Mrs. Wiggins

Discuss the effects of Hubert’s sexuality and secrecy regarding his relationships with men in the novel. Compare this with Maggie’s relationship with Randolph to explore different perspectives on The Dynamics of Intimacy, Abuse, and Secrets.

Examine the significance of motherhood in the novel, particularly in Maggie’s relationship with Clause. Analyze how other characters such as Jeannette, Ma Wiggins, Jessie, and Sister Compton, Daisy’s mother, provide other models of motherhood. How do these relate to Maggie’s experience?

Explore how the novel portrays intimate relationships, with a focus on the frequently depicted violence. Compare supportive relationships like Claude and Maybelle’s or Maggie and Hubert’s with relationships like Claude and Daisy and Orville and Jessie to examine the novel’s commentary on the connections between intimacy and abuse.

Discuss the impact of historical events such as World War I, the influenza epidemic, and the Great Depression on the novel. How do these events contribute to the overall narrative and thematic depth of the story?

Analyze the role of female friendships in the novel, particularly Maggie’s friendship with Jessie Tucker. How do the events of their friendship reflect or enhance the novel’s themes about relationships, intimacy, and secrets?

Examine Mrs. Dowler’s influence on Maggie’s character. Discuss her role as a foil, mentor, guide, and friend, and consider how she might also function as an antagonist. What are the implications of these roles for their relationship?

Discuss Monroe’s depiction of racial segregation and race relations in the American South during the decades in which the novel is set. What role does racism play in the novel in terms of its setting, conflict, characters, and other aspects? What broader commentary do you think Monroe is making about this time period?

Examine the use of irony in the novel on both verbal and dramatic levels. Why does Monroe so often employ this literary device? How does it help communicate the larger messages of the novel?