The murder of Roger Ackroyd- criminal/immoral behaviour

Question 1

Focus?

Answer 1

not one singular crime but individual immorality (discovered under the disguise of one crime).

Question 2

Why is this the focus?

Answer 2

Middle class arrogance eager to have their secrets kept hidden.

Question 3

Example?

Answer 3

Ralph engaged to Flora but married to significantly socially inferior Ursula.

Question 4

Another example?

Answer 4

Few of Ackroyd’s residents show much sorrow towards his death, but more concerned for their benefits from his will.

Question 5

Is the victim wholly moral?

Answer 5

No, an example is Ackroyd showing minimal sympathy towards Mrs Ferras’ confession.

Question 6

Biggest immorality?

Answer 6

Dr Sheppard betraying his friend Ackroyd’s trust through murder.

Question 7

Why is Sheppard’s immorality so significant?

Answer 7

His profession as a doctor affords him moral status, able to be used as a façade. At the time local doctors were family friends and intimate with villagers.
Makes his crimes more shocking and heinous.