59 pages • 1 hour read
The Man In The Black Suit
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Essay Topics
The story takes place in 1914. Besides the onset of World War I in 1917, what other historical events were taking place in the United States at that time?
All Stephen King’s works are set in Maine. However, like Castle Rock, the town of Motton is fictional. In your opinion, why might the author have chosen to set his stories in fictional locations, rather than real ones?
Nathaniel Hawthorne’s story “Young Goodman Brown” inspired “The Man in the Black Suit.” Read Hawthorne’s story and compare or contrast three elements not discussed in this guide.
Many theories exist about the man in the black suit. In your opinion, is he the Devil? Is he real or imaginary? Cite examples from the text to support your interpretation.
Sensory details are integral to King’s storytelling. Find five examples for each sense—taste, smell, touch, sight, sound—and discuss their importance.
“The Man in the Black Suit” contains many images and symbols. Identify three new symbols and discuss their importance.
What does the Devil mean when he asks Gary, “Are we well-met?” Why is this phrase important?
Narrative pacing is the speed at which an author reveals information and events. Pacing is essential in the horror genre because the author must balance character development, suspense, action, scares, and rest. How does King use pacing to control the events in “The Man in the Black Suit?” Identify moments where the story speeds up or slows down. How do these moments affect the reader’s experience of the story?
In your opinion, does 90-year-old Gary need to fear the Devil? If no, why not? If yes, what will happen to Gary when the Devil returns?
What would you do if the man in the black suit appeared? Do you believe you would be able to escape? Support your answer.
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By Stephen King
