Consider Chesterton’s presentation of the dichotomy between Reality Versus Fantasy in his novel. Does he believe these two ideas are mutually exclusive, or do they refer to the same concept? How does his representation of these concepts compare with the piece of literature or media from your response to the Personal Connection Prompt?

Teaching Suggestion: This Discussion/Analysis Prompt asks students to connect their response to the Personal Connection Prompt regarding the theme Reality Versus Fantasy to the context of the novel. Consider having them discuss/analyze the way Chesterton blurs realistic and fantastic situations through the lenses of plot twists, sudden shifts in the setting, and revelations about the other members of the council.

Differentiation Suggestion: Students who struggle with abstract thinking can explore the prompt specifically through the theme Identity and Disguise. For example, the Professor, a seemingly old and frail man, runs more quickly than Syme through the streets of London, and Sunday, with a notably large and impending physique, also moves lightly and swiftly through the city.

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

DEBATE: “Religion in Chesterton’s Novel”

In this activity, students will argue either for or against the assertion that Chesterton’s novel is an example of Christian literature.