In the Heat of the Night

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1965

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Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read Beta

Summary

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Chapters 4-7

Chapters 8-10

Chapters 11-12

Chapters 13-14

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

How does Sam Wood change in the novel? Describe the transformations in his relationships with Virgil, Bill, and Duena.

What techniques does Ball use to set up plausible suspects to misdirect the reader?

What characteristics and behaviors does Virgil Tibbs exhibit that surprise the Southern city of Wells? How does the town respond, and what commentary is Ball making about racism through their responses?