The Eye of the World

How are men portrayed in the novel? Are they typical heroes? How does the book see masculinity?

How are women portrayed? How are they similar and different to the male characters? What constitutes femininity?

How are gender relations presented? How does language play a role in defining gender? Do you find any gender bias in the novel?

What are the roles of magic and religion in the book? What elements parallel religious systems in the real world? What is the book’s attitude toward religion and magic users?

There are many stories within the narrative. The book itself is inspired by a number of existing myths and legends, as well as various cultural symbols. What is the role of storytelling and stories in the book? How are stories and reality connected, both within the novel and in the real world?

There are a number of nonhuman beings introduced in the book. Can you recognize what sources inspired them? What is the role of the nonhuman? Can you identify any environmental concerns or themes?

Do you think this book reads as a feminist text? What about as a post- or anti-colonial one?

How are antagonists portrayed? Are their motivations for following the Dark One presented convincingly?