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    Oathbringer

    by Sanderson, Brandon
    Oathbringer, the third book in Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive series, is an epic fantasy novel set on the planet Roshar. It follows Dalinar Kholin as he confronts his past, unravels ancient secrets, and strives to unite warring factions against existential threats. The story explores themes of leadership, memory, and redemption amid catastrophic conflicts and mystical revelations, advancing the series’ intricate world-building and character development.
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    Oathbringer

    64. Binder of Gods

    by Sanderson, Brandon

    The chap­ter opens with a poignant reflec­tion on the esca­lat­ing con­flict between the Sky­break­ers and the Win­drun­ners, empha­siz­ing the trag­ic con­se­quences of their dis­agree­ments. The nar­ra­tor urges lis­ten­ers to rec­og­nize the sim­i­lar­i­ties they share, under­scor­ing themes of under­stand­ing and uni­ty amid chaos. This sets a tone of intro­spec­tion and rec­on­cil­i­a­tion, hint­ing at deep­er divi­sions root­ed in mis­com­mu­ni­ca­tion and prej­u­dice. The mes­sage serves as a reminder that even those on oppos­ing sides are bound by com­mon human­i­ty, and that bridg­ing these divides is cru­cial for the greater good of Roshar.

    Dalinar’s dis­cov­ery of the Hon­or­blade hid­den with­in a dark stone shaft marks a sig­nif­i­cant moment. As he touch­es the ancient weapon, he expects a surge of pow­er or a spir­i­tu­al con­nec­tion but is met only with his own anger—reminding him of its dark his­to­ry as the assassin’s weapon and its role in ter­ror­iz­ing nations. He con­tem­plates the blade’s sig­nif­i­cance not just as a rel­ic but as a sym­bol of vio­lence and betray­al. The nar­ra­tive explores the com­plex lega­cy of these ancient Her­alds’ weapons, con­trast­ing their for­mi­da­ble his­to­ry with their cur­rent spir­i­tu­al and polit­i­cal impli­ca­tions.

    The dia­logue between Dali­nar and the Storm­fa­ther delves into the nature of the Her­alds and Dalinar’s own bur­geon­ing pow­ers. The Storm­fa­ther dis­miss­es some tra­di­tion­al names and iden­ti­ties, empha­siz­ing that the Her­alds’ true nature tran­scends human labels. Dalinar’s ques­tions about his abil­i­ties and the poten­tial for oth­ers like him reveal a uni­verse where divine pow­ers are awak­en­ing with­in cho­sen indi­vid­u­als. The Stormfather’s rev­e­la­tions about Dalinar’s unique con­nec­tion to the pow­er of Connection—more potent than that of oth­er Radiants—highlight the impor­tance of indi­vid­ual poten­tial and the lim­i­ta­tions of seek­ing pow­er for pet­ty or mar­tial pur­pos­es.

    In the final seg­ment, Dali­nar con­sid­ers the mechan­ics of the spir­i­tu­al realm and the renew­al of the Hon­or­blades through Storm­light. The Storm­fa­ther explains the con­cen­trat­ed nature of Honor’s pow­er and its man­i­fes­ta­tion across realms, demon­strat­ing the com­plex­i­ty of these ancient arti­facts. Dalinar’s deci­sion to reveal the Hon­or­blade to Bridge Four sym­bol­izes a strate­gic move to empow­er his men, offer­ing them a chance to gain Win­drun­ner abil­i­ties. This act under­scores themes of lead­er­ship, sac­ri­fice, and the impor­tance of shared strength in the face of ongo­ing con­flicts, empha­siz­ing that true pow­er lies in uni­ty and trust.

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    FAQs

    • 1. Question 1

      What is the significance of the Honorblade that Dalinar finds, and how does his perception of it evolve throughout the chapter?
      Answer:
      Initially, Dalinar perceives the Honorblade primarily as a weapon of the assassin who killed his brother, feeling only anger when he touches it. This indicates a view of the blade as a symbol of violence and death. However, as he examines it more closely, he recognizes its ancient craftsmanship and connection to Heralds, such as Jezerezeh’Elin, the Herald of Kings. His perception shifts from viewing it solely as a tool of murder to acknowledging it as a powerful relic with historical and symbolic significance. The Honorblade embodies not just death, but also the legacy of the Heralds and the potential power it grants—power that Dalinar is beginning to understand he can access.

      2. Question 2

      How does the Stormfather describe Dalinar’s powers, and what does this reveal about Dalinar’s potential as a Radiant?
      Answer:
      The Stormfather explains that Dalinar’s powers are among the greatest of all, specifically emphasizing his ability of Connection—joining men and worlds, minds, and souls. He states that Dalinar’s Surges are the greatest, but warns they are useless if wielded for petty purposes like battle. This reveals that Dalinar’s potential extends beyond simple combat, positioning him as a unique and powerful Radiant destined for profound influence. The Stormfather’s description underscores Dalinar’s role as a leader with the capacity for significant spiritual connection and unity, elevating his importance in the larger conflict.

      3. Question 3

      In what ways does the chapter explore the theme of knowledge and its timing, particularly through the interactions between Dalinar and the Stormfather?
      Answer:
      The chapter highlights the importance of timing in acquiring knowledge, especially concerning Dalinar’s powers. The Stormfather indicates that Dalinar’s powers will come when he is ready, not before, emphasizing patience and readiness over haste. Dalinar’s frustration at not being fully informed immediately is contrasted with the Stormfather’s calm reassurance that knowledge will come in due time. This interaction underscores a theme that understanding and power are gradual processes, and that premature attempts to access or force knowledge may be counterproductive. It also reflects the broader idea that wisdom and strength must be cultivated with patience and trust.

      4. Question 4

      What does the chapter suggest about the relationship between the ancient Heralds, the modern Radiants, and the concept of divine power?
      Answer:
      The chapter portrays the Heralds as ancient, powerful figures whose legacies still influence the present. Dalinar reflects on Jezerezeh’Elin and Ishi’Elin, acknowledging their roles and the mysteries surrounding them. The Stormfather dismisses some of these identities as foolish or mad, indicating that the true divine power of the Heralds is complex and possibly corrupted or misunderstood over time. Dalinar’s realization that he possesses the power of Connection—once held by a Herald of Kings—suggests a continuity of divine power, but also a divergence, as modern Radiants are learning to harness these ancient forces differently. The chapter explores the idea that divine power is both a legacy and a burden, with the potential to unite or destroy.

      5. Question 5

      How might Dalinar’s understanding of his powers influence his leadership and decisions moving forward?
      Answer:
      Dalinar’s recognition of his immense powers, especially the ability of Connection, positions him as a potentially transformative leader. Understanding that his Surges are the greatest and that his powers are tied to uniting and joining others suggests he has a unique role in rallying his allies and forging alliances. This knowledge may inspire confidence in him as a unifier, but also imposes responsibility, as misusing these powers could lead to catastrophe. His awareness of his potential encourages him to seek patience and wisdom, emphasizing that true strength lies in connection, understanding, and restraint rather than brute force. This insight will likely shape his decisions, guiding him toward leadership rooted in unity and purpose.

    Quotes

    • 1. “The disagreements between the Skybreakers and the Windrunners have grown to tragic levels. I plead with any who hear this to recognize you are not so different as you think.”

      This quote underscores the chapter’s theme of unity and the tragic consequences of division among the Knights Radiant. It highlights the importance of recognizing shared humanity despite external conflicts.

      2. “Yours is the power of Connection, of joining men and worlds, minds and souls. Your Surges are the greatest of all, though they will be impotent if you seek to wield them for mere battle.”

      This passage emphasizes the unique and profound nature of Dalinar’s powers as a Bondsmith, framing his role as one of connection rather than destruction. It encapsulates a core insight into the potential of true leadership and unity.

      3. “Honor’s power, during a storm, is concentrated in one place. It pierces all three realms and brings Physical, Cognitive, and Spiritual together momentarily in one. The gemstones, exposed to the wonder of the Spiritual Realm, are lit by the infinite power there.”

      This quote explains the nature of Stormlight and the significance of the gemstones, providing a foundational understanding of the spiritual mechanics that underpin the magic system in the story.

      4. “He expected to feel more upon touching it. Power? A tingling? This was a weapon of Heralds, a thing so ancient that common Shardblades were young by comparison. Yet, as he slipped it free and stood up, the only thing he felt was his own anger.”

      This passage reflects Dalinar’s complex relationship with ancient, powerful artifacts—seeing them as symbols of past violence and loss rather than mere weapons—highlighting the emotional and historical weight carried by such objects.

      5. “Your powers will come when you are ready for them, not before. They cannot be hurried or forced. But do not look toward the powers of others, even those who share your Surges. Their lot is not yours, and their powers are small, petty things.”

      This statement offers a profound lesson about patience and self-awareness, emphasizing that true power develops in its own time and that comparison can be misleading or destructive.

    Quotes

    1. “The disagreements between the Skybreakers and the Windrunners have grown to tragic levels. I plead with any who hear this to recognize you are not so different as you think.”

    This quote underscores the chapter’s theme of unity and the tragic consequences of division among the Knights Radiant. It highlights the importance of recognizing shared humanity despite external conflicts.

    2. “Yours is the power of Connection, of joining men and worlds, minds and souls. Your Surges are the greatest of all, though they will be impotent if you seek to wield them for mere battle.”

    This passage emphasizes the unique and profound nature of Dalinar’s powers as a Bondsmith, framing his role as one of connection rather than destruction. It encapsulates a core insight into the potential of true leadership and unity.

    3. “Honor’s power, during a storm, is concentrated in one place. It pierces all three realms and brings Physical, Cognitive, and Spiritual together momentarily in one. The gemstones, exposed to the wonder of the Spiritual Realm, are lit by the infinite power there.”

    This quote explains the nature of Stormlight and the significance of the gemstones, providing a foundational understanding of the spiritual mechanics that underpin the magic system in the story.

    4. “He expected to feel more upon touching it. Power? A tingling? This was a weapon of Heralds, a thing so ancient that common Shardblades were young by comparison. Yet, as he slipped it free and stood up, the only thing he felt was his own anger.”

    This passage reflects Dalinar’s complex relationship with ancient, powerful artifacts—seeing them as symbols of past violence and loss rather than mere weapons—highlighting the emotional and historical weight carried by such objects.

    5. “Your powers will come when you are ready for them, not before. They cannot be hurried or forced. But do not look toward the powers of others, even those who share your Surges. Their lot is not yours, and their powers are small, petty things.”

    This statement offers a profound lesson about patience and self-awareness, emphasizing that true power develops in its own time and that comparison can be misleading or destructive.

    FAQs

    1. Question 1

    What is the significance of the Honorblade that Dalinar finds, and how does his perception of it evolve throughout the chapter?
    Answer:
    Initially, Dalinar perceives the Honorblade primarily as a weapon of the assassin who killed his brother, feeling only anger when he touches it. This indicates a view of the blade as a symbol of violence and death. However, as he examines it more closely, he recognizes its ancient craftsmanship and connection to Heralds, such as Jezerezeh’Elin, the Herald of Kings. His perception shifts from viewing it solely as a tool of murder to acknowledging it as a powerful relic with historical and symbolic significance. The Honorblade embodies not just death, but also the legacy of the Heralds and the potential power it grants—power that Dalinar is beginning to understand he can access.

    2. Question 2

    How does the Stormfather describe Dalinar’s powers, and what does this reveal about Dalinar’s potential as a Radiant?
    Answer:
    The Stormfather explains that Dalinar’s powers are among the greatest of all, specifically emphasizing his ability of Connection—joining men and worlds, minds, and souls. He states that Dalinar’s Surges are the greatest, but warns they are useless if wielded for petty purposes like battle. This reveals that Dalinar’s potential extends beyond simple combat, positioning him as a unique and powerful Radiant destined for profound influence. The Stormfather’s description underscores Dalinar’s role as a leader with the capacity for significant spiritual connection and unity, elevating his importance in the larger conflict.

    3. Question 3

    In what ways does the chapter explore the theme of knowledge and its timing, particularly through the interactions between Dalinar and the Stormfather?
    Answer:
    The chapter highlights the importance of timing in acquiring knowledge, especially concerning Dalinar’s powers. The Stormfather indicates that Dalinar’s powers will come when he is ready, not before, emphasizing patience and readiness over haste. Dalinar’s frustration at not being fully informed immediately is contrasted with the Stormfather’s calm reassurance that knowledge will come in due time. This interaction underscores a theme that understanding and power are gradual processes, and that premature attempts to access or force knowledge may be counterproductive. It also reflects the broader idea that wisdom and strength must be cultivated with patience and trust.

    4. Question 4

    What does the chapter suggest about the relationship between the ancient Heralds, the modern Radiants, and the concept of divine power?
    Answer:
    The chapter portrays the Heralds as ancient, powerful figures whose legacies still influence the present. Dalinar reflects on Jezerezeh’Elin and Ishi’Elin, acknowledging their roles and the mysteries surrounding them. The Stormfather dismisses some of these identities as foolish or mad, indicating that the true divine power of the Heralds is complex and possibly corrupted or misunderstood over time. Dalinar’s realization that he possesses the power of Connection—once held by a Herald of Kings—suggests a continuity of divine power, but also a divergence, as modern Radiants are learning to harness these ancient forces differently. The chapter explores the idea that divine power is both a legacy and a burden, with the potential to unite or destroy.

    5. Question 5

    How might Dalinar’s understanding of his powers influence his leadership and decisions moving forward?
    Answer:
    Dalinar’s recognition of his immense powers, especially the ability of Connection, positions him as a potentially transformative leader. Understanding that his Surges are the greatest and that his powers are tied to uniting and joining others suggests he has a unique role in rallying his allies and forging alliances. This knowledge may inspire confidence in him as a unifier, but also imposes responsibility, as misusing these powers could lead to catastrophe. His awareness of his potential encourages him to seek patience and wisdom, emphasizing that true strength lies in connection, understanding, and restraint rather than brute force. This insight will likely shape his decisions, guiding him toward leadership rooted in unity and purpose.

    Note