Ideas for Reports and Papers

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

1. L'Engle has expressed that she believes everything in the universe is interconnected; therefore, if something impacts one individual, it influences the entire cosmos. How does this perspective shape A Wrinkle in Time? Does this concept bear any resemblance to the Hindu and Buddhist idea of karma? If so, how?

2. When Calvin visits the Murry family for the first time, he mentions that it feels like coming home. What is missing in his own family life that causes him to feel this way? What does the Murry family offer that his own family does not? Why is Calvin drawn to Meg, who views herself as a social outsider? What unique qualities does she have that Calvin notices but she has yet to recognize in herself?

3. L'Engle considers herself a Christian author, yet her book does not directly reference the Bible or Christian teachings. What values does A Wrinkle in Time emphasize as significant? How do these values align with those found in the Old and New Testament, and in what ways?

4. Meg struggles with authority, particularly when she perceives rules as nonsensical or trivial, especially concerning her issues at school. What is it about Mr. Jenkins, the school principal, that irritates her? Why does he view Meg as a troublesome student?

5. Despite Charles Wallace's high I.Q., he still falls prey to his major flaw: pride. How does IT take advantage of this weakness? What does IT want from Charles Wallace? How close does IT come to achieving its goal, and why does IT ultimately fail?

6. Read one of the sequels to A Wrinkle in Time: A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, or Many Waters. Focus on one character and analyze how this character evolves or develops in the subsequent book.

7. Choose several "unreal characters" (such as Mrs. Whatsit or Aunt Beast) and an "unreal" setting (like Camazotz) and discuss how L'Engle makes her fantastical creations feel believable.

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...