To which elements of 1960s British culture does the novel respond? Does the novel make a broad comparison between the 19th and 20th centuries, or does it reference specific historical and cultural events?

How does clothing play into the system of Victorian etiquette, and how is this represented in the way different characters dress? Are any items of clothing or personal belongings particularly symbolic?

Why does Sarah remain in Lyme Regis if her story about the French Lieutenant is a fabrication? Why does she consider her life there better than the alternatives? Use examples from the text to support your response.