Chapter 11 A Thing of Beauty Class 12 Flamingo English NCERT Summary
Chapter 11 A Thing of Beauty Class 12 Flamingo English NCERT Summary provide a comprehensive overview of the important concepts, theories, and key points covered in each chapter. The notes are designed to provide a quick and easy understanding of the chapter’s content, making it easier for students to grasp the main ideas and concepts.
Chapter 11 Class 12 Flamingo English NCERT Notes allows students to quickly review and revise the material before exams.
Chapter 11 A Thing of Beauty Class 12 Flamingo NCERT Notes
About the Chapter
In the poem “A Thing of Beauty” taken from John Keats’ “Endymion – a poetic romance,” the poet emphasizes the everlasting delight that a beautiful thing brings. He asserts that beauty possesses an eternal quality that never diminishes over time. Comparing it to a shady shelter, he suggests that a beautiful thing provides us with restful slumber filled with pleasant dreams, contributes to our well-being, and offers a sense of tranquility.
About the Poet
John Keats is a renowned British Romantic poet made the bold decision to abandon his surgical training and fully dedicate himself to the art of poetry. It is through his exceptional ability to perceive the world around him and articulate his emotions and ambitions through language that Keats interests and enchants his readers.
A Thing of Beauty Class 12 Flamingo English NCERT Summary
A thing of beauty is a joy forever
Its loveliness increases, it will never
Pass into nothingness; but will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing.
Word Meanings
- Bower – A shady place under the tree
According to the poet, beauty is everlasting and does not diminish over time. Instead, it becomes more bright as time passes. The poet sees beauty as a source of comfort and tranquility, comparing it to the shade of a beautiful tree where all creatures can find solace and experience good health. The poet views beauty as something that brings joy and serenity to all who encounter it.
Therefore, on every morrow, are we wreathing?
A flowery band to bind us to the earth,
Spite of despondence, of the inhuman dearth
Of noble natures, of the gloomy days,
Of all the unhealthy and o’er-darkened ways
Made for our searching: yes, in spite of all,
Some shape of beauty moves away the pall
From our dark spirits.
Word Meanings
- Morrow – The following day
- Wreathing – surround, encircle
- Despondence – depressed
- Gloomy – sad
The poet say that beauty is what gives us the motivation and inspiration to continue living each day. Even in the face of sadness and cruelty, it is the presence of beauty that keeps us going. Without beauty, the world would be filled with only cruel people and gloomy moments. However, it is the divine creation of beauty that helps us to overcome sadness and find joy in our hearts.
Such the sun, the moon,
Trees old, and young, sprouting a shady boon
For simple sheep; and such are daffodils
With the green world they live in; and clear rills
That for themselves a cooling covert make
‘Giants the hot season; the mid forest brake
Word Meanings
- Boon – blessing
- Rills – a small stream
- Brake – a process to slow down
The poet paints a vivid picture of the wonders of nature that exist on earth. From the radiant sun to the serene moon, the poet acknowledges the beauty and significance of these celestial bodies. Also, the poet highlights the importance of trees, which provide shelter and shade to all living beings. The vibrant flowers, specifically daffodils, are praised for their captivating beauty that brings joy to our lives. Lastly, the rivers are described as a source of coolness and refreshment during hot summers. Overall, these elements of nature are celebrated as blessings bestowed upon us by the earth itself enhancing our existence and providing us with endless beauty and comfort.
Rich with a sprinkling of fair musk-rose blooms;
And such too is the grandeur of the dooms
We have imagined for the mighty dead;
All lovely tales that we have heard or read;
An endless fountain of immortal drink,
Pouring unto us from the heaven’s brink
Word Meanings
- Grandeur – high rank or socially important
- Mighty – enormous
- Immortal – never dying
- Brink – edge
The poet begins by describing the beauty of musk roses and their delightful fragrance. They then transition to discussing the heroic acts of mighty warriors who sacrificed their lives for their countries or humanity. The poet believes that these beautiful things are gifts from God to all of us comparing them to nectar that gives us a reason to continue living despite the sorrows we face in life. These beauties are considered immortal and provide solace amidst life’s challenges.