A discussion that approaches The Honorable Barbarian with a serious tone may get nowhere. The novel is a light adventure, telling of a young man's growth to maturity and his adventures in exotic setting with cultures that often bemuse him. Therefore, perhaps a discussion of the book should be in a lighthearted vein, inviting laughter at de Camp's humor as well as respect for how he blends theme, tone, and action.

1. In what ways is the world of The Honorable Barbarian reminiscent of our own? Why would de Camp incorporate aspects of our world into his fantasy world?

2. What are the sources of comedy in the novel?

3. Does the novel make any serious comments on cultural chauvinism?

4. Why would de Camp shift the focus of his Unbeheaded King series from Jorian to Kerin? What narrative possibilities does Kerin's characterization offer that Jorian's characterization does not?

5. Why...