What are Arthur and Poirot’s experiences of WWI, and how do they differ from the other characters’ experiences? Does the war play a part in the plot? Why or why not?

Why does the novel make readers distrust Alfred Inglethorp from the beginning? Does this make the revelation that he is the murderer more or less surprising? Why?

What are Arthur’s strengths and weaknesses as a narrator? Why does the novel feature a narrator with weak spots?

Literary Area of Study

British Literature

Social Issues

Class

Society

Emotions & Behavior

Guilt

Fiction

Horror, Thrillers, & Suspense

Immigrants & Refugees

Relationships

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Mystery & Crime

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YA Horror, Thrillers, & Suspense

YA Mystery & Crime

Agatha Christie

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Hercule Poirot

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Mysterious Affair at Styles and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.