The Boy Comes Home – A. A. Milne
Introduction
A. A. Milne (1882–1956) was an English author and playwright, best known for creating Winnie-the-Pooh. "The Boy Comes Home" is a one-act play included in the NEB Class 11 English syllabus. It humorously explores generational conflict and the impact of war on young people.
Summary
The play follows Philip, a young man who returns home after serving in World War I. His uncle James expects to control Philip’s future, but Philip’s wartime experiences have made him independent and assertive. Through a dream sequence, the play satirizes the clash between old and new values, ending with a mutual understanding.
Detailed Summary
"The Boy Comes Home" is a one-act play that centers on Philip, a young man who returns home after serving in World War I. He lives with his strict Uncle James and gentle Aunt Emily. Uncle James expects Philip to follow his plans for the family business, but Philip’s experiences in the war have made him mature, confident, and independent. The main conflict arises when Uncle James tries to assert his authority over Philip, but Philip calmly stands his ground.
A key part of the play is a dream sequence in which Uncle James imagines a confrontation with Philip over breakfast and career choices. In the dream, Philip’s military discipline and assertiveness leave Uncle James feeling powerless and confused. When Uncle James wakes up, he realizes that Philip is no longer a boy to be ordered around, but a grown man shaped by the hardships of war.
The play ends with a sense of mutual understanding. Uncle James softens his approach, and Philip’s maturity is recognized. Through humor and sharp dialogue, the play highlights the generational gap, the impact of war on individuals, and the importance of respect and communication within families.
Themes & Analysis
- Generational Conflict: The clash between traditional authority and youthful independence.
- Impact of War: How war changes individuals and society.
- Satire: The use of humor to critique social norms.
Characters
- Philip: The protagonist, a young man changed by war.
- Uncle James: Philip’s controlling uncle.
- Aunt Emily: Philip’s supportive aunt.
Important Vocabulary
- Demobilized: Released from military service.
- Authority: The power to give orders or make decisions.
- Satire: The use of humor to expose flaws in society.
NEB Exam-Style Questions & Answers
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Q:
What is the main conflict in "The Boy Comes Home"?
A: The generational clash between Philip and Uncle James. -
Q:
How does Philip’s experience in the war affect him?
A: It makes him more independent and assertive. -
Q:
What is the significance of the dream sequence?
A: It satirizes the power struggle and leads to understanding. -
Q:
What themes are explored in the play?
A: Generational conflict, impact of war, and satire. -
Q:
Why is this play relevant for students today?
A: It highlights the importance of understanding and adapting to change.
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