Short Story Analysis

Questions and Answers

What action did the beggar take when he saw the rider approaching?

He waved for help from the rider.

He motioned for the rider to stop. (correct)

He pretended to be asleep.

He ran away from the rider.

Why did the beggar refuse to dismount from the horse?

He wanted to continue riding around the city.

He was afraid of falling.

He claimed that the horse was his. (correct)

He wanted to keep the horse for himself.

What reasoning did the beggar provide to justify his claim to the horse?

He was riding the horse before he lent it. (correct)

He had purchased the horse with his savings.

He claimed the horse belonged to his family.

He was given the horse by the Caliph.

How did the rider feel about the situation at the city gate?

Confused and betrayed. Signup and view all the answers

What did the beggar appeal to when he spoke to the Caliph?

His role as a wise and just leader. Signup and view all the answers

What hint did the beggar give about his financial situation?

He was poor because of his spending on the horse. Signup and view all the answers

What claim did the rider make regarding the ownership of the horse?

He insisted that he was given the horse by the beggar. Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial request made by the rider to the beggar?

To give him a ride on the horse. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Encounter Between the Rich Man and the Beggar

A beggar, visibly limping, requests a ride to the city gate from a wealthy rider after hearing his horse.
The rider, feeling sympathy, allows the beggar to ride behind him.
Upon arrival at the city gate, the beggar refuses to dismount, claiming the horse is his.

The Rich Man's Perspective

The rider expresses confusion as the beggar insists the horse belongs to him.
The beggar accuses the wealthy man of theft, claiming he took advantage of his situation.

The Beggar's Defense

The beggar addresses the Caliph, asserting his status as a protector of the poor and justice.
He explains that his current poverty is due to the horse he bought, emphasizing the sacrifices he made for it.
The beggar recounts lending his horse to the wealthier man out of compassion, despite initial hesitations.

Beggar’s Claim and Society's Perception

He highlights the absurdity of societal beliefs that a beggar cannot own such a fine horse, fostering disbelief in the court.
The beggar warns that the wealthy man threatened him, asserting his ownership and intimidation tactics if he cries for help.

Themes of Justice and Class Disparity

The narrative explores themes of wealth, ownership, and societal perceptions of poverty.
It challenges the audience's views on appearances and inherent biases against those in lower social standings.

Description

This quiz explores a short story about a beggar who asks for a ride. It delves into the themes of compassion and confusion at the city gate. Participants will analyze the character dynamics and moral implications of the interaction.