Essay Questions

What is the central paradox in the novel The Notorious Benedict Arnold by Steve Sheinkin?

The central paradox in the novel The Notorious Benedict Arnold is that Arnold was a celebrated hero in the American Revolution but he later betrayed the same country he fought for a long time. Arnold led various successful battles against the British, which helped America to gain independence in 1776. Ironically, Arnold’s selfish ambitions drove him to work with the British without the knowledge of American agencies.

How does Steve Sheinkin explore the theme of ambition in the novel?

The theme of ambition plays a central role in developing the novel’s plot. Several characters, ranging from Arnold and André, are ambitious because they want to prove they can rise from their downfalls. Arnold and André were born into wealthy families whose riches later vanished into thin air. For instance, Arnold joins the American military to accumulate wealth and disapproves of those who thought he would never rise again. The same applies to André, whose family lost its fortune during the harsh economic times. André climbed the ranks in the British military to uplift his family to its lost glory.

Why did Arnold and his wife think they would receive a heroic welcome in London?

Arnold and his wife looked forward to a triumphant welcome in London after betraying America in favor of the British Army. Arnold thought that after arriving in London, he would be given a senior position in the military because of his role in helping the British army. However, Arnold and his wife never received a laudable welcome after arriving in London. Therefore, Arnold engaged in various business ventures in London but failed miserably. He died in 1801, and his wife, Peggy, died three years later.