The Return of Martin Guerre

In the Epilogue, Davis mentions that there may have been an “armistice” between Martin Guerre and his wife, Bertrande, once they reunited. What do you think might have been the terms of their armistice? What difficulties might they have faced as they reconciled?

Which of the following genres best suit this work of literature: non-fiction, creative history, or legend? Explain your choice and support it with evidence from the book.

Analyze the intentions of Pierre Guerre. What positive and negative qualities does he bring to the story? 

Examine the role of patriarchy in the story of Martin Guerre through the experiences of Martin and Bertrande. Who was best able to make the most of their limited freedom? 

Davis describes the marriage between Jean de Coras and his second wife in some detail; how does this portrait of Coras as a husband influence your understanding of his sympathy for Arnaud du Tilh?

The judges of the Criminal Chamber showed some leniency when they sentenced Arnaud du Tilh, even though they sentenced him to death; do you think du Tilh was deserving of such sympathy? Why or why not?

Describe a day in the life of a sixteenth-century French peasant living in the Languedoc region: with whom might you come into contact on any given day? What sort of work and leisure activity might have engaged you?

Whose behaviors and decisions appear more villainous: those of Martin Guerre, or those of Arnaud du Tilh?