Both Joe Clear and Dr. Grene tell stories at various points in the novel about witnessing the supernatural, particularly visions of angels. What is the role of the supernatural in the novel? How is it connected to Christian faith?

Early in the novel, Dr. Grene expresses his suspicion that Roseanne was not committed because of insanity but for social reasons. In conservative early-20th century Ireland, how might mental hospitals have been used, in concert with churches, to assert institutional control over women?

What are the similarities between Cissy’s silent retreat from her family and Bet’s withdrawal from her marital bed?