Esteban and Clara

Explain the dichotomy between Esteban and Clara: one a hard materialist, the other a spiritualist. Is Allende perhaps commenting on the dual aspects of human life...the need to incorporate both approaches in our lives?

Clara

Discuss/explain Clara’s attitudinal changes—towards mother, towards daughter, politics, marriage, tenants.

Politics

What role do politics play in the novel?

Esteban

Trace the evolution of Estéban Trueba (remember Rosa, Three Marias, etc.).

Secondary characters

Analyze the importance of various secondary characters: Barrabas, Tránsito Soto, Férula, Nana, Mora sisters.

Isabelle Allende

Who is Isabelle Allende? What are her contributions to the literary world?

Critical Reviews

Read the critical reviews for The House of the Spirits. http://www.isabelallende.com/house_spirits_frame.htm


Now write your own ORIGINAL review for the novel. Be creative.

Magical realism

Research and consider:
What is magical realism? How is magical realism different from fantasy? What elements of magical realism can be found in The House of Spirits.

Epilogue

The Hour of Truth

The Terror

The Conspiracy

The Awakening

The Epoch of Decline

Little Alba

The Count

The Brothers

Revenge

The Lovers

The Time of the Spirits

Clara the Clairvoyant

The Three Marias

Rosa the Beautiful