logo

124 pages 4 hours read

Thomas Harris

The Silence Of The Lambs

Thomas HarrisFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Chapters 19-25Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 19 Summary

Crawford recites Lecter’s psychiatric history, his work with criminal patients, as well as his work with the FBI. Crawford plans a strategy for Clarice’s questioning, which will play on Lecter’s desire for amusement. If they approach Lecter seeking theories rather than facts, they can move him to cooperate on a fixed deadline. They concoct a plan to offer Lecter new prison privileges in exchange for information that will save Catherine’s life. As they travel, Crawford speaks to many European agencies about identifying Klaus. Clarice looks to Crawford with awe at his dedication to the job. Unable to trust the news agencies or Chilton, Crawford warns Clarice to conceal new details about the case. Working behind the Senator’s back, Crawford finalizes details for the fake deal.

Chapter 20 Summary

Jame Gumb—the real name of Buffalo Bill—sings while showering in his upper-floor bathroom. Gumb once unsuccessfully took hormones to make his voice more feminine, but now alters his voice himself. He applies expensive cosmetics and tucks his penis between his legs to pose in the mirror. Gumb brings his dog, Precious, into the bedroom where he dresses and places an automatic rifle on his pillow. Downstairs, Gumb makes TV dinners for himself and the dog.

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text