Why does John Williams alternate between using “William” and “Stoner” to refer to his main character? What does this say about the novel’s themes of identity? What does this say about the role of environment in the protagonist’s life?

How does Stoner’s upbringing on a farm inform his adulthood? What does this reveal about his beginnings and his view of hard work? What does this say about the transition America was going through at the turn of the 20th century?

How does Archer Sloane change Stoner’s life? Analyze the significance of Archer Sloane on Stoner’s character development. How does his introduction of literature to Stoner’s life help shape Stoner’s identity?