The Maze Runner
Chapter 13
by Dashner, JamesIn Chapter 13 of *The Maze Runner*, Thomas is intrigued by the discovery of a dead Griever, a terrifying creature that inhabits the Maze. Minho, a Runner, reports finding the lifeless body near the Cliff, sparking disbelief and urgency in Alby, the Glade’s leader. The revelation is unprecedented, as Grievers are typically feared and never found dead. Thomas, though curious, remains silent, observing the tense exchange between Minho and Alby, who debates investigating the scene but decides to wait until morning. The chapter highlights the mystery surrounding the Griever’s death and the Gladers’ cautious approach to unexplained events.
The tension escalates as Alby confronts Thomas, accusing him of knowing more than he admits about the recent anomalies, including the dead Griever and the arrival of a girl in the Glade. Thomas vehemently denies any knowledge, frustrated by Alby’s hostility. Their argument underscores the Gladers’ survival mentality, where trust is scarce, and every odd occurrence is scrutinized. Alby demands Thomas promise to share any memories or clues, which Thomas reluctantly agrees to, though he resents the pressure. This interaction deepens the rift between them and emphasizes Thomas’s isolation.
Thomas seeks solitude under a tree, exhausted and overwhelmed, but his peace is interrupted by Chuck, who delivers shocking news: Ben, the boy who attacked Thomas, survived his injuries and is imprisoned in the Slammer. Chuck reveals that the Keepers have decided to Banish Ben as punishment, a fate worse than death. Thomas is disturbed by Chuck’s gleeful reaction, hinting at the grim nature of Banishment. The chapter builds suspense around this mysterious punishment, leaving Thomas—and the reader—to wonder what horrors await Ben beyond the Glade’s walls.
As night falls, the Gladers gather near the East Door for Ben’s Banishment. The atmosphere is heavy with dread, and Thomas observes the Runners returning from mapping the Maze, their exhaustion evident. Alby orders Ben to be brought out, and the chapter ends on a cliffhanger as three boys drag Ben toward the group. The impending Banishment looms large, leaving Thomas—and the reader—to grapple with the Glade’s harsh justice and the unknown terrors of the Maze. The chapter masterfully blends mystery, tension, and moral ambiguity, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of Minho finding a dead Griever, and how do Alby and Minho react to this discovery?
Answer:
The discovery of a dead Griever is unprecedented in the Glade, as evidenced by Alby’s shocked reaction and Thomas’s observation that it “definitely never happened before.” Grievers are typically feared, lethal creatures, so finding one dead raises questions about changes in the Maze’s dynamics. Alby responds with disbelief and intense questioning, asking about the Griever’s appearance and condition, while Minho is annoyed but adamant about its reality. Their reactions highlight the gravity of this anomaly, suggesting it may signal a shift in the Gladers’ environment or the rules of their confinement.2. Analyze the conflict between Thomas and Alby in this chapter. What does it reveal about their characters and the Glade’s social structure?
Answer:
The conflict stems from Alby’s suspicion that Thomas’s arrival is connected to recent unusual events (the dead Griever, the girl’s appearance, Ben’s attack). Alby represents the Glade’s survival-focused leadership, prioritizing security over trust. His harsh words (“Drop your sissy side”) reveal a pragmatic, authoritarian approach. Thomas, meanwhile, is frustrated by being blamed without evidence, showing his growing assertiveness (“Back off!”). This clash underscores the Glade’s tense hierarchy—where newcomers are distrusted—and Thomas’s struggle to prove himself while grappling with his own ignorance about the Glade’s mysteries.3. How does Chuck’s announcement about Ben’s survival and impending Banishment contribute to the chapter’s tension?
Answer:
Chuck’s revelation that Ben survived the arrow attack—and will be Banished instead—introduces dread and moral ambiguity. Thomas initially feels guilty relief over Ben’s presumed death, complicating his emotional response. Chuck’s disturbing smile when describing the Banishment hints at its severity, implying it is worse than death (likely being sent into the Maze with Grievers). This foreshadows a grim ritual, heightening tension as the Gladers gather at the East Door. The event underscores the Glade’s brutal justice system and the psychological toll on its inhabitants, who treat punishment as “exciting news.”4. What thematic elements are emphasized through Thomas’s interactions with the Gladers in this chapter?
Answer:
The chapter explores themes of mistrust, survival, and identity. Thomas’s alienation is palpable—he is excluded from conversations (e.g., Minho and Alby discussing the Griever), accused without proof, and left to process shocking news alone. The Gladers’ focus on survival (“All we care about is surviving,” Alby says) justifies their harshness, contrasting with Thomas’s desire for understanding. His question (“Why do you hate me so much?”) reflects his struggle to reconcile his unknown past with his current role as an outsider. The themes highlight the dehumanizing effects of their trapped existence and Thomas’s journey toward self-assertion.5. Predict the implications of the dead Griever for the Gladers’ understanding of the Maze. How might this discovery affect their future actions?
Answer:
The dead Griever challenges the Gladers’ assumption that Grievers are invincible threats, potentially hinting at vulnerability in the Maze’s systems. This could inspire them to investigate further, as Minho urges (“You gotta see it for yourself”). If Grievers can die, the Gladers might seek ways to combat them, altering their passive survival strategy. Alternatively, the death could signal a deliberate change by the Maze’s creators, possibly escalating challenges. The discovery may unite the Gladers against a common mystery or deepen divisions, as leaders like Alby grow more paranoid about anomalies tied to Thomas’s arrival.
Quotes
1. “Ain’t got nothin’ to do with no hate or like or love or friends or anything. All we care about is surviving. Drop your sissy side and start using that shuck brain if you got one.”
This quote from Alby encapsulates the harsh survival mentality of the Gladers. It highlights the brutal pragmatism that governs their society, where emotions and personal relationships take a backseat to sheer survival in the Maze.
2. “But if you remember anything, if something even seems familiar, you better start talking. Promise me.”
Alby’s demand to Thomas represents the central mystery and tension of the chapter. It underscores the Gladers’ suspicion that Thomas is connected to the unusual events (like the dead Griever), and sets up the ongoing conflict between Thomas’s lost memories and the community’s need for answers.
3. “He’s being Banished. Tonight, for trying to kill you.”
This revelation about Ben’s fate introduces the concept of Banishment, a crucial element of Glader justice. The quote is significant because it shows the severe consequences for breaking community rules, while also creating suspense about what Banishment actually entails in this dangerous environment.
4. “And then Thomas saw perhaps the most disturbing thing he’d seen since he’d arrived at the Glade. Chuck didn’t answer; he only smiled.”
This moment reveals the disturbing normalization of violence among the Gladers. Chuck’s smile at the news of Ben’s Banishment suggests how desensitized the boys have become to harsh punishments, adding to the dystopian atmosphere of their society.
5. “It still bothered Thomas how Chuck had smiled when breaking the news about Ben being Banished.”
This reflection from Thomas serves as a moral counterpoint to the Gladers’ hardened attitudes. It shows Thomas’s growing unease with the community’s brutal practices and foreshadows his eventual role in challenging the status quo of the Glade.