50 One-Sentence Q&A from The Ox by H.E. Bates: If you’re preparing for WB SLST English 2025 (IX-X), mastering the short story “The Ox” by H.E. Bates is a must. This powerful and symbolic narrative plays a vital role in the WB SLST English literature syllabus, and understanding its depth is essential for securing high marks. In this blog, we provide a complete study guide on “The Ox”, including story analysis, summary, themes, symbolism, and detailed character sketches. You’ll also get access to 50 one-sentence questions and answers, MCQs, and other exam-oriented Q&A based on the story — perfect for quick revision and last-minute prep. Whether you’re looking for WB SLST English short story questions, The Ox important questions, or simply a breakdown of the plot, this post offers a comprehensive resource. Gear up for success with expert-crafted WB SLST English study material and boost your confidence in handling English literature for WB SLST 2025.
Table of Contents
Dive into The Ox with our detailed notes and sharpen your understanding for effective WB SLST English revision!
WB SLST English 2025 l 50 One-Sentence Q&A from The Ox by H.E. Bates l
“The Ox” by H.E. Bates – Questions and Answers
- Who is the author of “The Ox”?
Answer: H.E. Bates. - What does the ox symbolize in the story?
Answer: Uncomplaining endurance and sacrifice. - What is the name of the central female character?
Answer: Mrs. Thurlow. - How is Mrs. Thurlow described in terms of appearance?
Answer: Strong, masculine, and ox-like. - What job does Mrs. Thurlow do?
Answer: She delivers milk. - What time of day does Mrs. Thurlow begin her work?
Answer: Very early in the morning. - What is the condition of Mrs. Thurlow’s husband?
Answer: He is bedridden and mentally unstable. - Why is Mrs. Thurlow likened to an ox?
Answer: Because of her physical labor and silent endurance. - What does Mrs. Thurlow use to deliver milk?
Answer: A handcart. - What season is depicted in the story?
Answer: Winter. - What literary device is central to the story’s symbolism?
Answer: Allegory. - What theme is dominant in “The Ox”?
Answer: Silent suffering and resilience. - How does society treat Mrs. Thurlow?
Answer: With indifference. - What is the narrator’s relationship to Mrs. Thurlow?
Answer: He is a silent observer and commentator. - What contrast is evident in the story?
Answer: Between physical strength and emotional suppression. - How does Mrs. Thurlow treat her husband?
Answer: With loyalty and care. - What is the tone of the story?
Answer: Sympathetic and melancholic. - What does the cold weather symbolize?
Answer: Emotional detachment and hardship. - Is the story written in first or third person?
Answer: First person. - What does Mrs. Thurlow’s routine suggest about her character?
Answer: She is unwavering and dutiful.
What is ironic about Mrs. Thurlow’s life?
Answer: Despite being the provider, she receives no support.
What image is frequently associated with Mrs. Thurlow?
Answer: That of a beast of burden.
What does the narrator admire in Mrs. Thurlow?
Answer: Her tenacity and endurance.
What is revealed about Mrs. Thurlow’s past?
Answer: Very little—she remains a mystery.
What message does the story convey about gender roles?
Answer: It questions traditional feminine roles.
What is the effect of the setting on the mood?
Answer: It creates a somber and harsh atmosphere.
27. What emotion is largely absent in Mrs. Thurlow?
→ Self-pity.
28. Why is the story titled “The Ox”?
→ It metaphorically captures Mrs. Thurlow’s role as a beast of burden—steadfast and enduring.
29. What quality defines Mrs. Thurlow most?
→ Stoic endurance.
30. What kind of love does Mrs. Thurlow exhibit?
→ Self-sacrificial.
31. How does the story highlight social injustice?
→ By showing neglect of the working poor.
32. What is the role of silence in the story?
→ It underscores suffering and resilience.
33. How does Mrs. Thurlow’s daily task reflect her character?
→ It reveals her discipline, sense of duty, and acceptance of hardship.
34. What does the lack of dialogue signify?
→ Emotional repression and loneliness.
35. What kind of life does Mrs. Thurlow live?
→ One of toil and isolation.
36. How is the narrator affected by Mrs. Thurlow?
→ He is deeply moved by her quiet suffering.
37. What literary tradition does this story belong to?
→ Modernist realism.
38. What do Mrs. Thurlow’s actions speak louder than?
→ Words.
39. What human condition does the story reflect?
→ Endurance in the face of adversity.
40. How is pathos used in the story?
→ Through Mrs. Thurlow’s life of unnoticed suffering.
41. What might the milk symbolize?
→ Sustenance and nurture.
42. What is the emotional impact of the story?
→ Quiet tragedy and admiration.
43. What does the story critique implicitly?
→ Social apathy and gender roles.
44. How does the story portray heroism?
→ As silent, unrecognized effort.
45. What perspective does the narrator offer?
→ Observational and reflective.
46. What does the ending of the story emphasize?
→ Continuity of hardship.
47. What kind of imagery dominates the story?
→ Cold, grey, and oppressive.
48. What quality is Mrs. Thurlow devoid of?
→ Complaint or self-indulgence.
49. What does the reader gain from the narrator’s viewpoint?
→ A deeper empathy for the unnoticed lives.
50. What broader theme does Mrs. Thurlow’s life reflect?
→ The nobility of uncelebrated sacrifice.
