Heart of a Dog Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

Heart of a Dog Topics for Discussion

Discuss freedom. How is Philippovich's freedom hampered by the house committee specifically and the Communists generally? How is Sharik's freedom hampered by the collar and leash given to him at Philippovich's house?

Discuss the religious allusions in the story. Who is described as a prophet? Who is described as a god? Who is described as a priest?

Philippovich explains to Bormenthal that it's impossible to get living creatures to respond to force. They respond best to kindness. Does Philippovich always follow his own advice? Do you think he's correct?

Sharik the dog readily forgives Philippovich and Bormenthal for the surgeries at the end of the book. Do you think animals really "forgive?" Would you forgive someone who did the same thing to you?

Each human character has his or her own escape from reality. Philippovich likes the Bolshoi. Zina likes the movies. Sharikov likes the circus. What would Sharik the...
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