NCERT Solutions
for Class 12 English Flamingo

Chapter 3 A Thing of Beauty by John Keats

Updated
Syllabus for 2024-2025 Exams 

Q.1 List the things of beauty mentioned in
the poem.

Answer:
The things of beauty mentioned in the poem include:

• The sun and the moon
• Old and young trees that provide
  shade
• Daffodils and the green world they
  live in
• Clear streams that provide a
  cooling cover during the hot season
• The thick mass of ferns in the
  forest
• The musk-rose blooms in the forest
• The grandeur associated with the
  heroic deeds of the “mighty dead”
• Lovely tales that we have heard or
  read

Q.2 List the things that cause suffering
and pain.

Answer:
The things that cause suffering and pain mentioned in the poem include:

• Despondence (dejection or
  hopelessness)
• The lack of noble qualities in
  human nature
• Gloomy days filled with sadness
• The unhealthy and dark paths
  created by human struggles

Q.3 What does the line, ‘Therefore are we
wreathing a flowery band to bind us to earth’ suggest to you?

Answer:
The line suggests that despite the hardships, sorrows, and struggles of life,
the beauty of nature acts as a binding force that connects us to life. It
implies that humans find comfort and joy in the beauty of the world, and it
keeps them attached to the Earth, providing hope and respite from their
troubles. The “flowery band” symbolizes the connection between human
beings and the beautiful things around them that make life worth living.

Q.4 What makes human beings love life in
spite of troubles and sufferings?

Answer:
Human beings love life in spite of troubles and sufferings because of the
beauty present in the world. The presence of beautiful things—whether it is
nature, art, or heroic deeds—helps to lift the “pall” from their dark
spirits and provides them with joy, comfort, and a reason to continue. Beauty
has a healing and rejuvenating effect on humans, making life more bearable even
in difficult times.

Q.5 Why is ‘grandeur’ associated with the
‘mighty dead’?

Answer:
‘Grandeur’ is associated with the ‘mighty dead’ because the poet refers to the
great and noble deeds performed by individuals who have passed away. These
“mighty dead” are remembered for their heroic actions, which continue
to inspire people and are considered beautiful and grand. Their legacies have a
lasting impact, and the tales of their greatness add to the endless source of
beauty that enriches human life.

Q.6 Do we experience things of beauty only
for short moments or do they make a lasting impression on us?

Answer:
According to the poem, things of beauty make a lasting impression on us. The
poet states that a “thing of beauty is a joy forever,” meaning that
the beauty we experience continues to give us pleasure and comfort long after
the initial moment has passed. Beautiful things do not fade away into
nothingness but rather leave an enduring mark on our spirits, offering solace
and inspiration throughout our lives.

Q.7 What image does the poet use to
describe the beautiful bounty of the earth?

Answer:
The poet uses the image of “an endless fountain of immortal drink, pouring
unto us from the heaven’s brink” to describe the beautiful bounty of the
earth. This metaphor suggests that the beauty of the earth is like a
never-ending source of life-giving water that flows from heaven, nourishing the
human soul and providing constant refreshment and joy. It highlights the idea
that beauty is eternal and limitless, always available to those who seek it.