Summary
Eldest, the second instalment in Christopher Paolini’s Inheritance Cycle, continues the thrilling journey of Eragon and his dragon Saphira. Following the events of Eragon, the story begins with the aftermath of a devastating ambush that claims the life of Ajihad, leader of the rebel Varden. His daughter Nasuada assumes command and decides to relocate the Varden to Surda to openly oppose the Empire.
Eragon and Saphira embark on a journey to the elven forest of Du Weldenvarden for intensive training as Dragon and Rider. Under the tutelage of Oromis and Glaedr, the last surviving Dragon Rider pair, Eragon delves into the intricacies of magic, combat and scholarship. However, he grapples with debilitating seizures from a previous injury and his growing feelings for the elf Arya.
Meanwhile, Eragon’s cousin Roran emerges as a central figure, leading the villagers of Carvahall on a perilous journey to join the Varden after their home is threatened by the Empire. His storyline provides a parallel narrative of leadership and determination.
As Eragon’s training progresses, he undergoes a transformative experience during the Agaetí Blödhren ceremony, emerging as an elf-human hybrid with enhanced abilities and a healed back. Despite his personal growth, Eragon faces rejection when he confesses his feelings to Arya.
The story culminates in an epic battle on the Burning Plains, where the Varden confront the Empire’s forces. Eragon and Saphira return to aid their allies, armed with new skills and a magical sword named Brisingr. The battle is fierce, with heavy losses on both sides, but the Varden ultimately prevail.
In a shocking twist, Eragon confronts Murtagh, now a Rider himself, bonded to the dragon Thorn and serving the Empire against his will. The revelation of their true relationship as half-brothers and Murtagh’s superior magical abilities due to his knowledge of the ancient language’s true name forces Eragon and Saphira to retreat.
Eldest expands the world of Alagaësia, delving deeper into its politics, magic and diverse races. It explores themes of power, responsibility and the complexities of good and evil. The novel sets the stage for further conflicts and revelations in the subsequent books of the series.
Key themes:
- Coming of age and personal growth
- The burden of power and responsibility
- Loyalty and betrayal
- The nature of good and evil
- The importance of knowledge and education
- Family bonds and their complications
Character Details
Eragon
Eragon, the protagonist, is a young Dragon Rider who continues to grow into his role as a hero and leader. Initially a farm boy from Carvahall, Eragon’s life was forever changed when he bonded with the dragon Saphira. In Eldest, we see Eragon’s character develop significantly as he undergoes rigorous training with the elves.
Eragon is characterised by his determination, compassion and a strong sense of justice. He struggles with the weight of his responsibilities and the rapid changes in his life. His journey is not just physical but also emotional and intellectual, as he grapples with complex moral decisions and the implications of his growing power.
Throughout the book, Eragon’s relationships evolve, particularly his bond with Saphira and his unrequited feelings for Arya. His transformation during the Agaetí Blödhren ceremony marks a significant turning point, enhancing his abilities and altering his appearance to be more elf-like. Despite these changes, Eragon maintains his human perspective, which often sets him apart from his elven teachers and peers.
Saphira
Saphira, Eragon’s dragon and closest companion, is a central character in her own right. Intelligent, proud and fiercely loyal, Saphira’s bond with Eragon forms the emotional core of the story. In Eldest, we see Saphira mature alongside Eragon, developing her own personality and opinions.
Saphira is often the voice of wisdom and reason for Eragon, offering guidance and support through their mental link. Her dragon perspective provides unique insights into the world of Alagaësia. Throughout the book, Saphira’s own journey of growth is explored, including her training with Glaedr and her complex feelings towards the older dragon.
Saphira’s character embodies strength, wisdom and a touch of vanity. Her interactions with Eragon showcase the depth of the Dragon Rider bond, while her conversations with other characters reveal her wit and sometimes intimidating presence.
Roran
Roran, Eragon’s cousin, emerges as a major character in Eldest. Initially a simple villager, Roran is thrust into a leadership role when the Empire threatens Carvahall. His storyline provides a parallel narrative to Eragon’s, showing a different kind of heroism and growth.
Roran is characterised by his determination, resourcefulness and unwavering loyalty to his people. Unlike Eragon, Roran doesn’t have magical abilities, relying instead on his wits, charisma and physical strength. His journey from a village farmer to a respected leader and warrior is one of the most compelling arcs in the book.
Throughout Eldest, Roran faces numerous challenges, including leading the villagers on a dangerous journey to Surda and battling against the Empire’s forces. His motivation is largely driven by his love for Katrina and his desire to protect his community, showcasing themes of love, duty and sacrifice.
Nasuada
Nasuada, daughter of Ajihad, takes on the mantle of leadership of the Varden following her father’s death. Her character represents the complexities of political leadership in a time of war. Nasuada is intelligent, strategic and deeply committed to the Varden’s cause.
Throughout Eldest, Nasuada faces numerous challenges as she works to unite diverse factions, manage resources and plan military strategies. Her leadership style is marked by a combination of diplomacy and bold decision-making, such as her move to relocate the Varden to Surda.
Nasuada’s character development in the book showcases her growth from a supportive figure to a formidable leader in her own right. Her interactions with various characters, including Eragon, reveal her ability to balance personal relationships with her duties as a leader.
Arya
Arya, the elven ambassador to the Varden, plays a significant role in Eldest. She is characterised by her wisdom, combat prowess and complex personality. As an elf, Arya is long-lived and possesses magical abilities, making her a formidable ally and mentor to Eragon.
In Eldest, we see more of Arya’s background and her role within elven society. Her relationship with Eragon becomes more complicated as he develops romantic feelings for her, which she gently but firmly rejects due to their age difference and the complexities of their respective roles.
Arya’s character embodies the mystery and allure of the elves while also showcasing the burdens of duty and the impact of past traumas. Her interactions with Eragon and other characters provide insight into elven culture and the wider political landscape of Alagaësia.
Reader Fit
Eldest is perfect for readers who enjoy immersive fantasy worlds with complex political systems and magical elements. It’s particularly suited for young adults and older teens who appreciate coming-of-age stories set against epic backdrops. Fans of series like Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter will find familiar themes of friendship, growth and the struggle between good and evil.
The book will appeal to those who enjoy detailed world-building, as it expands significantly on the universe introduced in Eragon. Readers who like to explore themes of power, responsibility and moral complexity in their fantasy literature will find plenty to ponder in Eldest.
Additionally, those interested in character development and multiple intertwining plotlines will appreciate the depth given to various characters and the parallel stories of Eragon and Roran.
Quick Facts
- Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
- Publication Year: 2005
- Reading Time Estimate: Approximately 15-20 hours (720 pages)
- Notable Awards: None specifically for Eldest, but the series has won several awards
Related Books
- Eragon by Christopher Paolini (the first book in the Inheritance Cycle)
- The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
- The Ranger’s Apprentice series by John Flanagan
Buy the Book
Dive into the magical world of Alagaësia and continue Eragon and Saphira’s epic journey. Eldest offers a rich tapestry of adventure, growth, and fantasy that will keep you engrossed from start to finish. Don’t miss out on this thrilling instalment of the Inheritance Cycle – get your copy today and lose yourself in a world of dragons, magic, and destiny!
