In the Heat of the Night

What techniques does Ball use to set up plausible suspects to misdirect the reader?

What characteristics and behaviors does Virgil Tibbs exhibit that surprise the Southern city of Wells? How does the town respond, and what commentary is Ball making about racism through their responses?

What lesson, or lessons, does Virgil learn by the end of the story? What does he teach the other characters? Use at least three direct quotes in your paper.

How does Bill treat characters like Delores and Harvey? How does he treat the Endicotts? What commentary is Ball making about class and race through these characters and their interactions?

Is Bill a sympathetic character? Why or why not? Describe his character arc and use direct quotes to develop your argument.

Pick at least two characters that are marginalized and mistreated by the Wells community. Why are they mistreated, and how? Do any characters realize they’re treating these characters unfairly?

Compare and contrast Duena and Delores. Does the novel create complex women characters? Why or why not? What do these characters tell the reader about the role of women in Southern society?

Does the novel’s commentary on racism and law enforcement feel relatable to today? Compare one of the crimes in the novel to a current event. How have these issues improved or remained the same?