Questions for Study
Discuss the parallels between Alas, Babylon and the traditional western.
Is Alas, Babylon an optimistic novel? Why or why not?
What is the role of the female characters in the novel?.
Analyze the political events that the novel portrays leading up to a nuclear exchange. Is it convincingly portrayed?
Discuss the aftermath of "The Day." How does the novel portray the breakdown of order?
Why does Edgar Quisenberry commit suicide? What does his death illustrate?
What are the symbolic roles of the image of darkness, and the radioactive jewelry, in the story?
What is the novel's political message?
