Ernest Hemingway's "The Snows of Kilimanjaro"

Discussion Points

1.) The main male character, Harry. Related to this, critics often discuss the “Hemingway code,” rules that “men” should live by. Based on Harry’s views, what are some parts of the “code”?

2.) The main female character, Helen. Related to this, Hemingway is often criticized for his portrayals of women. Is this criticism justified?

3.) The significance or symbolism of recurring references to “snow.”

4.) The significance or symbolism or role(s) of animals in this story.

5.) The significance of Harry’s career or “talent” as a writer, or, the things he wishes he had written about. How is this a story about writing?

6.) How do you explain the italicized passages?

7.) How do you explain and/or interpret the ending of this story?

8.) How would you describe Hemingway’s “style”?  In addition, how would you describe Hemingway’s use of dialogue in this story?

9.) Compare Hemingway’s “style” to other writers, such as Cather, Hurston, Wright, Faulkner, Fitzgerald, and Wright.

10.) Other?