1. Critics of Fritz's historical biographies contend that Fritz illustrates common human characteristics that can be seen in men and women of any period. What are some of the characteristics of Benedict Arnold that appear to be "timeless"?

2. In Traitor, Fritz defines two different types of heroes: the brave, dashing military hero that Arnold becomes during the war, and the rather different kind of hero he hopes to become after the war. How do these two types differ?

Is one better than the other? What do these two definitions say about society in general?

3. Fritz begins her book by focusing on Arnold as a small boy, who lacks confidence and feels unimportant. Trace the change in Arnold from an obscure youth to the most infamous traitor in American history, showing how specific incidents bring out character traits.

4. Technically, the Americans who...