The Reptile Room

How does the novel’s symbolism help illustrate the theme of The Difference Between Perception and Reality?

Appearances can be deceiving. How does this concept play into the theme of The Difference Between Perception and Reality in the novel? Consider how the Baudelaire children determine, on their first meeting, that Uncle Monty is not as fearsome as his house and subject of study suggest.

Analyze Lemony Snicket’s claim that it’s sometimes “good” and “necessary” to lie. Why is it acceptable for Sunny Baudelaire to “lie” with the Incredibly Deadly Viper when the siblings’ ultimate goal is to expose the truth? How does this claim reflect on Snicket’s other claim that this is not “a book written to entertain small children” (175)?

Explain the ways in which the Baudelaires are disadvantaged due to their status as children. How do they overcome these challenges, and does being children offer any advantages?

How do Mr. Poe’s actions and words demonstrate The Vulnerability of Children? Mr. Poe appears to truly care for the Baudelaires. However, how does he allow his perceptions of children to undermine his efforts to protect them?

How does the symbol of Count Olaf’s eyeball tattoo help develop the theme of The Difference Between Perception and Reality?

How does Lemony Snicket’s use of a gothic setting and gothic imagery develop the novel’s mood or tone? In turn, how does Snicket’s voice as a narrator further add to or undermine that mood or tone?

Analyze Lemony Snicket’s use of foreshadowing in the novel. Choose three moments where you can tell what’s going to happen beforehand and explain how you know.