The Glassmaker

Describe the dynamics within the Rosso family. Why is Orsola so loyal to her family, and does this loyalty ultimately help or hinder her? Provide specific examples from the text to support your interpretation.

The history of Venice presented in the novel is essentially an account of waning power and influence. What factors lead to Venice’s political decline over time? What geopolitical events have the strongest impact on the city, and the Rosso family?

Chevalier implicitly compares a devasting 16th-century plague to the COVID-19 pandemic. How does the narrative convey the similarities and differences between these two experiences of contagious disease?

How does Orsola both challenge and conform to social norms and expectations, especially those imposed upon women? What boundaries is she willing to cross, and which traditions does she strive to uphold? How do these decisions reveal her key values?

Why are Orsola and Antonio drawn to one another, and why do they both choose not to make the necessary sacrifices to secure a future together?

How does Chevalier illustrate the myriad ways in which major historical events and figures impact the lives of ordinary people?

Analyze the relationship between Orsola and Stefano. How does this marriage meet the needs of both spouses? Would Orsola have been happier had she chosen to pursue a relationship with Antonio? Why or why not?

Orsola begins the novel as an ambitious young girl. To what extent does she realize these ambitions over the course of her life? What compromises and concessions does she make, and does she judge these choices to be worthwhile?