Updike spends much time creating the world of the novel with evocative descriptions of Mt. Judge and Brewer. This area of Pennsylvania is as much a character of the novel as any person. Write an essay about the setting of the novel. How does Harry Angstrom react to it? What does he feel about it? Does anyone in the novel every leave the area? How many people express any desire to do so?

Essay Topic 2

The world of RABBIT, RUN is one in which the past and present become intermingled. Harry constantly looks to the past for inspiration and comfort. Other people look back with a certain sadness. Write an essay about the past's role in the novel:

Part 1) How do Harry and Janice look back on the beginning of their relationship with a mixture of yearning and disdain? What did each expect from the relationship? How did the birth of Nelson change things?

Part 2) What is the high point of Harry Angstrom's life? What memory from this high water mark does he repeatedly recall throughout the novel? What does this memory do for him?

Part 3) What specific episodes from Ruth's past does she recall as she lays by the swimming pool with Harry? How do these memories inform her expectations from Harry? What does she expect and fear?

Essay Topic 3

Harry Angstrom is referred to often by his old nickname, Rabbit. The names Harry and Rabbit become virtually interchangeable. Write an essay on the symbolic significance of this nickname. How did Harry get it, and why is he alright with it sticking as it does? What does the nickname mean in terms of his worldview? His reliability? His idea of self?

(see the answer keys)

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