A World Without Princes

Locate the text’s allusions to classic fairy tales such as Cinderella, Bluebeard, Snow White, and Rapunzel. How do these allusions reinforce or subvert traditional fairy tale tropes? In what ways do they reflect or challenge ideas about gender roles, morality, and the nature of “happily ever after”?

Investigate the symbolism of characters’ names. What might the name Evelyn Sader reveal about her nature, motives, and goals? How do Agatha and Sophie differ, and what light do their names shed on their characters? Consider whether their names foreshadow their journeys, reinforce key personality traits, or offer ironic contrasts.

Why is the text divided into two distinct parts? What effect does this structural division have on the reader’s understanding of the story? How does it reflect the novel’s themes of transformation, shifting power dynamics, or the instability of traditional fairy tale endings?