Long Walk To Freedom | Lesson 4 | Prose | Summary | Questions and Answers |

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English | Class 10th | Tulip Series |

Long Walk To Freedom | Lesson 4 | Prose | Summary | Questions and Answers |

 

SHORT SUMMARY

            "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela is an autobiography detailing Mandela's life, the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, and his journey to becoming the country's first black president. The book chronicles his early life, including his tribal upbringing and education, his growing political awareness, and his involvement with the African National Congress (ANC). Mandela describes the harsh realities of apartheid, his arrest, and the 27 years he spent in prison. Despite these hardships, he remained steadfast in his commitment to achieving equality and justice. His release from prison and subsequent election as president marked a significant victory for the anti-apartheid movement and symbolized the triumph of democracy and reconciliation over oppression and division.

 

Thinking about the Text

Question 1. Why May 10 is an 'autumn day' in South Africa?

Answer: May 10 is referred to as an 'autumn day' in South Africa metaphorically rather than literally. In the context of Nelson Mandela's autobiography "Long Walk to Freedom," this date marks the day in 1994 when Mandela was inaugurated as the first black president of South Africa.

The term 'autumn day' symbolically represents a time of change and transformation. Just as autumn is a season of transition in nature, May 10 signifies a significant transition in the history of South Africa. The inauguration marked the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era of democracy and racial equality. It was a day of profound change, moving from the old system of racial segregation and oppression to a new society based on justice, freedom, and equality for all citizens.

Therefore, May 10 is an 'autumn day' because it symbolizes the transformative change and the new beginning in South Africa's political and social landscape.

Question 2. At the beginning of his speech Mandela mentions “an extraordinary human disaster”. What does he mean by this? What is the “glorious human achievement” he speaks at the end?

Answer: In his speech, Nelson Mandela refers to "an extraordinary human disaster" to describe the system of apartheid in South Africa. Apartheid was a policy of racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the government, which caused immense suffering, injustice, and inequality for the non-white population of the country. It led to widespread human rights abuses, economic deprivation, and social disenfranchisement for the majority of South Africans.

By "glorious human achievement," Mandela is speaking of the end of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic government in which all citizens, regardless of race, have equal rights and opportunities. This achievement signifies the triumph of justice, equality, and human dignity over oppression and racism. The transition to democracy and the election of Mandela as the first black president of South Africa represent a monumental victory for human rights and a testament to the resilience and courage of those who fought for freedom and equality.

Question 3. What ideals does Mandela set for the future of South Africa?

Answer: Nelson Mandela sets several important ideals for the future of South Africa in his speech:

1. Equality and Justice: Mandela envisions a country where all citizens, regardless of race, gender, or background, have equal rights and opportunities. He stresses the importance of eradicating all forms of discrimination and injustice.

2. Freedom and Human Dignity: He emphasizes the significance of freedom for all South Africans, advocating for a society where human dignity is respected and upheld. Mandela highlights the need to protect individual freedoms and human rights.

3. Reconciliation and Unity: Mandela calls for national unity and reconciliation, urging South Africans to work together to overcome past divisions and build a cohesive society. He stresses the importance of forgiveness and moving forward as one nation.

4. Democracy and Good Governance: He sets the ideal of a democratic South Africa, where the government is accountable to its people and operates with transparency, fairness, and integrity. Mandela promotes the idea of a government that serves the interests of all its citizens.

5. Peace and Stability: Mandela aspires for a peaceful South Africa, free from violence and conflict. He encourages efforts to maintain stability and security within the country.

6. Social and Economic Development: He envisions a South Africa where there is progress and prosperity for all. Mandela emphasizes the importance of addressing poverty, improving education and healthcare, and ensuring economic opportunities for everyone.

By setting these ideals, Mandela aims to guide South Africa towards a brighter, more equitable, and prosperous future, rooted in the principles of justice, freedom, and unity.

Question 4. Why did such a large number of international leaders attend the inauguration? What did it signify the triumph of?

Answer: A large number of international leaders attended Nelson Mandela's inauguration to celebrate and honour the end of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic South Africa. Their presence signified global recognition and support for the triumph of freedom, equality, and justice over racial oppression and segregation. It marked a historic moment of solidarity with South Africa's peaceful transition to a non-racial democracy and underscored the international community's commitment to human rights and democratic governance. The event symbolized a victory for human dignity and the universal values of liberty and equality.

Question 5. What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all the African Patriots” who had gone before him?

Answer: When Nelson Mandela says he is "simply the sum of all the African Patriots" who had gone before him, he means that his achievements and position are the result of the collective efforts, struggles, and sacrifices of countless individuals who fought for freedom and equality in South Africa. Mandela acknowledges that he stands on the shoulders of those who came before him, recognizing that the progress made and the end of apartheid were possible because of the unwavering dedication and courage of many patriots throughout history. He humbly attributes his success to the broader movement for justice and liberation led by these heroes.

Question 6. Would you agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”? How does Mandela illustrate this?

Answer: Yes, I would agree that the "depths of oppression" create "heights of character." Mandela illustrates this by recounting the experiences of countless South Africans who, despite severe oppression under apartheid, developed immense resilience, moral strength, and an unyielding spirit. Mandela himself is a prime example, having endured 27 years in prison, yet emerging with a vision of reconciliation and leadership that helped transform South Africa. This profound adversity forged leaders of exceptional character who were committed to justice and equality.

Question 7. What “twin obligations” does Mandela mention?

Answer: Mandela mentions the "twin obligations" of every individual: the obligation to their family, parents, spouse, and children; and the obligation to their people, community, and country. He emphasizes that in a just society, fulfilling these obligations is possible, but under apartheid, it was a struggle to honour both due to oppressive laws.

Question 8. How did Mandela's understanding of freedom change with age and experience?

Answer: Mandela's understanding of freedom evolved from a desire for personal liberty during his youth to a deeper recognition of the collective freedom of his people. As he matured and experienced the injustices of apartheid, he realized that true freedom could only be achieved when all South Africans were free from oppression and discrimination.

Question 9. How did Mandela's “hunger for freedom” change his life?

Answer: Mandela's "hunger for freedom" transformed his life from a pursuit of personal ambitions to a lifelong commitment to the struggle against apartheid. It led him to join the African National Congress (ANC) and take on leadership roles in the fight for racial equality. This relentless pursuit of freedom resulted in his arrest and imprisonment for 27 years. Despite the hardships, Mandela's dedication ultimately contributed to the dismantling of apartheid and his emergence as a global symbol of resistance and resilience.

Language Work

1. In Column A are some expressions you will find in the text. Make a guess and match each expression with an appropriate meaning from Column B.

 

Column A

Column B

(a) A rainbow gathering of different colours and nations   (b) The seat of white supremacy   (c) Be overwhelmed with a sense of history (d) Resilience that defies the imagination (e) A glimmer of humanity (f) A twilight existence

- A great ability (almost unimaginable) to remain unchanged by suffering (not losing hope, goodness or courage). - A half secret life, like a life lived in the fading light between sunset and darkness. - A sign of human feeling (goodness, kindness, pity, justice, etc.) - A beautiful coming together of various people, like the colours in a rainbow. - The centre of racial superiority. - Feel deeply emotional, remembering and understanding all the past events that have led up to the moment.

 

Answer:

Column A

Column B

(a) A rainbow gathering of different colours and nations   (b) The seat of white supremacy   (c) Be overwhelmed with a sense of history   (d) Resilience that defies the imagination   (e) A glimmer of humanity   (f) A twilight existence

- A beautiful coming together of various people, like the colours in a rainbow.   - The centre of racial superiority.   - Feel deeply emotional, remembering and understanding all the past events that have led up to the moment. - A great ability (almost unimaginable) to remain unchanged by suffering (not losing hope, goodness or courage). - A sign of human feeling (goodness, kindness, pity, justice, etc.) - A half secret life, like a life lived in the fading light between sunset and darkness.

 

2. Idiomatic Expressions

Match the italicised phrases in Column A with the phrase nearest in meaning in Column B. (Hint: First look for the sentence in the text in which the phrase in Column A occurs.)

Column A

Column B

1. I was not unmindful of the fact     2. when my comrades and I were pushed to our limits     3. to reassure me and keep me going

(i) had not forgotten: was aware of the fact. (ii) was not careful about the fact. (iii) forgot or was not aware of the fact. (i) pushed by the guards to the wall. (ii) took more than our share of beatings. (iii) felt that we could not endure the suffering any longer. (i) make me go on walking. (ii) help me continue to live in hope in this very difficult situation. (iii) make me remain without complaining.

 

Answer:

Column A	Column B
1. I was not unmindful of the fact   2. when my comrades and I were pushed to our limits   3. to reassure me and keep me going	(i) had not forgotten: was aware of the fact.   (iii) felt that we could not endure the suffering any longer.   (ii) help me continue to live in hope in this very difficult situation.

 

3. HOMONYMS

Homonym is used with a variety of meanings. It's commonly used to mean words which are pronounced alike but differ in meaning and spelling, e.g. Fair and fare. In more precise contexts such words are called homophones, from the Greek homos (same) + phone (sound). Homonym is also sometimes used to mean words that are spelled alike but differ in meaning and origin, and sometimes in pronunciation, e.g. wind (a breeze) and wind (to coil). Again, in more precise contexts such words are called homographs, from the Greek homos (same) + graphein (to write). In short, homonym is used as a synonymic term for both homophone and homograph.

Examples:

1. a. acclamation: applause. He was nominated by acclamation for chairmanship.

b. acclimation: used to climate. Acclimation to higher altitudes may take several months.

2. a. ail: pain(trouble). “What ails you?” he asked.

b. ale: liquor. He purchased ale and meat from this shop.

3. a. aisle: passage. She was in no hurry to walk down the aisle.

b. isle: island. We saw an isle on our voyage through the sea.

4. Read the paragraph below. Fill in the blanks with the noun forms of the verbs in brackets.

Martin Luther King's ________ (contribute) to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the ________ (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second-class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean ________ (subjugate) and ________ (humiliate) by the police and the legal system, Beatings, ________ (imprison) and sometimes death awaited those who defied the system. Martin Luther King's tactics of protest involved non-violent ________ (resist) to racial injustice.

Answer:

Martin Luther King's contribution (contribute) to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the assistance (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second-class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean subjugation (subjugate) and humilation (humiliate) by the police and the legal system, Beatings, imprisonment (imprison) and sometimes death awaited those who defied the system. Martin Luther King's tactics of protest involved non-violent resistance (resist) to racial injustice.

5. Using the Definite Article with Names

You know that the definite article 'the' is not normally used before proper nouns. Nor do proper nouns usually occur in the plural. (We do not say * The Nelson Mandela or *Nelson Mandelas.) But now look at this sentence from the text:

.... the decades of oppression and brutality..., produced the Oliver Tambos, the Walter

Sisulus...' of our time,

When a proper noun is used as a common noun, we use 'the' with the proper noun.

Choose the right answer,

(a) for example, Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, ....

(b) many other men like Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu …. /Many men of their type or kind, whose names may not be as well known.

Did you choose option (b)? Then you have the right answer!

Here are some more examples of 'the' used with proper names. Try to say what these sentences mean. (You may consult a dictionary if you wish. Look at the entry for 'the'.)

1. Mr Singh regularly invites the Amitabh Bachans and the Shah Rukh Khans to his parties.

2. Many people think that Madhuri Dixit is the Madhubala of our times.

3. History is not only the story of the Alexanders, the Napoleons and the Hitlers, but of ordinary people as well.

6. Use the following phrases to complete the sentences given below:

(i) they can be taught to love.

(ii) I was born free.

(iii) but the triumph over it.

(iv) but he who conquers the fear.

(v) to create such heights of character.

1. It requires such depths of oppression _____________

2. Courage was not the absence of fear ___________

3. If people can leam to hate ____________

4. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid ____________

5. I was not born with a hunger to be free ________________

Answer:

1. It requires such depths of oppression to create such heights of character.

2. Courage was not the absence of fear but the triumph over it.

3. If people can leam to hate they can be taught to love.

4. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid but he who conquers the fear.

5. I was not born with a hunger to be free I was born free.

7. This text repeatedly contrasts the past with the present or the future. We can use coordinated clauses to contrast two views, for emphasis or effect. Given below are sentences carrying one part of the contrast. Find in the text the second part of the contrast, and complete each item. Identify the words which signal the contrast. This has been done for you in the first item.

1. For decades, the Union Buildings had been the seat of white supremacy, and now...

2. Only moments before, the highest generals of the South African defence force and police ... saluted me and pledged their loyalty…. not so many years before they would not have saluted _________

3. Although that day neither group knew the lyrics of the anthem .... they would ________ soon

4. My country is rich in the minerals and gems that lie beneath its soil. _________

5. The Air Show was not only a display of pinpoint precision and military force, but _________

6. It was this desire for the freedom of my people... that transformed _________ into a bold one that drove __________ to become a criminal that turned into a man without a home.

Answer:

1. For decades, the Union Buildings had been the seat of white supremacy, and now...

2. Only moments before, the highest generals of the South African defence force and police ... saluted me and pledged their loyalty…. not so many years before they would not have saluted but arrested me.

3. Although that day neither group knew the lyrics of the anthem .... they would know the words by heart soon

4. My country is rich in the minerals and gems that lie beneath its soil, but I have always known that its greatest wealth is its people, finer and truer than the purest diamonds.

5. The Air Show was not only a display of pinpoint precision and military force, but also the demonstration of the military’s loyalty to democracy.

6. It was this desire for the freedom of my people... that transformed a frightened young man into a bold one that drove a law-abiding attorney to become a criminal that turned into a man without a home.

Writing Work

Draw a character sketch of any one of the following. (Collect information from books/internet).

a) Martin Luther King Jr

b) Nelson Mandela

c) M.K. Gandhi

d) Fidel Castro

Answer:

a) Character sketch of Martin Luther King Jr

        Martin Luther King Jr. was a charismatic and influential leader in the American Civil Rights Movement. He was known for his unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance and his profound ability to inspire and mobilize masses through his powerful oratory skills. A Baptist minister by training, King combined his religious faith with a passionate belief in social justice and equality. His leadership was marked by courage, perseverance, and a steadfast dedication to achieving civil rights for African Americans. Despite facing constant threats and imprisonment, he remained resilient and focused on his vision of a racially integrated and harmonious society. King’s philosophy was deeply rooted in the principles of love, compassion, and justice, which he believed were essential for true freedom. His legacy continues to inspire movements for equality and justice worldwide.

b) Character sketch of Nelson Mandela

         Nelson Mandela was a towering figure in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, renowned for his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and reconciliation. Born into the Xhosa royal family, he displayed leadership qualities early on and became actively involved in the anti-apartheid movement. Despite spending 27 years in prison, Mandela emerged with a message of forgiveness and unity, rather than bitterness. His resilience and moral integrity earned him global admiration, and he became the first black President of South Africa, leading the country through a transformative period. Mandela was a symbol of courage and sacrifice, always putting the greater good above personal gain. His dedication to peace and human rights left an indelible mark on the world, making him a global icon of hope and perseverance. His legacy is a testament to the power of enduring conviction and the human spirit's capacity for change.

c) Character sketch of M.K. Gandhi

         Mahatma Gandhi, often referred to as the "Father of the Nation" in India, was a profound leader and advocate for nonviolent resistance. Born in 1869 in Porbandar, India, Gandhi's philosophy of Satyagraha (truth force) emphasized the power of nonviolent protest to achieve social and political change. Educated in law in London, he initially practiced in South Africa, where he developed his principles of civil disobedience and passive resistance against racial discrimination. Returning to India, Gandhi led the struggle for independence from British rule through peaceful means, organizing movements like the Salt March and Quit India Movement. His personal simplicity, commitment to social justice, and ability to mobilize masses made him a pivotal figure in India's history. Gandhi’s enduring legacy lies in his moral courage and his belief in the transformative power of nonviolence and truth, influencing global movements for civil rights and freedom.

d) Character sketch of Fidel Castro

         Fidel Castro, born in 1926 in Cuba, was a prominent revolutionary leader and the architect of the Cuban Revolution. Educated in law at the University of Havana, he became a fierce critic of the corrupt Cuban government and U.S. imperialism. Castro's rise to prominence began with his leadership in the 1959 revolution that overthrew Cuban dictator Fulgencio Batista. As the leader of Cuba, Castro established a socialist state, implemented extensive land reforms, and prioritized education and healthcare. His leadership was marked by his defiant stance against U.S. influence and his role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, which brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. While he gained admiration for his role in advancing social welfare and resisting imperialism, his rule was also criticized for authoritarian practices, including suppression of political dissent and restrictions on freedom. Castro remained a polarizing figure, symbolizing both revolutionary zeal and controversial governance until his retirement in 2008 and subsequent death in 2016.

Discussion

In a group of four or five, discuss the following topics. Each group shall discuss different topic and then present a speech of about two minutes.

a) Discrimination based on race and class

b) Discrimination based on gender

c) Oppression as a tyranny

d) Loss of freedom is a loss of identity/human dignity

Answer:

a) Discrimination based on race and class

         Discrimination based on race and class manifests as systemic inequalities that disadvantage certain groups while privileging others. Racial discrimination involves prejudiced treatment and systemic barriers faced by individuals due to their race or ethnicity, leading to disparities in opportunities, justice, and living conditions. Class discrimination, or socioeconomic discrimination, involves unequal treatment based on an individual's economic status, affecting access to resources, education, and healthcare. Both forms of discrimination are often interlinked, with racial minorities disproportionately affected by class-based inequalities. Such discrimination perpetuates cycles of poverty and marginalization, impeding social mobility and reinforcing existing disparities. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive policy changes, social reforms, and active efforts to promote equality and inclusivity across all sectors of society. Combatting discrimination involves challenging prejudiced attitudes, enacting fair laws, and ensuring equal access to opportunities for all individuals regardless of race or class.

b) Discrimination based on gender

         Discrimination based on gender involves treating individuals unfairly or unequally due to their gender. This type of discrimination can manifest in various forms, including unequal pay for similar work, limited career opportunities, and biased hiring practices. Women often face barriers in the workplace, such as the glass ceiling that restricts their advancement to top executive roles. Gender discrimination also affects men, especially when societal expectations confine them to specific roles or stigmatize them for seeking help in areas traditionally associated with women. Such discrimination perpetuates gender stereotypes and reinforces social inequalities. Addressing gender discrimination requires implementing equitable policies, promoting gender diversity, and challenging cultural norms that perpetuate biases. Ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all genders involves education, legislative reforms, and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive regardless of their gender.

c) Oppression as a tyranny

         Oppression as a tyranny refers to the systematic and oppressive exercise of power by an authoritarian regime or leader. This form of tyranny involves the suppression of individual freedoms, denial of basic rights, and the imposition of harsh and often brutal controls over a population. Tyrannical oppression is characterized by:

1. Abuse of Power: Leaders or regimes wield their power to subjugate and exploit their citizens, often using fear and violence to maintain control.

2. Suppression of Dissent: Tyrannical regimes typically stifle any opposition through censorship, imprisonment, or execution of dissenters, thereby preventing any form of criticism or rebellion.

3. Violation of Human Rights: Basic human rights, such as freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and the right to a fair trial, are frequently violated under tyranny.

4. Propaganda and Manipulation: Tyrannical governments often use propaganda to manipulate public perception and justify their actions, creating a distorted version of reality that serves their interests.

5. Economic Exploitation: The regime may exploit the country's resources and labor for its own benefit, leaving the general population impoverished and disenfranchised.

6. Cultivation of Fear: A climate of fear is maintained through surveillance, intimidation, and arbitrary punishment, ensuring compliance and stifling resistance.

Tyranny can deeply impact a society by undermining its social fabric, eroding trust in institutions, and leading to long-term socio-political instability. Combating such oppression involves collective resistance, international pressure, and the promotion of democratic values and human rights.

d) Loss of freedom is a loss of identity/human dignity

         The loss of freedom often equates to a profound loss of identity and human dignity. Here’s how this connection manifests:

1. Suppression of Self-Expression: Freedom allows individuals to express their thoughts, beliefs, and creativity. When freedom is restricted, people cannot fully articulate or live out their true selves, leading to a loss of personal identity.

2. Erosion of Autonomy: Personal freedom includes the ability to make choices and control one's life. When individuals are deprived of this autonomy, they are reduced to mere subjects of others' will, eroding their sense of self-worth and dignity.

3. Deprivation of Basic Rights: Loss of freedom often means denial of fundamental human rights such as freedom of speech, movement, and assembly. This deprivation can lead to feelings of powerlessness and dehumanization, stripping individuals of their dignity.

4. Psychological Impact: The experience of oppression and lack of freedom can have severe psychological effects, including diminished self-esteem and self-worth. People may internalize these effects, leading to a diminished sense of personal identity.

5. Social Isolation: Freedom often fosters social connections and community engagement. Its loss can lead to isolation and estrangement, further diminishing one's sense of belonging and identity.

6. Suppression of Cultural Identity: In many cases, restrictions on freedom involve suppression of cultural practices and traditions. This erasure of cultural identity undermines individuals' connection to their heritage and sense of self.

7. Loss of Agency: When individuals cannot participate in decisions that affect their lives, they lose their agency and, consequently, their sense of personal responsibility and identity.

8. Human Dignity: Freedom is closely linked to the concept of human dignity, which involves respect for one's individuality and autonomy. Without freedom, the inherent dignity of individuals is compromised, reducing them to objects of control rather than subjects of respect.

In essence, freedom is integral to maintaining one's identity and dignity. When freedom is curtailed, it not only limits individual expression but also fundamentally undermines the very essence of what it means to be human.

 

Suggested Reading

• Long Walk To Freedom by Nelson Mandela

• The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank