Reading Group Guide Questions
The proverb “Push not the river: it will flow of its own accord” may be viewed as one of twin themes. The other is expressed by Anna’s father: “Sometimes you must put yourself in the way of destiny.” How is the interplay of these two ideas illustrated in the story? Does one predominate?
- The fate of one’s country often influences the shaping of lives—and characters. To what extent does Poland’s fate shape Anna? Zofia?
- How is the theme of a nation’s survival against all odds highlighted by the lives of the characters?
- Jan tells Anna his God is in the grass, rain, flowers, trees, and sky—and yet he is willing to convert to Catholicism for her sake. How is this reflective of his character?
- Her intentions, schemes, and harmful actions notwithstanding, to what extent does Zofia display positive traits?
- Crises in one’s life create and strengthen character. Which events—loss of her parents, loss of Jan, an arranged marriage, Zofia’s schemes, Walter’s actions, foreign attack, other?—affect Anna most in this way?
- How does the theme of women’s rights and roles come into play in this late eighteenth century European story?
- In what ways do the principal female characters—Anna, Zofia, Aunt Stella—underscore the theme?
- Readers often divide ranks when considering Anna and Zofia. To whom were you drawn the most? Why?