NCERT Class 11 English Woven Words: Chapter 9 — 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 styles, from the 'lion moustache' of royalty and generals to the 'goat moustache' of the nouveau riche, the 'Charlie Chaplin moustache' of the middle class, and the 'sheep moustache' of the lower orders. These styles are presented as rigid social boundaries, with any deviation causing resentment and even violence. The text highlights India's adherence to 'queer old conventions' and how these seemingly trivial distinctions reflect deeper societal divisions and pride in past glories. The narrative sets the stage for a village incident involving a grocer and moneylender, Seth Ramanand, and a dispute over his mustachios, illustrating the practical consequences of these social symbols. This chapter offers insights into social stratification and cultural practices in India, aiding students in understanding literary symbolism and societal commentary.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 11 |
| Subject | English |
| Book | Woven Words |
| Chapter | Chapter 9 — Woven Words |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 4 minutes |
| Word count | 654 |
Learning outcomes
- Analyze the symbolic meaning of mustachios in the context of social class.
- Identify and describe different types of mustachios and the classes they represent.
- Understand the author's satirical tone and commentary on Indian social conventions.
- Recognize the role of pride and prejudice in maintaining social hierarchies.
- Appreciate Mulk Raj Anand's narrative style and character portrayal.
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. |
| prides and prejudices | feelings of excessive self-esteem and preconceived opinions. |
| feudal gentry | the class of landowners below the nobility in a feudal system. |
| mementoes | souvenirs; objects kept as a reminder of a person or event. |
| rumpus | a noisy disturbance or commotion. |
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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.
- Which class is associated with the 'goat moustache'? Answer: The 'goat moustache' is associated with the nouveau riche, the new commercial bourgeoisie, and the shopkeeper class.
- What does the author suggest about the rising ratio of murders in the country? Answer: The author suggests that the rising ratio of murders might be indicative of the increasing jealousy with which each class guards its rights and privileges regarding mustachios.
- Who is Seth Ramanand mentioned as in the chapter? Answer: Seth Ramanand is mentioned as the grocer and moneylender in the village.
Practice MCQs
Q1. The chapter 'A Pair of Mustachios' is written by:
Explanation: The author of 'A Pair of Mustachios' is explicitly stated as Mulk Raj Anand in the chapter title.
Q2. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a type of moustache symbolizing a class?
Explanation: The chapter mentions Lion, Tiger, Goat, Charlie Chaplin, Sheep, and Mouse moustaches, but not an Eagle moustache.
Q3. The 'lion moustache' is a symbol of:
Explanation: The text states the 'lion moustache' is a symbol of 'resplendent rajas, maharajas, nawabs and English army generals'.
Q4. According to the author, what is preferred over frock coats and top hats for marking class distinctions in India?
Explanation: The author explicitly states, 'With them clothes make the man but, to us, mustachios make the man.'
Q5. The 'Charlie Chaplin moustache' is worn by:
Explanation: The text mentions the 'Charlie Chaplin moustache worn by the lower middle class, by clerks and professional men'.
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 class distinctions in India through various styles of mustachios.
Which moustache style is associated with the nouveau riche?
The 'goat moustache' is associated with the nouveau riche, the new commercial bourgeoisie, and the shopkeeper class.
What does the author imply about the maintenance of social boundaries?
The author implies that these boundaries are rigidly maintained, and deviations are resented, potentially leading to conflict.
What is the significance of the 'lion moustache'?
The 'lion moustache' is a symbol of royalty and high status, worn by rajas, maharajas, nawabs, and English army generals.
What is the author's perspective on Indian conventions?
The author notes that Indians are notorious for sticking to their 'queer old conventions, prides and prejudices'.
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NCERT Class 11 English — Woven Words — Chapter 9 — Woven Words. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.