Law and order is a good thing, and not just on our television screens. That said, we're sure you'll forgive the Baudelaires if they don't end up appreciating the finer points of the law by the time The Bad Beginning is done. Throughout the book, the children are told that no one can help them out of their sad circumstances because it's against the law. Say what? Pro tip: If you find that yourself in the care of a terrible villain, it might be time to break a few rules. You know, for survival.
Questions About Rules and Order
- Justice Strauss represents the law, but also tries to help the children. In the end, which is more important to her—following the rules, or helping the Baudelaires? Give evidence to support your claim.
- Do you think The Marvelous Marriage would be considered legally binding in a real court? Why or why not? Here's a resource to get you started.
- Why does Violet need to outsmart Count Olaf using the law instead of breaking it?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Mr. Poe is a terrible executor because he's more concerned with following the letter of the law than doing what is in the best interest of the Baudelaire children.
The Bad Beginning exposes many of the absurdities in actual case law.