Question

Mrs. Pumphrey was a

• A. poor lady
• B. selfish lady
• C. rich lady
• D. gentle lady

Hint:

While analyzing literary characters, focus on their lifestyle, dialogue, and actions to determine defining traits.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Contextual understanding.
Mrs. Pumphrey is a character from the story "A Triumph of Surgery" by James Herriot. She is portrayed as a wealthy woman who dotes on her pet dog, Tricki.
Step 2: Supporting details.
She is shown to be extremely affectionate and overindulgent, often feeding Tricki rich foods and giving him luxuries beyond need. The way she pampers the dog with clothes, beds, and food clearly indicates her affluence.
Step 3: Elimination of other options.
(A) Poor lady: Incorrect — she is financially well-off.
(B) Selfish lady: Incorrect — although overindulgent, she is not selfish.
(D) Gentle lady: Partially true, but not the defining trait asked.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Mrs. Pumphrey was primarily portrayed as a rich lady, making option (C) the most accurate.