Because McCarthy is so reserved in his characterization techniques, it should prove especially interesting to discuss the motivations of his characters and the extent to which they should be admired. There is plenty of room for controversy. Is John Grady's determination to retrieve his horse heroic, or is he feeling recklessly self destructive because Alejandra has just broken his heart? Is Alejandra to be viewed as a strong female character or is she ultimately weak-willed? Is Jimmy Blevins a sympathetic, fated boy, or does he get what he deserves?

It should also be fruitful to compare the male and female characters in this novel. McCarthy is not noted for his creation of strong female characters, but, as one scholar has observed, in this novel John Grady's mother, Alejandra, and the Duena Alfonsa all have a certain amount of power and control.

1. What is the effect of...