The General in His Labyrinth

The General in His Labyrinth is a historical novel. How does the novel explore the relationship between creative truth and historical fact? Must the narrative always reflect the true historical account to be considered a historical novel?

How does the General's relationship with women evolve over the course of the novel? Does his attitude toward women change as he nears death? Use citations from the text to support your response.

What steps does the General take to ensure his legacy is portrayed the way he wants it? Will his attempts be successful? Why or why not?

Besides the General, which other characters are haunted by nostalgia for the past? How does this affect their lives in the present?

Labyrinths are made to be confusing, but they always have an exit. Is it possible for the General to find an exit to his labyrinth? Support your response with evidence from the text.

Over the course of the novel, the General struggles to eat. How does his relationship with food reflect his relationship with his body?

José Palacios is the General's most trusted confidant. In what ways does he protect the General, even after the General's death?

García Márquez wrote the novel nearly two centuries after its events took place. How does the author’s perspective from 1989 influence how he portrays the past?