The History of Love

Describe the role of memory in the novel. How do memories affect the characters’ lives? What do they try to hold on to or let go of?

Many different languages are spoken in The History of Love, and the title text is translated several times. What is the significance of translation in the novel and how do these different languages affect the characters and their attempts to communicate?

Leo Gursky and Charlotte Singer have both lost the loves of their lives and have a great affinity for language and literature. Compare these two characters. How does each cope with their loss? What role do reading and writing play for each character?