The Atlas Six

What effect does having multiple character points of view create? How would the narrative be different if it were told from a single perspective?

In Chapter 7, “Intent,” Callum argues that Tristan’s power developed as a reaction to his upbringing. How do the different characters’ medeian specialties contribute to their characterization? What do they reveal about their deeper motivations?

The Alexandrian Society and the Forum have opposite approaches to the best use for the archives. What are their respective goals and why? How does each group justify its ethical stance? Use evidence from the text to support your critique.

How does Nico and Libby’s relationship develop throughout the story? How does it impact the way their powers manifest? Use evidence from the text to support your arguments.

How are magical creatures depicted as a social category in this magical realist world? Look, for example, at the treatment of Gideon as a nonhuman, Eilif’s marginalization, and cultural and academic attitudes toward creatures. Optionally, what social critique does Blake offer through those depictions?

Pick one or two characters and examine their relationship to power. For example, what type(s) of power do they have (e.g., magical, social, institutional, etc.)? Does their power develop throughout the story? Do they resent and/or seek power? How does their relationship to their own (or others’) power influence their actions?

Examine how Tristan’s medeian “sight” develops throughout the story. What different types of “seeing” does he have access to? How does his ability impact his role in the story? Use evidence from the text to support your arguments.

Analyze the tone and style of the narrative. What effect does it create for the reader? Use evidence from the text to support your arguments.