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55 pages 1 hour read

Stephanie Garber

Legendary

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2018

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Essay Topics

1.

Some critics argue that Legendary does not fit the romantasy genre because Garber’s primary focus is not on romance. Research the differences between the genres of romance, fantasy, and romantasy and build an argument that supports or challenges this assertion.

2.

While Tella’s desire to assert her own free will is a constant aspect of her character, identify at least two separate scenes that force her to modify her worldview. How do these scenes change her perspective, and which characters are most instrumental in fueling her evolution?

3.

Examine another romantasy novel (such as Fourth Wing, A Court of Thorns and Roses, or The Bridge Kingdom) and compare and contrast its narrative structure and primary themes with those of Legendary. How do Garber and this other author conform to and/or challenge the conventions of the romance and fantasy genres?

4.

Challenge Dante/Legend’s assertion that he is not the hero in Tella’s story. By citing specific examples from the text, conduct a more thorough character analysis to determine whether Dante truly meets the criteria of the Hero archetype.

5.

In a near-climactic scene, Tella takes on the visage of the Shattered Crown and “becomes” the Fate. Analyze how this costume choice influences the novel’s denouement and The Tension Between Free Will and Fate.

6.

How does Garber use key imagery to explore the distinction between reality and illusion? Why might Garber have chosen to make reality and illusion so interchangeable, and how does that fluidity influence Tella’s growth?

7.

Of Tella’s three love-based connections in the novel—Dante, Jacks, and Scarlet—which has the most significant impact on the novel? Cite key examples from the text to support your analysis.

8.

Garber uses strong imagery to identify her characters’ roles within the larger plot. Unlike Dante and his black rose tattoo, Tella has no distinct image delineating her purpose. Decide upon an image that fits Tella’s role in the plot and write a paragraph explaining the elements of the image and why they fit her. You must incorporate at least three elements into the image.

9.

Chapter 40 is a short chapter that steps outside of Tella’s point of view and proceeds from the stars’ omniscient perspective. Conduct a close reading of this chapter, and connect the stars to the novel’s themes. Why did Garber choose to include this chapter rather than skipping to Tella’s return?

10.

Throughout the novel, Tella carries her mother’s opal ring. Armando reminds her that Caraval is focused on what its participants are willing to sacrifice, not what they can gain. What sacrifices does Tella make, and how do her choices influence those around her? How do Tella’s actions emphasize the novel’s primary themes?

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