Study Guide to Under the Volcano by Malcolm Lowry

A comprehensive study guide offering in-depth explanation, essay, and test prep for Malcolm Lowry’s Under the Volcano, ranked number 11 on the Modern Library’s list of the 100 best English-language novels of the twentieth century.


As a novel of the mid-twentieth century, Under the Volcano is an almost autobiographical tale of self-destruction inspired by Lowry’s real experiences. Moreover, the text is considered one of literature's most powerful and lyrical statements on the human condition, and a brilliant portrayal of one man's constant struggle against the elemental forces that threaten to destroy him. This Bright Notes Study Guide explores the context and history of Lowry’s classic work, helping students to thoroughly explore the reasons it has stood the literary test of time. Each Bright Notes Study Guide contains:


- Introductions to the Author and the Work

- Character Summaries

- Plot Guides

- Section and Chapter Overviews

- Test Essay and Study Q&As


The Bright Notes Study Guide series offers an in-depth tour of more than 275 classic works of literature, exploring characters, critical commentary, historical background, plots, and themes. This set of study guides encourages readers to dig deeper in their understanding by including

essay questions and answers as well as topics for further research.