Small-group discussion: Is Buddy Willard a hypocrite?

In chapter 6 of The Bell Jar, Esther tells the story of how she has “discovered” that Buddy Willard is “a hypocrite.” What does she mean by “hypocrite,” and what is her “case” against Buddy? Do you think that Esther is correct or fair in her allegations of hypocrisy? What do you make of the fact that the seniors at her college don’t seem to share her outrage (“most boys were like that” [71])?

Please take 7-10 minutes and discuss Esther's depiction of Buddy Willard and her assessment that he is a hypocrite in small groups. Every group member's notebook should include notes from this small-group discussion, and the full-class discussion that follows.