John Grady is renowned for his close affinity with horses. What does his ability to communicate with horses say about his character? How does this contrast with how he communicates with people?

Why is the friendship between John Grady and Billy so strong? What is the friendship built upon?

To what extent is John Grady doomed to his fate? Can he be considered a tragic hero?

Literary Area of Study

American Literature

Middle School

Books that Teach Empathy

Values & Ideas

Fate

Emotions & Behavior

Memory

Life & Time

Mortality & Death

Social Issues

Sexual Harassment & Violence

Genres

Westerns

Cormac McCarthy

Adult

Novel

The Border Trilogy

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Cities of the Plain reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Cities of the Plain

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Overview

Get ready to explore Cities of the Plain and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Cities of the Plain Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 1 Cities of the Plain Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2 Cities of the Plain Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3 Cities of the Plain Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4 Cities of the Plain Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Epilogue

Cities of the Plain Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Cities of the Plain Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Cities of the Plain Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Cities of the Plain Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Cities of the Plain Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Cities of the Plain Essay Topics

Cities of the Plain

Essay Topics

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