Oathbringer
113. The Thing Men Do Best
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter opens with a reflection on the mysterious nature of the Unmade, particularly questioning if Dai-Gonarthis is truly the ninth and whether their actions could have led to the destruction of Aimia. This sets a tone of uncertainty and investigation into ancient forces and their influence on current events. The narrative then shifts to Dalinar, who is depicted standing alone, contemplating the distant land of Shinovar and grappling with the distrust among the monarchs. His internal conflict revolves around his perceived deception and the complex political dynamics that threaten to undermine his authority and the fragile coalition forming around him.
Dalinar’s introspection deepens as he considers the origins of the humans on Roshar, pondering whether they came from Shinovar and the implications of their migration. His conversations with the Stormfather reveal a growing awareness of the ancient fears that led to the Radiants abandoning their vows during the Recreance. Dalinar is haunted by the possibility that these vows were forsaken out of fear of destroying the world again, a realization that challenges his understanding of morality and duty. Despite this, he remains resolute, vowing not to let history repeat itself and to uphold the Radiants’ oaths, even as doubts and fears surface within him.
Meanwhile, the chapter depicts a scene of practical military and political action as Dalinar intercepts his bridgemen, who plan to return to Urithiru to share their discoveries about the ancient Radiants. Their concern about the ongoing invasion and their desire to fight for a just cause reflect the broader struggle for survival and righteousness amid chaos. Dalinar’s internal fears about the safety of his allies, including Elhokar and Adolin, intensify as he contemplates the possibility that none of them may return. This underscores the personal cost of leadership and the burden of responsibility during times of war and uncertainty.
In the concluding sections, political tensions escalate as Dalinar interacts with various factions and leaders, including Vizier Noura, who warns him about the dangers of manipulation and the risky nature of the Oathgate. The chapter emphasizes the pervasive atmosphere of mistrust and the moral ambiguity faced by those in power. Dalinar’s commitment to truth and unity is challenged by the reality of deception and the dangerous powers at play. The chapter ends with a sense of foreboding, as alliances are tested and the true nature of the threat facing Roshar becomes increasingly clear, highlighting the complex interplay of politics, ancient secrets, and the struggle for survival.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What internal and external conflicts does Dalinar face in this chapter, and how do these conflicts reflect his character development?
Answer:
Dalinar faces both internal and external conflicts in this chapter. Internally, he struggles with feelings of guilt and frustration over his past decisions, such as withholding the visions and the burden of leadership. He questions whether he belongs in his position and fears the consequences of his actions, especially regarding the Radiants’ potential to abandon their vows again. Externally, he contends with distrust from other monarchs, the threat of invasion, and the political manipulations surrounding him, such as Queen Fen and Noura’s suspicions. These conflicts highlight his growth from a warrior to a leader burdened by moral dilemmas, showing his internal battle to uphold his principles while navigating a complex political landscape.2. Question 2
How does the chapter explore the theme of trust, particularly in relation to Dalinar’s leadership and the broader political situation?
Answer:
Trust is a central theme in this chapter, illustrated through Dalinar’s strained relationships with other monarchs and his own doubts. The political figures below him—Queen Fen, Noura, and others—distrust his motives and question his sincerity, especially regarding his visions and the true origin of humankind. Dalinar himself grapples with trust, both in others and in his own judgment, as he reflects on the potential for deception and manipulation. The chapter underscores how trust is fragile in times of crisis, and leadership requires not only strategic decisions but also the ability to inspire confidence amidst suspicion and uncertainty.3. Question 3
What is the significance of the historical and mythic references, such as the mention of the Recreance and Honor’s dying, in understanding the chapter’s message?
Answer:
The references to the Recreance and Honor’s dying deepen the chapter’s exploration of sacrifice, fear, and the fallibility of even revered figures. The Recreance symbolizes the Radiants’ abandonment of their vows, driven by fear of destroying the world, which reflects the complex motivations behind seemingly treacherous actions. Honor’s decline illustrates how even divine-like figures are vulnerable and how their loss of support can lead to chaos. These references serve to highlight the themes of moral ambiguity, the cost of fear-driven decisions, and the importance of understanding historical context to grasp present conflicts. They remind readers that greatness is often intertwined with tragedy and that leadership involves confronting uncomfortable truths.4. Question 4
In what ways does the chapter depict the dilemma of truth versus political expediency, and how might this influence future decisions?
Answer:
The chapter vividly portrays the tension between honesty and political strategy. Dalinar refuses to base the coalition on lies, despite the suspicions and manipulations around him, such as Noura’s warning about the Oathgate being dangerous. His insistence on truth symbolizes moral integrity, but it also complicates alliances and negotiations, as other leaders are wary of the full extent of the truth. This dilemma influences future decisions by forcing Dalinar to weigh the cost of transparency against the benefits of deception. It underscores that leadership often involves difficult choices about whether to prioritize moral clarity or political survival, a theme that will likely shape subsequent events.5. Question 5
Critically evaluate Dalinar’s decision to stand firm on the truth despite political pressure. What are the potential risks and rewards of this approach?
Answer:
Dalinar’s decision to uphold the truth reflects his integrity and commitment to moral principles, which can inspire loyalty and trust among those who value honesty. However, this approach carries significant risks: it may alienate allies, weaken political alliances, or hinder strategic cooperation if others perceive him as inflexible or naïve. The warning from Noura that the coalition may already be built on lies illustrates how political expediency often demands deception. The rewards include maintaining personal and moral credibility, potentially preventing the erosion of trust in the long run, and staying true to his values. Conversely, the risks involve jeopardizing fragile alliances essential for confronting external threats, such as the invasion. Ultimately, Dalinar’s stance could either strengthen his leadership or leave him vulnerable if others choose deception over honesty.
Quotes
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1. “If I’m correct and my research true, then the question remains. Who is the ninth Unmade? Is it truly Dai-Gonarthis? If so, could their actions have actually caused the complete destruction of Aimia?”
This quote highlights the chapter’s fascination with the mysterious Unmade and the broader questions of causality and divine influence, setting a tone of inquiry and uncertainty.
2. “He’d left the other monarchs arguing in the temple below; anything he said only seemed to widen the rifts among them. They didn’t trust him. They’d never really trusted him. His deception proved them right.”
This reflects Dalinar’s internal struggle with trust and leadership, emphasizing themes of political isolation and self-doubt in the face of betrayal.
3. “When has any man ever been content with what he has? When has any tyrant ever said to himself, ‘This is enough’?”
This rhetorical question underscores the chapter’s exploration of human greed and insatiable desire, linking personal ambition to broader cycles of tyranny and conflict.
4. “It was not only the truth of humankind’s origin that caused the Recreance. It was the distinct, powerful fear that they would destroy this world, as men like them had destroyed the one before. The Radiants abandoned their vows for that reason, as will you.”
This profound insight reveals the deep-rooted fears behind the Radiants’ historic decision to abandon their oaths, framing it as an act of self-preservation driven by existential dread.
5. “Our enemy hasn’t changed,” Dalinar said to them. “The need for a coalition is as strong as ever.”
This statement encapsulates the chapter’s core message about ongoing conflict and the necessity of unity, despite mistrust and political upheaval, emphasizing resilience in the face of persistent threats.