The Thirty Nine Steps

Consider the antisemitic comments made by some of the characters as well as the context in which they are presented and the responses of other characters. Does Buchan seem to be confirming or refuting one viewpoint on race? How do these comments shape the themes of the novel?

To what extent is the audience expected to believe that Hannay is, in fact, an “ordinary man”? Is he ordinary enough to be truly relatable or too good to be quite believable? Consider both the limitations he struggles with and the skills he possesses.

The novel was published in 1915, in the early years of WWI. In what ways does it reflect or express British attitudes at the time? Do its themes and preoccupations appear differently today, when the course and outcome of the war are known?