NCERT Class 11 English Woven Words: Chapter 2 — Woven Words
This chapter, "A Pair of Mustachios" by Mulk Raj Anand, explores the symbolic significance of mustachios in India as markers of social class. The author humorously describes various moustache styles, from the 'lion moustache' of royalty to the 'goat moustache' of the nouveau riche and the 'sheep moustache' of the lower classes. These styles are presented as rigid social boundaries, with deviations often leading to resentment and conflict. The text highlights India's adherence to old conventions and prejudices, contrasting it with European customs. The narrative sets the stage for a village incident involving a grocer and moneylender, Seth Ramanand, and a dispute over his 'goat moustache,' illustrating how these symbols can cause significant social friction and trouble. The chapter uses satire to comment on social hierarchy and the pride associated with class distinctions in India, offering valuable insights for Class 11 English students studying social commentary.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 11 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Woven Words |
| Chapter | Chapter 2 — Woven Words |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 654 |
Learning outcomes
- Analyze the symbolic representation of social classes through mustachios.
- Understand the author's satirical commentary on Indian social conventions and prejudices.
- Identify the contrast between European and Indian social markers.
- Recognize the role of pride and past glory in maintaining social hierarchy.
- Appreciate the use of humor and irony in literature.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| nouveau riche | newly acquired wealth, often ostentatiously displayed. |
| bourgeoisie | the middle class, typically with reference to its perceived materialistic values or conventional attitudes. |
| blue blood | aristocratic or noble lineage. |
| rascal | a mischievous or cheeky person, often used playfully. |
| sourly | in a bitter or discontented manner. |
| goods and chattels | personal possessions; movable property. |
| demarcation | the process of marking the boundaries or limits of something. |
| conventions | a way in which something is usually done, especially within a particular area or activity. |
| prejudices | preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience. |
| resplendent | attractive and impressive through being richly colorful or sumptuous. |
| feudal gentry | the class of landowners below the nobility in a feudal system. |
| mementoes | a souvenir or keepsake. |
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Practice questions
- According to the author, what do mustachios symbolize in India? Answer: Mustachios symbolize the boundaries between various social classes in India.
- Name two types of mustachios mentioned in the text and the classes they represent. Answer: The 'lion moustache' represents rajas and maharajas, and the 'goat moustache' represents the nouveau riche, commercial bourgeoisie, and shopkeepers.
- What does the author suggest about the rigidity of these social boundaries? Answer: The author suggests these boundaries are very rigid, and any 'poaching' on the style of one class by another is resented.
- Who is Seth Ramanand, and what is he known for in the village? Answer: Seth Ramanand is the grocer and moneylender who was doing well by buying wheat crops cheap from peasants and selling them at higher prices.
Practice MCQs
Q1. The chapter 'A Pair of Mustachios' is written by:
Explanation: The author's name, Mulk Raj Anand, is clearly mentioned at the beginning of the chapter.
Q2. Which class is associated with the 'goat moustache'?
Explanation: The text explicitly states that the 'goat moustache' is worn by the 'nouveau riche, the new commercial bourgeoisie and the shopkeeper class'.
Q3. The 'lion moustache' is a symbol for:
Explanation: The chapter describes the 'lion moustache' as the 'fearsome upstanding symbol of that great order of resplendent rajas, maharajas, nawabs and English army generals'.
Q4. What does the author imply about the maintenance of European ruling classes' attire?
Explanation: The author contrasts mustachios with European attire like 'frock coats, striped trousers and top hats,' stating that the maintenance of these clothes is 'leading to the bankruptcy of the European ruling classes'.
Q5. The 'Charlie Chaplin moustache' is described as being worn by:
Explanation: The text mentions the 'Charlie Chaplin moustache worn by the lower middle class, by clerks and professional men'.
Q6. What is the author's tone when discussing Indian conventions and mustachios?
Explanation: The author uses exaggeration and irony to comment on the 'queer old conventions, prides and prejudices,' indicating a satirical and humorous tone.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the author of 'A Pair of Mustachios'?
The author of 'A Pair of Mustachios' is Mulk Raj Anand.
What is the main theme of the chapter 'A Pair of Mustachios'?
The main theme is the symbolic representation of social classes in India through different styles of mustachios and the rigid social conventions associated with them.
What does the 'goat moustache' symbolize?
The 'goat moustache' symbolizes the nouveau riche, the new commercial bourgeoisie, and the shopkeeper class, often seen as not truly belonging to the established upper classes.
How does the author contrast Indian customs with European ones?
The author contrasts the Indian reliance on mustachios as permanent social markers with European reliance on attire like suits and hats, which require constant maintenance and expense.
What does the chapter suggest about social mobility or crossing class boundaries?
The chapter suggests that crossing class boundaries is difficult and resented, as indicated by the rising ratio of murders interpreted as jealousy over guarding class privileges related to mustachios.
Who is Seth Ramanand?
Seth Ramanand is a village grocer and moneylender who profits from the peasants' hardship by buying their crops cheaply and selling them at higher prices.
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NCERT Class 11 English — Woven Words — Chapter 2 — Woven Words. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.