Hannibal Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

Hannibal Key Questions

In Hannibal Harris examines themes of violence, revenge, abandonment, and memory through the characters of Hannibal Lecter and Clarice Starling.

1. What is it about the characters Hannibal Lecter and Clarice Starling that makes them so fascinating?

2. How has Lecter's character changed throughout the novel?

3. How has the relationship between Hannibal and Clarice changed throughout the novel?

4. Why do you think Harris uses a female character as the lead criminal in the opening scene?

5. What improbabilities or inconsistencies are there in the plot of Hannibal?

6. Does Lecter's propensity for Chateau d'Yquem, white truffles, and Bach's Goldberg Variations stereotype him?

How?

7. Many readers of Hannibal have objected to the ending. Do you agree? Does the ending diminish Clarice's character?

8. What is the nature of the psychological...
(read more)