The Tainted Cup

Fantasy settings are still created by real-world authors who have real-world experiences. Does the social or governmental system in The Tainted Cup resemble any real precedents? Does the novel praise or critique these systems? Why?

The Tainted Cup draws from the fantasy and detective fiction genres. How does the novel use the tropes of these genres? How does it combine or subvert them?

Compare Din’s mentors in the novel. What does he learn from each? How do these mentorships contribute to his development?

Discuss the novel’s take on the value and importance of pleasure.

The physicality of the titans seems symbolic—their faces resemble humans, their bones make weapons, their blood is magical, their size is threatening and otherworldly. What do these creatures represent? What role do they play in the novel’s world?

Miljin is convinced of his own inefficacy in the Iudex. Does the novel support his view? Use details from the text to argue why or why not.

Compare corruption and righteous zealotry in the novel. Are they opposites? Why or why not?

How do Din and Ana’s different skills mutually reinforce one another? What would they lose if they worked alone?