Passage

Set against a rural backdrop, "Stench of Kerosene" is the story of a couple, Guleri and Manak, who have been happily married for several years but do not have a child. Manak’s mother is desperate to have a grandchild to carry on the family name. Hence, she gets Manak remarried in Guleri’s absence. Manak, who acts as a reluctant but passive spectator, is meanwhile informed by a friend that Guleri, on hearing about her husband’s second marriage, poured kerosene on her clothes and set fire to them. Manak is heartbroken and begins to live as if he were a dead man. When his second wife delivers a son, Manak stares at the child for a long time and blurts out, “Take him away! He stinks of kerosene.”

QUESTION

CSAT

Easy

Comprehension

Prelims 2015

This is a sensitive issue-based story which tries to sensitize the readers about

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Option A: Incorrect. The story does not focus on male chauvinism and infidelity; it primarily deals with the consequences of patriarchal pressures and the emotional turmoil caused by societal expectations.

Option B: Incorrect. The story revolves around betrayal but does not focus on romantic love or infidelity. It addresses the deeper emotional impact of societal norms and family expectations.

Option C: Incorrect. The story doesn't discuss legal safeguards for women directly. It highlights emotional trauma resulting from societal pressures, not a legal perspective on women's rights or protections.

Option D: Correct. The story illustrates the influence of a patriarchal mindset, focusing on societal expectations, gender roles, and the emotional consequences of those pressures on women and men.

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