Midnight Sun

Even on the cover of Midnight Sun, the story of Hades and Persephone pervades the novel. Explain how Stephenie Meyer uses the Hades and Persephone myth within the novel. Is this myth a good or a bad model for Edward and Bella’s relationship?

Blood plays a significant role in Midnight Sun and often has symbolic importance. How does blood function as a symbol in the novel?

The Hades and Persephone myth is not the only myth or religious story prevalent in Midnight Sun. Pick one other myth or religious story and explain how it functions within the novel.

Edward is obsessed with the idea of evil and monsters. In what ways is Edward evil or a monster, and from whose perspective? Support your argument with specific examples from the text.

How does Edward define humanity or goodness? Despite his frequent refusal to identify himself with humanity or goodness, to what extent does he (or does he not) prove himself to be “human” or “good” by his own definitions?

What role does sleep or the absence of sleep play in the novel? What role do dreams play for Edward? What role do dreams play for Bella?

Many of the vampires in the novel have special abilities, including (but not limited to) Edward’s ability to hear thoughts and Alice’s ability to see futures. Pick one vampire and trace how their special ability furthers their characterization within the novel.

Love plays a vital role within Midnight Sun. In what ways is it a positive or negative force, or in what ways is it embraced or forbidden? Support your argument with specific examples from the text.