Many critics have pointed out the satirical aspects in Six Degrees of Separation. Keep in mind that satire employs ridicule, humor, or wit to critique human nature and institutions with the aim of instigating change. Do you believe the play is satirical? Provide reasons for your answer.

Paul discusses the demise of imagination in his Catcher in the Rye speech. How does his monologue demonstrate his imaginative abilities?

Research the state of race and class relations in America during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Do you find the Kittredges to be realistic portrayals of affluent, white New Yorkers? Justify your response.

The play makes references to various works of art. If you were to represent the play visually, what would it look like?

Imagine Ouisa had reached the Waverly Theater before the police apprehended Paul. What do you think she would have said to him? Write out their conversation.

At the conclusion of the play, Ouisa states about Paul, "He did more for us in a few hours than our own children ever did." Does the play validate this statement? Explain your perspective.

In his review, William Henry, III notes that the play "confronts the ambivalence that the sane feel toward the mentally ill" and labels Paul as "pathological." Do you agree with this evaluation? Why or why not?