Topic 1

What do you think of Susan and Oliver Ward’s marriage? Do you think they would have been better off marrying other people? Did Susan truly love Oliver or was he a distraction from Augusta?

Topic 2

What are your views on the inferiority and superiority of the West and East? Do you think that those who settled the West were inferior to those in the East?

Topic 3

Do you think Susan is judgmental of people? She did not grow up rich, but sees poor people as inferior. Do you think her relationship with Augusta influenced her in a negative or positive way?

Topic 4

What do you think of Susan and Frank’s relationship? Were they inappropriate? Are they to blame for the death of Agnes?

Topic 5

Is there a connection between the marriages of Oliver and Susan Ward and Lyman and Ellen Ward? Are there any...