A Chip of Glass Ruby by Nadine Gordimer
In A Chip of Glass Ruby by Nadine Gordimer we have the theme of sacrifice, prejudice, selfishness, justice, commitment and apartheid. Set in South Africa the story is narrated in the third person by an unnamed narrator and after reading the story the reader realises that Gordimer may be exploring the theme of sacrifice. Mrs Bamjee throughout the story is thinking of others and taking risks in order to help others. Something that is noticeable by her acquisition of the duplicating machine. With the machine she is able to spread a message of protest to others. A protest that involves highlighting the injustices of apartheid that existed in South Africa and which was formally established in the 1950s and followed through till its cessation in 1991. Mrs Bamjee is dedicated to the anti-apartheid cause even though it does not directly affect her. Due to her ethnicity (Indian) she is not subject to the same punitive measures that affected black people in South Africa. This may be important as it suggests that though apartheid is not necessarily Mrs Bamjee’s fight she still nonetheless is prepared to sacrifice all she has, including her freedom, in order to help others.
This is in contrast to her husband Bamjee who throughout the story shows a selfish and uncaring streak when it comes to the subject of apartheid. Because apartheid does not affect him directly he has no concerns about its effects on others, unlike Mrs Bamjee. In reality both Bamjee and Mrs Bamjee are politically the opposite of each other. One (Mrs Bamjee) can see that there is a great injustice being done and is looking for equality for all South Africans while throughout the story Bamjee thinks of no one but himself. Even suggesting that Mrs Bamjee’s arrest is her own fault. At no stage does he show his wife any support. As far as Bamjee is concerned Mrs Bamjee has a role to play and that role involves her life being centred on Bamjee and the family. While Mrs Bamjee is a struggling political activist Bamjee on the other hand has no time for anybody but himself.
The role that Mrs Bamjee’s children play may also be important as unlike Bamjee they are supportive and understanding of their mother. While she is in prison Jimmy and Girlie visit her to offer her their support. They can both see that Mrs Bamjee is seeking justice for black people in South Africa. For black people to be treated as equal to whites. Mrs Bamjee does not discriminate when it comes to the colour of a person’s skin something that cannot be said for Bamjee. There is a sense that he supports apartheid and considers himself to be better than black people. He does not wish to be involved in any way political or otherwise with the struggles the anti-apartheid movement faced at the time. Again his position in life is solely based on what others can do for him particularly what Mrs Bamjee can do for him.
How unselfish Mrs Bamjee actually is; is also noticeable near the end of the story when she reminds Girlie that it is Bamjee’s birthday. Though she is on hunger strike in protest of what is happening to black people in South Africa she is still balanced enough in life to remember that it is Bamjee’s birthday. Though some critics may suggest that Mrs Bamjee should forget about Bamjee, particularly due to the lack of support he gives her, it is possible that Gordimer is focusing on Mrs Bamjee’s ability to remember others. To not put the spotlight on her own life as Bamjee does. There is also a sense that Bamjee is disgruntled while he is eating his breakfast. Possibly because he has had to prepare it for himself. The setting of the story may also be important as all the action takes place in Bamjee’s home. It is possible that by doing so Gordimer is attempting to highlight that South Africa was the only country in the world in whereby apartheid existed. It was confined to the one place. The title of the story may also have some symbolic significance with Gordimer suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light (chip of glass ruby shining) in a dark place (apartheid). It is also possible that Gordimer is using the colour of a ruby (usually red) to suggest symbolically the idea that Mrs Bamjee is prepared to give her life (or blood) in her fight against apartheid.
The end of the story is also interesting as Bamjee despite his misgivings about Mrs Bamjee’s actions realises that he loves her because she is different to others. She is not like other Indian women. She is prepared to sacrifice her life not only for the anti-apartheid movement but Bamjee knows that she is also prepared to sacrifice her life for him and the family too. She is unwavering in her dedication to both her family and the anti-apartheid movement. Standing up for others who are unable to stand up for themselves. All in order to seek equality for every man, woman and child in South Africa. While Bamjee may not be able to connect with the anti-apartheid movement there is a sense at the end of the story that he does understand Mrs Bamjee’s commitment and it is this commitment that he has fallen in love with. He may not like the direction Mrs Bamjee is going (hunger strike) but he understands she is a forthright and strong woman who believes in equality for all. Even if it means that she must sacrifice her life to achieve her goal.
Is Mr Bamjee fit to be a South African citizen? Explain to me in details.
Thank you for the comment Isaka. At the time the story is set Mrs Bamjee would not have been seen to have been fit to be a South African citizen by the South African government due to her stance against apartheid.
I am trying to understand who is the chip and who is the ruby in this story and the title reference.
I’m sorry but I would need to read the story again to answer your question.
“When she was a girl, in the Transvaal town where they still lived, her (Mrs Bamjee’s) mother fixed a chip of glass ruby in her nostril; but she had abandoned that adornment as too old-style, even for her, long ago.”
This was the direct correlation a chip of glass ruby has, and as said in this article, it was referring to her being a shining light of hope in the darkness Apartheid. There isn’t (as far as I have seen) any connection to her being a chip of anyone, however I think her mother was a caring woman just like herself, and she modeled her morals and values based on her mother’s, so maybe she feels like she is a chip of her mother. I hope this helps!
Thanks for that insight Levis.
‘The duplicating machine is gone’.Explain the symbolism. Thanks
It’s difficult to say. Perhaps hope for the apartheid movement has been lost or hindered.
Explain briefly why the duplicating machine had been taken by the police
Yes, because she fights together with south africans. She does not only think for herself.
Thanks Arty.
Thanks for sharing
Dermot thank you so much, profound work.
I’m glad you found the post helpful.
What is the cause of bamjee’s unhappiness?
He’s not able to control Mrs Bamjee
Yes she deserves
Yes she deserves to be a South African
What is meant by “hunger strike”?
Thanks for the comment Siboniso. A hunger strike is when a person, usually a prisoner or protester, starves themselves of food in order to make a point or to protest about an issue.
When one or a group of people refuse to eat (that’s what I think)
Thanks Mcgry.
Refused to eat in order to make the person who has wronged you or anyone else realized his or her mistake
What I do not understand is whether Mrs Bamjee is in prison or at home?
Thanks for the comment Musa. At the beginning of the story Mrs Bamjee is at home but the police come to her home and she ends up in prison because she is using a printing press to print leaflets promoting an anti-apartheid message.
in prison
Thanks Alfred.
What dies Gordimer mean when she says “unimportant as a dress on a pig…”
I’m not sure. I would need to know what context the line is used in.
Mrs Bamjee is in prison.The police officers came to catch her and a duplicating machine.
Thanks Samkelo.
What exactly is the main theme of this story?
Thanks for the comment Lusani. The main theme would be the sacrifices made by some during the apartheid era.
Mr Bamjee is not a fit man to be South African his selfishness and hatred of wanting spotlight inside of his pocket cannot build the country.
Thanks for the comment Naphtaliah. Mr Bamjee does act selfishly at times in the story.
What is the irony of this story?
Any specific irony or incident you have in mind?
It’s Ironical for two coloured police men to be sent to arrest Mrs Bamjee, when both Indians and Coloreds were affected by Apartheid. They should have warned her about the imminent arrest and asked her to get rid of incriminating evidence in her house.
Explain the. Following statement is true. The clock from Mrs Bamber saw it. Was three o’clock, was a durable one
Thanks for the comment Mapula. It is possible that Gordimer is suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is as true and as durable (or resilient) as the clock.
At the beginning the are nine Bamjee children, at the end we find that Bamjee has only his son Jimmy and only his daughter Girlie. How many Bamjee children are there?
Thanks for the comment Nhanha. I suggest that there are nine children and that Gordimer is only giving a voice to two of them.
There were nine pahad, it means there were additional children from a poor family called pahad.
Thanks for the comment Papzen. I think you’re right.
All his children are 10.
Yes there are ten children in the family.
i dont understand .Zanip Bamjee was married to a Mr Pahad and they (Zanip and pahad)were blessed with fivr children .in the Bamjee marriage she gave birth to four children. …..so they are nine children right?
I’ve double checked. There are ten children. Girlie is living outside the Bamjee home.
Bamjee works hard to support his family,is it true?
Yes he does. As far as I remember he spends long hours working as a street hawker.
Again am confused about these ten children . I fully understand that Zanip brings in 5 children from her previous marriage. Now let’s work out to another 5
Bamjee brought in five as well.
Thank you
Zanip Bamjee and Yusuf Bamjee had 9 children altogether,Mrs Bamjee had 5 children from her first marriage with Mr Pahad, which means she had 4 children with Mr Bamjee then total is 9
Why did Mrs Bamjee decide to involve her self?
Thanks for the comment Mzamo. Gordimer doesn’t clearly state as to why Mrs Bamjee got involved with the anti-apartheid movement so it is left to each individual reader to decide as to why she acts as she does. It is possible that Mrs Bamjee believes in equality and justice for all regardless of the colour of an individual’s skin. That may be her motivation.
I think it has to do with deep down inside she is afraid it might happen to her family as well (apartheid)
Thanks Cayden.
Thank you! We have this short story as a prescribed story at our school, but we haven’t received any information about it. Without this… I would probably fail the test!
Thanks for the comment Shiné. I’m glad that you found the post of some benefit to you. Good luck with your test.
Why were they duplicating the leaflets?
Thanks for the comment Sbosh. By duplicating the leaflets there was more leaflets to distribute. Which meant that Mrs Bamjee could hand out more leaflets to more people. Ensuring more people would read about her cause (anti-apartheid).
As if she was pounding chillies …what does this mean?
Thanks for the comment Lerato. Gordimer may be suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is dedicated and focused on what she is doing.
It shows the focus she has on what she was doing.
Thanks Zwivhuya.
Do you think Mrs Bamjee has only political relationship with the mans?
Mrs Bamjee is married to Mr Bamjee and has nine children with him. Her relationship with the anti-apartheid movement appears to be strictly political with no hint that she may be involved romantically with anybody else.
Didn’t you say Mrs Bamjee had 10 children?
Yes.
Who was in Mr Bamjee’s house and how did he feel about that?
Mr Bamjee lives with Mrs Bamjee and their children. Mr Bamjee was not happy that Mrs Bamjee was part of the anti-apartheid movement. However at the end of the story he has a change of mind and reflects on way he loves Mrs Bamjee.
What does the group areas act mean?
You’ll find a good answer to your question here. The first couple of sentences will give you a good idea as to what the Group Areas Act was.
You’ll find a good answer to your question here. The first couple of sentences will give you a good idea as to what the Group Areas Act was.
Why did Mrs Bamjee get involved in the ant-apartheid movement?
Thanks for the comment Pitsi. It is possible that Mrs Bamjee believes in justice and equality for all regardless of the colour of an individual’s skin. She may feel as though what is happening in South Africa (at the time) is not right and wants to lend a hand, the best she can, to improve the circumstances of others.
How did Jimmy support his mother when she was in jail
Thanks for the comment Lutendo. Jimmy supports his mother by visiting her in prison. He also gives his mother his green jersey. So that she can wear it in prison.
Mr Bamjee ‘felt the night all around him’ explain the symbolism
Thanks for the comment Trevor. I think this line represents the loneliness that Mr Bamjee feels after Mrs Bamjee has been sent to prison. His world is in darkness and he may regret the fact that he has not supported Mrs Bamjee and the anti apartheid cause.
Still confused about the nine children. What can I know about them cause the narrator only speaks about Jimmy and Girlie,. Who are the other 7, are they a biological part of the family?
Thanks for the comment Carnition. Mr Bamjee had four children prior to marrying Mrs Bamjee (nee Pahad) and Mrs Bamjee brought five children into the marriage to Mr Bamjee. I’m not sure as to why the narrator doesn’t mention all children, perhaps they are still young and unaware of the circumstances that Mrs Bamjee finds herself in.
What’s Girlie’s real name?
As far as I can work out the narrator never tells the reader what Girlie’s real name is.
Girlie’s real name is Fatima. She adopted the name Girlie with the clothes of the young factory girls among whom she worked with.
Thanks for that insight Bongela.
Thanks for that insight Bongela.
She got that name because she was the youngest out of all the people she was working with hence they called her Girlie
Thanks Hammy.
What is the duplicating machine for….and what was the reason for the arrest of Mrs Bamjee
Thanks for the comment Zama. The duplicating machine duplicated (or printed) anti-apartheid leaflets. Mrs Bamjee went to prison for not only printing the leaflets but for distributing them too.
What is the setting of the story, is it just South Africa?
Thanks for the comment Rolland. Yes the story is set in South Africa but you could be a little more precise if you want to be. You could say it is set in the home of an Indian family in in an unnamed town or city in South Africa
Very excellent summary, well done!
Thanks for the comment Lindokuhle. I’m glad you found the post helpful.
Thanks for the comment Lindokuhle. I’m glad you found the post helpful.
Was Mr Bamjee happy about Mrs Bamjee being arrested?
Thanks for the comment Kay. Mr Bamjee was resentful of the fact that Mrs Bamjee was arrested. He was also embarrassed because people (school teacher) talked about the fact that Mrs Bamjee had been arrested.
Thanks for the comment Kay. Mr Bamjee was resentful of the fact that Mrs Bamjee was arrested. He was also embarrassed because people (school teacher) talked about the fact that Mrs Bamjee had been arrested.
Does his mood (Mr Bamjee) stay the same after Zanip’s arrest?
Mr Bamjee’s mood changes. Something that is noticeable when Mr Bamjee discovers that Zanip is on hunger strike. In support of her he pushes his own plate away when he is eating at home. Mr Bamjee moves from being resentful towards Zanip to being supportive of her actions as the story progresses.
Why do you think Mr Bamjee has a racist worldwide?
He believes he is better than the South Africans.
Mr Bamjee’s mood changes. Something that is noticeable when Mr Bamjee discovers that Zanip is on hunger strike. In support of her he pushes his own plate away when he is eating at home. Mr Bamjee moves from being resentful towards Zanip to being supportive of her actions as the story progresses.
Since they lived in a house with no room for privacy how do the children react towards their argument about anti-arpatheid?
Both Jimmy and Girlie are supportive of their mother and there is no mention of the other children who may be too young to understand what is happening.
Both Jimmy and Girlie are supportive of their mother and there is no mention of the other children who may be too young to understand what is happening.
Does Mrs Bamjee’s arrest affect Mr Bamjee’s work?
Mr Bamjee finds it hard to work and look after the children when Mrs Bamjee is in prison.
Mr Bamjee finds it hard to work and look after the children when Mrs Bamjee is in prison.
Thanks a lot Dermot.
You’re welcome Kay.
You’re welcome Kay.
What is a purpose of hidden in a washbasket and conveyed in a black man’s taxi?
Thanks for the comment Moeketsi. That’s how the duplicator was transported to Mrs Bamjee’s home. It had to be hidden as it was most likely illegal to have one at the time.
Thanks for the comment Moeketsi. That’s how the duplicator was transported to Mrs Bamjee’s home. It had to be hidden as it was most likely illegal to have one at the time.
Does the story end on the climax? If not, what is the falling action and resolution?
Thanks for the comment Buhle. The story doesn’t end on the climax which would be when Mrs Bamjee is arrested. As for the falling action that would occur when Mrs Bamjee decides to go on hunger strike. The stories resolution is when Mr Bamjee realises why he married Mrs Bamjee (because of her commitment).
Thanks for the comment Buhle. The story doesn’t end on the climax which would be when Mrs Bamjee is arrested. As for the falling action that would occur when Mrs Bamjee decides to go on hunger strike. The stories resolution is when Mr Bamjee realises why he married Mrs Bamjee (because of her commitment).
What is the meaning of ‘chip of glass ruby.’ Thank you in advance.
Thanks for the comment William. If you mean literally than a chip of glass ruby would be a small piece of ruby that has been taken from a bigger ruby. If you mean as in what is the meaning of the title of the story then symbolically Gordimer could be suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a little shining light in a dark place (apartheid). Also if you mean as in what is the story about then it would be about the struggle some people like Mrs Bamjee went through to help others (black people) during the apartheid era.
What activities occupy Mrs. Bamjee time and energy?
Thanks for the comment Chelssy. Mrs Bamjee spends her time looking after her family and printing and handing out leaflets against apartheid.
Thanks for the comment Chelssy. Mrs Bamjee spends her time looking after her family and printing and handing out leaflets against apartheid.
That’s very true Dermot. Also to add on what you have said, “When she was a girl, in the Transvaal tow where they lived still, her mother fixed a Chip of glass ruby in her nostril; but she had abandoned that adornment as too old-style, even for her, long ago.”
In the Indian tradition and culture nose rings are considered as one of the signs of marriage, and is an integral part of traditional bridal jewellery. In the Muslim culture, a nose ring is very auspicious and is a mandatory marriage ornament to be worn by all Muslim bides.
Having said this, The Chip of glass is discarded because it is outdated just like South Africa’s apartheid government. Mrs Bamjee discards the apartheid system.
Thanks for that insight Skae. What you’re saying makes perfect sense. I wouldn’t have thought of it.
Thanks
Thanks for the comment William. If you mean literally than a chip of glass ruby would be a small piece of ruby that has been taken from a bigger ruby. If you mean as in what is the meaning of the title of the story then symbolically Gordimer could be suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a little shining light in a dark place (apartheid). Also if you mean as in what is the story about then it would be about the struggle some people like Mrs Bamjee went through to help others (black people) during the apartheid era.
Mrs Bamjee worked the duplicator as if she might have been pounding chillies. What does the simile tells about the 2 aspects of Mrs Bamjee’s life?
Thanks for the comment M. I would suggest that the two aspects of Mrs Bamjee’s life that Gordimer is referring to is the fact that Mrs Bamjee is hard working and focused.
Thanks for the comment M. I would suggest that the two aspects of Mrs Bamjee’s life that Gordimer is referring to is the fact that Mrs Bamjee is hard working and focused.
What do we learn about Mrs Bamjee’s ability to deal with people in the words
“He found her now back in the kitchen setting… different wave lengths with the children”
Mrs Bamjee may be able to adapt to different circumstances. When she is with the children she acts as a mother and when she is doing anti-apartheid work she acts as an activist.
Do u agree that she can multi-task?
Yes Mrs Bamjee can multi-task. She can run a family and still participate in her anti-apartheid work.
Yes Mrs Bamjee can multi-task. She can run a family and still participate in her anti-apartheid work.
Mrs Bamjee may be able to adapt to different circumstances. When she is with the children she acts as a mother and when she is doing anti-apartheid work she acts as an activist.
What evidence is there that Mr Bamjee can be self-centered?
When Mrs Bamjee is in prison Mr Bamjee gives out about the fact that he has to work and then go home and look after the children. His number one concern appears to be himself and not Mrs Bamjee’s circumstances.
When Mrs Bamjee is in prison Mr Bamjee gives out about the fact that he has to work and then go home and look after the children. His number one concern appears to be himself and not Mrs Bamjee’s circumstances.
Do children sympathize more with Bamjee/Mrs Bamjee? Give 3 reasons pls.
I think that the children are equally supportive of both Mr and Mrs Bamjee. They are not critical of Mr Bamjee when they could be and they remain committed to Mrs Bamjee and believe in her actions.
Do you agree that the children sympathised more with Bamjee when Mrs Bamjee got arrested?
I think they were more supportive of Mrs Bamjee after she got arrested and definitely more supportive when she went on hunger strike. They focused more on Mrs Bamjee than they did on Mr Bamjee.
Heei
I don’t know whether this post is still ongoing this year…Am a university student and we are doing Chip of glass Ruby ..
I need some help too, to master my tests
If you had to choose between Bamjee and Mrs Bamjee who would it be?
I’d go with Mrs Bamjee as she has principles. She is hard working and is focused as a person. She believes in something and is willing to go to jail over her beliefs.
I’d go with Mrs Bamjee as she has principles. She is hard working and is focused as a person. She believes in something and is willing to go to jail over her beliefs.
I think that the children are equally supportive of both Mr and Mrs Bamjee. They are not critical of Mr Bamjee when they could be and they remain committed to Mrs Bamjee and believe in her actions.
What does Mr Bamjee learn in closing paragraphs of story
Mr Bamjee realises how dedicated Mrs Bamjee is and how he may not have given her the full support that she needed. He also realises how lucky he is to have Mrs Bamjee as a wife.
Why was the duplicating machine brought to the bamjees house?
What does the duplication machine symbolise?
Thanks for the comment Ntshuxi. Most likely the duplication machine symbolises the spread of anti-apartheid feelings in South Africa. Each leaflet given to people might sway or change their opinion on apartheid.
Thanks for the comment Ntshuxi. Most likely the duplication machine symbolises the spread of anti-apartheid feelings in South Africa. Each leaflet given to people might sway or change their opinion on apartheid.
What traits does Gordimer give Mrs . Bamjee to make her a sympathetic character?
Thanks for the comment Pinky. Mrs Bamjee would be a patient and resilient character. Not only is she dedicated to her family but she is also dedicated to the anti-apartheid movement. Nothing seems to faze her and she remains driven by her beliefs.
Thanks for the comment Pinky. Mrs Bamjee would be a patient and resilient character. Not only is she dedicated to her family but she is also dedicated to the anti-apartheid movement. Nothing seems to faze her and she remains driven by her beliefs.
What conclusion would you draw about the relationship between Mrs Bamjee and Bamjee?
Though Mr Bamjee does not approve of Mrs Bamjee’s activities he begins to understand how important the ant-apartheid movement is to her when she goes on hunger strike. He also knows that she is a good mother and that he himself may not have been there when Mrs Bamjee needed him. At the end of the story his pushing of his food away from him symbolically connects Mr Bamjee with Mrs Bamjee. No longer is Mr Bamjee thinking of himself.
Though Mr Bamjee does not approve of Mrs Bamjee’s activities he begins to understand how important the ant-apartheid movement is to her when she goes on hunger strike. He also knows that she is a good mother and that he himself may not have been there when Mrs Bamjee needed him. At the end of the story his pushing of his food away from him symbolically connects Mr Bamjee with Mrs Bamjee. No longer is Mr Bamjee thinking of himself.
How does Bamjee feel about his wife’s political activities?
Bamjee is not pleased and it is only when Mrs Bamjee goes on hunger strike that he begins to support her.
Bamjee is not pleased and it is only when Mrs Bamjee goes on hunger strike that he begins to support her.
What happens when the government finds out about Mrs Bamjee’s activities?
The police take way the duplicating machine and Mrs Bamjee is sent to prison.
The police take way the duplicating machine and Mrs Bamjee is sent to prison.
How do the members of Mrs Bamjee’s family react to what happens to her?
Each is supportive of her. With both Girlie and Jimmy visiting their mother in prison. While Mr Bamjee though he doesn’t go to the prison he still at the end of the story supports Mrs Bamjee. Something that is symbolically noticeable when he pushes his food away from him.
Each is supportive of her. With both Girlie and Jimmy visiting their mother in prison. While Mr Bamjee though he doesn’t go to the prison he still at the end of the story supports Mrs Bamjee. Something that is symbolically noticeable when he pushes his food away from him.
What political struggle is Mrs Bamjee engaged with?
Mrs Bamjee is fighting against apartheid.
Mrs Bamjee is fighting against apartheid.
When he pushes food he symbolizes that he is no longer self centered,isn’t it!?
You could be right.
There’s this thing i don’t understand about the number of children mrs bamjee had….please read the second paragraph carefully
Thanks for the comment Julian. I’ve mentioned in some comments that there are nine children. Thanks to your observations I now realise that there are ten children.
Thanks for the comment Julian. I’ve mentioned in some comments that there are nine children. Thanks to your observations I now realise that there are ten children.
“She did so as she might have been pounding chilies” What’s the writer saying in these lines?
Thanks for the comment Evans. Gordimer is using a figure of speech called a simile to suggest that Mrs Bamjee is working as hard at printing the leaflets as she would be doing if she was preparing chilies for a meal for the family. She is focused on the task she is doing.
Thanks for the comment Evans. Gordimer is using a figure of speech called a simile to suggest that Mrs Bamjee is working as hard at printing the leaflets as she would be doing if she was preparing chilies for a meal for the family. She is focused on the task she is doing.
What does the word” flattered” tells us about how Mr Bamjee feels about his wife’s political activities?
Thanks for the comment Jabulani. Mr Bamjee is thinking of himself when he sees some of the people helping Mrs Bamjee. It is as though his ego is boosted that such dignitaries or important people come into his home. It is only at the end of the story that he actually thinks about Mrs Bamjee’s political activities and supports them..
Thanks for the comment Jabulani. Mr Bamjee is thinking of himself when he sees some of the people helping Mrs Bamjee. It is as though his ego is boosted that such dignitaries or important people come into his home. It is only at the end of the story that he actually thinks about Mrs Bamjee’s political activities and supports them..
How many rooms are there in the Bamjee household?
Thanks for the comment Nelly. In total there are four rooms in the Bamjee household. The living room and three other rooms which all contain beds.
Did Indian people have to carry passes during the time the story is set?
Yes they did have to carry passes. However the carrying of passes stopped in 1986. I’m not sure what year that Gordimer has set the story. I know it’s during the apartheid era which ended in 1991.
‘Isn’t it enough that you’ve got the Indians’ troubles on your back?’ Can you please explain this line for me. I find it hard to understand.
Thanks for the comment Lindokuhle. Bamjee appears to be annoyed that Mrs Bamjee is taking on the cause of black South Africans. He thinks that those who are Indian already have enough trouble without trying to help others.
Please describe the visit of the Special Branch (969).
Thanks for the comment Lissa. Mrs Bamjee is calm throughout the time that the Special Branch arrive at her home. Though she is annoyed that the Special Branch try and take the tome Nehru had written. If anything Mrs Bamjee is determined. She knows that she is guilty. However guilt is the last thing on her mind. Mr Bamjee on the other hand blames his wife publicly for what is happening. He is not supportive of his wife. The Special Branch themselves also know exactly what they are doing and who they are looking for. Which may suggest that an informant has provided information to the Special Branch about Mrs Bamjee’s actions.
Thanks so much this is really helpful
Thanks Lissa. I’m glad I was able to help you.
There is a line that says during Mrs Bamjee and Mr Bamjee’s verbal exchange “The children looked expectantly, unalarmed and interested at Bamjee” Can you explain what was the reason for this reaction
Thanks for the comment Thandi. The children appear to be more supportive of Mrs Bamjee than they are of Mr Bamjee. He seems to be the only one in the family who has a problem with the duplicating machine being in the house. That might be why the children are unalarmed and interested in what Mr Bamjee might have to say.
Discuss the significance of these papers to Mrs bamjee .
Which papers? If you mean the printed pamphlets then they are very important to Mrs Bamjee. She is prepared to go to prison and even die in order to support the anti-apartheid movement.
How is Mr bamjee differed from his wife
How does the title “A Chip of Glass Ruby” align with the story itself?
Gordimer may be suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light (chip of glass ruby shining) in a dark place (apartheid).
What are the themes of the story?
Thanks for the comment Hanedzani. The themes of the story are sacrifice, prejudice, selfishness, justice, commitment and apartheid.
1.Sacrifice
2.Racial Prejudice
3.commitment
4.Love/compassion
5.selfishnesss
Hey, gyz what is Girlie’s real name?
Thanks for the comment Chumani. Girlie’s real name is Fatima.
Jimmy was ridiculed in the class by Mr Petersen
Thanks for the comment Millz. Mr Peterson does not like what Mrs Bamjee is doing so he ridicules Jimmy.
What is the meant by the word”hunger strike”
A hunger strike is an action taken by an individual in protest at something. In this case Mrs Bamjee refuses to eat food while in prison. Such are her strong feelings about apartheid.
Did Mrs Bamjee do anything in the anti apartheid movement other than using the duplicating machine to produce leaflets? I think there were some other things that I didn’t catch in the book.
Thanks for the comment Randall. Mrs Bamjee at one time before she started using the duplicating press wrote the minutes for meetings she attended with others who supported the anti-apartheid movement. Mrs Bamjee was also part of the South African Indian Congress.
Is the title of the story suitable if so how if not how?
Thanks for the comment Manana. The title of the story may be suitable as Gordimer could be suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light (chip of glass ruby shining) in a dark place (apartheid).
What’s the plot of the story?
Thanks for the comment Elizabeth. The plot of the story is an Indian woman living in South Africa (Mrs Bamjee) supports the anti-apartheid movement and dedicates her time to informing others of the perils of the apartheid system. She has the backing of her children though she does not receive the support of her husband. She owns a printing press and publishes anti-apartheid material and is discovered by the police to be doing so. For her actions Mrs Bamjee ends up going to prison. Where she decides to go on hunger strike at which point her husband understands what drives his wife and he begins to support her.
To what apartheid group do the Bamjees belong? How do you know?
Thanks for the comment Smangele. As far as I can work out Mrs Bamjee is a member of the South African Indian Congress who were involved in defiance campaigns during the struggles against apartheid. The South African Indian Congress also formed alliances with other movements. The reason we know this is because as readers we can see that Mr Bamjee after Mrs Bamjee is arrested by the police notices Congress rosettes.
Also if you’re reading the story using the Changes collection on page 25 there is a footnote at the bottom of the page which tells you about the South African Indian Congress.
Describe what comes “hidden, in a wash basket in a black man’s taxi”, and tell what exactly is used for?
The duplicating press comes in the taxi. It is used to print anti-apartheid leaflets by Mrs Bamjee.
Describe the kids activities that first night and explain why are we told about their activities in such detail?
The children are all in the same room as Mrs Bamjee. They look on as the duplicating machine arrives and they are unalarmed. It is possible that by being unalarmed the children are in support of Mrs Bamjee.
Good analysis
Thanks Simo.
What is the setting of the story?
Mrs Bamjee’s home in South Africa during the apartheid era.
What is the plot of the story?
Which word is repeated? What effect does this create?
Thanks for the comment Tseleng. I’m not sure if you mean repeated side by side or mentioned on more than one occasion in the story. If you mean on more than one occasion in the story the word is Group Areas. The significance of repeating the word is that it gives emphasis to what the Group Areas Act was and the conditions non-whites had to live under in South Africa under the apartheid regime.
What is the character of Mrs Bamjee and Mr Bamjee?
Mrs Bamjee is an Indian woman who is part of the anti-apartheid movement. She looks after her children from her previous marriage and Mr Bamjee’s children too. While at the same time printing anti-apartheid leaflets by way of the duplicating press. Mr Bamjee is also Indian and is Mrs Bamjee’s husband. It is only at the end of the story that he supports Mrs Bamjee’s actions. Something that is noticeable symbolically when he refuses to eat his dinner at home while Mrs Bamjee is on hunger strike in prison.
How does the title relate to the story?
Thanks for the comment Njabs. Gordimer may be suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light (chip of glass ruby shining) in a dark place (apartheid). It is also possible that Gordimer is using the colour of a ruby (usually red) to suggest symbolically the idea that Mrs Bamjee is prepared to give her life (or blood) in her fight against apartheid.
Why would bamjee sometimes speak out loud to himself?
What page is that on Tshego?
Ok thanx for answering my first question. I have the second question. Why does Mr Bamjee feel so resentful about his wife’s arrest? The other question. How does the painting of Taj Mahal reflect what is happening in the story? Is the comparison effective and why?
Mr Bamjee may feel resentful because he does not like the independent streak that Mrs Bamjee is showing. He might believe that it undermines his authority and if anything Mr Bamjee may feel that Mrs Bamjee has brought trouble on the family. The painting of the Taj Mahal is there because Mr and Mrs Bamjee come from India. It is most likely used to remind both Mr and Mrs Bamjee of their heritage. In that way it may be effective. Particularly for Mr Bamjee who views himself as an Indian rather than as a South African. Mrs Bamjee on the other hand can identify with South Africans (black South Africans) hence her role in the anti-apartheid movement.
What do u think gave purpose to Mrs Bamjee’s life?
Thanks for the comment Remo. Mrs Bamjee seems to be driven by her love for her family and her desire to fight the injustices of apartheid.
How does a campaign take place ‘underground’ if leaders are arrested and offices are closed down?
Mrs Bamjee is an example of a campaign being able to continue despite the leaders of the movement being arrested and the offices closed down. Rather than being public things are done in secret or underground. That’s why Mrs Bamjee has the duplicating press. So she can continue to get the anti-apartheid message out onto the streets.
That’s all I wanted to know. Thank you for your help. I really appreciate it.
You’re welcome Tshego.
What was the chip of grass ruby and what did it symbolise for Mrs Bamjee.
The chip of glass ruby was a piece of jewelry that Mrs Bamjee’s mother gave her when she was a girl. Mrs Bamjee considered it too old-style.
summary of the story?
A short summary of the story would be. An Indian woman (Mrs Bamjee) living in South Africa and who is part of the anti-apartheid movement has a duplicating press. Much to the annoyance of her husband (Mr Bamjee). The police come to her house and arrest her and she is sent to prison. When in prison she goes on hunger strike and her husband begins to realise how important his wife’s feelings are when it comes to apartheid.
Find examples both historically, politically and literally in the story that indicate the time frame of the story.
The story takes place during the apartheid regime in South Africa. The reason we know this is because the Group Areas Act (1950) is still in place. It’s difficult to say the precise year that the story is set but the fact that Mrs Bamjee is using a duplicating press instead of a photocopier or printer suggests that the story takes place prior to the photocopier being invented. The photocopier was invented in 1938 but didn’t make it onto the market till 1959. This suggests that the story most likely is set in the 1950s.
Identity the things that transformed Girlie into a modern day woman?
As for the transformation that made Girlie a modern day woman. Girlie has her own job which suggests she is independent of others. She also has her own home. Girlie’s independence seems to stem from her mother (Mrs Bamjee) who is also free thinking and independent.
What realisation came to Mr Bamjee on his birthday ? How do we know this from the story.
On what page of the story does it mention Mr Bamjee’s birthday?
How did different members of the family react to Mrs Bamjee’s arrest and hunger strike?
What is the theme of the story?
The central theme of the story is sacrifice with sub themes including prejudice, selfishness, justice, commitment and apartheid.
Discuss the relationship between Mr and Mrs Bamjee
Mr and Mrs Bamjee though they live together live separate lives. They are independent of each other or at least they seem to be. Mr Bamjee goes to work everyday and Mrs Bamjee looks after the younger children while at the same time continuing her activities with for the anti-apartheid movement.
Similarities and differences of Mrs Zanip Bamjee and Mr Yusuf Bamjee
Mrs Bamjee and Mr Bamjee have one thing in common. They are both strong willed. Mrs Bamjee with her activities for the anti-apartheid movement and Mr Bamjee with his belief that Mrs Bamjee has done and is doing something wrong. Their differences are the fact that not only does Mr Bamjee not think what Mrs Bamjee is doing is right. But he does not support Mrs Bamjee. Not till the end of the story.
I’m helping my son with his homework. All your answers to understand the story are helpful
Thanks Phumla. I’m glad that you are finding some benefit from the post and comments.
Can you give me 2 examples from extract that show Bamjees are not wealthy.
The Bamjees (nine children and Mr and Mrs Bamjee) live in a four room house. They have a dining room and the other three rooms are used as bedrooms. Also one of the children is going to a party and has nothing to wear. Mrs Bamjee suggests the child goes to Girlie’s home to find something to wear. The home also doesn’t have windows rather it has wire mesh acting as windows. Finally rather than having fresh carnations in the vase Mrs Bamjee has two plastic carnations. Which would suggest Mrs Bamjee cannot afford flowers to decorate the house.
Identify and discuss theme in line 16-20 of extract plz
Those particular lines appear to deal with the arrival of the duplicating press and the fact that it arrives hidden in a wash-basket. Gordimer may be suggesting that due to the seriousness of what Mrs Bamjee is doing. Things had to be kept secret.
In your opinion, was Mrs Bamjee imprisoned because of natives as her husband claims?
No, she was imprisoned because of duplicating pamphlets/leaflets using duplicator machine to support ant-apartheid. This was illegal.
Is it correct ?
Yes you are correct. As readers we never know how the police discovered that Mrs Bamjee had a duplicating machine. Mr Bamjee is assuming she was reported by natives but this may not be the case. There is no proof that it was natives.
Thanks so far. Last question. In your opinion was Mrs Bamjee imprisoned because of the natives as her husband claims. Discuss your views.
My answer is No its because police found duplicating machine that Mrs Bamjee uses to print leaflets and this was against the law
You’re correct. There is no proof that natives reported Mrs Bamjee. Mr Bamjee is assuming it was natives but he can’t back his assumption up with evidence.
Explain how Mr Bamjee and Jimmy react differently when they realise that Mrs Bamjee is about to be arrested.
Mr Bamjee is angry and blames Mrs Bamjee for her actions. While Jimmy is supportive even going as far as packing his mother’s suitcase for her.
explain why bamjee would react with sudden terror if he overslept
It might be because he was afraid that he would miss out on a day’s work. Though in the story the sudden terror that Mr Bamjee feels thinking he has overslept is due to the fact that he hears the police in the home however he thinks it might be intruders.
discuss how bamjee’s character changes in the presence of the visitors and when they are gone
Mr Bamjee is polite and at times in awe of the people who come to visit Mrs Bamjee. However after they leave Mr Bamjee gives out to Mrs Bamjee for continuing her anti-apartheid operations.
Bamjee and Jimmy react differently to Ahmed’s experience. Explain how they react
Bamjee is not supportive of Ahmed and feels sorry for himself and blames Mrs Bamjee for the trouble that Ahmed got into in school. Jimmy on the other hand is supportive of Ahmed.
refer to line 19-20 they made an example of him
is it fair for the teacher to make such an example in class
It would be unfair of any teacher to single out a student and ridicule them.
explain why the following statement is true
bamjee works hard to support his family
Mr Bamjee does work hard for his family. Getting up each morning and starting his job as a street vendor. He wants to provide for his family even if he does disagree with Mrs Bamjee’s actions.
Explain Mr Bamjee’s reaction when he learns of what happened to Ahmed at school
He places the blame for what happened to Ahmed squarely on the shoulders of Mrs Bamjee. If she had not acted as she had done. Ahmed would not have been singled out in class.
refer to line 2 Page 26 ….you see what has been done to me… What is Bamjee referring to in this line
Mr Bamjee is complaining to those people who have come to visit him after Mrs Bamjee has been sent to prison. His number one concern is how he is going to rear the nine children and work his cart. He is not thinking of Mrs Bamjee in prison.
lines 4-8 ‘He had a sudden vision ….had time to learn’
referring to these lines explain why bamjee sees himself as a victim
You seem to be working of an extract. Which I don’t have. What page number in the story are lines 4-8?
Bamjee feels as though there is nothing he can do. He knows how important Mrs Bamjee’s anti-apartheid work is to her and he feels maddened, baffled and hopeless.
In your opinion, how does the the author portray Bamjee’s character to show that he totally depends on his wife in the home front?
One example is the fact that Bamjee relies on Mrs Bamjee to look after the children while he is working. Another example is the fact that it is normal for Mrs Bamjee to have Bamjee’s dinner ready for him after he finishes work.
Using your own words describe the manner in which Bamjee eats,(line 16-18)
You seem to be working of an extract. Which I don’t have. What page number in the story are lines 16-18?
Bamjee does not like black people. Give two e examples which prove that the above statement is true. Refer to the story as a whole
Bamjee thinks that black people should deal with their own problems (Group Areas) and also as far as I can recall he blames natives (black people) for telling the police about the duplicating press.
Refer to Libes 14-15(‘He fell into bed each night like a stone…to its feet’.)
(a)Identify the figure of speech in these lines
(b)How does this figure of speech enhance the description given in these lines?
You seem to be working of an extract. Which I don’t have. What page number in the story are lines 14-15?
The figure of speech that is being used is called a simile. It enhances the description given by placing an emphasis on how heavy the load is that Bamjee feels he is carrying (Mrs Bamjee in prison).
What gift did Mrs Bamjee buy for Mr Bamjee on his birthday?
I’m not sure. I don’t think she bought him a gift. She was in prison when it was Bamjee’s birthday and she told Girlie not to forget it was Bamjee’s birthday. I think her gift to Bamjee was the fact that she was thinking of him on his birthday.
Thanks Dermot.
You’re welcome Olwetu.
I want you to brief me about “Yusuf” character.
To me Yusuf or Bamjee is selfish. He thinks of nobody else in the story but himself. It is only when he feels as though he has lost or is losing Mrs Bamjee that he starts to act and think differently. No longer being selfish.
Compare and contrast Mrs Bamjee and her husband in relation to family responsibility and their personal characters.
Mr Bamjee comes across as being selfish when compared to Mrs Bamjee. He has expectations of Mrs Bamjee (to look after the family) while he goes out to work. He never thinks that maybe he could look after the children and Mrs Bamjee could go out to work. The only person that Mr Bamjee may be responsible to is himself. Also Mrs Bamjee is concerned about black South Africans while Mr Bamjee does not identify with black South Africans. Considering that they should fend for themselves.
Assume you are of the Indian descendants from India to South Africa for tourism. You happened to visit the Bamjee family. When you return home to India, the Indian government ask you to explain the living conditions of the Indians in South Africa.
Taking the Bamjee’s living conditions as an example. They live in a home that is too small for them. They have acclimatized well to their environment but still nonetheless remain relatively poor. With regard to both Mr Bamjee and Mrs Bamjee. Mr Bamjee is not supportive of his wife. Which may be a generalization and might not represent all Indian migrants to South Africa. Overall life is not easy for the Bamjee’s and Mr Bamjee may feel that life is made harder by Mrs Bamjee’s political activities.
What did the police envisage to find in the home of Mr Bamjee?
If Mr Bamjee is to be believed than the police knew they would find the duplicating press. Mr Bamjee feeling as though his wife had been betrayed by someone (natives).
Explain the attitude Mr Bamjee had towards the blacks.
Mr Bamjee believes that black people should fend for themselves. He does not identify with them in any way.
Why did Mrs bamjee apply her physical test against the police?
I’m not sure what physical test you are referring to.
Briefly discuss the effect the group areas have on the lives of the Indians
The Group Areas Act limited property rights for Indians (and others). As far as I know the act also included the segregation of Indians (and others) in urban areas. Though you might need to double check this.
How many bedrooms did the Bamjee’s house have? and how many people resided there. What did this kind of house symbolize during the apartheid?
There are four rooms in the house. Three of which are used as bedrooms. In total eleven people live in the house. Nine children and Mr and Mrs Bamjee. The fact that the house is so small may suggest that non-whites were segregated in the one area. Restricted as to where they live. It is also possible that the fact that the house is so small that Gordimer is highlighting that the Bamjee’s lived in poverty.
Hey thanx.
You’re welcome.
1.What type of narration is used in telling story?
2. why did zanip bring a duplicating machine into the house?
3.where had this machine been concealed when it was brought into the home ?
4.How does Mr Bamjee make a living ?
5.Early on the reader is made aware of the conflict between Mr and Mrs Bamjee ,what is the causes of this conflict ?
1. Third person narrator.
2. To print leaflets in support of the anti-apartheid movement.
3. It was delivered to the home by taxi.
4. As far as I know he is a street vendor but you might need to double check this.
5. Mr Bamjee does not think that Mrs Bamjee should get involved with the anti-apartheid movement.
1.What do you learn about Zanip’s character from the fact that she can converse with both the most prominent Indian’s in the community and also with the most ordinary black women?
2.Why does yunsy yell at his wife when the special Branch had come to arrest?
3.Two reason why Mr Bamjee mocks his step daughter Girlie ?
4.Why did Girlie pay Yusaf a visit in the early morning reasons?
5.Mr Bamjee learns of the things that attracted him to Mrs Bamjee mention two of those qualities?
1. Zanip is able to think of others. She has empathy for people and is able to identify with them.
2. He may have felt as though she was bringing trouble onto the family.
3. I’m not sure Yusaf does mock Girlie. At least I can’t seem to find it in the story. If he doe mock her it might because he is hurting over the fact that Zanip is in jail. You’ll need to give me the page number where the incident takes place.
4. It was Yusaf’s birthday.
5. She was a good plain Moselm woman who stamped her own chillies. She was also not a modern woman who wore long skirts. (Double check this).
Describe the kids’ activities that first night and explain why we are told about their activities in such detail?
The children are in the living room listening to Mr Bamjee giving out about the duplicating machine. The fact that we are told this is probably two fold. Firstly because there is no privacy in the house (it’s too small) and secondly they might be used to Mr Bamjee giving out to Mrs Bamjee about the anti-apartheid movement. Mr Bamjee does not support the movement.
What reason does girlie give for her mother always remembering others?
It is because Mrs Bamjee doesn’t want anybody to be left out.
What does Mr Bamjee learn in the closing paragraphs of the story?
Mr Bamjee realises that he needs Mrs Bamjee more than he thought he did and admits to himself that he loves her. He also begins to understand why Mrs Bamjee acted as she did. Mrs Bamjee doesn’t forget anybody.
In the story ordinary people are willing to sacrifice their comfort to stand up against injustice. Discuss your opinions on this statement.
I would say this statement would be true when it comes to Mrs Bamjee. She is prepared to sacrifice her freedom in order to help others.
Consider the story as whole, show how the character of Mr Bamjee changes.
At the beginning of the story Mr Bamjee has no understanding or appears to wish to not understand Mrs Bamjee’s actions. However by the end of the story Mr Bamjee realises that Mrs Bamjee is dedicated to helping others. When the police arrive to arrest Mrs Bamjee. Mr Bamjee is not supportive of her. Yet when she goes on hunger strike it is noticeable that Mr Bamjee pushes his own food away rather than eat it. This could further suggest (symbolically) that Mr Bamjee is beginning to support Mrs Bamjee and the cause of anti-apartheid.
When the narrator says Mr Bamjee “Shrugged over it”,he mean Bamjee feels…?
(a) Convinced
(b) Satisfied
(c) Puzzled
(d) Sympathetic
Explain why Mr Bamjee feels this way.
What page number of the story is that line on?
So girlie and Jimmy were against what their father was saying to their mother
Yes that’s right.
In the opening essay, Head describes some of the problems faced by the people who live in the rural “desert and semi-desert places” of Botswana. List some of the problems she mentions
Poverty, drought, babies dying of starvation and malnutrition.
1)what does she say that these people have, on the more positive side?
2)in the first story, what simile is used in the first line to describe the old woman?
3)How did the speaker assist the old woman?
4)How did the woman’s family thank her?
5)”The last paragraph of this story gives some idea of how people cope with the sun” explain please.
1. They have immense humanity and are gentle.
2. A thin stork of corn in the wind.
3. She feeds the old woman
4. Her daughter gave the speaker a pail of water.
5. Can you give me the first line of the paragraph so I can look it up.
When was the story set? Like what year?
The story takes place during the apartheid regime in South Africa. The reason we know this is because the Group Areas Act (1950) is still in place. It’s difficult to say the precise year that the story is set but the fact that Mrs Bamjee is using a duplicating press instead of a photocopier or printer suggests that the story takes place prior to the photocopier being invented. The photocopier was invented in 1938 but didn’t make it onto the market till 1959. This suggests that the story most likely is set in the 1950s.
What are characters and their characteristics in the story?
There are four or five characters in the story but Mr and Mrs Bamjee would be the two most important. Mr Bamjee is a selfish man who does not support Mrs Bamjee. While Mrs Bamjee is a strong independent woman who believes in justice for all. Hence her involvement in the anti-apartheid movement. The minor characters would be Dr Khan a supporter of Mrs Bamjee’s activities and Jimmy and Girlie. Mrs Bamjee’s children. They too are supportive of Mrs Bamjee.
1.A duplicate machine know as what?
2.Mrs Bamjee divorce her husband or what explain.
3.What the use of ink bottle? 4.Mention Mrs Bamjee character?
1. Similar to a modern day photocopier. Mrs Bamjee used it to duplicate anti-apartheid leaflets.
2. No Mrs Bamjee is not divorced. She is in prison.
3. I don’t recall any mention of an ink bottle but it may be used for the duplicating machine (You’ll need to double check this).
4. Mrs Bamjee is a warm, kind,caring and unselfish person. She appears to put others before herself.
What is the occupation of Mrs Bamjee?
As far as a I know she is a full time housewife.
About that irony, isn’t it that the duplicating was no good as it is said hence it was used for political issue which let the wife to jail.?
I don’t understand your question. The duplicating machine worked fine.
Explain how the family in the story come to be compose of nine “nine” Bamjee and Pahad .children
Both Mr Bamjee and Mrs Bamjee have children from previous relationships.
They did not telling them twise. Explain what has happened.
I don’t understand your question.
What does the doll’s house represent?
You’ll find an answer in the post itself here.
1 what does the use of the word “thing” tell us about Mr Bamjee’s attitude toward the machine.
2 why does he feel this way?
3 Explain the irony in Mr Bamjee response his wife’s activities.
1. Mr Bamjee does not support the use of the duplicating machine.
2. He feels that black South Africans should fend for themselves.
3. I don’t know the answer to this question. Perhaps Mr Bamjee doesn’t realise that he is also being helped by his wife (double check this).
Mr Bamjee wonders why he married this window with five children. What does he conclude at the end of the school?
Mr Bamjee realises that he loves Mrs Bamjee despite her actions.
1. Explain both the Literal and Figurative meaning of the tittle of this short story
2. Do you feel sorry for Mr Bamjee and his children in this extract.Discuss your views
1. Literal meaning might be literally a piece of glass from a glass ruby. Figurative might mean that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light just as a ruby might shine.
2. What extract?
1. How does the title relate to story?
2. The effectiveness of the theme?
1. Gordimer may be suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light (chip of glass ruby shining) in a dark place (apartheid). It is also possible that Gordimer is using the colour of a ruby (usually red) to suggest symbolically the idea that Mrs Bamjee is prepared to give her life (or blood) in her fight against apartheid.
2. There are several themes. Are you referring to one in particular?
Thanks is this the summary of the story and the theme, where can I find the questions
If you’re looking for questions why not go through the questions asked in the comments.
What does the chip of glass ruby symbolize in Mrs. Bamjee’s life and how does it link to the story?
If you read this comment here it might help. Also this comment here could help you.
1.To what Apartheid group do the Bamjee belong?How do you know
2.describe what comes “Hiden in Wash basket in a black Man’s Taxi”and tell what activities in such detail
3.describe the Kids Activity that first night and explain are we told about their activities in such detail?
4.How does the current Mrs Bamjee differ from the Girl she was?
5.describe the visitors to the Bamjee home How does the Way his wife relates to them influence his view of his wife
1. I’ve answered this question before. You’ll find an answer here.
2. I’ve answered this question before. You’ll find an answer here.
3. I’ve answered this question before. You’ll find an answer here.
4. I’m not really sure. Perhaps the fact that Mrs Bamjee no longer wears a chip of glass ruby in her nose may suggest she is no longer following the traditions she did when she was a girl. You may need to read the story for a complete an thorough answer to this question.
5. From memory I’m not sure. Perhaps Mr Bamjee is bad-tempered about the whole thing and doesn’t agree with Mrs Bamjee doing what she is doing.
6.Does Bamjee share his wife’s interest in politics? motivate your answer
7.What does the Message Mrs Bamjee send to girlie tell us about Mrs Bamjee and her relationship with her children?
8.How does Mrs Bamjee get her husbands mind off of the scary fact Dr Khan was arrested ?
6. No. He believes that black South Africans should fend for themselves rather than Mrs Bamjee getting involved.
7. Working from memory. That Mrs Bamjee cares about her children. You will need to double check this answer.
8. She begins to make a dress for one of her daughter. Something which preoccupies and disarms Mr Bamjee.
9.Mr Bamjee Wonders why he married this Widow with five children. what does he conclude at this point in the story?
10.what happens when the government finds out about Mrs Bamjee’s activities?
11.on page 26 it says “Ma is there because things like this happen”
11.1 What is meant by “Things like this”?
11.2 Explain how things like this led to their mother?
12.why exactly is Mr Bamjee beffled Mad and Hopeless?
13.Mr Bamjee says “What Importance is my birthday while she’s sitting there in Prison
13.1 What is Fatima’s Answer?
13.2 He reply Answer another of his question .which one ?what is the answer?
9. He realises that he loves her.
10. She is arrested and put in prison.
11.1 Not in the version of the story I’m reading. Can you give me the context?
11.2 Same as 11.1.
12. Where does it say that Mr Bamjee is baffled, mad and hopeless?
13.1 Mrs Bamjee remembers everyone (paraphrasing). You’ll need to read the story for the exact phrasing.
13.2 I don’t understand the question.
1. The speech of one of the two characters below shows a racist world view, the other shows humanism ,or Ubuntu, link each speaker with a view of the world
…Bamjee said, isn’t it enough that you’ve got the Indians troubles on your back? Mr’s Bamjee said, with a smile that showed the gap of a missing tooth but was confident all the same, What’s the difference, Yusuf? We’ve got all the same troubles.
1. Mr Bamjee has a racist point of view in the sentence while Mrs Bamjee’s view would be considered the view of a humanist.
1. What did Mr Bamjee do for a living?
2 Where had the duplicating machine been concealed when it was brought into the home?
1. Street vendor or hawker
2. In a taxi.
Referring to page 23 .
Paragraph 2
“Although she was not surprised, her hands shook like a very old person’s as she undid the locks and the complicated catch on the wire burglar-proofing .
a) identify the figure of speech
b) explain how this figure of speech contributes to the meaning of these lines.
a) Simile.
b) It may be case that Mrs Bamjee despite being courageous in her actions is also afraid and as such shakes as an old person might.
Explain the irony of Mrs Bamjee’s arrest by two coloured policemen
It is ironic that Mrs Bamjee is arrested by two coloured policemen as she is attempting to get equality for coloured people.
It doesn’t have a download option
You’re right but you can print the post.
What happens at the end of the story?
The end of the stroy is open-ended. The reader never knows for sure what happens Mrs Bamjee.
oh yea i now see. Wow thanks you were really helpful.
Glad to be able to help you.
What evidence is there in the story that Mr Bamjee can be self centered
Mr Bamjee shows Mrs Bamjee no support when it comes to her anti-apartheid activities.
Throughout the story Mr Bamjee acts selfishly when it comes to Mrs Bamjee’s interests (anti-apartheid activities). Also he wonders who will cook his meals for him when Mr Bamjee is in prison and who will look after the children.
Why exactly is Mr Bamjee “baffled,mad and hopeless”?
Bamjee feels as though there is nothing he can do. He knows how important Mrs Bamjee’s anti-apartheid work is to her and he feels maddened, baffled and hopeless.
why Mrs bamjee get arrested??and how many children mrs bamjee have before her get married
Mrs Bamjee had a duplicating machine in which she used to print anti-apartheid leaflets. I think she had five child before she got married to Mr Bamjee. Though you might like to double check that.
What activities occupy Mrs Bamjee’s time and energy in a chip of glass ruby
Mrs Bamjee spends her time looking after her family (children and Mr Bamjee) and also devotes her energies to the anti-apartheid movement.
Where had the duplicating machine been concealed when it was bought into the home?
In a taxi.
Can you please briefly describe the character of girlie
Girlie appears to be as strong and as independently minded as Mrs Bamjee. She has her own job and home and does not appear to be reliant on others.
When Zanip goes off to prison how does Mr Bamjee’s role change ?
He realises that he has to be more responsible for his children (looking after them). Also he appears to develop a conscience and regrets how he may have felt about Zanip’s role with the anti-apartheid movement.
1 briefly outline the events that lead to Mrs Bamjees arrest
2 Was Paul Mr and Mrs Pahads first born??
3 How does attending the meeting with Natives have good and bad consequences ??
4 Discuss why the title of this short story is relevant??
I would need to read the story again to answer your questions.
Did mr bamjee visit his wife in prison?
No he didn’t.
Thank you the site is useful.
You’re welcome.
what does the narrator mean when she says “and the children turned on it too, their black eyes surrounded by thick lashes like those still flowers with hairy tentacles that close on whatever touches them” pg 20
It may be a case that Gordimer is suggesting the effects of the duplicating machine will not only be felt by Mrs Bamjee but by the children too.
How many children did Bamjee have excluding the five Pahad children?
There are a total of ten children. Pahad had five and Bamjee had five.
How is Mrs Bamjee described in this story?
As a kind, hard-working woman who puts others before herself.
Which theme is evident in the line? “You know as well as I do, your are not allowed to talk to them”
It’s difficult to work out the theme from one line without knowing anything else. Perhaps the line refers to apartheid.
Thank you guys this is really helpful..
You’re welcome. I’m glad you found the post helpful.
One of the themes is sacrifice , can you briefly explain this theme ?
I outline the theme of sacrifice in both the first and last paragraph of the post. Mrs Bamjee is an unselfish woman who is focused on helping others and is prepared to sacrifice her freedom in order to help others.
Would you please explain the theme suffering , apartheid and commitment
Suffering – Black people in South Africa were treated as unequal to white people during apartheid. Mrs Bamjee thinks this is wrong and wants to help black people. To help them have a voice. She suffers for her beliefs and ends up in prison.
Apartheid – The story is set during the apartheid era. For a closer inspection of what apartheid is you can find an answer here and here.
Commitment – Mrs Bamjee, Jimmy and Girlie are committed to the anti-apartheid cause. Mrs Bamjee is prepared to suffer the loss of her own freedom in order to help others.
Suffering – Black people in South Africa were treated as unequal to white people during apartheid. Mrs Bamjee thinks this is wrong and wants to help black people. To help them have a voice. She suffers for her beliefs and ends up in prison.
Apartheid – The story is set during the apartheid era. For a closer inspection of what apartheid is you can find an answer here and here.
Commitment – Mrs Bamjee, Jimmy and Girlie are committed to the anti-apartheid cause. Mrs Bamjee is prepared to suffer the loss of her own freedom in order to help others.
Thank you I have a better understanding now, I’m writing tomorrow English p2.
Good luck with your English paper.
1. How many bedrooms did they have?
2. What does the house symbolise?
1. There are four rooms in the house. Three of which are used as bedrooms
2. It may symbolise poverty. I’m not sure I would need to read the story again to get a clearer picture.
What is the significance of the title?
It could have several meanings. Some of which might include that Gordimer may be suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light (chip of glass ruby shining) in a dark place (apartheid). It is also possible that Gordimer is using the colour of a ruby (usually red) to suggest symbolically the idea that Mrs Bamjee is prepared to give her life (or blood) in her fight against apartheid.
Don’t the Bamjees have biological kids together?
Would it be right to say Mrs Bamjee is a Politician and Mr Bamjee is a street vendor?
I don’t think they do have biological kids together. Mrs Bamjee would be more of a political activist that an politician and you are correct when you suggest that Mr Bamjee is a street vendor.
Which apartheid group do the bamjee’s belong
The South African Indian Congress.
Why does Mr Bamjee fear oversleeping?
From which branch are the policeman and what are they searching for?
Who is Pahad?
What festival is Mrs Bamjee concerned about?
What is the significance of the duplicating machine in te story?
I’m not sure. Maybe he will lose his place in the market.
Special Branch as far as I remember.
I’d need to read the story again to answer this question.
Again I would need to read the story again to answer this question.
The duplicating machine helps spread the message of support for the anti-apartheid movement.
How did Mr Bamjee react to Mrs Bamjee arrest?
First he was annoyed and concerned more about himself and how hew would be able to work and who would look after the children. Later on in the story he takes reflection and is sacred for Mrs Bamjee and thinks of her going on hunger strike.
Why did the duplicating machine arrive in a washing basket and conveyed in a black man’s tax
It was transported that way because it was illegal to have a duplicating machine for the purpose of printing anti-apartheid messages. Secrecy also would have been important. The fewer people who knew what was happening. The better.
Why is Mr Bamjee angry at his wife after she was arrested. Motivate your answer
Two reasons spring to mind. Firstly Mr Bamjee believes that Mrs Bamjee has brought shame onto the family. Secondly Mr Bamjee is now responsible for looking after the children. Something which will effect his job as a street vendor.
Thanks
You’re welcome.
How many children mr and mrs Bamjee have?
There are ten children in total. I don’t think Gordimer specifies how many were Mr Bamjee’s and how many were Mr Bamjee’s (from previous marriage).
They had 4 kids and another five was from Pahad her late husband
What are the children’s eyelashes compared to?
They were compared to open flowers with hairy tentacles.
“we all have the same trouble” what does Mrs Bamjee mean by the “all”?
Perhaps she is suggesting that everyone has a burden to carry and as such everyone is equal.
I think she is referring to the group areas act which also oppress the indians
Thanks Wavhuthu.
What population group do the Bamjees belong??
The Bamjees are Indian.
This has been most helpful – thank you!
That’s great. You’re welcome.
1. Mention three reasons why Mrs Bamjee was arrested.
2. Give two character traits for the foiling characters
-Mrs Bamjee
-Mr Bamjee
-Girlie
3. Explain both the LITERAL and the FIGURATIVE meaning of the title of the short story.
4 Do you feel sorry for Bamjee and his children after the wife’s was arrest? Explain your answer
1. Possession of duplicating press, Supporting anti-apartheid movement, distribution of anti-apartheid material.
2. Mrs Bamjee – Thinks of others and puts them first. Prepared to risk her life in support of her beliefs. Mr Bamjee – Selfish and self-centered. Girlie – Proud of her mother and also helpful to others.
3. Literal – an actual chip in a piece of ruby. Figurative – Mrs Bamjee is a jewel (look at my previous answers to others).
4. Difficult to say. The children will suffer as a result of Mrs Bamjee’s arrest. Also Mr Bamjee does eventually feel remorse about what has happened.
Thanks a lot. I really appreciate it.
You’re welcome.
What are themes message of a chip of glass ruby
You should help your fellow man/woman.
what’s jimmy’s role in “a chip of glass ruby” ?
To support his siblings and his mother.
what is the theme of this story?
The main theme is sacrifice with sub themes of prejudice, selfishness, justice, commitment and apartheid.
What problem does Mr. Bamjee face?
Mr Bamjee faces at least two problems. One of which is who will look after his children while he goes to work and Mrs Bamjee is in prison. The other problem is Mrs Bamjee is on hunger strike and my die. Something which would cause further problems for Mr Bamjee.
Why did the police decide to come at 3 o clock in the morning
In order to surprise Mrs Bamjee. So she could have no time to hide the duplicating machine.
How is Yusuf Bamjee’s indifference to politics conveyed to the reader?
Bamjee doesn’t want to know of the suffering of others. Unlike his wife. He stays clear of any political activity preferring instead to continue working and turning a blind eye to what is happening around him. He also scolds his wife for her activities which shows his contempt for his wife’s involvement in the anti-apartheid movement.
How did the police find out about Zanip’s doings?
Mr Bamjee thinks that an informant may have told the police.
Do you think mr bamjee is justified for not visiting his wife in prison
I don’t thinks he is. He is allowing for his pride and stubbornness to get in the way. Putting himself and his feelings before Mrs Bamjee’s.
Discuss the theme of prejudice which is found on the story
The prejudice discussed in the story refers to the treatment of black people by white people during the apartheid era. Mr Bamjee though not white himself supports the apartheid movement and does not wish to have the spotlight shone on him or his family. Hence his lack of support for Mrs Bamjee’s actions.
Why does Mr Bamjee wake up with a” sudden terror” when the police men come to arrest Mrs Bamjee??
Perhaps because he knows how much trouble Mrs Bamjee is in and how it will effect him.
How does the topic relate to the story
What topic are you referring too?
what causes bamjee’s reaction when he sees policemen in his house
I think it is because Bamjee knows that he will have to look after the children and his life will be affected. Also he may think that Mrs Bamjee has brought shame on the family.
I need help in the events of the story and the attitude of Bamjee and Mrs.Bamjee
Mr Bamjee is against Mrs Bamjee’s work. He shows her no support.
Who is pahad?
There were nine pahad, it means there were additional children from a poor family called pahad.
I would like to know what is a Ruby?
A ruby is a precious stone. Usually dark in colour.
No he doesn’t want equality
Thanks for that insight.
What is it that blacks were instructed to do that Mrs Bamjee was against it during apartheid
I’m not sure. I would need to read the story again to answer your question.
Who is zami?
I would need to read the story again to answer your question.
Describe mrs bamjee and her role
Mrs Bamjee is both a mother and an anti-apartheid activist. She believes in fairness and equality. Hence her feeling so strong (and going on a hunger strike) when it comes to the rights of black people.
Hey. I found your summary helpful but I have one question. What does the bamjee house symbolise?
It can be seen to symbolise both the conflict that came with apartheid and the hope of the anti-apartheid movement
The house symbolizes an economic status
Thanks Nqubek.
Thank you a lot now I can understand more than before you really make things easier for me
That’s great. I’m glad you found the post helpful.
Who is Mr Peterson, Mr Patel, Mr Ebrahim?
As far as I remember they are members, like Mrs Bamjee, of the anti-apartheid movement. You might double check for yourself though.
Do you agree with Mr Khan that Mrs Bamjee is a wonderful woman.
It depends on who you ask. Mr Khan might think so but Mr Bamjee may not necessarily agree. Personally I think Mrs Bamjee is a brave and determined woman.
Mention the good consequences of the meetings held with the natives?
I’m not sure. I’d need to read the story again.
In “A Chip of Glass Ruby,” what is the significance of the conversation between Girlie and Bamgee at the end of the story?
Perhaps it is the fact that Bamjee understands the sacrifices that his wife has made. It is as though there is a change in Bamjee and he is no longer selfish and thinking about himself.
What happened to Mr Bamjee after his wife has passed away?
I don’t recall Mr Bamjee’s first wife being mentioned in the story. Though I could be wrong.
Discuss the irony of the fuss over
I’m sorry I don’t understand the question. The fuss over what?
How many characters in this story?
I’m not sure. I would need to read the story again.
1 Why is the title of the story relevant?
2 Explain why Mrs Bamjee might be feeling compassion for her husband.
1. The title of the story may also have some symbolic significance with Gordimer suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light (chip of glass ruby shining) in a dark place (apartheid). It is also possible that Gordimer is using the colour of a ruby (usually red) to suggest symbolically the idea that Mrs Bamjee is prepared to give her life (or blood) in her fight against apartheid.
2. Mrs Bamjee appears to be compassionate to everyone. Even if they (Mr Bamjee) may be in the wrong. Also by showing compassion to her husband, Mrs Bamjee is showing her love for him.
Today I am writing my exam English paper 2, well reading this summary really helped me. Thank you
I’m glad you found the post helpful. Good luck with your exam.
To what population group do the Bamjee’s belong? How do you know?
The Bamjee’s are Indian. One way you would know is their surname. Also there is a picture of the Taj Mahal in their house. Mrs Bamjee also wears a sari, a traditional Indian garment. The Congress that is mentioned is the South African Indian Congress. Which Mrs Bamjee is a member of.
Describe what comes hidden in a wash basket in a black man’s taxi,and tell what exactly it is used for
Duplicating Machine. Used to print pages or pamphlets.
What is the special branch?
A division of the police.
1.Does Bamjee share his wife’s interest in politics
2.’At once, the snap of trap,realization came’
What emotion does Mr Bamjee experience in this line
Give a reason for your answer
3.Explain why the following statement is false
Prison life has a negative effect on Mr s Bamjees relationship with her family, two reason
4.was Mrs Bamjee imprisoned because of the negative as her husband claims
1. No he stays away from politics.
2. Of feeling confined or trapped in the situation he finds himself in.
3. Girlie remains faithful to Mrs Bamjee and sticks with her and believes in her. While Mr Bamjee realises that regardless of what has happened he loves his wife.
4. No. She was imprisoned because she had a duplicating machine in her possession.
The summer of the story
I’m not sure what you mean.
As if she was pounding chilies is a simile or metaphor
I think it may be a metaphor.
Why did Mr Bamjee marry a widow with 5 children?
I suppose he married her because he loved her.
Thank you
You’re welcome.
Characters nd their occupations please
Mr Bamjee is a street trader while Mrs Bamjee is a housewife.
Explain the literal meaning and figurative meaning of the whole story
I would need to read the story again to answer your question.
What activities occupy Mrs. Bamjee’s time and energy?
Looking after her family and her activities in support of the anti-apartheid movement.
How does the government react to Mrs. Bamjee’s activities?
In your judgement, what are the positive and negative effects of Mrs. Bamjee’s political activities on her family?
The government arrest Mrs Bamjee.
The positive effects are that she has Jimmy and Girlie’s support. While the negative effects might be seen that the children are without their mother.
How did the prisoners hunger strike affect different family members?
Jimmy and Girlie accept the postilion that their mother is in. While Mr Bamjee appears to struggle knowing that his wife is on hunger strike.
Why is Girlie going to Pretoria?
It’s been a while since I read the story but I think she went to Pretoria to visit her mother in prison.
Why did Girlie go to Pretoria?
It’s been a while since I read the story but I think she went to Pretoria to visit her mother in prison.
Why is the following statement false? Jimmy is the eldest child
Girlie is the oldest child.
Explain Bamjee’s reaction when he learns of what happened to Ahmed at school?
Bamjee is not supportive of Ahmed and feels sorry for himself and blames Mrs Bamjee for the trouble that Ahmed got into in school.
Jimmy offers his mother his Green jersey. What does this tell us about the Bamjee family
He supports her and is there for her.
What message does mrs. bamjee send her husband from prison?
She tells Girlie to wish Mr Bamjee Happy Birthday.
1.list each character in the stostory and state wich type they are
2.which word is represented? What effect does this create?
3.what symbolism can be found in the chip of glass ruby?why is this title of the story?
4.list three ways the children show their love for their mother
5.what type does mr and mrs bamjee have
6.whats action does jimmy take
7.”the duplicating machine was gone,explain
I would need to read the story again to answer your questions.
1.Please state the reaction of the children to bamjees verbal exchange with his wife.
I would need to read the story gain to answer your question.
What does the chip of glass ruby actually Symbolize?
I answer that question in an earlier comment.
What are real names of Mrs Bamjee and Mr Bamjee?
Mrs Bamjee’s first name is Zanip. While Mr Bamjee’s first name is Yusaf.
Do you agree with Mr Khan that Mrs Bamjee is a wonderful woman?
I would agree. Mrs Bamjee is acting selflessly and helping others who might not be able to help themselves.
How did different members of the family react to Mrs Bamjee’s arrest and hunger strike?
Nobody liked the fact that Mrs Bamjee got arrested. Mr Bamjee thought only of himself and not Mrs Bamjee. While Jimmy and Girlie stood by Mrs Bamjee’s side.
What is an irony?
You’ll find a definition of irony here.
Do you sympathize with mrs bamjee when she is being arrested? discuss your views
Yes I would sympathize with Mrs Bamjee. She is acting selflessly and helping others and ends up in prison.
To what apartheid group do the bamjees belong
The South African Indian Congress.
At once, the snap of a trap, realization came.
Name the figure of speech and discuss the effect of this figure of speech on the meaning of the line.
The figure of speech is a metaphor. As regards its effect I would need to know what context it was used in.
In your opinion, was Mrs Bamjee imprisoned ‘because of the natives’ as her husband
claims
She was imprisoned because she had a duplicating machine that printed anti-apartheid literature. She was helping black South Africans. Who Mr Bamjee may consider to be natives.
How does the current Mrs Bamjee differ from the girl she was
I’m not sure. I would need to read the story again to answer your question.
Referring to the story as whole give two reasons why the duplicator was brought to Mrs bamjee
1. To help Mrs Bamjee in the struggle against apartheid.
2. Mrs Bamjee may have been viewed upon as a safe house to hold the duplicator.
‘A fine thing to have on the dining room table’
A. Explain the irony in this statement.
B. State one word that describes Bamjee’s tone
A. Bamjee is being not only ironic but sarcastic too. He knows the duplicator is trouble and not ‘a fine thing.’
B. Fine. Again Bamjee is being ironic and sarcastic.
Thank you so much
You’re welcome.
A.Give one reason why bamjee keeps on asking ‘what for ‘?.
B.state bamjee’s perception of Morden women.
C.he fell into bed each night like a stone, and dragged himself up in the mornings as a beast of burden is beaten to its feet.
*identify the figure of speech in the above sentence.
*how does this figure of speech enhance the description given in these lines?
D.he had a sudden vision of her at the duplicating machine,that night before she was taken away,and he felt himself maddened,baffled and hopeless. He had become the ghost of a victim, hanging about the scene of crime whose motive he could not understand and had not had time to learn.
*referring to these lines,explain why Bamjee sees himself as a victim ?
E.Bamjee does not like black people.
*give two examples which proves that the above statement is true.refer to the story as whole.
I would need to read the story again to answer your questions.
What is the lesson/message of the story? And give your own title if your were Gordimer.
The message is that everyone is equal regardless of their skin colour.
‘Those Who Tried to Help’ would be the title I would chose.
How does a campaign take place underground if leaders are arrested and officers closed down?
Not all leaders are arrested. Many would have duplicating machines to get the message across.
How many bedrooms did they have and what is the literal and figurative meaning of the title?
There are four rooms in the house. Three of which are bedrooms.
I’m not sure of the literal or figurative meaning of the title of the story.
Give one reason why bamjee keeps on asking what for
Probably because he wants to understand Mrs Bamjee’s logic.
Bamjee woke up in the ‘sudden terror’ of having overslept what was the cause of that?
I would need to read the story again to answer your question.
Because he was late to work since he is a vendor
What does the duplicating machine symbolizes in chip of glass ruby?
It may be a case that the duplicating machine symbolizes Mrs Bamjee’s connection with black South Africans.
What is the plot of the story?
The plot of the story is an Indian woman living in South Africa (Mrs Bamjee) supports the anti-apartheid movement and dedicates her time to informing others of the perils of the apartheid system. She has the backing of her children though she does not receive the support of her husband. She owns a printing press (duplicating machine) and publishes anti-apartheid material and is discovered by the police to be doing so. For her actions Mrs Bamjee ends up going to prison. Where she decides to go on hunger strike at which point her husband understands what drives his wife and he begins to support her.
Where have the duplicating machine been concealed when it was brought into the home?
I’m not sure.
Briefly outline the events that lead to Mrs. Bamjee’s arrest
Mrs Bamjee was arrested because she had a duplicating machine. She planned on printing anti-apartheid material.
Why was the duplicating machine brought to mrs bamjee
So that Mrs Bamjee could print anti-apartheid material.
Why would bamjee wake up with sudden terror when he overslept
I’m not sure. I would need to read the story again to answer your question.
Who are the “native” that the woman is being arrested for?
Black South Africans.
Who are the “native” that the woman is being arrested for?
Black South Africans.
2. 1. 2 what is the significance of the fur coat in this short story?
2. 1. 3 Refer to lines 6-7 Molly jumped up… Basket of mending at him.’
Explain why Molly react in this way?
2. 1. 4 Refer to lines 8-9 ‘And like all the Irish… a peasant streak in you. ‘
a) Identify the figure of speech in the above lines.
b)Discuss the effectiveness of this figure of speech.
2. 1. 5 Refer to line 15 I’ll go to the garden party in a mackintosh. ‘
a) identify the speakers tone in the above line.
b) why does the speaker use this tone?
2. 1. 6 One of the themes in this story is selfishness.
Discuss how this theme is evident in this story.
You’re working off an extract I don’t have access to.
1. 1. 3 Refer to line 1 (At once, a snap of a trap realisation came ).
a)Identify the figure of speech in this line.
b) Explain why this figure of speech is relevant in this extract
You’re working off an extract I don’t have access to.
What is meant by ” The sound of commonplaces often does service as security” p22 last paragraph
Being familiar with things helps to allay a person’s worries.
What did mrs Bhamjee mean when she “leave it” when the police were about to take her away?
I’m really not sure. I would need to read the story again.
Which group of people in the prison took part in the hunger strike?
The anti-apartheid group.
who is Mr Ebrahim?
A friend of Mrs Bamjee’s who is also a part of the anti-apartheid movement.
Mrs Bamjee is a good person, wife and mother. Discuss.
Mrs Bamjee is able to maintain and run her home in a good manner while at the same time devote herself to the anti-apartheid movement.
What type of character is Girlie?explain
I would say Girlie is wise, particularly when she is talking to Mr Bamjee. She understands Mrs Bamjee’s struggles.
explain the difference in mr Bamjee’s personality, towards his children and then towards visitors
2. How did the prison’s hunger strike affect the different family members
3.what type of a relationship does mr and mrs bamjee have
4.what actions does Jimmy take?whose role is he taking
5.”The children kept to their lair”
(A)what figure of speech is being used
B)why did the children keep out of the way
6.what is the moral of the story
I would need to read the story again to answer your questions.
What evidence is there in the story that Mr bamjee can be self centred?
Mr Bamjee does not support the anti-apartheid movement. He doesn’t support Mrs Bamjee.
what do we learn about mrs bamjee ability to deal with people from the following extract
To what apartheid group do the Bamjees belong? And how fo you know?
The Bamjees are Indian and belong to the South African Indian Congress.
What are meaning of difficult word in the story
What is the sympolism of the story
The title of the story may have some symbolic significance with Gordimer suggesting that Mrs Bamjee is a shining light (chip of glass ruby shining) in a dark place (apartheid). It is also possible that Gordimer is using the colour of a ruby (usually red) to suggest symbolically the idea that Mrs Bamjee is prepared to give her life (or blood) in her fight against apartheid.
Can u give me five word that are difficult in the story
Explain both the LITERAL and FIGURATIVE meaning of the title of this
short story.
Why exactly is Mr Bamjee “baffled, mad and hopeless”?
why does Mr bamjee fear oversleeping
The story was interesting and it got meaningful
What is Mr Bamjee’s tone in line 17 where it says “a fine thing to have on the dining-room table”?
What is the conflict of the story?
What is the culturalization?
How did politics affect this family?
What does Mr bamjee learn in the closing paragraphs of the story?
Give two reasons why the duplicate was brought to Mrs Bamjee
Do you think the children sympathise more with Mr Banker?
1)state which group of people in the prison took part in the hunger strike
2)why is mrs bamjee arrested
1. I think it is members of the South African Indian Congress who go on hunger strike.
2. For her possession of a duplicating machine.
How many bedrooms in Bamjees house and how many children do they have
Mrs Bamjee worked the duplicator”as if she might have been pounding chillies”.what does simile tell the reader about the two aspect of Mrs Bamjee’s life?
What evidence is there in the story that Mr Bamjee can be self-centred
“The duplicating machine was gone ” what does this symbolise
Was Mrs bamjee politically active before she met Mr bamjee
What does it means when Mrs Bamjee was pounding chilles?
At Bamjees house
Can u explain the the story
Two Character traits of Mrs Bamjee
What causes bamjees reactions when sees the policeman in his house?
(‘at once,the snap of a trap.realization came’)
What kind of emotion is mr bamjee expiriencing
What did mrs bumjee do for a living
Mrs bumjee worked the duplicator “as if she might have been pounding chillies”.what does the simile tell the readers about the two aspects of mrs bumjee’s life?
Using your own words describe the manner in which bamjee eats
Looking at line 16-18(page 27~he was wolfing bread and strong tea…)
Bamjee s perception of a modern woman
Who were the natives ? What were they fighting for ? Why did mrs bamjee feel the need to help them ? How did mrs bamjee get arrested and how her family took it ?
What can you suggest about Mr Bamjee’s attitude towards his family?
Who seems braver in the story? Mr Bamjee or the children? Explain
What happened to Mrs Bamjee at the end of the story?
What does the use of word thing tell the reader about Mr bamjee’s attitude towards the machine
I to what population group do the Bamjees belong and how do you know
What is the significance of the duplicating machine
Why was mr bamjee flattered?
Thank you .
What evidence is there in the story that Mr Bumjee can be self centerd?
What is symbolic about the small house the Bamjee live in?
1. What is symbolic about Mr Peterson who teases Ahmed at school about his mother’s arrest?
2. Do you think Mr Bamjee was right for not involving himself in his wife’s political activities?
What is the moral of the story A Chip of glass ruby