Discuss the novel’s use of vagaries, deceptions, and misdirection in language and perspective to play with the reader’s assumptions, especially in the Florence and Venice sections. Did it detract from opportunities to connect with the characters emotionally in any way?

Consider Inferno’s depiction of the “misunderstood genius.” Are Zobrist and/or Sienna more responsible for these misunderstandings than they each claim, and why?

Discuss the provost’s hardline stance on moral neutrality at the beginning of the novel. Are there any redeemable qualities in his philosophy? Were there any warning signs of the flaws in his approach that the provost should have taken better care to notice?