Broken April

How is Diana perceived by her husband? Is she treated differently, or the same, by the people of the High Plateau? What does her treatment suggest about the role of women in traditional and modern Albanian society?

Using direct quotes, explain how Broken April utilizes setting and weather to develop mood and tone.

Chapter 4 is the only chapter to focus on Mark Ukacierra. How is Mark different, or the same, from the other characters? What commentary on cultural traditions does Kadare make through Mark’s perspective?

Choose a character in Broken April. How does that character grow, or fail to grow, throughout the story? What message did you take from this character’s story?

Research another culture that maintains and practices ancient traditions, and then compare those practices with the Kanun. Does one culture function more harmoniously than the other? How so?

How do Diana and Gjorg suffer because of the situations they are born into? What message do you think Kadare is giving to readers through the fate of these characters?

What lesson does Bessian learn by the end of Broken April? Cite at least four direct quotes in your response.

Explain a theme you see in the novel. Then discuss how each character’s perspective allows Kadare to develop his commentary on that theme.