Oathbringer
111. Eila Stele
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter begins with a reflection on the mythic significance of the Unmade, highlighting the number nine as an ominous and enemy-associated figure, contrasting with the eight known ones. This sets a tone of underlying mystery and danger that permeates the story. The narrative then shifts to Dalinar’s arrival in Thaylen City, where he encounters Meridas Amaram—a figure embodying military discipline and political complexity. Their interaction reveals tensions rooted in past deeds and current ambitions, as Amaram reports on the city’s reconstruction efforts and emphasizes the importance of rebuilding trust with the Thaylen people, even as underlying discord simmers beneath the surface.
Dalinar’s conversation with Amaram underscores political and military tensions in Roshar. Amaram’s pride in the city’s rebuilding efforts is palpable, but his remarks reveal lingering frustrations and a desire for recognition and authority. Dalinar, meanwhile, remains cautious, aware of Amaram’s ambitions and the delicate balance of alliances. The dialogue also hints at deeper conflicts, such as the strained relations between Kholin troops and the local populace, and the unspoken distrust surrounding Amaram’s past. Dalinar’s restraint in response to Amaram’s overtures emphasizes the ongoing struggle to maintain unity amid competing loyalties and the threat of internal discord.
The scene shifts to a more personal tone as Dalinar interacts with his men, who are eager to engage in minor acts of rebellion, like joking about stabbing Amaram. Dalinar’s leadership is exemplified through his discipline and camaraderie, as he prepares for an upcoming strategic meeting. His interactions with Jasnah, Navani, and Renarin show a moment of respite and reflection amid the chaos of war preparations. The narrative explores Dalinar’s leadership style, emphasizing his focus on punctuality, order, and the importance of unity. The scene also introduces the logistical challenges of war, as Dalinar’s group prepares to meet and strategize for the coming conflict.
The chapter concludes with a glimpse into the broader geopolitical landscape, as Thaylen merchants arrive, bringing news of economic instability and logistical difficulties. The collapse of banking and the withdrawal of merchants threaten the financial stability of the cities, complicating war efforts and resource management. Jasnah’s analysis highlights the fragile state of Roshar’s economy, emphasizing how political and economic instability could influence military strategies and alliances. Dalinar’s concern about the merchants’ departure underscores the interconnectedness of commerce and warfare, illustrating the broader challenges faced by the kingdoms in maintaining stability during a time of escalating conflict.
FAQs
1. What does the chapter reveal about Dalinar’s attitude toward Amaram’s performance in Thaylen City, and how does this reflect Dalinar’s leadership style?
Answer:
The chapter shows that Dalinar recognizes and appreciates Amaram’s efforts in rebuilding Thaylen City, stating, “The city looks far better,” and complimenting the work done. However, Dalinar maintains a cautious attitude toward Amaram’s motivations, emphasizing that “Follow your orders. That is how you’ll prove yourself to me.” This indicates Dalinar’s leadership style—focused on discipline, accountability, and ensuring subordinates act within the boundaries of their duties rather than seeking personal validation. He values results but remains wary of potential hidden agendas or unchecked ambition, as seen in his response to Amaram’s overtures and the lingering tension beneath the surface.2. How does the chapter depict the political and military landscape of Roshar, particularly in relation to the economic and strategic challenges faced by its cities?
Answer:
The chapter highlights a complex political and military landscape, with ongoing reconstruction efforts and economic instability. Dalinar observes that the Thaylen merchants are pulling out of cities, signaling a “quiet economic collapse,” which poses logistical challenges for local governments needing to finance troops. The mention of the Thaylen Gemstone Reserve and the difficulty in maintaining city defenses indicates strained resources and shifting alliances. Strategically, the focus on rebuilding Thaylen City and the presence of Oathgates suggest a reliance on rapid transportation for military and diplomatic purposes. The economic decline and the movement of wealth emphasize the fragile state of stability on Roshar, complicating warfare and governance.3. What significance does the chapter place on the Oathgate system, and how does its frequent use impact the narrative’s depiction of technological or magical infrastructure?
Answer:
The chapter underscores the importance of the Oathgate system as a critical infrastructure for transportation, diplomacy, and military logistics. Dalinar observes a flash surrounding the Oathgate, indicating its active use, and mentions that it’s “almost perpetual,” highlighting its central role in the current state of Roshar. The frequent use of the Oathgates signifies their reliability and strategic value, enabling rapid deployment of armies and officials across distant locations. This infrastructure blurs the line between magical and technological systems, emphasizing their vital role in maintaining stability and facilitating coordination in a fractured world. It also suggests an evolving reliance on these devices, making them a focal point in the chapter’s depiction of societal resilience.4. How do the interactions between Dalinar and other characters, such as Amaram and Jasnah, illustrate the themes of leadership, trust, and political diplomacy?
Answer:
Dalinar’s interactions reveal a nuanced approach to leadership—balancing authority with diplomacy. His cautious yet respectful exchange with Amaram shows he values competence but remains wary of underlying motives, reflecting themes of trust and suspicion. His firm reminder to Amaram to follow orders underscores his emphasis on discipline and accountability. Conversely, his interaction with Jasnah, where she offers to pull records and he remains curious, demonstrates openness to knowledge and strategic planning. These interactions highlight Dalinar’s role as a leader who seeks to build trust through careful oversight and values intelligence and diplomacy in navigating political complexities, reinforcing the overarching themes of leadership rooted in wisdom and vigilance.5. In what ways does the chapter hint at larger political or economic shifts occurring on Roshar, and what implications might these shifts have for the ongoing war effort?
Answer:
The chapter hints at significant political and economic shifts, such as the withdrawal of bankers from cities and the collapse of local economies, exemplified by the depleting reserves like the Thaylen Gemstone Reserve. These developments suggest a weakening of financial stability, which could hinder military logistics and supply chains. The mention that local governments will struggle to finance troops indicates potential vulnerability and a possible decline in military readiness. Such shifts could undermine the war effort by limiting resources, complicating troop deployment, and destabilizing alliances. These signs of economic decline foreshadow increased difficulties in sustaining prolonged conflict and may prompt strategic reevaluations for all involved parties on Roshar.
Quotes
1. “It will not take a careful reader to ascertain I have listed only eight of the Unmade here. Lore is confident there were nine, an unholy number, asymmetrical and often associated with the enemy.”
This quote highlights the significance of the Unmade in the mythos, emphasizing their mysterious and ominous nature. It sets the tone for the chapter’s exploration of lore and the deep-rooted fears surrounding these entities.
2. “Dalinar stepped out of the Oathgate control building into Thaylen City and was met by the man he most wanted to punch in all Roshar.”
This opening line introduces the central conflict with Amaram, framing their tense relationship and hinting at underlying political and personal tensions that drive the chapter’s narrative.
3. “Your work here was important, soldier. You didn’t only rebuild a city; you built the trust of the Thaylen people.”
This remark underscores the theme of reconstruction not just as physical rebuilding but as a means of restoring trust and political alliances, emphasizing the broader strategic importance of Dalinar’s efforts.
4. “The Thaylens are not our enemies.”
This statement challenges assumptions about enemies and allies, hinting at the complex diplomatic landscape on Roshar and suggesting that perceptions can be misleading in wartime.
5. “Storms, Dalinar! I’m your best frontline general, and you know it. Torol was a liability to this nation.”
This quote reveals Amaram’s ambition and desire for recognition, as well as his attempt to align himself with Dalinar’s reputation, illustrating the chapter’s themes of loyalty, reputation, and political maneuvering.
Quotes
1. “It will not take a careful reader to ascertain I have listed only eight of the Unmade here. Lore is confident there were nine, an unholy number, asymmetrical and often associated with the enemy.”
This quote highlights the significance of the Unmade in the mythos, emphasizing their mysterious and ominous nature. It sets the tone for the chapter’s exploration of lore and the deep-rooted fears surrounding these entities.
2. “Dalinar stepped out of the Oathgate control building into Thaylen City and was met by the man he most wanted to punch in all Roshar.”
This opening line introduces the central conflict with Amaram, framing their tense relationship and hinting at underlying political and personal tensions that drive the chapter’s narrative.
3. “Your work here was important, soldier. You didn’t only rebuild a city; you built the trust of the Thaylen people.”
This remark underscores the theme of reconstruction not just as physical rebuilding but as a means of restoring trust and political alliances, emphasizing the broader strategic importance of Dalinar’s efforts.
4. “The Thaylens are not our enemies.”
This statement challenges assumptions about enemies and allies, hinting at the complex diplomatic landscape on Roshar and suggesting that perceptions can be misleading in wartime.
5. “Storms, Dalinar! I’m your best frontline general, and you know it. Torol was a liability to this nation.”
This quote reveals Amaram’s ambition and desire for recognition, as well as his attempt to align himself with Dalinar’s reputation, illustrating the chapter’s themes of loyalty, reputation, and political maneuvering.
— Unknown
FAQs
1. What does the chapter reveal about Dalinar’s attitude toward Amaram’s performance in Thaylen City, and how does this reflect Dalinar’s leadership style?
Answer:
The chapter shows that Dalinar recognizes and appreciates Amaram’s efforts in rebuilding Thaylen City, stating, “The city looks far better,” and complimenting the work done. However, Dalinar maintains a cautious attitude toward Amaram’s motivations, emphasizing that “Follow your orders. That is how you’ll prove yourself to me.” This indicates Dalinar’s leadership style—focused on discipline, accountability, and ensuring subordinates act within the boundaries of their duties rather than seeking personal validation. He values results but remains wary of potential hidden agendas or unchecked ambition, as seen in his response to Amaram’s overtures and the lingering tension beneath the surface.
2. How does the chapter depict the political and military landscape of Roshar, particularly in relation to the economic and strategic challenges faced by its cities?
Answer:
The chapter highlights a complex political and military landscape, with ongoing reconstruction efforts and economic instability. Dalinar observes that the Thaylen merchants are pulling out of cities, signaling a “quiet economic collapse,” which poses logistical challenges for local governments needing to finance troops. The mention of the Thaylen Gemstone Reserve and the difficulty in maintaining city defenses indicates strained resources and shifting alliances. Strategically, the focus on rebuilding Thaylen City and the presence of Oathgates suggest a reliance on rapid transportation for military and diplomatic purposes. The economic decline and the movement of wealth emphasize the fragile state of stability on Roshar, complicating warfare and governance.
3. What significance does the chapter place on the Oathgate system, and how does its frequent use impact the narrative’s depiction of technological or magical infrastructure?
Answer:
The chapter underscores the importance of the Oathgate system as a critical infrastructure for transportation, diplomacy, and military logistics. Dalinar observes a flash surrounding the Oathgate, indicating its active use, and mentions that it’s “almost perpetual,” highlighting its central role in the current state of Roshar. The frequent use of the Oathgates signifies their reliability and strategic value, enabling rapid deployment of armies and officials across distant locations. This infrastructure blurs the line between magical and technological systems, emphasizing their vital role in maintaining stability and facilitating coordination in a fractured world. It also suggests an evolving reliance on these devices, making them a focal point in the chapter’s depiction of societal resilience.
4. How do the interactions between Dalinar and other characters, such as Amaram and Jasnah, illustrate the themes of leadership, trust, and political diplomacy?
Answer:
Dalinar’s interactions reveal a nuanced approach to leadership—balancing authority with diplomacy. His cautious yet respectful exchange with Amaram shows he values competence but remains wary of underlying motives, reflecting themes of trust and suspicion. His firm reminder to Amaram to follow orders underscores his emphasis on discipline and accountability. Conversely, his interaction with Jasnah, where she offers to pull records and he remains curious, demonstrates openness to knowledge and strategic planning. These interactions highlight Dalinar’s role as a leader who seeks to build trust through careful oversight and values intelligence and diplomacy in navigating political complexities, reinforcing the overarching themes of leadership rooted in wisdom and vigilance.
5. In what ways does the chapter hint at larger political or economic shifts occurring on Roshar, and what implications might these shifts have for the ongoing war effort?
Answer:
The chapter hints at significant political and economic shifts, such as the withdrawal of bankers from cities and the collapse of local economies, exemplified by the depleting reserves like the Thaylen Gemstone Reserve. These developments suggest a weakening of financial stability, which could hinder military logistics and supply chains. The mention that local governments will struggle to finance troops indicates potential vulnerability and a possible decline in military readiness. Such shifts could undermine the war effort by limiting resources, complicating troop deployment, and destabilizing alliances. These signs of economic decline foreshadow increased difficulties in sustaining prolonged conflict and may prompt strategic reevaluations for all involved parties on Roshar.
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