Because it is a historical novel, Death of the Fox can inspire discussion of historical as well as literary matters; readers may want to read a biography of Walter Ralegh in preparation for discussion of actual historical events.

And because the novel's historical and literary truths are complex and subtle, Garrett's book encourages readers to consider all side of its central concerns.

Can a writer convey the truth about a historical era or even a historical event? This may be the broadest philosophical question prompted by this book. The broadest literary question readers will want to consider may be, does Death of the Fox, a novel, finally tell unambiguous truths about its (fictional) characters? From these general questions, readers can proceed to logically related specific ones — or readers may prefer to consider specific issues such as those suggested below before attempting generalization. Death of the...