Eternal

The concept of family is expanded on throughout the novel. How does this extension conflict with Massimo’s understanding of lineage? How does this extension inform Nonna and Elisabetta’s relationship?

Rome functions almost as a character, providing a layered setting for the novel. How does Rome itself represent the complex relationship between Elisabetta, Marco, and Sandro? Include evidence from the text.

Briefly research the Ghetto. How does the novel’s depiction of it compare to the real setting’s history?

The Fascist Party perpetuates and exploits toxic masculinity to recruit young men like Marco. How does the text explore the struggles to conform to masculinity through characters like Marco?

The novel’s five parts begin with epigraphs from outside sources. Choose one part’s epigraphs and explain how they reflect the part’s themes.

How does Eternal function as a metanarrative? Include evidence from the text.

Historians have long debated the roles of Pope Pius and the Catholic Church in resisting Nazi occupation. How does the novel handle Catholic resistance? How does this compare with current understandings of the Catholic Church’s role?

Italian fascism emphasized the glories of Ancient Rome—how does the novel depict the connection between Mussolini and the Roman Empire? What images, metaphors, or other literary devices are used to display this alleged connection?