The Tower of Nero

Why does Apollo feel sad about the murder of the amphisbaena or the two-headed snake? What does Apollo’s reaction tell the reader about his transformation?

Luguselwa (or Lu) is an important new character in the novel. Although Apollo is initially mistrustful of her, he gradually changes his mind about the Gaulish warrior. Why do you think Apollo changes his opinion of Lu? How do Lu’s actions contribute to this change?

Explore the use of humor in the novel, citing at least three examples from the text. How does author Rick Riordan’s use of humor enhance the reader’s enjoyment of the novel?

In the corporate headquarters of the troglodytes, Apollo states that helping each other is the only way to be civilized. Do you agree with Apollo’s statement? Support your answer with examples.

Meg is Apollo’s demigod master, which means Apollo is bound to obey her. As Apollo prepares to descend to Python’s lair, Meg tells Apollo, “Just come back to me […] That’s an order” (327). What does Meg’s statement tell the reader about the changing dynamics between her and Apollo?

Emotional abuse and abuse within families are important motifs in the novel. Discuss how the novel suggests dealing with bullies and emotionally abusive parents, specifically using the Meg-Nero and Apollo-Zeus relationships as examples.

Why does Apollo feel like an impostor when he returns to Olympus at the end of the novel? How has his relationship with his former home changed, and why?

Grappling with Python, Apollo falls through Tartarus. As Python spirals into Chaos, Apollo encounters the river goddess Styx. Using textual and online research, explore the significance of these places in Greek mythology. How does Riordan’s interpretation differ from the source material?