Introduction to Literature 131

J. Roth

 

The Destructors and Roman Fever Discussion Questions

 

 

The Destructors, pp. 49-60

 

  1. Discuss the setting of the story.  Does it hold any explanation for the gang and particularly Trevor’s motives?

 

 

 

  1. Discuss the gang dynamics.  What are their values?  What do they expect from their members?

 

 

 

  1. Why does the gang allow Trevor to become leader?

 

 

 

  1. Explain the significance of the narrator’s statement Destruction after all is a form of creation.

 

 

 

Roman Fever, pp. 62-72

 

 

  1. Contrast Mrs. Slade and Mrs. Ansley.   What are each woman’s essential qualities?  Who dominates in the first part of the story?  Who at the end?

 

 

 

  1. Discuss how Wharton uses special relationships (standing, sitting, a view above the city) to reinforce the action of the story.

 

 

 

  1. What really is Roman Fever?   How does one catch it?  Why is the setting necessary?

 

 

 

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