PLAY
3. The Bull
by Bhimnidhi Tiwari
SUMMARY
Set
in the historical context of 1854 B.S. during the month of Ashwin, the play
centers around the lives of the cowherds, Gore and Jitman, and their encounter
with the feudal system under King Ranabahadur Shah. The opening scene
introduces us to the two cowherds, who appear distressed, arriving at the
residence of Laxminarayan. Their mission is to convey the unfortunate demise of
the king's prized bull, a matter of grave concern given the potential severe
consequences that could befall them.
Laxminarayan,
a character plagued by past experiences of punishment, is instantly filled with
fear upon hearing the news. The narrative weaves a palpable sense of
apprehension as all three characters grapple with the implications of their
situation. The mere prospect of reporting the bull's death to the king could
lead to dire punishment, even death itself. This foreshadows a deeper
underlying theme: the vulnerability of commoners within a rigid hierarchy.
An
important motif surfaces as Laxminarayan's fear of being shaved resurfaces, a
traumatic event from his past that left a lasting mark on his identity. This
narrative detail serves as a symbol of not only physical punishment but also
the psychological scars inflicted upon the powerless by the powerful.
As
the cowherds recount the bull's death, they attribute it to a lack of
nourishment and the inability to digest certain foods. Laxminarayan,
recognizing the peril they face, urges them to conceal the bull's death from
the king, as he knows the grim fate that awaits them if they reveal the truth.
This marks the manipulation of information, highlighting the complex dynamics
between the ruling class and the commoners who navigate a world of fear and
deceit.
Laxminarayan's
subsequent visit to the Basantpur palace portrays the dynamics of subservience
and fear. His reluctance to directly admit the bull's death showcases his
skillful manipulation of words to avoid retribution. This emphasizes how
language becomes a tool of survival in a society where truth could lead to severe
punishment.
When
the king decides to assess the bull's condition himself, Laxminarayan rushes
ahead to give the cowherds instructions. These instructions to massage the
bull's feet and fan it reflect the lengths to which the oppressed go to
preserve the status quo, even if it requires pretending. The cowherds'
desperate waiting underscores their helplessness, exemplifying the stark divide
between the powerless and the mighty.
The
pivotal moment arrives when the king himself confirms the bull's death. The
cowherds' emotional outbursts expose their genuine attachment to the bull,
revealing the paradox of how the lower class can hold more genuine sentiment
for animals than they are allowed to express for their fellow human beings. The
king's tipping gestures symbolize the uneven distribution of power and wealth,
with monetary incentives standing as the price for silence.
In
the play's climax, Laxminarayan's emotional breakdown highlights the
internalized suffering of the powerless. The king's scolding reinforces the
hierarchy's contempt for those lower down the social ladder. Finally, the
cowherds' relieved happiness upon surviving the ordeal exposes the pervasive
fear that accompanies living in a feudal society.
"The
Bull" serves as a vivid depiction of the feudal system's injustices. It
mirrors the degradation of the common folk by the ruling class, emphasizes the
servitude of those in subservient roles, and underlines the dominance and
suppression faced by women. Through its characters and their interactions, the
play unveils a world where power and vulnerability intertwine, and where the
masses are caught in a web of manipulation and dehumanization. The 1854 B.S.
setting acts as a historical backdrop that magnifies these thematic elements,
resonating with audiences on both a historical and universal level.
Understanding the text
Answer the following questions.
a. Why have Gore and Jitman come to see Laxminarayan?
Gore
and Jitman seek out Laxminarayan to convey the unfortunate demise of King
Ranabahadur Shah's prized bull. Their visit is driven by the need to inform
Laxminarayan about the bull's death, which is a matter of great importance
given the potential repercussions that could arise from this situation. The two
cowherds are likely aware of Laxminarayan's experience with past punishments
and are seeking guidance and support in navigating the delicate and dangerous
task of informing the king about the bull's demise. This initial interaction
sets the stage for the play's exploration of power dynamics, fear, and the
complex relationships between the lower classes and the ruling elite in the
feudal society of the time.
b. What, according to cowherds, is the reason
behind the death of Male?
The
cowherds, Gore and Jitman, attribute the bull's demise to two key factors.
First, they mention that the bull received insufficient nourishment,
particularly a shortage of grass, which played a role in its deteriorating
health. Second, they emphasize the bull's inability to digest the fine rice and
split gram soup it was fed. These explanations not only highlight the
significance of proper nutrition in maintaining the well-being of animals, but
they also contribute to the central theme of the play: the stark contrast
between the lavish lives of the ruling class and the struggles faced by
commoners who care for these prized animals. This stark imbalance further
underscores the social disparities and the inherent exploitation that underlie
the feudal society depicted in the narrative.
c. Why does Ranabahadur want to see the bull
himself?
King
Ranabahadur's desire to personally inspect the bull's condition is driven by
multiple factors. Firstly, as a ruler, he takes personal interest in the well-being
of his prized possession, which is the bull. He wishes to assess the extent of
the bull's illness and evaluate whether it could potentially recover with
appropriate care. This signifies his attachment to the bull and his concern for
its health. Secondly, the king's decision to see the bull himself is tied to
the specific location. He wants to prevent the bull from being taken to the
hill for a change of climate and potential healing. By examining the bull at
Thulo Gauchar in Kathmandu, he can ensure that the bull remains under his
direct control and receives the care he deems appropriate, thus reinforcing his
authority and maintaining his position as the ultimate decision-maker. In this
context, King Ranabahadur's involvement in assessing the bull reflects his role
as a powerful figure who holds both the responsibility and the privilege to
determine the fate of not only the bull but also those involved in its care.
This dynamic illustrates the wider themes of hierarchy and control prevalent in
the feudal society portrayed in the play.
d. Why does Laxminarayan run ahead of
the convoy at Thulo Gaucharan?
Laxminarayan's
hurried advance ahead of the convoy at Thulo Gaucharan is driven by his
understanding of the delicate situation they are in. He aims to preemptively
inform the cowherds about the specific actions they need to take to please King
Ranabahadur Shah. Laxminarayan knows that the bull's condition is dire and that
the king's inspection is crucial. He believes that by actively tending to the
bull and exhibiting care, such as massaging its hind feet and waving a fan,
they can create a facade of diligence and concern for the king's prized
possession. Laxminarayan's intentions are twofold: he wants to ensure that the
cowherds take immediate action to attend to the bull's appearance when the king
arrives, and he seeks to prevent any negative consequences that might arise
from the king's displeasure. This underscores Laxminarayan's shrewd
understanding of the dynamics of power and his efforts to manage the perception
of care in a bid to avoid retribution from the king. The urgency in his actions
reflects the high stakes of their situation and the precarious balance they
must maintain within the feudal system.
e. Why do Gore and Jitman cry when the king declares
that Male is dead?
Gore
and Jitman's tears upon the king's declaration of the bull's death carry
complex motivations. Their emotional display is not just an authentic
expression of grief but a calculated response driven by their understanding of
the power dynamics at play. Aware of the significance the king places on the
bull, they strategically exhibit their attachment to the animal to evoke the
king's empathy and avoid potential punishment. Their pretentious weeping serves
as a defense mechanism, aimed at securing their own safety in a society where
the king's judgments can be harsh and arbitrary. By appearing deeply affected
by the bull's demise, they hope to divert blame from themselves and evoke the
king's compassion, thus minimizing the risk of retribution. This reflects their
deep-seated fear of the king's authority and underscores the broader theme of
the vulnerability of commoners in a hierarchical feudal system. Their feigned
sorrow is a reflection of their survival instincts in a society where
authenticity takes a backseat to the manipulation of power dynamics.
f. How do we learn that the bull is dead?
The
revelation of the bull's death unfolds through both the accounts of the
cowherds and the king's observations. The cowherds, Gore and Jitman, describe
the physical state of the bull by mentioning its drooping tail and still eyes.
This portrayal serves as the first hint of the bull's demise, as the cowherds
express their knowledge of the bull's condition without explicitly stating its
death due to their fear of the king's wrath. The confirmation of the bull's
death becomes explicit when King Ranabahadur Shah himself inspects the bull. He
articulates the bull's lifelessness by mentioning its lack of breath, loose
tail, and drooping ears. The king's words serve as the final verdict on the
bull's fate, as his position as the ultimate authority in the hierarchy leaves
no room for dispute or interpretation. The convergence of these accounts, from
both the cowherds and the king, provides a comprehensive portrayal of the
bull's death. This sequence of events underscores the thematic exploration of
power dynamics, fear, and the stark disparities between the ruling class and
the ordinary people within the feudal society depicted in the play.
g. How does the play make a satire on the feudal
system?
"The
Bull" employs satire to expose the injustices inherent in the feudal
system. The play depicts the cowherds' lives ruled by fear, revealing the
suppression, dominance, and dehumanization prevalent in this societal
structure. The stark contrast between the treatment of the lord's prized bull
and the cowherds highlights the system's skewed priorities, where animals
receive more care and respect than the oppressed workers. The cowherds'
pretense to avoid punishment underscores the hypocrisy and cruelty of the
feudal system. Through these elements, the play satirizes the feudal order,
shedding light on its exploitation and devaluation of ordinary individuals,
effectively critiquing the power dynamics and injustices within this
hierarchical framework.
h. Write
down the plot of the play in a paragraph.
Set
in 1854 B.S., during the month of Ashwin, the play "The Bull"
revolves around two cowherds, Gore and Jitman, who urgently inform Laxminarayan
about the death of King Ranabahadur Shah's prized bull. Fearing the
consequences, Laxminarayan advises them to hide the truth from the king.
Laxminarayan himself goes to the king to inform about the bull's illness without
explicitly stating its death. King Ranabahadur decides to visit and examine the
bull at Thulo Gaucharan. Laxminarayan rushes ahead to instruct the cowherds to
tend to the bull to please the king. The king observes the bull's lifeless
state, and despite the cowherds' pretense, he declares the bull dead. Their
emotional outbursts ensue, and the king rewards them with tips. The play
satirizes the feudal system, showcasing power dynamics, fear, and the stark
disparities between classes within this societal structure.
Reference to the context
a. Discuss the late eighteenth-century Nepali society as
portrayed in terms of the relation between the king and his subjects as
portrayed in the play.
In
the late eighteenth-century Nepali society depicted in "The Bull,"
the monarchy held dominion under the Shah Dynasty. The society was rigid and
marked by limited freedoms. People lived under the rule of the king and the
aristocracy, resulting in a harsh and fearful existence for the commoners.
"The Bull" vividly portrays this environment of subjugation and fear,
where ordinary lives were controlled by the ruling elite. The play illustrates
the harsh treatment of subjects by their lords, showcasing the severe
consequences of defying their authority. Rituals like bowing down (swosthi)
were expected as signs of submission, reflecting the unequal power balance.
Fundamental rights were nonexistent, and political awareness was low. Gender
dynamics were patriarchal, with women under male dominance and instances of
polygamy, as depicted through Laxminarayan's multiple wives. The play serves as
a stark commentary on the oppressive nature of the late eighteenth-century
Nepali society, revealing the extent to which the lives of ordinary people were
dictated by the whims of kings and lords.
b. What does the relation between Laxminarayan and his
wives tell us about the society of that time? To what extent has the
Nepali society changed since then?
Laxminarayan's
relationships with his multiple wives offer a glimpse into the deeply
patriarchal society of the time. His polygamous marriages and derogatory
nicknames for his wives illustrate the unequal power dynamics and women's
subservient roles prevalent in the society. During that era, marrying several
women was common, reflecting the society's male-centric perspective where women
were confined within domestic boundaries, dependent on men due to factors like
illiteracy, child marriage, and feudalism. Since then, Nepali society has
undergone significant transformation. Women's conditions have improved notably,
with increased awareness, literacy, and rights. The present society contrasts
starkly with the past; women are now empowered and independent. The Nepali
Constitution guarantees gender equality, granting women equal opportunities.
Women have risen to prominent roles across sectors, eroding male domination.
Laws penalizing mistreatment of women emphasize the shift towards empowerment.
Various institutions work for women's rights and welfare, leading to
substantial changes in societal attitudes and practices. Laxminarayan's
relationships exemplify the historical patriarchal norms, while the evolution
of Nepali society showcases marked progress in women's status, rights, and
empowerment.
c. Shed light on the practice of chakari as portrayed in
the play. Have you noticed this practice in your society?
During
Nepal's monarchy, the practice of "chakari" was prevalent, where
people sought favor by serving and pleasing their kings, leaders, and lords.
This practice aimed to secure benefits and advancement in society. In the play
"The Bull," the concept of chakari is evident as characters engage in
servile behavior to appease King Ranabahadur Shah. The protagonist,
Laxminarayan, is familiar with chakari due to past experiences of punishment
for disrespecting the king. When the bull dies, the cowherds and Laxminarayan
engage in elaborate acts of chakari to keep the king satisfied and avoid
punishment. This theme reflects the fear and flattery that characterized
relationships under the monarchy. Similarly, in my society, the practice of
chakari is observable, though with differences from the historical context.
People often engage in various forms of favor-seeking behavior, particularly
towards politicians. This underscores the lingering influence of power dynamics
and the desire for personal gain. While the nature of chakari has evolved,
remnants of this practice still persist, reflecting the enduring impact of historical
norms on contemporary behaviors.
d. How does Laxminarayan outsmart Ranabahadur?
Laxminarayan
cunningly outsmarts Ranabahadur through his strategic approach. As a legal
officer and bull doctor, he swiftly responds to news of the king's bull's death
brought by Gore and Jitman. Aware of the potential consequences, he employs
flattery to manipulate the situation. Instead of directly revealing the bull's
death, he carefully narrates the bull's illness, skillfully avoiding the king's
potential anger. While en route to the cowshed, he instructs the cowherds to
perform actions that impress the king, like massaging and fanning the bull.
This calculated behavior creates the illusion of proper care. When the king
inspects the bull and deduces its death, Laxminarayan's manipulation ensures
the king doesn't question them, thus averting the punitive consequences they
could have faced. Laxminarayan's crafty tactics effectively safeguard them from
the king's wrath.
e. Sketch the character of Laxminarayan.
Laxminarayan
Dahal, a pivotal figure in the one-act play, is a multifaceted character. Aged
forty, he holds the roles of both a legal officer and a bull doctor for King
Ranabahadur Shah. Despite being married to seven women, Laxminarayan remains
discontented and even contemplates marrying an eighth. When confronted with
news of the king's bull's demise, his astute mind and shrewdness come to the
fore. Aware of the king's penchant for flattery (chakari), Laxminarayan
strategically avoids directly informing the king of the bull's death, aiming to
preserve his and the cowherds' lives. As the king inspects the bull,
Laxminarayan's calculated orders to the cowherds, Gore and Jitman, to perform
actions that impress the king reveal his cleverness. His skillful manipulation
and witty acts lend a humorous dimension to the play. Ultimately,
Laxminarayan's quick thinking and resourcefulness succeed in preventing the
king's punitive repercussions, making him the central figure who has outsmarted
the king through his adroit tactics and flattery.
Reference beyond the text
a. Write an essay in about 300 words on “The Nepali
Society: Past, Present and Future”.
The
Nepali Society: Past, Present, and Future
Society,
as a cohesive group bound by shared culture and norms, is a dynamic entity that
evolves over time. The Nepali society, marked by its diversity and cultural
richness, has undergone significant transformations from the past to the
present, and envisions a promising future ahead.
Looking
back to the past, Nepali society was characterized by rigidity and inequality.
Uneducated masses lived under the dominance of feudal lords, enduring a life of
hardship and limited opportunities. Patriarchal norms confined women within
domestic spheres, denying them agency and freedom. The feudal system
perpetuated class and gender subjugation, while lack of awareness compounded
the challenges. Child marriage and absence of basic facilities marred the
quality of life.
In
the present, Nepal is amidst a transformational phase. Society has experienced
positive changes in various sectors. Infrastructure development, including
electricity, roads, and education, has improved people's lives. Constitutional
provisions have granted citizens' rights and opportunities, uplifting the
status of women. However, the political landscape remains volatile, tarnishing
the otherwise positive trajectory.
Looking
forward, the future of Nepali society holds promise if right choices are made. Political
engagement should be principled and focused on societal well-being, moving away
from personal gains. Education and awareness must continue to be prioritized,
enabling citizens to make informed decisions. Empowering women, eradicating
patriarchal norms, and ensuring equal opportunities for all should remain
central goals.
In
conclusion, the journey of the Nepali society has been marked by significant
shifts from a rigid, unequal past to a more inclusive present. Society is
poised for a brighter future, contingent upon collective efforts to prioritize
development, women's empowerment, and effective governance. As citizens, our
responsibility lies in shaping a society that values progress, equality, and
the welfare of all its members.
b. In his “Satire 9”, Nicolas Boileau-Despréaux says:
But satire, ever moral, ever new
Delights the reader and instructs him,
too.
She, if good sense, refine her sterling
page,
Oft shakes some rooted folly of the age.
Do you agree with the poet? Discuss the lines with reference to
Bhimnidhi Tiwari’s play “The Bull”.
In
his work "Satire 9," Nicolas Boileau-Despréaux presents satire as a
powerful tool that not only entertains but also educates readers. He suggests
that satire, with its blend of wit and moral insight, holds the ability to
bring about self-awareness and change by exposing societal follies. This
assertion resonates with the essence of Bhimnidhi Tiwari's play "The
Bull," which effectively utilizes satire to shed light on the prevalent
power dynamics, inequalities, and dehumanizing practices of Nepali society.
Boileau's
idea that satire is "ever moral" aligns with how "The Bull"
uses humor to critique the feudal system's injustices. The play portrays the
subjugation of ordinary people like the cowherds by their lord, Laxminarayan.
Through satirical elements, the playwright unveils the stark contrast between
the care and respect afforded to the king's prized bull and the harsh reality
faced by the cowherds. This highlights the moral issue of prioritizing animal
welfare over human dignity.
Furthermore,
Boileau's notion of satire being "ever new" resonates in "The
Bull" as it remains relevant across time. While set in the past, the
themes of societal suppression, fear of authority, and exploitation of the weak
are universally relatable. The play's satirical approach not only entertains
but also engages the audience in contemplation about the persistence of such
issues in various contexts.
The
concept of satire refining "her sterling page" relates to "The
Bull" as it exposes deeply rooted flaws in the social structure.
Laxminarayan's manipulation of the king to avoid punishment exemplifies the
farcical nature of power dynamics. The play underscores how societal norms and
values can perpetuate injustice, urging reflection and reform.
Boileau's
assertion about the dual nature of satire – its capacity to amuse and instruct
– is strongly reflected in "The Bull." Bhimnidhi Tiwari's play
effectively employs satire to critique the feudal system's inequalities and
abuses, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The play's enduring
relevance demonstrates how satire can uncover and challenge entrenched societal
follies, encouraging readers to engage critically with their own contexts and
seek positive change.
Best of Luck
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