Park Ridge Library Discussion Questions
GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING by Tracy Chevalier

  1. The theme of "seeing" is very important to the novel. Describe what Griet sees versus what Vermeer sees versus what Maria Thins sees.

  2. Although this book is factually accurate, is GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING a typical historical novel?

  3. What is the significance of the eight-pointed star at the center of the town square?

  4. What opportunities are available to a young Dutch woman in the 1660's? Is her life as a housewife inevitable?

  5. After reading the novel, has your perception of the Vermeer painting, GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING, changed?

  6. Describe Tanneke. Do you like her? Do your feelings toward her change as the novel progresses? Can you imagine a novel based on her painting, THE MILKMAID?

  7. Can young women today identify with Greit's struggle toward maturity and the hard choices she faces?

  8. Vermeer's friend, van Leeuwenhoek, says of Vermeer, "His eyes are worth a room full of gold. But sometimes he sees the world only as he wants it to be, not as it is. He does not understand the consequences of others of his point of view." Is this a true statement? Describe how Vermeer's failing to understand affects other characters, especially Catharina.

  9. What is the significance of Vermeer demanding that Griet pierce her ear…and then her other ear?

  10. Do you feel the sexual tension between Vermeer and Griet?

  11. What sort of man is Vermeer?

  12. What is the relationship between Griet and Maria Thins?

Questions created by Vivian Mortensen, Head of Reader Services at the Park Ridge Public Library.