Study Questions and Suggested Essay Topics
Study Questions
The entire novel is narrated by Bradley Pearson. Does his account of events appear to be true or untrue? Discuss the effect of his narration upon the novel.
What exactly does the title of the The Black Prince mean?
Several different marriages are profiled in the novel with substantial commentary upon the nature of marriage. What is Murdoch's feeling on the subject.
Suggested Essay Topics
Hamlet is referenced numerous times in the novel. How does that play relate to the plot of The Black Prince?. Which character in the novel most clearly appears to embody Hamlet's dilemma, and why?
Rachel and Arnold Baffin continually insist in the novel that Bradley is in love with Christian. How do you think that Bradley truly feels about Christian and why?
Discuss the plot of Der Rosenkavalier and analyze it in relationship to the plot of The Black Prince. Why does Murdoch bring the plot of Der Rosenkavalier up in the final postscript right before Bradley Pearson dies.
Christian Evansdale has lived in America for many years. In what way does her character reflect an American identity?
Discuss the character of Francis Marloe. What is his importance in the novel?
