feast for his return
(c) Keep the house clean
(d) Watch for a storm
Answer: (a) Take care of the sheep and the pig
87. What does Bartley wear before leaving?
(a) A fine white shirt
(b) A newer flannel coat
(c) A fisherman’s cap
(d) A woolen scarf
Answer: (b) A newer flannel coat
88. What does Maurya compare her suffering to?
(a) A lost ship at sea
(b) A mother losing all her sons
(c) A bird without wings
(d) A graveyard full of the dead
Answer: (b) A mother losing all her sons
89. What task does Cathleen tell Nora to do?
(a) Find a stick for Maurya
(b) Fetch water from the well
(c) Light a candle for Bartley
(d) Watch the sea for Bartley’s return
Answer: (a) Find a stick for Maurya
90. How does Maurya react after Bartley leaves?
(a) She starts preparing dinner
(b) She sits quietly and prays
(c) She cries out that she will never see him again
(d) She runs after him
Answer: (c) She cries out that she will never see him again
91. What does Cathleen say about old women?
(a) They should listen to the younger generation
(b) They should not interfere in men’s affairs
(c) They repeat the same words over and over
(d) They are wise and respected
Answer: (c) They repeat the same words over and over
92. What is Maurya doing while Cathleen bakes the bread?
(a) Sweeping the floor
(b) Raking the fire aimlessly
(c) Watching the sea
(d) Praying for Bartley
Answer: (b) Raking the fire aimlessly
93. What does Cathleen realize after Bartley leaves?
(a) They forgot to give him money
(b) They forgot to give him his bit of bread
(c) They forgot to warn him about the storm
(d) They forgot to tie the pig
Answer: (b) They forgot to give him his bit of bread
94. Why is it important for Maurya to give Bartley the bread?
(a) To make sure he does not go hungry
(b) To break the bad omen and give him a blessing
(c) To show him love and care
(d) To remind him of home
Answer: (b) To break the bad omen and give him a blessing
95. What do the women expect Bartley to do?
(a) Return in two to four days
(b) Stay at the fair for a month
(c) Send them money from the fair
(d) Never return
Answer: (a) Return in two to four days
96. What natural element makes the sea more dangerous?
(a) A strong west wind
(b) Heavy fog
(c) A high tide
(d) Lightning storms
Answer: (a) A strong west wind
97. What does Maurya predict about her future?
(a) She will see no son left alive
(b) She will move to the city
(c) She will remarry
(d) She will never speak again
Answer: (a) She will see no son left alive
98. What does Maurya fear the most?
(a) Dying alone
(b) Losing Bartley like her other sons
(c) Losing her house
(d) Being abandoned by Cathleen and Nora
Answer: (b) Losing Bartley like her other sons
99. What is the significance of the cake Cathleen is baking?
(a) It represents daily life continuing despite tragedy
(b) It is a traditional offering to the sea
(c) It is a wedding cake for Bartley’s future
(d) It is meant for the priest
Answer: (a) It represents daily life continuing despite tragedy
100. What does the play emphasize the most?
(a) The power of money
(b) The inevitability of fate
(c) The importance of love
(d) The strength of youth
Answer: (b) The inevitability of fate
101. What does Maurya say about old people in the big world?
(a) They leave things behind for their children
(b) They take everything with them
(c) They always struggle to survive
(d) They are forgotten by society
Answer: (a) They leave things behind for their children
102. What does Maurya say happens in their place instead?
(a) The young leave things behind for the old
(b) The old keep everything for themselves
(c) The young and old share everything
(d) The young take everything from the old
Answer: (a) The young leave things behind for the old
103. What does Cathleen suspect Maurya might do?
(a) Return quickly because she is too sad
(b) Leave the house and never return
(c) Go to the sea and call Bartley back
(d) Talk to the priest for help
Answer: (a) Return quickly because she is too sad
104. What does Nora check when Maurya leaves?
(a) If she has really gone
(b) If she has taken money with her
(c) If she has locked the door
(d) If she has spoken to Bartley
Answer: (a) If she has really gone
105. Why does Cathleen ask Nora to hurry?
(a) She wants to see the bundle before Maurya returns
(b) She is afraid of the storm
(c) She does not want Maurya to hear them
(d) She needs to leave for Galway
Answer: (a) She wants to see the bundle before Maurya returns
106. What did the young priest say about the bundle?
(a) They could confirm if it belonged to Michael
(b) It contained food for Bartley
(c) It was left behind by an unknown sailor
(d) It was lost at sea for many years
Answer: (a) They could confirm if it belonged to Michael
107. How was the body in the sea found?
(a) Two men rowing at dawn caught it with an oar
(b) A fisherman saw it floating
(c) It washed up on the shore
(d) A boat captain reported it
Answer: (a) Two men rowing at dawn caught it with an oar
108. Where was the body found?
(a) Near the black cliffs of the north
(b) On the shores of Donegal
(c) In a deep sea trench
(d) Near Bartley’s boat
Answer: (a) Near the black cliffs of the north
109. Why does Cathleen need a knife to open the bundle?
(a) The string is damaged by salt water
(b) The bundle is tied too tightly
(c) She does not want to untie it
(d) She is in a hurry
Answer: (a) The string is damaged by salt water
110. Why does Cathleen mention Donegal?
(a) The body might have floated there
(b) It is where Michael was last seen
(c) She plans to travel there
(d) A sailor from Donegal brought news
Answer: (a) The body might have floated there
111. How long does it take to walk to Donegal from their place?
(a) Seven days
(b) Three days
(c) Ten days
(d) Five days
Answer: (a) Seven days
112. What do the sisters find in the bundle?
(a) A stocking
(b) A coat
(c) A shoe
(d) A hat
Answer: (a) A stocking
113. Why is it difficult to confirm if the stocking belonged to Michael?
(a) Many people wear similar stockings
(b) It is torn and unrecognizable
(c) It is too dirty to see clearly
(d) The stitches are missing
Answer: (a) Many people wear similar stockings
114. How does Nora confirm it belongs to Michael?
(a) By counting the stitches
(b) By checking the color
(c) By smelling the fabric
(d) By looking at the initials
Answer: (a) By counting the stitches
115. What does Cathleen say when she realizes it is Michael’s?
(a) “God spare us, Nora!”
(b) “We must tell Maurya now!”
(c) “We should burn it!”
(d) “Michael is alive!”
Answer: (a) “God spare us, Nora!”
116. What does Nora say is pitiful about Michael’s fate?
(a) Only a stocking remains of him
(b) He died so young
(c) He never returned home
(d) He was never found properly
Answer: (a) Only a stocking remains of him
117. What does Cathleen imagine keening for Michael?
(a) The black hags on the sea
(b) The waves of the ocean
(c) The lost spirits of sailors
(d) The wind in the cliffs
Answer: (a) The black hags on the sea
118. Why do the sisters hide the bundle?
(a) They do not want to upset Maurya before Bartley leaves
(b) They are afraid of the priest
(c) They do not believe it is Michael’s
(d) They want to keep it as a memory
Answer: (a) They do not want to upset Maurya before Bartley leaves
119. Where do they hide the bundle?
(a) In the chimney corner
(b) Under the table
(c) In a wooden box
(d) Under the bed
Answer: (a) In the chimney corner
120. What does Cathleen return to doing after hiding the bundle?
(a) Spinning at the wheel
(b) Cooking food
(c) Praying for Bartley
(d) Mending clothes
Answer: (a) Spinning at the wheel
121. What does Nora worry about when Maurya returns?
(a) If she will notice they have been crying
(b) If she brought Bartley back
(c) If she found another bundle
(d) If she spoke to the priest
Answer: (a) If she will notice they have been crying
122. What does Cathleen tell Nora to do to hide her tears?
(a) Keep her back to the door
(b) Wipe her face with a cloth
(c) Cover her face with a shawl
(d) Sit far from the fire
Answer: (a) Keep her back to the door
123. What does Maurya still hold in her hand when she returns?
(a) The cloth with the bread
(b) A letter from the priest
(c) A piece of Michael’s clothing
(d) A handful of seaweed
Answer: (a) The cloth with the bread
124. What does Cathleen ask Maurya when she sits down?
(a) If she gave Bartley his bread
(b) If she spoke to the priest
(c) If she saw Michael’s ghost
(d) If she found Bartley’s horse
Answer: (a) If she gave Bartley his bread
125. How does Maurya respond to Cathleen’s question?
(a) She starts keening softly
(b) She nods in silence
(c) She looks away and sighs
(d) She tells them to stop asking
Answer: (a) She starts keening softly
126. What does Maurya’s keening indicate?
(a) Her deep sorrow and loss
(b) Her anger at Bartley
(c) Her belief that Bartley will return
(d) Her frustration with Cathleen and Nora
Answer: (a) Her deep sorrow and loss
127. What does Nora do while Maurya keens?
(a) Sits silently with her back to the door
(b) Comforts Cathleen
(c) Tries to calm Maurya
(d) Leaves the house
Answer: (a) Sits silently with her back to the door
128. Why do the sisters keep quiet when Maurya returns?
(a) They do not want to add to her sorrow
(b) They are afraid of her anger
(c) They want to see if she knows about Michael
(d) They are thinking of what to say
Answer: (a) They do not want to add to her sorrow
129. What emotion dominates the scene as Maurya returns?
(a) Deep sorrow and tension
(b) Anger and frustration
(c) Joy and relief
(d) Surprise and confusion
Answer: (a) Deep sorrow and tension
130. Why is the moment of Maurya’s return significant?
(a) It marks the beginning of her realization of loss
(b) It signals Bartley’s return
(c) It shows her strength
(d) It leads to a happy ending
Answer: (a) It marks the beginning of her realization of loss
131. Why does Cathleen spin at the wheel after hiding the bundle?
(a) To distract herself from grief
(b) To prepare wool for Bartley
(c) To show she is not affected
(d) To keep herself warm
Answer: (a) To distract herself from grief
132. Why does Maurya not look at the girls when she enters?
(a) She is lost in sorrow
(b) She is angry with them
(c) She is too tired to speak
(d) She is searching for Bartley
Answer: (a) She is lost in sorrow
133. What does Nora fear most when Maurya enters?
(a) That she will realize they have been crying
(b) That she will fall sick from grief
(c) That she will refuse to eat
(d) That she will go looking for Bartley
Answer: (a) That she will realize they have been crying
134. Why does Cathleen tell Nora to keep her back to the door?
(a) So Maurya won’t see her tears in the light
(b) So Maurya won’t ask her questions
(c) So she can secretly hide the bundle
(d) So she can leave unnoticed
Answer: (a) So Maurya won’t see her tears in the light
135. What does Maurya’s keening symbolize?
(a) The deep sorrow of losing her sons
(b) A curse on the sea
(c) Her anger at the priest
(d) Her hope that Bartley will return
Answer: (a) The deep sorrow of losing her sons
136. Why do the girls hide the truth from Maurya at that moment?
(a) To prevent her from breaking down while Bartley is at sea
(b) To make her believe Michael is still alive
(c) To avoid getting scolded by her
(d) To delay telling the priest
Answer: (a) To prevent her from breaking down while Bartley is at sea
137. Why does Maurya still hold the bread in her hand?
(a) She was unable to give it to Bartley
(b) She forgot to eat it herself
(c) She brought it back for the girls
(d) She wanted to give it to Michael’s spirit
Answer: (a) She was unable to give it to Bartley
138. What does Cathleen’s question about the bread suggest?
(a) She hopes Bartley has eaten before leaving
(b) She wants to take it back for herself
(c) She doubts Maurya actually went to see Bartley
(d) She wants to test Maurya’s memory
Answer: (a) She hopes Bartley has eaten before leaving
139. How does Maurya’s silence affect the mood of the scene?
(a) It deepens the sadness and tension
(b) It makes the sisters hopeful
(c) It brings relief to the house
(d) It creates confusion and misunderstanding
Answer: (a) It deepens the sadness and tension
140. What does this passage mainly portray?
(a) The overwhelming grief of loss
(b) The joy of reunion
(c) The mystery of the sea
(d) The strength of the young generation
Answer: (a) The overwhelming grief of loss
141. What does Maurya say her heart is broken from?
(a) Seeing Michael again
(b) Losing all her sons
(c) Watching Bartley leave
(d) The hardships of old age
Answer: (b) Losing all her sons
142. Why does Cathleen insist that Maurya tell them what she saw?
(a) To understand her vision
(b) To comfort her mother
(c) To prove she is wrong
(d) To warn Bartley
Answer: (a) To understand her vision
143. What does Maurya see following Bartley?
(a) Michael on the gray pony
(b) A ghostly figure
(c) The priest
(d) A group of fishermen
Answer: (a) Michael on the gray pony
144. How does Cathleen react to Maurya’s vision?
(a) She dismisses it as an illusion
(b) She believes it as a bad omen
(c) She gets angry at her mother
(d) She prays for Bartley’s safety
Answer: (b) She believes it as a bad omen
145. What is the significance of Michael wearing fine clothes and new shoes?
(a) It symbolizes his burial and passage to the afterlife
(b) It means he is alive and well
(c) It shows he has returned from the north
(d) It indicates his wealth
Answer: (a) It symbolizes his burial and passage to the afterlife
146. What does Maurya predict after seeing Michael?
(a) Bartley will be lost at sea
(b) Michael will return home
(c) The priest will bless Bartley
(d) The sea will calm down
Answer: (a) Bartley will be lost at sea
147. What does Maurya request the girls to do?
(a) Call Eamon to make a coffin
(b) Find Bartley immediately
(c) Pray for Michael’s soul
(d) Fetch the priest
Answer: (a) Call Eamon to make a coffin
148. How many sons has Maurya lost?
(a) Three
(b) Five
(c) Six
(d) Seven
Answer: (c) Six
149. What happened to Stephen and Shawn?
(a) They drowned in a great wind
(b) They moved to another country
(c) They died in a war
(d) They were lost in the mountains
Answer: (a) They drowned in a great wind
150. Where were Stephen and Shawn found?
(a) Near their home
(b) In the Bay of Gregory of the Golden Mouth
(c) Lost in the Atlantic
(d) On a deserted island
Answer: (b) In the Bay of Gregory of the Golden Mouth
151. What does the half-open door symbolize?
(a) The uncertainty of life and death
(b) A warning of an incoming storm
(c) The arrival of a stranger
(d) The return of Michael
Answer: (a) The uncertainty of life and death
152. What do the women wear when they enter the house?
(a) Black cloaks
(b) Red petticoats over their heads
(c) White shawls
(d) Fishermen’s coats
Answer: (b) Red petticoats over their heads
153. What does Maurya say about young men floating in the sea?
(a) It is difficult to identify a body after nine days
(b) They always return home
(c) They can be saved by prayers
(d) They never truly die
Answer: (a) It is difficult to identify a body after nine days
154. Why does Maurya question whether Michael was truly found?
(a) Because bodies change after floating in the sea
(b) Because she believes Michael is still alive
(c) Because she thinks it was Bartley instead
(d) Because she doubts the priest’s words
Answer: (a) Because bodies change after floating in the sea
155. What item does Cathleen hand to Maurya?
(a) Michael’s clothes
(b) Bartley’s coat
(c) A fishing net
(d) A prayer book
Answer: (a) Michael’s clothes
156. Why does Maurya believe she won’t live much longer?
(a) She has lost all her sons
(b) She is too old to work
(c) She has seen a bad omen
(d) She has fallen sick
Answer: (a) She has lost all her sons
157. What does the priest tell the family about God?
(a) He wouldn’t leave Maurya with no son living
(b) He will bring Michael back
(c) He will make Bartley a rich man
(d) He will calm the sea
Answer: (a) He wouldn’t leave Maurya with no son living
158. What does Maurya recall seeing when she lost her other sons?
(a) Men carrying bodies wrapped in a red sail
(b) A vision of angels
(c) A priest praying over the sea
(d) A strong storm at night
Answer: (a) Men carrying bodies wrapped in a red sail
159. Why do the women cross themselves when they enter?
(a) To show respect for the dead
(b) To ward off bad luck
(c) To prepare for a meal
(d) To bless Bartley’s journey
Answer: (a) To show respect for the dead
160. What is the overall mood of this passage?
(a) Deep sorrow and resignation
(b) Joy and celebration
(c) Fear and anger
(d) Hope for the future
Answer: (a) Deep sorrow and resignation
161. Why does Nora whisper to Cathleen about a noise outside?
(a) She thinks something bad has happened
(b) She wants to scare her sister
(c) She hears Bartley returning
(d) She believes it is Michael’s spirit
Answer: (a) She thinks something bad has happened
162. How does Cathleen respond to Nora’s whisper?
(a) She listens carefully
(b) She ignores her
(c) She runs outside
(d) She tells Maurya to stop talking
Answer: (a) She listens carefully
163. What does Maurya mean when she says “It’s little the like of him knows of the sea”?
(a) The priest doesn’t understand the sea’s dangers
(b) Bartley is a bad fisherman
(c) The priest is wrong about Michael
(d) The sea is unpredictable
Answer: (a) The priest doesn’t understand the sea’s dangers
164. What does the arrival of old women foreshadow?
(a) Bad news about Bartley
(b) The return of Michael
(c) A wedding announcement
(d) A storm coming
Answer: (a) Bad news about Bartley
165. What does Maurya believe about Bartley’s fate?
(a) He is going to die at sea
(b) He will return safely
(c) He will become rich
(d) He will find Michael
Answer: (a) He is going to die at sea
166. How does Cathleen react to Maurya’s vision of Michael?
(a) She is horrified and begins to keen
(b) She laughs it off
(c) She ignores her mother
(d) She calls for the priest
Answer: (a) She is horrified and begins to keen
167. Why does Maurya find it difficult to speak when she sees Bartley?
(a) She is choked with fear
(b) She is angry at him
(c) She doesn’t believe he is real
(d) She wants to test him
Answer: (a) She is choked with fear
168. What element of folklore is present in Maurya’s vision?
(a) Seeing the dead as an omen
(b) A magical sea creature
(c) A curse from an old woman
(d) A priest’s supernatural powers
Answer: (a) Seeing the dead as an omen
169. What do Maurya’s repeated losses symbolize?
(a) The power of nature over human life
(b) The success of fishermen
(c) The safety of the sea
(d) The strength of youth
Answer: (a) The power of nature over human life
170. Why does Maurya recall past losses in detail?
(a) To show the pain she has endured
(b) To entertain the others
(c) To blame Bartley
(d) To confuse the priest
Answer: (a) To show the pain she has endured
171. What does Maurya say when she realizes Bartley will be lost?
(a) “God will protect him.”
(b) “I will not live after them.”
(c) “The priest must save him.”
(d) “We must wait for his return.”
Answer: (b) “I will not live after them.”
172. What does Maurya recall about the deaths of her husband and sons?
(a) Some were lost and some were found
(b) They all died together in a storm
(c) They died peacefully at home
(d) The priest had warned them
Answer: (a) Some were lost and some were found
173. Why is Maurya’s vision of Michael significant?
(a) It foreshadows Bartley’s fate
(b) It proves Michael is still alive
(c) It means the family will be wealthy
(d) It shows Maurya is imagining things
Answer: (a) It foreshadows Bartley’s fate
174. What does the sea symbolize in the play?
(a) Life and death
(b) A pathway to heaven
(c) A place of adventure
(d) A source of happiness
Answer: (a) Life and death
175. How does Cathleen react when Maurya speaks of Michael’s vision?
(a) She starts keening
(b) She scolds her mother
(c) She prays for Bartley
(d) She refuses to listen
Answer: (a) She starts keening
176. Why does Maurya feel powerless?
(a) She has lost all her sons to the sea
(b) She is unable to stop Bartley
(c) The priest does not listen to her
(d) The storm is too strong
Answer: (a) She has lost all her sons to the sea
177. What does Maurya tell Cathleen and Nora to do after Bartley leaves?
(a) Prepare a coffin
(b) Follow Bartley to the sea
(c) Pray for his safe return
(d) Call the priest for help
Answer: (a) Prepare a coffin
178. What does the arrival of the old women signify?
(a) Death and mourning
(b) A village celebration
(c) A warning from the priest
(d) The return of Bartley
Answer: (a) Death and mourning
179. Why does Cathleen say “It’s destroyed we are from this day”?
(a) She realizes Bartley is doomed
(b) She lost all their money
(c) She sees a storm coming
(d) She hears Michael’s voice
Answer: (a) She realizes Bartley is doomed
180. Why does Maurya believe Michael’s body may not have been found?
(a) The sea changes the appearance of the dead
(b) The priest may be lying
(c) She thinks he is still alive
(d) She believes another man was mistaken for Michael
Answer: (a) The sea changes the appearance of the dead
181. What is Maurya’s final acceptance in the play?
(a) She cannot fight fate
(b) She must leave the island
(c) She should not have let Bartley go
(d) She will take revenge on the sea
Answer: (a) She cannot fight fate
182. What does Maurya do when she sees the white boards?
(a) She accepts Bartley’s death
(b) She refuses to believe he is dead
(c) She prays for a miracle
(d) She asks the priest to bless them
Answer: (a) She accepts Bartley’s death
183. Why does Maurya say that the priest knows little of the sea?
(a) Because he does not understand its dangers
(b) Because he never worked as a fisherman
(c) Because he told them Bartley would be safe
(d) Because he is new to the village
Answer: (c) Because he told them Bartley would be safe
184. What is the purpose of Maurya’s long speech about her lost sons?
(a) To show the suffering she has endured
(b) To warn other fishermen
(c) To ask for help from the priest
(d) To make Cathleen and Nora feel guilty
Answer: (a) To show the suffering she has endured
185. What literary device is used when Maurya sees Michael on the gray pony?
(a) Foreshadowing
(b) Metaphor
(c) Irony
(d) Simile
Answer: (a) Foreshadowing
186. Why does Maurya mention the red sail?
(a) It was used to carry a dead body
(b) It symbolizes the sea’s danger
(c) It was Bartley’s boat
(d) It is a sign of hope
Answer: (a) It was used to carry a dead body
187. What does the presence of the old women kneeling symbolize?
(a) Mourning and loss
(b) A prayer for safe return
(c) The village’s respect for Maurya
(d) A sign of celebration
Answer: (a) Mourning and loss
188. What role does the gray pony play in the story?
(a) It symbolizes death
(b) It is a gift from Michael
(c) It helps Bartley escape
(d) It shows Michael’s wealth
Answer: (a) It symbolizes death
189. Why is Maurya unable to bless Bartley when he leaves?
(a) She is choked with emotion
(b) She does not want him to go
(c) She is angry at him
(d) She is praying for Michael
Answer: (a) She is choked with emotion
190. What is the central theme of this passage?
(a) The inevitability of fate and death
(b) The power of love and hope
(c) The need for revenge against the sea
(d) The struggles of working-class life
Answer: (a) The inevitability of fate and death
191. What are the men carrying when they arrive?
(a) A coffin for Michael
(b) A fishing net
(c) Bartley’s body on a plank
(d) A bundle of Michael’s clothes
Answer: (c) Bartley’s body on a plank
192. What does Nora notice about the object being carried?
(a) It is covered in seaweed
(b) It is dripping water
(c) It is wrapped in a red cloth
(d) It smells of fish
Answer: (b) It is dripping water
193. How does Cathleen confirm Bartley’s fate?
(a) She checks his pulse
(b) She asks the women who entered
(c) She sees his face clearly
(d) She listens for his breathing
Answer: (b) She asks the women who entered
194. How did Bartley die?
(a) He was lost at sea in a storm
(b) He fell from a boat
(c) The gray pony knocked him into the sea
(d) He was attacked by a sea creature
Answer: (c) The gray pony knocked him into the sea
195. Where was Bartley’s body found?
(a) Near the village well
(b) Floating in the open sea
(c) On the white rocks
(d) Inside a fisherman’s hut
Answer: (c) On the white rocks
196. What is the reaction of the women in the house?
(a) They begin keening softly
(b) They run away in fear
(c) They start preparing food
(d) They call for the priest
Answer: (a) They begin keening softly
197. Where does Maurya kneel after Bartley’s body is brought in?
(a) By the fireplace
(b) At the head of the table
(c) Near the door
(d) Beside the dresser
Answer: (b) At the head of the table
198. What does Maurya say about the sea?
(a) It is calm and peaceful
(b) It has taken all her sons
(c) It is a blessing for fishermen
(d) It will soon return Michael
Answer: (b) It has taken all her sons
199. What does Maurya ask Nora to give her?
(a) A candle
(b) The Holy Water
(c) A piece of cloth
(d) A wooden cross
Answer: (b) The Holy Water
200. What does Maurya do with Michael’s clothes?
(a) She burns them
(b) She places them across Bartley’s feet
(c) She hides them in a chest
(d) She washes them in the sea
Answer: (b) She places them across Bartley’s feet
201. Why does Maurya say she will now have great rest?
(a) She has found peace in prayer
(b) She will no longer worry about the sea
(c) She has enough food to survive
(d) She is moving to another village
Answer: (b) She will no longer worry about the sea
202. What does Maurya say about her prayers for Bartley?
(a) She never prayed for him
(b) She prayed day and night
(c) She only prayed for Michael
(d) She did not believe in prayers
Answer: (b) She prayed day and night
203. What does Cathleen ask an old man to do?
(a) Bring a priest
(b) Make a coffin for Bartley
(c) Dig a grave in the morning
(d) Call the neighbors for mourning
Answer: (b) Make a coffin for Bartley
204. What kind of boards does Cathleen say they have for the coffin?
(a) Rough wooden boards
(b) Old and broken boards
(c) Fine white boards
(d) Boards taken from a boat
Answer: (c) Fine white boards
205. Why did Maurya buy the white boards?
(a) To repair the house
(b) To build a boat
(c) For Michael’s coffin
(d) To sell in the market
Answer: (c) For Michael’s coffin
206. What did Cathleen forget to buy for the coffin?
(a) Nails
(b) A shroud
(c) A hammer
(d) A rope
Answer: (a) Nails
207. Why is it surprising that Cathleen forgot the nails?
(a) She always remembers everything
(b) She has seen many coffins being made
(c) She wrote a list but did not follow it
(d) She was not paying attention
Answer: (b) She has seen many coffins being made
208. Why does Cathleen say Maurya is becoming forgetful?
(a) She is old and broken
(b) She is always busy with prayers
(c) She never pays attention
(d) She does not care anymore
Answer: (a) She is old and broken
209. What does Maurya do before kneeling again?
(a) She sprinkles the last of the Holy Water
(b) She covers Bartley’s face
(c) She calls the priest
(d) She lights a candle
Answer: (a) She sprinkles the last of the Holy Water
210. What does Nora whisper to Cathleen about Maurya?
(a) She is crying too much
(b) She is calmer than when Michael drowned
(c) She wants to leave the house
(d) She is calling for Bartley
Answer: (b) She is calmer than when Michael drowned
211. What does Cathleen say about Maurya’s sorrow?
(a) It has made her stronger
(b) It has tired her after nine days of grieving
(c) It is a sign of weakness
(d) It is not real
Answer: (b) It has tired her after nine days of grieving
212. What does Maurya do at the end of the scene?
(a) She blesses Bartley and her dead sons
(b) She leaves the house
(c) She prepares a meal
(d) She stops talking completely
Answer: (a) She blesses Bartley and her dead sons
213. What does Maurya place on the table at the end?
(a) A cup turned upside down
(b) A candle
(c) A loaf of bread
(d) A piece of Bartley’s clothing
Answer: (a) A cup turned upside down
214. What does Maurya say about Michael’s burial?
(a) He has a clean burial in the north
(b) He will never be found
(c) The priest lied about his death
(d) She will go looking for him
Answer: (a) He has a clean burial in the north
215. How does Maurya describe Bartley’s burial?
(a) He will have a fine coffin and a deep grave
(b) He will be buried at sea
(c) There will be no proper burial
(d) The priest will decide how he is buried
Answer: (a) He will have a fine coffin and a deep grave
216. What does Maurya say people cannot do?
(a) Escape fate and death
(b) Leave the island forever
(c) Trust the sea
(d) Depend on the priest
Answer: (a) Escape fate and death
217. What do the women do after Maurya finishes speaking?
(a) They keen louder and then lower their voices
(b) They leave the house
(c) They stop mourning completely
(d) They pray in silence
Answer: (a) They keen louder and then lower their voices
218. What is the final message Maurya conveys?
(a) People must accept fate
(b) She will never stop grieving
(c) The sea is a curse
(d) Life is full of endless suffering
Answer: (a) People must accept fate
219. How does the scene end?
(a) Maurya kneels as the curtain falls
(b) The priest arrives with news
(c) The women start dancing
(d) The men take Bartley’s body away
Answer: (a) Maurya kneels as the curtain falls
220. What is the overall theme of the passage?
(a) The power of fate and human helplessness
(b) The happiness of village life
(c) The rewards of faith and prayers
(d) The dangers of working in the city
Answer: (a) The power of fate and human helplessness
Assertion & Reasoning Type MCQs from RIDERS TO THE SEA
221. Assertion (A): Maurya was deeply worried about Bartley going to sea.
Reason (R): She had already lost many sons to the sea and feared losing Bartley as well.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
222. Assertion (A): Bartley ignored Maurya’s concerns and went to the sea.
Reason (R): He had faith in his mother’s superstitions.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (c) A is true, but R is false.
223. Assertion (A): The sea is a dominant force in “Riders to the Sea.”
Reason (R): The sea provides livelihood but also takes lives in the play.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
224. Assertion (A): Michael’s body was recovered and given a proper burial.
Reason (R): The villagers found his body washed up on the shore.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is false, but R is true.
(d) Both A and R are false.
Answer: (d) Both A and R are false.
225. Assertion (A): The women in the village keen when someone dies.
Reason (R): Keening is a traditional Irish mourning practice.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
226. Assertion (A): Cathleen and Nora hide Michael’s clothes from Maurya.
Reason (R): They fear that revealing the clothes will cause Maurya more distress.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
227. Assertion (A): Bartley takes the gray pony to the sea.
Reason (R): He believes the gray pony is safer than the red mare.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (c) A is true, but R is false.
228. Assertion (A): Maurya sees a vision of Michael’s ghost following Bartley.
Reason (R): This foreshadows Bartley’s inevitable fate.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is false, but R is true.
(d) A is true, but R is false.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
229. Assertion (A): Maurya sprinkles Holy Water on Bartley’s body.
Reason (R): She does this as part of a Catholic funeral ritual.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is false, but R is true.
(d) A is true, but R is false.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
230. Assertion (A): The old man agrees to build a coffin for Bartley.
Reason (R): He believes it will bring him good fortune.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (c) A is true, but R is false.
231. Assertion (A): Bartley drowns after falling from the gray pony.
Reason (R): The pony threw him off into the rough sea.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
232. Assertion (A): Maurya no longer fears the sea at the end of the play.
Reason (R): She has lost all her sons and has nothing left to fear.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is false, but R is true.
(d) A is true, but R is false.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
233. Assertion (A): Maurya’s final speech in the play reflects acceptance of fate.
Reason (R): She realizes that death is inevitable and the sea has taken everything from her.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is false, but R is true.
(d) A is true, but R is false.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
234. Assertion (A): Cathleen is the most emotional character in the play.
Reason (R): She cries the loudest and mourns the most after Bartley’s death.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is false, but R is true.
(d) Both A and R are false.
Answer: (d) Both A and R are false.
235. Assertion (A): The play “Riders to the Sea” highlights the struggle of the Irish people against nature.
Reason (R): The characters constantly battle the sea for survival, which ultimately overpowers them.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
236. Assertion (A): The gray pony symbolizes Bartley’s fate.
Reason (R): The gray pony was responsible for knocking Bartley into the sea.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
237. Assertion (A): Nora was more hopeful than Maurya about Bartley’s return.
Reason (R): She believed that Bartley’s strong will would save him from the dangers of the sea.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
238. Assertion (A): The presence of the Holy Water in the play signifies faith and protection.
Reason (R): Maurya sprinkles Holy Water over Bartley’s body to purify his soul.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is false, but R is true.
(d) A is true, but R is false.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
239. Assertion (A): The villagers blame Maurya for Bartley’s death.
Reason (R): They believe that Maurya’s negative words caused bad luck for Bartley.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) Both A and R are false.
Answer: (d) Both A and R are false.
240. Assertion (A): “Riders to the Sea” is a tragedy that depicts human helplessness.
Reason (R): The characters are powerless against nature’s forces, leading to inevitable loss.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is false, but R is true.
(d) A is true, but R is false.
Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
True/False Type MCQs Question Answer (Riders to the SEA Play)
241. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) Maurya had only two sons.
(ii) Cathleen forgot to buy nails for Bartley’s coffin.
(iii) The gray pony knocked Bartley into the sea.
(iv) The priest was present during Bartley’s funeral.
(a) True, False, True, False
(b) False, True, True, False
(c) True, True, False, True
(d) False, False, True, True
Answer: (b) False, True, True, False
242. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) The play is set in a rural fishing village.
(ii) Maurya was indifferent to Bartley’s death.
(iii) The women in the play keen as part of mourning.
(iv) The sea is depicted as a gentle and kind force.
(a) True, False, True, False
(b) False, True, False, True
(c) True, False, True, True
(d) True, True, False, False
Answer: (a) True, False, True, False
243. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) Bartley was the last surviving male in Maurya’s family.
(ii) The priest told Maurya that no harm would come to Bartley.
(iii) Maurya saw Michael’s ghost following Bartley.
(iv) The old man offered to build a coffin for Bartley.
(a) True, True, True, True
(b) True, False, True, True
(c) False, True, False, True
(d) True, False, True, False
Answer: (b) True, False, True, True
244. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) The play takes place over multiple days.
(ii) The sea is both a giver and taker of life in the play.
(iii) Bartley drowns after falling from the gray pony.
(iv) Maurya finally finds peace after Bartley’s death.
(a) False, True, True, True
(b) True, False, False, True
(c) False, True, False, True
(d) True, True, True, False
Answer: (a) False, True, True, True
245. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) Cathleen and Nora are Bartley’s sisters.
(ii) Michael’s body was recovered and given a proper burial.
(iii) The play explores themes of fate and loss.
(iv) Bartley’s death fulfills Maurya’s worst fears.
(a) True, False, True, True
(b) False, True, False, True
(c) True, True, False, False
(d) True, False, False, True
Answer: (a) True, False, True, True
246. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) The play is written in the form of a tragedy.
(ii) The women in the village do not mourn the dead.
(iii) Maurya sprinkles Holy Water on Bartley’s body.
(iv) The play shows how the sea controls the lives of the characters.
(a) True, False, True, True
(b) False, False, True, True
(c) True, True, False, False
(d) True, False, False, True
Answer: (a) True, False, True, True
247. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) The setting of the play is in an Irish fishing community.
(ii) Maurya is portrayed as a strong and resilient woman.
(iii) Bartley was planning to sell horses at the fair.
(iv) The play ends on a hopeful note.
(a) True, True, True, False
(b) False, True, False, True
(c) True, False, True, True
(d) True, True, False, False
Answer: (a) True, True, True, False
248. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) Bartley ignored Maurya’s warning and went to sea.
(ii) The gray pony was the cause of Bartley’s death.
(iii) The villagers were surprised by Bartley’s death.
(iv) The play emphasizes the power of human control over nature.
(a) True, True, False, False
(b) False, True, True, False
(c) True, False, False, True
(d) True, True, True, False
Answer: (a) True, True, False, False
249. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) Maurya had seen many deaths in her family before Bartley.
(ii) The priest had assured Maurya that Bartley would return safely.
(iii) The coffin for Bartley was made of old wood.
(iv) The keening at the end of the play symbolizes finality.
(a) True, True, False, True
(b) False, True, True, False
(c) True, False, True, True
(d) True, True, True, True
Answer: (a) True, True, False, True
250. Identify the correctness of the following statements.
(i) Maurya drops Michael’s clothes over Bartley’s body.
(ii) The play highlights the struggles of women in a patriarchal society.
(iii) The play’s title reflects the constant loss of men to the sea.
(iv) The play suggests that fate is avoidable through prayers.
(a) True, True, True, False
(b) False, False, True, True
(c) True, True, False, True
(d) True, False, True, False
Answer: (a) True, True, True, False
“Riders to the Sea” – WB HS 3rd Semester MCQ Question Answer
- Riders to the Sea Summary in Bengali
- Riders to the Sea HS 3rd Semester Notes
- Riders to the Sea by J.M. Synge for Class 12
- WBCHSE English 3rd Semester Riders to the Sea
- Riders to the Sea Short Questions and Answers
- HS English 3rd Sem Riders to the Sea MCQ
- Riders to the Sea Bengali Explanation
- Class 12 English 3rd Semester Riders to the Sea PDF
“Riders to the Sea” is not just a story of a mother and her sons — it’s a powerful reflection of rural life, struggle against nature, and human endurance.
HS পরীক্ষার 3rd সেমিস্টারে এই নাটকটি থেকে MCQ ও ছোট প্রশ্ন খুব গুরুত্বপূর্ণ, কারণ প্রশ্নগুলো সাধারণত চরিত্র, থিম, এবং প্লট ঘিরেই আসে। উপরের নোটগুলি ভালো করে পড়লে এবং প্র্যাকটিস করলে, অবশ্যই পরীক্ষাতে খুব ভালো ফল করতে পারবে।
আমাদের হোয়াটসঅ্যাপ ও টেলিগ্রাম Study গ্রুপে যুক্ত হোন -
