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Q.Aunt Jennifer is in a constant state of ______________. (nervousness/happiness) (Aunt Jennifer's Tigers)

CBSECBSE Class XII Board 2025MCQ· 1mImportance★★★★★
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Aunt Jennifer is in a constant state of nervousness, stemming from the oppressive nature of her marriage and the patriarchal society she inhabits, a condition starkly contrasted by the fearless tigers she creates in her art.

The poem "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" by Adrienne Rich delves into the themes of patriarchy, oppression, and the yearning for freedom through artistic expression. To understand Aunt Jennifer's constant state, we must examine her life as depicted in the poem, particularly the contrast between her personal reality and the vibrant world she creates. Her emotional state is not explicitly named as 'nervousness' or 'happiness' in the poem, but it is strongly implied through her actions, physical descriptions, and the symbolism used.

Here's why "nervousness" is the correct choice:

  1. Physical Manifestation of Fear and Subjugation: The poem describes Aunt Jennifer's "fingers fluttering through her wool," finding "the ivory needle hard to pull." This physical difficulty and trembling suggest a deep-seated anxiety and lack of strength, which is often associated with nervousness or fear. Her hands are explicitly called "terrified hands."

  2. The Weight of the Wedding Band: The line "The massive weight of Uncle's wedding band / Sits heavily upon Aunt Jennifer's hand" is highly symbolic. It's not just the physical weight of a ring; it represents the oppressive burden of her marriage and the patriarchal expectations placed upon her. This "massive weight" signifies a life of subjugation and fear, which would naturally lead to a state of constant nervousness rather than happiness.

    Important

    The "massive weight of Uncle's wedding band" is a central metaphor for the oppressive nature of Aunt Jennifer's marriage and the patriarchal control she experiences. It symbolizes not just a physical burden, but an emotional and psychological one. …

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