Gallimard serves as the narrator throughout the play. The fantasies and flashbacks are his. Write a characterization of Gallimard and how he fits in with the structure of the play.

1. What was Gallimard's life like growing up? How did his days as a youth help to create the man he is now?

2. Describe Gallimard's relationship with women. Is Gallimard an attractive man? How does his physical appearance reflect his place in society? How does he talk to women? What is his sex drive like?

3. Descibe Gallimard's relationship with his wife. Why did he marry her? What is his opinion of love? How does that affect his interactions with other characters and his actions in the play?

Essay Topic 2

There is a distinct relationship that is established between Song and Gallimard that relates to the stereotypical relationship between the East ("the Orient") and the West.

1. Gallimard's view of his relationship can be translated as give and take. What is it that Gallimard offers to Song in their relationship? What does she give him in exchange?

2. How does the relationship between Gallimard and his Butterfly reflect the relationship between the East and West?

Essay Topic 3

Who is the Butterfly in M. Butterfly? Write an essay backing your argument.

1. At the beginning of the play, who does Gallimard cast as Butterfly? What is his reasoning for doing so?

2. Who does Gallimard claim is the Butterfly at the conclusion of the story? Describe how and why the situation has changed during the progression of the story.

3. Describe Hwang's use of symbolism during Gallimard donning of the Butterfly costume at the play's conclusion.

4. Do you feel Hwang's choices were strong? How would you choose to end the play?

(see the answer keys)

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