Consider the novel’s origin as a set of serialized stories. Are there more strengths or weaknesses in the novel because of its original published form? How is this serialization still evident in the novel’s structure?

An epistolary novel, one told in a series of written entries such as letters or journals, limits the point of view to the character writing the entries. How do the authors of The Diary of a Nobody convey their major themes despite this limitation? What strengths of the epistolary novel do the authors use to their advantage?

Compare and contrast the two women who are Pooter’s contemporaries, Carrie and Mrs. James, to those who are Lupin’s contemporaries, Daisy Mutlar and Lillie Posh. What conclusion might the Grossmiths be drawing through these characters about the evolving role of women in Victorian society?