Eldest

How does Eragon and Saphira’s bond evolve? What dilemmas do they solve together, and what issues remain unresolved? How does their relationship parallel their own individual emotional journeys? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.

Throughout the story, Christopher Paolini makes frequent references to Alagaësia’s history and cultural legacy in order to enhance the narrative world. How do these historical factors influence Eragon’s journey? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.

How does Roran evolve over the course of the story, and what narrative techniques and concrete details does Paolini use to convey a sense of the character’s inner transformation?

Aside from Eragon and Roran, what other characters illustrate The Complexities of Power and Morality? What deeper philosophical messages does Paolini embed within the novel?

How does Elva serve as both a symbol and a proper character in her own right? How do the circumstances of her curse impact the narrative?

How does Eragon’s arc reflect and/or challenge the typical structure of the Hero’s Journey, especially as it is used in contemporary fantasy?

Compare and contrast Oromis with Angela. How does each character meet (or subvert) the archetypal figure of the wise mentor?

How does Paolini use Eragon’s journey to convey The Importance of Empathy? What missteps does the protagonist make, and how does he learn from these moments?