The Magnolia Palace

What is the significance of the scar on Mr. Frick’s hand? How does this symbol emphasize the themes of the novel?

Lillian was referred to, during her heyday, as the “Gilded Age Muse.” Why was she referred to as a muse? What is the significance of the term? What are some other examples of the concept of muses throughout the book?

Miss Winnie claims that when she killed Mr. Frick, she freed Helen. Is Miss Winnie right? How might Helen’s life have been different if Mr. Frick had lived?

Lillian has always wanted to be an actress, and she uses her acting skills in different situations. How does Lillian utilize her modeling and acting skills in her everyday life? Offer specific examples.

The novel examines the relationships between women—as friends, mothers, daughters, and sisters. Discuss Davis’s exploration of female relationships in the story.

Both Lillian and Veronica are models, although they are 45 years apart. Why does Davis give both women the same profession? How does this duality deepen the meaning of the text? How does the magnolia motif—highlighting transience—come into play with the characters’ modeling?

Analyze Davis’s use of real historical figures in The Magnolia Palace. Why might she have chosen to include them alongside fictional characters? What does this historical element add to the novel?

Research the historical Henry Clay Frick, with an emphasis on his business gambits, entrepreneurial ethics, and professional aspirations. Is Davis’s interpretation of the character a neutral and logical extension of what you learned in your research? Or does she take significant creative liberties? Cite specific examples, both from the novel and from historical accounts.