Characters
This character is the protagonist and narrator of If We Were Villains, serving a ten-year prison sentence.
Who is Oliver Marks?
This Shakespearean tragedy, featuring themes of ambition and murder, is staged by the Dellecher students on Halloween in If We Were Villains.
What is Macbeth?
The murder of this character sets the tragic events of the novel into motion, testing the bonds among friends.
Who is Richard?
This theme, represented by Oliver’s loyalty to his friends and his willingness to sacrifice, is pivotal in If We Were Villains.
What is loyalty?
Known for her beauty and stage presence, this character often plays female leads and is one of Oliver’s closest friends
Who is Meredith?
In If We Were Villains, the students often quote lines from this tragic love story, where fate plays a central role.
What is Romeo and Juliet?
The novel reaches its climax as Oliver confronts this character, revealing the truth about what happened to Richard.
What is James?
This theme, centered around the act of performing and concealing one’s true self, is a major element in If We Were Villains.
What is deception?
As a lover of Shakespeare, this character is seen as the "villain" among the group of friends, often playing darker roles.
Who is Richard?
This Shakespearean play about jealousy and betrayal is referenced in the novel, mirroring tensions among the characters.
What is Othello?
After Richard's death, the friends each grapple with this feeling, reflecting on their roles in his downfall.
What is guilt?
Much of the group’s relationship dynamics echo this theme, often leading to a tragic outcome and puts them against each other.
What is rivalry?
The person in charge of the cult like school Dellecher.
Who is Dean Holinshed?
The play that discusses the idea that people will blame other for disaster, Oliver's final performance.
What is King Lear?
Oliver’s prison sentence spans this many years, during which he reflects on the events that transpired.
What is 10 years?
The novel frequently explores this theme, inspired by Shakespeare’s tragedies, focusing on retribution and justice.
What is revenge?
A talented third-year drama student at Dellecher and Alexander’s love interest.
Who is Colin Hyland?
This famous Shakespearean line, “All the world’s a stage,” reflects the characters’ commitment to performing roles in life and on stage.
What is As You Like It?
In the novel’s present-day scenes, Oliver is interrogated by this person, trying to uncover the truth about the events.
Who is Detective Colborne?
The author’s frequent use of Shakespearean language and setting contributes to this overall atmosphere in the novel.
What is theatricality?