“A Triumph of Surgery” is the first chapter in the Class 10 English supplementary book Footprints Without Feet. Written by James Herriot, a real-life veterinary surgeon, the story is a humorous yet insightful account of how excessive love and pampering can harm rather than help. This article provides a complete summary of A Triumph of Surgery, tailored for CBSE students preparing for board exams.
A Triumph of Surgery Summary – Class 10 English CBSE
The story revolves around Tricki, a small dog owned by Mrs. Pumphrey, a wealthy and overly affectionate woman. Tricki is pampered with rich food—cream cakes, chocolates, and Horlicks—and lacks exercise. As a result, he becomes obese, lethargic, and seriously ill.
Veterinary surgeon Mr. James Herriot, the narrator, is alarmed by Tricki’s condition. He advises Mrs. Pumphrey to reduce Tricki’s food intake and increase his physical activity. However, she fails to follow the advice due to her emotional attachment.
Eventually, Tricki’s health deteriorates, and Mr. Herriot decides to hospitalize him. Mrs. Pumphrey is devastated but agrees. At the clinic, Tricki is put on a strict diet and allowed to socialize with other dogs. Surprisingly, he recovers quickly—without any surgery or medication—just through proper care, exercise, and a balanced routine.
Mrs. Pumphrey, unaware of the actual treatment, believes Tricki’s recovery is due to a miraculous surgery and calls it “a triumph of surgery.” The story ends with Tricki returning home, healthy and active, while Mr. Herriot reflects humorously on the luxurious food items Mrs. Pumphrey sent for Tricki (which he and his staff enjoyed instead).
Read More Madam Rides the Bus Summary
Key Themes in A Triumph of Surgery
- Overindulgence vs. Responsible Care: Excessive pampering can lead to harm, even when intentions are good.
- Discipline and Routine: A balanced lifestyle is essential for health—whether for pets or humans.
- Humor and Irony: The title is ironic; no surgery was performed, yet the recovery was dramatic.
- Emotional Attachment: Mrs. Pumphrey’s blind love for Tricki reflects how emotions can cloud judgment.
Moral Lessons from A Triumph of Surgery
- True care involves making tough decisions, not just giving in to emotional impulses.
- Health requires moderation, discipline, and awareness—not luxury or excess.
- Professionals must sometimes act tactfully to protect those in their care.
Character Sketches
Mrs. Pumphrey
- Wealthy, emotional, and overly indulgent
- Loves Tricki deeply but lacks practical understanding of pet care
- Represents misguided affection
Tricki
- Greedy and inactive due to overfeeding
- Responds well to proper care and exercise
- Symbolizes how lifestyle affects health
Mr. Herriot
- Wise, compassionate, and tactful
- Uses practical methods to treat Tricki
- Narrates the story with subtle humor
Read More The Sermon at Benares Summary
FAQs – A Triumph of Surgery Summary
Q1. Why is the story titled “A Triumph of Surgery”?
It’s ironic—no surgery was performed. Tricki’s recovery was due to proper care, not medical intervention.
Q2. What caused Tricki’s illness?
Overfeeding, lack of exercise, and emotional indulgence by Mrs. Pumphrey.
Q3. How did Mr. Herriot treat Tricki?
With a strict diet, water, physical activity, and social interaction—no medicines or surgery.
Q4. What is the central message of the story?
Excessive love can be harmful; balance and discipline are key to well-being.
Read More Mijbil The Otter Summary
Why This Summary Is Perfect for Class 10 CBSE Students
- Covers plot, characters, themes, and moral in one place
- Uses exam-relevant keywords like “Class 10 English summary,” “CBSE,” “Footprints Without Feet”
- Structured for quick revision and better retention
- Helps students answer short and long questions in board exams confidently
Ace your Class 10 English exams with this complete A Triumph of Surgery summary. For more chapter-wise summaries and exam tips, stay tuned to our educational blog!
