1. Why did the author chose to narrate this story through the voice of a defrocked nun? What does this have to do with the historical context of the novel?

2. Discuss the relationship between religion and politics in the 16th century. Are there any contemporary examples of parallel power struggles?

3. Discuss the nature of feminine power in the novel. How is it related to the characters’ beauty and sexuality, and how does this interplay affect the personal and political lives?

4. Discuss the symbolism of the unicorn. In how many ways is it related to the concept of virginity, and Elizabeth’s in particular? What is the significance of the title?

5. Discuss the perils that faced the characters in this novel. What is the relationship between their spiritual and earthly concerns?

6. What is the purpose of having the prologue follow the body of the text? What ramifications does this have for the plot of the novel?

7. Who is the real Elizabeth and why is this important?

8. How would you answer the question at the end of the book, “Now judge if you would have done different?” (p. 363)