The Martian

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011

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Before You Read

Summary

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Chapters 6-10

Chapters 11-14

Chapters 15-18

Chapters 19-22

Chapters 23-26

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Why do you think that Weir tells the story of The Martian primarily through the mission logs created by the protagonist, Watney? What is the effect on the reader?

How does Weir use dramatic irony to create and maintain tension in The Martian?

Analyze the use of humor in The Martian. How does it further the meaning of the text? What does it contribute to the reader’s understanding of Watney’s character?