The Elegance of the Hedgehog

Why does Renée assume that her employers don’t want to know about her intellectualism? Why does Renée want to protect her intellectualism? Analyze the significance of Renée’s secret passion for philosophy, art, and literature.

Write an analysis on Paloma’s character development in the context of her relationship with her family. For the majority of the novel, how does she view her family? By the end of the novel, what has she discovered about her family? How does her relationship with her family inform her characterization and character development?

Write an analysis on Paloma’s character development in the context of her suicidal ideation. Why does Paloma consider suicide? How does she attempt to avoid it? Ultimately, why does Paloma decide to keep living? Explore at least three of Paloma’s philosophical beliefs in your answer.

Choose at least three allusions to literature, philosophy, film, or music in the novel. What is the significance of these allusions? Why does Barbery include them in her novel?

What is the symbolic significance of tea and tea ceremonies? Include an analysis of tea’s symbolism to both Renée and Paloma.

What is the symbolic significance of domesticated animals in the novel? How does Barbery use animals to explore philosophy about human behavior?

What is Kakuro Ozu’s role as a secondary character? How does he function in the plot and development of theme?

What life lesson(s) does Paloma learn through her experiences with Renée? Analyze how Renée positively changed her sense of self and future.