The Verger Question and Answer

The Verger by W. Somerset Maugham is a fascinating short story about life, challenges, and self-discovery. This educational guide provides a variety of questions and answers to help readers delve into the story’s themes, characters, and plot.

Comprehension Questions and Answers

Question: What is the central theme of “The Verger”?

Answer: The central theme of “The Verger” is self-discovery, determination, and the idea that personal limitations do not define one’s success.

Question: Who is the protagonist in the story?

Answer: The protagonist of the story is Albert Edward Foreman, the verger of St. Peter’s Church.

Question: What does the verger’s job symbolize in the story?

Answer: The verger’s job symbolizes tradition, responsibility, and pride in fulfilling one’s duties.

Question: Why was the verger dismissed from his position?

Answer: The verger was dismissed because he was illiterate and the new vicar believed that a verger should be able to read and write.

Question: What was Albert Edward Foreman’s reaction to being dismissed?

Answer: Albert Edward Foreman accepted his dismissal calmly, without protest, as he respected the church’s decision.

Question: How did Foreman start his tobacco business?

Answer: Foreman started his tobacco business after observing that there was no tobacco shop in his neighborhood, and he decided to use his savings to open one.

Question: What led to the success of Foreman’s tobacco business?

Answer: Foreman’s tobacco business succeeded because of his keen observation, hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Question: How did Foreman’s life change after losing his job as a verger?

Answer: After losing his job, Foreman became a successful businessman and eventually amassed significant wealth.

Question: What irony is highlighted in the story?

Answer: The irony is that Foreman, who was dismissed for being illiterate, became a wealthy businessman despite his inability to read or write.

Question: What does the story reveal about societal perceptions of education?

Answer: The story reveals that societal perceptions of education often overlook individual talents and practical intelligence.

Question: How does the story reflect the power of resilience?

Answer: The story reflects resilience by showing how Foreman turned a challenging situation into an opportunity for success.

Question: What role does the new vicar play in the story?

Answer: The new vicar acts as a catalyst for change in Foreman’s life by dismissing him and indirectly pushing him toward entrepreneurship.

Question: How is humor used in the story?

Answer: Humor is used in the story through situational irony and the unexpected outcomes of Foreman’s actions.

Question: What message does the story convey about opportunity?

Answer: The story conveys that opportunities often arise in unexpected ways, and success depends on recognizing and acting on them.

Question: How does Foreman’s character evolve in the story?

Answer: Foreman evolves from being a simple verger to a confident and successful entrepreneur.

Question: Why does the story resonate with readers?

Answer: The story resonates because it highlights universal themes like perseverance, adaptability, and success despite obstacles.

Question: What is the significance of the title “The Verger”?

Answer: The title emphasizes Foreman’s initial role and sets the stage for his transformative journey.

Question: How does the setting contribute to the story?

Answer: The church setting symbolizes tradition, and its contrast with the world of business highlights Foreman’s adaptability.

Question: What is the moral of the story?

Answer: The moral is that success comes from hard work, practical thinking, and the courage to embrace change.

Character-Based Questions and Answers

Question: What are the key traits of Albert Edward Foreman’s character?

Answer: Foreman is dedicated, observant, resilient, and resourceful.

Question: How does Foreman’s personality contribute to his success?

Answer: Foreman’s resourcefulness and ability to adapt to change contribute to his success.

Question: Describe the new vicar’s personality.

Answer: The new vicar is progressive, strict, and believes in modern standards of education.

Question: How does Foreman’s humility impact his relationships?

Answer: Foreman’s humility earns him respect and helps him maintain positive relationships even after losing his job.

Question: How does Foreman’s character contrast with the vicar’s?

Answer: Foreman represents traditional values and practicality, while the vicar represents modernity and formal education.

Question: What motivates the vicar to dismiss Foreman?

Answer: The vicar is motivated by his belief that a verger should be literate to fulfill their duties properly.

Question: How does Foreman handle adversity in the story?

Answer: Foreman handles adversity with calmness and determination, finding new opportunities instead of giving up.

Question: What lessons can be learned from Foreman’s character?

Answer: Foreman teaches the importance of resilience, adaptability, and using one’s strengths to overcome challenges.

Question: What role does tradition play in Foreman’s life?

Answer: Tradition is central to Foreman’s identity and work, shaping his values and sense of duty.

Question: How does Foreman view his dismissal from the church?

Answer: Foreman views his dismissal as a turning point and uses it to start a new and prosperous chapter in his life.

Critical Thinking Questions and Answers

Question: How does the story challenge conventional ideas about success?

Answer: The story challenges the idea that formal education is necessary for success, highlighting the value of practical skills.

Question: What role does observation play in Foreman’s success?

Answer: Observation is crucial, as it allows Foreman to identify business opportunities and act on them.

Question: Is Foreman’s success solely due to his hard work?

Answer: Foreman’s success is due to a combination of hard work, observation, and his ability to adapt to change.

Question: How would the story change if Foreman was literate?

Answer: If Foreman were literate, the story might lose its central irony and the emphasis on practical intelligence.

Question: How does the story portray the relationship between tradition and modernity?

Answer: The story portrays a tension between tradition and modernity, with Foreman embodying the values of tradition and adaptability.

Question: What role does luck play in Foreman’s life?

Answer: Luck plays a role in Foreman’s life, but his success primarily stems from his proactive nature and keen observation.

Question: How does the ending reflect Foreman’s journey?

Answer: The ending reflects Foreman’s transformation from a humble verger to a successful businessman, emphasizing the story’s themes of growth and opportunity.

Question: What does the story suggest about the importance of self-belief?

Answer: The story suggests that self-belief is crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving success.

Question: How does Foreman’s dismissal serve as a turning point in his life?

Answer: His dismissal serves as a catalyst for change, pushing him to discover his entrepreneurial potential.

Question: What makes the story relatable to readers?

Answer: The story is relatable because it addresses universal themes like overcoming adversity and finding success through determination.

The Verger is an inspiring tale of resilience, opportunity, and self-discovery. Through engaging questions and answers, this guide helps readers explore the story’s rich themes, characters, and moral lessons. It showcases how determination and practical intelligence can lead to success, even in the face of challenges.