A Calamity of Souls

Identify one internal conflict in the text. How does the novel develop it? Is it resolved? If so, how? If not, why not? What is one message or theme conveyed by its resolution or lack thereof?

Identify one protagonist and one antagonist in the text. How does the protagonist change? How does the antagonist facilitate that change?

What is the tone of the final two chapters of the text? Cite specific examples in your analysis.

Research David Baldacci’s life. What aspects of the novel relate to his personal life?

In what way is Howard Pickett relevant to today’s political landscape? Discuss specific characters and events from the last decade, while citing specific quotes from Pickett.

Chose two to three characters, such as Battle, Hilly, and/or Frank, and discuss where they fall on the spectrum of good and evil. How does the novel depict them this way? What do their characters say about the nature of people in general?

In what ways does the setting of a courtroom uniquely impact the novel? How does the setting propel tension?

Research the 1968 Presidential election. In what ways are the events of the election and the political atmosphere surrounding it reflected in the novel? Discuss at least two characters and two conflicts.