1. The goblin men's fruit is highly alluring, but consuming it leads to severe consequences. What might the goblin men's fruit symbolize for Rossetti? Can you think of any modern-day "fruits" Rossetti might have included if she had written the poem today?

2. How does Rossetti make the goblin fruit appear irresistible to Laura? What role do the goblins play in convincing her to taste their fruit? Why does she purchase it despite knowing she shouldn't?

3. When Laura consumes the fruit Lizzie brings her, it affects her quite differently than the same type of fruit she received directly from the goblin men. Why is this the case? How does Lizzie save Laura? Why do Lizzie's actions heal her suffering sister?

4. Laura and Lizzie mention their deceased friend, Jeanie, twice. What purpose does Jeanie serve in the poem? Why does Rossetti include her?

5. Rossetti sets Goblin Market in a world where daily visits from goblins seem normal. What impact do the poem's fantastical elements have on you? Do they enhance or diminish the poem?

6. Do any of the characters or events seem familiar to you? Can you see aspects of Lizzie, Laura, Jeanie, or the goblins in yourself or others? Are Rossetti's characters believable to a contemporary reader? If you were to adapt this poem to your own school or neighborhood, what changes would you make?

7. What lessons has Laura learned by the poem's conclusion? What will she share with her children?

8. Do you think Goblin Market is best suited for a specific audience? For instance, does it resonate equally with men and women? With both children and adults?

9. Why does Rossetti seemingly conceal her ideas within characters, symbols, and narrative? Would her concepts be more effective in a different format? What might be gained or lost?