Oathbringer
38. Broken People
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter opens with a reflection on human limitations and the notion that even skilled individuals are vulnerable. A quote underscores this theme, suggesting that true potential is often hindered by personal choices. Dalinar, the protagonist, finds himself immersed in a vision, which initially he perceives as a nightmare but later seeks to understand more deeply. The narrative then shifts to a vivid depiction of his past, where he is transported to a brutal battlefield setting. Here, Dalinar is dressed in primitive clothing, fighting alongside ragged soldiers against a seemingly insurmountable enemy force, emphasizing themes of struggle, resilience, and the relentless nature of war.
The detailed combat sequence reveals Dalinar’s strategic and physical challenges. Armed with a spear and a pouch of gemstones, he confronts enemies with ferocity, showcasing his combat skills. However, the chaos of battle quickly exposes his vulnerabilities—his allies do not support him, and the enemies fight with unyielding brutality. During the fight, Dalinar sustains a severe injury, losing his forearm in a sudden, brutal blow. This moment is pivotal, forcing him to confront his mortality and the harsh realities of battle, while also highlighting his determination to survive despite overwhelming odds.
The narrative then explores Dalinar’s internal struggle and his connection with the Stormfather, a divine figure. Despite the pain and the loss, Dalinar contemplates healing himself with Stormlight, but he resists, feeling it would be cheating since he has not made an oath to do so. His resilience is rooted in a sense of purpose—he believes his enemies made a mistake by turning their backs on him, and this fuels his resolve. His decision to continue fighting, even with a missing arm, underscores a core theme of perseverance and defiance against despair.
In the final moments, Dalinar’s leadership shines through as he urges his battered squad to retreat down the cliff to avoid annihilation. He demonstrates tactical awareness by directing them to safety, even risking his own life in the process. As they descend, the scene emphasizes the bleakness of their situation—their bloodied, exhausted state contrasted with the ominous presence of their enemies and a monstrous figure observing from above. Dalinar’s declaration that they will win the war, despite the apparent hopelessness, encapsulates the chapter’s overarching message of hope, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit amid chaos and destruction.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of Dalinar’s vision during the battle, and how does it reflect his understanding of his past and present struggles?
Answer:
Dalinar’s vision is a pivotal moment that blends his past experiences with his current challenges. In the vision, he relives a brutal battle where he fights alongside ragged soldiers and faces overwhelming odds, culminating in the loss of his arm. This vision symbolizes his internal conflict—his memories of past failures and the realization of his mortality. It also highlights his attempt to decipher the lessons of his past, such as the importance of support and strategy, rather than relying solely on ferocity. The vision’s vivid imagery and Dalinar’s reactions reveal his struggle to reconcile his identity as a warrior with his evolving understanding of leadership, humility, and mortality. It underscores the chapter’s themes of reflection, growth, and the enduring impact of past trauma on present decisions.2. How does Dalinar’s interaction with the Stormfather and his consideration of healing himself illustrate his internal moral conflict regarding his use of Stormlight?
Answer:
Dalinar’s conversation with the Stormfather and his hesitation to heal himself demonstrate a moral dilemma rooted in discipline and integrity. Although he possesses Stormlight, which could easily heal his severed arm, Dalinar considers it “cheating,” revealing his internal struggle with the temptation to use power for personal gain. The Stormfather’s reminder that he made no oath to refrain from healing emphasizes the importance of moral boundaries and self-control. Dalinar’s decision to refrain from healing reflects his desire to uphold principles of honor and discipline, even in moments of vulnerability. This internal conflict underscores a recurring theme in the chapter: the tension between power and morality, and Dalinar’s ongoing effort to lead with integrity rather than by exploiting supernatural abilities.3. What does the chapter suggest about Dalinar’s perception of leadership and heroism, especially in the context of his injuries and the battle scene?
Answer:
Dalinar’s perception of leadership is deeply rooted in sacrifice, resilience, and strategic thinking. Despite his severe injury—losing his arm—and the chaos of battle, he continues to prioritize the safety of his men, instructing them to retreat and find a safer position. His actions reflect a leadership style that values the well-being of others over personal glory. The scene where he slides down the incline to help his comrades and his declaration that “we win this war” reveal his belief that true heroism involves perseverance, humility, and a sense of collective victory. Dalinar’s injuries serve as symbols of the costs of leadership, yet his unwavering resolve underscores his conviction that genuine heroism is about enduring hardship and guiding others through adversity, rather than seeking personal accolades.4. How does the chapter explore the theme of mortality and the human limitations of even the most formidable warriors?
Answer:
The chapter vividly depicts the vulnerability of even the strongest warriors through Dalinar’s vision of losing his arm and facing death on the battlefield. His disbelief and acceptance of mortality—exemplified by the humbling realization that “they turned their backs on me”—highlight the universal human limitations that no amount of skill or ferocity can entirely overcome. Dalinar’s internal dialogue and the surreal nature of the vision emphasize the transient nature of strength and the inevitability of death. The chapter suggests that true leadership and heroism involve acknowledging these limitations, accepting mortality, and maintaining resolve despite the fears and realities of human fragility. This exploration encourages reflection on humility and the acceptance of mortality as integral to human experience.5. In what ways does the chapter use symbolism—such as Dalinar’s missing arm, the wild men, and the creature with crimson eyes—to deepen the narrative’s themes?
Answer:
The symbolism in the chapter enhances its themes of vulnerability, confrontation with inner demons, and the nature of true strength. Dalinar’s missing arm symbolizes the cost of battle and the physical and emotional scars of leadership, serving as a reminder of mortality and sacrifice. The wild men, who remain unmoved and relentless, symbolize the primal, unyielding forces of nature and conflict that challenge Dalinar’s notions of control and victory. The creature with crimson eyes, towering and fearsome, represents the monstrous aspects of inner fears or external threats that loom beyond human comprehension. Together, these symbols deepen the narrative’s exploration of resilience, humility, and the acceptance of one’s limitations. They also evoke a sense of ongoing struggle—both internal and external—that defines Dalinar’s journey toward understanding himself and his role as a leader.
Quotes
1. “Your skills are admirable, but you are merely a man. You had your chance to be more, and refused it.”
This quote underscores the chapter’s exploration of human limitations and the tragic potential of rejecting greater power or responsibility. It sets a tone of humility and reflection on missed opportunities for transcendence.
2. “Storms. This blow had gone clean through. He reminded himself that this wasn’t his actual flesh exposed to the air. That it wasn’t his own bone there, like the center ring of a hunk of pork.”
This vivid description highlights the surreal and brutal reality of battle, illustrating Dalinar’s confrontation with mortality and the disconnection between vision and reality. It emphasizes the chapter’s themes of pain, mortality, and the desire for healing.
3. “They turned their backs on me.”
Dalinar’s declaration reveals a core moment of defiance and realization, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and the consequences of abandonment. It encapsulates his resolve to fight not just enemies, but the betrayal he perceives within himself and others.
4. “We win this war… the war itself is being won.”
This statement reflects a moment of hope and strategic perspective, suggesting that despite individual losses, the larger conflict is progressing toward victory. It captures the chapter’s overarching message of resilience and the importance of believing in the bigger picture.
5. “Storms, they’d never survive up above. Storms! The man Dalinar had saved slumped down. ‘Storms! They’re dead. Everyone’s dead.’”
This quote conveys the grim reality of loss and the devastating toll of battle, emphasizing the chapter’s exploration of mortality, sacrifice, and the fleeting nature of victory amidst chaos.