Stella Maris

How does the bond between Alicia and her father shape the narrative and contribute to the novel’s themes? How does she reconcile herself with the destructive legacy of her father’s work?

Explore the symbolism of the title Stella Maris in McCarthy’s novel. How does the name relate to the overarching themes and motifs within the story?

Evaluate the portrayal of morality and ethics in Stella Maris. How does Alicia navigate moral dilemmas, and what commentary does the novel offer on ethical considerations?

Analyze the role of violence in the novel. How does McCarthy depict and explore acts of violence, and what broader commentary does this offer on human nature and society?

Explore the role of mathematics as a prominent theme in the novel. Why does Alicia position herself against Platonism as a mathematical philosophy, and how does this position relate to broader questions on the nature of being?

Music is one of Alicia’s few reliable sources of solace. How do her views on music shed light on her understanding of other, less satisfying systems of knowledge?

Examine the significance of the historical context of the novel, particularly the Manhattan Project and the role played by Alicia’s father.

Analyze the theme of suicide in the novel. How does the narrative handle the concept of self-destruction, and what insights does it provide into Alicia’s perception of the world?