CBSE Class 9 English Chapter 3: The Man Who Knew Too Much NCERT Solutions

You can maintain inner peace when you are authentic to yourself. While showing off might impress some people temporarily, it is not a sustainable or universally appreciated trait. It doesn't truly pay off in the long run. My friend Ramesh often exhibits this tendency. He is usually seen with several books, and in class, he frequently interrupts the teacher with questions or corrections. For instance, if the teacher mentions that World War II occurred in the 1940s, Ramesh feels compelled to correct them with the precise dates, "Sir, to be exact from 1939 to 1945." Despite his lean physique and spectacles, Ramesh has faced numerous interviews, including for the N.D.A. However, his approach was such that it seemed he was interviewing the selectors rather than the other way around. This attitude predictably led to repeated rejections.

This question encourages personal engagement with the story. After reading about the 'Professor', one must reflect on whether his extensive knowledge was truly sufficient or practical for his situation. The story suggests that while he possessed a vast amount of information, his understanding of how and when to apply it, and his interpersonal skills, were lacking, indicating that he perhaps did not know 'enough' in a broader sense.

The 'Professor' consistently demonstrated his extensive knowledge, often to the point of being overbearing. He achieved this by meticulously studying training manuals at night and persistently questioning his instructors, always aiming to highlight how much less they knew compared to him.

(a) about muzzle velocity: When a Sergeant explained muzzle velocity, the Professor immediately interjected with the precise figure: "Two thousand, four hundred and forty feet per second".

(b) after a thirty mile walk: Following a demanding thirty-mile march, he remained remarkably energetic and cheerful, even suggesting, "What about a song, chaps?"

(c) his salute on payday: His salute was impeccably executed, especially when officers were present. He would swing his arms with precision, marching like a Guardsman.

(d) the loud sound of a high flying invisible aeroplane: The 'Professor' could accurately identify an aeroplane by its engine noise, attributing the harsh sound to the high tip speed of the airscrew.

(e) about hand grenades: Regarding the fragments from a grenade's exterior, he provided a specific answer: "Forty-Four".

(f) during cook house duties: While performing kitchen duties, he criticized the unscientific and unhygienic methods used for peeling potatoes, arguing that it led to a significant loss of vitamin content.

(a) (iv) his habit of sermonising.

Explanation: While Quelch possessed knowledge (ii), it was his constant habit of lecturing, correcting, and 'sermonising' others with his knowledge that earned him the nickname 'Professor'.

(b) (i) he was a strong and sturdy man.

Explanation: The story implies Corporal Turnbull was so stoic and perhaps unyielding, or simply so focused and imposing, that minor actions like hammering nails wouldn't faze him, suggesting a robust and perhaps unapproachable demeanor.

(c) (ii) they could not stand Private Quelch exhibiting his knowledge.

Explanation: The author and his friend Trower left because they were tired of Private Quelch's incessant need to show off his knowledge and correct everyone, finding his behavior unbearable.

(a) A 'nickname' is an informal name given to a person, often based on their personality, appearance, or a notable action. It can be humorous or descriptive. For Private Quelch, another suitable nickname could be 'Mr. Know-it-all' or 'Show-off'.

(b) When the author first encountered Private Quelch at the training depot, he resembled a 'Professor' due to his lanky build, stooping posture, and the way he frowned through his horn-rimmed spectacles. This appearance, combined with his intellectual demeanor, contributed to the nickname.

(c) The Sergeant's dark, sun-dried appearance suggests that he is experienced, possibly having spent a significant amount of time outdoors or in harsh conditions, implying a rugged and seasoned military background.

(d) As the Sergeant's classes progressed, Private Quelch's knowledge was further exposed through his constant interruptions and corrections. He would provide precise figures and details, demonstrating that he had thoroughly studied the training manuals and often knew more than the instructors on specific points.

(e) By "intelligent reading," the Professor meant reading not just for information, but to deeply understand, analyze, and critically engage with the material. It implies a level of comprehension that goes beyond surface-level understanding, allowing one to question, connect ideas, and retain knowledge effectively.

(f) The Professor's ambitions in the army were to rise through the ranks and achieve a high position. He aimed to become an officer, as evidenced by his meticulous study of military manuals and his desire to impress, even if his methods were counterproductive.

(g) It is debatable whether Private Quelch's day-to-day practices were truly taking him closer to his goal. While his intense studying showed dedication, his constant need to show off and correct others alienated his peers and superiors, potentially hindering his progress towards becoming an officer. His focus was on accumulating knowledge rather than developing the practical skills and camaraderie needed in the army.

(h) Corporal Turnbull is described as a formidable and imposing figure. He is a tough, no-nonsense corporal who commands respect through his stern demeanor and strict adherence to discipline. He is not easily impressed and maintains a serious, intimidating presence.

(i) Private Quelch managed to anger the Corporal by continuing his habit of correcting and lecturing even after being assigned to the cookhouse. His persistent know-it-all attitude, even in a role he was clearly unsuited for, likely frustrated Corporal Turnbull, who valued practical competence and discipline.

(j) Yes, it is highly likely that Private Quelch learned a lesson when he was chosen for cookhouse duties. This assignment was a significant demotion and a stark contrast to his aspirations of becoming an officer. It exposed the limitations of his theoretical knowledge in practical situations and served as a humbling experience, forcing him to confront the consequences of his arrogant and overbearing attitude.