8. How does Capote develop and reveal his attitude in the description of the prison on pages 309 and 310? First, Capote sets the idea of the Leavenworth Prison as more of an economic (therefore tactical) boon to the local economy. His prose tells the reader that the Penitentiary for men is almost medieval in nature (turreted black and white palace), but built in the Civil War (therefore outdated and brutal). He uses terms like "stony village," "twelve gray acres of cement streets," and "the Hole," to paint the institution as both archaic and inhumane. Death Row, however, "is reached by climbing a circular iron staircase," almost an ascent into heaven, but the "coffin-shaped edifice" again emphasizes Capote's disdain and cruelty of the prison -- never allowing an inkling of the idea that people who are placed...

What is the purpose and effect of the long discussion of the Andrews case near the end of the book? (310-317) Capote seems to be "shouting" that because inside Andrews "The Nicest Boy in Wolcott," was a second, "unsuspected personality, one with stunted emotions and a distorted mind through which cold thoughts flowed in cruel directions." The narrative again emphasizes good vs. evil -- the good boy planning on being the poisoner and inheriting the family's wealth. The Andrews case became a celebrated debate on insanity -- and Capote lets the reader know that he believes the Perry had similar issues, and that the State should've declared Smith "guilty by reason of insanity" and treated.
REFERENCES

Capote,…