Fall Of Giants

Comment on the symbolism of Grigori being addressed as “excellency” and attending glamorous restaurants and the opera. Does Follett suggest the Bolshevik Revolution achieved its original objectives?

Maud ominously reflects that “the degradation to which you subject others comes back, sooner or later, to haunt you” (929). In what ways does Follett suggest the Treaty of Versailles laid the groundwork for World War II?

Contrast Fitz’s traditional, aristocratic values with Ethel and Billy’s passion for working-class rights. How did their respective upbringings contribute to their political outlooks?

Contrast the hanging of Grigori and Lev’s father with Prince Andrei’s murder of a villager 30 years later. What did the respective reactions of the villagers tell readers about how Russia changed during the intervening years?

Follett suggests that each country’s entry into the war was far more complex than aggressive militarism and greed. After learning about the causes of the war, do you believe that Germany being forced to sign the “Guilt Clause” was just or unjust?

Do you agree that Woodrow Wilson’s “hand was forced” in terms of America entering the war?

Contrast Ethel’s feelings for Fitz with her feelings for Bernie. Why does she ultimately choose marriage to Bernie over a life of comfort with Fitz?

What character traits make Grigori an effective and respected leader?