Essay Questions

How does the Jackal justify and explain his cruelty towards Darrow?

When the Jackal's associates find out how badly he treated Darrow, including months of torture and imprisonment, Jackal essentially tells them that Darrow deserved it. He argues that the purpose of it was to punish him as "this thing presumed he belonged among us. Like he was an equal." As such, Jackal's cruelty towards Darrow is a result of hatred and discrimination, because Darrow was born a red.

Why does Darrow struggle to work out his feelings towards Mustang?

Although Darrow loves Mustang, he struggles with his feelings towards her as he is also still in love with his wife, who was killed in the first novel. As such, Darrow struggles to reconcile his feelings and feels as though he is betraying his dead wife. To make things more complicated, Mustang is a gold, which Darrow struggles with as the golds have caused him so much pain.

What is the significance of the opening of the novel?

The opening of this novel is significant, as it begins with Darrow's imprisonment. This is a dramatic and intriguing opening, as the reader is eager to know what will happen next, and whether Darrow will escape. As such, the opening is effective in keeping the reader engaged.