Many people in the book voice their opinions of marriage. Do you think that the book supports marriage or encourages divorce? Explain.

Do the characters deserve their fates? How could the tragic ending be avoided?

What is the significance of Edward's goblet from childhood?

Compare and contrast the characters of Ottilie and Luciana.

What does this book tell you about the Victorian attitude toward rank and class? How important is class to the story?

How would this story be different if it took place today?

Ottilie, Edward, the Captain, baby Otto, and even Charlotte all share the letters "ott" in their names (since the Captain and Edward are nicknamed Otto). Do you think this is intentional? What does this tell you about the relationships among these characters?

Do you think Ottilie is innocent or guilty? How does Ottilie's guilt or innocence compare to Luciana's...