'One Hundred Years of Solitude' Questions for Study and Discussion

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One Hundred Years of Solitude is a famous (and controversial) novel by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Here are a few questions for study and discussion.

What is important about the title? Is there a reference in the novel that explains the title?
How does solitude play a role in the novel?
What are the conflicts in One Hundred Years of Solitude? What types of conflict (physical, moral, intellectual, or emotional)?
How does Gabriel Garcia Marquez reveal character in One Hundred Years of Solitude?
What are some themes in the story? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
What are some symbols in One Hundred Years of Solitude? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
How effective do you find the main characters? Are they fully developed characters?
Do you find the characters likable? Are the characters persons you would want to meet?
Discuss some of the symbols in One Hundred Years of Solitude.
What is the central/primary purpose of the story? Is the purpose important or meaningful?
Why is the novel so controversial? Do you think the book should be censored or banned?
How essential is the setting to the novel? Could the story have taken place anywhere else?
What is the role of family and community in this novel?
Does the novel end the way you expected? How? Why?
What is the effect of the magical realism in the novel?
Would you recommend this novel to a friend?

Esther Lombardi
Classic Literature Guide