The Tale of Despereaux

Despereaux recounts his own unfolding story when braving the dungeon on his own terms, in order to give himself strength. Which parts of your own story give you strength when things feel impossible, and why?

Gregory believes he is a prisoner of the dungeon, even though some would call him its master because he is able to navigate using a rope. He remarks on the irony of his situation: The thing that helps him (the rope) is also that which confines him. What other ironies exist in characters’ lives, and do they consider them opportunities or hindrances? What does this say about their attitudes?

When soup becomes illegal, soldiers collect the kingdom’s kettles with an apology of “just doing my job.” Hovis also apologizes to Despereaux for “doing his job” when affixing the red thread of death. How do these clashes of personal morals play into the novel’s treatment of destiny?

Despereaux and Roscuro’s tails are both severed over the course of the story. How do their scenes differ, and what do their reactions say about them?

How does the novel explore the theme of empathy through shifting perspectives?

Soup is a significant symbol of love in the novel. What are some other symbols of love? What symbolizes love in your own life?

Why do you think Chiaroscuro chooses to go by Roscuro? Why do you think he continues to do so even when he’s allowed to roam upstairs?

Who would you consider the main character of the novel? Compare the different characters’ perspectives and try to recount the general plot from another’s untold point of view.