The Floating Opera

What effect does Barth achieve by having Todd break the fourth wall? Cite at least three instances where the novel breaks the fourth wall and explain what they contribute to the narrative.

Use a feminist lens to analyze the character of Jane. What is her significance to the novel overall? Describe her character arc to develop your argument.

How does Todd’s outlook on life change throughout the novel, and what message, if any, does Barth give the reader about life through Todd’s character arc?

Citing at least three examples, explain how Todd is an unreliable narrator. Did his unreliability make him more, or less, sympathetic?

Describe how Todd’s father’s death impacted Todd. What commentary is Barth making about father and son dynamics through their relationship?

Do you think Todd and Harrison have a healthy friendship? Explain.

What effect does Barth’s use of humor have on the novel? Cite at least three examples and use direct quotes.

Is Todd a fundamentally cynical character or is cynicism a persona that he adopts to cope with the trauma he has experienced? Use evidence from the novel to support your answer.