Chain of Gold

Write a character portrait for Grace Blackthorn, drawing from your own impressions of her, as well as the descriptions of characters in the book. Why does James describe her as a “fire blazing,” while Matthew sees her as “very quiet”?

Based on the observations and experiences of Cordelia, Grace, and Lucie, explore the gender norms of the novel’s setting. Do you think social pressures influence the decisions and characteristics of these young women? If so, how?

Will Herondale tells his son James that love is worth suffering for. What do you think Will means by this statement? Based on your interpretation of Will’s words, choose two textual examples of characters suffering for love, and discuss whether it is “worth” it to the characters.

Why does Matthew Fairchild often dismiss himself? Do others underestimate him as well? What impression does he leave on you? Support your answers with examples from the text.

Why does Tatiana Blackthorn hate most Shadowhunters? Frame your answer citing evidence from both the text and secondary sources.

Alastair thinks the only alternative to being bullied is to become a bully. Do you agree with him? Think of a real or hypothetical situation in your life where you had to (or would need to) choose between the two options. Describe what you did (would do) in such a situation.

The text references a few tales from Persian folklore and legend, including the tale of Layla and Majnun, and the story of Tawaddud, the clever slave-girl. Choose and research any of the two tales. Write a brief report on the story, focusing on why the author includes them in her book.

Chain of Gold includes quotes by several authors such as William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and Alfred Tennyson, among others. Choose any work quoted in the book and write a short report on how the work relates to Chain of Gold or why author Clare includes it.