Class 10 English - MAHARASHTRA
Prose: Three Questions
Prose: 'Three Questions' by Leo Tolstoy is a profound short story included in the Class 10 Maharashtra (Kumarbharati) English syllabus. It revolves around a king who seeks answers to three crucial questions: the right time to begin every action, the right people to listen to, and the most important thing to do. Through a series of encounters with a wise hermit and a wounded enemy, the king learns that the most important time is 'now', the most important person is the one you are with, and the most important business is to do good. For board exams, this chapter is vital for testing comprehension, character analysis, and value-based writing.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
The Three Questions
The core dilemma of the king: when is the right time for every action, who are the essential people, and what is the most important task?
The Hermit's Wisdom
A wise ascetic who teaches the king practical life lessons through physical labor and mindfulness rather than direct verbal answers.
The Wounded Bearded Man
An enemy of the king who comes seeking revenge but is saved and forgiven by the king, leading to a profound transformation and peace.
Present Moment Awareness
The realization that the 'present' is the only time over which we have any power, making 'now' the most important time.
Altruism and Compassion
The moral takeaway that the highest purpose of human life is to do good to others, especially those in need.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Maharashtra (Kumarbharati) Class 10 English Board Exam, prose passages from 'Three Questions' typically carry around 10 to 12 marks. Questions commonly include textual comprehension, complex factual queries, vocabulary in context, personal response questions based on the moral of the story, and grammar exercises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the three questions asked by the king?
The king wanted to know the right time for every action, the necessary people to listen to, and the most important occupation.
Why did the king go to visit the hermit?
The king went to the hermit because he was renowned for his wisdom and could provide answers to the three questions that the learned men of the court failed to answer.
What is the central message of the story 'Three Questions'?
The central message is mindfulness and service: live in the present moment, cherish the person you are with, and make doing good to others your primary goal.
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