The Bell in the Lake Reading Guide & Discussion Questions

Book Club Discussion Questions

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For supplemental discussion material see our Beyond the Book article, Stave Churches and our BookBrowse Review of The Bell in the Lake.

Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

Introduction

Lars Mytting, bestselling author of Norwegian Wood, brings his deep knowledge of history, carpentry, fishing, and stave churches to this compelling historical novel, an international bestseller sold in 12 countries. With its broad-canvas narrative about the intersection of religion, superstition, and duty, The Bell in the Lake is an irresistible story of ancient times and modern challenges, by a powerful international voice.

Discussion Questions

1. What do you think the legend of Halfrid and Gunhild Hekne and their mother who died in childbirth meant to the townspeople of Butangen?
2. In what ways are the settings of Butangen and Dresden different? How are they similar?
3. How do the social norms and etiquette of the times influence the characters and their decisions? How are norms upheld, and how are they subverted?

Unless otherwise stated, this discussion guide is reprinted with the permission of The Overlook Press. Any page references refer to a USA edition of the book, usually the trade paperback version, and may vary in other editions.