Jamaica Inn

Examine the role gender plays in Jamaica Inn. How does Mary view and subvert the gender norms of her time?

Examine Jem Merlyn as a character. How does du Maurier construct his character as both a romantic hero and a suspect in the crime plot?

Jamaica Inn is set in the picturesque yet threatening environment of the moors in Cornwall. What is the significance of the moors in the novel? How do they influence the events that Mary experiences and the people that grow up in their vicinity?

Francis Davey, the Vicar of Altarnun, is one of the more complex characters in Jamaica Inn. He develops in the reader’s mind from a sympathetic figure representing safety in the wild moorlands to a devious murderer. What is the significance of his “pagan” interests to his characterization?

Examine Mary’s attitude toward romance in Jamaica Inn. How do they develop and help to structure the novel?

As she struggles with uncovering her uncle’s crimes, Mary frequently wishes that the whole Merlyn line were gone from the earth. Examine the theme of bad blood in Jamaica Inn in relation to one character.

Joss Merlyn is a compelling villain. Despite his many flaws, he exhibits some redeemable features and often evokes pathos. How does du Maurier present examples of humanity in Joss throughout the novel?

Compare and contrast Aunt Patience and Mary Yellan. To what effect does du Maurier present them side-by-side throughout Jamaica Inn?