Oathbringer
104. Strength
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter begins with a reflection on Ashertmarn, one of the Unmade, emphasizing his influence on human decadence rather than prophecy or combat. His gift to humanity is a desire for indulgence, which historically contributed to the collapse of dynasties such as Bayala. This sets a tone of underlying chaos and the presence of powerful, mindless forces that shape the world’s history. The narrative then shifts focus to Navani Kholin, who is navigating the turbulent political landscape of Urithiru amid her husband’s decline. Her experience in maintaining stability is highlighted, as she balances her duties with the delicate political alliances and the precarious state of her kingdom.
Navani’s leadership is portrayed against the backdrop of Gavilar’s strange behavior and the growing uncertainty within the kingdom. Jasnah’s writings reflect the complexity of her family’s situation, revealing her scholarly mind and the broad scope of her interests. As Gavilar’s mental state deteriorates, Navani works with a loyal group, including the Bridge Four Windrunners, to keep the kingdom intact. Her role is increasingly critical, as her authority begins to extend beyond mere governance to encompass broader political and strategic decisions necessary to face impending crises.
The chapter then details a tense council meeting where Navani consults with the highprince and brightladies, emphasizing the fragile state of leadership and infrastructure. They discuss the challenges of maintaining the tower’s facilities, dwindling resources, and labor shortages, which threaten the stability of their society. The political tension is palpable, with concerns over the delayed proclamation of Dalinar as highking and the potential for rebellion or external threats. Navani’s efforts to conceal sensitive information underscore the fragile balance of power and the importance of strategic silence in times of crisis.
In the final section, Navani reflects on her husband’s true intentions, which are rooted in unity rather than domination. Despite the chaos and internal conflicts, her conviction is that Dalinar’s goal is to forge a stronger, united world. The chapter concludes with a sense of cautious hope, acknowledging the immense challenges ahead but reaffirming her belief in her husband’s leadership and the collective effort needed to preserve stability. The narrative underscores themes of resilience, political intrigue, and the complex interplay of power, love, and duty in a world teetering on the edge of chaos.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What is the significance of Ashertmarn, the Heart of the Revel, as described in the chapter, and how does his influence relate to historical events?
Answer:
Ashertmarn, the Heart of the Revel, is identified as the final of the three great mindless Unmade. Unlike other Unmade, his gift to humans is not prophecy or battle focus but a lust for indulgence. The chapter notes that his influence led to the great debauchery recorded from the court of Bayala in 480, which contributed to the dynastic collapse. This highlights Ashertmarn’s role in fostering decadence and chaos, illustrating how the Unmade can impact civilizations through their influence on human behavior, often resulting in significant societal upheaval.
2. Question 2
How does Navani Kholin’s role in the chapter exemplify leadership during a crisis, and what challenges does she face in maintaining stability?
Answer:
Navani demonstrates leadership by actively engaging with the political and military figures of Urithiru, working to keep the kingdom united amid internal and external threats. She navigates complex political dynamics, such as dealing with the loyalty of the Bridge Four Windrunners and addressing concerns about the highprince’s absence. Her challenges include managing the kingdom’s infrastructure issues, resource shortages, and the uncertainty surrounding Dalinar’s plans and health. Despite personal frustration and grief, she emphasizes order and unity, recognizing that stability depends on organized control and strategic patience, even when her emotions threaten to overwhelm her.
3. Question 3
What are the main infrastructural and resource challenges faced by the kingdom as described in the chapter, and what potential consequences could these have if not addressed?
Answer:
The chapter outlines several critical infrastructural and resource issues: clogged plumbing, exhausted Soulcasters dealing with waste, dwindling emerald reserves, water shortages, and a labor shortage for essential tasks like lumbering. These problems threaten the kingdom’s stability, as inadequate infrastructure hampers daily life and military readiness. If unaddressed, they could lead to a decline in morale, economic instability, and vulnerability to external threats, such as Thanadal’s growing power. These challenges underscore the importance of proper resource management and leadership in crisis.
4. Question 4
Analyze the political implications of Dalinar’s delayed official proclamation as highking and the potential impact on the kingdom’s unity.
Answer:
Dalinar’s delay in officially proclaiming himself highking creates uncertainty and questions about leadership legitimacy. Navani and her allies choose to act cautiously, suggesting that they should pretend not to know about the proclamation until Dalinar and his heirs return. This delay can weaken the perception of stability and authority, possibly inviting rival factions like Thanadal to seize opportunities for power. It also complicates political coordination, as different leaders are uncertain about the true state of Dalinar’s authority. The situation emphasizes the delicate balance needed to maintain unity during ambiguous leadership.
5. Question 5
What does Navani’s statement about Dalinar’s true goal—unity rather than dominion—reveal about her perspective on leadership and power?
Answer:
Navani’s assertion that Dalinar seeks unity, not dominion, reflects her belief in leadership rooted in shared purpose and stability rather than conquest or personal power. She views his goals as altruistic, aiming to consolidate and strengthen the kingdom for the collective good. This perspective highlights her understanding that true strength lies in unity and cooperation, and it contrasts with the fears or suspicions that might see Dalinar’s actions as driven by a desire for control. Her stance underscores a commitment to principled leadership and her hope that Dalinar’s intentions will foster lasting peace and stability.
Quotes
1. “Ashertmarn, the Heart of the Revel, is the final of the three great mindless Unmade. His gift to men is not prophecy or battle focus, but a lust for indulgence. Indeed, the great debauchery recorded from the court of Bayala in 480—which led to dynastic collapse—might be attributable to the influence of Ashertmarn.”
This quote highlights the nature of Ashertmarn as an Unmade whose influence fosters decadence rather than combat or prophecy, illustrating the destructive potential of unchecked indulgence on a societal level.
2. “Navani Kholin had some practice holding a kingdom together.”
This brief statement underscores Navani’s experience and skill in leadership, setting the stage for her role as a stabilizing force amid chaos and political turmoil.
3. “Damnation, Turinad! That’s enough!” Navani snapped. “That’s enough!”
This moment signifies Navani’s frustration with the disrespect and triviality she faces from her advisors, emphasizing her authority and the seriousness with which she approaches her responsibilities.
4. “Love wasn’t about being right or wrong, but about standing up and helping when your partner’s back was bowed. He would likely do the same for her someday.”
This reflection captures the chapter’s deeper theme of resilience and loyalty in relationships, even amidst personal pain and hardship, illustrating emotional strength beyond political power.
5. “My husband wants unity. Not dominion. You know as well as I do that we could have seized Thaylen City. That would have led to selfishness and loss. There is no path through conquest to peace.”
This statement articulates the core of Dalinar’s vision for leadership: unity without domination, emphasizing the chapter’s overarching message about the true meaning of strength and leadership.