Structure

The structure of The Art Thief plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and heightening the tension throughout the novel. The story unfolds in a non-linear fashion, with alternating chapters between Stéphane's past and present, gradually revealing the events that led to his life as an art thief and the aftermath of his actions. This narrative technique adds depth to the character development and keeps the readers engaged as they piece together the puzzle of Stéphane's life. The use of flashbacks allows the reader to understand the psychological complexities of Stéphane's character. It provides insight into his childhood experiences, particularly his close bond with his grandfather and early fascination with art and artifacts. As the novel progresses, these flashbacks shed light on the origins of his passion for art and how it evolves into an obsessive drive to possess masterpieces. The Art Thief...