The Haunting of Chas Mcgill and Other Stories

by Robert Westall

Start Free Trial

Ideas for Reports and Papers

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

1. Westall masterfully crafts his chilling tales around the haunting allure of a house or an enigmatic building. Delve into how these structures become the spine of his narratives.

2. Delve into the mysterious and significant presence of cats throughout Westall’s storytelling universe.

3. Westall’s literary repertoire is a tapestry of diverse styles, from stark realism to spine-tingling supernatural tales. Categorize the stories within this collection based on their narrative essence.

4. Paint a picture of England as it is vividly depicted across time in these tales—both in its yesteryears, its present, and its imagined futures.

5. Often, the eerie narratives unfold through the perspective of the protagonist. Does this enhance the element of fear? Identify instances where this isn’t the case and discuss how shifts in perspective alter our engagement with the stories.

6. What sinister elements lurk as the sources of dread in Westall’s narratives?

7. An enduring theme in Westall’s oeuvre is the profound impact of war on the individual soul. Investigate the myriad ways war shapes the lives within his various novels and tales.

8. Analyze how Westall employs dialect as a tool to mirror the character's essence and origins.

9. Westall frequently delves into the intricate dynamics between fathers, sons, and grandfathers. What do these familial bonds provide for the characters entwined in them?

10. Critiques of Westall's portrayal of women often point to their alleged simplicity and stereotyping. Where do you stand? Examine the portrayal of female characters in these stories and how they evolve across Westall’s career.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Next

Topics for Discussion

Loading...