In Cold Blood

In Cold Blood Discussion Questions Part II Name Period

Answer the following questions fully in your chapter group. Jigsaw. Share your answers with your new group.

I. The Townspeople

(ch. 1) Describe the actions and feelings of those involved in the Clutter home clean up.

(ch. 3) Discuss Myrtle Clare’s attitude toward her fellow Holcombites.

(ch. 5) Discuss the details revealed in Susan Kidwell’s testimony.

(ch. 12) Explain the significance of Mrs. Browne and Mrs. Ashida. Why does Capote include their stories?

(ch. 14) What information did Paul Helm share with the investigators? Who is Jonathan Daniel Adrian?

II. The Investigators

(ch. 2 and ch. 7) Take notes on the following:

Facts: Evidence on the scene:

Theories: One-killer theory

Two-killer theory

Robbery theory

Rumors:

Leads:

(ch. 16) History of crimes in the area 1920 1947 1952 1956

Explain the metaphor “squalls preceding a hurricane.”

(ch. 17) Describe Marie Dewey’s Dream III. Criminals’ Activity

(ch 4) Contrast Dick and Perry’s attitudes toward the murders.

Discuss Perry’s dream of the parrot.

(ch. 6) Describe the killers schemes to get money.

(ch.8) What are Dick and Perry doing in this chapter?

(ch 10-11) Describe the doubts and fears of the criminals.

(ch. 13) Describe the activities and company of Dick and Perry. How does Capote reflect back to the parrot dream?

(ch. 18) What are the men doing in the Mojave desert?

IV. Perry’s Background / Father’s letter/ Sister’s Letter/ Willie Jay’s response

(ch 15) What are Dick and Perry’s plans?

Explain Perry’s dad’s letter: “A History of My Boy’s Life” childhood youth recreation and interests relatives

Explain the main idea of Barbara’s letter. Pay particular attention to the idea of personal responsibility.

Discuss Willie Jay’s response to Barbara’s letter. Does he agree? Explain.

V. Perry’s Background / Perry’s Memories Describe and discuss the significance of all of the following: Flo Buckskin Tex John Smith Catholic orphanage merchant marines army accident Alaska arrest