The Second Mrs. Astor: A Heartbreaking Historical Novel of the Titanic

Discuss the effect that the dual narration, first person and third person, has on the structure, suspense, and conflict of the novel. In what ways do the two perspectives add dimension and depth to Madeleine’s story? What flaws or problems do you detect in this approach?

Trace Madeleine’s relationship with the press throughout the novel and make an argument for her developing strategy for dealing with what we would now call paparazzi. Evaluate the effectiveness of this strategy in comparison to Jack’s counsel about bargaining with photographers. You may also wish to consider the decided turn in Madeleine’s portrayal after she is widowed and becomes the world’s “sweetheart.” You may furthermore wish to draw parallels with how famous figures, especially the wives of powerful men, are portrayed in the media in our own time.

Trace the many moments of foreshadowing throughout the novel, in both event and imagery, and discuss how this adds to the experience of reading. You may consider whether this foreshadowing adds to the suspense, creates irony, detracts from the surprise, or has another effect altogether.