Question

The mention of snakes, rats, and toads in the poem most likely refers to:

• A. The natural wildlife found in India
• B. The Western stereotypes of India
• C. The common pets in Indian households
• D. The traditional folklore of Indian villages

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The Western stereotypes of India

• These animals were often associated with India in Western imaginations, perpetuating exoticized and reductive views of the country, such as the image of India being a land full of snakes and snake charmers.

• In the poem, this imagery is likely used to challenge and critique these stereotypes.