The Bean Trees Papers & Assignment Topics

Essay Topics/Writing Assignments

These 20 essay questions can be used as essay questions on a test, or as stand-alone essay topics for a take-home or in-class writing assignment. Students should have a full understanding of the text in order to answer these questions. They ask for a thorough analysis of the text.

1. How does Taylor change throughout the novel? How do her ideas change, and which characters have spawned the most change in Taylor?

2. Growing up in Pittman, Kentucky, Taylor was often compared to Newt Harbine. After Newt's death, Taylor seemed determined to flee Pittman. Did she fear that she may end up like Newt? Do you believe that Taylor is similar to Newt? How? Why do you think this?

3. Throughout the novel Taylor's perception of men is ambiguous. They do not seem to be an important part in her life. ...
(read more)