Oppression was a key component of Communist power. Why did the Communists in power like Stalin go through such lengths to oppress their people? What tactics did they use? Were these tactics successful? Why or why not?

Discuss the concept of human spirit. Where in the book are instances of the triumph of human spirit found? In what ways does Ginzburg accede to the triumph of the human spirit?

Discuss the concept of consolation. What is consolation? In which ways did the women attempt to find consolation, and attempt to offer consolation to one another? Were their efforts successful? Why or why not?

At the beginning of the book, Grandmother attempts to get Ginzburg to leave. Why is this? What does Ginzburg end up doing? Why? Does she regret this choice later on? Why or why not?

Rarely, kindness prevails among the Soviet guards...