That Hideous Strength

Who are the characters at Belbury? What are their roles? What does the group represent? Do they achieve their goals, and, if so, how?

Mark Studdock is concerned throughout the narrative with being part of the in-crowd. Trace this desire from the beginning—including the narrative’s look at his adolescence—to the end of the narrative. Include examples of the groups he wants to be a part of and what happens with these groups.

As best as you can, describe the eldils and their earthly counterparts. Are they angels?Aliens? Give textual examples and references to prove your answers.

The Dimbles, the Dennistons and the Studdocks are often compared in the narrative. How are these couples similar? How are they different?

Anthropomorphism is a popular topic in the narrative. Describe moments of anthropomorphism in the book. What do characters like MacPhee and Ransom have to say about this?

Plot the N.I.C.E.’s rise to power from the beginning of the narrative to the end. How did the Institute gain a foothold and how was this foothold taken away?

The narrative mentions many characters that, to the N.I.C.E., are expendable. Describe some of these characters, such as Hingest, and explain why they were expendable.

Merlin is seen as someone who is neither good nor evil. How does Dr. Dimble explain Merlin’s role in the world? How is Merlin’s worldview different than the viewpoint of those he works with in the twentieth century?