IGNOU MEG 1 Solved Question Paper | June 2022 | British Poetry
- Last Updated On August 11, 2025
Table of Contents
Welcome to our blog, In this post, we’re sharing the IGNOU MEG 1 Solved Question Paper of June 2022 examination, focusing on British Poetry.
This guide is here to help you prepare for your exams with clear answers and explanations. Whether you’re just starting or revising for your exams, this resource will make studying easier and more effective. Let’s dive in and get ready to ace your IGNOU MEG 1 exam.
In this post, we’ll discuss all the answers including the short and long answer questions. In IGNOU MEG 1 Examination there are total 8 questions out of which students will have to answer 5 questions. Answering question number 1 is compulsory for all the students as it contains the short answer questions.
Its important to note that student’s must use these answers as a guidance or reference that will help them increase their knowledge and answer writing skills.
So whether you are a student of IGNOU MEG 1 looking to ace your examination or a learner willing to increase your knowledge, this blog post will help you in all the ways possible.
Question 1
This question is divided in 4 sub-questions ( a, b, c, d ). Students will have to attempt any 2
1) A ) Had we but world enough, and time,
This coyness, Lady were no crime.
We would sit down, and think which way
To walk, and pass our long Love’s Day.
Answer –
In Andrew Marvell’s “To His Coy Mistress,” the lines “Had we but world enough, and time, / This coyness, Lady were no crime. / We would sit down, and think which way / To walk, and pass our long Love’s Day” introduce the poem’s central argument about time and love.
Theme of Time and Eternity: These lines imagine an ideal world where time is infinite, allowing the speaker and his lover to enjoy a leisurely courtship. The speaker suggests that if there were no time constraints, the lady’s “coyness” or reluctance would be inconsequential. He implies that their romance could be slow and thoughtful, emphasizing that in a timeless realm, her hesitation would not be a problem.
Imaginary Leisurely Romance: The imagery of “sit down, and think which way / To walk” suggests a contemplative and unhurried approach to their love. The speaker envisions spending an eternity exploring and enjoying their relationship without the pressure of time. This idealization contrasts sharply with the reality he acknowledges later in the poem.
Contrast with Reality: The poem later shifts to highlight the urgency imposed by real time. The speaker introduces the concept of “Time’s wingèd chariot hurrying near,” emphasizing that their time together is limited. This transition from an idealized, timeless romance to the reality of time constraints underscores the poem’s call to seize the moment.
Imagery and Tone: The imagery of “the Indian Ganges” and “the tide of Humber” evokes a sense of timelessness, enhancing the romantic tone of these lines. This contrasts with the more urgent tone in the rest of the poem, which advocates for embracing love despite life’s fleeting nature.
Overall, these lines effectively set up the poem’s argument for seizing the present moment by contrasting an idealized, timeless romance with the inevitable passage of time.
B) Yet once more, O ye Laurels, and once more,
Ye Myrtles brown, with Ivy never sere,
I come to pluck your Berries harsh and crude,
And with forc’d fingers rude,
Shatter your leaves before the mellowing year.
Answer – In John Milton’s “Lycidas,” the lines “Yet once more, O ye Laurels, and once more, / Ye Myrtles brown, with Ivy never sere, / I come to pluck your Berries harsh and crude, / And with forc’d fingers rude, / Shatter your leaves before the mellowing year” express profound mourning for the deceased Lycidas.
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C) In Xanadu did Kubla Khan
A stately pleasure dome decree :
Where Alph, the sacred river, ran
Through caverns measureless to man
Down to a sunless sea.
Answer –
The lines “In Xanadu did Kubla Khan / A stately pleasure dome decree: / Where Alph, the sacred river, ran / Through caverns measureless to man / Down to a sunless sea” from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s “Kubla Khan” introduce a fantastical realm of opulence and mystery.
Setting and Creation: The poem begins with Kubla Khan, the Mongol emperor, constructing a magnificent pleasure-dome in Xanadu. This “stately pleasure-dome” symbolizes both grandeur and excess, reflecting the emperor’s power and indulgence.
Imagery of the Sacred River: The “Alph, the sacred river,” runs through vast, unfathomable caverns and eventually reaches a “sunless sea.” This imagery evokes a sense of the river’s mystical and ancient qualities, contributing to the poem’s supernatural atmosphere.
Vivid Descriptions and Contrast: The pleasure-dome’s lush surroundings, with “sinuous rills” and “incense-bearing trees,” create a vivid and sensory-rich scene. This opulence contrasts with the later depiction of a “savage place,” highlighting a tension between beauty and terror within Xanadu.
Mystical and Prophetic Elements: The poem also features a “mighty fountain” in a deep chasm, symbolizing nature’s raw power. The mention of “ancestral voices prophesying war” introduces an ominous tone, suggesting that beneath the surface grandeur lies a sense of impending conflict and historical forces.
Symbolism and Theme: The juxtaposition of a “sunny pleasure-dome with caves of ice” reflects the poem’s exploration of paradoxes—warmth versus cold, light versus darkness. This complexity underscores the fleeting nature of human achievements.
Poetic Vision: The speaker’s vision of recreating the pleasure-dome in the imagination, through the singing of a damsel and the invocation of mystical imagery, highlights the power of artistic inspiration to transcend reality.
Overall, these lines set the stage for a richly imaginative exploration of power, creativity, and the sublime, contrasting grandeur with darker, chaotic elements.
D) That is no country for old men.
The young
In one another’s arms, birds in the trees
— Those dying generations — at their song,
The salmon-falls, the mackerel-crowded seas.
Answer –
The lines “That is no country for old men. / The young / In one another’s arms, birds in the trees / — Those dying generations — at / their song, / The salmon-falls, the mackerel-crowded / seas” from William Butler Yeats’s “Sailing to Byzantium” highlight the contrast between the vitality of youth and the decline of old age.
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Question 2
2. What do you understand by the term Metaphysical Poetry ? Give the characteristics of metaphysical poetry.
Answer –
To determine which of John Milton’s poems, “L’Allegro” or “Il Penseroso”, more accurately represents his personal views, it’s crucial to examine the thematic focus and philosophical perspectives presented in each work, as well as how they reflect Milton’s broader intellectual and spiritual concerns.
“L’Allegro” is a celebration of joy and vivacity. It portrays a life filled with laughter, music, and the pleasures of nature. The poem presents an idealized vision of happiness, featuring scenes of rural festivities, pastoral landscapes, and a life enriched by mirth and revelry. The speaker invites the goddess Mirth and personifications of joy to guide him, embracing a carefree and exuberant existence. This depiction highlights the vibrant and celebratory aspects of human experience, reflecting a preference for the sensory and joyous facets of life.
In stark contrast, “Il Penseroso” explores a more contemplative and introspective outlook. It values solitude, reflection, and intellectual pursuit. The poem invokes Melancholy and portrays a life dedicated to quiet meditation, philosophical inquiry, and the pursuit of wisdom. It depicts a retreat from worldly pleasures in favor of a more solitary and thoughtful existence. This approach underscores a deep engagement with themes of introspection, knowledge, and the complexities of human nature.
Milton’s broader body of work and personal life suggest that “Il Penseroso” aligns more closely with his own views. Milton’s major works, including “Paradise Lost”, reveal a profound engagement with theological, philosophical, and moral questions. His writings often grapple with themes of human existence, virtue, and divine justice, reflecting a serious and contemplative disposition. Additionally, Milton’s life was marked by intense study, political activism, and personal loss, indicating a predilection for reflective and philosophical pursuits.
While “L’Allegro” offers a joyous portrayal of life, it is “Il Penseroso” that resonates more deeply with Milton’s intellectual and spiritual inclinations. The latter’s focus on melancholy, wisdom, and the search for meaning beyond immediate pleasures reflects the poet’s deeper engagement with philosophical and theological questions. This contemplative approach is more representative of Milton’s personal beliefs and the overarching themes in his major works.
In conclusion, “Il Penseroso” more accurately represents Milton’s personal views, given its alignment with his broader philosophical and intellectual concerns. The poem’s emphasis on contemplation and introspection mirrors the serious and reflective nature of Milton’s other writings and his life experiences.
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Question 3
3. Which of these two poems — ‘‘L’Allegro’’ and ‘‘Il Penseroso’’, in your opinion represents Milton’s own views more accurately ?
Answer –
John Milton’s poem “L’Allegro” and “Il Penseroso” present contrasting perspectives on life. “L’Allegro” celebrates a joyful, lively approach to life, while “Il Penseroso” reflects a more contemplative and introspective outlook. Determining which poem represents Milton’s views more accurately is challenging, as both capture different facets of human experience. However, “Il Penseroso” likely aligns more closely with Milton’s own views, especially when considering his life, personality, and literary works.
Milton was known for his deeply reflective nature and his profound engagement with serious, often philosophical themes. “Il Penseroso” embodies these qualities through its celebration of solitude, meditation, and scholarly pursuits. The poem’s tone is contemplative, valuing the quiet and reflective life over the pleasures and distractions of the world. The speaker finds solace in the night, in the silence that allows for deep thought, and in the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. These themes resonate with Milton’s own life, which was marked by intense study, serious intellectual pursuits, and a strong moral and religious conviction.
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Question 4
4. Who were the pre-Raphaelites ? Examine the works of any one pre-Raphaelite poet.
Answer –
The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood (P.R.B.), founded in 1848, was a group of English artists and writers committed to reviving earlier art forms with a focus on detail, realism, and emotional depth. The original members included Dante Gabriel Rossetti, John Everett Millais, William Holman Hunt, Thomas Woolner, William Michael Rossetti, and Frederic Stephens. They rejected the formulaic techniques of academic art, favoring intricate details, vibrant colors, and medieval and mythological themes. Symbolism was a key feature, used to convey deeper meanings in their works.
Dante Gabriel Rossetti, a central figure in the movement, contributed significantly to both poetry and painting. His early poems, such as “The Blessed Damozel” and “My Sister’s Sleep,” showcase his engagement with themes of love, death, and spirituality. “The Blessed Damozel” explores the separation and reunion of lovers through death, employing rich, evocative imagery to create a dreamlike atmosphere. “My Sister’s Sleep” reflects on death and grief, portraying a sense of melancholy through the image of a sleeping sister, emphasizing enduring loss.
Rossetti’s influence on the Pre-Raphaelite movement is evident in his use of idealized, stylized female figures and his focus on emotional and spiritual depth. His allegorical prose tale, “Hand and Soul,” reflects his artistic philosophy, suggesting that true art must capture the essence of the soul rather than mere appearances. This narrative aligns with Rossetti’s belief in the importance of spiritual depth in art.
In his later works, Rossetti’s poetry became more introspective. His sonnet sequence, “The House of Life,” explores themes of love, art, and the passage of time. This collection is notable for its rich imagery and passionate expression, reflecting Rossetti’s mature concerns with the nature of artistic creation and the impact of love on the human soul.
Rossetti’s contributions significantly shaped the Pre-Raphaelite movement and influenced both his contemporaries and later generations. His vivid imagery, symbolic themes, and exploration of intense emotions are central to Victorian art and poetry, leaving a lasting impact. Rossetti’s work exemplifies the Pre-Raphaelite commitment to blending art and literature with a focus on emotional and spiritual resonance.
Question 5
5. How are magic and symbolism related/connected in W.B. Yeats’ poetry ?
Answer –
William Butler Yeats’ poetry intricately weaves magic and symbolism to explore themes of spirituality, mysticism, and the human condition. These elements are deeply interrelated, shaping both the content and form of his work.
Magic in Yeats’ Poetry
Yeats’ fascination with the occult and mysticism profoundly influences his poetry. He views magic as a means to access a deeper, hidden reality beyond the material world. This is evident in his frequent use of rituals and ancient symbols, which convey spiritual truths. For instance, in “A Dialogue of Self and Soul,” the dialogue itself serves as a ritualistic exploration of the self and soul, reflecting his belief in a mystical realm.
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Question 6
6. Examine the use of myth and symbolism in T.S. Eliot’s ‘‘The Waste Land’’.
Answer –
T.S. Eliot’s “The Waste Land” is celebrated for its complex use of myth and symbolism, which deepen the poem’s thematic exploration.
Myth in “The Waste Land”
Eliot employs myth as a framework to unify and deepen the poem. Central is the Fisher King myth, symbolizing a wounded king whose land is barren. This myth reflects themes of spiritual desolation and the need for redemption, representing both physical and spiritual infertility.
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Question 7
This question is divided in 4 questions ( a, b, c, d ). Students will have to attempt any 1
7) Attempt a critical appreciation of any one poem :
(a) ‘‘At Grass’’
(b) ‘‘And Death Shall Have No Dominion’’
(c) ‘‘Lapis Lazuli’’
(d) ‘‘Goblin Market’’
Answer –
a) Critical Appreciation of “At Grass” by Philip Larkin
Philip Larkin’s “At Grass” provides a reflective exploration of obsolescence and the passage of time through the lives of retired racehorses. The poem’s thematic depth, structure, and imagery highlight the fleeting nature of fame and the inevitability of aging.
Theme and Subject Matter
The central theme of “At Grass” is the transition from prominence to obscurity. Larkin contrasts the horses’ past glory on the racetrack with their current, tranquil retirement. This shift from acclaim to anonymity mirrors broader human experiences of aging and the decline of former achievements. The poem reflects a melancholic acceptance of change, emphasizing how time eventually diminishes all forms of recognition and success.
Structure and Form
Structured in six quatrains with a regular ABAB rhyme scheme, the poem’s form contrasts with the theme of decay. The consistent structure highlights the inevitable shift from the structured world of racing to the unstructured, serene existence of retirement. This formal regularity serves to underscore the inevitability of the horses’ transition from active life to a more subdued state.
Imagery and Language
Larkin employs vivid imagery to depict the contrast between the horses’ past and present. The “cold shade” of their retirement contrasts sharply with the vibrant scenes of their racing days, described with phrases like “Silks at the start” and “the long cry.” These images effectively illustrate the shift from public adulation to quiet obscurity, reinforcing the theme of impermanence and the natural progression of life.
Tone and Mood
The tone of “At Grass” is melancholic yet contemplative. Larkin portrays the retired horses with a sense of resignation, capturing their transition from a world of excitement to one of peaceful anonymity. The mood of the poem reflects on the inevitability of aging and the transient nature of fame, presenting a contemplative view of the end of an era.
Symbolism
The retired racehorses symbolize the broader human experience of aging and the loss of former glory. Their journey from the racetrack to the meadow serves as a metaphor for the universal process of growing old and being forgotten. This symbolism underscores the poem’s reflection on the impermanence of achievements and the passage of time.
In summary, “At Grass” by Philip Larkin uses its structure, imagery, and tone to explore themes of obsolescence and the fleeting nature of fame. The poem captures the transition from prominence to obscurity, offering a contemplative view on the inevitable decline of once-celebrated achievements and the universal experience of aging.
Question 8
8) Comment on Yeats’ use of the theatrical metaphor in his poetry.
Answer –
W.B. Yeats frequently employs theatrical metaphors in his poetry to explore themes of identity, drama, and the intersection of reality and imagination. This metaphorical framework allows Yeats to delve into complex ideas about the self, society, and art.
The Self as Actor
Yeats often depicts the self as an actor on a stage, highlighting the performative nature of identity. In poems like “The Actor and the Audience” and “The Cloths of Heaven,” he explores life as a stage where individuals play roles, emphasizing the constructed nature of identity. This metaphor suggests that personal and artistic expression is akin to performance. Yeats also reflects on the roles and masks people wear, as seen in “The Mask,” where he uses the metaphor of wearing a mask to explore the self’s fluidity and multiplicity.
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