Study Questions and Suggested Essay Topics
Study Questions
Keeping in mind their behavior toward Mitchell in the first chapter, are Hammond and George racist? What definition of "racist" do you use in this context, and use evidence to support your opinion.
Why do Mitchell and Paul warn Nathan never to befriend a white man?
What differences exist between Mitchell and Paul in their reaction to bigotry? Whom do you respect more? Why?
Suggested Essay Topics
What events and factors contribute to Paul's decision to repudiate his father's authority at the horse fair?
Should Paul's father have raised Paul differently? If so, how differently?
Why did Taylor entitle the novel The Land? Write one or two other possible titles and explain why they are appropriate.
What events and factors led to Robert's betrayal of Paul? Do you sympathize with Robert or blame him? Do you think, overall, that he is a good brother or a bad brother? Why?
Why is owning land so important to Paul?
Why does Taylor start and end the book where she does?
