Keyword Guide · study-guide

What Chapter Does Chigurh Kill Carla Jean?

Students often ask which chapter contains Carla Jean Moss’s death in No Country for Old Men. This guide gives a fast, reliable answer with context and study-ready analysis for quizzes and essays.

what chapter  does chigurh kill carla study illustration

Short Answer: The Chapter Number

Anton Chigurh kills Carla Jean Moss in Chapter 19 of No Country for Old Men in most standard editions. This is one of the final chapters of the novel, just before the closing reflections. Page numbers may vary by edition, but the chapter placement is consistent in commonly used classroom texts.

Where This Scene Fits in the Plot

Carla Jean’s death occurs after Llewelyn Moss has already been killed, underscoring the novel’s bleak view of violence and fate. Chigurh seeks her out to complete what he sees as an obligation, reinforcing his role as an unstoppable force rather than a conventional villain.

Why This Chapter Matters Thematically

This chapter highlights key themes such as fate versus free will, moral responsibility, and the randomness of violence. Carla Jean challenges Chigurh’s philosophy, which makes the scene especially important for class discussion about whether Chigurh truly believes in chance or simply uses it to justify cruelty.

How to Study This Scene for Exams

Focus on how the scene contrasts Carla Jean’s moral clarity with Chigurh’s rigid worldview. For essays, connect this chapter to the novel’s ending and Sheriff Bell’s reflections. For quizzes, remember the chapter number, who is involved, and why the encounter is significant to the novel’s message.

Is Carla Jean’s death in the last chapter?

No. Her death occurs in Chapter 19, which comes just before the final chapter focused on Sheriff Bell.

Do all editions list this as Chapter 19?

Most editions do, but page numbers can differ. Always check your table of contents to confirm.

Why is this scene important for essays?

It crystallizes the novel’s themes of fate, morality, and violence, making it a strong moment to analyze character and theme.

Continue in App

Study Smarter with Readi.AI

Need fast chapter answers, theme breakdowns, and essay help? Download Readi.AI on iOS to get clear literature study guides made for students.