Beyond That, the Sea

Throughout the book, the chapters that represent Bea’s perspective switch between the titles of “Beatrix” and “Bea.” What do these changes signify? What events prompt the shifts, and why? What central theme of the book does this reference?

William quotes Shakespeare to Rose on one occasion: “What’s past is prologue” (250). How does this hold true for the novel’s events and characters? What repeating patterns or instances of foreshadowing emerge in the story?

The novel refers to constant comparisons between Ethan and William, and between Nancy and Gerald, when the boys are younger. How true do these comparisons hold as the boys grow up? For Bea, what influences do each of her “four parents” have on her character?