4. Describing going into the subway with Celestial for the first time, Roy describes the stairs as going into a dark world like the dark scene in what film?

5. What does Roy cook for breakfast on Christmas day in Part Three: "Generosity"?

Short Essay Questions

1. What advice does Walter give to Roy before his release?

2. What happens in the climax of the novel?

3. What does the pear represent in the novel?

4. What impression did Big Roy have on Andre at Olive's funeral?

5. Why did Olive and Big Roy never have more children?

6. What chafes Roy about his release from prison?

7. What is the significance of the title of Part Three: "Generosity"?

8. What does Celestial describe praying for in Part Two: "Prepare a Table for Me"?

9. What is Davina's home like? What does she cook Roy for dinner?

10. How does Roy describe his first experience in Brooklyn with Celestial?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the theme of betrayal in An American Marriage. What characters betray one another? Why? Do you think their betrayals are justified? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the characters of Big Roy and Walter Jenkins. What is each character's relationship like with Roy? How does each character feel about Roy and how does he express those feelings?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze and discuss the character of Roy in An American Marriage. How old is Roy? Where is he from? Where did he attend college? What career did he enter into? What led to Roy's arrest? How does the arrest change Roy's life?

(see the answer keys)

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