The Blackthorn Key

What is the significance of the special occasions and saint's days included in the section headings? What does this show about the society Sands depicts?

Compare and contrast Christopher and Tom. How does Tom inform the reader's understanding of Christopher? In what ways is Tom a foil to Christopher? Use examples from the text to develop your argument.

Compare and contrast Lord Ashcombe and Oswyn. How does the reader's understanding of these characters change throughout the novel? What does this show us about Sands' view of those in power?

Select one of the institutions Sands depicts in The Blackthorn Key: the Church, the Apothecaries' Guild, the monarchy, the orphanage, or another institution of your choice. What is its social role? How do the characters associated with this institution illustrate its social role?

Sands uses Bridget, the pigeon, for several important narrative roles. How does she shed light on Christopher's relationship with Master Benedict? Use examples from the text to support your argument.

Compare and contrast the first and last explosions Christopher makes in the book. How does his experience with the first inform the reader's understanding of the last?

Select a group of minor characters shown in the book: Tom's family, the other apprentices, or the Guild members. How does Sands differentiate the characters in the group you chose? How does that inform the reader's understanding of British society at this time?

How do those in power treat members of different religions in The Blackthorn Key? What are their reasons for doing so? Use multiple quotes from the text to illustrate your point.