October - The Way of All Flesh

[JV]

Thought I'd post some proposed discussion questions to prompt us to engage a bit more:


Character & Relationships
1. How does the father-son relationship evolve from John Pontifex to Theobald, and then to Ernest? What does this progression reveal about generational conflict and the impact of upbringing?
2. What advantages does the author gain from having Overton serve as the narrator, and how does his perspective influence the story?
3. Why is Christina, Ernest's mother, presented more sympathetically than Theobald? What effect does this have on the reader's understanding of the family dynamics?
4. How does the novel maintain Ernest's credibility and relatability despite his significant changes from foolishness to wisdom?

Themes & Narrative
5. What is the purpose of the numerous philosophical digressions throughout the novel?
6. How does the author's humor contribute to his purpose, and what specific elements of the humor make it especially effective?
7. What is the relationship between external and internal hindrances to Ernest's development?
8. How does The Way of All Flesh critique societal and familial expectations and their impact on an individual's potential?
9. What does the novel suggest about the nature of redemption and the quest for identity amidst adversity?

Literary Devices & Symbolism
10. What symbolic events foreshadow Ernest's eventual philosophical and religious position?
11. How does the use of irony contribute to the novel's meaning and impact?
12. What is the significance of the title, and how does the biblical allusion to "the way of all flesh" enhance the narrative?

Broader Context
13. What does the novel say about the interplay of faith and reason in the pursuit of truth?
14. How do the actions and choices of the characters reflect or comment on the challenges and values of the society in which they live?