Topic 1

Compare and contrast the characters of Sarah Woodruff and Ernestina Freeman; and the characters of Charles Smithson and Mr. Freeman. In what ways are these pairs of characters similar? How do they differ? How do they fit into the grand scheme of Victorian culture?

Topic 2

Explain social Darwinism. How does it fit into the plot of John Fowles’s novel, The French Lieutenant’s Woman? Explain which characters are supposed to be the stronger social actors, and why; and which characters are supposed to be the weaker social actors, and why. Which of the characters ultimately is the fittest?

Topic 3

Discuss Victorian society as portrayed in the novel. What words describe Victorian England, and why? What relevant historical context for Victorian England does John Fowles provide? Why is this important given the plot of The French Lieutenant’s Woman?

Topic 4

Discuss the theme of hypocrisy prevalent...