The Will of the Many

What is the importance of the “Synchronism” epilogue? What effect does it have on the meaning of the novel and its place as the first novel in a trilogy?

Vis argues that the Republic’s slogan, “Stronger Together,” is “hypocrisy.” Do you agree? Support your argument with textual evidence while taking into account other perspectives that the novel also presents.

The novel generally follows the pattern of the Roman Republic in world-building. Identify three elements that diverge from Roman history and analyze why Islington made these choices.

Comparing Vis to other heroes in high fantasy novels. To what extent does Vis fit the high fantasy archetype of the protagonist?

The novel offers many short and provocative aphorisms, such as “Hate is its own violence” (172), “Silence is a statement” (189), “and “Fair systems cannot exist where people are involved” (280), among many others. Choose at least two to compare/contrast. Discuss their meaning and how they relate to the larger themes of the novel.

The novel offers various conflicting philosophies on the nature of violence, resistance, and complicity. Which theory do you find most logical or compelling, and why? Explain with examples from the text.

Vis is tangled in the schemes and conspiracies of four major characters: Ulciscor, Estevan, Relucia, and Veridius. Compare and contrast these characters’ philosophies and methods.

Consider the novel’s female characters. Do you think that the novel’s characterization of women adheres non-critically to the model of Roman patriarchy, or do you think it challenges it?