Literary Devices in The Way of Kings ✍️

Introduction

Welcome to the majestic world of The Way of Kings, the first epic volume of Brandon Sanderson’s The Stormlight Archive series! 📚✨ This book sets the stage for an intricate fantasy saga that has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers worldwide.

Contents

Brandon Sanderson, the mastermind behind this colossal work, is a name synonymous with high fantasy. Known for his intricate plotting, well-developed characters, and unique magic systems, Sanderson has become a towering figure in modern fantasy literature. Before taking on his own worlds, he was chosen to complete Robert Jordan’s famed The Wheel of Time series, cementing his place in the fantasy hall of fame.

The Way of Kings plunges readers into the storm-wracked world of Roshar, a land of ancient mysteries and relentless conflict, shaped by its unique ecology and the ever-present, destructive highstorms. The genre? It’s epic fantasy at its most ambitious, where magic, politics, and war intertwine in a struggle for power, survival, and meaning.

Dive into this journey where courage faces treachery, and destinies intertwine. Let’s embark on this adventure together! 🌌🗡️

Plot Summary

The Way of Kings weaves together multiple storylines set in the vast, tumultuous world of Roshar. Here’s a dive into the main events, meticulously organized for your understanding:

Exposition — The story introduces us to a world divided by war, where ancient weapons known as Shardblades and Shardplate bestow immense power upon their wielders. Amidst this backdrop, we meet our key players: Kaladin, a surgeon turned soldier turned slave; Shallan, a young woman plotting to steal a device to save her family; and Dalinar, a highprince haunted by visions of Roshar’s ancient past.

Rising Action — Kaladin, sold into slavery and forced to become a bridgeman, struggles to protect his crew from certain death. Shallan maneuvers her way into the tutelage of Jasnah Kholin to execute her plan, only to be drawn into a deeper conspiracy. Dalinar, troubled by visions during highstorms, begins to question the war’s purpose, pushing for unity among the Alethi nobles against the Parshendi.

Climax — The story reaches its peak as Kaladin harnesses the power of Stormlight, transforming from a disillusioned slave into a leader and savior of his men. Meanwhile, Shallan’s discovery of her own abilities and the truth about the device she sought to steal shifts her path entirely. Dalinar’s realization of his own power and the true meaning of his visions prompts him to make a drastic decision regarding the kingdom’s future.

Falling Action — Kaladin’s newfound abilities and leadership bring hope to the oppressed bridgemen, leading to a daring escape and confrontation with their captors. Shallan confronts her own past and decides to embrace her powers, seeking to learn more under Jasnah’s guidance. Dalinar negotiates a controversial exchange to protect his people and unite the fractured Alethi nobility.

Resolution — The novel concludes with Kaladin swearing to protect those who cannot protect themselves, becoming the leader of the newly formed Knights Radiant. Shallan joins forces with Jasnah, prepared to delve deeper into the mysteries of the ancient past and her powers. Dalinar, having unified the Alethi highprinces under a single cause, prepares for the impending desolation he has been warned about, standing ready to face the unknown future.

Through these intertwined destinies, The Way of Kings sets the foundation for an epic tale of bravery, betrayal, and the search for wisdom and strength in a world teetering on the brink of destruction.

Character Analysis

In The Way of Kings, Brandon Sanderson presents a rich tapestry of characters, each with their unique backgrounds, motivations, and developments. Here’s a deep dive into the main characters of this epic narrative:

Kaladin — A skilled surgeon turned soldier turned slave, Kaladin is a man defined by his strong sense of honor and duty. Initially, his experiences lead him to despair and bitterness, but over time, he rediscovers his purpose and learns to harness the power of Stormlight, embodying the ideals of the Knights Radiant. His character arc is one of redemption, leadership, and the pursuit of justice.
Shallan Davar — Shallan starts as a desperate young woman, seeking to save her family from ruin by planning to steal a precious artifact from Jasnah Kholin. However, her journey reveals her deep intellectual curiosity and untapped magical abilities. Shallan’s growth is marked by her grappling with personal trauma, moral dilemmas, and the discovery of her own strength and identity.
Dalinar Kholin — A highprince of Alethkar and a formidable warrior, Dalinar is plagued by visions that lead him to question the endless war his people are embroiled in. His story is one of introspection, spiritual awakening, and a fervent desire to unite his people against the true threats to their world. Dalinar’s evolution from a traditional warlord to a visionary leader is central to the narrative’s themes of unity and redemption.
Adolin Kholin — Dalinar’s son, Adolin, is a charming and skilled duelist who struggles with the weight of his father’s legacy and expectations. While his path is less fraught with internal struggle than the others, his loyalty, sense of duty, and evolving relationship with his father and brother add depth to the familial and political dynamics of the story.
Jasnah Kholin — A scholar and the sister of the king, Jasnah is a woman of intellect and strong principles. Her skepticism of religion and dedication to uncovering the truth about the ancient past of Roshar drive much of the plot’s mystery and magical exploration. Her mentorship of Shallan serves as a catalyst for both of their developments.

Character Analysis Summary:

Character	Personality	Motivation	Development
Kaladin	Honor-bound, Protective	To protect those who cannot protect themselves	From despair to leadership and power
Shallan Davar	Intellectual, Artistic	To save her family	From desperation to empowerment
Dalinar Kholin	Visionary, Honorable	To unite Roshar	From warlord to spiritual leader
Adolin Kholin	Loyal, Courageous	To live up to his family’s legacy	Growth in understanding and depth
Jasnah Kholin	Rational, Strong-willed	To uncover the truth	From scholar to mentor and leader

These characters, with their deeply woven arcs and relationships, form the heart of The Way of Kings, each embodying different aspects of the human spirit and the complex world they inhabit.

Themes and Symbols

The Way of Kings is rich with themes and symbols that weave through its expansive narrative, each adding layers of depth and meaning to the story. Here’s an exploration of the major themes and symbols present in the book:

The Struggle for Power and Leadership — The quest for power, whether through political maneuvering, warfare, or control over magical artifacts, drives much of the conflict in the story. Leadership, on the other hand, is examined as a responsibility to unite and protect, contrasting starkly with the often destructive pursuit of power.
Honor and Integrity — Central to the novel is the concept of honor, particularly as embodied by the Knights Radiant. Characters grapple with questions of what it means to be honorable, how to act with integrity in a world rife with betrayal, and the importance of oaths and promises.
Sacrifice and Redemption — Many characters face moments of sacrifice, whether for personal gain, the protection of others, or the greater good. These moments often lead to redemption, as characters confront their past actions and seek to make amends.
The Nature of Courage — Courage is portrayed in various forms, from the battlefield bravery of soldiers to the intellectual boldness of scholars challenging societal norms. The story posits that true courage lies in facing one’s fears and standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
The Search for Identity and Purpose — Characters throughout the book embark on journeys of self-discovery, seeking to understand their place in the world and their true selves. This theme is closely tied to the idea of destiny and the roles individuals choose or are thrust into.

Symbols:

Shardblades and Shardplate — These ancient artifacts symbolize both the heights of power and the depths of humanity’s fall. They are coveted for the advantages they provide in battle but also represent the burdens of past sins and the ongoing struggle for redemption.
The Highstorms — The devastating storms that sweep across Roshar are a natural force but also symbolize change, destruction, and renewal. They are a reminder of the world’s harsh reality and the need for adaptation and resilience.
Spren — Manifestations of emotions, thoughts, or natural phenomena, spren are symbolic of the interconnectedness of all things in Roshar. They reflect the characters’ internal states and the world’s mystical nature, blurring the line between the physical and spiritual realms.
The Way of Kings (the in-world book) — This ancient text, from which the novel draws its title, serves as a moral guide for several key characters, especially Dalinar. It symbolizes the quest for wisdom, the importance of leadership grounded in compassion and integrity, and the possibility of societal transformation.

Through these themes and symbols, Brandon Sanderson crafts a complex narrative that explores the human condition, the nature of power, and the possibility of change, both personal and societal.

Style and Tone

Brandon Sanderson’s The Way of Kings showcases a distinctive writing style and tone that contribute significantly to the mood and atmosphere of the book. Here’s how these elements come together to create the immersive world of Roshar:

Epic Scope and Detailed World-Building — Sanderson is renowned for his ability to craft vast, intricate worlds, and The Way of Kings is no exception. The level of detail in the setting, history, cultures, and magic systems of Roshar provides a rich backdrop that is both immersive and believable. This comprehensive world-building establishes an epic tone that underscores the grandeur and gravity of the story’s themes and characters’ journeys.
Multiple Perspectives — The novel employs a multi-perspective narrative approach, allowing readers to see the story unfold from the viewpoints of several key characters. This technique not only adds depth to the narrative but also enables Sanderson to explore a wide range of themes and character developments, enhancing the emotional resonance and complexity of the plot.
Interludes — Between the main chapters, Sanderson includes interludes that offer glimpses into the lives of characters not central to the primary narrative or that explore distant parts of Roshar. These interludes contribute to the world’s depth and complexity, providing a broader understanding of the book’s setting and enriching the main story without detracting from its momentum.
Intricate Plotting — Sanderson is known for his meticulous plot construction, and The Way of Kings features an array of twists, revelations, and interconnected storylines that keep readers engaged and surprised. His ability to weave together multiple plot threads into a coherent and compelling narrative is a testament to his skill as a storyteller.
Philosophical Underpinnings — Throughout the novel, Sanderson incorporates philosophical questions and themes, inviting readers to ponder issues of morality, leadership, duty, and the nature of power. The thoughtful exploration of these themes adds a layer of depth to the story, encouraging readers to engage with the material on a more intellectual level.
Tone Shifts — While the overall tone of the book is epic and serious, given its themes of war, power, and survival, Sanderson skillfully incorporates moments of lightness, humor, and humanity. These moments of levity provide contrast and relief, making the characters more relatable and the narrative more nuanced.

Through his unique writing style and tone, Brandon Sanderson creates a compelling and immersive reading experience in The Way of Kings. His approach not only entertains but also invites reflection on profound themes, making the book a standout example of modern epic fantasy.

Literary Devices Used in The Way of Kings

Brandon Sanderson’s The Way of Kings is a masterclass in the use of literary devices that enhance storytelling, character development, and thematic depth. Here are the top 10 literary devices employed in the book:

Foreshadowing — Sanderson uses hints and clues early in the narrative to suggest future events and revelations. This technique builds suspense and prepares readers for significant developments, enriching the reading experience.
Imagery — Through vivid and detailed descriptions, Sanderson brings the world of Roshar to life. His use of imagery helps readers visualize the setting, characters, and magical phenomena, immersing them fully in the story.
Symbolism — Objects, characters, and events in the novel often symbolize broader themes and ideas. For example, Shardblades and Shardplate represent power and legacy, while the highstorms symbolize change and renewal.
Metaphor — Sanderson employs metaphors to draw comparisons that illuminate characters’ experiences and the story’s themes. This device enriches the narrative by adding layers of meaning to the text.
Allusion — References to history, mythology, and the wider cosmere (Sanderson’s interconnected universe) create a sense of depth and continuity in the world of Roshar, enhancing the lore and the reader’s engagement with the story.
Irony — The use of irony, particularly situational irony, underscores the unpredictability of fate and the often unexpected outcomes of characters’ actions, adding complexity to the narrative.
Juxtaposition — Sanderson places contrasting elements—characters, settings, ideas—side by side to highlight their differences and explore the novel’s thematic conflicts, such as the contrast between the pursuit of power and the quest for genuine leadership.
Flashback — Through flashbacks, the author reveals characters’ backstories and past events that have shaped the world of Roshar. This device deepens character development and provides context for current conflicts.
Parallelism — The novel features parallel plots and character arcs that mirror each other, highlighting themes of destiny, sacrifice, and redemption across different settings and perspectives.
Motif — Recurring elements, such as storms, light, and eyes, act as motifs that reinforce the book’s themes and symbolisms, creating a cohesive and resonant narrative structure.

Each of these literary devices plays a crucial role in crafting the rich, complex world of The Way of Kings, making it not only a compelling tale of adventure and intrigue but also a profound exploration of human nature and the struggle for meaning in a tumultuous world.

Literary Device Examples

For each of the top 10 literary devices identified in The Way of Kings, here are examples and explanations showcasing how Brandon Sanderson skillfully incorporates them into the narrative:

1. Foreshadowing

Example: Early mentions of the Desolation and the return of the Voidbringers hint at the broader conflict to come.
Explanation: These references prepare the reader for the overarching battle against ancient evils, setting the stage for future books in the series.

2. Imagery

Example: Descriptions of the Shattered Plains create a vivid picture of the barren, fractured landscape where much of the action takes place.
Explanation: This imagery not only sets the physical scene but also mirrors the fractured societies and lives of the characters.

3. Symbolism

Example: The Way of Kings (the in-world book) symbolizes wisdom, leadership, and the moral compass that guides several key characters.
Explanation: This symbol serves as a thematic anchor, influencing characters’ decisions and development throughout the story.

4. Metaphor

Example: Characters often refer to the highstorms as cleansing or destructive forces, serving as a metaphor for personal and societal change.
Explanation: This metaphor highlights the dual nature of adversity, capable of both destruction and renewal.

5. Allusion

Example: References to the Knights Radiant and their historical significance allude to lost ideals and the potential for their resurgence.
Explanation: These allusions deepen the lore of Roshar, suggesting a cyclical nature of history and heroism.

6. Irony

Example: Dalinar’s pursuit of peace and unity is initially seen as weakness or madness by his peers, yet it becomes his greatest strength.
Explanation: This situational irony underscores the theme that true strength often lies in non-conventional values.

7. Juxtaposition

Example: The stark contrast between Kaladin’s life as a surgeon and his forced role as a soldier highlights the themes of choice and destiny.
Explanation: This juxtaposition explores the conflict between individual aspirations and the harsh realities imposed by the world.

8. Flashback

Example: Kaladin’s flashbacks to his childhood and training with his father.
Explanation: These flashbacks provide crucial insight into Kaladin’s motivations, his sense of duty, and the origins of his disillusionment with authority.

9. Parallelism

Example: The parallel narratives of Kaladin and Shallan demonstrate different paths to power and self-discovery.
Explanation: This device highlights the diverse ways characters confront and overcome adversity, emphasizing the theme of personal growth.

10. Motif

Example: The recurring motif of light and darkness, often associated with Stormlight and the Voidbringers.
Explanation: This motif reinforces the overarching battle between good and evil, as well as the internal struggles of characters navigating their moral landscapes.

Through these examples, it becomes evident how Brandon Sanderson’s use of literary devices enriches the narrative of The Way of Kings, adding layers of meaning and enhancing the reader’s engagement with the story. Each device contributes to the intricate tapestry of the world Sanderson has created, making the novel not just a tale of fantasy but a work of deep thematic resonance.

The Way of Kings – FAQs

What is the main plot of The Way of Kings? The main plot revolves around several key characters in the world of Roshar, a land constantly ravaged by supernatural storms and on the brink of war. Kaladin, who evolves from a soldier to a slave to a leader; Shallan, who seeks to save her family through deception but finds a deeper purpose; and Dalinar, a highprince haunted by visions urging him to unite a fractured kingdom, are central to the unfolding epic that deals with themes of power, honor, and redemption.

Who are the Knights Radiant? The Knights Radiant were legendary warriors in the world of Roshar, bound by magical powers and oaths to protect humanity. They wielded powerful artifacts known as Shardblades and Shardplate and were assisted by spren, elemental beings of the world. Their order fell into legend and disarray, but the book hints at their possible return or rebirth through the characters’ journeys.

What are Shardblades and Shardplate? Shardblades and Shardplate are ancient and powerful armaments that play a pivotal role in the series. Shardblades are magical swords capable of cutting through almost anything with ease, except for living flesh, which they pass through, severing the soul. Shardplate is nearly indestructible armor that enhances the wearer’s strength and agility. Both are highly coveted and can dramatically shift the balance of power in the world of Roshar.

What is the significance of the highstorms? Highstorms are massive, devastating storms that sweep across Roshar, shaping its culture, geography, and ecology. They are a source of magical energy called Stormlight, which fuels the world’s magic systems. The highstorms’ significance goes beyond their physical impact, as they symbolize change, challenge, and the resilience of the characters and societies that inhabit Roshar.

How does Brandon Sanderson develop his characters? Brandon Sanderson develops his characters through extensive backstories, internal conflicts, and growth that occur in response to the challenges they face. Characters like Kaladin, Shallan, and Dalinar undergo significant development, each following a unique path that explores themes of duty, morality, and identity. Sanderson uses their personal journeys to reflect on broader societal issues, making his characters deeply relatable and complex.

What themes are explored in The Way of Kings? The novel explores a wide range of themes, including the quest for power and its consequences, the nature of leadership and honor, the journey towards self-discovery and redemption, and the conflict between personal desires and greater responsibilities. Sanderson weaves these themes into the fabric of the story, creating a rich narrative that encourages readers to reflect on these concepts in their own lives.

Can The Way of Kings be read as a standalone novel? While The Way of Kings does offer a complete and satisfying story arc on its own, it is the first book in The Stormlight Archive series, designed to be part of a larger narrative. Readers will find that the ending sets up future books, introducing new questions and challenges. To fully appreciate the depth and breadth of the story Sanderson is telling, it’s recommended to continue with the series.

These FAQs cover some of the most common questions readers might have about The Way of Kings.

Quiz

Below is a multiple-choice quiz designed to test comprehension of The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Each question highlights important plot points, characters, and themes from the book.

Question	A	B	C	D
Who is the author of the in-world book “The Way of Kings”?	Dalinar Kholin	Nohadon	Gavilar Kholin	Jasnah Kholin
What power does Kaladin discover he possesses?	Healing	Invisibility	Flying	Controlling storms
Which of the following characters is NOT a member of the Kholin family?	Adolin	Renarin	Sadeas	Jasnah
What are the Parshendi?	A type of spren	The original inhabitants of the Shattered Plains	A mercenary group	A highprince’s personal guard
What motivates Shallan to seek out Jasnah Kholin?	Desire to become a scholar	Need to steal a Soulcaster	Wish to learn sword fighting	Hope to find a husband
What is the primary setting of the novel?	The Frostlands	The Shattered Plains	Kharbranth	Alethkar
Which order of the Knights Radiant does Kaladin become associated with?	Windrunners	Lightweavers	Skybreakers	Dustbringers
What are highstorms?	Political upheavals	Magical storms that provide Stormlight	Battles between rival kingdoms	Celebrations in honor of the Radiants
What is a primary theme of the book?	The pursuit of knowledge	The corruption of power	The struggle for identity	All of the above
What artifact is Shallan trying to steal from Jasnah?	A Shardblade	A Soulcaster	A map of the Shattered Plains	An ancient tome

Answers:

B – Nohadon
A – Healing
C – Sadeas
B – The original inhabitants of the Shattered Plains
B – Need to steal a Soulcaster
B – The Shattered Plains
A – Windrunners
B – Magical storms that provide Stormlight
D – All of the above
B – A Soulcaster

This quiz offers a fun way to revisit key aspects of The Way of Kings and ensure readers have grasped the intricate details of Sanderson’s world. Next, we’ll move on to creating an exercise focusing on spotting literary devices in a paragraph from the book.

Exercise

This exercise is designed to help students identify and understand the use of literary devices in a passage from The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Below is a paragraph from the book, followed by a set of questions. Each question relates to a specific literary device present in the passage. After the questions, you’ll find the answers separated by a line.

Paragraph for Analysis:

In the dim light of the highstorm, Kaladin saw the silhouettes of the Parshendi, their marbled red-and-black skin almost glowing. The air vibrated with the fury of the storm, and yet, amidst the chaos, there was a strange sense of peace. It was as if the storm itself were alive, breathing and pulsing around him, a beast of raw, untamed power. Kaladin felt a connection to it, a resonance that went beyond mere physical sensation. It was as though he and the storm were one, bound by an invisible thread that linked their essences together.

Questions:

Identify the use of Imagery in the passage.
How does Personification enhance the description of the highstorm?
What Symbol can be inferred from Kaladin’s connection to the storm?
Where is Metaphor used to describe Kaladin’s experience?

Answers:

The description of the Parshendi’s skin and the vibrant portrayal of the storm’s impact create vivid images that allow readers to visualize the scene vividly.
The storm is given life-like qualities, described as “breathing and pulsing,” which enhances its significance and presence, making it seem more formidable and alive.
Kaladin’s connection to the storm symbolizes his emerging power and his role as a bridge between chaos and peace, reflecting his inner turmoil and potential for change.
The metaphor of being “bound by an invisible thread” illustrates the deep, intangible connection Kaladin feels with the storm, suggesting a shared essence or destiny.

This exercise aims to deepen understanding of literary devices and how they contribute to the richness of Sanderson’s storytelling in The Way of Kings.