Pollyanna

What role does social class pay in Porter’s novel? To what extent does Pollyanna’s work eradicate class boundaries?

Discuss the significance of the motor car that hits Pollyanna. How far do you agree that Pollyanna’s accident is a warning against unchecked optimism?

Do a close reading of Aunt Polly’s character. Do you think she is misunderstood or unlikeable? Explain your answer with passages from the text

Pollyanna is a child in a world of adults. How do you think the novel addresses adult concerns rather than childish ones?

How does the novel present romance as a disruptive force? What role does Porter give Pollyanna within these romantic intrigues?

Do a close reading of the relationship between Pollyanna and Mr. Pendleton. Why might modern audiences view their dynamic as problematic?

Discuss the significance of the glad game in the novel. To what extent is Pollyanna alone responsible for changing the attitude of an entire village?

What do you learn about Pollyanna’s life pre-Beldingsville? How does her Western past influence her outlook and actions?