The Verger – All Questions with Answers
About the Story:
“The Verger” is a short story by Somerset Maugham that revolves around Albert Edward Foreman, a simple but dedicated verger of a church. Despite being illiterate, he builds a successful business, proving that education is not the only key to success.
Short Answer Questions:
Q1. Who is the main character of “The Verger”?
Ans: The main character of “The Verger” is Albert Edward Foreman, who serves as a verger at St. Peter’s Church for sixteen years.
Q2. Why was Albert Edward Foreman dismissed from his job?
Ans: Foreman was dismissed from his job as a verger because he was illiterate and could not read or write, which the new vicar found unacceptable.
Q3. How did Foreman react when he lost his job?
Ans: Foreman remained calm and composed when he was dismissed. He did not argue but quietly accepted the decision and left.
Q4. What business did Foreman start after losing his job?
Ans: After losing his job, Foreman started a small tobacco and newspaper shop, which eventually grew into a chain of successful stores.
Q5. How did Foreman become rich?
Ans: Through hard work and business sense, Foreman expanded his small shop into a profitable business. Over the years, he became wealthy by opening multiple stores.
Q6. What is the irony in the story?
Ans: The irony is that Foreman, who was dismissed for being illiterate, became a rich and successful businessman without needing to read or write.
Long Answer Questions:
Q1. How does the story “The Verger” highlight the theme of success despite lack of formal education?
Ans: The story emphasizes that formal education is not the only path to success. Foreman, despite being illiterate, shows intelligence, discipline, and strong business instincts. His dismissal from the church leads him to start a business, which turns out to be highly profitable. His success proves that practical knowledge, experience, and determination are just as valuable as formal education.
Q2. Describe the character of Albert Edward Foreman.
Ans: Foreman is a dedicated, disciplined, and hardworking man. He takes great pride in his job as a verger and serves for sixteen years with sincerity. Though he is illiterate, he is practical, observant, and business minded. Instead of despairing over losing his job, he takes control of his life and becomes a wealthy businessman. His calm nature, resilience, and intelligence make him an inspiring character.
Q3. How does the author use irony in “The Verger”?
Ans: The greatest irony in the story is that Foreman’s inability to read and write, which was considered a weakness, ultimately leads to his financial success. The church authorities dismiss him for his illiteracy, believing it to be a major flaw, yet he proves them wrong by becoming rich and successful without needing education. This highlights the unpredictable nature of success and challenges conventional beliefs about education.
Q4. What message does Somerset Maugham convey through “The Verger”?
Ans: The story conveys the message that intelligence and success are not solely determined by formal education. Practical skills, determination, and the ability to adapt can lead to great achievements. It also teaches that setbacks in life can sometimes open doors to new and better opportunities.
Conclusion:
“The Verger” is an inspiring story about how determination and practical intelligence can lead to success, even without formal education. This post provides all important questions and answers to help students understand the themes, characters, and messages of the story.
