Athena believes the fates are in control, while Lore argues the power of free will. To what extent does fate control the characters’ lives? In what parts of the narrative does a character break from expectations and make their own choice? In what circumstances do choices and twists lead to a predetermined outcome? Consider these points as you build your ideas.

• As she and Lore travel to help others at the Frick, what does Athena say about the Fates? (Chapter 25)
• What is Lore’s response to Athena’s belief about the Fates?
• Which characters seem to demonstrate clear free will?
• In what scenes does it seem like fate is more in control?
• How does the ending of the novel support fate and/or free will?

Teaching Suggestion: Examining the definitions of fate and free will before the larger discussion might help students more fully access this complex question. It could be beneficial to participate in a philosophical line as an introductory or concluding activity for this discussion. One end of the philosophical line represents the fates and the other end of this continuum represents free will. After being presented a scene from the novel, students determine the extent to which that scene represents fate or free will.