Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors

Please find the discussion questions for our September 2023 pick, Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors below! I’d love to hear what you thought of the book.

• You can the ongoing book club discussions in the Facebook group here.
• You can order your copy of the book here or you can buy all three of our quarter 2 book club picks (at a discounted rate!) here.

QUESTION 1

The main characters of the book are Cleo and Frank, and Cleopatra and Frankenstein are not their real names. So why is the book called Cleopatra and Frankenstein?

QUESTION 2

Each chapter of Cleopatra and Frankenstein is told from a different character’s point of view. How does the changing perspective affect how we read the book? Did you have a favourite character?

QUESTION 3

The novel is filled with descriptions of lavish parties and hedonistic behavior. How do these descriptions change as the novel progresses?

QUESTION 4

Cleo is presented in the novel as admired but lonely. What contributes to her loneliness?

QUESTION 5

Is Frank a supportive partner to Cleo? Why or why not?

QUESTION 6

The chapters from Eleanor’s point of view are the only ones written in both the first person and fragments. How does this affect how we see her character?

QUESTION 7

Cleo and Frank keep some big secrets from each other. How do these secrets affect their relationship?

QUESTION 8

As the novel progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that Cleo is depressed. How does she cope with her mental illness? How does Frank? Are these coping mechanisms effective?

QUESTION 9

Near the end of the novel, Frank gets sober. How is alcoholism presented in the novel? What finally pushes Frank toward sobriety? 

QUESTION 10

In the final chapter, Frank visits Cleo in Italy. Describe what happens. How does this ending make us feel? Is it a good ending?