55 pages 1-hour read

Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2004

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Essay Topics

1.

Analyze Gregor’s character development as he faces physical and emotional conflicts, including enemies like serpents, yet spares Bane. What experiences and lessons does he internalize, and how does he grow from them? How could this be considered a “coming of age” novel for him? Provide textual evidence.

2.

How does the novel use foreshadowing and plot twists? Identify key moments where early details hint at later reveals. Did you catch the foreshadowing clues about the prophecy? Is the novel’s use of these writing techniques effective? Why or why not?

3.

Write a rhyming prophecy that describes an imagined event in your future. Refer to Page 39 of the novel for inspiration. Analyze your rhyme scheme and craft elements like imagery, mood, and themes. Do you believe in this prophecy? Why or why not? In what ways might your prophecy poem be interpreted?

4.

If you’ve read the first book, Gregor the Overlander, discuss the role of family, character goals, and plot momentum. Compare how Gregor’s role as Boots’s protector differs in the two novels. Does his attitude toward responsibility, risk-taking, or sacrifice evolve? Provide textual evidence.

5.

Twitchtip says, “‘Being a rager—it’s not a moral judgment. You can’t help being one any more than I can help being a scent seer’” (162-63). What do you think this quote means? Why? How can you relate her words to your life?

6.

Identify and analyze a symbol or theme that this guide does not include. If it’s a symbol, what does it represent and why? If it’s a theme, how does the novel present it, and what is the message? Use evidence from the book to illustrate.

7.

Gregor is a hero who’s forced into dangerous situations. How does he fit (or challenge) traditional fantasy hero tropes and archetypes? What aspects of his personality make him stand out from other protagonists? Use examples from the book to support your ideas.

8.

Bane is feared as a great threat, yet he’s just a baby. What does his portrayal suggest about how societies create enemies? How does Bane’s role challenge the dualistic view of good versus evil? Analyze this idea in terms of real-life issues, such as historical or current conflicts.

9.

Compare and contrast two characters from the book. Examine at least three specific scenes that contribute to defining each character’s personality, motivations, similarities, and differences.

10.

Write a chapter, starting after the novel’s conclusion, that describes what happens next to Gregor and his friends. Consider the following: Did Luxa and the others survive? How does living with Ripred affect Bane? Does Gregor return to the Underland? What do is “The Prophecy of Blood” about? Along with your chapter, provide an analysis of your writing, explaining your choices and how they connect to the original text.

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