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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

    26. Blackthorn Unleashed

    by Sanderson, Brandon

    The chap­ter begins with a flash­back to twen­ty-nine years ear­li­er, depict­ing Dali­nar’s spir­i­tu­al and cul­tur­al prac­tices amid a war­camp. He observes Evi per­form­ing her unique prayers with burn­ing glyphs, high­light­ing her hereti­cal beliefs and her diver­gence from tra­di­tion­al reli­gious cus­toms. Dalinar’s sim­ple prayer for strength reveals his prag­mat­ic mind­set, while Evi’s words about the One and her hereti­cal faith con­trast with the ortho­dox Ardents’ teach­ings. Their inter­ac­tion under­scores Dali­nar’s inter­nal con­flict regard­ing his faith and his rela­tion­ship with Evi, empha­siz­ing the ten­sion between per­son­al beliefs and soci­etal expec­ta­tions in their world.

    As the nar­ra­tive tran­si­tions to the present, Dali­nar pre­pares for an upcom­ing bat­tle, don­ning his Shard­plate and mount­ing his horse amid the gath­er­ing army. The scene cap­tures the scale of the con­flict, with sol­diers, cav­al­ry, and archers ready­ing for com­bat. Dalinar’s thoughts reveal his focus on the strate­gic impor­tance of this con­fronta­tion, not just as a mil­i­tary engage­ment but as a piv­otal moment for the kingdom’s future. The atmos­phere is tense, filled with antic­i­pa­tion for the impend­ing clash, sym­bol­iz­ing a crit­i­cal turn­ing point in the ongo­ing war and polit­i­cal strug­gles.

    Dalinar’s inter­ac­tion with his broth­er Gav­i­lar intro­duces polit­i­cal intrigue and mil­i­tary strat­e­gy. Gavilar’s plans to elim­i­nate High­prince Kalanor and solid­i­fy con­trol through the death of Kalanor, a Shard­bear­er, high­light the ruth­less tac­tics employed to con­sol­i­date pow­er. Dalinar’s dis­dain for cer­tain lead­ers and his skep­ti­cism about their motives reflect his own moral code and desire for deci­sive action. Gavilar’s con­fi­dence in his plans and his sub­tle manip­u­la­tions reveal the com­plex polit­i­cal land­scape, set­ting the stage for a con­fronta­tion that could dra­mat­i­cal­ly alter the pow­er dynam­ics with­in their realm.

    The chap­ter con­cludes with Dali­nar con­tem­plat­ing Gavilar’s desire for him to bring Kalanor into bat­tle to “unleash” him, sym­bol­iz­ing the need to pro­voke Kalanor into action. Dalinar’s inter­nal sus­pi­cion about Gavilar’s true intentions—whether they aim to con­trol or destroy Kalanor—adds lay­ers of com­plex­i­ty to their rela­tion­ship. The nar­ra­tive under­scores the over­ar­ch­ing theme of pow­er, con­trol, and the unpre­dictable nature of lead­er­ship with­in a war-torn soci­ety. Dalinar’s resolve to act deci­sive­ly reflects his role as the Black­thorn, poised to influ­ence the course of events with strength and strate­gic insight.

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    FAQs

    • 1. What cultural and religious differences are evident in Dalinar’s interactions with Evi, and how do these differences influence their relationship?

      Answer:
      Dalinar and Evi come from different cultural and religious backgrounds, which is evident in their practices and beliefs. Evi’s people perform more elaborate prayers involving burning pungent glyphs and speak of a different divine entity called the One, rather than the Almighty worshiped by Dalinar’s culture. These differences create tension in their relationship; Dalinar’s pragmatic, straightforward approach to prayer contrasts with Evi’s more ritualistic and heretical traditions. Despite this, there is tenderness between them, but Dalinar’s internal struggle with her beliefs and her long engagement demands reflect the broader challenge of reconciling these cultural differences within their relationship.

      2. How does Dalinar’s perception of the coming battle reflect his leadership style and personal values?

      Answer:
      Dalinar’s perception of the approaching battle underscores his pragmatic and disciplined leadership style. He is focused on the strategic aspects—such as the deployment of armies, the importance of forcing Kalanor to engage, and the significance of killing the enemy’s leader to weaken resistance. His internal thoughts reveal a desire for decisive action and a recognition of the importance of strength and courage, embodied in his desire to be “the Blackthorn” and to unleash Dalinar’s true power. His values emphasize strength, honor, and the importance of decisive leadership, which contrast with Gavilar’s more political and strategic approach. This perception highlights Dalinar’s commitment to battlefield honor and his belief in strength as a means to ensure stability.

      3. In what ways does the chapter illustrate the theme of leadership and authority through the interactions between Gavilar and Dalinar?

      Answer:
      The chapter portrays a complex dynamic of leadership and authority, especially through Gavilar and Dalinar’s interactions. Gavilar’s strategic planning and his focus on political maneuvering—such as the plan to kill Kalanor and secure power—contrast with Dalinar’s more direct, martial approach. Gavilar’s confidence in his tactics and his desire for Dalinar to “bring him Kalanor” reflect a manipulative aspect of leadership, aiming to control outcomes through strategic moves. Dalinar, on the other hand, values strength and honor, even if he questions Gavilar’s methods or underlying motives. Their interaction reveals differing leadership styles—Gavilar’s cunning and political foresight versus Dalinar’s straightforward martial ethos—highlighting the tension between authority based on political strategy and that based on personal strength and integrity.

      4. How do the descriptions of the battlefield and the gathering armies set the tone for the impending conflict, and what does this reveal about the stakes involved?

      Answer:
      The detailed descriptions of the battlefield, with the large army, the deployment of soldiers, and the rare sight of Ryshadium horses, create an atmosphere thick with anticipation and seriousness. The mention of the “real battle” and the significance of the fight for the kingdom emphasize that this is a pivotal moment. The presence of the impressive forces and the strategic focus on Kalanor’s potential death highlight that the stakes are high—not just for victory but for the future political landscape of the kingdom. The chapter’s tone underscores the gravity of the conflict, framing it as a decisive, almost existential struggle that will determine power, stability, and Dalinar’s legacy.

      5. Reflecting on Dalinar’s internal thoughts and the chapter’s themes, what can be inferred about his character and the internal conflicts he faces?

      Answer:
      Dalinar is portrayed as a character torn between his martial instincts and the political and cultural expectations imposed upon him. His internal thoughts reveal a desire for strength and action, yet he is also aware of the political machinations surrounding him. His frustration with Evi’s traditions and her long engagement, along with his subtle suspicion of Gavilar’s motives, hint at internal conflicts about loyalty, honor, and the true nature of leadership. Dalinar’s reflection on the idea of unleashing Kalanor suggests he recognizes the importance of raw power but also questions whether he can control or be controlled by the circumstances around him. Overall, his character embodies a struggle between his innate strength and the complex political realities he must navigate.

    Quotes

    • 1. “He didn’t feel like having Evi write it out.”

      This quote highlights Dalinar’s pragmatic and straightforward approach to prayer, emphasizing his desire for simplicity and strength over ritualistic or elaborate expressions. It reflects his focus on inner resolve rather than external ceremonies, setting the tone for his character’s values.

      2. “Dalinar made no reply. Even though Evi and her brother had delayed and blow away. And…”

      This moment underscores Dalinar’s internal conflict and sense of frustration with the political and personal delays affecting his life. It reveals his growing awareness of the personal sacrifices and the weight of leadership he carries.

      3. “Bring me Kalanor, Brother,” Gavilar said. “We need the Blackthorn today.”

      This statement encapsulates the chapter’s central theme—the importance of unleashing Dalinar’s true strength, the Blackthorn, to achieve strategic victory. It signifies a pivotal moment where the chapter’s focus shifts towards the necessity of embracing one’s true power in the face of conflict.

      4. “Marrying me off, talking about how we have to be ‘civilized’ now? Highlighting everything I do wrong as the things we must expunge?”

      This reflective thought exposes Dalinar’s suspicion of Gavilar’s manipulations and the underlying tensions about power, control, and the true nature of their alliance. It hints at deeper conflicts and the question of whether Dalinar can remain true to himself amid political machinations.

    Quotes

    1. “He didn’t feel like having Evi write it out.”

    This quote highlights Dalinar’s pragmatic and straightforward approach to prayer, emphasizing his desire for simplicity and strength over ritualistic or elaborate expressions. It reflects his focus on inner resolve rather than external ceremonies, setting the tone for his character’s values.

    2. “Dalinar made no reply. Even though Evi and her brother had delayed and blow away. And…”

    This moment underscores Dalinar’s internal conflict and sense of frustration with the political and personal delays affecting his life. It reveals his growing awareness of the personal sacrifices and the weight of leadership he carries.

    3. “Bring me Kalanor, Brother,” Gavilar said. “We need the Blackthorn today.”

    This statement encapsulates the chapter’s central theme—the importance of unleashing Dalinar’s true strength, the Blackthorn, to achieve strategic victory. It signifies a pivotal moment where the chapter’s focus shifts towards the necessity of embracing one’s true power in the face of conflict.

    4. “Marrying me off, talking about how we have to be ‘civilized’ now? Highlighting everything I do wrong as the things we must expunge?”

    This reflective thought exposes Dalinar’s suspicion of Gavilar’s manipulations and the underlying tensions about power, control, and the true nature of their alliance. It hints at deeper conflicts and the question of whether Dalinar can remain true to himself amid political machinations.

    FAQs

    1. What cultural and religious differences are evident in Dalinar’s interactions with Evi, and how do these differences influence their relationship?

    Answer:
    Dalinar and Evi come from different cultural and religious backgrounds, which is evident in their practices and beliefs. Evi’s people perform more elaborate prayers involving burning pungent glyphs and speak of a different divine entity called the One, rather than the Almighty worshiped by Dalinar’s culture. These differences create tension in their relationship; Dalinar’s pragmatic, straightforward approach to prayer contrasts with Evi’s more ritualistic and heretical traditions. Despite this, there is tenderness between them, but Dalinar’s internal struggle with her beliefs and her long engagement demands reflect the broader challenge of reconciling these cultural differences within their relationship.

    2. How does Dalinar’s perception of the coming battle reflect his leadership style and personal values?

    Answer:
    Dalinar’s perception of the approaching battle underscores his pragmatic and disciplined leadership style. He is focused on the strategic aspects—such as the deployment of armies, the importance of forcing Kalanor to engage, and the significance of killing the enemy’s leader to weaken resistance. His internal thoughts reveal a desire for decisive action and a recognition of the importance of strength and courage, embodied in his desire to be “the Blackthorn” and to unleash Dalinar’s true power. His values emphasize strength, honor, and the importance of decisive leadership, which contrast with Gavilar’s more political and strategic approach. This perception highlights Dalinar’s commitment to battlefield honor and his belief in strength as a means to ensure stability.

    3. In what ways does the chapter illustrate the theme of leadership and authority through the interactions between Gavilar and Dalinar?

    Answer:
    The chapter portrays a complex dynamic of leadership and authority, especially through Gavilar and Dalinar’s interactions. Gavilar’s strategic planning and his focus on political maneuvering—such as the plan to kill Kalanor and secure power—contrast with Dalinar’s more direct, martial approach. Gavilar’s confidence in his tactics and his desire for Dalinar to “bring him Kalanor” reflect a manipulative aspect of leadership, aiming to control outcomes through strategic moves. Dalinar, on the other hand, values strength and honor, even if he questions Gavilar’s methods or underlying motives. Their interaction reveals differing leadership styles—Gavilar’s cunning and political foresight versus Dalinar’s straightforward martial ethos—highlighting the tension between authority based on political strategy and that based on personal strength and integrity.

    4. How do the descriptions of the battlefield and the gathering armies set the tone for the impending conflict, and what does this reveal about the stakes involved?

    Answer:
    The detailed descriptions of the battlefield, with the large army, the deployment of soldiers, and the rare sight of Ryshadium horses, create an atmosphere thick with anticipation and seriousness. The mention of the “real battle” and the significance of the fight for the kingdom emphasize that this is a pivotal moment. The presence of the impressive forces and the strategic focus on Kalanor’s potential death highlight that the stakes are high—not just for victory but for the future political landscape of the kingdom. The chapter’s tone underscores the gravity of the conflict, framing it as a decisive, almost existential struggle that will determine power, stability, and Dalinar’s legacy.

    5. Reflecting on Dalinar’s internal thoughts and the chapter’s themes, what can be inferred about his character and the internal conflicts he faces?

    Answer:
    Dalinar is portrayed as a character torn between his martial instincts and the political and cultural expectations imposed upon him. His internal thoughts reveal a desire for strength and action, yet he is also aware of the political machinations surrounding him. His frustration with Evi’s traditions and her long engagement, along with his subtle suspicion of Gavilar’s motives, hint at internal conflicts about loyalty, honor, and the true nature of leadership. Dalinar’s reflection on the idea of unleashing Kalanor suggests he recognizes the importance of raw power but also questions whether he can control or be controlled by the circumstances around him. Overall, his character embodies a struggle between his innate strength and the complex political realities he must navigate.

    Note