- Nicola: The elder brother, aged thirteen, who displays maturity beyond his years. He is determined, hardworking, and responsible, with a protective nature towards his younger brother, Jacopo.
- Jacopo: The younger brother, nearly twelve, who exhibits a lively spirit and innocence, contrasting with Nicola’s seriousness. He looks up to Nicola and shares in their efforts to care for their sister.
- Lucia: The sister of Nicola and Jacopo, who has been suffering from tuberculosis of the spine after the war. Despite her health struggles, she represents hope and the bond of family.
- The Narrator/Visitor: A traveller who becomes acquainted with the brothers and observes their lives, reflecting on their noble qualities and resilience in the face of adversity.
Major Themes
- Selflessness and Sacrifice: The boys’ dedication to their sister’s well-being is a central theme. They work tirelessly to provide for her care, showcasing a deep sense of responsibility and love.
- The Impact of War: The story addresses the harsh realities of war, particularly how it has transformed the lives of the brothers and their sister, forcing them into adulthood and hardship at a young age.
- Struggle and Resilience: The narrative emphasizes the strength of the human spirit. Despite their tragic circumstances, Nicola and Jacopo maintain their dignity and purpose, illustrating the resilience that can arise in difficult times.
- Brotherhood and Family Bonds: The relationship between the brothers, as well as their commitment to Lucia, highlights the importance of familial bonds and mutual support in overcoming challenges.
Key Concepts
- Honour and Nobility: The story redefines what it means to be a “gentleman” by illustrating how honour and courage are embodied in Nicola and Jacopo’s actions of caring for their sister, rather than their physical appearance or societal status.
- Childhood vs. Maturity: There is a poignant contrast between the boys’ youthful innocence and the responsibilities thrust upon them by their circumstances. Their actions challenge the notion that maturity is exclusively tied to age.
- The Role of Society: The narrative reflects on societal dynamics during and after the war, including economic struggles and the impact of conflict on family structures, demonstrating how external forces shape individual lives.
- Compassion and Empathy: The visitors’ interactions with the boys reveal a deeper understanding of their plight and the broader human experience, emphasizing the importance of compassion in times of crisis.
II.Answer the following questions in one or two sentences each. (2 Mark Questions)
- What fruit did Nicola and Jacopo sell when the narrator first met them?
Answer: They were selling wild strawberries.
- How old is Nicola?
Answer: Nicola is thirteen years old.
- What job did the boys do in addition to selling fruit?
Answer: They shined shoes in the public square.
- Where did the boys take the narrator during their tour?
Answer: They took the narrator to Juliet’s tomb and other places of interest.
- What was the condition of the boys’ clothing when they first met the narrator?
Answer: Their clothing was shabby and worn.
- What type of work did Nicola and Jacopo do to earn money?
Answer: They ran errands, sold newspapers, hawked items, and conducted tours.
- How did the boys spend their evenings after selling newspapers?
Answer: They were often seen resting on the pavement late at night.
- What was the name of the sister the boys cared for?
Answer: Their sister’s name is Lucia.
- What was the reason for Lucia’s hospitalization?
Answer: Lucia was suffering from tuberculosis of the spine.
- Who was the narrator’s car driver during the trip?
Answer: The narrator’s car driver was named Luigi.
- Why do you think Nicola was annoyed with Jacopo when he suggested using the car?
Answer: Nicola wanted to avoid troubling the narrator and was protective of their independence.
- How do Nicola and Jacopo’s actions demonstrate the theme of responsibility?
Answer: Their commitment to working hard and caring for their sister shows their sense of duty and maturity.
- What can we infer about the boys’ background based on their behaviour and living conditions?
Answer: The boys likely came from a once comfortable home but were forced to adapt to a life of hardship due to the war.
- What lesson do you think the narrator learned from observing Nicola and Jacopo?
Answer: The narrator learned about the strength of family bonds and the nobility of
selflessness amidst adversity.
- How does the author portray the boys as gentlemen despite their economic struggles?
Answer: The author highlights their dignity, work ethic, and care for their sister rather than their appearances or wealth.
- Why do you think the nurse was so appreciative of what the boys did for their sister?
Answer: The nurse recognized their love and devotion, which showed their strong
character and commitment to family.
- In what ways did the war affect the boys, both negatively and positively?
Answer: Negatively, the war caused them to lose their home and forced them into difficult situations; positively, it made them strong and responsible.
- How do the boys’ experiences during the war shape their attitude toward life and work?
Answer: Their hardships made them hardworking and determined, showing that they value every opportunity to support their family.
II.Answer the following questions in about 60 words each.(3 Marks Questions)
- What fruit did Nicola and Jacopo sell when the narrator first met them?
Answer: They were selling wild strawberries. The boys had baskets full of these small, sweet fruits and were eager to share them with anyone passing by. Their enthusiasm for selling strawberries highlighted their playful spirit amid hard work.
- What job did the boys do in addition to selling fruit?
Answer: Besides selling fruit, the boys also shined shoes in the public square. This job helped them earn more money and showed their willingness to work hard, contributing to their efforts in supporting their family during tough times.
- Where did the boys take the narrator during their tour?
Answer: The boys took the narrator to several interesting places, including Juliet’s tomb. They excitedly guided him around the city, sharing stories and facts, which enriched the narrator’s understanding of their hometown and its history.
- What was the condition of Nicola and Jacopo when they first met the narrator? Answer: Nicola and Jacopo wore shabby and worn clothing when the narrator first met
them. Their old and patched clothes reflected their tough life. Despite their appearance, their cheerful attitude and friendly nature stood out.
- What type of work did Nicola and Jacopo do to earn money?
Answer: Nicola and Jacopo earned money by running errands, selling newspapers, and hawking goods. They also conducted tours for visitors, showcasing their resourcefulness and dedication to supporting their family.
- How did the boys spend their evenings after selling newspapers?
Answer: After selling newspapers, the boys spent their evenings resting on the pavement late at night. They often chatted with each other, reflecting on their day and dreaming about a better future, even when they were tired.
- What was the name of the sister the boys cared for?
Answer: The name of the boys’ sister is Lucia. Nicola and Jacopo cared for her deeply, managing their work to ensure she had everything she needed while facing her health struggles with love and support.
- Why do you think Nicola was annoyed with Jacopo when he suggested using the car?
Answer: Nicola was annoyed because he valued their independence and didn’t want to
trouble the narrator for a ride. He wanted to maintain their self-sufficiency and prove they could manage on their own, reflecting his maturity.
- How do Nicola and Jacopo’s actions demonstrate the theme of responsibility?
Answer: Their commitment to caring for Lucia and working hard shows a strong sense
of responsibility. They prioritize their sister’s wellbeing over their own desires, highlighting their maturity and dedication to family, key themes in the story.
- What can we infer about the boys’ background based on their behaviour and living conditions?
Answer: Based on their behaviour and living conditions, we can infer that the boys faced challenges due to their family’s difficulties, likely caused by war. They adapted well, demonstrating resilience and strength while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy.
- What lesson do you think the narrator learned from observing Nicola and Jacopo?
Answer: The narrator learned about the importance of family bonds, sacrifice, and
perseverance. Observing the boys’ dedication to each other and their sister taught him valuable lessons about love, care, and the strength required to face life’s challenges.
- How does the author portray the boys as gentlemen despite their economic struggles?
Answer: The author portrays Nicola and Jacopo as gentlemen through their respectful behaviour, dignity, and hard work. Despite wearing shabby clothes, their kindness and determination to help their sister shine through, reflecting true character beyond appearances.
(FROM QUESTION BANK)
- Where did the author meet the two boys?
Answer: The author met the two boys in a public square.
- Who tries to stop the author from buying fruits from the boys?
Answer: The driver tries to stop the author from buying fruit from the boys.
- What did the driver talk about the fruits?
Answer: The driver mentioned that the fruits might be bad or of poor quality.
- What did the narrator buy from the boys?
Answer: The narrator bought wild strawberries from the boys.
- Who was younger between Nicola and Jacopo?
- Nicola B. Jacopo C. Both are the same age
Answer: B. Jacopo was younger than Nicola.
- Who was elder between Nicola and Jacopo?
- Nicola B. Jacopo C. They are the same age
Answer: A. Nicola was elder than Jacopo.
- What were the boys doing in the public square?
Answer: The boys were selling wild strawberries in the public square.
- What was one of the jobs done by the two boys to earn money?
Answer: One of the jobs done by the boys to earn money was shining shoes.
- How old was Jacopo?
Answer: Jacopo was about ten years old.
- How old was Nicola?
Answer: Nicola was thirteen years old.
- The narrator observed that the two boys spent_______
- very little money on their food and clothing
- more money on their food and clothing
- little time to earn money
Answer: A. very little money on their food and clothing.
- The narrator was very much impressed by the boys’ personalities because___
- hey were great actors
- despite their age, they behaved like true gentlemen
- they were not successful
Answer: B. despite their age, they behaved like true gentlemen.
- What favor did Jacopo ask the narrator?
Answer: Jacopo asked the narrator to drive them to Poleta.
- Why were the two boys visiting Poleta on every Sunday?
Answer: The two boys visited Poleta every Sunday to see their sick sister, Lucia.
- What was Lucia suffering from?
Answer: Lucia was suffering from tuberculosis.
- Mention one of the ways the boys helped the resistance movement.
Answer: The boys helped the resistance movement by delivering messages and running errands for them.
- How long did the German Elite Guards rule over Verona?
Answer: The German Elite Guards ruled over Verona for three years.
- Where are Romeo and Juliet reputed to have lived in?
Answer: Romeo and Juliet are reputed to have lived in Verona.
- How old was Lucia?
Answer: Lucia was about twelve years old.
- Whose tomb did Nicola offer to take the narrator to?
Answer: Nicola offered to take the narrator to Juliet’s tomb.
- Name the village where Lucia was being treated.
Answer: Lucia was being treated in the village of Poleta.
- How would the boys usually go to Poleta?
Answer: The boys usually walked to Poleta.
- Where did Nicola and Jacopo’s father work as a singer?
Answer: Nicola and Jacopo’s father worked as a singer in a cafe.
- How far was Poleta from Verona?
Answer: Poleta was about thirty kilometers from Verona.
III. Answer the following questions in about 100 words each (4 Marks)
- What qualities of the boys impressed the narrator?
Answer: The narrator was deeply impressed by Nicola and Jacopo’s maturity, dedication, and selflessness. They worked hard to earn money for their sick sister, Lucia, which showed their love and responsibility. Instead of playing and enjoying their childhood, they hustled by selling strawberries and shining shoes. Their positive attitude and determination, despite the difficult circumstances of war, made them stand out. The narrator admired how they behaved like true gentlemen, displaying kindness and compassion, and this inspired him to reflect on their extraordinary character, which was rare for boys their age.
- What were the different jobs that the two boys did to earn money?
Answer: Nicola and Jacopo took on various jobs to earn money for their sister, Lucia. They sold wild strawberries in the public square, which was their main source of income. In addition, they shined shoes for passersby, demonstrating their willingness to work hard. They also did little jobs for people in the neighborhood and helped deliver messages for the resistance movement. All their efforts showed their responsibility and commitment to supporting their family during tough times. By taking on these different jobs, they exemplified maturity far beyond their young ages of ten and thirteen.
- Describe the boys’ sacrifice to save their sister, Lucia.
Answer: Nicola and Jacopo made great sacrifices to help their sister Lucia, who was suffering from tuberculosis. They worked tirelessly, taking on various jobs, and spent almost all their earnings on her medical treatment. Instead of spending money on themselves or having fun, they saved every penny for her care. This dedication highlighted their selflessness and strong bond as brothers. They even walked long distances to visit Lucia in the hospital, prioritizing her health above everything else. Their sacrifices demonstrated their profound love and devotion, making them true heroes in the eyes of the narrator.
- How did the two boys help the narrator during his stay at Verona?
Answer: During the narrator’s stay in Verona, Nicola and Jacopo helped him by being friendly and informative. They guided him to buy wild strawberries and other local goods, sharing their experiences along the way. The boys also shared their story about caring for their sick sister, Lucia, which deeply moved the narrator. Their kindness and respect left a big impression on him. By showing the narrator their world and the challenges they faced, the boys made his visit meaningful. Their cheerful spirit and positive attitude turned what could have been a typical visit into an inspiring journey.
- How had the war affected the boys in ‘The Two Gentlemen of Verona’?
Answer: The war had a significant impact on Nicola and Jacopo, forcing them to grow up quickly. They lost their father, which left them alone to care for their sick sister, Lucia. The conflict stripped away their childhood innocence, making them responsible for their family’s well-being. Because of the difficult circumstances, they had to work hard at various jobs instead of going to school or playing. The harsh realities of war also made them more mature and resilient, instilling values of sacrifice and devotion. They became heroes in their own right, embodying bravery during challenging times.
- Examine the statement: ‘Yet this silent epic of youthful devotion had touched me deeply.’
Answer: This statement reflects the narrator’s profound admiration for Nicola and Jacopo. Their silent devotion and sacrifices for their sister Lucia created a powerful story of love and commitment. The narrator saw how these young boys embraced adult responsibilities despite their young ages. Their tireless efforts to support their sister during the war highlighted the beauty of selflessness. This experience taught the narrator important lessons about courage and family. Their actions moved him emotionally, showing that acts of love can leave a lasting impact, inspiring him to appreciate the nobility of human spirit and childhood sacrifice.
- Why does the author feel that the two boys brought new nobility to mankind? Answer: The author believes that Nicola and Jacopo brought new nobility to mankind
because their selfless actions demonstrate true character. During difficult times, these boys chose to care for their sick sister, Lucia, prioritizing her needs over their own wishes. Their determination to work hard and face life’s challenges at such a young age showcased their admirable qualities, showing that nobility isn’t just about wealth or status but is based on love, sacrifice, and kindness. These brave acts inspired others and showed that even in dire situations, human compassion and devotion can shine brightly, uplift spirits, and create hope.
- Why was the narrator silent during the return journey? Explain.
Answer: The narrator was silent during the return journey because he was overwhelmed with emotions. As he reflected on the story of Nicola and Jacopo, their dedication to their sick sister, Lucia, deeply touched him. He was impressed by their maturity and selflessness, especially considering the hardships they faced due to the war. The realization of their sacrifices made him feel a mix of admiration and sadness. This emotional weight left him in thoughtful silence, contemplating the harsh realities of life that these young boys faced. Their bravery and commitment were reminders of the strength of the human spirit.