Oathbringer: The Stormlight Archive
Book Author: Brandon Sanderson
Summary reviewed by:
Terrence Timmons
Terrence Timmons
Analyst
Bachelor of Arts (BA), University Of California, Santa Barbara 2019
With over 4 years of experience as an analyst. Terrence Timmons is committed to analyzing summaries without compromising on quality.
Oathbringer: The Stormlight Archive: Summary
From the pen of master storyteller Brandon Sanderson, "Oathbringer", third book in the epic Stormlight Archive series, is a heart-stopping race against time set in the world of Roshar – a land torn by supernatural tempests and populated by formidable beings known as spren. Thrilling and complex, this book is filled with intrigue, betrayal, and self-discovery, imbued with a sense of urgency that will make your heart beat faster.
In this mesmerizing installment, Dalinar Kholin, the Blackthorn, stands as the nexus of the tale. He is tormented by the pain of his past and the need to unite the splintered nations of Roshar against the oncoming onslaught of the enemy, the mystical Voidbringers. Meanwhile, the Radiants, those imbued with the power of the ancient spren, grapple with the weight of their destinies and the secrets of their order.
Accompanied by Shallan Davar, a young woman of immense Lightweaving capabilities and a deep pool of secrets, and Kaladin Stormblessed, a former slave turned elite warrior, Dalinar embarks on a mission that will shake the world to its core. As Dalinar wrestles with the ghosts of his past, he must delve into the ancient wisdom of the Knights Radiant, unravel the complexities of their oaths, and grapple with the harsh truth of the past.
Welcome to Roshar, a land where the stakes are monumentally high, every secret unburied affects the balance of power, and the bonds of brotherhood are tested as never before. "Oathbringer" will pull you into its pages, wrap you in a storm of emotions, and leave you utterly breathless.
Spoilers (click here to reveal spoilers)
Oathbringer: The Stormlight Archive: Genres
Fiction
Fantasy
Epic Fantasy
High Fantasy
Military Fantasy
Oathbringer: The Stormlight Archive: Main Characters
Dalinar Kholin: A Highprince of Alethkar, and bearer of the Shardblade Oathbringer. Defined by his honor and desire for unity, Dalinar seeks to unite the fractured princedoms, exemplified when he steps forward to take responsibility for his past actions.
Kaladin Stormblessed: A former slave turned Surgeon turned soldier, who has become a Windrunner Knight Radiant. Defined by his protective nature and strong sense of justice, Kaladin’s compassion shines through when he chooses to protect even those he views as enemies.
Shallan Davar: A young scholar with the power to Lightweave, she possesses the ability to create illusions. Defined by her intelligence and resilience, Shallan frequently uses her abilities to solve mysteries and protect those she loves.
Oathbringer: The Stormlight Archive: Themes
Personal Responsibility and Redemption: The novel explores this theme through the character arc of Dalinar Kholin. Despite his past filled with violent acts and brutal mistakes, he decides to face and take responsibility for them, an example being when he rejects Odium’s offer to absolve him of his guilt and pain. This choice opens his path to redemption and personal growth.
Identity and Self-Discovery: Characters, particularly Shallan, grapple with their identities and who they should be in the face of their pasts and their powers. This is showcased through Shallan’s multiple personas, as she uses them to cope with trauma and navigate challenging situations.
Unity and Brotherhood: The need for unity in times of crisis is a central theme in “Oathbringer”. Dalinar’s attempts to unite the diverse and feuding princedoms of Alethkar illustrate this theme. Similarly, the bond that develops between Kaladin, Shallan, and Adolin symbolizes the unity and brotherhood the Knights Radiant must form to face the oncoming Desolation.
Power and its Consequences: This theme explores how characters handle newfound power and the ethical implications thereof. A prime example is when Kaladin grapples with his abilities and the inherent responsibilities and potential consequences tied to them.
Facing Fear: This is a recurring theme in the book, shown through various characters who confront their deepest fears. An example of this is when Kaladin overcomes his fear of falling and embraces his ability to manipulate gravity, thereby turning his fear into a strength.
Oathbringer: The Stormlight Archive
Date Published: November 14, 2017
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