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NCERT Solutions For Class 11 English Snapshots The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse
By Swati Singh
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Updated on 13 Jun 2025, 17:17 IST
NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English Supplementary Book Snapshots Chapter 1, 'The Summer of The Beautiful White Horse,' is available in PDF format here. To perform well in English, students should thoroughly answer all the questions in this chapter. The NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English, developed by a team of expert educators, are designed to help students make the most of their potential and succeed in their exams. The primary goal of our experts is to provide clear and simple answers that are easy for students to understand.
These NCERT Solutions for Chapter 1 of Snapshots are available on IL website in PDF form, with well-structured answers created by experienced faculty. Following the CBSE syllabus, students can use this resource as a helpful study guide to achieve good marks in their Class 11 exams. Regular practice with these solutions will enable students to perform excellently in their exams.
NCERT Solutions of Class 11 English Snapshots Chapter 1 Summary
The story “The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse” by William Saroyan is a heartwarming tale that revolves around the bond between two young cousins, Aram and Mourad. Set in a rural town, the story captures the innocence of childhood and explores themes like trust, friendship, and the idea of right and wrong.
Aram, the narrator, is a young boy who lives with his family. One summer, his cousin Mourad, who is known for his daring and adventurous personality, shows up at his door with a beautiful white horse. Mourad, who comes from a family known for their financial struggles, claims that he found the horse. However, Aram is immediately curious and skeptical about how Mourad managed to obtain such a magnificent animal.
Despite the initial uncertainty, Aram is drawn into Mourad’s world of excitement and risk. He goes along with Mourad's story that he “borrowed” the horse, unaware that Mourad has actually stolen it from a neighbor. The two cousins take the horse for a ride, but Aram is conflicted about what they’re doing. While he feels the thrill of adventure, he also knows that stealing is wrong.
As the story progresses, Aram's conscience starts to bother him. Ultimately, the horse is returned to its rightful owner, and the cousins, despite the trouble, share a moment of understanding and growth. Aram learns valuable lessons about trust, family, and moral responsibility.
The story beautifully portrays the innocence and the simplicity of rural life while touching upon universal themes like right versus wrong, and the sometimes blurry line between adventure and mischief. Through the character of Mourad, the author shows the complexity of human nature, where personal desires and ethical dilemmas collide.
NCERT Solutions of Class 11 English Snapshots Chapter 1 - Question Answers
- Why was Aram surprised to see Mourad?
Answer: Aram was surprised to see Mourad because Mourad was carrying a beautiful white horse with him. He had not expected Mourad to possess such an animal, as their family was poor and had no means to afford something so luxurious. Aram was also confused because he had never seen Mourad in such a situation before. - How did Mourad explain the possession of the horse?
Answer: Mourad explained the possession of the horse by saying that he had found it. He claimed that it was a "borrowed" horse, not a stolen one. Mourad was known for his sense of adventure, and he told Aram that he had simply borrowed the horse and would return it once the horse was no longer needed. - Why did Aram feel it was wrong to take the horse?
Answer: Aram felt it was wrong to take the horse because he knew that stealing was morally wrong. Even though Mourad tried to convince him that it was a harmless act, Aram was aware that taking something without permission belonged to someone else was a violation of ethics. - What was the reaction of the people in the village to Mourad and Aram riding the horse?
Answer: The people in the village were initially unaware that the horse was stolen. They looked at the two boys riding the horse with admiration and curiosity, as the horse was beautiful. Aram felt uneasy when people praised Mourad and him for riding the horse, realizing that it was wrong. - How did Mourad manage to get the horse?
Answer: Mourad had managed to steal the horse from a neighbor, a man named John Byro, who owned the horse. Mourad was known for his adventurous spirit and had taken the horse without anyone knowing. He claimed that it was a temporary arrangement, but the truth was that he had stolen it. - How does Aram describe Mourad in the story?
Answer: Aram describes Mourad as a daring and adventurous young man who is always full of excitement. Mourad was known for his ability to persuade people and charm them with his confidence. He was fearless and took risks without worrying about the consequences. - What is the significance of the horse in the story?
Answer: The horse symbolizes innocence and freedom. It also represents the adventurous spirit of youth and the tension between right and wrong. The horse brings the cousins closer together, but it also serves as a reminder of the moral dilemma they face—whether to keep the horse or return it. - Why did Mourad choose Aram to accompany him on the horse?
Answer: Mourad chose Aram to accompany him because he knew that Aram was a close relative and would not reveal the secret. Aram was also young and easily influenced by Mourad’s charm. He trusted Mourad, which made him a perfect companion for the adventure. - How does Aram feel about the horse in the beginning?
Answer: At first, Aram is skeptical and uncertain about the horse. While he is curious and eager to experience the adventure, he feels guilty for taking part in an act he knows is wrong. He struggles with the excitement and the moral implications of the situation. - How does the story portray the relationship between Aram and Mourad?
Answer: The story portrays the relationship between Aram and Mourad as one of close kinship and mutual trust. Although Aram is initially hesitant, he looks up to Mourad for his confidence and adventurous spirit. Their relationship is one of influence, where Mourad encourages Aram to take risks, and Aram follows along. - What does the return of the horse teach Aram?
Answer: The return of the horse teaches Aram the value of honesty and moral responsibility. Aram learns that even though an adventure may seem exciting in the moment, it is important to do what is right. He realizes that the consequences of actions, such as stealing, must be faced. - What role does the theme of trust play in the story?
Answer: The theme of trust plays a crucial role in the story, as Aram trusts his cousin Mourad despite his doubts. Even though Aram feels uneasy about the theft, his trust in Mourad leads him to follow along. Mourad also trusts Aram with the secret, knowing that he would not reveal it. - Why do you think Mourad steals the horse?
Answer: Mourad steals the horse because he is desperate for excitement and adventure. He enjoys the thrill of breaking the rules and taking risks. He is also aware of his family’s financial struggles and may have wanted the horse as a temporary escape from the hardships they face. - How does the ending of the story convey the message of morality?
Answer: The ending of the story conveys the message of morality when the horse is returned to its rightful owner, John Byro. Although the adventure had been thrilling, Aram and Mourad are forced to face the consequences of their actions. The act of returning the horse shows that honesty and integrity are more important than temporary excitement. - What makes the horse in the story "beautiful"?
Answer: The horse is described as "beautiful" because of its appearance, being pure white and striking. It symbolizes freedom and grace. The beauty of the horse also contrasts with the moral dilemma the characters face, as its beauty is overshadowed by the act of theft. - What does Aram learn from the experience of the summer?
Answer: Aram learns a valuable lesson about morality, honesty, and the consequences of actions. He discovers that it is important to consider the right course of action and that thrill or adventure should never come at the cost of doing something wrong. - How does the setting of the story contribute to the theme?
Answer: The setting of the story, a small rural village, creates a simple and innocent backdrop where the characters’ moral dilemmas unfold. The close-knit community where everyone knows each other adds to the tension of the story, as the cousins’ actions are easily noticed. - What do you think is the central message of the story?
Answer: The central message of the story is about the conflict between right and wrong, the innocence of childhood, and the consequences of one’s actions. It teaches the importance of honesty, responsibility, and making the right choices, even when faced with temptation. - Why did Aram feel guilty after riding the horse?
Answer: Aram felt guilty after riding the horse because he realized that stealing was wrong. Although the adventure was exciting, he understood that the horse belonged to someone else, and taking it was not justifiable. His conscience bothered him throughout the ride. - Why did Mourad return the horse to its owner?
Answer: Mourad returned the horse to its owner because he understood that the thrill of the adventure had worn off and that keeping the horse would have serious consequences. He likely realized that it was better to return the horse than to risk getting caught and causing harm to Aram. - How did Aram’s attitude towards Mourad change by the end of the story?
Answer: By the end of the story, Aram’s attitude towards Mourad becomes more mature. While he had initially admired Mourad’s adventurous spirit, Aram realizes the importance of doing the right thing. He still cares for Mourad, but he also understands the value of honesty and responsibility. - How does Saroyan depict the innocence of childhood in the story?
Answer: Saroyan depicts the innocence of childhood through the characters of Aram and Mourad. They both experience the thrill of adventure without fully understanding the consequences of their actions. Their carefree attitudes and the way they deal with the theft show the innocent nature of childhood. - What do you think of Mourad’s character?
Answer: Mourad’s character is charismatic, adventurous, and carefree. He is willing to take risks and is not afraid of breaking the rules. However, his actions also reflect a lack of consideration for others’ feelings, as seen in his theft of the horse. Despite this, his charm and confidence make him an appealing character to Aram. - Do you think the ending of the story is satisfying? Why or why not?
Answer: The ending of the story is satisfying because it teaches a valuable lesson about morality and responsibility. The return of the horse shows that while the adventure was exciting, the right thing to do is always more important than the thrill of breaking the rules. It provides a sense of closure for both the characters and the readers. - What lesson do you think the author wants readers to learn from the story?
Answer: The author wants readers to learn that the excitement of adventure and breaking the rules can be tempting, but it is important to always act responsibly. The story teaches the value of honesty, morality, and doing what is right, even when it is difficult. - How does Saroyan use humor in the story?
Answer: Saroyan uses humor subtly in the story, particularly in Mourad’s bold and confident behavior. His ability to talk his way out of tricky situations adds a lighthearted element to the narrative. However, this humor is tempered by the moral seriousness of the story's conclusion. - Why does Aram refer to Mourad as a "crazy" person?
Answer: Aram refers to Mourad as "crazy" because of his daring and impulsive nature. Mourad’s actions, like stealing the horse, were reckless and often seemed to defy reason. However, this crazy behavior is also what made him an intriguing and captivating figure for Aram. - How does the author use irony in the story?
Answer: The author uses irony in the way that the children, despite knowing the horse was stolen, are initially excited about riding it and even admired by others. The irony lies in the fact that the act of stealing something beautiful results in the children feeling conflicted about their actions, highlighting the moral dilemma. - How does the title "The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse" relate to the story?
Answer: The title reflects the central symbol of the story—the beautiful white horse. It represents the summer of adventure, innocence, and the thrill of breaking the rules. The horse is a focal point of the cousins’ relationship and the moral challenges they face. - How do you think the story would have been different if Aram had not accompanied Mourad?
Answer: If Aram had not accompanied Mourad, he might not have experienced the same moral awakening. His presence made him part of the adventure, and he learned important lessons about right and wrong. Without Aram, Mourad might not have had the same sense of responsibility to return the horse.
NCERT Solutions of Class 11 English Snapshots Chapter 1 FAQs
How does Saroyan use humor in the story?
Saroyan uses humor through the character of Mourad, whose boldness and charm allow him to talk his way out of tricky situations. His carefree attitude and the way he convinces Aram to join him in the adventure add a lighthearted tone to the story. However, the humor is balanced with the underlying moral lesson.
How does the story highlight the difference between Aram and Mourad's personalities?
Aram is more thoughtful and morally conscious, feeling uneasy about their actions, while Mourad is daring, adventurous, and carefree. Mourad's confidence and impulsiveness lead him to take risks without considering the consequences, while Aram, though influenced by Mourad, is more aware of the ethical implications of their actions.
Why do you think Mourad returns the horse?
Mourad returns the horse because he realizes that the thrill of the adventure has passed and that keeping the horse would have serious consequences. Additionally, he understands that it is the right thing to do, and the adventure is over. Returning the horse restores a sense of responsibility.
What is the main theme of the story "The Summer of the Beautiful White Horse"?
The main theme of the story revolves around the innocence of childhood, moral dilemmas, trust, and the conflict between right and wrong. The cousins, Aram and Mourad, embark on an adventure involving a stolen horse, and through their journey, the story highlights the values of honesty, responsibility, and family bonds.
Why does Aram feel conflicted about riding the horse?
Aram feels conflicted about riding the horse because he is aware that the horse was stolen. While he is excited about the adventure, he knows that stealing is wrong, and his conscience bothers him throughout the experience. He is torn between the thrill of the ride and the moral implications of their actions.
How does Mourad justify taking the horse?
Mourad justifies taking the horse by claiming that he had "borrowed" it, not stolen it. He tells Aram that he intends to return it after some time. Mourad, known for his bold and adventurous nature, convinces Aram that the act is harmless, though it is, in reality, a theft.
Why does Aram trust Mourad despite knowing that the horse is stolen?
Aram trusts Mourad because of their close relationship as cousins and because of Mourad's charismatic and persuasive personality. Mourad is adventurous and daring, and his confidence in the situation convinces Aram to go along with him, even though Aram feels uneasy about the theft.
What does the white horse symbolize in the story?
The white horse symbolizes freedom, beauty, and innocence. It also represents the thrill of adventure and the temptation of doing something that feels exciting but is morally wrong. The horse becomes a central symbol around which the cousins' moral dilemma unfolds.
What is the moral lesson Aram learns by the end of the story?
Aram learns that honesty, responsibility, and doing what is right are more important than the excitement of adventure or breaking the rules. By the end of the story, Aram understands the consequences of actions like stealing and gains a deeper sense of morality.