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CBSE Class 12th English Chapter 6 - Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers: It is a poem written by Adrienne Cecile Rich, an essayist and a feminist. In this poem, the poet highlights the experiences of a woman after marriage. She focuses on the inner feelings of a woman in marriage, who is mastered by her husband.
“Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers” from the Class 12 English Flamingo textbook represents the patriarchal society and how women have to fight for their individuality and self-expression. The poem begins with a lady, whom she refers to as Aunt Jennifer. She is embroidering a piece of table cloth or a wall hanging. The pattern represents the tigers jumping throughout the piece of cloth. The tigers are yellow and shining, moving freely in their home, which represents their fearlessness.
In the second stanza, the poet explains that Aunt Jennifer is pursuing her hobby in her free time but is so tired that the needle has become too heavy for her to control. This represents that the lady is dependent on her husband. The poet describes the submissive life the lady is leading. She acts as per her husband’s command and is constantly under his fear. The contrast of free and fearless tigers signify the inner desire of the lady to live a free life.
The wedding ring on her hand is a constant reminder that she has no power. Her demanding marriage has turned her old before her age.The tigers embroidered by her represent her wish to move and enjoy freedom. Overall, the poem depicts the limitations set for women by society. On the other hand, embroidery done by Aunt Jennifer refers to the struggle made by her to enjoy her daily life.
From the poem, students can expect a variety of questions related to the life of Aunt Jennifer. What does her act of embroidery signify? What do the tigers represent? What is common between Tigers and Aunt Jennifer? What is suggested by ‘weight of uncle’s wedding band’? Why was it difficult for Aunt Jennifer to move the needle? Similar short and long questions will be asked in the question paper for different marks.
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