Rogue Lawyer

John Grisham

71 pages 2-hour read

John Grisham

Rogue Lawyer

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015

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Essay Topics

1.

Sebastian Rudd’s narration is often cynical. Does the tone of the novel ever waiver from this negative outlook? If so, when and how?

2.

In Rogue Lawyer, it is difficult to pinpoint one antagonist. What might Grisham be suggesting about our notions of heroism and villainy?

3.

Rudd often plays pool, especially when he cannot sleep. What does this activity symbolize?

4.

Many paradoxes exist within the narrative, such as the contradiction of law enforcement sometimes acting in criminal ways. What other paradoxes exist in the novel and for what reason?

5.

Does the text ultimately endorse or caution against Rudd’s “ends justify the means” approach, considering both his successes and the catastrophic consequences of his actions?

6.

Rudd explains that cage fighting represents brutal honesty in contrast to the legal system’s duplicity. However, despite rules guiding MMA and law enforcement, both exhibit moments of uncontrolled violence. Are there any other parallels between the two and what do these connections suggest?

7.

Examine the role of jurors in the narrative, specifically Glynna Roston, Willie Grant, and Esteban Suarez. What do their actions suggest about the role of citizens in the justice system?

8.

Rudd speaks about how a lawyer is much like an actor. Consider this notion along with the varied roles he plays in his life: defense attorney, financial backer for cage fighting, father. What perspectives does the narrative offer about identity?

9.

How does the episodic structure of Rogue Lawyer reinforce the novel’s themes?

10.

Compare Sebastian Rudd to lawyer protagonists in Grisham’s other works like The Firm (1991) and The Pelican Brief (2006). In what ways does Rudd deviate from these other leading characters?

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