Book Byte March 2021

  A Woman of No Importance

What do you think the role of trailblazers in history should be? Do figures like Virginia have an obligation or duty toward those who come after them?

It's almost as if Hall had a sixth sense, which repeatedly kept her out of the Nazis' clutches. Talk about her use of disguises, her ability to build trust across borders, her sudden appearances and just as sudden disappearances. What are some of the close calls in which she escaped capture? Do some episodes stand out more than others—in terms as being more daring, more thrilling, or more anxiety-drenching?

During the war, Virginia was often a rebellious figure, known not only for her courage but often for her disregard of directives, accurately believing herself capable of playing a larger role than she was given. Still, in her personal life, rather than cause a possible family upset, she hid her continuing relationship with Paul from her mother for many years.

What did you think of her decision to do so? What does it tell us about the Virginia hidden behind all her many disguises and bravery?

Virginia was constantly overlooked or underestimated because of her gender--even after she had proven her worth in the field time and again. How do you think that affected her personality and her career trajectory?

Virginia and her compatriots all across France faced heavy losses during the war. Some were tortured to the point of death, others faced the firing squad, and still others suffered from injuries incurred in battle for the rest of their lives—including Virginia herself. 

Were these sacrifices worth it?