Masterpiece

The philosophical discussion of the virtues takes a center stage in several chapters. Which virtue do you believe is the most important? Which virtue do you believe is the least important? How do the virtues relate to one another?

Marvin is a good judge of character when it comes to humans. How does Marvin’s ability to read people help him throughout the novel? Are there any instances where he is mistaken about someone?

Discuss the importance of taking risks. How do the characters take risks in the novel, and how does it work out for them?

Marvin compares friendship to artwork in the final chapter of the novel. How does the novel illustrate Marvin’s observation that “a great friendship [is] like a great work of art” (287)?

How would the story differ if Marvin were a human instead of a beetle? In what ways would the plot be altered if the main characters were both human boys instead of a beetle and boy?

Christina and Denny share a passion for Dürer, which is what leads Marvin to assume Christina is in on the theft. In what ways are Christina and Denny similar, and in what ways do they differ from one another? How do their actions reflect their values?

At the end, Marvin indicates that Christina and Karl could be like a second artistic family for James. Which family do you think would benefit James more, the Pompadays or Karl Terik and Christina Balcony?

James sees the drawings as a joint effort between himself and Marvin. To what extent does James contribute to the artwork? Do you think it’s fair for James to consider himself part of the team?