Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption

Andy’s trial, as recounted by Red, is a media spectacle. What is the larger message that King is imparting about the criminal justice system and authority?

Red anticipates the reader’s doubt frequently in the novella. What methods does he use to build trust? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

The novella examines institutional injustice and the lack of mercy shown to prisoners. In what ways do the guards and warden perpetuate abuse? What larger statement is King making about society?

Early in the story, Red questions what rehabilitation is. What does this say about his character?

How does Red characterize Andy? How does their relationship transform Red?

How might the novel read differently if it were written in the third person, or via Andy’s first-person perspective? What would the narrative gain and lose? How would a different POV convey the work’s themes and characterization differently, or change the pacing?

What is King’s message about hope, redemption, and freedom? Consider Red’s and other inmates’ experiences once they are paroled from Shawshank.

The novella examines the tension between free will and determinism. Does the story favor one over the other? Cite examples from the text to support your argument.