59 pages • 1 hour read
Jeff ZentnerThe Serpent King
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
How do the scenes in which Dill remembers his childhood inform his character? Analyze three examples.
Analyze the character of Dill Sr. through the conversations he has with his son. Supply quotes and discuss their significance.
“When I thought I’d become you, I hated you so much. I was less afraid to die than to become you. But now that I know I’ll never be you, I can finally feel sorry for you.” Analyze Dill’s final words to his father. Why was he afraid of becoming his father, and why does he now pity him?
How does the setting of the novel influence the three main characters? Provide examples for each of the characters.
Is Lydia judgmental or supportive? Make an argument for both perspectives.
Why does Travis die? Why do you think the author made this decision?
What role does Dr. Blankenship play in Dill’s life? Analyze his influence on Dill’s character using examples from their scenes.
“This might be it, Dill thought. This might be the best your life ever is. This moment. Right now.” Analyze the scene at The Column in Chapter 13, and what it means for Dill.
Compare and contrast the parents of the protagonists, using individual scenes as examples.
“I’ve made books my life because they let me escape this world of cruelty and savagery.” What is the bookshop owner, Mr. Burson, talking about this quote? How can the experience of reading provide a welcome distraction from the realities of life? Does reading play this role in your life? Why or why not?
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By Jeff Zentner
