Lorna Doone

Through his narration, John expresses regret for showing mercy to Carver Doone as it leads to his shooting of Lorna and John on their wedding day. However, he continues to spare Carver’s life after these events. Is John truly regretful of his mercy? Why or why not?

John sometimes behaves in a manner which is inconsistent with his self-description. Is John a reliable narrator? Why or why not?

John repeatedly expresses that he is not to blame for encouraging Ruth Huckaback’s affections towards him. Is he? Why or why not?

John considers his story to be one of “love at first sight,” though he does not see Lorna, or even think of her often, for seven years. Do you agree with this assessment of their love? Why or why not?

There are instances which may be foreshadowing events which do not come to pass (e.g. Lorna’s death, Ruth marrying John, a tragedy in Annie’s life). Is this intentionally misleading on the part of the narrator or purely coincidental? Why?

There are several supporting characters who affect the plot of the story. Which of them is most critical to the book’s sequence of events? Why?

John ruminates on the concept of fate and how his actions have unexpected consequences. Which small action had the biggest effect on the story?

John often asserts the goodness of his mother, Annie, Lorna, and Ruth. Which character to you consider to have the highest moral value?