The Whipping Boy

Why does Prince Horace run away, and why does he insist that Jemmy join him? Are the prince’s hopes for a new life realistic? Is it surprising that the prince wants to run away, even though he seemingly lives a life of luxury and privilege?

What factors make it possible for Prince Horace and Jemmy to eventually become friends? What do they end up having in common, despite their different backgrounds? Are there any barriers or differences that would have made it impossible for the boys to trust and respect each other?

What role do minor characters Captain Nips and Betsey play in Jemmy and Prince Horace’s development? Why is it important that the boys receive help from others, rather than resolving all their problems themselves?

Billy and Cutwater are malicious but largely incompetent. How does their depiction relate to the novel’s themes? How would the story be different if Jemmy and Prince Horace had faced more fearsome antagonists?

For most of the novel, Jemmy is insistent that he wants to leave the castle and return to his former lifestyle. Why does he eventually change his mind about doing so? What would he miss from his castle life? Do you think Jemmy will be happy staying in the castle indefinitely?

At the end of the novel, the king seems sympathetic to his son running away. Why do you think this is the case? How does this sentiment relate to the novel’s themes?

The novel establishes a juxtaposition between practical knowledge (Jemmy’s street smarts) and theoretical knowledge (the traditional academic subjects taught by tutors). Which, if either, is shown to be more valuable? Should an individual’s future role in society determine their focus of study?

What kind of king do you think Prince Horace will grow up to be? Do you think the lessons he learned from his adventure will have a permanent impact, or will he revert to his bad behavior? What kind of role do you think Jemmy will play in the prince’s future?