49 pages 1 hour read

James M. Cain

Mildred Pierce

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1941

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Essay Topics

1.

Consider the novel’s take on single motherhood in 1941. Does the novel approve of Mildred trying to balance work and parenting? Why or why not?

2.

The novel’s male characters are largely self-centered and sexually predatory; its female characters have to manipulate men to achieve what they want. Does this spell doom for an emotionally and intellectually companionate marriage? Why or why not?

3.

Consider Mildred’s relationships with women. How do her interactions with them change during the course of the narrative?

Related Titles

By James M. Cain

Study Guide

logo

Double Indemnity

James M. Cain

Double Indemnity

James M. Cain

Study Guide

logo

The Postman Always Rings Twice

James M. Cain

The Postman Always Rings Twice

James M. Cain