Plot Summary
Shadows Gather in the Keep
In a shadowy chamber, a man known as Bors attends a secret meeting with others, all masked and cloaked in black. They are summoned by a Myrddraal to hear the words of Ba'alzamon, who appears as a floating, masked figure. Ba'alzamon speaks of three young men who are crucial to his plans, and Bors is given orders to watch for them. The meeting is filled with tension and fear, as the attendees realize the power and danger of the one they serve.
The Amyrlin's Secret Summons
Rand al'Thor is summoned to meet the Amyrlin Seat, the leader of the Aes Sedai, in Fal Dara. He is nervous, fearing what she might know about him. The Amyrlin, along with Moiraine and other Aes Sedai, confronts Rand about his ability to channel the One Power. They reveal that he is the Dragon Reborn, destined to face the Dark One. Rand is shocked and struggles to accept this revelation, fearing the implications for his future.
Dark Prophecies Unveiled
In the dungeons of Fal Dara, a horrific scene is discovered: guards are murdered, and the walls are scrawled with dark prophecies in blood. The Aes Sedai, including Moiraine and Verin, examine the writings, which speak of the return of the Forsaken and the coming of the Last Battle. The prophecies hint at a dire future, and the Aes Sedai are troubled by the implications.
The Hunt for the Horn Begins
The Horn of Valere, a legendary artifact, has been stolen from Fal Dara. Ingtar and a group of Shienaran soldiers, along with Rand, Mat, Perrin, and Loial, set out to retrieve it. They are joined by Hurin, a sniffer who can track the scent of violence. The group is determined to recover the Horn before it falls into the wrong hands, knowing its power could turn the tide in the battle against the Shadow.
Shadows of the Past Linger
Rand al'Thor, along with Loial and Hurin, finds himself in a world that seems a shadow of their own. The landscape is eerily empty, with no signs of life except for the occasional burned swath of land. As they travel, Rand struggles with the void and the seductive pull of saidin, the male half of the One Power. The group is on the trail of Padan Fain and the stolen Horn of Valere, but the path is fraught with uncertainty and danger. Rand's internal battle with the Power and his fear of madness loom large as they press on, hoping to find a way back to their own world.
A Mysterious Woman's Influence
Rand encounters Selene, a beautiful and mysterious woman who claims to be from Cairhien. Her presence is both captivating and unsettling, as she encourages Rand to embrace the glory of finding the Horn of Valere. Despite her insistence, Rand remains wary of her true intentions. Selene's knowledge of the world and her influence over Rand create tension within the group, as they navigate the challenges of their journey. Her allure is undeniable, but Rand's loyalty to his friends and his mission keeps him grounded, even as he grapples with his growing feelings for her.
The Great Game's Deadly Dance
Thom Merrilin, the gleeman, finds himself drawn back into the deadly dance of Daes Dae'mar, the Great Game. Despite his efforts to remain uninvolved, Thom becomes a target of intrigue and assassination attempts. The murder of his companion, Dena, is a brutal reminder of the dangers of Cairhien's political machinations. Thom's past as a court bard and his knowledge of the Game make him a valuable asset and a dangerous threat. As he navigates the treacherous landscape, Thom must decide whether to seek revenge or escape the city before he becomes another casualty of the Game.
The Black Wind's Terrifying Return
Rand, Loial, and Hurin discover a Waygate in Lord Barthanes's manor, a remnant of an ancient Ogier grove. As they attempt to follow Fain and the Darkfriends through the Ways, they are confronted by the Black Wind, Machin Shin. The malevolent force, a terrifying entity that devours souls, nearly escapes into the world, but Rand, tapping into the One Power, manages to close the Waygate just in time. The encounter leaves Rand shaken, as he grapples with the seductive and dangerous nature of saidin. The experience underscores the peril of their quest and the relentless pursuit of the Darkfriends, who have taken the Horn of Valere into the Ways.
The Unexpected Alliance
Nynaeve, Elayne, and Min execute a bold plan to rescue Egwene from the Seanchan. Disguised as a sul'dam, Nynaeve uses her knowledge of the a'dam to free Egwene, who has been held captive and forced to channel. The group navigates the dangerous streets of Falme, evading Seanchan patrols and the ever-present threat of discovery. Their determination and quick thinking allow them to escape, but not without leaving a trail of chaos in their wake. The rescue is a testament to their bravery and the strength of their friendship, setting the stage for the battles to come.
The Battle for Falme
As the Seanchan and Whitecloaks clash in Falme, Rand confronts Ba'alzamon in a battle that transcends the physical realm. The fight is fierce and desperate, with Rand drawing on every ounce of his strength and skill. The clash is witnessed by all in Falme, as their battle is projected into the sky, a spectacle that will be remembered and retold across the land. Rand's victory is hard-won, but it comes at a cost, leaving him wounded and questioning his path. The battle marks a turning point, not only for Rand but for the world, as the Dragon Reborn's presence is revealed to all.
The Heroes of the Horn
Mat blows the Horn of Valere, calling forth legendary heroes from the past to aid in the battle against the Seanchan. Led by Artur Hawkwing, these heroes turn the tide, driving the Seanchan back and securing a victory for Rand and his allies. The appearance of the heroes is a moment of awe and wonder, reinforcing the significance of the Horn and its connection to the Dragon Reborn. The battle is a testament to the power of legend and prophecy, as the heroes fulfill their ancient roles in the Pattern.
The Dragon's Revelation
In the aftermath of the battle, Rand's identity as the Dragon Reborn is revealed to the world. The events in Falme have set the stage for the fulfillment of prophecy, and Rand must come to terms with his role in the Pattern. The revelation is both a burden and a calling, as Rand grapples with the implications of his destiny. The chapter closes with Rand's acceptance of his path, setting the stage for the challenges and conflicts to come. The world has changed, and Rand's journey as the Dragon Reborn has truly begun.
Characters
Rand al'Thor
Rand is a young man from the Two Rivers who discovers he can channel the One Power. He is revealed to be the Dragon Reborn, a figure prophesied to face the Dark One in the Last Battle. Rand struggles with the fear of going mad and the responsibility of his destiny, determined to find his own way. His journey is marked by internal conflict and growth, as he learns to accept his role in the Pattern and the immense burden it carries.
Moiraine Damodred
Moiraine is a member of the Blue Ajah, dedicated to finding and guiding the Dragon Reborn. She is calm and composed, using her knowledge and influence to protect Rand and prepare him for his role in the coming conflict. Moiraine is a key figure in the struggle against the Shadow, providing insight and direction in the midst of chaos. Her commitment to the fight against the Shadow is unwavering, and her presence is a stabilizing force for Rand and his allies.
The Amyrlin Seat (Siuan Sanche)
The Amyrlin Seat is the head of the Aes Sedai, tasked with maintaining the balance of power in the world. She is aware of Rand's identity and the importance of his role, working with Moiraine to ensure the prophecies are fulfilled. The Amyrlin is a formidable figure, balancing the needs of the White Tower with the fate of the world. Her leadership and determination are crucial in shaping the events that unfold.
Mat Cauthon
Mat is one of Rand's closest friends, known for his luck and mischievous nature. He is linked to a cursed dagger from Shadar Logoth, which threatens his life. Mat joins the quest to recover the Horn of Valere, hoping to break the dagger's hold on him. Despite his reluctance, he blows the Horn, summoning legendary heroes to aid in the battle. Mat's actions are pivotal in turning the tide against the Seanchan, and his connection to the Horn marks him as a key figure in the unfolding events.
Perrin Aybara
Perrin is another of Rand's friends, a blacksmith with a gentle nature. He possesses a mysterious connection to wolves, which he struggles to understand. Perrin is loyal and determined, joining the hunt for the Horn to support his friends and confront his own destiny. His connection to the wolves and his growing awareness of his abilities add layers of complexity to his character.
Loial
Loial is an Ogier, a race known for their love of knowledge and nature. He is fascinated by the ta'veren nature of Rand and his friends, eager to witness history unfold. Loial is wise and thoughtful, providing guidance and support on their journey. His strength and loyalty are invaluable to the group, as they face the challenges of their quest.
Ingtar Shinowa
Ingtar is a Shienaran lord tasked with leading the search for the Horn of Valere. He is a skilled and dedicated warrior, committed to the fight against the Shadow. Ingtar's leadership is crucial to the success of their mission. His revelation as a Darkfriend and his subsequent sacrifice are central to his character arc, highlighting the themes of redemption and the struggle between light and shadow.
Padan Fain
Padan Fain is a former peddler turned Darkfriend, who has become a twisted and dangerous figure. His obsession with Rand and the Horn of Valere drives him to pursue the group relentlessly. Fain's madness and the dark influence of Shadar Logoth make him a formidable adversary, as he seeks to fulfill his own twisted goals. His presence looms over the journey, a constant threat to Rand and his companions.
Selene
Selene is a captivating and enigmatic figure who joins Rand's journey. Her beauty and knowledge of the world are matched by her influence over Rand, as she encourages him to embrace the glory of finding the Horn of Valere. Despite her insistence that she is not Aes Sedai, her true nature and intentions remain unclear. Selene's presence adds tension and intrigue to the group's mission, as Rand grapples with his growing feelings for her and the mystery she represents.
Ba'alzamon
Ba'alzamon's confrontation with Rand is a central conflict in this section. His presence as a dark adversary and his attempts to sway Rand highlight the ongoing struggle between light and shadow. Ba'alzamon's character is a representation of the forces of darkness, and his interactions with Rand are a test of Rand's resolve and strength.
Plot Devices
The Horn of Valere
The Horn of Valere is a powerful artifact that can summon heroes from the past to fight in the Last Battle. Its theft from Fal Dara sets off a desperate quest to recover it before it falls into the wrong hands. The Horn's significance is a driving force in the story, symbolizing hope and the potential for victory against the Shadow. Its allure and the responsibility it represents weigh heavily on Rand, as he navigates the challenges of his journey.
Dark Prophecies
The dark prophecies scrawled in blood in the dungeons of Fal Dara hint at a grim future. They speak of the return of the Forsaken and the coming of the Last Battle, creating a sense of urgency and foreboding. These prophecies add depth to the story, highlighting the stakes and the challenges the characters face.
Ta'veren
Rand, Mat, and Perrin are ta'veren, people around whom the Pattern of the world weaves in unpredictable ways. This concept is central to the story, influencing events and the characters' destinies. The ta'veren nature of the three friends adds complexity to their journey, as they navigate the forces shaping their lives.
The Great Game (Daes Dae'mar)
The Great Game is a complex web of political intrigue and deception, where every action and word is scrutinized for hidden meanings. In Cairhien, the Game is a way of life, and Rand finds himself caught in its deadly dance. The Game shapes the destinies of those who play it, as alliances are formed and broken, and power is sought at any cost.
The Black Wind (Machin Shin)
Machin Shin is a terrifying entity that haunts the Ways, devouring souls and driving its victims mad. Its presence at the Waygate in Cairhien is a chilling reminder of the dangers that lurk in the shadows. The Black Wind's connection to the Darkfriends and its pursuit of Rand add layers of tension and danger to the quest for the Horn of Valere.
The A'dam
The a'dam, a device used by the Seanchan to control women who can channel, is a significant plot device in this section. Its role in Egwene's captivity and Nynaeve's rescue plan highlights the themes of power and control. The a'dam is both a symbol of oppression and a tool of liberation, as Nynaeve uses it to free Egwene and turn the tables on the Seanchan.
Analysis
"The Great Hunt" by Robert Jordan is a rich tapestry of destiny, choice, and the struggle between light and shadow. The narrative explores the burden of prophecy and the weight of responsibility, as Rand al'Thor grapples with his identity as the Dragon Reborn. The story delves into themes of power, control, and redemption, as characters navigate a world fraught with danger and intrigue. The Horn of Valere and the dark prophecies serve as symbols of hope and foreboding, driving the plot forward and highlighting the stakes of the conflict. The book's exploration of ta'veren and the Great Game adds layers of complexity, as characters are caught in the web of fate and political machinations. Ultimately, "The Great Hunt" is a tale of growth and acceptance, as Rand and his companions confront their fears and embrace their roles in the Pattern, setting the stage for the epic battles and challenges to come.
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FAQ
Synopsis & Basic Details
What is The Great Hunt about?
- A Prophecy Unveiled: The Great Hunt follows Rand al'Thor, a young man from the Two Rivers, as he grapples with the shocking revelation that he is the Dragon Reborn, a figure prophesied to either save or shatter the world. His journey begins with the theft of the legendary Horn of Valere, an artifact capable of summoning heroes from the past, setting him and his friends on a desperate quest.
- A World in Turmoil: The narrative plunges readers into a world teetering on the brink of the Last Battle, where ancient evils stir, new invaders (the Seanchan) emerge, and political intrigues (The Great Game) threaten to unravel nations. Rand, Mat, and Perrin, unknowingly ta'veren, find their lives inextricably woven into the Pattern, forcing them to confront their destinies amidst escalating chaos.
- Quest for a Legendary Artifact: The core plot revolves around the pursuit of the stolen Horn of Valere, leading Rand and his companions through treacherous landscapes, alternate realities via Portal Stones, and into the heart of Seanchan-occupied Falme, culminating in a dramatic confrontation that publicly reveals Rand's identity and summons legendary heroes to battle.
Why should I read The Great Hunt?
- Deepening World-Building: Robert Jordan significantly expands the intricate world of The Wheel of Time, introducing new cultures like the Seanchan and Aiel, exploring the mysterious Ways and Portal Stones, and delving into the complex political landscape of Cairhien. This book moves beyond the initial setup to truly immerse readers in the vastness of the Third Age.
- Intense Character Development: Readers witness profound psychological and emotional growth in the main characters, particularly Rand's struggle with his identity and the One Power, Mat's battle with a cursed dagger and his burgeoning luck, and Perrin's wrestling with his wolfbrother nature. Their internal conflicts are as compelling as the external threats.
- Epic Fantasy Action & Intrigue: The novel delivers on its promise of adventure, featuring thrilling chases, deadly encounters with Shadowspawn, intricate political maneuvering in Cairhien, and a climactic battle in Falme that reshapes the geopolitical map and fulfills ancient prophecies, making it a pivotal and action-packed installment.
What is the background of The Great Hunt?
- Post-Breaking World: The story is set in the Third Age, millennia after the Breaking of the World, a cataclysm caused by male Aes Sedai going mad from the Dark One's taint on saidin. This historical trauma underpins much of the world's fear and distrust of male channelers, directly impacting Rand's journey.
- Political Fragmentation & Ancient Prophecies: Nations are often at odds, like Tarabon and Arad Doman over Almoth Plain, or Cairhien embroiled in The Great Game. The White Tower, led by the Amyrlin Seat, struggles to maintain influence amidst the rise of false Dragons and the weakening seals on the Dark One's prison, all against the backdrop of the Karaethon Cycle, the prophecies foretelling the Dragon Reborn.
- Emergence of New Threats: Beyond the familiar Shadowspawn, the book introduces the Seanchan, an invading empire from across the Aryth Ocean, descendants of Artur Hawkwing's lost armies. Their unique culture, use of damane (leashed channelers), and monstrous beasts present a terrifying new dimension to the global conflict, adding urgency to the quest for the Horn of Valere.
What are the most memorable quotes in The Great Hunt?
- "The Wheel weaves as the Wheel wills.": This recurring phrase, often spoken by Moiraine and Verin, encapsulates the overarching theme of destiny versus free will, reminding characters and readers alike of the Pattern's inexorable influence on events and individuals, especially ta'veren.
- "Death is lighter than a feather, duty heavier than a mountain.": Uttered by Lan Mandragoran, this Malkieri saying defines the stoic, unwavering commitment to duty, particularly in the face of overwhelming odds. It profoundly impacts Rand, becoming a guiding principle in his acceptance of his destiny as the Dragon Reborn.
- "The grave is no bar to my call.": Inscribed on the Horn of Valere, this chilling yet hopeful line reveals the Horn's power to summon heroes from the dead, highlighting its immense significance in the Last Battle and the desperate stakes of the quest to reclaim it.
What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Robert Jordan use?
- Omniscient Third-Person Perspective: Jordan employs a deep omniscient third-person point of view, often shifting between characters within a single chapter or scene. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of multiple characters' thoughts, motivations, and perceptions, enriching the narrative with diverse viewpoints and internal monologues.
- Detailed Description and World-Building: The prose is rich with intricate descriptions of settings, clothing, customs, and the nuances of channeling the One Power. This meticulous detail creates a vivid and immersive world, though it can sometimes slow the pacing, allowing for a gradual unfolding of the complex geopolitical and magical systems.
- Foreshadowing and Prophetic Language: Jordan masterfully uses foreshadowing through dreams, prophecies (like the Karaethon Cycle and the dark prophecies in Fal Dara), and subtle hints in dialogue. This technique builds suspense and a sense of impending doom or destiny, often revealing information that characters themselves do not yet fully grasp, such as Rand's true identity or the nature of the a'dam.
Hidden Details & Subtle Connections
What are some minor details that add significant meaning?
- Bors's Whitecloak Identity: The prologue introduces "the man who called himself Bors," a masked Darkfriend. Later, he is revealed to be Geofram Bornhald, a Lord Captain of the Children of the Light. This subtle detail immediately establishes the pervasive reach of the Shadow, showing that even those ostensibly fighting for the Light can be corrupted, and foreshadows the moral ambiguities that will plague characters like Ingtar.
- Lan's "Sheathing the Sword" Lesson: Lan's final, cryptic lesson to Rand about "Sheathing the Sword" – allowing oneself to be struck to achieve a greater goal – is a profound foreshadowing of Rand's ultimate confrontation with Ba'alzamon. It hints at a sacrifice or a paradoxical victory that transcends conventional combat, emphasizing the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of Rand's struggle.
- The Topless Towers of Cairhien: Loial's lament over the "Topless Towers" (Chapter 25) reveals a deep cultural wound from the Aiel War, where the Aiel deliberately burned the towers, symbolizing the destruction of Cairhienin pride and ambition. This detail underscores the long-lasting consequences of past conflicts and the city's obsession with rebuilding, which becomes a backdrop for The Great Game.
What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?
- Ba'alzamon's "Lews Therin" Taunts: From the very first dream sequence, Ba'alzamon addresses Rand as "Lews Therin" and "Kinslayer." This is a direct callback to the Age of Legends and the original Dragon, subtly hinting at Rand's past lives and the cyclical nature of the Wheel of Time, long before Moiraine explicitly reveals his identity as the Dragon Reborn.
- Min's Viewings and Their Ambiguity: Min's visions, such as Elayne sharing a husband with two other women or seeing a severed hand around Elayne, are initially cryptic but serve as powerful foreshadowing for future events and relationships. Her inability to fully interpret them, and the characters' dismissal of them, highlights the unpredictable nature of prophecy and the limitations of human understanding.
- The Breaking Seals on the Dark One's Prison: Moiraine's discovery of the broken cuendillar seals (Chapter 5) is a stark callback to the sealing of the Dark One and a dire foreshadowing of his impending release. The fact that these unbreakable artifacts are fracturing underscores the escalating threat and the urgency of Rand's mission, signaling that the Last Battle is drawing near.
What are some unexpected character connections?
- Lan's Kinship to Isam/Luc: The dark prophecy read by Verin (Chapter 7) mentions "Luc came to the Mountains of Dhoom. Isam waited in the high passes. One did live, and one did die, but both are." This subtly connects Lan to the vanished Lord Luc (Tigraine's brother) and Isam (Breyan's son, Lan's blood kin), hinting at a deeper, tragic lineage for the stoic Warder and foreshadowing the later revelation of Slayer.
- Verin's Hidden Depth and Knowledge: While initially appearing as a stereotypical absent-minded Brown Ajah sister, Verin demonstrates an astonishing depth of knowledge about the Dragon Reborn, the Portal Stones, and the prophecies, far beyond what she lets on. Her calculated actions and willingness to manipulate events (e.g., her "accidental" revelation of Rand's channeling to the Amyrlin, her knowledge of the Portal Stones) suggest a hidden agenda or a more profound understanding of the Pattern than even Moiraine.
- Thom Merrilin's Connection to Owyn: Thom's revelation that his nephew, Owyn, was a male channeler gentled by the Red Ajah (Chapter 26) provides a poignant, personal motivation for his distrust of Aes Sedai and his eventual willingness to help Rand. This unexpected connection humanizes Thom's cynicism and highlights the tragic reality of male channelers, deepening the emotional stakes for Rand.
Who are the most significant supporting characters?
- Hurin, the Sniffer: Hurin's unique ability to "smell" violence and track its perpetrators (Chapter 9) is not just a plot device but a moral compass. His revulsion at the Seanchan's atrocities and his unwavering loyalty to Rand, despite Rand's mysterious nature, grounds the fantastical elements in a relatable sense of justice and human decency.
- Verin Mathwin, the Enigmatic Scholar: Beyond her Brown Ajah stereotype, Verin is a master manipulator and a repository of ancient knowledge. Her subtle guidance, willingness to bend rules, and deep understanding of prophecy (Chapter 31, 36) make her a crucial, if morally ambiguous, ally. Her true motivations often remain veiled, adding layers of intrigue to the Aes Sedai's plans.
- Thom Merrilin, the Resurfaced Mentor: Thom's unexpected return (Chapter 25) provides Rand with a much-needed mentor figure outside the Aes Sedai's influence. His past as a gleeman and court bard, coupled with his personal tragedy involving a male channeler, offers a cynical yet protective perspective on power and destiny, challenging Rand's perceptions and providing crucial information about the Karaethon Cycle.
Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis
What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?
- Ingtar's Desperate Search for Redemption: Ingtar's relentless pursuit of the Horn of Valere is driven by a deep, unspoken shame and a desperate desire for redemption, revealed in his confession as a Darkfriend (Chapter 46). His motivation isn't just duty, but a yearning to cleanse his soul and escape the Shadow's grasp, even if it means sacrificing his life.
- Selene's Thirst for Power and Control: Selene's constant encouragement for Rand to embrace greatness and her subtle attempts to isolate him from his friends hint at a deeper, more sinister motivation. Her true identity as Lanfear, one of the Forsaken, reveals her desire to reclaim Lews Therin Telamon and wield him as a tool for her own power, manipulating Rand's burgeoning abilities and destiny.
- Moiraine's Emotional Sacrifice: Moiraine's decision to arrange for Lan's bond to pass to Myrelle upon her death (Chapter 22) reveals a profound, unspoken emotional sacrifice. Despite her stoic demeanor, this act is born of a deep love and concern for Lan's future, ensuring he continues to fight the Shadow rather than seeking a futile, vengeful death, highlighting the personal cost of her dedication to the Pattern.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
- Rand's Identity Crisis and Fear of Madness: Rand's journey is a constant psychological battle between his identity as a simple Two Rivers shepherd and the terrifying reality of being the Dragon Reborn. His fear of the male taint on saidin and the inevitable madness (Chapter 1, 34) creates a profound internal conflict, making him distrust his own abilities and those who seek to guide him, leading to moments of self-loathing and desperate denial.
- Mat's Fatalism and the Dagger's Influence: Mat's increasing cynicism, recklessness, and morbid humor are direct psychological effects of the Shadar Logoth dagger's taint. He develops a fatalistic outlook, believing he's doomed (Chapter 32), yet paradoxically, his luck seems to grow. This internal struggle between the dagger's corruption and his inherent good nature creates a complex character who is both a victim and a reluctant agent of fate.
- Perrin's Struggle with Inner Beast and Violence: Perrin's wolfbrother abilities force him to confront his own capacity for violence and his animalistic instincts. He actively resists this part of himself, fearing the loss of his humanity and the harm he might inflict (Chapter 14). His internal conflict is a struggle for self-control and a desire to remain gentle, even as his strength and senses are heightened, making him a deeply conflicted figure.
What are the major emotional turning points?
- Rand's Portal Stone Visions: The experience of living "a hundred lives" through the Portal Stone (Chapter 37) is a devastating emotional turning point for Rand. It forces him to confront countless alternate destinies, including those where he succumbs to madness or is gentled, solidifying his resolve to fight his fate while simultaneously deepening his fear and sense of isolation.
- Nynaeve's Accepted Test and Lan's Love: Nynaeve's harrowing journey through the ter'angreal (Chapter 23) forces her to confront her deepest fears, including a future where she is Queen of Malkier and married to Lan. Her choice to abandon this idyllic future for her duty, coupled with Lan's unspoken declaration of love, is a powerful emotional climax that defines her commitment and the depth of their bond.
- Egwene's Capture and the A'dam: Egwene's enslavement by the Seanchan and her experience with the a'dam (Chapter 40, 42) is a brutal emotional turning point. It shatters her innocence, hardens her resolve, and instills a deep hatred for her captors. This trauma transforms her from a naive village girl into a fierce, determined woman, willing to use the Power in ways she once abhorred to fight for freedom.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
- Rand's Isolation from His Friends: Rand's growing awareness of his identity as the Dragon Reborn and his channeling abilities creates a chasm between him and his friends, Mat and Perrin. His attempts to push them away for their safety (Chapter 3, 11) are met with confusion and hurt, highlighting his increasing isolation and the burden of his secret, even as their loyalty remains.
- Nynaeve and Lan's Deepening Unspoken Bond: Despite their initial prickly interactions, Nynaeve and Lan's relationship evolves into a profound, unspoken love. Lan's gift of his signet ring (Chapter 7) and Nynaeve's vision during her Accepted test (Chapter 23) confirm their deep connection, showing a bond that transcends words and societal expectations, rooted in mutual respect and fierce loyalty.
- Egwene's Transformation and Shifting Affections: Egwene's relationship with Rand, once a childhood certainty, becomes complicated by her path to the White Tower and his destiny. Her capture by the Seanchan and subsequent rescue by Nynaeve, Elayne, and Min (Chapter 42) forge new, powerful bonds of sisterhood, shifting her focus and affections, and setting her on a path independent of Rand's.
Interpretation & Debate
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
- The True Nature of Ba'alzamon: While presented as the Dark One, Ba'alzamon's appearances and abilities (e.g., his burned face, his taunts of "Lews Therin") strongly suggest he is Ishamael, the most powerful of the Forsaken, who was only partially sealed away. This ambiguity leaves readers to debate whether Rand is truly fighting the Dark One directly or a powerful proxy, and what implications this has for the ultimate confrontation.
- The Reality of the Portal Stone Worlds: The nature of the "Worlds That Might
Synopsis & Basic Details
What is The Great Hunt about?
- A Prophecy Unveiled: The Great Hunt follows Rand al'Thor, a young man from the Two Rivers, as he grapples with the shocking revelation that he is the Dragon Reborn, a figure prophesied to either save or shatter the world. His journey begins with the theft of the legendary Horn of Valere, an artifact capable of summoning heroes from the past, setting him and his friends on a desperate quest.
- A World in Turmoil: The narrative plunges readers into a world teetering on the brink of the Last Battle, where ancient evils stir, new invaders (the Seanchan) emerge, and political intrigues (The Great Game) threaten to unravel nations. Rand, Mat, and Perrin, unknowingly ta'veren, find their lives inextricably woven into the Pattern, forcing them to confront their destinies amidst escalating chaos.
- Quest for a Legendary Artifact: The core plot revolves around the pursuit of the stolen Horn of Valere, leading Rand and his companions through treacherous landscapes, alternate realities via Portal Stones, and into the heart of Seanchan-occupied Falme, culminating in a dramatic confrontation that publicly reveals Rand's identity and summons legendary heroes to battle.
Why should I read The Great Hunt?
- Deepening World-Building: Robert Jordan significantly expands the intricate world of The Wheel of Time, introducing new cultures like the Seanchan and Aiel, exploring the mysterious Ways and Portal Stones, and delving into the complex political landscape of Cairhien. This book moves beyond the initial setup to truly immerse readers in the vastness of the Third Age.
- Intense Character Development: Readers witness profound psychological and emotional growth in the main characters, particularly Rand's struggle with his identity and the One Power, Mat's battle with a cursed dagger and his burgeoning luck, and Perrin's wrestling with his wolfbrother nature. Their internal conflicts are as compelling as the external threats.
- Epic Fantasy Action & Intrigue: The novel delivers on its promise of adventure, featuring thrilling chases, deadly encounters with Shadowspawn, intricate political maneuvering in Cairhien, and a climactic battle in Falme that reshapes the geopolitical map and fulfills ancient prophecies, making it a pivotal and action-packed installment.
What is the background of The Great Hunt?
- Post-Breaking World: The story is set in the Third Age, millennia after the Breaking of the World, a cataclysm caused by male Aes Sedai going mad from the Dark One's taint on saidin. This historical trauma underpins much of the world's fear and distrust of male channelers, directly impacting Rand's journey.
- Political Fragmentation & Ancient Prophecies: Nations are often at odds, like Tarabon and Arad Doman over Almoth Plain, or Cairhien embroiled in The Great Game. The White Tower, led by the Amyrlin Seat, struggles to maintain influence amidst the rise of false Dragons and the weakening seals on the Dark One's prison, all against the backdrop of the Karaethon Cycle, the prophecies foretelling the Dragon Reborn.
- Emergence of New Threats: Beyond the familiar Shadowspawn, the book introduces the Seanchan, an invading empire from across the Aryth Ocean, descendants of Artur Hawkwing's lost armies. Their unique culture, use of damane (leashed channelers), and monstrous beasts present a terrifying new dimension to the global conflict, adding urgency to the quest for the Horn of Valere.
What are the most memorable quotes in The Great Hunt?
- "The Wheel weaves as the Wheel wills.": This recurring phrase, often spoken by Moiraine and Verin, encapsulates the overarching theme of destiny versus free will, reminding characters and readers alike of the Pattern's inexorable influence on events and individuals, especially ta'veren.
- "Death is lighter than a feather, duty heavier than a mountain.": Uttered by Lan Mandragoran, this Malkieri saying defines the stoic, unwavering commitment to duty, particularly in the face of overwhelming odds. It profoundly impacts Rand, becoming a guiding principle in his acceptance of his destiny as the Dragon Reborn.
- "The grave is no bar to my call.": Inscribed on the Horn of Valere, this chilling yet hopeful line reveals the Horn's power to summon heroes from the dead, highlighting its immense significance in the Last Battle and the desperate stakes of
Review Summary
The Great Hunt is widely praised as an excellent sequel that improves upon the first book in the Wheel of Time series. Readers appreciate the expanded worldbuilding, character development, and intricate plot. Many find it more engaging and faster-paced than its predecessor. The book's epic conclusion is frequently highlighted as a standout feature. While some criticism is directed at repetitive phrases and occasional pacing issues, most reviewers express enthusiasm for continuing the series and consider it a stellar example of epic fantasy.
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