1. by Robin Jenkins (Revision Notes)
The Cone Gatherers by
Robin Jenkins
(Revision Notes)

2. Quotes might be useful as well!
Important themes
Conflict
Good versus Evil (innocence and corruption)
Class
Nature
Religion
In your pairs, jot down examples that you could use to explore each of these themes.
Quotes might be useful as well!

3. Symbolism to represent something abstract with something concrete or to invest greater meaning in what something represents.
What does the wood symbolise? Explain.
Duror and Calum – symbols of what?
Roderick could also be perceived as a symbol. Discuss.
Warship in opening chapter.
Are there any other examples of symbolism that spring to mind?

4. Are there any other scenes that are really important to the outcome?
Key scenes
The deer drive is VERY important. This is the point of no return and where Duror’s madness is exposed to every one. His plans to rid the estate of Calum reach its head.
The beach hut is another key scene. Here the theme of social injustice is highlighted. Lady Runcie Campbell disregards her Christian conscience and casts the cone gatherers into the storm. The weather itself foreshadows the ‘storm’ brewing on the estate. The doll Calum finds in the hut symbolises his innocence and also reminds us of Duror’s accusations.
Are there any other scenes that are really important to the outcome?