Neverwhere

Research the common characteristics of the trickster figure throughout literature and mythology and identify several ways in which the Marquis de Carabas both conforms to and transcends these tropes.

Neverwhere often blurs the boundaries between fantasy and reality. Identify and analyze at least two scenes in which the narrative injects doubt about whether London Below is truly real. Does the novel ultimately support or reject this interpretation?

Throughout Richard’s adventures, he encounters a number of people who are unhoused and generally overlooked. Analyze the ways in which Gaiman uses London Below as a metaphor to critique mainstream society’s attitude toward “people who fell through the cracks in the world” (137).

Consider the character of Islington. What motivates the angel’s violent actions, and how does Gaiman characterize this antagonist’s mental state?

Research the history and geography of London and analyze at least three specific scenes in which Gaiman draws upon real-world events and legends to enhance the magical setting of London Below.

Consider Mr. Croup and Mr. Vandemar. How does Gaiman use their actions and mannerisms to add a note of sinister humor to the novel’s most violent moments? What function does this humor serve?

Neil Gaiman is known for adapting mythological elements to create unique urban fantasy narratives. Using this tendency as a focus, choose another of Gaiman’s novels (e.g., American Gods or Anansi Boys) and compare and contrast the two novels’ use of mythological concepts to deliver a critique on modern-day social issues.

Choose two or three secondary characters (e.g., Old Bailey, the Earl, the Black Friars, Lamia, etc.) and examine how their presence helps to characterize the quirks and dangers of London Below.