WoT Character Analysis: Ishamael

Race: Forsaken

Sex: Male

Faction: Shadow

Rating: 8.4

Alignment: Lawful Evil

Arena Status: Active (S2)

Ishamael is a towering figure in the mythology of The Wheel of Time universe, both revered and reviled for his role as the Betrayer of Hope. As the most powerful of the Forsaken, Ishamael serves as the de facto leader of the Dark One’s followers during the War of Power and is eventually granted the title of Nae’blis, commanding all of the Shadow’s forces. His deep philosophical insight, immense power in the One Power, and complex motivations make him one of the series' most compelling and enigmatic antagonists.

Ishamael, One of the Forsaken

Pride and Prophecy: Annual Update 2024

Welcome to the inaugural annual update on the state of Pride and Prophecy. As we close out another exciting year, I want to reiterate the core vision for this platform. Pride and Prophecy is not about being the fastest or most extensively cited source of fantasy analysis. Instead, it occupies its own unique niche: exploring intergroup variations across fantasy universes while touching on overarching themes. My goal is for this site to serve as more than just a book club recommendation list. I want it to help you immerse yourself in new universes from the familiar vantage points of the ones you already love.

Another year in the books (almost)!

Elder Scrolls Character Analysis: Alduin

Race: Dragon

Sex: Male

Faction: Dragon Cult

Rating: 7.9

Alignment: Lawful Evil

Arena Status: Active (S2)

Alduin is a figure of immense significance in the Elder Scrolls universe. This ancient dragon stands at the intersection of mythology, apocalyptic prophecy, and existential terror. Worshipped as a god-king by the Dragon Cult during the Merethic Era, Alduin is both revered and feared for his dual role as a harbinger of destruction and a potential catalyst for cosmic renewal.

Alduin, the World Eater

Malazan Character Analysis: Vatha Urusander

Race: Tiste / Tiste Liosan

Sex: Male

Faction: High House Light / Urusander's Legion

Rating: 6.8

Alignment: Lawful Neutral

Arena Status: Active (S2)

Vatha Urusander is a pivotal figure in the history of the Tiste, one whose life and legacy straddle the realms of myth, politics, and philosophical inquiry. Known as the founder and commander of Urusander’s Legion, his story is one of conflicted ideals, reluctant leadership, and the enduring tension between principle and pragmatism. Yet, as much as Urusander’s personal narrative is marked by apparent tragedy, it is equally one of transformation, with the promise—or threat—of his evolution lingering over the events of The Kharkanas Trilogy.

Commander Vatha Urusander

Warcraft Character Analysis: Illidan Stormrage

Race: Night Elf

Transcendent: Demon Hunter

Sex: Male

Faction: Illidari

Rating: 8.4

Alignment: Chaotic Neutral

Arena Status: Active (S2)

Illidan Stormrage is one of the most iconic and polarizing figures in the Warcraft universe. First introduced in Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos, Illidan's narrative spans millennia, filled with dramatic betrayals, misunderstood motives, and redemptive sacrifices. As a pivotal figure in Azeroth's lore, Illidan is the twin brother of Malfurion Stormrage, the first druid, and an eternal rival for the affections of Tyrande Whisperwind.

Illidan Stormrage, The Betrayer