All this was a long time ago,i remember And i would do it again,but set down This set down This:were we led all that way for Birth and Death?There was a Birth,certainly, We had evidence and no doubt.I had seen birth and death, But had thought they were different;this birth was Hard and bitter agony for us,like Death,our death We returned to our places,these kingdoms, But no longer at ease here,in the old dispensation, With an alien people clutching their gods. I should be glad of another death. (From T.S Elliott's 'Journey Of The Magi') The Magi are no longer at ease because

Question 27 of 327

Correct Answer: D

The correct option is D. their kingdoms can no longer offer them satisfaction. Explanation of the Correct Answer:

Contextual Understanding: The excerpt is from T.S. Eliot's poem "Journey of the Magi," which reflects on the journey of the Magi (wise men) to witness the birth of Christ. The poem captures their feelings of disillusionment and existential questioning after experiencing this significant event.
Analysis of the Text:
The lines "But no longer at ease here, in the old dispensation" indicate that the Magi feel uncomfortable or unsettled in their previous lives or kingdoms after witnessing the birth of Christ. The term "old dispensation" refers to the old order or way of life that they once accepted.
The phrase "with an alien people clutching their gods" suggests that the Magi now feel disconnected from the people and beliefs they once knew. They have encountered a profound truth (the birth of Christ) that has altered their perception of their own lives and the world around them.
Emotional and Spiritual Displacement: The Magi's journey has led them to a new understanding of existence, which has rendered their previous lives unsatisfactory. They are no longer content with the values and beliefs of their kingdoms, which they now see as inadequate in light of their new experiences.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. they suffered a lot on their way to Bethlehem:
While the journey may have been arduous, the poem emphasizes the spiritual and existential implications of their experience rather than the physical suffering. The focus is on their internal transformation rather than the hardships of the journey itself.
B. they found greater spiritual satisfaction from their journey:
This option contradicts the overall tone of the excerpt. The Magi do not express satisfaction; instead, they feel a sense of loss and discontent with their previous lives. Their journey has led to a realization that their former beliefs no longer hold meaning for them.
C. death and birth are one and the same thing:
Although the poem explores the themes of birth and death, this option oversimplifies the complexity of the Magi's experience. The Magi recognize the pain associated with birth, equating it with death, but this does not capture the essence of their discontent with their kingdoms. Their struggle is more about the loss of meaning in their lives rather than a philosophical statement about the nature of life and death.

Revision Summary:

The Magi feel discontent because their experience has changed their perception of their previous lives and beliefs.
The phrase "no longer at ease" indicates a profound sense of discomfort with their old ways after witnessing the birth of Christ.
The poem emphasizes spiritual disillusionment rather than physical suffering or satisfaction.
Understanding the emotional and spiritual implications of the Magi's journey is key to interpreting their feelings of dissatisfaction with their kingdoms.