How does Norris convey to his readers the smallness and vulnerability of his characters? Consider both the events of the novel and literary techniques like dialogue, imagery, and punctuation.

What role do Old Grannis and Miss Baker play in the novel? Does their story have a truly happy ending? How does it affect the novel’s message?

Discuss how Norris uses setting to convey his Naturalist messages. Consider San Francisco as well as Placer County. What is the significance of the fact that McTeague goes farther into the mountains the closer he is to his destiny? What does the rough landscape of Placer County represent?