Elantris

Analyze religious belief in the novel. What do different practices represent? What beliefs are shared, and what practices come in conflict? Does the novel support one set of beliefs over another? Why or why not?

Explore the various models of government that are practiced in the novel and discuss their benefits and drawbacks. Which model of government has the most success?

Compare and contrast the three protagonists’ qualities, beliefs, or purposes. Trace the transformation each character undergoes. Does the novel convey a message about character and the definition of what makes us human?

Why did Brandon Sanderson create a connection between the Aons and landscape of Arelon as well as the physical shape of Elantris? How does this way of accessing Dor compare with other ways of tapping this magic source? What does the Dor symbolize in Sycla?

Analyze the gendered expectations of women’s roles. How do these expectations impact Sarene in Teod and Arelon? Why does Sarene struggle and feel different?

Examine the role of families within the novel and discuss how their dynamics impact the action and themes. How do Sarene’s dealings with her family compare to Raoden’s conflicts with his father and affection for Roial? What other families do we see and how does the novel use them?

What is the role of the seons? Are they symbols or characters? You might wish to research seons on the Coppermind, the online wiki devoted to Brandon Sanderson’s works, to add to your analysis.

The challenge and success of fantasy novels often rests on their ability to fabricate convincing worlds that readers want to be a part of. Discuss how Brandon Sanderson builds the world of Elantris, including its geography, cultures, history, and the logic that governs the magical elements. How does Sanderson draw on real-world parallels? Are some elements of Sycla more persuasive than others? Why?