PRISONER OF ZENDA

COMPLETE WITH PAST PAPERS

CHARACTERS
BURLESDON FAMILY
Rudolf Rassendyll:
An Englishman of 29 years, Younger brother of Lord Burlesdon, and brother in law of Lady
Burlesdon, a skilled horseman, a good shot, a competent swordsmen, well educated, independent
man who speaks English, German and French perfectly, adventure lover who considers
opportunities as possibilities.
Lord Burlesdon / Robert Rassendyll:
Lord of Burlesdon, Elder brother of Rudolf Rassendyll and a very active person in public affairs
Lady Burlesdon / Rose Robert Rassendyll:
Wife of Lord of Burlesdon and sister in law of Rudolf Rassendyll
FRIENDS
George Featherly:
Friend of Rudolf Rassendyll in Paris, Diplomat in the British Embassy at Paris
Bertram Bertrand:
Friend of Rudolf Rassendyll in Paris, Poet and Journalist in Critic, a newspaper in Paris, resident
of Paris
ELPHBERG FAMILY
Rudolf Elphberg:
King of Ruritania (to be), son of King Rudolf IV, Cousin and Fiancée of Princess Flavia, Half
Brother of Black Michael, Crown Prince of Ruritania
Black Michael, Duke of Strelsau:
Son of King Rudolf IV from a morganatic marriage, cousin of Princess Flavia and Half Brother
of Rudolf Elphberg, Duke of the State of Strelsau and owner of the Castle of Zenda
Princess Flavia:
Cousin and Fiancée of Rudolf Elphberg, immediate heir to the throne of Ruritania
KING’s MEN
Colonel Sapt:
Most experienced and faithful servant of the King Rudolf IV and the protector of the house of
Elphbergs
Fritz Von Tarlenheim:
Faithful servant of the King Rudolf IV as his attendant, distant relative of Count Stanislas Von
Tarlenheim
Countess Helga Von Strofzin:
Lady in waiting to Princess Flavia and beloved of Fritz Von Tarlenheim
Marshal Strakencz:
Commander in Chief of the Ruritanian Army
Madam Antoinette De Mauban:
A handsome and rich widow of France who is above 30, interested in Duke of Strelsau whereas
Bertram Bertrand was interested in her
MICHAEL’s MEN
The Six:
A group of six resolute and unscrupulous gentlemen in the service of Black Michael including
three Ruritanians named Lauengram, Krafstein and Rupert of Hentzau and three Foreigners
including De Gautet from France, Bersonin from Belgium and Detchard from England.
Rupert of Hentzau is by far the most daring and dangerous of the Six.
Johann:
Black Michael’s gamekeeper on the Zenda State
Max Holf:
Johann’s brother and Duke of Strelsau’s body servant
Josef:
One of King’ Rudolf’s domestic servants
Miscellaneous characters:
There are characters in the novel whose names are not told, the chancellor, the perfect of police,
affected young gentlemen in Princess Flavia’s house, the ten trustworthy gentlemen out of which
one who gets injured is known as Bernenstein, the old lady keeping the hotel in Zenda and her
two daughters, Johann’s mother who is presumed as Fraulein Holf, the brave doctor and the farm
girl.

PLOT AND STORY

The novel Prisoner of Zenda was written by Anthony Hope Hawkins. The whole story and its
romantic setting carry a remarkable degree of conviction. The story is skillfully plotted. The
friends of the king cannot act openly against his kidnappers without gravely risking his life and
disclosing that an impostor has been occupying the throne since the day of coronation. The
king’s enemies dare not expose imposture, for that would reveal their own treason. A fascinating
plot and counterplot springs out with tense and violent action from both sides. The author has
used hero to narrate the story of his adventure. Rudolf Rassendyll shares same ancestry as
Elphbergs. The story begins at his home where his sister-in-law objects to his wasteful and
carefree attitude and condemns his red hair and sharp, long straight nose. Rassendyll decides to
visit Ruritania secretly to attend and witness the Coronation ceremony of Rudolf V. He plans to
visit his friends George Featherly, British Ambassador in Paris, Bertram Bertrand, a Journalist
working with Critic and then to travel to Ruritania by train from Paris. He tells them that he
plans to visit Tyrol and Dresden. In Paris he comes to know that his friend Bertram is in love
with a fashionable French widow of 31 years named Madam De Mauban while she is inclined
towards Black Michael, the Duke of Strelsau. Rassendyll and Madam De Mauban both leave by
same train and when he drops at the Ruritanian border he sees her getting off too.
At immigration he comes to know that coronation Ceremony has been postponed as the king is in
Zenda on a hunting expedition arranged by his half brother Black Michael. He stays at Zenda, 50
miles away from Capital, in an Inn Kept owned by an old lady who has two daughters. All the
ladies desire Black Michael to become the king, as he is known to the people while Rudolf
Elphberg is relatively a stranger to the locals as he has spent most of life abroad. The King and
the Duke both wish to marry Princess Flavia. At the Inn-Kept he meets Johann, who is the
gamekeeper of Duke Michael, and through him, he comes to know that Black Michael owns
Castle of Zenda which is in forest of Zenda and King is staying at shooting lodge.
Next day, Rassendyll decides to leave for Strelsau on foot through the forest of Zenda, expecting
and longing to have a chance meeting with the King. On his way, he leans against a tree to take
rest and fell asleep. His sleeps breaks off with voices of Colonel Sapt and Fritz and in a brief
introduction he tells them about his family. King arrives at the spot and after getting acquainted
invites his distant cousin for dinner. Both the Cousins have remarkable resemblance and if Royal
and mustaches of Rudolf Rassendyll are shaven off, then no one could recognize if he was
Rudolf Rassendyll or Rudolf Elphberg.
At the dinner, Josef, a servant, presents the King with a wine bottle, a gift from Duke Michael,
which is drugged. Rudolf Elphberg consumes the whole bottle and falls in the trap of Black
Michael. Colonel Sapt, being most experienced and aware of the conspiring nature of Black
Michael, uses his head and persuades Rudolf Rassendyll to impersonate the King. Rudolf
Rassendyll knowing the dangers refuses but later agrees to help saving the throne and failing
Black Michael in his conspiracy. It is decided that Rassendyll will impersonate the king in
coronation and at late night they will come back to shooting lodge to collect the king. Rudolf
Rassendyll will return to England and Sapt will take King back to Strelsau without letting
anyone know.
Rassendyll is shaven and they leave for Strelsau earlier than it the programme. King is left with
Josef to be looked after. They arrive at Capital and take the advantage of surprise by successfully
attend the coronation. The public procession and trip through the old city wins him confidence
and at Cathedral, no one suspects the imposter king including Black Michael who is stunned to
see him. On other hand, his men kill Josef, kidnap and imprison real king at the Castle of Zenda.
The news is brought to him by Max Holf, brother of Johann and they ride to Zenda.
As decided, Colonel Sapt and Rassendyll ride to Zenda at night but shocked to learn that the
King is kidnapped while Josef is killed. They are attacked by Michael’s men and in the fight
Rassendyll’s hand gets hurt. He uses it as an excuse from signing the documents. Duke Michael
calls on the king but literally gets insulted. He also introduces three of his hirelings from “The
Six”, De Gautet, Bersonin and Detchard, to the king. The presence of the rest of the members of
The Six, at Castle of Zenda confirms that the King is kept in the Castle. There is a deadlock
between both the sides but one day an unknown writer writes a letter to Rudolf Rassendyll
signed as “A”.
The letter signed “A” demands Rudolf Rassendyll to come alone to a large house in Strelsau,
known as Summerhouse, owned by Madam De Mauban at midnight. The letter says that a well-
wisher of the king knows the truth of Rudolf, exact location of the king and wants to help
Rassendyll against Black Michael. Colonel Sapt smells a rat and forbade Rassendyll to go as it
might be a trap but Rassendyll insists to go. The letter is from Madam De Mauban.
He meets Madam De Mauban and she discloses that the letter was written on Black Michael’s
order. She reveals that three of the Six are coming to capture and kill Rudolf Rassendyll as Black
Michael intends to place him or Princess Flavia on the throne and marry her to become the king.
Madam De Mauban wishes to prevent his marriage so she is betraying Michael and helping
Rudolf Rassendyll. Detchard, De Gautet and Bersonin trap Rassendyll in the summerhouse and
offer him a large amount with safe conduct to the border, if he will leave Ruritania forthwith.
Rassendyll pretends to agree but as they open the door, he charges upon holding an iron-topped
tea-table. They fire but bullets didn’t harm Rassendyll. They are sprawling down the steps.
Rassendyll injured Detchard, escaped over the wall and once again failed Michael’s plan.
Colonel Sapt informs Rudolf Rassendyll about increasing discontent in city and public demand
for marrying Princess Flavia and if he is reluctant then Black Michael to marry Princess. Colonel
Sapt proposes a ball to be arranged. They insist Rassendyll, for the sake of king, to show public
affection. Rassendyll does so but when they are alone, he realizes that he is in love with Flavia.
He is about to reveal his identity but Sapt comes and prevents him. Now Rassendyll has to fight
his emotions and wicked temptation to let the king die, not to crush Michael, keep the throne for
himself and marry Flavia. His sense of honour prevents him from doing so and tells him what he
must do. He breaks to Sapt that they must leave Strelsau and try to rescue the king as soon as
possible. He warns Flavia of the danger of Michael, entrusts Commander in Chief, Marshal
Strakencz, with the task of protecting her and publically be announced that the king is going on a
hunting expedition.
Rassendyll, Sapt and Fritz along with ten trustworthy gentlemen travel to one of Fritz’s relatives,
about five miles from Zenda. These gentlemen are told that Michael has already made an attempt
on King’s life and has one of King’s friend imprisoned in Castle of Zenda. Only an hour after
arrival at the Chateau of Tarlenheim, a courtesy visit by the three of “The Six”, the Ruritanians,
Lauengram, Krafstein and Rupert of Hentzau, is paid. Rassendyll recalls of his visit and stay at
Inn kept in Zenda and pays a visit with Fritz, to the same, in evening. He persuades land lady’s
daughter to arrange a meeting with Johann at a spot outside Zenda. On their return, they are told
that one of ten gentlemen, rather like him in build, has been shot at and wounded by one of
Michael’s men.
Next day Rupert makes an offer of Million Crowns and safe conduct to the frontier from Black
Michael to Rassendyll which he refuses. When Rassendyll is about to mount his horse, Rupert in
agony, hurls a dagger towards him that injures him in shoulder. Rassendyll’s men are at a short
distance of thirty yards but Rupert escapes their fire and gallops away. The same night, Johann is
brought to him and is persuaded to disclose what he knows about the King and his location in
Castle of Zenda. He reveals that the king is imprisoned in a small room with one window close
to the surface of moat. The room has only one entrance which is from an inner room where three
of the Six are always on guard. If any attack will be made, the king would be murdered. A large
earthenware pipe has been constructed from the window of the king’s room till the surface of the
water outside. King’s body will be weighed, thrown through that pipe and sunk in the moat while
his murderers could escape through the same way. However, Michael intends to kill Rassendyll
first. The information given by Johann made Rassendyll and his friends realize that any
unplanned and improperly planned attack to rescue the king will cause him life.
Official bulletins were published to explain Rassendyll’s wound that he, the king, had been
injured in a hunting accident. The news made Princess Flavia worried and she rode to
Tarlenheim. Rassendyll is forced to stay in bed for two days due to the wound meanwhile a
report from Johann regarding the health of King made everyone worried. The King’s health was
breaking down because of his close confinement. Rassendyll decides to not to take further risk
and without a delay start attempts of rescue. At night they make a reconnaissance of the Castle,
Rassendyll swims across the moat and find the pipe, caught Max Holf sleeping in the boat, stabs
and kills him. He also heard a conversation of Detchard and wretched King. On their return they
encounter with Krafstein, Lauengram and Rupert in which Krafstein, Lauengram got killed but
so are four from Fritz’s party.
Deaths of the gentlemen cannot be concealed and it is announced that they died in a private
quarrel. The prefect of police also paid a visit, who at the request of British ambassador is
investigating the disappearance of Rudolf Rassendyll. The prefect has the information that Mr.
Rassendyll had travelled on the same train as Madam De Mauban, Madam De Mauban is at
Michael’s Castle and he fears that Michael, out of jealousy, may have kidnapped him.
Rassendyll, using his authority as king, instructs the prefect to leave the matter to him for the
next few days and return to Strelsau.
Rassendyll also meets Rupert in the street of Zenda but none dares attack as they are at a public
place. Rassendyll learns that Black Michael and Rupert have issues between and the apple of
discord is Madam De Mauban. Rupert makes an offer that they should combine to kill both the
Duke and King, keep Rassendyll on the throne, letting Rupert have Madam De Mauban.
Immediately Rassendyll receives a note, through Johann, from Madam De Mauban, begging to
be rescued from Michael’s men. Rassendyll is insisted to betrothal Princess Flavia in fortnight’s
time. On other hand, news comes from Johann regarding King’s health which if falling rapidly
that a physician has been hired. Rassendyll has ample information to plan a rescue attempt.
Johann has told that the survivors of The Six are at Castle to guard the king. Two (includes
Detchard and Bersonin) at night and two (Includes) Rupert of Hentzau and Gautet) by day, the
two off duty rest in a room on the floor above King’s cell. The door leading to these rooms is
locked and the keys are only with the four. Michael’s rooms are in the new part of the castle, just
across the moat from the King’s cell and near drawbridge. Madam De Mauban is locked in an
apartment in new castle, just by the drawbridge but with the door on the other side. Only the
Duke holds the keys to drawbridge which is drawn at night. Johann and five others sleep in the
entrance hall of new Castle and are armed with pikes only. Rassendyll with this information
draws an attack plan for next day. Rassendyll planned that at 2 am Johann will open the door of
new castle and Sapt will overpower the servants with strong party of men. At the same moment,
Madam De Mauban, acting upon Rassendyll’s letter, will scream for help as if Rupert had forced
her. Michael and his men will run to help her and Sapt will capture him alive. The drawbridge
will then be lowered, at that time Rupert and De Gautet will rush across the bridge. Rassendyll,
who is hiding in the moat with a small ladder, will get onto the bridge and kill Rupert and De
Gautet. In this way he will get the keys to the rooms where King is kept to save him.
Next night according to the plan both parties march towards the Castle, but the imagination turns
into reality when Rupert invades Madam De Mauban’s room in Michael telling him to go to old
castle before the drawbridge is drawn. Before one, Rupert swims across the drawbridge holding a
sword in his mouth unlocks the door and enters the old Castle. After half past one, Rassendyll
hear real cries of Madam De Mauban. Rassendyll gets up on gateway of old castle. Michael and
his men rush to Madam De Mauban’s room and get into a fight with Rupert who fights them
savagely. De Gautet peeps out of the gateway and stabbed by Rudolf. Rassendyll takes his keys
and makes his way into the room where Bersonin and Detchard are on guard who unbolt the door
and Rassendyll storms in the room. Bersonin gets killed but Detchard rushed into King’s room to
kill the king where the doctor fights him to protect the king but gets killed. Rassendyll enters,
fights Detchard who proves to be a better swordsman but kills Detchard. When he examines the
king, he hears drawbridge being drawn and when he rushes out, he sees Rupert fighting on
bridge with Michael’s servants and a woman crying that Black Michael has been killed by
Rupert. Sapt’s party breaks in at the far side of the Castle and determined to take revenge of
Michael’s death, Madam De Mauban aims fires at Rupert. Her first shot misses and while she
aims for second, Rupert jumps in the moat and swims away. Rassendyll jumps and swims in
pursuit of Rupert in the forest but due to being wounded cannot over take him. Rupert seizes a
horse from a farm girl and rides back to Rassendyll. The fight is continued till Rassendyll is
saved by Fritz and his party and to save his life, Rupert escapes from the scene. He collapses but
remains conscious till Frits reveals that the King is safe. Fritz and Sapt party stay out of new
Castle all night and are not allowed inside by Johann according to the plan. Johann gets wounded
between the fight of Michael and Rupert. Sapt and his party find dead bodies of Michael,
Bersonin, De Gautet and Detchard. Colonel Sapt puts out a story that Black Michael had
confined one of King’s friends at Zenda and now is dead. King is gravely wounded when he
went to rescue his friend from his illegal detention. Princess Flavia insists and rides to Zenda to
see the King. When she reaches the forest comes to know the truth as Rassendyll with help of
Fritz, reached to the edge of the forest by the road to the castle, when a farm girl sees him and
runs to Flavia to tell her that the king is wounded and lying in the bushes. Sapt and Rassendyll
have to disclose that Rassendyll is not the real king. Rassendyll has to be kept concealed until he
secretly leaves Ruritania. The king is grateful and Rassendyll has to make last painful meeting
with Princess Flavia to desert her forever. They agree that the interests of the kingdom are far
important and must be placed before their love. Sapt and Fritz escort Rassendyll to a station
across the frontier and bid him farewell with great affection, respect and honour. Rassendyll rests
in Tyrol and lets his friends know his whereabouts to prevent any further inquiries about him,
returns home and settles down to the quiet life of a country gentleman, broken only by an annual
visit to Dresden where his close friend and sole contact with his past adventure, Fritz, meets him.
Princess Flavia, who had sacrificed her love for the love of country, marries Rudolf Elphberg
and in this way the throne becomes secure and stronger than ever before. Rassendyll was offered
to become the attaché in Ruritania but he softly refuses without telling his sister in law Lady
Burlesdon or Sir Jacob Borrodaile the reason of his excuse. He writes all his adventure as a book
which he had never thought he will when he had made a false commitment with Lady Burlesdon
before the commencement of these events.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

IMPORTANT DIALOGUES:
1. “I wonder when in the world are you going to do anything, Rudolf”. These words are spoken
by: Rose
2. “I enjoy an enviable position. I am brother to Lord Burlesdon”. These words are spoken by:
Rudolf Rassendyll
3. “To a man of spirit, Opportunities are duties”. These words are spoken by: Rudolf
Rassendyll
4. “Before God, you are the finest Elphberg of them all. But I have eaten of the King’s bread
and I am King’s servant.” These words are spoken by: Colonel Sapt
5. “Whatever else I wear. This I will wear till I die and after”. These words are spoken by:
Princess Flavia
6. “Heaven doesn’t always make the right men kings.” These words are spoken by: Fritz
7. “Good families are generally worse than any others”. These words are spoken by: Rose
8. “You have got a charming travelling companion.” These words are spoken by: George
Fatherly
9. “A thousand crowns for a sight of brother Michael’s face when he sees a pair of us”. These
words are spoken by: Rudolf Elphberg
10. “There is none within ten miles, and a thousand doctors wouldn’t take him to Strelsau
today.” These words are spoken by: Colonel Sapt
11. “As a man grows old he believes in fate. Fate sent you here, fate sends you now to Strelsau.”
These words are spoken by: Colonel Sapt
12. “If he is red, he is right”. These words are spoken by: woman from cook-shop
13. “To the right our road, to the left Castle, each at eight miles”. These words are spoken by:
Colonel Sapt
14. “I must be found out.” These words are spoken by: Rudolf Rassendyll
15. “Say I am Christian or say I am jealous. My God! Shall I see him marry her?” These words
are spoken by: Madam De Mauban
16. “Au Revior, Rudolf Rassendyll”. These words are spoken by: Rupert of Hentzau
17. “A threat is more warning than most men get from me.” These words are spoken by:
Black Michael
18. “Black Michael will fall, like the dog he is.” These words are spoken by: Rupert of
Hentzau
19. “Our little Delilah will bring out Samson”. These words are spoken by: Rudolf
Rassendyll
20. “Our little Delilah will bring out Samson”. Here Delilah means Johann’s Fiancée
21. “Our little Delilah will bring out Samson”. Here Samson means Johann
INFORMATION ABOUT NOVEL AND NOVELIST:
22. Novel “The Prisoner of Zenda” was written in: 1893
23. Novel “The Prisoner of Zenda” is an artistic pen down of: Anthony Hope Hawkins
24. Novel “The Prisoner of Zenda” was published in: 1894
25. Sir Anthony Hope Hawkins was born in: 1863
26. Sir Anthony Hope Hawkins was born in: 1933
27. Sir Anthony Hope Hawkins was knighted in: 1918
28. Sir Anthony Hope has created a romantic story at a _________ degree. remarkable
RUDOLF RASSENDYLL AND FAMILY:
29. Rudolf Rassendyll is the _________ of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. hero
30. Rudolf Rassendyll belongs to: England
31. Rudolf Rassendyll is _________ years old. 29
32. The height of Rudolf Rassendyll was: six feet, two inches
33. Rudolf Rassendyll resembled King Elphberg in: physical features
34. The colour of Rassendyll’s hair was: red
35. Lord Burlesdon is the _________ of Rassendyll. brother
36. The real name of Lord Burlesdon is: Robert
37. Lord Burlesdon is Rassendyll’s _________ brother. elder
38. The name of Rassendyll’s sister in law is: Rose Robert Rassendyll
39. To play a good knife and fork was the custom of: Rassendyll
40. George Fatherly is a diplomat in the British Embassy in: Paris
41. Bartram Bertrand is a poet and: journalist
42. Bartram Bertrand works with: newspaper named Critic
43. Bertram Bertrand was interested in: Antoinette De Mauban
44. Dresden was famous for its: picture galleries
45. Duration of Rassendyll’s stay in Ruritania was: two months
RURITANIA AND ELPHBERG FAMILY:
46. Ruritania is a/an _________ country. imaginary
47. King Rudolf was the _________ king of Elphberg family: fifth
48. Rudolf Elphberg is the _________ in the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. King of Ruritania
49. Princess Flavia is the _________ of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. heroine
50. Princess Flavia is immediate _________ to the throne. heir
51. Black Michael is the _________ of previous king from his morganatic marriage. son
52. Black Michael is the _________ of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. villain
53. Princess Flavia is _________ of Rudolf Elphberg. cousin and fiancée
54. Black Michael is _________ of Rudolf Elphberg. half brother
55. After the death of Rudolf Elphberg the heir to the throne of Ruritania would be: Princess
Flavia
56. “Strelsua” is the _________of Ruritania. Capital
57. Zenda was a small: town
58. “Zenda” is a small town about _________ miles away from the Capital: fifty
59. “Zenda” is a small town about _________ miles away from the border of Ruritania. ten
60. The crown Prince of Ruritania is: Rudolf Elphberg
61. Black Michael wants to marry _________ to get the throne. Princess Flavia
62. King’s face was slightly _________ than Rassendyll. flashier
63. The Coronation Ceremony lasted for: one hour
64. The perfect of Police came to Zenda to look for: Rudolf Rassendyll
THE SIX
65. Black Michael had hired _________ men to dethrone King Elphberg. six
66. Out of “The Six” _________ were Ruritanians. three
67. Out of “The Six” _________ were Ruritanians. three
68. De Gautet was: French
69. Bersonin was: Belgian
70. Detchard was: English
71. Lauengram was: Ruritanian
72. Krafstein was: Ruritanian
73. Rupert of Hentzau was: Ruritanian
74. Rupert of Hentzau was the most daring and _________ of the six. Dangerous
75. Detchard was killed by: Rudolf Rassendyll
76. Max Holf was killed by: Fritz
77. Fritz was interested in: Lady Helga
78. Rupert was fond of: Madam De Mauban
79. King Elphberg was injured by: Detchard
80. The number of killed in the incident at Shooting lodge were: three
81. Black Michael was killed by: Rupert of Hentzau
82. _________ attacked and injured Rassendyll. Rupert
83. Rupert attacked Rassendyll with a: dagger
84. Out of “The Six” ruffians of Black Michael _________ were foreigners. three
85. To protect himself at the Summer House, Rassendyll used a: tea-table
86. Rassendyll proves himself to be a better _________ than Rudolf Elphberg. king
87. Duke Michael plays the role of a/an _________ in the novel “Prisoner of Zenda”. villain
88. Rassendyll and Black Michael meet each other first time in / at the: Cathedral
89. In the Summer House, Black Michael’s men offer Rassendyll _________ and safe return.
50,000 Pounds
90. The second offer from Black Michael for Rassendyll to leave Ruritania was brought the safe
passage to the frontier and an amount of: 10, 00, 000 Pounds
91. The second offer from Black Michael for Rassendyll to leave Ruritania was brought by:
Rupert of Hentzau
92. Rupert snatched a horse from a farm: girl
93. Rassendyll was trapped in summerhouse by three of the six, De Gautet, Bersonin and:
Detchard
94. They fired their pistols but Rassendyll defended himself with: iron-topped tea-table
95. At Summerhouse, Rudolf Rassendyll injured: Detchard
CASTLE OF ZENDA
96. The Duke of Strelsua is: Black Michael
97. The Prisoner in the Castle of Zenda is: Rudolf Elphberg
98. Black Michael is the _________ of the Castle of Zenda. owner
99. King Elphberg was imprisoned in: old Castle
100.The old and new portions of the castle of Zenda were connected by a: drawbridge
101. A _________ is a deep wide ditch that is dug around a castle and filled with water to protect
it from enemies. moat
102. “The Ladder of Jacob” is a: pipe
103. Rassendyll tried to survey the Castle of Zenda first time: alone
EVENTS and CHARACTERS
104. Rudolf Rassendyll meets Antoinette De Mauban at: railway station
105. Antoinette De Mauban was going to: Strelsau
106. Antoinette De Mauban comes from: France
107. Antoinette De Mauban is about _________ years old. 30
108. Antoinette De Mauban is a: French widow
109. Rudolf observed that Madam Mauban was a year or two over: thirty
110. Rudolf made his mind to stop at: Zenda
111. Rassendyll sent his luggage directly to: Strelsau
112. _________ gave Rudolf Rassendyll the address of Castle. Johann
113. In Zenda, Rassendyll stayed in: Inn Kept
114. Johann was Duke Michael’s _________ on the State of Zenda. game keeper
115. Rassendyll walked in the forest of Zenda for an: hour
116. Colonel Sapt and Fritz Von Tarlenheim served Rudolf Elphberg as: aid-de-camp
117.When Fritz and Sapt met Rassendyll first time, both wore shooting costumes and were
carrying guns
118. Rudolf Rassendyll was awaken from his sleep in the forest of Zenda by: Fritz and Sapt
119. This person made arrangement for Rudolf Rassendyll’s stay in Zenda: Johann
120. This person was left behind to look after King at shooting lodge in Zenda: Joseph
121. Joseph was a _________ to King Elphberg. domestic servant
122.Countess of Helga was lady-in-waiting to: Princess Flavia
123. Princess Flavia warned Rassendyll about: Black Michael
124. On the coronation day it was actually _________ who was crowned as the King of
Ruritania: Rudolf Rassendyll
125. The Coronation Ceremony was scheduled on: Wednesday
126. Rassendyll was coroneted in the/ at the: Cathedral
127. Max Holf was _________ to Johann. Brother
128. This person provided internal information of the castle to Rassendyll: Johann
129. During his first adventure to the Castle of Zenda Rudolf Rassendyll killed: Max Holf
130. The letter through which Rassendyll was invited to the Summer House was written by:
Antoinette De Mauban
131. Marshal Strakencz was _________ of the Ruritanian Army. Commander in Chief
132. _________ impersonated Rudolf Elphberg. Rudolf Rassendyll
133. _________ betrayed Black Michael and helped Rassendyll. Madam de Mauban
134. Rudolf Rassendyll arranged a _________ for Princess Flavia. Ball
135. In Ball, Rudolf Rassendyll presented Princess Flavia a: rose
136. Princess Flavia wore Rassendyll’s _________ as his memory: ring
137. Princess Flavia did not leave Ruritania with Rudolf Rassendyll because: she was
bound by honour and responsibilities.
138. Rudolf and Princess agreed that the interests of the kingdom must be placed before their:
love
139. Rupert of Hentzau had an interview with Rassendyll in the ground of the: Tarlenheim state
140. Madam De Mauban fires a revolver at: Rupert of Hentzau
141. Before the leaving on his dangerous mission, Rudolf Rassendyll entrusted Marshal with the
task of guarding: Princess Flavia
142. The anonymous letter that was sent to the king invited him to come to:summerhouse
143. At the summerhouse, Madam De Mauban informed Rassendyll about: danger to his life
144. If an attack was made on the Castle of Zenda, Michael planned: to kill the king
145. The body of the king was orders to be thrown in the moat through: pipe
PAST PAPERS: SCIENCE AND COMMERCE (2017-2009)
MCQs
2017-Com
Ruritania is: an imaginary country
2017-Com
Rassendyll says to Michael, “I was playing with a Mongrel dog”. It means: dog of mixed breed
2017-Com
“God save the King” was whispered by: Sapt
2016-Com
Fritz Von Tarlenheim was in love with: Countess Helga
2017-Sc, 2015-Sc, 2012-Com-Pvt
The next heir to the throne of Ruritania is: Princess Flavia
2017-Com
The next heir to the throne is: Princess Flavia
2010-Com
Cousin of the King and immediate heir to the Throne of Ruritania was: Princess Flavia
2016-Sc, 2012-Com-Reg, 2012-Supp
The Coronation Ceremony took place on: Wednesday
2014-Com-Pvt
The Coronation Ceremony of King Rudolf takes place in: Strelsau
2016-Sc, 2014-Com-Reg, 2013-Com-Reg
The old and the new portions of the Castle of Zenda were connected by: drawbridge
2013-Com-Reg
Out of the Six hirelings of Black Michael, the three Ruritanians are Lauengram, Krafstein and:
Rupert of Hentzau
2015-Sc
Duke Michael was killed by: Rupert of Hentzau
2011-Com-Reg, 2011-Com-Pvt
Black Michael was killed by: Rupert of Hentzau
2015-Sc
Rudolf Elphberg was Princess Flavia’s: cousin
2015-Sc
The woman who sacrificed her love for the sake of her country was: Princess Flavia
2011-Com-Reg
For the sake of country, Princess Flavia sacrificed her: love
2017-Supply
The most daring and dangerous of the Six is: Rupert of Hentzau
2017-Com
The most dangerous of the Black Michael’s six was: Rupert of Hentzau
2015-Com
The most daring and dangerous of Michael’s Six is: Rupert of Hentzau
2013-Sc
The most daring and dangerous of the Six is: Rupert of Hentzau
2013-Com-Pvt
The most dangerous of the six followers of Black Michael is: Rupert of Hentzau
2010-Com
By far the most dangerous and daring of ‘The Six’ is: Rupert of Hentzau
2015-Sc, 2014-Com-Reg, 2013-Sc
In the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda” Jacob’s ladder was actually a: pipe
2012-Com-Pvt
The Jacob’s ladder was a: pipe
2014-Sc
Jacob’s ladder was connecting: New and Old Castles of Zenda
2014-Com-Reg
Madam De Mauban wrote a letter at the command of Black Michael to: Rudolf Rassendyll
2013-Sc
Madam De Mauban wrote a letter to Rudolf Rassendyll at the command of: Black Michael
2011-Com-Reg
Mauban wrote a letter to Rassendyll on the order of: Black Michael
2016-Com, 2015-Sc, 2014-Com-Reg
Marshal Strakencz was: Commander in Chief
2015-Sc
“You have borne yourself as a wise king and a brave man” was stated by: Marshal Strakencz
2014-Sc, 2014-Com-Reg, 2012-Com-Reg
Black Michael was the Duke of: Strelsau
2014-Sc
Antoinette De Mauban was liked by: Rupert of Hentzau
2013-Com-Reg
Rupert of Hentzau was mad after: Madam De Mauban
2012-Com-Pvt
Fritz Von Tarlenheim was the: King’s attendant
2012-Com-Pvt
This line ‘Heaven doesn’t always make the right man king’ is said by: Fritz
2011-Com-Pvt
“Heaven does not always make the right men king” is said by: Fritz
2014-Sc
Through the novel “The Prisoner Of Zenda”, Anthony Hope conveys the message that:
honour is superior to love.
2014-Com-Pvt
The man imprisoned in the Castle of Zenda was: Rudolf Elphberg
2013-Com-Reg
To dethrone King Elphberg, Black Michael hired the services of the gang of: The Six
2013-Com-Pvt
The throne of Ruritania was saved by the wisdom and loyalty of: Sapt
2014-Com-Reg
Due to the jealousy of Princess Flavia, Black Michael was betrayed by: Madam De Mauban
2012-Com-Reg
Madam De Mauban betrayed: Black Michael
2012-Com-Pvt
Madame de Mauban wanted to marry: Duke Michael
2014-Com-Pvt
Lady Burlesdon was the sister-in-law of: Rudolf Rassendyll
2012-Com-Reg
The name of sister in law or Rassendyll is: Rose
2010-Com
To a man spirit my dear Rose, ‘Opportunities’ are: possibilities
2017-Supply, 2012-Com-Reg
In the tea-table incident, Rassendyll used the table to: protect himself
2011-Com-Reg
In the Summerhouse for his defense Rassendyll used a: tea-table
2012-Com-Pvt
The main villain of ‘The Prisoner of Zenda’ is: Duke Michael
2016-Sc
The Language of Ruritania was: German
“Ball” as referred to in The Prisoner of Zenda means: Dance Party
2016-Sc
Lauengram was a: Ruritanian
2016-Com
The Prisoner of Zenda in the novel is: Rudolf Elphberg
2014-Com-Reg
Ruritania is an imaginary country in: Central Europe
2014-Com-Pvt
The Prisoner of Zenda is rightly called a: melodrama / Romantic
2013-Com-Reg
The Prisoner of Zenda is written by: Sir Anthony Hope
2013-Com-Reg
Bertram Bertrand is a poet and a: journalist
2013-Com-Pvt
The King and the Duke both wish to marry: Princess Flavia
2013-Com-Pvt
The hero in the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda” is: Rudolf Rassendyll
2012-Sc
Lord Burlesdon was the brother of: Rudolf Rassendyll
2012-Sc
The group called “the Six” refers to: Lawless murderers
2012-Com-Pvt
Rudolf Rassendyll belonged to: England
2017-Supply, 2012-Com-Pvt
Rudolf Rassendyll was aged: 29
2011-Com-Reg
There was a close resemblance between Rassendyll and: Rudolf Elphberg
2011-Com-Reg
The capital of Ruritania was: Strelsau
2010-Com
Sir Jacob has to have an embassy in six months and Robert is sure that he will take his brother as
an: attaché
Supplementary 2012:
The man of Ruritanian Army chief in the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda” is: Strakencz
The bodyguards of King Elphberg were Col. Sapt and: Fritz
‘I can’t kill a woman whom I liked’, The speaker of these words in novel “Prisoner of Zenda” is:
Michael
King Rudolf Elphberg was imprisoned in the room at Zenda in: Old Castle
Madam De Mauban is a rich lady from: France
 SHORT-ANSWER QUESTIONS (with Past Papers)
Q: 01. The Prisoner of Zenda is a novel of adventure. Discuss (2006)
Ans: Sir Anthony Hope Hawkins has created a combination of adventure, melodrama and
romance in “The Prisoner of Zenda”.
Plot: The plot is based upon the political challenges in an imaginary state of Ruritania, situated
in Central Europe, for the throne and the Princess, which are caused by the death of King Rudolf
IV.
Theme: The only and legal heir to the throne is Princess Flavia. Rudolf Elphberg, the real son of
king, is her fiancé. However, Black Michael, a son from second and morganatic marriage of the
late king, also wishes to get the throne as he is far more popular than his brother Rudolf who had
spent a big time of his life abroad.
Story: Black Michael made a devilish and dangerous plan to drug Rudolf Elphberg and seize the
throne for himself but Colonel Sapt, with the help of a stranger and distant cousin of Elphbergs,
Rudolf Rassendyll, an Englishman, snatches away this chance from him. Black Michael’s men
kidnap and imprison King in the castle of Zenda. Both parties, though knowing the realities of
each other neither, do not dare to speak of the truth to defend their schemes i.e. Black Michael’s
scheme to kill insensible king and take over the throne and King’s party to free the real King and
place him at his rightful place.

Q: 02. Anthony Hope has drawn a free vivid picture of late 17th Century European people
with Palace intrigues and unaware subjects in his novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. Discuss.
Ans: It is true that Anthony Hope has drawn a free vivid picture of late 17th Century European
people with vivid picture of Palace intrigues and unaware subjects in his novel “The Prisoner of
Zenda”. Rudolf Rassendyll, a young aristocratic family member goes on a tour to Ruritania, an
imaginary state and meets the future King in the forest of Zenda. The king invites him to supper,
drinks too much and gets unconscious thus, both of the loyal servants of King, impersonate him
due to his resemblance with the king. This gives a birth to all the incidents, palace intrigues,
adventures and romantic touch to the novel.

Q: 03. How do we learn Rassendyll’s connection with the Elphbergs?

Ans: The Novel begins with the description of a very rich family “The Rassendylls” in England.
They are artisans, the elder son of the family “Robert Rassendyll” is Lord of Burlesdon and
younger son “Rudolf Rassendyll” is highly educated, perfect speaker of different languages,
good shot and a competent swordsman, likes to travel and adventure. More than two centuries
ago, there had been a scandal in the family as during his stay in England, a young prince from
the Elphbergs, had developed illicit relationship with the Countess Amelia who belonged to
“The Rassendylls”. It was due to the legacy of sin of that young prince that “The Rassendylls”
always had sharp noses, blue eyes and red hairs like the Elphbergs since then.

Q: 04. “You are nine and twenty and you have done nothing.” To whom does Lady Rose
state and what does she mean by the above remark? (2013-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Lady Rose is addressing Rudolf Rassendyll in this statement. She is trying to express the
necessity of taking up some permanent employment as he has turned twenty nine and yet he is
only interested in adventure, wandering and hunting only.
Q: 05. State three qualities of Rudolf Rassendyll. (2017-Com) OR
Q: Highlight some sterling qualities of Rudolf Rassendyll as a Victorian hero. (2015-Com)
OR
Q: Rassendyll is the real King. Comment. (2014-Sc)
Ans: The quote “Before God, You are the finest Elphberg of them all”, affirms that Rudolf
Rassendyll is the real King. He appears to be a typical hero of romance and adventure besides
being brave, gallant and man of upright character. He is such a person who possesses
multifarious qualities of heroism that put in him a spirit to experience adventures. Sapt makes a
quite worth admiring decision by choosing him to save the throne of Ruritania because
Rassendyll fits his decisions and never lets him down. He not only helps Sapt fully in the
restoration but also remains anxious for the liberation of the real King. On the other hand he
plays the role of King till his level best and sacrifices his own desires and wishes to stand the
dignity of his words. Since the acceptance to impersonate the king to save throne till the end
when he faces the painful departure from his love “Princess Flavia” knowing that she will marry
Rudolf Elphberg for the sake of her country and people, Rudolf showed that every inch of him
was made of noble blood and he was brought up like a King.

Q: 06. Who deserves to be the king of Ruritania more and why?

Q: Who deserves to be the rightful King of Ruritania Elphberg or Rassendyll? State with
reasons (2013-Com-Reg) OR
Q: What were the main differences between both Rudolf Rassendyll and Rudolf Elphberg?
OR
Q: Compare two Rudolf’s briefly. OR
Q: Give a comparison between Elphberg and Rassendyll. (2014-Sc)
Ans: Both the cousins resemble physically but yet have differences like different mental
approach, habits and traits.

1. Rudolf Rassendyll is an English Aristocrat whereas Elphberg is a European Crown

Prince.
2. Rudolf Rassendyll is shrewd, straight forward and proves discreet whereas Rudolf
Elphberg is indiscreet.
3. Rudolf Rassendyll is silent and reserved natured whereas Rudolf Elphberg is careless and
pleasure seeking person.
4. Rudolf Rassendyll is a brave, courageous, challenging and full of spirit of adventure
whereas Rudolf Elphberg is weak, unchallenging and a shallow person.
5. Rudolf Rassendyll posses the quality of adaptability whereas Rudolf Elphberg lacks it.
6. Rudolf Rassendyll posses genius, active mind and free heart whereas Rudolf Elphberg
has no genius but only a good friend.
OR (PARAGRAPH FORMAT)
Ans: Legally Rudolf Rassendyll doesn’t deserve to be the king as he is an Englishman, a
foreigner in Ruritania and doesn’t classify to be a King. However he possesses inborn qualities
of leadership which weigh heavily in his favour. He is enterprising, accepts the responsibility to
step into the king’s shoes and becomes the imposter of King and plays that role admirably.
Rudolf Elphberg being the heir to the throne of Ruritania has the right to be King though he lacks
the qualities of a King. He is easy going, careless and lacks in leadership qualities as he loves
wine, women and music. He takes kingship rather lightly, while Rudolf Rassendyll is bold and
courageous at the right time. His conduct is most unbecoming for a king which makes him
undeserving to be a king.

Q: 07. Do you consider Rudolf Elphberg the best king of Ruritania? Justify your answer
with reason. (2011- Com-Reg)
Ans: No, He wasn’t a better choice to be a King as the Throne was totally endangered by the
careless attitude of the real king. It was sheer chance for the Black Michael to capture the throne.
Rudolf Elphberg being the heir to the throne of Ruritania has the right to be King though he lacks
the qualities of a King. He is easy going, careless and lacks in leadership qualities as he loves
wine, women and music. He takes kingship rather lightly, while Rudolf Rassendyll is bold and
courageous at the right time. His conduct is most unbecoming for a king which makes him
undeserving to be a king. He also drinks the wine gifted by his wicked brother though it is well
known that Black Michael intends to get through the access to the throne and wants to marry
Princess Flavia but Elphberg doesn’t care about all these facts.

Q: 08. What was the importance of the first meeting of the hero with the King Rudolf and
his most loyal attendants? OR
Q: How and where do the two Rudolfs meet first time? (2017-Com)
Q: Narrate the first meeting that took place between Rudolf Rassendyll and Rudolf
Elphberg. (2011- Supplementary)
Ans: The first chance meeting of the hero with the king (both Rudolfs) and his most loyal
attendants were of vital and significant importance in the novel. They met in a forest near Zenda
just a day before the coronation. This was a meeting which shocked King Rudolf because he saw
a person who resembled him very much. The king was amused to know distant relation with
Rassendyll and took him to an informal supper where they ate and drank together with some
delightful conversation. There King Rudolf drank a rare old wine gifted by Michael which was
actually drugged. Hadn’t Rudolf Rassendyll met them all, Black Michael would surely have
captured the throne in absence of the King Elphberg.

Q: 09. Discuss the points of resemblances between both Rudolfs.

Ans: The Writer has created artistically amazing resemblances between both the Rudolfs as both
have similar physical features such as red hair and long nose. Moreover both have same stature
and built as they are distant relatives. It was like hide one and bring forth the other in order to
convince the people that he was the real king of Ruritania.

Q: 10. What part does the Castle of Zenda play in the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”?
Ans: The Castle of Zenda plays a very significant and important role in the novel “The Prisoner
of Zenda”. In fact the title says it all because the real adventure, thrill and action begins when the
King, Rudolf Elphberg, is imprisoned in the castle of Zenda and Rudolf Rassendyll, Colonel
Sapt and their faithful companions struggle to free the king by attempting and attacking Castel
again and again till they succeed.

Q: 11. Describe morganatic marriage with particular reference to the Prisoner of Zenda.
(2013-Com-Reg)
Ans: A marriage in which the spouse belonging to lower rank nor any children have any claim to
the possessions or tile of the spouse of higher rank in European royalty, is termed as morganatic
marriage. Black Michael is the elder / half brother of King Rudolf Elphberg. He is the late king’s
son from a morganatic marriage. Since he is not from the royal family, he could not become
King of Ruritania.

Q: 12. How does King’s weakness put him in danger? OR

Q: Describe the careless attitude of the King Elphberg?
Q: How much was the throne endangered by the careless attitude of the real king- Rudolf
Elphberg?
Ans: Rudolf Elphberg was addicted to drink so his brother Black Michael sent him a drugged
wine bottle which he drank and got unconscious. The Throne was totally endangered by the
careless attitude of the real king. His brother “Black Michael” had a plan to exploit his drinking
habit, kidnap and kill the king to take over the throne and get married to Princess Flavia and
King’s weakness to drink had made it possible for Black Michael to take advantage and carry on
with his plan. It was sheer chance for the Black Michael to capture the throne. One of the most
significant signs of Elphberg’s careless attitude is that he doesn’t hesitate in getting drunk just a
day before his coronation. He does not care even for the coronation and drinks excessively. He
also drinks the wine gifted by his wicked brother though it is well known that Black Michael
intends to get through the access to the throne and wants to marry Princess Flavia but Elphberg
doesn’t care about all these facts. Shortly, it is all because of his carelessness that Black Michael
gets a chance to hatch a devilish plan by kidnapping him.

Q: 13. Why is Black Michael not regarded as a suitable person to be the king of Ruritania?
Ans: To be King, one should be morally upright and noble in character which Black Michael
lacks. Black Michael is the elder brother of King Rudolf Elphberg. He is the late king’s son, a
result of morganatic marriage. Since he is not from the royal family, he could not become King
of Ruritania. Apart this reason, he isn’t regarded as a suitable person to become King because he
is a villain, mean, coward, crafty and has devilish nature. Hence, such a person is most
unsuitable to be King. Colonel Sapt feels that if Black Michael will become King, he will murder
King Rudolf Elphberg. His friendship and contacts with criminals and ruffians also makes him
unsuitable for the kingship.

Q: 14. What plan did Duke Michael make to prevent King Rudolf Elphberg from
attending the coronation?
Ans: Black Michael is determined to ascend to the throne of Ruritania by fair or foul means, for
which he is ineligible. So he hatches a plan to prevent King Rudolf Elphberg from attending his
coronation ceremony. He knows that his brother is a careless and a happy go lucky sort of
fellow, who loves alcohol and attending hunting expedites etc. so, he invites him to his state
“Zenda” for a dinner at the shooting lodge. After the dinner Black Michael knowing his brother’s
weakness, sends him a drugged rare wine bottle. King consumes this drugged wine and becomes
unconscious. This was Black Michael’s plan to make him unconscious for a long time that he
may not be able to attend his own coronation but his plans were made soar as Col. Sapt
persuaded Rudolf Rassendyll, the king’s look alike, to become king.

Q: 15. Why did Black Michael kidnap the king?

Ans: Black Michael wanted to be in King’s shoes. He wanted to get rid of the king by killing
him and was the Duke of Strelsau and half brother of King Elphberg. He kidnapped the king so
that he could disgrace him in front of his subjects and people of Ruritania by disclosing that he
was a drunkard. He wanted to destroy the reputation of Rudolf Elphberg by proving that he was
ineligible to become king and thus he could easily get to the throne by proving himself more
capable of being a king.
Q: 16. Duke Michael in spite of all-out efforts could not become the king of Ruritania.
Why? OR
Q: Why could Duke Michael not succeed in his conspiracy to become the King of
Ruritania?
Ans: Duke Michael couldn’t succeed in his evil intentions and the conspiracy to become the king
of Ruritania in spite of all out efforts because luck favoured King Elphberg and sent Rudolf
Rassendyll to impersonate him. He resembled the real king and as the loyal servants of King
were aware of Black Michael’s evil nature and intrigues, they compelled and convinced
Rassendyll to impersonate the King. It was bad luck on Michael’s part and the coronation along
with all rituals rook place smoothly.

Q: 17. Why did Black Michael not kill the King?

Ans: Rassendyll’s impersonation plays a major part in saving the life of real king. If Black
Michael killed Rudolf Elphberg then it was impossible for him to prove Rudolf Rassendyll as an
imposter. Therefore, to keep his own guilt and crime secret, he is forced to keep the king alive
and not to kill him. It is also due to this reason that he puts his all efforts in killing Rudolf
Rassendyll first and then to get rid of the real King.

Q: 18. Why was Rudolf Rassendyll reluctant to impersonate the King Elphberg?
Ans: When Colonel Sapt and Fritz offered Rudolf Rassendyll to impersonate the King he
becomes reluctant and confused. He is not ready to take the risk in a foreign country whose
people, culture and routine are stranger to him. He suggested calling a doctor who can bring the
king to consciousness. At first he resists but the devotion and sincerity of Colonel Sapt
compelled him to accept the challenge and impersonate the king at last.

Q: 19. How does Colonel Sapt convince Rudolf Rassendyll to play the role of the king for
the coronation ceremony? (2012-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Colonel Sapt persuades Rassendyll to impersonate the king because he knows quite well
that Black Michael will seize the throne. On the morning of Coronation, when King’s loyal
attendants, Colonel Sapt and Fritz, found him insensible and utterly unable to attend his own
coronation, Sapt made a plan for Rassendyll’s impersonation in the coronation ceremony.
Colonel Sapt decided to frustrate Michael’s plot by keeping Rassendyll on the throne until the
real King was rescued. Colonel Sapt says “Fate sent you to here. Fate sends you now to
Strelsau”. He breaks upon Rassendyll that if the King did not keep his appointment today, he will
either sleep in jail or in his grave. He added that half of the Strelsau is already in favour of
Michael and if the King failed to attend his coronation then it will be a piece of cake for Michael
to capture the throne. Rudolf pictures himself as the King and enjoys the feeling to finally agree
to impersonate the king.
Q: 20. How and why Rudolf Rassendyll was made the King of Ruritania?
Q: What were the circumstances that led Rassendyll to impersonate the king? (2016-Com)
Q: Why was Rassendyll forced to impersonate the King of Ruritania? (2015-Sc) OR
Q: What events led Rudolf Rassendyll to act as the King of Ruritania? (2014-Com-Reg),
(2012- Com-Pvt) OR
Q: Why does Rudolf Rassendyll disguise himself as Rudolf Elphberg? (2010-Sc)
Ans: Rudolf Rassendyll resembled the king of Ruritania because of a common ancestry. During
his visit to Ruritania to attend the coronation ceremony of Rudolf Elphberg, by chance, he met
the king in the forest of Zenda. King invited his cousin on an informal supper and drank wine
sent by Michael as a gift. As the wine was drugged, the King became insensible and Colonel
Sapt persuaded Rudolf Rassendyll to impersonate the king at the coronation and save the throne
from Michael’s devilish intentions.

Q: 21. What role does Colonel Sapt play in the novel?

Ans: Colonel Sapt plays a very significant role in the novel. He is one of the most devoted
followers and personal attendant of the real king. He is the major character who prevents the
throne from the devilish plans of Black Michael. He is the most experienced, senior and
intelligent character of the novel that persuades Rassendyll to impersonate the king because he
knows quite well that Black Michael will seize the throne. He is the strongest man and a trusting
advisor for the king and for the politics of Ruritania. Colonel Sapt meets with Rassendyll in the
forest near Castle of Zenda for the first time. He is a brave man whose gallantry keeps him
motivated for taking personal risks. He shows great valour on all events and occasions. Sapt is
very loyal to the king and serves the throne with dedication and faith.

Q: 22. Describe the efforts taken by Col Sapt to save Ruritanian Throne. (2015-
Com) OR
Q: Give a brief description of the loyalty and wisdom of Colonel Sapt. (2011-Com-Pvt) OR
Q: Colonel Sapt is the real protector of the House of Elphberg. Justify the statement. (2014,
2013-Sc)
Ans: Colonel Sapt plays a very significant role in the novel. He is one of the most devoted
followers and personal attendant of the real king. He is the major character who prevents the
throne from the devilish plans of Black Michael. He is the most experienced, senior and
intelligent character of the novel that persuades Rassendyll to impersonate the king because he
knows quite well that Black Michael will seize the throne. He is the strongest man and a trusting
advisor for the king and for the politics of Ruritania. Colonel Sapt meets with Rassendyll in the
forest near Castle of Zenda for the first time. On the morning of Coronation, when King’s loyal
attendants, Colonel Sapt and Fritz, found him insensible and utterly unable to attend his own
coronation, Sapt made a plan for Rassendyll’s impersonation in the coronation ceremony.
Colonel Sapt decided to frustrate Michael’s plot by keeping Rassendyll on the throne until the
real King was rescued. He shows great valour on all events and occasions. Sapt is very loyal to
the king and serves the throne with dedication and faith. He is a brave man whose gallantry
keeps him motivated for taking personal risk as the real protector of the House of Elphberg.
He is a brave man whose gallantry keeps him motivated for taking personal risks. He shows
great valour on all events and occasions. He supports Rassendyll as a mentor and guides him at
every event and occasion. He not only serves the throne but also keeps Princess Flavia safe from
the reach of Black Michael and reveals the real story at the end of the novel to justify his actions
to King and Princess. Sapt is very loyal to the king and serves the throne with dedication and
faith.
Q: 23. How did wise Sapt face the critical situation to save the throne when King Rudolf
Elphberg had fainted by drinking the drugged wine? OR
Ans: Col. Sapt was a very intelligent and experienced army officer and the personal body guard
of King Rudolf who had the duty to protect King and his throne. He proved his loyalty and
sharpness of mind in that critical situation when king got fainted by drinking the drugged wine
sent by Black Michael. He showed remarkable wisdom and presence of mind and quickly
decided to take advantage of Rassendyll’s resemblance with the King. He convicted him to
impersonate the king at the coronation. Rassendyll with help and guidance of Colonel Sapt,
displayed great heroism and courage at the coronation and consequently, the villain and traitor,
Duke Michael failed to capture the throne of Ruritania.

Q: 24. How Colonel Sapt frustrated Michael’s plan to seize the throne for himself?
Ans: On the morning of Coronation, when King’s loyal attendants, Colonel Sapt and Fritz, found
him insensible and utterly unable to attend his own coronation, Sapt made a plan for
Rassendyll’s impersonation in the coronation ceremony. They left the king in shooting lodge and
went for the coronation but later that night when Colonel Sapt and Rudolf Rassendyll arrived
back at the shooting lodge to fetch back the King, they found him missing. King was kidnapped
by “The Six” Michael’s followers. Colonel Sapt decided to frustrate Michael’s plot by keeping
Rassendyll on the throne until the real King was rescued.

Q: 25. How did Sapt and Fritz serve Rudolf Rassendyll?

Ans: Sapt and Fritz served Rassendyll not only as a person who assisted them in their mission
but they also regarded him very important and valued his advices. They never misbehaved with
Rassendyll and never let down his proposals. When a letter arrived for Rassendyll asking him to
come at midnight to summerhouse alone, at first Sapt suspected a trap, tried to turn down the
instruction but when Rassendyll insisted, he agreed to accompany him. When Fritz and Sapt
escorted Rassendyll’s departure from Ruritania, Fritz still bowed in front of him as he used t do
and kissed his hand in esteem previously. This all shows that their behaviour with Rassendyll
had been like a friend and like a man who was a superior to them.

Q: 26. What was the first gallant and brave step of Rassendyll when he was made an
imposter of the king? OR
How did Rassendyll get the first moral victory over Michael in the dangerous game? OR
When did Rassendyll strike first blow to Michael in the dangerous game played on the
surface of Ruritanian politics?
Ans: When Rassendyll was made an imposter of the king and reached Old Town, which was in
the favour of Black Michael, on his way to cathedral on the coronation day, he went through
without any particular escort or security. In fact he took a very wise and bold step for king’s
popularity and to build the trust by showing his bravery that the King of Ruritania trusts his
people. The people of that area got surprised and highly impressed by the courage and heroism
of Rassendyll who felt no hesitation at all in riding through the danger zone without any sign of
fear or panic. This bold step won him first moral victory over Michael as well.

Q: 27. Give an account of the Coronation Ceremony with reference to Rudolf Rassendyll’s
behaviour. (2015-Sc)
Ans: Rudolf Rassendyll went through Coronation quite successfully. Having passed through the
streets of the old and new city surrounded by gaily dressed men and women, Rudolf and his
procession reached Cathedral. He managed everything quite well and did more than he was
expected by Sapt and Fritz. He faced Black Michael very bravely and enjoyed his frustration of
seeing King keeping his commitment. He also embarrassed Princess Flavia, whom he had fallen
in love on her very first sight, and dealt with Cardinal and formal processions quite well. In
Short, Rassendyll’s behaviour was remarkable and praiseworthy in the Coronation Ceremony
and he never gave a hint to anyone including Princess Flavia that he is an imposter to the real
king.

Q: 28. How does Rudolf Rassendyll behave as the king when he takes part in the procession
before the coronation? (2013-Com-Pvt)
Ans: After drinking the Drugged Wine, King Elphberg got unconscious, his loyal servants
begged Rassendyll to save the throne and impersonate the King. When Rudolf Rassendyll agrees
to impersonate the King in coronation on the demand of Colonel Sapt, he took the job as a
religious duty. After reaching Strelsaun and being welcomed by the dignitaries including
Marshal Strakencz, Commander-In-Chief of Ruritanian Army; Chancellor of the kingdom
Ruritania, a group of officers of the royal court (Colonel Sapt keeps whispering their names in
his ear) the procession reaches Old Town, which was in the favour of Black Michael, on his way
to Cathedral on the coronation day. He takes a very wise and bold step for king’s popularity and
to build trust by showing his bravery that the King of Ruritania trusts his people. Rassendyll felt
no hesitation at all in riding through the danger zone without any sign of fear or panic rather
responded to the cheers and calls of the people. He meets Princes Flavia and Black Michael on
reaching at cathedral. Black Michael shows outward love in the presence of others yet confused
and surprised on the unexpected situation. Behaviour of Rassendyll as a king does not make any
of them suspicious that the real king is not in the Coronation.

Q: 29. Briefly describe the processions of Coronation ceremony of Rassendyll as the King
of Ruritania.
Q: Describe the Coronation Ceremony. (2016-Sc) OR
Q: Describe any important incident of the novel Prisoner of Zenda. (2014-Sc) OR
Q: Highlight the main features and events of Coronation Ceremony. (2013-Com-Reg)
Ans: The Coronation ceremony of King Rudolf Elphberg as the 5th King of Ruritania has been
mentioned in the novel. Rudolf Rassendyll, accompanying Sapt and Fritz, arrives at the station
on Coronation day morning (Wednesday). A large procession, consisting upon dignitaries, brings
the new king to the “Cathedral”, place of Coronation. In the procession a lot of people gaily
dressed lead the king and others shower the flowers over him. The procession arrives at the
Church, decorated with statues and pictures where Rudolf meets with gorgeous Princess Flavia
and falls in love with her. He also meets well dressed priests and Black Michael and many others
who awaited there. When Michael comes to meet him, he shows outward love in the presence of
others yet confused and surprised on the unexpected situation. He is turned pale. The Cardinal
rises to welcome him, Rassendyll knells before the altar and the Cardinal anointed his head.
Cardinal sets the crown on his head; Rassendyll swears the oath and receives the Holy
Sacrament. It is announced that Rudolf the fifth has been crowned as the King. Princess Flavia
was the first to come forward, courtesies low, takes his hand and kisses it. He draws her near and
kisses her cheeks. Cardinal follows Princess Flavia and presents letter from Pope to the King
followed by Black Michael who pays his respect to the King, though is pale, and then the
ambassadors pay their respect. Ceremony lasts for an hour and then the procession moves to the
palace from the same streets through which they had come to the Cathedral.
Q: 30. What was the attitude of Michael to Rassendyll during the coronation?
Ans: When Rassendyll unexpectedly reached at cathedral on the coronation ceremony, Black
Michael, the villain, got stunned to see him there. His full-blooded red cheeks went pale all in a
moment and his helmet fell with a clatter on the floor. When the king was crowned and he went
to meet him, Duke’s lips became dry and parched, his face became patched with red and white,
his steps trembled and he looked to the right and left, as a man who was thinking of flight while
his hands shook the hand of King.

Q: 31. Compare and contrast the characters Rudolf Elphberg and Black Michael. (2010-
Com)
Ans: Rudolf Elphberg being the heir to the throne of Ruritania has the right to be King though he
lacks the qualities of a King. He is easy going, careless and lacks in leadership qualities as he
loves wine, women and music. He takes kingship rather lightly, while Rudolf Rassendyll is bold
and courageous at the right time. His conduct is most unbecoming for a king who makes him
undeserving to be a king whereas Black Michael, also known as Duke of Strelsau is the half
brother of the King Rudolf Elphberg but he isn’t a legal heir to the throne. He appears to be a
traditional villain of the novel who is the owner of the Castle of Zenda and the surrounding
states, still his thrust for power and throne doesn’t quench. he drugged the king in order to seize
the throne in his absence but unfortunately Colonel Sapt snatches away this chance from him by
presenting an imposter of the king. There is no love in Black Michael’s heart for anyone and this
is the reason why even his most trusted followers have no regard or respect for him. In the end he
is betrayed by his own followers like Johann and Rupert of Hentzau.

Q: 32. What is the character of Black Michael in the novel? OR

Q: Black Michael is a detestable character. Discuss. (2017-Sc, 2013-Sc) OR
Q: What were the characteristics that made black Michael an outright villain? (2015-
Com)
Ans: Black Michael, also known as Duke of Strelsau, is the half brother of the King Rudolf
Elphberg but he isn’t a legal heir to the throne. He appears to be a traditional villain of the novel
who is the owner of the Castle of Zenda and the surrounding states, still his thrust for power and
throne doesn’t quench. He drugged the king in order to seize the throne in his absence but
unfortunately Colonel Sapt snatches away this chance from him by presenting an imposter of the
king. There is no love in Black Michael’s heart for anyone and this is the reason why even his
most trusted followers have no regard or respect for him. In the end he is betrayed by his own
followers like Johann and Rupert of Hentzau.
In short Black Michael is all evil, selfish and unreliable character and being the villain of the
novel he betrays everyone. Consequently, he has no true friend. He never cares for blood
relations not even for his love. Therefore, nature repays him in the same coin and he is killed by
one of his own men “Rupert of Hentzau”.

Q: 33. “Black Michael was a clever conspirator but a coward.” Discuss. (2015, 2011-Com)
OR
Q: Who is the villain in the novel “Prisoner of Zenda” and why? (2014-Com-Pvt) OR
Ans: Black Michael, also known as Duke of Strelsau, is the half brother of the King Rudolf
Elphberg but he isn’t a legal heir to the throne. He appears to be a traditional villain of the novel
who is the owner of the Castle of Zenda and the surrounding states, still his thrust for power and
throne doesn’t quench. he drugged the king in order to seize the throne in his absence but
unfortunately Colonel Sapt snatches away this chance from him by presenting an imposter of the
king. There is no love in Black Michael’s heart for anyone and this is the reason why even his
most trusted followers have no regard or respect for him. In the end he is betrayed by his own
followers like Johann and Rupert of Hentzau. Black Michael is all evil, selfish and unreliable
character and being the villain of the novel he betrays everyone. he is a villain, mean, coward,
crafty and has devilish nature. Hence, such a person is most unsuitable to be King. Although
Black Michael knew who the imposter is, yet he couldn’t expose him for his cowardly nature.
Throughout the novel, though, both the sides showed much enmity for each other, still Black
Michael and his followers can’t expose the imposter king. If they did so, they would have to
reveal their own grave crime and this may cause the failure of their treacherous schemes.

Q: 34. Write down the chief negative qualities of Black Michael.

Ans: Black Michael is an intriguer and schemer. He makes every possible effort to remove the
real king, marry Princess Flavia and become king himself as he has no love for any one in his
heart.
No one cares for him either due to his evil nature. He even uses his beloved Madam De Mauban
for his own purposes by promising to marry her. Though love can turn even a cheater but it has
no authority on him. In short he is a villain with all evil in him and no good quality.

Q: 35. Who is more devilish Black Michael or Rupert of Hentzau?

Ans: “A villain is an engineer of his own catastrophe”, both of the characters, Black Michael as
well as Rupert of Hentzau are hateful, scoundrels and detestable by character and nature. Black
Michael is more devilish because of his mean, heartless, evil and vindictive nature. He is fully
aware of the love and relationship of Rudolf Elphberg with Princess Flavia, yet he desires to
marry her. He due to his evil nature hatched a plan to murder King Rudolf and for that purpose
he had kidnapped and imprisoned him in the castle of Zenda.
Rupert of Hentzau has the touch of the devil. He is bold and courageous but is all about money
and fame that is why he assists Michael in his plans. He is fond of Madam De Mauban and
desires to marry her. Rupert is a reckless character who is sincere to none but Black Michael is
more devilish, mean, coward, crafty and clever. He uses Rupert for his purposes and doesn’t care
for his intentions towards Madam De Mauban which leads in an argument and Rupert of
Hentzau kills Black Michael.

Q: 36. What role did Madam De Mauban play in the novel ‘The Prisoner of Zenda’? (2014-
Com-Reg) OR
Q: Madam de Mauban played a magnificent role in the novel ‘The Prisoner of Zenda’.
Comment. (2011-Com-Reg)
Ans: Antoinette De Mauban is one of the major and significant characters of the novel “The
Prisoner of Zenda”. She is a widow of 30 years with very charming and attractive personality
who deeply loves Black Michael. She appears to be rich, handsome, according to repute and
ambitious French lady. She is fashionable and is much talked in the fashionable society of Paris
but is reserved and doesn’t let anybody come to interaction easily with her.
The hero of novel, Rudolf Rassendyll, meets her on the railway platform of Paris from where
they travel in the same train till Ruritanian Border. Despite being a part of Michael’s plans, she
remains a noble lady who wishes nothing but the love of her lover. She proves a very helpful
character in the restoration and rescue of the king. She is the one who gives valuable information
about the king for the first time, leaks out the real intentions of Black Michael and warns Rudolf
Rassendyll to not to trust him ever and later on warns Flavia through a letter signed as ‘A’ in the
last attempt of rescuing the king, she acts as a part of Rassendyll’s party.
Q: 37. Why does Madam de Mauban not cooperate with Black Michael against Rudolf
Rassendyll? (2011-Com-Pvt) OR
Q: “Say I am Christian or say I am jealous. My God! Shall I see him marry her?” Discuss
the above sentence with reference to novel ‘The Prisoner of Zenda’. (2011-Com-Reg)
Ans: The statement is a part of the event of Summer House. Madam De Mauban has uttered
these words when she met Rassendyll in Summer House and disclosed the secret of Castle of
Zenda as well as Michael’s plan to kill Rudolf Rassendyll. She wrote a letter on Black Michael’s
command to invited Rudolf Rassendyll to summer house and coming to know about Michael’s
plan she utters these words. The statement means that being a Christian the conscience doesn’t
allow her to do wrong or to side with those who are wrong. Moreover, as she loved Black
Michael and intended to marry him she had a jealousy with Princess Flavia as Michael had
intentions to marry her. This had hurt Madam De Mauban and as a result of the jealousy, she
turned against Michael and disclosed his whole plan to Rudolf Rassendyll.

Q: 38. Why did Madam De Mauban not want Black Michael to ascend to the throne?(2017-Sc)
OR
Q: Why did Madam De Mauban help Rassendyll? (2016-Sc) OR
Q: Why does Madame de Mauban help Rudolf Rassendyll? (2012-Com-Pvt)
Q: Why and how did Antoinette De Mauban help Rudolf Rassendyll? (2014-Com-Reg)
Ans: Antoinette De Mauban loved Black Michael but Michael was only using her for her
purposes i.e. trapping the imposter of the king, getting access to the throne and getting married
with Princess Flavia. When she learned about his devilish thinking of deserting her and marrying
Princess Flavia, in order to save him from marrying her, she betrays Black Michael and helps
Rassendyll against him. She gave away very important information about King’s exact place in
the castle of Zenda and helped Rudolf Rassendyll to rescue the real king.

Q: 39. Why did Madam De Mauban turn against Black Michael? (2017-Supp,2015-Com) OR
Q: Did Madam De Mauban betray Michael rightly? Comment with reasons. (2014-Sc) OR
Q: Why and how did Madam Mauban betray Black Michael? (2012-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Madam De Mauban was madly in love with Black Michael and wanted to marry him but
when she comes to know that Michael isn’t sincere to her, he is using her and wants to marry
Princess Flavia, she betrays him only to keep him to herself. She is an attractive but jealous
French widow who is dreaming to marry Michael one day and become the Queen of Ruritania.
The disclosure that Michael is using her as a tool for his purposes and wants to bring Rudolf
Rassendyll under his control makes her to betray him. She couldn’t tolerate Michael’s cheating
and changes her attitude towards him. She clearly understands that Kingship of Black Michael
will be the death of her dreams to marry him and to become queen.
She betrays Black Michael and helps Rassendyll against him. She gave away very important
information about King’s exact place in the castle of Zenda and helped Rudolf Rassendyll to
rescue the real king.

Q: 40. Why does lady Mauban write letter to Rassendyll? (2017-Com) OR

Q: Who invited Rudolf Rassendyll to the Summer House and How? (Supp-2011)
Ans: Madam De Mauban invited Rassendyll to her Summer House through a letter under Black
Michael’s direction and when Rassendyll reached the summerhouse, she told him about Black
Michael’s plan to kill him in anyway, seize the throne and marry princess Flavia. She also told
him that she has made arrangements to help him flee but he got trapped in Michael’s plan as his
men approach and surround him. Rudolf Rassendyll got safe due to his sharpness, reached to the
ladder, went up the ladder in a minute and fled from summerhouse.
Q: 41. Who wrote the letter received by Rassendyll signed “A”? What was the importance
of the letter written by De Mauban to Rassendyll?
Ans: One Day a letter signed “A” arrived for the king. It was an invitation to apprise the king to
meet a lady at the Summer House all alone at midnight. Rassendyll presumed that the letter was
from Madam Antoinette De Mauban with the instructions of the lady to reach the Summer House
situated at the end of the avenue. The letter had much importance in the novel because Mauban
shifted her sympathies from Michael to the King as she didn’t want Michael to marry Princess
Flavia in anyway and on the other hand she wanted to take revenge from Michael for his
ignorance and using her for his own purposes.

Q: 42. “Madam De Mauban’s love made Rupert and Black Michael apart”, discuss. OR
Q: Why do Rupert and Michael have a fight?
Ans: Rupert and Black Michael are portrayed as rivals because both are attracted by Madam De
Mauban. In the final course Rupert entered lady Mauban’s room and tried to molest her but she
shrieks to Michael for help. Michael and his loyal servants rush into the room and have a fight
with him. Rupert was armed with a sword; he fights and kills Michael and escapes.

Q: 43. Madam De Mauban is responsible for the tragic death of Black Michael. Do you
agree?
Ans: Rupert of Hentzau loved Madam De Mauban and wanted to marry her whereas Madam De
Mauban loved Black Michael. Rupert entered in her room and tried to convince her to escape
with him but she screamed for help to Michael. Black Michael with his servants came in room
and had an argument with Rupert of Hentzau. Rupert was armed with a sword so, he stabbed
Michael with it and killed him. In this way Madam De Mauban is responsible for the tragic death
of Black Michael.

Q: 44. Compare and contrast the characters of Princess Flavia and Madam De Mauban.
(2014-Sc) OR
Q: Compare and contrast two women characters in the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”.
(2013-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Princess Flavia is the heroine of the novel. She is the cousin and fiancée of Rudolf
Elphberg and also to Rudolf Rassendyll. She is not only beautiful but also intelligent to deal all
her personal and state matters wisely. She is a sensible lady who is also straight forward and
sincere in her love till her cores. She is fully conscious to her duties to the country, though she
loves Rassendyll but yet marries Rudolf Elphberg only to bring joy and peace to her state and
people. Her beauty and sincerity has attracted Rudolf Rassendyll to love her. Her dignity is
always reflected in her behaviour throughout the novel.
Madam De Mauban is widow, rich and gorgeous who is visiting Ruritania on the invitation of
Black Michael. She is very ambitious and is not interested in the politics. She has come to
Ruritania to win Black Michael’s love. She is jealous by nature and feels jealousy towards
Princess Flavia when she comes to know that Black Michael intends to marry her.
She is very sympathetic by nature and the servants of Castle of Zenda regard her due to her
sympathy towards them. She is a noble woman who is open-hearted and generous. She is an
attractive woman and her attraction has got attention of many men including Rupert of Hentzau
who turns enemy towards his master because of Madam De Mauban’s love.
Q: 45. Why Could Black Michael not expose the true identity of the imposter?
Ans: The reason why Black Michael could not expose Rudolf Rassendyll, the imposter, because
he would have himself got into trouble by doing so. Col. Sapt and Fritz would have exposed his
foul-play, in order to prevent him from attending the coronation. Although Black Michael knew
who the imposter is, yet he couldn’t expose him for his cowardly nature.
Throughout the novel, though, both the sides showed much enmity for each other, still Black
Michael and his followers can’t expose the imposter king. If they did so, they would have to
reveal their own grave crime and this may cause the failure of their treacherous schemes.

Q: 46. Who is the Heroine of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”? Describe three qualities
of her character. (2017-Supply)
Q: Throw light on three dominant characteristics of Princess Flavia. (2017-Com)
Princess Flavia’s character is a reflection of virtue and goodness. Discuss. (2016-Sc), (2011-
Com-Pvt) OR
Q: Princess Flavia is an intelligent and romantic character. Do you agree with the
statement? OR
Q: Whom do you consider the most lovable and sympathetic character in the novel “The
Prisoner of Zenda?” Give reasons. (2010-Com) OR
Q: Describe some of the appealing qualities of Princess Flavia (2014-Sc) OR
Q: Princess Flavia is an ideal heroine and the symbol of love, beauty and nobility. Comment.
(2010-Com)
Ans: Princess Flavia is not at all portrayed by the author as a mere showpiece in the novel but an
extra dedicated, sincere and sensible type of young lady. She is a perfect epitome of love,
loyalty, beauty, elegance, sincerity, patriotism, honour and sacrifice. She is loyal to her country,
knows her duties well and performs them with all her sincerity and honesty. She regards the
feelings and expectations of the people of her state important. She is the cousin of the king of
Ruritania who is an ideal princess coming out of the book of romance as we read any literature of
the world. Her love for the king is not only the matter of legal importance but it also has the deep
emotional value. The colour of romance, infatuation and love begins to broaden its spectrum
when a ball is arranged for the imposter of the king and Princess Flavia. Rassendyll tries to
appear to be wowing her and this causes him fall in love with the epitome of beauty and
elegance, Princess Flavia.

In the end, her heart sustained a shock when she came to know the shocking reality that the
center of her love and devotion was not he king but an English young man in the disguise of
King Rudolf. She displays remarkable courage and sense of duty. She confesses to Rassendyll
that she loved him more than her life but was determined to uphold her family honour and the
prestige of her homeland. She made it clear to him that she would prefer to sacrifice her love for
the sake of honour and duty. This noble and daring decision glourifies the character of Princess
Flavia and earned her great respect and love of the readers.

Q: 47. How does Princess Flavia react when she comes to know the truth of the fake king?
Ans: She reacts most naturally when she learns about the identity of the fake king. She is in a
state of shock which is unbearable for her. Her nerves go out of control and she falls
unconscious. She couldn’t bear the torture of this reality and faints. On the other hand, Rudolf
Rassendyll also curses the Heavens and feels great pain on the disclosure of this reality.
Q: 48. How did Princess Flavia prove in the end of the novel that she wanted to uphold
honour and prestige of her homeland and family?
Ans: Princess Flavia is not at all portrayed by the author as a mere showpiece in the novel but an
extra dedicated, sincere and sensible type of young lady. In the end, her heart sustained a shock
when she came to know the shocking reality that the center of her love and devotion was not he
king but an English young man in the disguise of King Rudolf. She displays remarkable courage
and sense of duty. She confesses to Rassendyll that she loved him more than her life but was
determined to uphold her family honour and the prestige of her homeland. She made it clear to
him that she would prefer to sacrifice her love for the sake of honour and duty. This noble and
daring decision glourifies the character of Princess Flavia and earned her great respect and love
of the readers.

Q: 49. “If Love were All, I could follow you in rags.” Discuss with reference of the novel
“The Prisoner of Zenda”.
Ans: These words were uttered by Princess Flavia in the last meeting with Rudolf Rassendyll in
the most tragic episode of the novel. She comes to know the true identity of her lover, Rudolf
Rassendyll and the war of crown shatters her dreams. She has great love for her country and
people and by getting married to Rudolf Rassendyll; she would have disappointed her
countrymen and at the time, had gone against the wishes of the royal house of Elphbergs. This
she doesn’t want to do. So she gives up her love for Rassendyll and says: “Honour binds a
woman too Rudolf. My honour lies in being true to my country and my house (the royal house of
Elphberg.”

Q: 50. Why does Princess Flavia sacrifice her love to Rudolf Rassendyll?
Ans: Princess Flavia displays remarkable courage and sense of duty. She confesses to Rassendyll
that she loved him more than her life but was determined to uphold her family honour and the
prestige of her homeland. She made it clear to him that she would prefer to sacrifice her love for
the sake of honour and duty. This noble and daring decision glourifies the character of Princess
Flavia and earned her great respect and love of the readers.

Q: 51. Give an account of the Ball given for Princess Flavia at the conclusion of which
Rassendyll decided to rescue the king. OR
Q: Describe the importance of Ball. (2017-Sc) OR
Q: What was the plan behind arranging the ball? By whom was it proposed? (2015-Com) OR
Q: What is a “Ball”? State its importance in novel. (2015-Sc)
Ans: The ball is a formal dance party. Social dance forms a large part of the evening; actual
ballroom dancing may or may not occur. It refers to an occasion for gathering and celebrating. It
also includes gossip, intrigue, and romance that often occur at other celebrations, such as a feast.
People of Ruritania loved Princess Flavia and wanted the king to marry her as soon as possible
but in the circumstances it was not possible. The situation was getting worse and the people had
started to feel that the King doesn’t want to marry Princess Flavia rather wanted to be on throne
only. One day Sapt brought the news of dissatisfaction and unease regarding king’s behaviour
with Flavia and advised Rassendyll to give a ball for the princess as the requirement of the
situation. The ball was very splendid and Rassendyll opened it by dancing with Flavia. Rudolf
played his part very cleverly and made his position even stronger in the eyes of people. People
looked at them with curiosity and whispered. Then they went to supper and Rassendyll put a
garland around Flavia’s neck. Rassendyll then confessed his love to Flavia and Flavia replied in
the same. Before Rassendyll could reveal his true identity, Sapt arrived to prevent him. The ball
came to an end and Rassendyll decided to rescue the king without any further delay. The purpose
of the ball was successfully achieved and people regained their faith in king.

Q: 52. Write the selfishness and self-sacrifice of Rudolf Rassendyll. (2010-Com)

Ans: Legally Rudolf Rassendyll is an Englishman, a foreigner in Ruritania and doesn’t classify
to be a King. However he possesses inborn qualities of leadership which weigh heavily in his
favour. He is enterprising, accepts the responsibility to step into the king’s shoes and becomes
the imposter of King and plays that role admirably. Though he falls deeply in love with Princess
Flavia yet he stands to his duties and makes his mind to do what is right. At the end when he has
to choose between his love and love of his lover (Princess Flavia) he chose to sacrifice his own
desire and lets his lover win.

Q: 53. Who are “The Six”? What part do they play in the novel?
Ans: “The Six” are resolute and unscrupulous gentlemen in the service of the Duke of Strelsau.
There are locals (Ruritanians) and three are foreigners. The foreign three are De Gautet who’s
French, Bersonin who’s Belgian and Detchard who’s English. Rests of the three who are
Ruritanians include Lauengram, Krafstein and Rupert of Hentzau. Rupert of Hentzau is by far
the most daring and dangerous of the six. Only Rupert of Hentzau is the one who remains alive
at the end of the novel as he kills Black Michael for De Mauban’s love and escapes during the
attack of Rassendyll and his companions to retrieve the king from castle of Zenda.
The Six play devilish part in the Devilish plot of Black Michael. Three of them are always on
guard with the strict instruction of Black Michael to kill the king in case of any attempt to rescue
him and other three are always looking to grab a chance to kill R. Rassendyll.

Q: 54. Rupert is a dashing daredevil. Comment. (2017-Sc)

Ans: Rupert of Hentzau has the touch of the devil. He is posed as the most dangerous of all the
Six in novel. He is bold and courageous and a real threat to Rudolf Rassendyll and his party. His
master Black Michael fears his skills and attitude. In the novel his daring attempts and attacks on
Rassendyll’s life show that he is brave and dangerous. He attacked Rassendyll in presence of
many men, got successful in injuring him and escaped. He is fond of Madam De Mauban and
desires to marry her. Rupert is a reckless character who is sincere to none but to himself. He even
has the courage to suggest to Rassendyll to let the king, Sapt and Fritz die, to marry Flavia and
rule Ruritania whereas he himself will kill Black Michael and win Madam De Mauban. His
intentions toward Madam De Mauban lead in an argument and Rupert of Hentzau kills Black
Michael. At the end after killing Michael for Madam De Mauban, he gives a strong fight to
Rudolf Rassendyll. All these facts from the novel “Prisoner of Zenda” prove that Rupert is a
dashing dare-devil.

Q: 55. How and by whom Duke Michael murdered? (2017-Supply)

Q: Who did kill black Michael and why? (2016-Com) OR
Q: Why did Rupert kill his own master? (2014-Com-Pvt)
Ans: Rupert is a reckless character who is sincere to none but to himself. He is fond of Madam
De Mauban and desires to marry her. His intentions toward Madam De Mauban lead in an
argument with Black Michael. In the final course Rupert entered lady Mauban’s room and tried
to molest her but she shrieks to Michael for help. Michael and his loyal servants rush into the
room and have a fight with him. Rupert armed with a sword; fights and kills Michael and
escapes. “Madam De Mauban’s love made Rupert and Black Michael apart”.
Q: 56. “Heaven doesn’t choose right men king.” Comment. OR
Q: What does Fritz Von Tarlenheim mean by saying “Heaven doesn’t always make the
right men kings.”? (2015-Com)
Ans: Fritz is a very sincere and loyal servant to the king. He gives this remark due to the careless,
irresponsible and carefree attitude of the King that had put everyone in trouble. Rudolf Elphberg doesn’t
care for his coronation ceremony and drank too much. His behavior in the prison again throws a shadow on
his personality that he needs reformation and rebuilding of his character. It gives a clear picture to the
readers that he would make a very poor type of king but Heaven gives a chance to such men to mend their
ways and learn a lot from their sufferings.

Q: 57. Who was the Prisoner of Zenda? Why was he imprisoned? (2014 (Sc/Com, 2013-Sc)
OR
Q: Who played the role of prisoner in the novel and how was he rescued? (2010- Com)
Ans: Rudolf Elphberg has played the role of prisoner. He liked to spend a care-free life, used to
drink a lot and listen to music. King was addicted to drink so his brother Black Michael sent him
a drugged wine bottle which he drank and got unconscious. Black Michael was a black hearted
person like his title and he had appointed three of The Six as vigilant in the room where king was
imprisoned. They had given strict orders to them to hold on against all attacks. If the attack gets
pressing and they felt that they will not be able to hold against the attackers then Rupert of
Detchard or any one of them had to pass into the inner room and kill the king. The King was
imprisoned in the older part of the castle of Zenda after being kidnapped by Michael’s followers.
Johann was Black Michael’s servant who leaked out the King’s exact position in the castle when
he was captured and forced to reveal what he knew and at last King was rescued with the help of
Madam De Mauban.

Q: 58. What were the steps taken by Rudolf Rassendyll for the liberation of Rudolf
Elphberg? (2015-Sc)
Ans: Rassendyll has inborn qualities of a king. He puts his own life at risk when he accepts to
impersonate the king. Every day being the imposter he is at risk and to add he makes many
attempts to rescue the king. From the first gallant step in the old city before coronation, facing
Michael gangsters with courage and fighting till last fight with Rupert shows his bravery. He
takes all possible chances to find out the whereabouts of King in Zenda; puts his own life at risk
when he accepts Madam De Mauban’s invitation to visit Summer House alone; scouting the
Castle of Zenda; meeting with Rupert in Tarlenheim where he got injured, capturing Johan to
extract King’s location and acting on the rescue plan clearly speak about his steps for the
liberation of Rudolf Elphberg.

Q: 59. How does the tea-table incident turn the table of Michael’s plans? OR
Q: Describe the tea table incident. (2017-Com)
Q: Describe the incident of the attack on Summer House. (2016-Com) OR
Ans: Madam De Mauban invited Rassendyll to her summerhouse through a letter under Black
Michael’s direction and when Rassendyll reached the summerhouse, she told him about Black
Michael’s plan to kill him in anyway, seize the throne and marry princess Flavia. She also told
him that she has made arrangements to help him flee but he got trapped in Michael’s plan as his
men approach and surround him. Michael’s men offer him a large bribe as well as safe conduct
to the frontier but she forbids him to trust them as they had clear orders to kill him by every
means.
Rudolf Rassendyll uses his head, pretended that he was agreed and quickly used iron-topped
table as a shield to protect himself. As soon as the gate opened, he hurled himself on them with
the tea-table that caused three of them to tumble down the stairs. One of them, Detchard,
managed to come out from under the table and tried to fire on Rassendyll but he got safe due to
his sharpness, reached to the ladder, went up the ladder in a minute and fled from summerhouse.
This all turned the table of Michael’s plan of capturing and killing King’s imposter as well.

Q: 60. How did Rassendyll manage to escape from the summerhouse safe and sound where
he had been trapped by the three villains? OR
Q: How did Rudolf Rassendyll defend himself in the summer house? (2017-Sc)
Ans: Duke of Strelsau, Black Michael wanted to get rid of Rassendyll as the real king had
already been kidnapped and kept in his castle and for that purpose he deputed three professional
killers to kill him at the summerhouse.
When Madam De Mauban disclosed the plan and asked him to run for his life as the three
foreigners of Michael’s Six were about to arrive at the scene. Before Rassendyll could realize
and flee, Rudolf Rassendyll got trapped in Michael’s plan as his three villains approached and
surrounded him in the Summer House. Michael’s men offered him a large bribe as well as safe
conduct to the frontier. Rudolf used his head, pretended that he was agreed. He displayed great
heroism, presence of mind and fighting spirit and quickly used iron-topped table as a shield to
protect himself. As soon as the gate opened, he hurled himself on them with the tea-table that
caused three of them to tumble down the stairs. One of them, Detchard, managed to come out
from under the table and tried to fire on Rassendyll but he wounded him, got safe due to his
sharpness, reached and went up the ladder in a minute and fled from summerhouse and safely
escaped to Sapt who was waiting outside.

Q: 61. Which incident did you enjoy most in the novel “Prisoner of Zenda”? (2016-Sc) OR
Q: Comment on Summer House incident in the novel “Prisoner of Zenda”. (2014-Com-
Pvt) OR
Q: Comment briefly on the tea-table incident in the novel, “The Prisoner of Zenda”. (2012-
Com-Pvt)
Ans: Madam De Mauban invited Rassendyll to her summerhouse through a letter under Black
Michael’s direction and when Rassendyll reached the summerhouse, she told him about Black
Michael’s plan to kill him in anyway, seize the throne and marry princess Flavia. She also told
him that she has made arrangements to help him flee but he got trapped in Michael’s plan as his
men approach and surround him. Michael’s men offer him a large bribe as well as safe conduct
to the frontier but she forbids him to trust them as they had clear orders to kill him by every
means.
Rudolf Rassendyll used his head, pretended that he was agreed and quickly used iron-topped
table as a shield to protect himself. As soon as the gate opened, he hurled himself on them with
the tea-table that caused three of them to tumble down the stairs. One of them, Detchard,
managed to come out from under the table and tried to fire on Rassendyll but he got safe due to
his sharpness, reached to the ladder, went up the ladder in a minute and fled from summerhouse.
This all turned the table of Michael’s plan of capturing and killing King’s imposter as well.

Q: 62. What is the new use of tea-table mentioned in the novel?

Ans: When Madam De Mauban invited Rassendyll to her Summer House and disclosed
Michael’s plan of killing him at any cost, Rassendyll decided to use iron topped tea-table as a
shield to remain safe from gunshots of Michael’s men. When he opened the door, Michael’s
three men fired at him but bullets merely hit the table. He threw the table on them and they got
caught up in it. Rassendyll used the table as a shield and cover to protect himself from the
gunshots of Michael’s man and returned safely to the palace.

Q: 63. What was Michael’s security plan / arrangement regarding his conspiracy? OR
Q: What was Black Michael’s plan in case any attempt was made to rescue the king? (2014-
Com-Reg)
Ans: Black Michael was a black hearted person like his title and he had appointed three of The Six as
vigilant in the room where king was imprisoned. They had strict orders to them to hold on against all
attacks. If the attack gets pressing and they felt that they will not be able to hold against the attackers
then Rupert of Detchard or any one of them had to pass into the inner room and kill the king. The killer
will unlock the barred window which is connected with the moat with a large earthenware pipe and the
dead body should be pushed through pipe into the water of the moat. Moreover, if necessary, they
along with the Duke would also pass out through the pipe and will come back to attack their enemies
from behind, who would thus fall into a trap.

Q: 64. Describe the meeting between Rassendyll and Rupert of Hentzau in the street of
Zenda.
Ans: After the encounter of Black Michael and Rassendyll’s men, in which two of Michael’s
party men and four of Rassendyll’s party men died, Rassendyll was wandering in the streets of
Zenda with Sapt and Flavia. When they reached near the castle of Zenda, they saw a funeral
procession of those who were killed last night and Rupert of Hentzau rode behind in black
clothes. A dialect between Rassendyll and Rupert took place in which Rassendyll admired the
bravery of Rupert and Rupert suggested a plan to attack on castle boldly to rescue the king.
Rupert assured that he will kill Black Michael and in that way Rassendyll will get the throne and
he will get Madam De Mauban. Rassendyll didn’t like the idea but Rupert proposed him to think
about it and went back to his friends. Rassendyll discussed the plan with Flavia and Sapt and told
them that he had seen many wicked men but Rupert of Hentzau was unique.

Q: 65. What does the King’s party plan to save King Elphberg and kill Duke Michael?
Ans: Colonel Sapt and his party wanted to use all efforts to save the king by acting very
carefully to restore the King to his throne. Rassendyll made an excellent plan to save the king,
they entered with the help of De Mauban and Michael’s servant where they had a fight with
Michael’s men, killed De Gautet, Searched his pocket and found the keys of the cellar where
King was imprisoned.

Q: 66. What was the exact position of the king in the Castle of Zenda?
Ans: The King was imprisoned in the older part of the Castle of Zenda. The only way to
approach that part was the drawbridge and that indirect mode of access formed only passage
between the old building and the outer world. The king was kept in a small room just by the
drawbridge, a room with one window close to the surface of the moat with entrance only from an
inner room.
Q: 67. Where was King Rudolf imprisoned? By whom was he looked after? OR
Q: Who leaked the King’s exact position of detention in the castle of Zenda? OR
Where was the king imprisoned in castle of Zenda after being kidnapped by Black
Michael’s followers?
Ans: The King was imprisoned in the older part of the castle of Zenda after being kidnapped by
Michael’s followers. Johann was Black Michael’s servant who leaked out the King’s exact
position in the castle when he was captured and forced to reveal what he knew. According to his
information, the king was imprisoned in a small room in the old castle just by the drawbridge, a
room with one window close to the surface of the moat. Three of Michael’s faithful followers
“The Six” were ordered to keep an eye on him and kill him in case of any try to rescue him.

Q: 68. How was Johann persuaded to work as an informer against his master, Black
Michael?
Ans: Johann was the personal and trustworthy servant of the Duke of Strelsau, Black Michael,
living with his master in the New Castle of Zenda. He was in love with one of the daughters of
the Inn-Keeper at Zenda where Rassendyll had stayed before his meeting with the real king and
his attendants and the coronation ceremony. Rassendyll took the advantage of love affair to
persuade Johann to work as an informer against his master Black Michael. Johann was captured
successfully when he came to meet her beloved out of Zenda. He convinced Johann to deliver
information about the prisoner king by threats and surety that he will not be harmed if Michael
and his rotten followers were arrested in consequently. Johann agreed to cooperate with the
king’s men for his own safety and safety of his love in future.

Q: 69. How Rupert did seriously injure Rassendyll in the presence of his friends at the
Chateau De Tarlenheim?
Ans: When Rupert met Rassendyll on the terrace of the Chateau De Tarlenheim, he gave an
offer for Rassendyll from Black Michael of a million crown and a safe conduct to the frontier but
Rassendyll refused.
When Rupert of Hentzau was mounting his horse after the visit, he hurled a dagger towards
Rassendyll. Fortunately, Rassendyll saw the flash of Dagger blade in the sunlight and quickly
moved his body away. As a result, the dagger missed Rassendyll’s heart and pierced into his
shoulder. Rupert escaped unharmed as his horse darted into the forest with the rider followed by
ineffective pistol shots. Rassendyll was badly injured and it was a huge shock for the king’s
camp.

Q: 70. “I have been bitten by a Mongrel dog”, discuss with reference of the novel “The
Prisoner of Zenda”.
Ans: The phrase bitten by mongrel dog means, a dog of mixed breed. This remark is a reference
to Duke Michael’s family back ground, whose mother was a commoner though his father was
king. He doesn’t have blue blood and he doesn’t belong to a royal family either. One of his Six’s
had wounded Rudolf Rassendyll from the back, Michael meets him and inquires about his injury.
Rassendyll makes these remarks and in reply Black Michael looks at him and says, “The dog is
very dangerous Sir, it doesn’t spare anyone in the second bite.”

Q: 71. How did Black Michael die in the novel?

Ans: Rupert of Hentzau loved Madam De Mauban and wanted to marry her whereas Madam De
Mauban loved Black Michael. When Rupert showed his intentions and asked her to come with
him, Madam De Mauban shouted and called Michael for help. Black Michael with his servants
came in room and had an argument with Rupert of Hentzau. Rupert was armed with a sword so,
he stabbed Michael with it, jumped in the moat and escaped.

Q: 72. Describe Rupert’s escape from Zenda and his last encounter with Rassendyll in the
forest of Zenda.
Ans: Rupert Killed Michael and jumped into the moat. Rassendyll followed him but could not
gain as he was wounded. Rupert got out of the moat and ran towards forest. In this chase
Rassendyll got into forest and though he was injured and tired, kept following Rupert. Soon he
caught sight of Rupert and challenged him in loud voice. Rupert laughed and made fun of
Rassendyll but didn’t stop. Rupert saw a girl with a horse standing nearby and as Rassendyll was
reaching close, he snatched the horse from girl, got on it and was about to run, when Rassendyll
challenged him again and attacked him. In return Rupert also attacked and made Rassendyll feel
down, before Rupert could crush him, Fritz fired on Rupert and Rupert fired on Fritz too. Rupert
ran away and vanished in the forest. If Fritz had not reached in time, Rassendyll would have
been killed by Rupert.

Q: 73. Describe the last painful meeting between Flavia and Rudolf Rassendyll.
Ans: The most tragic episode of the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda” is the last meeting between
Princess Flavia and Rudolf Rassendyll. The war for crown and throne has shattered her dreams
and she is at a cross of love and responsibility. She confessed her love and told Rassendyll that
she will keep his ring on her finger but she has to sacrifice her love for the sake of country and
for the love of people.

Q: 74. Anthony Hope has been more faithful to the male characters than female characters
in his novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. Give your answer with valid reasons.
Ans: Reader can easily agree that Anthony Hope has been more faithful to male characters than
female ones in his novel “The Prisoner of Zenda.” All the female characters are partially drawn.
They are drawn in sections and behave like their counter parts in actual life. As it is a story of
conspiracies, adventure, political enmity, Palace intrigues and unaware subjects, so man are more
involved and discussed as compared to the women in the story.

Q: 75. Why does Rassendyll not want to do any job?

Ans: Rudolf Rassendyll believes that a person like him who belongs to a noble and rich family
does not need to do any job as they can lead a good life just depending upon the wealth that their
ancestors have left for them. So, if he is not a needy one then doing a job will be like an illogical
burden on him.

Q: 76. Who persuades Rudolf Rassendyll to do a job and why does he accept it?
Ans: Miss Rose, the sister-in-law to Rudolf Rassendyll, insists him to do a job. He tries to
convince her that he doesn’t need a job due to his comfortable and luxurious life but she doesn’t
stop persuading him. When she doesn’t stop and refers a job that has to start after six months, he
thinks that by accepting it he could stop her from this every now and then labour.
Q: 77. Who were Rassendyll’s friends in Paris?
Ans: Rassendyll had mainly two friends in Paris, George Featherly, who was rendering his
services as a Diplomat in the British Embassy in Paris and Bertrand Bertram, a poet and
journalist who worked with a London newspaper named Critic.

Q: 78. Where did Rassendyll stay when he reached Ruritania?

Ans: When Rudolf entered Ruritania to attend new ‘Kings Coronation Ceremony at Strelsau, he
was informed that the Coronation has been postponed. It seemed to find any accommodation in
Strelsau, Rassendyll decided to stay at Zenda, a small town 10 miles from the border and 50
miles from the Capital. He stayed in an Inn-Kept owned by a woman who was mother-in-law to
be of Johann, the gamekeeper of Black Michael.

Q: 79. What information did Rudolf receive about the king-to-be at border and by whom?
Ans: The Inn-Kept where Rudolf Rassendyll stayed at Zenda, was kept by a kind old woman.
She lived in the Inn with her daughters and through their conversation Rassendyll came to know
that King was in the forest of Zenda on a hunting expedition. He also came to know about Black
Michael, half brother of the King and that the people of state have mixed opinion about making
Black Michael or Rudolf Elphberg next king.

Q: 80. Who was Joseph and what had happened to him?

Ans: Joseph was a faithful and loyal servant of the king. He shaved off Rassendyll and helped
Col Sapt and Fritz to impersonate the King. He met a tragic death by the hands of Black
Michael’s men when they attacked shooting lodge. His body was put in the cellar to confuse
King’s party of the dead body of King.

Q: 81. How was the secret of Rudolf Rassendyll dawned upon Princess Flavia and what
was her reaction?
Ans: Princess Flavia was informed that the King got seriously injured in the turmoil at Zenda, on
her way to Castle of Zenda a farm girl disclosed that the King is lying unconscious in the bushes
in forest. It was the moment when Colonel Sapt had to reveal the real identity of Rudolf
Rassendyll. First there was wonder, then confusion in her mind and at the end she realized that
Rudolf Rassendyll was not the real king or her finacee.

Q: 82. What is meant by Cloak and Dagger story?

Ans: The term Cloak and Dagger story refers to a melodramatic intrigues and espionage. The
novel “Prisoner of Zenda” is an excellent example of it. From the beginning, Rassendyll’s idea
of adventure to witness the Coronation ceremony, becoming the victim of Rurtanian
conspiracies, getting attacked by Michael’s men at summerhouse and Zenda, bloodshed and
struggle to recover the real King and till the end when the efforts are successful, Prisoner of
Zenda displays all remarkable characteristics of Cloak and Dagger Story.
Q: 83. “The Devil has his share in most things”. Comment.
Ans: Colonel Sapt spoke these words to Rudolf Rassendyll when he bade farewell to Rudolf
Rassendyll on station. Rassendyll was returning from Ruritania after successful attack on Castle
of Zenda and recovering the king and saving the throne of Ruritania. Colonel Sapt uttered these
words to tribute the self sacrifice and efforts of Rudolf Rassendyll that he took in rescuing the
King and saving the throne. Sapt acknowledges that Rassendyll is a responsible, sensible and a
combination of outstanding qualities. He is also referring Rudolf Elphberg by saying this line as
he is no match to Rudolf Rassendyll and not better yet has the crown and Princess both.

Q: 84. What had prevented Rudolf Rassendyll from going on the wrong track?
Ans: Rassendyll was a gentleman and a man of honour. He had fallen in love with Princess
Flavia on their first meeting but his integrity, honour and strong values had prevented him from
doing what his emotions and heart desired. He had no desire for the position he held nor had any
intentions to keep it for him. He loved Princess Flavia and was going through an agony to keep
himself detached from Princess. He planned to rescue the King as soon as possible before his
emotions overcome him and he loses his control to decide something that might ruin the efforts.

Q: 85. What invention was given the name “Jacob’s Ladder” by Rupert? What was its use?
Ans: Black Michael had affixed a great earthenware pipe at the square window of the room
where King was kept in Castle of Zenda. The pipe was wide enough for a body to pass through.
It ended immediately above the surface of the water in the moat, so that there was no interval
between pipe and water. If a body tied with weight was thrown through the pipe, it would
directly go to the bottom of the moat which was about twenty feet deep. Rupert named this
invention of Black Michael as Jacob’s ladder or Ladder of Jacob. However, this ladder had taken
the King not to heaven like the real Ladder of Jacob but to the bottom on moat. He mentioned it
to the King when the pipe was being fixed that being a king he should not go by the common
route. Black Michael had ordered his men to kill the king and slip his body in the moat through
the pipe, if any rescue attempt was made on the castle. No one would know as the body will
drown in the moat without splash.