A Lost Lady -- Discussion Questions

 

1. It seems to me that there are at least three parallel plots in this novel: the legend of Captain Forrester, the tragedy of Marian Forrester, and the rite of passage of Niel Herbert. What do you think? Whose story is it? And is Marian's story a tragedy?

2. Read again the epilogue. Why did Cather conclude the novel this way? Do you think it adds to the novel, or does it detract from the story?

3. Again mythology plays an important part in the novel. Consider how the following myths play out in A Lost Lady: Oedipus, King Arthur, and Hippolytus.

4. "Lady" appears in the title of Cather's novel. Consider the possible advantages and disadvantages of this gender classification as they play out in Mrs. Forrester's life.

5. What aspect of Cather's writing style did you most admire? Select a page that contains a passage you especially enjoyed. Why did you select it? Can you identify any literary techniques that she used? For example, how does Cather use names in the novel? What symbols are especially striking? Compare Cather's style with Schaefer's style in Shane.

6. Trace the change in Niel. What "crisis" precipitates each change in his life? Does he learn from each crisis?

7. Trace the "decline" of Mrs. Forrester. What is your attitude toward her at the end of the novel? Pity? Scorn? Admiration? Is she a woman before her time? How?

8. How are nature and the land described by Cather? How is the land treated by the following characters: Ivy, Mr. Forrester, the immigrant settlers. What image does Forrester's house evoke?

9. What role does social class play in this novel?

10. I have to ask this question because at least one critic has raised it: Is Niel a prude?