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Biography
Truman Capote: The Tiny Terror
The diminutive Truman Capote is one of the literary giants of the twentieth century, but he is even more famous for his public persona. Capote's classics, such as Breakfast at Tiffany's and In Cold Blood became huge bestsellers and motion pictures. Capote's wit and flamboyance made him the darling of the jet set, particularly women of wealth and position. But Capote public airing of their secrets made him a social pariah in his later years. Truman Capote: The Tiny Terror would be useful for classes on American History, American Culture, and American Literature. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.
Vocabulary
Discussion Questions
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Truman Capote was one of the most famous American men of the second half of the 20th century. Why was he so famous? What made him so popular?
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What other literary greats have dominated the 20th century?
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Capote's parents were mismatched from the beginning of their marriage. How did his childhood affect him?
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Capote, like many other geniuses, did poorly in school. How did his academic performance belie his talent?
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Capote was always very comfortable with his homosexuality, but many others were not. What problems did Capote face because of other people's discomfort with his sexuality?
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How did Capote finally become a professional writer?
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Capote was a social butterfly who counted some of the richest and most socially prominent people among his friends. Why did so many people want to be with him and be his friend?
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Capote's most successful novel, In Cold Blood, is a true-crime story. What is a true-crime story? How does it differ from a novel or a detective story?
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Discuss how Capote was a victim of his own success.
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How and why did Capote betray his friends?
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Why did people call Capote the "Tiny Terror?"
Extended Activities
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Read one of Capote's books or short stories and discuss his work. You might want to compare one of his works to the movie version.
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