Graham Greene’s “The Destructors”
Selected Vocabulary
broodingignobleincendiarysomberambiguityditheryPlot –
How diction contributes to characterization: As you read, jot down words and phrases that contribute
to our understanding of T’s character. How would you characterize T based on Greene’s use of diction?
How diction contributes to setting: As you read, jot down words and phrases that establish and
reinforce the setting. How would you describe the setting based on Greene’s use of diction?
How diction contributes to mood: As you read, jot down words and phrases that establish and
reinforce the mood. How would you describe the mood based on Greene’s use of diction?
Note the significance of laughter throughout. How is the characters’ laughter at certain points
significant to the mood and theme of the story?
Theme (see pg. 962, #7 )—
Note the use of slang throughout. How does Greene’s incorporation of slang contribute to the story?
See Language and Style on page 963 and consider the questions.
Questions to think about as you read:
1. What are your first impressions of the Wormsley Common gang?
2. What about Trevor impresses the gang?
3. In contrast to T.’s impressive demeanor, what elements of his background and person might
invite ridicule from the other boys?
4. What in the description of Old Misery connects him to Trevor?
5. What reasons do the boys propose for Mr. Thomas having given them candy? What does this
suggest about their general attitudes concerning adults?
6. What images does Greene use to describe Blackie’s view of the grounds and the exterior of the
house on p. 955? How do those images contrast with the sounds from inside the house?
7. Why do you think that, ironically, the gang is putting so much creative skill and organization into
this wanton and complete destruction of a beautiful, historical house?
8. We are told that Mike “sat happily…clipping the wires,” while Trevor “sat moodily…listening.”
What can you infer about their respective reactions to what is going on?
9. Why do you think Trevor chooses Old Misery’s money as the “something special” he wants to
destroy himself?
10. What do you think of Trevor’s speech about hate and love on p. 956?
11. Why is the paragraph beginning with “’Watch the back too.’ T. began to plead” (957) considered
a climax in the story?
12. What is the irony in Old Misery carefully scraping his shoes before entering the house?
13. Identify the irony of Mr. Thomas’s horoscope.
14. By Part 4, why is the gang no longer concerned with who the leader is?
15. Does the fact that the boys give Mr. Thomas a blanket and food make them seem more
humane? Why or why not?