Basic Understanding and Setting
Who is the author of The King of the Castle?
Susan hill
What role does the theme of bullying play in the childhood experiences depicted?
Bullying is a central conflict that shapes the children's interactions
In what ways does the story show innocence or loss of innocence during childhood?
— Through Edmund’s shift from innocence to cruelty and understanding of power dynamics
How is imagination or fantasy used as a coping mechanism for the characters?
—it really isn't and this was a trick question =)
What is the name of the main boy character in the story?
Charles/Edmund
Describe the main character’s relationship with his parents.
Distant and somewhat neglectful
How is loneliness experienced by the children in the novel?
— Both Edmund and Charles feel isolated and misunderstood
What role does language and communication play in the children’s relationships?
— Language is used to intimidate, tease, and assert control
Where does the story primarily take place?
— In a large old house called Warings
How does the setting contribute to the atmosphere of childhood in the novel?
— The house’s eerie and isolated setting creates a sense of fear and loneliness
What symbolic significance does the “castle” have in relation to childhood?
— It represents a throne of power but also isolation and vulnerability
How does fear drive the actions of the children in the story?
— Fear motivates both bullying and withdrawal, shaping their behavior. It also affects their actions and their very, very negative thoughts.
Name one other child character besides the main boy.
Fielding
What childhood fears are explored in the story?
— Fear of isolation, being powerless, and cruelty from peers
How do the children’s interactions reflect social hierarchies common in childhood?
— Edmund asserts dominance over Charles, showing power struggles typical in childhood groups
Compare how childhood is experienced differently by the main character and another child.
— Edmund uses power to protect himself, while Charles suffers more passively
How does the Charles feel about the house at the start of the story?
He feels unsettled and scared
How does the Edmund try to establish power over others?
— By intimidating and dominating Charles
How does the novel portray the transition from childhood to adolescence?
— Through growing awareness of cruelty, fear, and desire for control
How does the ending reflect the overall message about childhood in the novel?
— It suggests that childhood can be a struggle for power and survival, not just innocence