Which traits of Helen's character appeal to you most? Give a reasoned answer.
Which traits of Helen's character appeal to you most? Give a reasoned answer.
Among the many admirable traits in Helen Keller's character, the ones that appeal to me most are her indomitable perseverance, her unfailing optimism, and her insatiable thirst for knowledge.
Firstly, her perseverance is extraordinary — despite being both blind and deaf from infancy, she refused to be defeated by her limitations. With relentless effort and the guidance of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, she learned to communicate, read Braille, and even to speak, achievements that seemed almost impossible for someone in her condition. This trait appeals to me because it shows that willpower can triumph over the harshest circumstances.
Secondly, I admire her optimism — she never allowed self-pity to cloud her outlook, instead finding joy in nature, friendship, and learning. Her cheerful acceptance of life, rather than resentment towards her disability, is deeply inspiring.
Finally, her thirst for knowledge stands out — she mastered several languages, studied literature passionately, and eventually graduated from college with distinction, proving that curiosity and dedication can overcome any obstacle.
Together, these traits — perseverance, optimism, and love of learning — make Helen Keller's life a powerful example of the human spirit's capacity to triumph over adversity, which is why her character continues to inspire and appeal to me the most.
Marking Scheme
- 110 marks.
Hint
Determination to learn.
Quick Oral Answer
I admire her bravery and refusal to give up on her education.
Analysis & Explanation
Helen Keller's life-story invites readers to reflect on which of her many admirable traits resonate with them personally, supported by reasons.
Concept
- This is an opinion-based question; the answer must select two or three specific traits and justify each with textual evidence, not merely list all her qualities.
Key traits to consider
- (i) Indomitable perseverance — overcoming her triple disability to master language, Braille, and even speech.
- (ii) Unshakeable optimism — never viewing herself as a victim despite immense hardship.
- (iii) Insatiable thirst for knowledge — her drive to learn languages, literature, and pursue higher education.
- (iv) Gratitude and warmth — her deep affection for Miss Sullivan, family, and friends who supported her.
Common mistakes
- Simply listing all traits without giving personal reasons ("appeal to me") loses marks, since the question demands a reasoned, first-person response.
- Ignoring the "Give a reasoned answer" instruction and writing a generic character sketch instead.
Real-world connect
- Helen Keller's perseverance and optimism remain a global inspiration for anyone facing adversity, showing that attitude and determination can overcome even the most severe limitations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 English (Communicative) 2017?
This question carries 10 marks in the CBSE Class 10 English (Communicative) 2017 examination.
Which chapter does this question come from in English (Communicative)?
This question is from the chapter "The Story of My Life" in the CBSE Class 10 English (Communicative) syllabus.
What topic does this question cover in English (Communicative)?
This question covers the topic "Character Analysis" from CBSE Class 10 English (Communicative).
What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 English (Communicative) 2017 paper?
This is a Short Answer question from Section C in the CBSE Class 10 English (Communicative) 2017 paper.