Many of Marek’s actions can be traced back to the lack of parental love in his life and his desperate attempts to get this care from others. Compare and contrast two characters whom Marek seeks attention from, noting the ways he tries to get their attention and their response to him.

Gender dynamics are central to this novel. Compare and contrast how Jude views Agata with how Grigor comes to view Ina. How does the way each man views women influence their character arcs?

While Father Barnabas blames the drought on Satan, the villagers could have survived if they’d had access to the manor’s reservoirs. How does Lapvona explore how religion can be used as a tool of societal control?