The Thorn Birds was generally referred to as an Australian Gone With the Wind (1936), hence the frequent comparisons of Ralph to Rhett Butler.

Meggie, however, bears no serious resemblance to Scarlett O'Hara — except perhaps that both women are survivors. Her family is only faintly reminiscent of the aristocratic Georgia families such as the Wilkses or O'Haras. Meggie has Drogheda, like Scarlett has Tara; both women bear a deep love for the land — their land.

In a situation reminiscent of the famous play and movie The Hasty Heart, and faintly recalling One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962), a newcomer into the group stirs up conflicts, repressed sexual passions in both sexes, resulting in breakdowns, violence, and three deaths.