Montreal Dickens Fellowship Study Questions: “Our Mutual Friend"
April 7, 2026
Book III Chapters 1-10
- How does Dickens portray Riah the Jew?
- Comment on the Wilfer’s marriage as a source of comic relief.
- What do you think about Mr. Boffin’s change of character? Why is he so interested in studying the lives of misers?
- What do you think about Mr. Venus’ character?
- A major theme in the book is money. Discuss Silas Wegg’s greed and his opinion of Mr. Boffin (“He’s grown too fond of money”).
- Is Betty Higden’s death a dignified one?
- Bella and Mr. Rokesmith appear to be drawn to one another. Comment on Dickens’ ability to write about romance.
- What do you think Mortimer Lightwood’s role is in the book?