The Aleph

Borges gives various detailed descriptions of Beatriz, through pictures and memory. What do these details reveal about her? How do her character traits play into what later transpires?

Argentino’s poems inspire ridicule throughout the story. How might Borges have reacted if his work were laudable or impressive? How might this have changed the story?

The rivalry between Borges and Argentino provides the tension that carries this story along. Imagine and outline a version of the story in which the two characters trade places, with Borges being the family member of Beatriz and Argentino being the visitor.

Argentino states that, upon discovering the Aleph, “The child could not understand that he was given that privilege so that the man might carve out a poem!” (127). What other actions could he have taken as an adult? What sort of repercussions might these carry?

Borges’s description of the many things seen in the Aleph centers around visions of the earth, whereas the Aleph is said to contain all points in the universe. What else might the author have included in his description if the myth about the Aleph were true?

Borges’s skillful depiction of all space seen at all angles at once is considered a literary achievement. How might he have done the same with the eternal nature of time? Write an analogous passage about time rather than space.

. Borges’s response to the Aleph may come as a surprise to readers given the awe he expressed while viewing it. What other ways could he have reacted to what he had just seen?

In various parts throughout the story, Borges expresses disdain toward the literary establishment that he is, at least partially, a part of. What does this commentary reveal about his career and work?