The Coquette is an epistolary novel, meaning it is comprised of a series of letters between various characters. How does this style affect the reader’s understanding of the tragic nature of the novel? What advantages does an epistolary novel have over a traditional novel in terms of characterization?

Eliza Wharton tends to modify her language depending on who she is writing to. How does her use of language change from recipient to recipient? How does this affect how the reader views her character?

Eliza Wharton is referred to as a “coquette” at several points in this novel, by characters such as Mr. Selby, Lucy, and Mrs. Richman. Examine these instances. What do they reveal about the characters that view her this way?