In this, Harris's most popular novel, we find many of his trademarks: psychological insight, the inclusion of authenticating details, and villains who genuinely frighten us. Discussion on any of Harris's works might consider his penchant for humanizing the inhuman, for suggesting the depths of good and evil in each of us, and for arguing that although good may triumph over evil it often does so only at great cost.

In The Silence of the Lambs, specific areas of interest include Harris's creation of a strong female protagonist, his psychological insight into major characters as diverse as Jame Gumb, Catherine Baker Martin, and Clarice Starling, and the strange appeal of Dr.

Hannibal Lecter.

1. Why does Hannibal Lecter capture our interest so strongly? What qualities of his character are so intriguing?

2. This novel suggests that the question of evil is problematical in connection with individuals like Jame Gumb...