Discuss the differences in the methods Dr. and Mrs. Montague use to study the paranormal. Which approach, if any, do you believe is most successful? Why?

Do you believe Eleanor was justified in feeling resentful towards the others for treating her like a hysterical female? Or do you believe the others in the party saw something in Eleanor that alarmed them?  What were some examples from the story that would justify your belief?

Did Eleanor intentionally let her mother die, or is she merely suffering from bereavement and a mistaken feeling guilt? What examples from the story support your theory?

Why does Mrs. Montague believe that a loving attitude is more effective in a haunted house than a fearful one? Would it have changed anything if Eleanor had shared her belief? Why or why not?

What changes in behavior or speech occur in Luke's character after spending time in Hill House? What do they signify?

Eleanor's mother, out of her own paranoia and jealousy, blamed supposedly jealous neighbors for the rain of stones phenomenon. To what extent does Eleanor mirror her mother's jealousy and paranoia? How does this become Eleanor's fatal flaw?

Describe the source of the conflict between Theo and Eleanor. What examples support the theory that the house is responsible for the growing enmity between the women. Alternatively, support the position that their enmity is a natural result of Theo and Eleanor's character flaws, again using examples from the story.