Plus Two English The Hour of Truth Notes | Questions & Answers, Character Sketch, Activities, Article & Script

 

THE HOUR OF TRUTH

-        Percival Wilde

 

1. Why was Mr. Gresham arrested?

Mr. Gresham was arrested because he was involved in a financial fraud. He had misappropriated bank funds and committed dishonest business practices. When the fraud was discovered, the authorities arrested him and put him on trial.

---

2. Why didn’t Baldwin explain his position to the papers?

Baldwin did not explain his position to the newspapers because he believed that a man's honour and integrity did not need public justification. He preferred to remain silent rather than seek public sympathy or defend himself through the press.

---

3. What was the change in the attitude of the members of the family when they came to know the amount of the bribe?

Initially, Baldwin's family appreciated his honesty. However, when they learned that the bribe was worth one hundred thousand dollars, they became disappointed and questioned his decision. They felt that he had missed a golden opportunity to secure the family's financial future.

---

4. How did Baldwin react to the opinion of his family?

Baldwin remained calm and firm despite his family's criticism. He refused to compromise his principles for money and declared that honesty, self-respect, and a clear conscience were more valuable than wealth. He was deeply hurt by their attitude but did not change his decision.

---

5. Was Baldwin disloyal to Mr. Gresham? Quote the relevant sentences to support your answer.

No, Baldwin was not disloyal to Mr. Gresham. He remained loyal to his employer by refusing to reveal confidential information even after Mr. Gresham's arrest. At the same time, he would not tell a lie to save him from punishment.

Relevant sentences:

"I wouldn't tell a lie for him."

"But I wouldn't tell the truth against him."

These lines show that Baldwin balanced loyalty with honesty. He neither betrayed his employer nor sacrificed his moral values.

Activity I (Analysis)

Pick out the striking dialogues in the play, as the samples given below, and try to deliver them in front of the whole class. Now, write down the implied meaning of the dialogues in the column.

Striking Expression	Speaker	What does he/she mean?
1.     "Your father will do his duty, John, no matter what comes of it."	Martha	She says that her husband Baldwin is an honest and upright man who will never neglect his duty.
2.     "People have been saying things."	John	He means that people are spreading unpleasant rumours about Baldwin's suspected involvement in the financial fraud.
3.     "I wouldn't tell a lie for him."	Baldwin	He means that he will never sacrifice his honesty, even to protect his employer.
4.     "But I wouldn't tell the truth against him."	Baldwin	He means that he will remain loyal to Mr. Gresham by not revealing confidential information that would harm him.
5.     "I am worth more than a hundred thousand dollars to my family."	Baldwin	He means that his honesty, dignity, and self-respect are more valuable than money.
6.     "You have made me proud of you."	Martha	She expresses her admiration for Baldwin's honesty and moral courage despite their financial difficulties.
7.     "There's nothing after all that can make up for the loss of self-respect."	Baldwin	He means that no amount of wealth or success can replace a person's honour, integrity, and self-respect.

 

Activity II (Write-up)

Prepare a write-up on the opening and ending of the play.

The opening introduces the central conflict of the play. Baldwin's family is deeply worried because people suspect him of being involved in the financial fraud committed by his employer, Mr. Gresham. The gloomy weather outside reflects the tension and anxiety inside the house. Martha, John, and Evie are disturbed by the rumours and fear that Baldwin's honesty may not be enough to save him from disgrace. Thus, the beginning effectively creates suspense and prepares the audience for the moral conflict that follows.

The ending brings a satisfying resolution to the story. Marshall arrives with the good news that Mr. Gresham has confessed the truth. Baldwin's honesty and loyalty are finally recognised and appreciated. His family, who had earlier questioned his decision to reject the huge bribe, realise the greatness of his character. They understand that integrity and self-respect are far more valuable than wealth. The play concludes by celebrating the triumph of truth, honesty, and moral courage over greed and dishonesty.

 

Activity III (Character sketch)

Character Sketch of Robert Baldwin

Robert Baldwin is the protagonist of The Hour of Truth by Percival Wilde. He is a man of exceptional honesty, integrity, and moral courage. As the confidential secretary of Mr. Gresham, Baldwin remains loyal to his employer without compromising his principles.

Baldwin is a truthful and upright person. Even when he is offered a bribe of one hundred thousand dollars, he refuses to accept it because he believes that honesty is more valuable than wealth. He declares that he would neither tell a lie to save Mr. Gresham nor reveal confidential information against him. This shows his rare ability to balance honesty with loyalty.

He is also a man of strong convictions. Although his own family criticises him for rejecting such a huge amount of money, Baldwin does not change his decision. He firmly believes that self-respect and a clear conscience are priceless. His patience, dignity, and determination make him a true hero.

At the end of the play, Baldwin's honesty is rewarded when Mr. Gresham confesses the truth, and his family realises the greatness of his character. Robert Baldwin stands as a symbol of integrity and moral values, teaching us that truth and honour always triumph over greed and dishonesty.

Prepare an article on Corruption curtails the development of a country.

 

Corruption Curtails the Development of a Country

Corruption is one of the greatest obstacles to the progress of any nation. It is the misuse of power or public office for personal gain. When corruption becomes widespread, it weakens the economy, destroys public trust, and prevents a country from achieving sustainable development.

One of the most serious effects of corruption is the misuse of public funds. Money meant for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and welfare programmes is often diverted into private hands. As a result, schools remain poorly equipped, hospitals lack essential facilities, and development projects are delayed or abandoned. This widens the gap between the rich and the poor and lowers the standard of living.

Corruption also discourages investment and economic growth. Honest businesses lose confidence in a system where success depends on bribery and favouritism rather than merit. This reduces employment opportunities and slows industrial and technological progress. Moreover, corruption weakens the rule of law and encourages crime, making society unjust and insecure.

Every citizen has a role in fighting corruption. Governments should ensure transparency, strengthen anti-corruption laws, and punish offenders without discrimination. At the same time, individuals must refuse to give or accept bribes and uphold honesty in their personal and professional lives. Educational institutions should also promote moral values and civic responsibility among young people.

In conclusion, corruption is a serious threat to national development. A country can achieve lasting progress only when its citizens and leaders value honesty, accountability, and integrity. By working together against corruption, we can build a fair, prosperous, and developed nation for future generations.

 

Activity V (Compering)

Script to Introduce the Actors of The Hour of Truth

Good morning, everyone,

It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to today's performance of The Hour of Truth, a thought-provoking one-act play by Percival Wilde. The play highlights the importance of honesty, integrity, and moral courage in the face of temptation.

Now, let me introduce the talented actors who will bring this inspiring story to life.

In the role of Robert Baldwin, the honest and principled protagonist, we have Master Ajith. His unwavering commitment to truth forms the heart of the play.

Playing Martha Baldwin, Robert's loving and supportive wife, is Miss Veena She stands by her husband through difficult times and later recognises the greatness of his character.

The role of John Baldwin, their ambitious son, is performed by Master Rahul His changing attitude towards honesty and wealth adds depth to the story.

Appearing as Evie Baldwin, Robert's daughter, is Miss Aparna She reflects the emotions and concerns of the family during the crisis.

The role of Mr. Marshall, who brings the final good news, is played by Mr Santhosh

Please encourage our performers with your warm applause as they present this inspiring drama on the triumph of truth and integrity.

Thank you, and enjoy the performance!

📺 Watch the Video Lesson

For detailed explanations in Malayalam, visit our YouTube channel.

▶ Subscribe to Blaze Solution