Peyton Place

How do Constance’s past and her secrets impact her relationship with her daughter? What fears and hopes does Constance harbor for Allison? How might Allison’s emerging attitude towards romance and sexuality reflect beliefs she has absorbed from her mother?

As an outsider, what is Tomas (Tom) Makris able to perceive about Peyton Place? What surprises him about the world of the small town? In what ways does Tom have a positive impact on the town, and on Constance in particular?

Why does Selena choose to confide in Dr. Swain? Why is the doctor such a respected member of the community? What character traits does he embody while deciding on whether or not to help Selena?

Many of the minor characters are portrayed with their own secrets, hypocrisies, and foibles. Choose one minor character (for example, Evelyn Page, Hester Goodale, Marion Partridge) and analyze what they bring to the narrative. How does the novel benefit from the inclusion of many minor characters, even if some are only presented briefly?

Why does Allison become interested in becoming a writer? How does she develop skills that will serve her in this career? Does Allison’s experience growing up in a small town help or hinder her ability to become a writer?

What is the impact of Constance revealing to both Tom and Allison that she has never been married, and that Allison is an illegitimate child? How does this impact her relationship with both of them? Would Constance have been happier if she had revealed this secret sooner?

Why do Selena and Joey initially decide to conceal Lucas’s death? Was it feasible that the secret would remain concealed? Is the town supportive of Selena once the secret comes to light? Why does Selena decide to remain in Peyton place once her trial is over?

To what extent do characters face consequences for their actions as the plot unfolds? What factors make it possible or impossible for a character to avoid consequences?