His Bloody Project: A Historical Thriller

Did Roderick receive a fair trial? In assessing this question, consider the evidence as it’s presented, whether you believe there is any additional evidence that should have been considered, the motivations of the witnesses, and any prejudices that may have swayed the jury.

What is Roderick’s motivation? Does reality align with the theory put forth by Thomson, the account provided by Roderick himself, or somewhere in between?

In light of the different and often contradictory perspectives in the novel, how can we come to conclusions about what really happened? Is there a convincing narrative that emerges through the clash of these voices?

Thomson’s descriptions of the origins of criminality are antiquated by modern standards. Nevertheless, they offer a relatively nuanced understanding of the factors that drive people to misbehavior—at least compared to other perspectives offered in the novel. What are the limits in Thomson’s framework as it concerns Roderick’s case, and how would you augment that framework to achieve a more wholistic account of Roderick’s crimes?

The novel presents several modes of understanding the world at large, including religion, folk belief, and scientific study. What are the limitations of evaluating life through these, and similar, lenses? What argument does the novel mount in favor of or opposition to these systems of thought and belief?

What argument does the novel mount about the nature of objective truth? Although it is never fully revealed in Roderick’s case, what important concepts emerge in the pursuit of an objective truth in this investigation of his murders?

As clearly as possible, describe Roderick’s beliefs regarding the nature of human behavior, taking into consideration nature, nurture, fate, and free will. Are there any other characters who share Roderick’s views, in whole or in part?

How does Roderick’s social position, and the lowly position of his fellow crofters, factor into his crime? Consider how his social standing informs both the events leading up to the murders and the treatment he receives afterward.