Discussion Questions for To the Lighthouse, pp. 145-170

  1. What motivates Lily to begin her painting again? (146-147)

  2. Why does Lily find Mr. Ramsay so irritating in the morning before he sets off for the lighthouse with James and Cam?

  3. Why does Lily tell Mr. Ramsay he has "beautiful boots" and what is the effect of this comment on him? (153-154)

  4. What does it mean for Cam and James "to resist tyranny to the death"? (163)

  5. What does James remember when Cam appears poised to give up on their pact against Mr. Ramsay? (168-169)


John D. Schwetman
February 2, 2001