The Dragon Republic (The Poppy War, #2)

Since the novel is told from Rin’s third-person limited point-of-view, we understand other characters through her observations. Using these observations, analyze how Nezha changes throughout the novel. What motivates him to behave as he does?

While the Hesperians were absent in The Poppy War, they are an important part of The Dragon Republic. How do they affect the events of both novels?

Sister Petra reminds Rin of Shiro, the Federation scientist who experimented on her in The Poppy War. Compare and contrast Petra and Shiro, focusing on their ideologies and religious motivations in addition to their actions.

Research the 1911 Xinhai Revolution and the Chinese Civil War, which were the real-like inspirations behind Vaisra’s revolution. What are the similarities and differences between these historical events and the fantasy events in the novel?

The Hesperians, the Nikara, and the Ketreyids and Naimads have three different approaches to religion. Analyze their approaches to religion and how their religious beliefs affect their ideologies and actions.

Analyze Rin’s relationship with two of these four characters: Nezha, Kitay, Venka, and Daji. How do they each complement and offset different parts of her character?

What is Vaisra’s philosophy for war? Does he truly fight for the people of Nikan?

According to the novel, how are various characters—protagonists and antagonists alike—complicit in the oppression of the people of Nikan?