Race: Human (Andoran)
Sex: Female
Faction: Aes Sedai
Overall Rating: 8.2
Alignment: Lawful Good
Arena Status: Active (S1)
The "Wheel of Time" series, penned by the eminent author Robert Jordan and later completed by Brandon Sanderson, paints a vast universe where destiny, magic, and politics intricately weave together. At its heart stands Egwene al'Vere, a young woman from the humble village of Emond's Field, whose journey is emblematic of growth, resilience, and power.
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| Egwene al'Vere, Amyrlin Seat |
Introduced in the first novel, "The Eye of the World", as one of the 'Emond's Field Five', Egwene begins her journey as an ambitious village girl with dreams of adventure beyond her quaint borders. Little does she know that she's bound for a destiny far grander than most can fathom. Bursting with potential, Egwene's raw ability in the One Power ensures her a place among the Aes Sedai, the series' storied female magic-users. Yet, her journey with the One Power is one of unique distinction, marked by a fast-tracked training due to the urgency of the Last Battle.
SPOILERS AHEAD:
As the narrative arcs across the series, Egwene's rise is meteoric. She rapidly transforms from a novice in the White Tower to the influential Amyrlin Seat, leader of the Aes Sedai. This is not a journey without its hardships. One notable point of adversity comes when Egwene, despite her rapidly growing power, is captured by the White Tower's faction loyal to Elaida. Stripped of her status and forced into the humble robes of a novice as punishment, Egwene faces this ordeal with a courage and determination that cements her as one of the series' most formidable characters. Within the very walls of her confinement, she starts planting the seeds of revolution, maneuvering politically and using her influence to challenge the status quo.
Moreover, one of Egwene's standout characteristics in the Aes Sedai world is her deliberate choice not to align with any specific Ajah. Ajahs are subgroups within the Aes Sedai, each with its own distinct values, goals, and colors. By not choosing a specific Ajah, she underscores her commitment to all Aes Sedai and to the unity of the White Tower. It's a bold move, fraught with political implications and a testament to her independent thinking and her vision for a unified Aes Sedai order.
The series beautifully encapsulates her journey of learning, right from her apprenticeship under the enigmatic Moiraine to her tutelage among the Aiel Wise Ones in the Waste. These experiences shape her, not just in terms of her raw power but also in her understanding of cultures, politics, and the deeper nuances of the One Power, especially Tel'aran'rhiod, the World of Dreams.
Egwene's role and importance in the narrative are so profound that her decisions, alliances, and even her personal conflicts have ripple effects, influencing major plot points and the fates of other characters. As the Last Battle looms, Egwene's strategic mind, leadership skills, and sheer strength play a pivotal role in the forces of light standing against the shadow.
Drawing from direct passages like, "You have made weapons of the Aes Sedai. But which hand holds the sword, and which the sheath? Is the hand that wields the weapon not the hand that rules the world?" it becomes apparent just how integral Egwene's role is. Her story isn't just one of power but also of identity, politics, sacrifice, and the turbulent path of destiny.
To delve into the life of Egwene al'Vere is to explore a tapestry of ambition, power, resilience, and sacrifice against the vast and intricate backdrop of the "Wheel of Time" universe. Her story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a young woman who dared to challenge the very stars.
Egwene's Raw Power
The "Wheel of Time" universe introduces us to a plethora of characters, each wielding the One Power to varying degrees. Among them, Egwene al'Vere stands as a veritable force, encapsulating the essence of raw power as defined above.
Egwene's initial days in Emond's Field gave no hint to her latent potential. Yet, as the series unfurls, her innate ability to channel the One Power catapults her to prominence. One poignant reflection of this is when she faces off against the Forsaken, proving her mettle by holding her own, and even besting some of them.
Her strength becomes especially evident in her manipulation of Tel'aran'rhiod, the World of Dreams. Here, she doesn't merely enter as a passive participant; she bends the dream world to her will, showcasing both her raw strength and her mastery over it. The intricacies of this world, boundless and perilous, are navigated by Egwene with a prowess that few can match. In her own words, "Dreams are a reflection of our deepest desires and fears. By confronting them, we confront ourselves."
Comparing her raw power with characters across multiple fantasy universes is a vast endeavor, but within the "Wheel of Time" universe, she's undeniably among the top-tier channelers. While characters like Rand al'Thor (the Dragon Reborn) surpass her in sheer force, Egwene's power is further magnified by her ingenuity and adaptability.
Given the expansive nature of fantasy literature and the myriad characters with varying abilities, Egwene is given an 8.5 for raw power, a half point increase from the previous rating which acknowledges her remarkable growth throughout the series, especially her climactic feats during the Last Battle, and positions her slightly above many but still below omnipotent beings that exist in other universes.
As the narrative eloquently states, "The Wheel weaves as the Wheel wills," and in Egwene's case, it wove a tapestry of immense power and potential.
Egwene's Tactical Ability
Egwene al'Vere's journey isn't just one of power but of profound tactical growth. She evolved from a village girl, innocent of the greater world's intricacies, to a pivotal player in the universe's most critical events, often outmaneuvering her adversaries with her sharp tactical acumen.
One of her most significant tactical feats was her tenure as the Amyrlin Seat. This wasn't merely a title; it required navigating the complex and often treacherous politics of the White Tower, especially during a schism. Egwene's ability to strategize became evident when she managed to unify the fractured Aes Sedai. Recall her words: "The White Tower will be whole again, except for remnants cast out and scorned, whole and stronger than ever." This wasn't just prophecy; it was her tactical vision.
Additionally, her time as a captive was not one of passive submission. Instead, Egwene utilized it as a tactical opportunity, sowing seeds of doubt and resistance within the Tower, ensuring that when the moment came, the fortress of Aes Sedai tradition would be ripe for her influence.
Given the breadth and depth of her tactical maneuvers throughout the series, especially when juxtaposed against the grand tapestry of fantasy literature, Egwene receives a 7.5 out of 10. This is slightly lower from the original 8, but recognizes her continual growth, culminating in her astute strategies during the Last Battle and her ability to consolidate power in fractured times.
In the words of the Aes Sedai: "The Flame and the Void." For Egwene, this wasn't just a meditation technique but an embodiment of her tactical prowess: a flame that illuminated her path and a void that kept her unyielding against challenges.
Egwene's Influence
Egwene al'Vere's evolution is not solely characterized by power or tactical finesse. An integral aspect of her journey is the growing sphere of her influence. From a humble Two Rivers girl to the Amyrlin Seat, the very symbol of Aes Sedai authority, her rise was meteoric, yet woven with threads of charisma, leadership, and determination.
Perhaps one of the clearest exhibitions of her influential prowess can be seen in her time as a novice in the White Tower, when she faced opposition from those who sought to diminish her. Moreover, her influential power extends beyond mere words. When the White Tower faced a schism, it was her unyielding resolve and the respect she commanded that brought it back from the brink. Many Aes Sedai, even those initially doubtful, eventually saw her as the fulcrum upon which the Tower would find its balance.
Considering the vast spectrum of influential figures across fantasy literature, Egwene's influence is slightly readjusted from an 8.5 to an 8. She is a pillar of strength in the "Wheel of Time" universe, but when juxtaposed with other titans of influence from different worlds, she maintains her commendable position without overshadowing them.
In the end, it's not just about how Egwene wielded her influence but the indelible mark she left: "To stand against the Shadow so long as iron is hard and stone abides. To defend the Malkieri while one drop of blood remains..." Her influence reverberates, a legacy in a world shaped by legends.
Egwene's Resilience
Egwene al'Vere's journey within the "Wheel of Time" series is a tapestry woven from threads of challenges, and her resilience is the underlying fabric that holds these threads together. From the very start, in Emond's Field, Egwene showed an uncanny ability to adapt and endure, evident when she decided to leave her home with Moiraine, setting forth on a journey filled with uncertainty.
But it was her time in the Aiel Waste, among the Wise Ones, that truly refined her mettle. Trained rigorously, faced with visions in the dream world, she learned to navigate a realm where the line between reality and dreams blurred. "The Wheel weaves as the Wheel wills," she often quoted, showcasing her acceptance and adaptability.
Yet, her most striking demonstration of resilience was her capture and humiliation by Elaida's faction of the White Tower. Reduced to a novice, subjected to penances, she never allowed her spirit to be crushed. Instead, she sowed seeds of discord within, using her very position to challenge the status quo. With calm and grace, she stated, "I will stand for what I believe." A testament to her unyielding spirit.
While the previous rating was an 8, considering the depth and variety of challenges Egwene faced and overcame, her rating could, and should, be adjusted higher. After reconsideration, a rating of 9 seems fitting. Egwene is an embodiment of the resilience innate within the human spirit, shining even in the face of overwhelming darkness.
Egwene's Versatility
Egwene al'Vere's odyssey is a testament to her evolving, multifaceted abilities. From a determined girl in Emond’s Field to the Amyrlin Seat, she is an epitome of versatility, adapting to the myriad roles and challenges thrust upon her.
In her journey, Egwene has worn many hats. She embraced the customs of the Aiel as an apprentice to the Wise Ones, where she demonstrated a profound understanding of Tel'aran'rhiod, the World of Dreams. "Dreams have a life of their own,” she mused. Her ability to navigate and manipulate the intricacies of this realm highlighted her adaptability to new magical skills. Moreover, she took these learnings and further honed them amongst the Aes Sedai, merging two worlds' teachings.
Egwene's tenure as a novice and then as the Amyrlin of the rebel Aes Sedai demonstrated her adaptability in leadership roles. She wasn't pigeonholed by her powers or title; instead, she exemplified the Aes Sedai mantra, "The Flame and the Void," representing the duality and range of her abilities and roles.
All in all, Egwene's initial rating of 8 in versatility remains in tact. This score illuminates Egwene's undeniable adaptability and breadth of skills, while also acknowledging the vast tapestry of versatile characters in the annals of fantasy literature.
Egwene's Alignment
Egwene's journey depicts her as someone who respects traditions and rules but isn't averse to bending or reforming them when necessary. Early in the series, she adheres to the customs of the Two Rivers and, later, the Aiel's traditions during her time among them. As the series progresses, and she takes on the mantle of the Amyrlin Seat, Egwene demonstrates a clear penchant for reestablishing and reinforcing the rules of the Aes Sedai, albeit with necessary reforms. She doesn't act out of sheer rebellion but uses a structured approach to bring change. Yet, her willingness to challenge established norms when they're outdated or corrupt leans her slightly away from a strict lawful stance.
Egwene's moral compass consistently points towards the greater good. Whether she's supporting Rand al'Thor, the Dragon Reborn, in his quest, leading the rebel Aes Sedai against Elaida's tyrannical rule, or uniting factions against the Shadow, her motives are always to preserve and protect the world from the Dark One. Her sacrifices, especially towards the end of the series, solidify her position as someone willing to give everything for the cause of good. While she makes tough decisions and faces moral dilemmas, her intentions remain pure, and her actions are for the benefit of the many over the few.
Egwene al'Vere is a paragon of leadership, resilience, and sacrifice in "The Wheel of Time." Her alignment reflects a character who respects tradition and structure but is willing to challenge or amend them for the greater good. Balancing duty with morality, her actions and decisions throughout the series exemplify a commitment to both order and righteousness, most accurately reflecting a Lawful Good alignment. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated character alignment matrix across all planes of existence.
Egwene al'Vere Arena Art
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| Egwene al'Vere visits Nagga's Hill on Old Wyk |
Egwene's Trophy Case
PPET Rankings
| Season | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | #23 (of 107) |
Titles & Postseason Results
| Season | Result | All Time Occurence |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Bid (#7 Seed) | 1st |
Overall Conclusion on Egwene al'Vere and Position Across Planes of Existence
In the expansive multiverse of fantasy literature, numerous characters stand as paragons of power, strategy, and influence. Egwene al'Vere is, without doubt, a significant beacon in this constellation. Her rating at 8.2 (up from an original 8.1) reflects a nuanced view, encompassing her growth, capabilities, and limitations.
Egwene's ascent to power isn't just about raw channeling prowess, but a combination of strategic acumen, a powerful innate ability with saidar, and a relentless drive. She learns from multiple cultures and traditions — from the Aiel Wise Ones to the rebel Aes Sedai — integrating their teachings into her repertoire. This adaptability, a facet of her versatility, allows her to respond to a plethora of challenges that would have stymied others.
However, measuring her across all fantasy universes brings into play beings of godlike power, ageless wisdom, or unmatched tactical genius. While Egwene has the might of a Dreamer and an Amyrlin, her experiences and capabilities are bound to her narrative's timeframe. Characters from other universes might have centuries or millennia of experience, or power that literally shapes worlds.
That said, few characters in fantasy literature demonstrate Egwene's resilience. Taken prisoner, reduced to the status of a novice, and subjected to grueling tests of her will, she remains unbowed. In the Last Battle, she showcases a devastating prowess, utilizing a weave thought lost. This act, a testament to her raw power, also underscores her determination to protect, even at the cost of her life.
Her influence is notable too. As a young Amyrlin, she not only unites a fractured White Tower but reforms it, laying down a foundation for future generations. Her leadership, often in the face of older and more experienced Aes Sedai, exemplifies her strength of character and her ability to inspire loyalty and respect.
An 8.2 rating, hence, is an acknowledgment of Egwene's unique blend of strengths, measured against an expansive backdrop of fantasy characters. While there are beings of immense, universe-altering power that might edge her out in raw strength, few can match her combination of power, strategy, resilience, and leadership.
In conclusion, Egwene al'Vere's narrative is a saga of growth, from a village girl with dreams bigger than the Two Rivers to an iconic leader in the annals of fantasy literature. Her 8.2 rating is a testament to her formidable presence, honoring her achievements while recognizing the vastness and diversity of power across the planes of fantasy existence. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated power ranking across all planes of existence. This will only be sortable on desktop viewing. The below table shows a summary within the same plane of existence of this article.
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