- Review: 'The Bell Jar'
- Quotes
- Questions for Study & Discussion
- Sylvia Plath - Biography
The Bell Jar is one of the greatest works by Sylvia. Here are a few questions for study and discussion.
- What is important about the title?
- What are the conflicts in The Bell Jar? What types of conflict (physical, moral, intellectual, or emotional) did you notice in this novel?
- How does Sylvia Plath reveal character in The Bell Jar?
- What are some themes in the novel? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
- What are some symbols in The Bell Jar? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
- Is Esther consistent in her actions? Is she a fully developed character? How? Why?
- Do you find the characters likable? Are the characters persons you would want to meet?
- Does the story end the way you expected? How? Why?
- What is the central/primary purpose of the story? Is the purpose important or meaningful?
- Why is the novel usually considered a work of suicidal fiction?
- How essential is the setting to the story? Could the story have taken place anywhere else?
- What is the role of women in the text? How are mothers represented? What about single/independent women?
- Why do the think the novel has been so controversial? Do you think the book should be banned? Why? Or, why not?
- Would you recommend this novel to a friend?
- Do you plan to re-read this novel? Do you want to read other works by Sylvia Plath?
