Multiple choice

Which of the following statements would illustrate the metaphor in the passage?

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the given questions.

As the tortoise ducks its feet and head inside the shell and does not come out even though you may break the shell into pieces, even so the character of the man who has control over his motives and organs, is unchangeably established. He controls his own inner forces, and nothing can draw them out against his will. By this continuous reflex of good thoughts and good impressions moving over the surface of the mind, the tendency to do good becomes strong, and in consequence, we are able to control the Indriyas or sense organs.

  1. Man is slow-moving and slow-witted

  2. A man of character refuses to be influenced by outside compulsions against his will

  3. Man confines himself to a life of isolation

  4. Man cannot have a good character or strong will
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B Correct answer
Explanation

The metaphor of the tortoise and its shell has been used by the author to symbolise the strength of character of a man who has control over his intellect and his inner organs. The first line of the passage is a testimonial to the strong will of a tortoise who will not come out of its shell if it has decided against it, no matter the consequences. Similarly, the author wants to emphasize the strength of character of a man with strong self control.

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