Flaubert's Parrot | Topics for Discussion & Projects

Flaubert's Parrot Topics for Discussion

Discuss how art and life intermingle in the novel. What is Barnes trying to tell us about this relationship? How do both Flaubert and Geoffrey react to it?

Discuss why Geoffrey is searching for an understanding of Flaubert.

The novel features a number of unconventional chapters for a work of fiction. Why do you think Barnes includes these formats?

Compare and contrast Louise Colet and Ellen Braithwaite. Do you think the chapter from Louise's perspective is meant as a way for Geoffrey to look back on his wife? Why or why not?

Compare and contrast Geoffrey and Flaubert. In what ways are the two men similar? Different?

Discuss the idea of the past as something shifting and uncertain.

How does the search for the truth about the two parrots mirror Geoffrey's search for the truth about his marriage?

Choose one of the questions posed in the "Final Examination" chapter and...
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