1. Why is the novel titled as it is? Why is the preface by Jane Locke included? What effect do these have?
Actions for 1. Why is the novel titled as it is? Why is the preface by Jane Locke included? What effect do these have?
2. What effect does the epistolary structure of the novel have on the reader? How is letter-writing different from straight dialogue, and how might if affect the telling of the story?
Actions for 2. What effect does the epistolary structure of the novel have on the reader? How is letter-writing different from straight dialogue, and how might if affect the telling of the story?
3. How would you characterize Eliza? What are her desires for her life? Her views of marriage? Do these fit the context of 18th century life as you understand it for a woman of her position?
Actions for 3. How would you characterize Eliza? What are her desires for her life? Her views of marriage? Do these fit the context of 18th century life as you understand it for a woman of her position?
4. In letter IX, Eliza writes to Lucy that she is "sensible, that even the false maxims of the world must be complied with in a degree." What do you think are these "false maxims?" Are they "false?"
Actions for 4. In letter IX, Eliza writes to Lucy that she is "sensible, that even the false maxims of the world must be complied with in a degree." What do you think are these "false maxims?" Are they "false?"
5. How would you compare Eliza to Lucy? What do they represent as female "types," perhaps, to Foster as author?
Actions for 5. How would you compare Eliza to Lucy? What do they represent as female "types," perhaps, to Foster as author?
6. Does Eliza really think for herself, or is she "taken in" by appearances, social status, etc.? Provide examples to support either position.
Actions for 6. Does Eliza really think for herself, or is she "taken in" by appearances, social status, etc.? Provide examples to support either position.
7. How would you characterize Sanford? Give examples that illustrate your characterizations.
Actions for 7. How would you characterize Sanford? Give examples that illustrate your characterizations.
8. In Letter XIII, Lucy writes this about Boyer: "His situation in life is, perhaps, as elevated as you have a right to claim." Is she correct? Why would Lucy write this? What does it say of her society?
Actions for 8. In Letter XIII, Lucy writes this about Boyer: "His situation in life is, perhaps, as elevated as you have a right to claim." Is she correct? Why would Lucy write this? What does it say of her society?