The Hero's Walk

Does Ammayya’s biography justify her bitterness and animosity towards others?

Following Maya’s death, Nirmala and Sripathi argue. On page 35, Nirmala shouts, “I am tired of behaving myself!” Does Nirmala continue to obey the rules and follow those around her or does she begin to rebel? Explain.

Sripathi’s father escorts his mistress from Sripathi’s initiation ceremony, causing Sripathi to promise himself that, “Never would he fail in his duty to his family or subject them to such shame” (61). What repercussions did this event have on Sripathi’s psyche and future behavior?

Duty, honor, and family play important roles in the novel. How did Maya’s marrying Alan conflict with her family’s understanding of these words? What might have prompted Maya’s decision aside from her love for Alan?

Torturpuram is a fictional town. What aspects of Indian life found within this fictional town are not fictional?

What roles do female characters play in the novel? What does this reflect about Indian culture and society?

As much as Sripathi scorns Arun’s behavior, they are very similar to one another. In what ways are they alike and in what ways are they not?

Which character best exemplifies the Hero’s Walk? Explain.