The Goldfinch

Theo encounters many parental figures throughout the novel. Choose two these figures, compare and contrast them, and discuss the ways in which they influence Theo. 

Illegality and criminal activity figure heavily in The Goldfinch, from drugs to gambling to physical abuse. Choose two illegal activities and discuss how they shape your understanding of one or two characters.

The Goldfinch presents a diverse array of settings. Choose two to three of these settings and analyze how they influence or enhance central events of the novel. 

Throughout the novel, Tartt presents all of the actions through the first-person point of view of Theo. Is this choice effective? How does it shape your understanding of the events of the novel? Consider how this story might unfold if shown through different lenses.

Consider the female characters of the novel. Choose two to three and analyze the way Theo interacts with and conceptualizes them.

The Goldfinch is interested in desire. Choose two objects or people and analyze the way in which a character’s desire comes into play in relation to it. 

Real pieces of fine art come into play in The Goldfinch. How does this aspect of reality give shape and influence how you experience this fictional work?

Boris and Theo have a complex relationship. Discuss the ways in which it develops over time and argue whether or not it was a productive relationship by the end of the novel.