How do religious symbols come to define each character? What are the differences between the relationships among various ethnicities at the beginning of the novel, during WWII, and at the end, after Partition? What is the significance of these changes? You must address the murder of Masseur, and the kidnapping of Ayah by the Ice-candy-man.

What does the Ice-candy-man represent in the novel? Explain by using examples from the beginning, middle, and end of the novel to delineate how his character appears to change or evolve. How does he become a frightening figure? Why does he kidnap Ayah?

What is Ayah’s role in the novel? How is her fate entwined with the fates of other women in the novel? How do the activities of Lenny’s mother and other women to rescue women affect Ayah? Is Ayah “saved” or not? Explain.