1. Critically evaluate the main argument or arguments in the book. Does Wright?s basic argument about what Al Qaeda is, who Bin Laden and al-Zawahiri and other characters are and how Al Qaeda developed present a fair and accurate depiction? If no, explain why and what you believe is a more accurate depiction. Stay analytical and back up your points with evidence.
2. Use the book to outline a strategy for confronting Al Qaeda. Does the picture developed of Al Qaeda in the book suggest that the US should use a military approach, policing, diplomacy, cultural engagement? Something else? Use some specific ideas or examples to buttress your argument.
3. Tie the book to one or more of the topics we discuss in class. Does the story confirm or contradict what scholars have found regarding the relationship between poverty and terrorism, human rights abuses and terrorism, terrorist group organization and behavior, etc? Explain
4. Describe the relationship between Ayman al-Zawahiri. and Osama Bin Laden. Use examples from the book.What does Zawahiri offer to Bin Laden that Osama really needs.
5. Who is the "Martyr"? Explain why
6. Who is John O'Neill? Why is he relevant to the narrative of the book?
7. What does the title of the book refer to? Be specific.
8. Explain how Wright believes that SayyidQutb is an important figure in the history of AlQueda.
9. Discuss one thing that you learned about the Afghanistan and Al Queda link.
10. Discuss how Wright views Jihadism
11. Discuss the major ideological conflicts within Islam, per the book
12. Who is Ali Sufan and why are his ideas important for Wrights book
13. Of all of the characters in this book, who do you like AND dislike the most? Explain
14. Have your views of 9/11 changed after reading this book? Explain
15. What makes Lawrence Wright an expert in discussing this topic (You can use outside sources. Please cite)
16. If you had the opportunity to ask Osama Bin Laden one question, what would that question be? Explain why you chose that question.