Topic 1

What makes Bender and Hawkins so likeable to the Irishmen? Why do they enjoy Hawkins’ company if he is so argumentative and opinionated? Why are they executed and why doesn’t Bonaparte encourage them to escape openly? Are they just doing their duty in killing the two Englishmen? If so, what makes them feel so guilty after the outcome?

Topic 2

Compare the soldiers in Attack to those in Laughter. How are they similar and how are they different? What role do women play in both of the stories and how are they different? What are the soldiers trying to accomplish in Attack? What about in Laughter, or is their goal completely clear to the reader?

Topic 3

Discuss Jumbo’s wife’s betrayal of him. Was it really a betrayal? Why does she instantly regret her actions the moment men come for Jumbo? Why is she so...