Topic 1

What were the inspirations for David Henry Hwang in writing “M. Butterfly”? How factual are the events in the play? What research did the author do in developing the story? In what ways does the character of Gallimard resemble Bernard Boursicot? How does he differ from this real-life individual? How traditionally is the play structured? How is this reflective of its inspiration?

Topic 2

How does the character of Gallimard evolve throughout the story? How old is Gallimard when is introduced to the audience/reader? Where is he located? When do the flashbacks in the narrative take place? How is Gallimard described in the flashbacks? When did Gallimard first marry? What was the outcome of his marriage? What happens to Gallimard at the end of the play?

Topic 3

How does the play mirror the plot of Puccini’s opera, “Madame Butterfly”? Who represents Pinkerton from “Madame Butterfly...