Black Dogs Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

Black Dogs Topics for Discussion

Given what the narrator tells you about himself, why do you suppose he was interested in writing the story of June and Bernard Tremaine?

Discuss the similarities between June and Bernard's seemingly disparate methods of achieving utopia.

Cite two examples of symbolism in the novel, and discuss what you think the author intended to convey with these symbols.

Do you believe Jeremy helped or hurt the Tremaine family by writing such a personal memoir? Why?

Do you believe science and spirituality are incompatible? Why or why not?

Describe June's experience with the black dogs from Bernard's point of view. When you have completed the assignment, review Bernard's arguments and indicate whether they ring true.

Do you think the story would have turned out the same if June had made more of an effort to include Bernard in her experience initially, instead of assuming he would not understand? Why or why...
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