The Willoughbys

How does Lowry poke fun at classic children’s literature throughout the novel? What is the purpose behind this metafictional element?

Why does Mr. Melanoff refuse to look at his letters for so many years, and what are the long-term effects of this seemingly minor decision?

Why does the fact that the Willoughby children exist in an “old-fashioned” world lead to their decision to send their parents to their deaths? What might have been different if they were in a modern story instead?

What kind of parents are Mr. and Mrs. Willoughby? How do they feel about their children, and what is The Impact of Parental Neglect and Abuse in this case?

How does the nanny teach the children about The Importance of Logical Rules? How does she both embody and transcend the literary cliché of the nanny character?

Why does Mr. Melanoff’s son feel so out of place in Switzerland? How does the narrative portray his discomfiture, and what indications are there that his mother feels the same way about him?

Analyze Jane’s internal conflict and her conflict with her siblings How does she overcome these issues as the story progresses? Use examples from the text to support your interpretation.

What is the difference between a house and a home, as shown in the contrast between Mr. Melanoff’s house before the baby and Willoughbys moved in, and months later?