34 pages • 1 hour read
The Lords of Discipline
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Book Brief
512
Novel • Fiction
Charleston, South Carolina • 1960s
1980
Adult
18+ years
910L
Super Short Summary
The Lords of Discipline by Pat Conroy chronicles four years in the life of cadet Will McLean at the Carolina Military Institute, exploring his experiences with brutal hazing, racism, personal relationships, and honor. The plot traces Will's bond with roommates, oversight of the institution's first Black cadet, and investigation into a secret society, The Ten, all set against the backdrop of military life in the South. Topics include suicide, racism, and hazing.
Gritty
Challenging
Melancholic
Emotional
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
32,467 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Pat Conroy's The Lords of Discipline is praised for its vivid storytelling and deep emotional impact. Readers appreciate the intense portrayal of camaraderie and the dark, oppressive atmosphere of military academy life. Criticisms include the book's sometimes graphic content and perceived melodrama. Overall, it remains a powerful and engaging read.
Who Should Read The Lords of Discipline?
A reader who would enjoy The Lords of Discipline by Pat Conroy is likely intrigued by coming-of-age stories that explore themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal integrity within challenging environments. Fans of A Separate Peace by John Knowles and The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger may find this book particularly compelling.
32,467 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Tradd St. Croix
Tradd St. Croix
A cadet from a prominent Charleston family, Tradd is distinguished by his refined manners and deep loyalty to his friends, Will, Mark, and Pig, despite his gentle demeanor setting him apart from the group.
Mark Santoro
Mark Santoro
A no-nonsense cadet with a strong physical presence and Italian-American background, Mark shares a bond of integrity and perseverance with Will, forming a part of their close-knit group.
Dante Pignetti ("Pig")
Dante Pignetti ("Pig")
An immensely strong and dedicated cadet from New York, Pig is known for his loyalty to his friends and his fervent dedication to physical fitness, while sometimes exhibiting impulsive and violent tendencies.
Annie Kate Gervais
Annie Kate Gervais
A spirited young woman from a struggling Southern family, Annie Kate develops a significant connection with Will McLean amidst her own personal difficulties and societal challenges.
General Bentley Durrell
General Bentley Durrell
The president of the Carolina Military Institute, the General is initially seen as the epitome of honor and discipline, carrying a notable military reputation and acting as a stern authority figure within the narrative.
512
Novel • Fiction
Charleston, South Carolina • 1960s
1980
Adult
18+ years
910L
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