Blonde: A Novel

The novel is broken down into five different parts. Explore each of these parts in depth, and explain key themes in each. What themes unite each part, and what themes persist throughout Norma Jeane’s life? Why do you think the last part is entitled “The Afterlife” even though she is alive?

This is a fictionalized account of the life of a real, historical person. Consider this fictionalization, and explore reasons why Oates might have chosen this perspective. What freedoms does it allow her? What drawbacks does it have? What effect did it have on you as a reader, and how might a reader have responded differently to the book had it been more historically accurate?

One of the major themes of the novel is the extent to which Norma Jeane is sexualized by men. To what degree does she participate in this sexualization throughout the novel? Is this sexualization ever truly desired within the text? If it is, what is the purpose of allowing sexualization within the novel?

Consider the role of birds in the novel. Consider, in particular, hummingbirds as well as the scene at Mr. Z’s aviary. What do birds represent? Why might Oates have chosen birds as a symbol? What might the taxidermized birds of Mr. Z represent?

Each of the main film and stage characters Norma Jeane plays has its own chapter in the novel. Why might this be the case? What is revealed about Norma Jeane through each of these characters? What do the characters give and take from her? How might these chapter titles be related to her method of acting as described in the novel?

Analyze Norma Jeane’s relationship with Bucky, the Gemini, the Ex-Athlete, and the Playwright. How are all of these relationships different and similar? Do any of these men actually love Norma Jeane? Make a case in which you explain why you think the different men either do or do not truly love her. What is she looking for from them, and what are they seeking in her?

Discuss the role that sexual assault and degradation play in the novel. What does the author seem to be implying about the sexualization and commodification of women’s bodies, particularly in the middle of the 20th century, as well as about the impacts of multiple sexual traumas?

Consider the different mother figures Norma Jeane finds in the novel. Which meet her needs in the most significant ways? How do each of these women fail her? Why does she long so much for a mother figure? What does Oates seem to be implying about the role of a mother or a mother figure in a girl’s and a woman’s life?