Slade House

Discuss the novel’s commentary on world politics and economics. How might the Grayer twins function as allegories for certain types of historical or social figures? What does Marinus represent in this commentary?

How does Mitchell weave elements of various genres, like mystery, fantasy, thriller, and horror, into this literary novel? Discuss how he balances these elements and how they contribute to the thematic meaning of the novel.

The novel uses different historical periods to root each of the protagonists in a different time and place. Draw comparisons among the protagonists that link them despite their historical moments. What is Mitchell trying to say about the fundamental characteristics that mark the modern human experience?

Discuss the symbolic function of the fox-head hairpin that recurs throughout most of the chapters. How does its meaning transform from the time it first appears to its deployment in Chapter 4?

Analyze Mitchell’s depiction of the power dynamics inherent to host-guest relations, as demonstrated by the Grayers and the way they indulge their guests’ inherent desires. How does this depiction reflect Mitchell’s critique of wealth, benevolence, and generosity?

When Jonah tells his story to Freya, it echoes Cantillon and Lady Albertina Chetwynd-Pitt’s efforts to commit their experiences to posterity. Why is it so important for these characters to be remembered? How does this relate to the novel’s larger ideas about mortality and time?

During their final confrontation, Norah accuses Marinus of a double standard, judging Norah for her attempts to achieve immortality while undervaluing her own. How does Marinus navigate her privilege differently from Norah in a world that suffers burdens that she never has to experience?

Evaluate Mitchell’s treatment of Gordon’s character. How does he balance the negative and positive aspects of the character, even after he has died?