Sex and Vanity: A Novel

Explore Lucie’s reasons for feeling like an outsider in high society. Consider how she behaves and speaks in comparison to others, as well as how others speak to and behave around her. Explore how Lucie’s background and dual heritage play into these social dynamics.

How does Lucie’s time in Capri upset her internal balance and disrupt her sense of control? What conflicts does she encounter while here? How and why does she struggle to resolve these conflicts? In what ways does her time in Capri mark a turning point in her adult life?

Explore how Lucie’s familial history, background, and relationships contribute to her sense of self. Consider Lucie’s dynamics with her mother, grandmother, brother, and cousin Charlotte. How do these characters regard and treat Lucie? How and why does she tailor or assert herself according to these dynamics?

Craft an argument that either refutes or supports the following claim: Lucie gets engaged to Cecil Pine to prove her self-worth. In crafting this argument, consider how the relationship materialized, how Cecil treats Lucie, how Lucie behaves around Cecil, and the overarching trajectory of the relationship.

Consider George’s character as a narrative device. What changes or disruptions does he create in Lucie’s life? How does he contrast with the other characters, and what is the significance of these contrasts? How does he inspire Lucie to make choices that she otherwise would not have made?

Explore George’s and Cecil’s characters as foils of one another. Analyze the characters’ speech patterns, modes of self-expression, hobbies, behaviors, and pastimes. Consider also how each character evokes something different from Lucie. What is the significance of the characters’ effects on her?

Lucie claims her voice by the end of the novel. Why was she previously unable to speak her mind? Consider the ways each of Lucie’s relationships contributes to her self-realization. Identify specific confrontations that Lucie has with others that compel her toward growth and newness.

Craft an argument supporting the notion that Sex and Vanity is a Satire of High Society. Identify specific passages, formal elements, and narrative events that illustrate the novel’s humorous and absurdist lens. What do these satirical elements imply about high society?