Class 11 English - MP
Supplementary: The Tale of Melon City
Supplementary: The Tale of Melon City is a satirical poem by Vikram Seth from the Class 11 MPBSE English textbook (Hornbill). It tells the story of a peaceful, just, and foolish king who orders the construction of an arch that hits his crown off. What follows is a hilarious chain of absurd events involving the executioners, the architect, the masons, and the wise old man, culminating in the election of a melon as the new king. The chapter is important for board exams as it tests critical thinking, irony, and comprehension skills through short and long answer questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Satire and Irony
The poem uses sharp humor and irony to mock governance, blind adherence to rules, and the absurdity of political systems.
The Just and Placid King
The initial description of the king highlights how extreme peace and compliance can sometimes mask a lack of true intelligence or practical wisdom.
The Chain of Blame
A humorous sequence where responsibility for the arch striking the king's head is passed from the king to the builders, masons, architect, and finally the people.
The Wise Old Man
The oldest and most decrepit man in the kingdom whose nonsensical advice is blindly followed, leading directly to the absurd execution of the king.
Election of the Melon
According to the kingdom's custom that the next person to pass the city gate would choose the king, an idiot who only answers 'A melon' picks the fruit, establishing a melon as the ruler.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Madhya Pradesh (MPBSE) Class 11 English board pattern, this supplementary chapter typically carries around 3 to 5 marks. Questions are usually short answer types (30-40 words) focusing on the summary, the character of the king, or the satirical elements, and occasionally long-answer questions about the poem's underlying political message.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the phrase 'The Melon City' signify?
It signifies a state ruled by a melon, highlighting the absurdity, foolishness, and lack of common sense in the governance of that state.
Why was the king hanged in the end?
Due to a ridiculous chain of logic initiated by a wise old man, the noose had to fit someone, and since the king was the tallest person who fit the noose, he was executed by his own decree.
What message does Vikram Seth convey through this poem?
The poet criticizes foolish governance, blind submission to bureaucratic rules, and shows how citizens often get the kind of leaders they deserve.
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