Pamela answers “Do you think the character who calls...”

Maureen asked this question about Bad Actors (Slough House, #8):

Do you think the character who calls himself Spartacus (helping Shirley at the Sans rehab center during the attack) is River Cartwright?

Pamela I notice that this author inserts references to classic works (i.e. in this book there are some to Shakespeare, as well as to theatrical acting). But …moreI notice that this author inserts references to classic works (i.e. in this book there are some to Shakespeare, as well as to theatrical acting). But in this scene he is referencing the 1960 movie Spartacus. Here in the book, bad actors are looking for Shirley Dander. One of the other patients falsely identifies herself as Shirley and then one says "I am Spartacus". In the Spartacus film some evil soldiers are looking to crucify the leader of a group of rebellious slaves and threaten to kill them all if they don't identify him but all of them start shouting, "I am Spartacus" to confuse the soldiers and as a sign of solidarity. Thus in this book, both of Shirley's co-inmates are showing courage and signifying that they are on her side and ready to do battle as though they are her, the accused one, even though the odds are against them.(less)

flag

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more