Problem
Questions for The Maltese Falcon.
A. The Maltese Falcon centers on detective Sam Spade, a character almost as elusive as the falcon itself. What aspects of his personality remain mysterious? What motivates him to find the falcon?
B. Is Sam Spade a hero? How would you describe his personal moral code in a violent world?
C. What do the film's three women-Brigid O'Shaughnessy, Effie Perine, and Iva Archer-have in common? How different are their personalities and motivations?
D. Are Sam Spade's actions in the final scene consistent with his character? What would you have done in his place?
E. Although the audience is never privy to the thoughts of Hammett's characters, what might the falcon symbolize to Brigid, The Fat Man, and Joel Cairo?