Additional Discussion Questions for The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
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What are your first impressions of Tom the builder? How if at all have your impressions changed when Tom leaves his newborn son alone out in the woods? Do you think he did the right thing? In your opinion what should he have done?
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We learn that Prior Philip decides to take in the abandoned baby. Why do you think he did this? Was it for selfish or unselfish reasons? Does Prior Philip come across as genuine or are you a bit skeptical of his motivations?
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When you first meet Waleran Bigod, what are your first impressions of him does he seem like a truly devout man or does he have other plans and/or motives? What intentions does Waleran Bigod have for Philip?
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William Hamleigh harbors feelings of hatred toward women-except towards his mother. Why do you suppose if he can respect his mother but not respect other women? Do you think his character is the result of his upbringing or is he just plain evil?
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Do you want to see Ellen and Tom unite? And when Ellen leaves Tom what do you think her real reasons are?
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Tom builder and Prior Philip both want nothing more than to build a Cathedral. What were the reasons that each character wanted to build a Cathedral? Would you say these reasons are selfish or altruistic?
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Richard has a financial dependence on Aliena. Would you say it is from necessity or from a lack of ambition on Richards part. Is he contributing in helping Aliena keep their promise to their father to reclaim Shiring? Who do you feel will achieve that goal?
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Jonathan is growing up. Do you think his staying at the monastery is the best thing for Jonathan? What do you think should happen?
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With the unfortunate death of Tom, it has a profound effect on Jonathan. Even though Philip has been his father figure. Do you think that Jonathan somehow knows that Tom is his father?
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After the raid on Kingsbridge, Aliena can no longer support Richard since she lost everything. After all the time that she supported her brother he tells her that he cannot support her. Do you see this choice as his only option? What other options would he have? Is he being selfish or realistic?
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Jack is 20 years old before he finally leans about his father. Ellen claims that she didn't tell Jack so that she could protect him from trying to avenge his father's death. Do you think that is plausible? Or do you think there are other reasons why she never told Jack? If so, what are they?
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Kingsbridge has been ruined before. Fortunately Richard arrives with news of the impending raid lead by William Hamleigh. However, it is Jack who devices the plan and ensures that protective walls are built in time. Who do you think deserves credit for saving Kingsbridge?
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Both religion and faith have been stripped down and rebuilt in order to justify the means to accomplish goals and ambitions for both William Hamleigh and Waleron Bigod. How has each man used religion and faith to get what they want? Is it God's will responsible for some of the happenings in the story or is it simply the work of man?
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Why do you think it is that Philip forgives Remigius? Do you think by Philip allowing Remigius back into the monastery was a dangerous move?
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It was surprising to see a different side of William Hamleigh in Part 6. Do you think he became any less evil in your eyes? Did he become more sympathetic?
