Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows. Emperor…
2023
Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows.
Emperor Akbar was greatly respected by the rulers and people of other countries. Ambassadors visited his kingdom, and he too sent his ministers on foreign missions. Once, the Shah of Persia requested Akbar to send him Birbal, the wise and witty minister in Akbar’s court. Akbar was pleased and instructed Birbal to go to Persia.
The Shah of Persia had heard a lot about Birbal’s wisdom and decided to test him. When Birbal reached Persia, he was given a splendid reception. On the appointed day, he was escorted to the palace, where he saw five thrones occupied by five identically dressed men with similar faces. Birbal observed them carefully and bowed before one of them. Everyone was amazed because he had identified the true Shah. Birbal explained that the other four men looked nervous, watched the real Shah, and imitated his movements, whereas the real Shah appeared relaxed.
Birbal’s quick wit and wisdom won everyone’s admiration. The Shah asked him to stay permanently at his court. Birbal politely refused and returned to Akbar’s court.
What does the last paragraph reveal about Birbal’s character?
Answer: C. He was loyal to Akbar — ConceptA character trait is inferred from a person’s voluntary choice, especially when that choice shows which duty, relationship, or benefit the person…
- A.
He was greedy
- B.
He was looking for the Shah’s patronage
- C.
He was loyal to Akbar
- D.
More than one of the above
- E.
None of the above
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Concept
A character trait is inferred from a person’s voluntary choice, especially when that choice shows which duty, relationship, or benefit the person prioritizes. In reading comprehension, the inferred trait must be supported by the person’s action in the passage, not by an unsupported possibility.
Application
The Shah offers Birbal a permanent place at the Persian court, giving him a clear opportunity to change patrons.
Birbal politely refuses the offer, so he does not choose the personal advantage of remaining with the Shah.
He returns to Akbar’s court, maintaining his existing service and commitment to Akbar.
This choice under a tempting alternative is evidence of loyalty to Akbar.
Contrast
“He was greedy” would require conduct driven by personal gain; his refusal of the prestigious offer points away from that reading.
“He was looking for the Shah’s patronage” would require seeking the Shah’s continuing support; he declines the invitation to remain.
“He was loyal to Akbar” fits his decision to preserve his prior commitment and return to Akbar’s court.
“More than one of the above” is not supported because the passage supports loyalty, not greed or a search for the Shah’s patronage.
“None of the above” is not supported because loyalty is directly evidenced by Birbal’s decision.
Result
Therefore, the last paragraph reveals that Birbal was loyal to Akbar.