Discussion Group

For reading groups: Discussion questions to accompany Macbeth’s Niece:

1. What traits does Tessa exhibit that make her unique and perhaps unmarriageable? How does the standard differ today?

2. The author explains a bit of Macbeth’s background. How does this help you understand why he might have usurped the throne?

3. Is Tessa’s reaction when she hears rumors of her uncle’s terrible crimes understandable? What factors in a family relationship often excuse or soften bad behavior?

4. Describe Tessa’s father, Kenneth. How did he balance somewhat her mother’s animosity toward Tessa?

5. What kind of person is Bannaugh? If you had to cast him in a movie, what would he look like?

6. Meg is the opposite of Tessa’s mother. Why does Kenna favor the older sister?

7. Why is Tessa bored at her uncle’s castle? Can we attribute it to her youth, her character, or something else?

8. If you were a movie director casting Macbeth’s Niece, who would you choose to play the major characters? Minor ones?

9. Jeffrey’s brother William is an unpleasant character. How do we see this in his treatment of his brothers?

10. Aidan, Jeffrey’s half-brother, has made a place for himself in the family. Describe his duties.

11. Eleanor offers Tessa a chance to marry an Englishman. Is she right or wrong to take the opportunity?

12. After Macbeth’s defeat, Tessa is helped by a crippled woman. What does this section add to the story?

13. Tessa is without resources in London, but friends rally to help her. Would you have acted differently at any point? Explain.

14. We know that romances end happily. How does the story create enough tension to make you keep reading?

15. What factors will affect the likelihood of future happiness for Jeffrey and Tessa? What have they learned that may help?