And Then Their Were None Study Guide

And Then There Were None - Study Guide Notes

Page 1 Summary

• Plot Elements

  • Introduction of the characters and their fates through a nursery rhyme structure.

  • Character mentions include Anthony Marston who is depicted as careless and reckless, driving which leads to someone’s death.

  • The opening scene references a gramophone used to call out the characters' crimes and foreshadow their demise.

  • Lucy John Combes is mentioned as a casualty due to Marston’s driving.

  • Mrs. Rogers' role is introduced along with the line from the nursery rhyme ("Nine little soldier boys sat up very late..."), indicating a gradual decrease in characters.

  • General Macarthur is noted to have suicidal thoughts due to guilt, emphasizing his isolation ("...said he'd stay there... then there were seven").

  • Mr. Rogers, the butler, is introduced, adding detail about the caretakers of the island.

  • A reference to one character chopping himself in half, increasing the ominous tone.

  • Significance of numbers dwindling as one character dies at a time, paralleling the nursery rhyme format.

Page 2 Summary

• Character Developments

  • Continuation of the nursery rhyme structure as numbers decrease.

  • Reference to Blore and his inevitable fate, hinting at a big bear hug showing perhaps an embracing of death or fate.

  • Mention of characters Philip Lombard and Vera Claythorne, two key figures in the mystery, highlighting their roles as survivors.

  • Vera is shown to have connections with past events adding depth to her character, with her backstory creating vulnerability.

  • Introduction of Isaac Morris, who bought the island and facilitated the vacation house setup but died due to drug-related issues tied to suicide, emphasizing themes of manipulation and guilt.

Themes and Motifs

• Diminishing Numbers

  • The rhyme motif emphasizes the claustrophobia and panic as characters are killed by an unseen force.

  • Each character's death correlates with their sins or past misdeeds, showcasing the theme of justice.

• Isolation and Guilt

  • Characters are isolated on the island and forced to confront their pasts which leads to paranoia and fear.

  • Guilt is a recurring theme, particularly with General Macarthur and his actions in the war.