World Without End

Caris realizes that the “plague was not just a physical sickness” (718). What are the political, economic, and social impacts of the plague?

Consider the religious leaders in the novel. Their duties are “political as much as religious” (85), but political and religious values are often in conflict. How does each leader resolve this conflict? How do their choices affect the church and town?

Caris comes to believe that “some people flourished in an atmosphere of anarchy, and others did not” (840). Which characters thrive in anarchy, and which do not? What accounts for the differences between these characters?

Discuss the significance of the bridge and cathedral as symbols of the state of the town and the church.

Matthew Barber, Caris, and Mattie Wise practice medicine by relying on reason—particularly observation and experimentation—while monk-physicians like Brother Joseph rely on formal education and ancient authorities on medicine. What does the success or failure of these approaches to medicine tell us about Follett’s perspective on the power of human reason?

Ralph manages to rise in status throughout the novel. Why is that, despite his propensity for violence and pettiness? What does his success tell you about the values of medieval England?

In his October 2007 Independent (London) review of World Without End, critic Bill Greenwell writes that “[s]tyle takes second place to structure and plot” in the novel. How would you describe the style of the novel? Do you agree with his assessment? Use support from the novel in your response.

While commoners and minor nobility are the focus of the novel, figures like Queen Isabella of France, Edward III, and Philip VI exercise a powerful influence over the lives of the characters. What is Follett’s attitude toward these characters and how they use their power?