Mutton Quiz

The speaker in "Mutton" emphasizes the visual appeal of the meat with phrases like "charming white and red" and "finer meat ne'er met the eye." This choice primarily contributes to:

• creating a sense of disgust towards the animal's slaughter

• establishing a luxurious and decadent atmosphere

• philosophical and contemplative about the cycle of life

• apprehensive and uncertain about the quality of the meal

Answer explanation

The focus on the visual qualities of the meat ("charming white and red," "finer meat ne'er met the eye") suggests abundance and a sense of refined dining, rather than disgust, simplicity, or expertise.

The line "Oh ye gods! how I shall dine" reveals the speaker's tone as:​ (a)   ​

• boastful and self-indulgent in his anticipation
• apprehensive and uncertain about the meal
• philosophical and contemplative

Answer explanation

The exclamation "Oh ye gods!" and the emphasis on personal enjoyment ("how I shall dine") reveal the speaker's excitement and possibly excessive eagerness for the meal.

Based on the poem's tone, voice, and overall message, which statement best expresses the speaker's values?

• He prioritizes simplicity and frugality in his culinary choices.

• He finds true happiness in indulging in sensory pleasures.

• He views food as a symbol of community and shared joy.

• He is deeply concerned about the ethical implications of meat consumption.

Answer explanation

The entire poem revolves around the speaker's enthusiastic anticipation and enjoyment of the food and drink. He takes great pleasure in the sensory experience of the meal, suggesting that this is a source of happiness for him.

The speaker in "Mutton" frequently uses exclamations like "Oh ye gods!" and verbs like "stir," "dress," and "let." How does this stylistic choice contribute to the construction of his voice? Does it make him seem:

• Passionate and demanding, directing the preparation with fervor

• Excited and childlike, expressing eagerness for the upcoming feast

• Authoritative and knowledgeable, offering instructions as a culinary expert

• Detached and observational, simply describing the scene without opinion

2. The speaker exclaims "Mutton is the meat I love" at the beginning of the poem. Could the word "love" in this context also suggest:

• An unhealthy obsession with mutton.

• A symbolic representation of the speaker's values and desires.

• A simple and genuine enjoyment of the food.

• A sense of superiority over those who don't share his taste.

Answer explanation

• The poem revolves entirely around the pleasure and anticipation of the mutton feast, suggesting it holds significant importance for the speaker.

• "Love" in this context goes beyond mere enjoyment of food; it's presented as a driving force of desire and a central element of the speaker's experience.

• The poem's vivid imagery and focus on sensory details suggest a deeper connection between the mutton and the speaker's sense of identity or happiness.