Tower of Dawn
Chapter Two
by Maas, Sarah J.The chapter introduces Nesryn, a character torn between two facets of her identity. On one hand, she fulfills her duty as Captain of Adarlan’s Royal Guard, committed to her king’s orders and prepared to muster an army. On the other hand, she harbors deep emotional ties to her homeland, a city rich in cultural diversity and spiritual significance. As she navigates her responsibilities, her internal conflict is palpable—she must project strength and composure while grappling with her longing for the homeland that feels both familiar and sacred. This duality underscores her complex character, caught between duty and personal attachment.
Nesryn’s homeland is vividly described as a city of divine grandeur, with spires, minarets, and domes symbolizing its spiritual and political importance. The city’s vibrant culture is reflected in its diverse skin tones, hair, and eyes, emphasizing a melting pot of kingdoms and peoples. Nesryn’s connection to this place is emotional and visceral; she perceives it as her true home, where her family and her identity are rooted. Despite her allegiance to Adarlan, her heart remains intertwined with her homeland’s traditions and people, which she considers her true sanctuary amidst her demanding duties.
The narrative also explores the political landscape, centered around the khagan, a ruler revered as a living myth. The khagan’s throne and his authority are depicted with reverence, illustrating the deep-rooted belief in divine kingship within this society. His presence commands respect, and his history—marked by scars and wisdom—reflects a ruler who has fought to maintain his empire’s strength and influence. Nesryn’s interaction with this figure conveys the high stakes of her mission, as she prepares to engage in court diplomacy with a leader whose power is both tangible and mythic, emphasizing the gravity of her task.
The chapter concludes with a detailed portrayal of the khagan’s court and the cultural intricacies of this empire. The setting, with its opulent throne and symbols of divine rule, underscores the grandeur and complexity of the political environment Nesryn must navigate. Her observations highlight the contrasts between her homeland’s traditions and her current role, emphasizing the delicate balance of power, loyalty, and cultural identity. The scene sets the stage for the political negotiations and personal challenges ahead, establishing a tone of reverence, tension, and anticipation for what is to come.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What are the two parts of Nesryn’s identity as described in the chapter, and how do they influence her behavior and feelings?
Answer:
Nesryn perceives herself as having two parts: one as the Captain of Adarlan’s Royal Guard, committed to her duties and allegiance to her king, which prompts her to hold her head high and maintain a nonthreatening stance; and another as someone deeply connected to her homeland, Antica, and her people, which evokes feelings of longing, pride, and belonging. This duality influences her behavior by balancing her outward professionalism with her internal emotional ties to her cultural roots. While she must project strength and loyalty outwardly, internally she feels a strong connection to her heritage and homeland, which stirs emotional vulnerability despite her composed exterior.2. Question 2
How does the setting of Antica and the description of the city’s architecture and culture contribute to the reader’s understanding of Nesryn’s background and identity?
Answer:
The detailed depiction of Antica, with its spires, minarets, domes, temples, and the god-city itself, highlights its rich cultural and religious history, emphasizing its status as a sacred and labyrinthine city. The mention of the diverse skin tones, black hair, and wide-ranging eye colors underscores the multicultural and inclusive nature of her homeland, contrasting with the more uniform or oppressive environments she might have experienced elsewhere. This setting deepens the reader’s understanding of Nesryn’s pride in her heritage, her emotional connection to her roots, and the significance of her homeland as a place of cultural richness and acceptance, which she deeply values.3. Question 3
In what ways does Nesryn’s interaction with the khagan reflect the political and cultural tensions present in the chapter?
Answer:
Nesryn’s interaction with the khagan, including her awareness of court protocol and her cautious demeanor, underscores the political delicacy of her mission and the high stakes involved. The khagan’s authoritative presence, his scars, and his regal yet intimidating posture reflect a ruler who has fought for his throne and commands respect. The fact that he does not wear a crown because gods among mortals do not need markers of divine rule points to the complex intersection of religion, power, and tradition in this society. Nesryn’s respectful but cautious approach signifies the underlying tensions between her homeland’s cultural identity and the political realities of the god-city, hinting at the broader power dynamics and potential conflicts.4. Question 4
How might Nesryn’s internal conflict between her duties and her emotional ties to her homeland influence her decision-making and actions throughout the story?
Answer:
Nesryn’s internal conflict—balancing her role as a loyal guard and her deep emotional connection to her homeland—can create tension in her decision-making. Her sense of duty compels her to fulfill her responsibilities and respect the political protocols of her mission, even if it means suppressing her personal feelings. Conversely, her longing for her homeland and her people’s acceptance might motivate her to act in ways that prioritize cultural loyalty or emotional considerations. This duality can lead to internal struggles, influencing her choices to either prioritize duty or pursue actions that reinforce her identity and emotional well-being, ultimately shaping her character development and interactions.5. Question 5
Critically evaluate the significance of the khagan’s non-crown status and the symbolism behind his scars and attire. What does this reveal about the society depicted in the chapter?
Answer:
The khagan’s choice not to wear a crown, because gods among mortals do not need markers of divine authority, symbolizes a society that values innate power and divine right over material symbols. His scars serve as visible proof of his battles and sacrifices, emphasizing that his authority is earned through strength and perseverance rather than adornments. His regal attire, composed of fine silk and precious stones, along with his commanding presence, demonstrates the importance of wealth, tradition, and martial prowess. This society venerates rulers who have fought for their throne and earned their position through deeds, not symbols, reflecting a culture that intertwines divine reverence with martial valor and personal sacrifice, shaping societal values around legitimacy and strength.
Quotes
1. “There were two parts of her, Nesryn supposed.”
This opening line introduces the internal conflict within Nesryn, highlighting the duality of her identity—her outward role of loyalty and duty versus her inner sense of belonging and homeland. It sets the stage for exploring her complex sense of allegiance and personal history.
2. “The part that had glimpsed the spires and minarets and domes of the god-city breaking over the horizon… and had to swallow back tears.”
This quote captures Nesryn’s deep emotional connection to her homeland and her sense of belonging. It emphasizes the significance of place and cultural identity, contrasting her external duties with her inner longing for home.
3. “A kingdom for every ring adorning his scar-flecked fingers, precious stones glinting among them.”
This vivid description of the khagan’s hands symbolizes his extensive power, conquests, and wealth. It underscores the political and military strength he embodies, framing him as a formidable ruler whose authority is visibly marked and reinforced through symbols of conquest.
4. “It was indeed pure gold, just as her father’s whispered legends claimed.”
This line reflects the blending of myth and reality surrounding the khagan and the city. It emphasizes the grandeur and almost divine status attributed to the city and its ruler, reinforcing themes of legend, reverence, and the divine right of kings.
5. “He was obeyed his entire life, and fought to earn his crown. And executed two of the…”
Although incomplete, this quote hints at the khagan’s ruthless nature and the sacrifices he made to secure his power. It offers insight into the ruthless political landscape and the harsh realities of leadership in this world.