NCERT Solutions For Class 11 English Snapshots Chapter 5 Mother’s Day with Summary, Short and Long Answers

NCERT Solutions For Class 11 English Snapshots Chapter 5 Mother’s Day: Mother’s Day is a one-act play written by J.B. Priestley, included in the Class 11 English Snapshots textbook. This humorous and thought-provoking play focuses on the role of a mother in a typical household and how her love, care, and efforts often go unnoticed. Through light comedy and a clever twist, the play sends a strong message about respecting and valuing mothers for all that they do.

The story is about Mrs Annie Pearson, a gentle and loving housewife who is taken for granted by her husband and children. They expect her to do all the work without ever thanking her. Her friend, Mrs Fitzgerald, who is bold and practical, suggests an unusual solution—they switch personalities using a magical trick. When Mrs Fitzgerald (in Mrs Pearson’s body) begins to act strong and assertive, the family is shocked. Slowly, they realize how unfairly they’ve been treating their mother.

This chapter uses humour and satire to teach an important lesson. It helps students understand family values, women’s roles in society, and the importance of mutual respect in relationships. It also shows how drama can be a powerful medium to convey social messages.

In this NCERT solution guide, you will find:

1. A summary of the play in simple language,
2. Short answer questions to test understanding,
3. Long answer questions for detailed learning,
4. Character sketches and explanations of key ideas.

These solutions are perfect for quick revision and exam preparation. They follow the latest CBSE guidelines and help students grasp the core message of the play easily. Whether you’re preparing for your test or just want to understand the play better, these answers will help you every step of the way.

NCERT Mother’s Day Class 11 Questions with Answers PDF

Welcome to our “Mother’s Day Class 11 Questions and Answers PDF” guide! In this document, we provide detailed solutions and answers for the Mother’s Day chapter from the Class 11 English Snapshots book. Whether you’re looking for short answers or in-depth explanations, this guide has got you covered.

Here, you’ll find solutions to all the important questions from Snapshot Class 11 Chapter 5, helping you understand the themes and lessons of the chapter. We’ve made it easier for you to access concise answers that align with the CBSE Class 11 syllabus.

This resource is designed to help you revise efficiently and prepare well for your exams. So, let’s dive into the questions and answers to boost your knowledge of this interesting chapter!

NCERT-Solutions-for-Class-11-English-Snapshots-Chapter-5-Mothers-Day

English Snapshot Class 11 Chapter 5 Questions and Answers

Here are all the mother’s day class 11 questions and answers PDF from the class 11 English NCERT textbook

Question 1: This play, written in the 1950s, is a humorous and satirical depiction of the status of the mother in the family.

1. What are the issues it raises?
2. Do you think it caricatures these issues or do you think that the problems it raises are genuine? How does the play resolve the issues? Do you agree with the resolution?

Answer:

1. The play raises many serious issues. The first and foremost is proper appreciation of a housewife’s role and responsibilities. Those who work eight hours a day and forty hours a week treat the housewife as an unpaid domestic servant, who must carry out their orders. They neither request her nor thank her for her services. The second issue is the reciprocity of love and gratitude towards the mother or wife. The husband, son and daughter leave the lady of the house alone every night and go out to enjoy themselves in their several ways. They do not take any notice of her and have become thoughtless and selfish. The mother’s excessive love, care and promptness to serve them also spoil them.
2. The problems the play raises are serious. The treatment is of course, comic. The playwright adopts an unusual method to resolve the issues. He takes the help of magic bf the East. Incantation of a magical spell helps in the interchange of the personalities. Now Mrs Pearson, with the strong and sinister personality of Mrs Fitzgerald, gives rough treatment to the daughter, son and husband respectively. Her stern looks and commanding tone suggests to them that she can be really tough. The spoilt member are brought round by the heavy dose of exposure of reality to them. They agree to stay and help in preparing the supper while the housewife has a talk with her husband. The resolution of the issues seems far-fetched and unnatural but extreme means have to be adopted in disaster management.

Question 2: If you were to write these issues today, what are some of the incidents, examples and problems that you would think of as relevant?

Answer: Various responses are possible One such response is given below: The incidents of unfair treatment to the fair sex at home, at work, in public transport and elsewhere will prove handy. The examples of exploitation of female workers with lower wages, harassment by seniors, indecent remarks, eve-teasing and molestation can highlight the problems of social inequality that women face in practice.

Even in the twenty first century women face the same problems in spite of the talk of women empowerment. The poor housewives have to bear the physical torment and mental anguish at the hands of bullish husbands who boast of their masculinity by inflicting physical violence, barbs and taunts on the defense less women.

Examples of rapes and sexual harassment which hug the limelight in daily newspapers can also be included to highlight the problems of insecurity of women in modem society.

Question 3: Is drama a good medium for conveying a social message? Discuss.

Answer: Yes, drama is certainly a good medium for conveying a social message. Direct moralising is often resented and usually ignored. Drama is a presentation of a slice of life through characters placed in various situations.

The attention of the spectators centres round their actions and reactions. Most of them feel fully involved with the protagonists. The working out of the theme generally leaves a message—sometimes obvious and explicit but in most of the cases, indirect and implicit.

The social message of these plays seems to come out of the interactions of the characters and their traits of character. The victory of evil over good is usually portrayed indirectly. These day we find many plays centred around themes creating social awareness such as evils of drinking and smoking; dangers of pollution, child labour, the decreasing female ratio and need to empower women.

Question 4: Discuss in groups plays or films with a strong message of social reform that you have watched.

Answer: For group discussion at class level. There can be varied responses. One such response is given below: The latest film I have watched recently is ‘SWADESH’. It has a strong message of social reform.

It tells the story of an Indian scientist at NASA (America) who visits his ancestral home in India.

The poor condition of the villagers and lack of basic facilities fills him with deep agony. He resigns his job in America and returns to his native country (Swadesh) to begin his work of rural uplift. He gives the villagers a message that self-help is the best help and we cannot depend for everything on the Government.

This remote village is plunged in darkness after sunset as there is no electricity. With the help of a few villagers, the scientist is able to produce hydroelectricity and light the village homes. The water can be used for irrigation purposes also. Thus the economic and social condition of the villagers undergoes a sea change.

Also Read: NCERT Solutions for Class 11

Mother’s Day Class 11 Summary

Here is the class 11 English chapter 5 mother’s day summary to give you a quick overview of chapter:

“Mother’s Day” is a one-act play written by J.B. Priestley. The story revolves around a young woman named Judy and her mother, Mrs. Pearson.

Main Characters

• Mrs. Pearson: A caring mother who feels unappreciated by her family.
• Judy: Mrs. Pearson’s daughter, who is self-centered and often ignores her mother’s feelings.

Plot Summary

The play begins with Mrs. Pearson feeling tired and frustrated because her family takes her for granted. She wishes they would appreciate her more. Judy, along with her brother, often treats their mother like a servant. One day, Mrs. Pearson decides to change things. She stands up for herself and demands respect from her family. This surprises Judy and makes her realize how much she has overlooked her mother’s hard work and love.

“Mother’s Day” is a one-act play written by J.B. Priestley. The story revolves around a young woman named Judy and her mother, Mrs. Pearson.

Main Characters

• Mrs. Pearson: A caring mother who feels unappreciated by her family.
• Judy: Mrs. Pearson’s daughter, who is self-centered and often ignores her mother’s feelings.

Plot Summary

The play begins with Mrs. Pearson feeling tired and frustrated because her family takes her for granted. She wishes they would appreciate her more. Judy, along with her brother, often treats their mother like a servant.One day, Mrs. Pearson decides to change things. She stands up for herself and demands respect from her family. This surprises Judy and makes her realize how much she has overlooked her mother’s hard work and love.

Themes

• Appreciation: The play highlights the importance of valuing our parents.
• Family Dynamics: It explores the relationships within a family and the need for communication.

Conclusion

By the end of the play, Judy understands the significance of Mother’s Day and promises to treat her mother with more love and respect. The story teaches us to appreciate our mothers every day, not just on special occasions.

• Appreciation: The play highlights the importance of valuing our parents.
• Family Dynamics: It explores the relationships within a family and the need for communication.

Do Check: CBSE Class 11 English Mother’s Day MCQs

Mother’s Day Class 11 Short Answer Type Questions

Ques 1. How are Mrs Pearson and Mrs Fitzgerald different?

Ans. The contrast between the two women is striking. Mrs Annie Pearson appears gentle and unsure of herself. She avoids conflict and lets her family take advantage of her. In contrast, Mrs Fitzgerald is bold, self-assured, and practical. This difference lays the foundation for the drama’s central idea: is drama a good medium for conveying a social message? This play proves it is.

Ques 2. Why does Mrs Pearson say “I’m much obliged”?

Ans. She says this to thank Mrs Fitzgerald for reading her fortune. She’s amazed and grateful to have someone next door with such skills.

Ques 3. What does Mrs Fitzgerald predict for Mrs Pearson?

Ans. Mrs Fitzgerald says the future depends on what Mrs Pearson decides to do next. It could be good or bad—it’s her call.

Ques 4. What issue does Mrs Pearson face, and who is at fault?

Ans. Mrs Pearson is overworked and unappreciated. Her husband and children expect her to wait on them constantly. Sadly, she has allowed this to happen by not standing up for herself.

Ques 5. What course of action does Mrs Fitzgerald suggest to Mrs Pearson to tackle the situation?

Ans. She advises Mrs Pearson to be firm and stop spoiling her family. She must take charge, make them responsible, and demand respect. This is a key turning point in the play, and it answers the question: what course of action does Mrs Fitzgerald suggest to Mrs Pearson to tackle the situation?

Ques 6. Why is it hard for Mrs Pearson to talk to her family?

Ans. Mrs Pearson avoids any situation that could lead to an argument. She drops hints instead of speaking directly. This makes things worse because her family doesn’t understand how she feels.

Ques 7. What is Mrs Pearson’s reaction when Mrs Fitzgerald offers to help directly?

Ans. She’s worried and unsure. She thinks her family will not accept criticism from an outsider, even if it’s justified.

Ques 8. How does Mrs Fitzgerald plan to deal with the family of Mrs Pearson?

Ans. She comes up with an unusual plan—Mrs Fitzgerald plans to deal with the family of Mrs Pearson by switching bodies with her using a magical spell. This way, she can act tough without ruining Mrs Pearson’s image.

Ques 9. Why is Doris surprised when she gets home?

Ans. She is shocked to see her mother relaxed, smoking, and playing cards. This is not how her mother normally behaves.

Ques 10. What upsets Doris when she returns home?

Ans. Doris is annoyed that her yellow dress isn’t ironed and tea isn’t ready. She thinks her mother is being careless.

Ques 11. How does Mrs Pearson reply to Doris about hard work?

Ans. Mrs Pearson calmly reminds Doris that she works twice as hard without any pay or appreciation.

Ques 12. What does Mrs Pearson say about Charlie Spence?

Ans. She bluntly says he’s not a great match—he has buck teeth and lacks intelligence. This hurts Doris’s feelings.

Ques 13. Why is Cyril upset with his mother?

Ans. He expects tea and his clothes to be fixed. When none of that is done, he feels disappointed and angry.

Ques 14. What does Cyril say about his mother’s words, and what is her reply?

Ans. Cyril says her tone is disrespectful. She fires back that all of them talk that way and avoid work. She’s just following their example.

Ques 15. How do Doris and Cyril react when their mother mentions wanting a stout?

Ans. They are shocked. Their mother never behaves this way, especially during tea time.

Ques 16. What changes in their mother shock Doris and Cyril?

Ans. They can’t understand why their polite and obedient mother is now bold, blunt, and acting strangely.

Ques 17. How does Mrs Pearson guide her kids to act more responsibly?

Ans. She scolds them for being selfish and lazy. She tells them she’ll no longer work all weekend without thanks and might even take time off.

Ques 18. What does Mrs Pearson plan for the weekends?

Ans. She says she’ll help with chores only if she’s asked nicely. She might even go out, just like they do.

Ques 19. Why does Mrs Pearson threaten Doris with a slap?

Ans. Doris keeps asking silly questions about where she’s going and with whom. Mrs Pearson gets irritated by her tone.

Ques 20. What “change” does Mrs Pearson mention to George, and how does he respond?

Ans. George is confused when he sees his wife drinking stout. She says it’s just a change from her routine, suggesting she’s no longer following old patterns.

Ques 21. Why does Mrs Pearson make a sarcastic comment about tea?

Ans. George says he didn’t want tea, yet complains it wasn’t made. Mrs Pearson mocks his indecisiveness.

Ques 22. How is George treated at the club?

Ans. People laugh at him and call him silly names like “Pompy-Ompy.” He’s a joke to them, though he doesn’t realize it.

Do Check: Essay on Mother’s Day for Children and Students

Ques 23. What is Mrs Pearson’s complaint about George going to the club?

Ans. She’s upset he spends every evening with people who mock him and ignores his family.

Ques 24. Do you agree with Mrs Pearson that it’s good to hurt feelings sometimes?

Ans. Yes, sometimes the truth is necessary, even if it hurts. It helps people realize their mistakes and change.

Ques 25. Why doesn’t Mrs Pearson trust Cyril’s opinions?

Ans. She thinks Cyril wastes time and money on entertainment and doesn’t know much about serious matters.

Ques 26. Why does George get angry at Mrs Fitzgerald’s comments?

Ans. He’s offended that she uses his first name and talks about private family matters. He finds it disrespectful.

Ques 27. What manners does Mrs Pearson want George to learn?

Ans. She wants him to be polite, greet guests properly, and not act like a stranger in his own home.

Ques 28. Why does Mrs Pearson threaten to slap George?

Ans. He yells at her, and she won’t tolerate it anymore. She warns him to stop shouting.

Ques 29. Why does George think someone’s gone mad?

Ans. The whole situation, including the identity swap and Mrs Fitzgerald’s strange behavior, confuses him completely.

Ques 30. How is Doris taught a lesson in respect?

Ans. Mrs Pearson scolds her when she talks rudely to Mrs Fitzgerald. She says she won’t allow her daughter to behave like that.

Ques 31. How does the real Mrs Pearson learn Doris feels sad?

Ans. In Mrs Fitzgerald’s body, she hears Doris saying how miserable she feels after being criticized.

Ques 32. Why does the real Mrs Pearson say “That’s enough”?

Ans. She feels Mrs Fitzgerald, in her body, is being too harsh and wants to end the act before more harm is done.

Ques 33. What is Mrs Fitzgerald’s final advice to Mrs Pearson?

Ans. She tells her to stay strong and not go back to her old soft self. A firm look or strict tone now and then will keep things in order.

Ques 34. What would Mrs Pearson like the family to do?

Ans. She wants them to stay in during evenings, help with dinner, and maybe play rummy together—a proper family activity.

Ques 35. How does the stern treatment reform the spoilt children?

Ans. At first, Doris and Cyril are worried. But when their mother smiles, they relax and agree to help with supper and spend the evening at home.

Mother’s Day Class 11 Long Answer Type Questions

Q1. What do you think is the theme of the play? How has it been worked out?

Ans. The central theme of the play Mother’s Day revolves around the neglected status of women—especially mothers—within their own homes. Despite putting in endless effort, love, and care, housewives are often taken for granted. They work silently, fulfilling every demand without ever being appreciated or acknowledged. This situation reduces them to mere unpaid workers in their own families.

This theme is brought out through the portrayal of Mrs Annie Pearson and her family. Her husband George, daughter Doris, and son Cyril treat her like a servant rather than a family member. They expect her to cater to their needs without offering any help or thanks. The situation changes when Mrs Fitzgerald, the Pearsons’ neighbour, suggests an unusual course of action—swapping personalities. This bold step shakes up the family and forces them to reflect on their behavior.

Thus, the play uses humour and a clever plot device to convey a strong social message, proving that drama is a good medium for conveying a social message. The idea is effectively worked out through the transformation in the family’s attitude by the end.

Q2. What impression do you form of Mrs Annie Pearson?

Ans. Mrs Annie Pearson appears to be a kind-hearted, gentle, and loving mother. She is always seen running around to take care of her husband and children. Her soft nature and willingness to please have led her family to treat her with disregard and take her for granted. She is deeply hurt by their behavior but doesn’t know how to confront them.

She avoids conflict and unpleasantness, which makes her seem timid. Yet, she cares a lot about her family. With the help of Mrs Fitzgerald’s confidence, she temporarily takes on a stronger personality, revealing what happens when her family is forced to face the truth.

This reveals her inner strength. She’s not weak—just unassertive. By the end of the play, she starts standing up for herself, showing that she can manage her home with dignity and respect. The character sketch of Mrs Pearson reflects a caring yet neglected woman who finds the courage to reclaim her respect.

Q3. “The shock treatment makes the thoughtless and selfish persons realise the real position of the lady of the house.” How far do you agree with the statement?

Ans. I completely agree with this statement. The Pearson family had become selfish and inconsiderate. Mrs Pearson’s kindness and patience had been misused. They never thought about her feelings or needs.

However, when Mrs Pearson temporarily takes on Mrs Fitzgerald’s bold and assertive personality, the entire household is thrown into confusion. Doris is the first to be stunned when her orders are ignored. Cyril is surprised when he is asked to do things on his own. Even Mr George Pearson, who spends his evenings at the club, is shocked when his wife tells him that people at the club laugh at him.

This shock treatment opens their eyes. They begin to understand how badly they’ve been treating Mrs Pearson. By the end of the play, they are ready to help her and listen to her instructions. It shows that sometimes only tough love can bring about change. The play strongly proves that drama is a good medium for conveying important social lessons.

Q4. Write a note on the role of Mrs Fitzgerald in the play.

Ans. Mrs Fitzgerald is a wise and practical woman who plays a major role in solving the problems of the Pearson family. She is Mrs Pearson’s neighbour and also practices fortune-telling. When she hears how Mrs Pearson is being treated at home, she quickly suggests a creative course of action—they switch personalities using her knowledge of the occult.

As Mrs Pearson with Mrs Fitzgerald’s bold nature, she handles the situation firmly. She speaks directly to each family member and points out their flaws. She even smokes and drinks, which shocks the family. She says clearly that she deserves respect and that she has also worked hard all day.

This approach forces the Pearsons to rethink their behaviour. She speaks without fear and even tells Mr Pearson how others mock him at the club. In the end, she switches back, leaving a changed atmosphere in the house.

Mrs Fitzgerald is the one who sets the whole plan in motion. She shows us how women can support each other and solve problems together.

Q5. The play ‘Mother’s Day’ is a humorous and satirical depiction of the status of the woman in a family. Bring out briefly the elements of humour and satire.

Ans. The play mixes humour and satire to highlight the serious issue of how housewives are often unappreciated. The idea of two women swapping personalities is both funny and clever. The sudden change in Mrs Pearson’s behaviour, such as smoking and talking back, surprises her family and creates many funny moments.

There’s also satire in how the family behaves. Doris cries over her yellow dress not being ironed, and George is mocked at the club for being too slow. The exaggerated reactions and witty dialogue add to the comedy. For instance:

“Ticking her off now, are you, Annie?”

“Pompy-Ompy Pearson!”

These lines are humorous but also point out the absurd behaviour of the family. The play makes us laugh while making a strong point about respect and balance in relationships. It’s a fine example of how drama is a good medium for conveying a social message through laughter.

Q6. Comment on the ending of the play ‘Mother’s Day’.

Ans. The play ends on a positive and hopeful note. Mrs Pearson’s family finally realizes their mistakes and decides to change. Mrs Pearson, now back to her original self, is more confident. She no longer hesitates to speak up. Her family agrees to stay home, prepare supper, and play a game together. This is a big change from the beginning when they all ignored her.

George, Doris, and Cyril are no longer giving orders. Instead, they are ready to follow her lead. Her sharp tone and firm words earn her the respect she deserves. The ending suggests that with courage and support, women can transform their families.

It’s a touching conclusion that leaves the audience with a clear message—mothers should not be taken for granted. It also reaffirms the power of theatre to inspire change, which supports the idea that drama is a good medium for conveying a social message.

Q7. Write a note on the title of the play ‘Mother’s Day’.

Ans. The title Mother’s Day is very fitting. It focuses on the central character—Mrs Pearson—and the journey she takes to earn respect from her family. While “Mother’s Day” is usually about celebrating mothers, this play gives a deeper message: mothers should be valued every day, not just once a year.

The play captures the emotional struggles of a mother who is ignored and disrespected. It then shows her rise in confidence with the help of a friend. The final scene, where the family stays home, makes supper, and listens to her, is her real gift on this “Mother’s Day.”

The title highlights the transformation of the family and the empowerment of the mother. It also brings home the message that plays or films with a strong message of social reform can be both entertaining and meaningful.