The Buried Giant

Father Jonus poses this question to Beatrice: “Is it not better some things remain hidden from our minds?” What are three ways life is better for characters in the novel with things “hidden from their minds”?

Axl and Beatrice struggle with aging throughout the novel, in both the physical sense and emotional sense. In what ways do they struggle with their age? Moreover, how are they able to overcome their struggles?

There’s a debate regarding paganism and Christianity in the novel. How does the novel explore this debate? Is there a victor, out of the two? 

Using examples from Edwin’s character in the novel, what do you suspect will become of Edwin, now that he is no longer under the spell of the dragon?

Sir Gawain struggles with the demons of his past, his duties to his king, and the chivalry he feels obliged to demonstrate toward Axl and Beatrice. What is one moment from the story that represents each of these things? In the end, does one of those struggles win out? If so, which one?

Birds play an important role in The Buried Giantand come to symbolize different things for different characters in the novel. What are some of the many things they symbolize, and for which characters?

Discuss some elements of postmodernism in The Buried Giant, including intertextuality, irony, and dark humor. How are these elements essential to the narrative?

How might Ishiguro’s novel be read as allegory for more recent, real-world events?