Hang the Moon

Explore the theme of family dynamics and conflicts within the Kincaid family. How do the characters’ relationships with each other reveal the impact of past traumas and misunderstandings?

How does the Prohibition Era contribute to the themes of rebellion and societal change in the novel? How do the characters’ interactions with speakeasies and secret gatherings mirror their desires for freedom and autonomy?

Discuss the symbolism of the Big House and how it evolves over the course of the novel. What does it mean that the house burns down?

Analyze the influence of societal expectations on Sallie’s journey of self-discovery. How does she navigate the pressures to conform to gender roles and aristocratic norms?

How does the character of Kat serve as a foil to Sallie’s experiences within the Kincaid family? What insights does Kat’s presence provide into the complexities of relationships and self-identity?

At the end of the novel, the Kincaid family is primarily comprised of women and children. What does this transformation signify thematically? Use evidence from the text in your response.

Discuss the significance of Sallie’s decision to marry Tom after the destruction of the Big House. How does this choice reflect her personal growth and the lessons she’s learned throughout the novel?

Analyze the depictions of the different socioeconomic classes and racial groups in Caywood. How does people’s experiences differ based on which groups they belong to? Use three characters from different backgrounds as examples.