Race: Human (Malkieri)
Sex: Male
Faction: Aes Sedai
Overall Rating: 7.1
Alignment: Lawful Good
Arena Status: Active (S1)
Lan Mandragoran, one of the most compelling characters in Robert Jordan's epic "Wheel of Time" series, is a name synonymous with stoicism, loyalty, and unmatched martial prowess.
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| al'Lan Mandragoran by endave, Deviant Art |
Al'Lan Mandragoran, the uncrowned King of Malkier, is a man marked by tragedy. Born to lead a kingdom that fell to the Shadow when he was a child, Lan's story is deeply intertwined with a sense of loss and duty. His father's dying command was for Lan to wage a one-man war against the Shadow, a responsibility he bears heavily.
"Death is lighter than a feather. Duty, heavier than a mountain." - Lan Mandragoran (Book 6, "Lord of Chaos")
Lan is often described as a man with a face of stone and eyes that could pierce one's soul. He's a Warder, bonded to the Aes Sedai Moiraine Sedai, and the relationship between them is one of deep trust and mutual respect. Lan's combat abilities are legendary, making him one of the best swordsmen in the series.
His philosophy, shaped by the traditions of Malkieri warriors, has made him a figure of wisdom throughout the series. His teachings about combat, leadership, and life resonate with other main characters, including Rand al'Thor, the series' protagonist.
SPOILER WARNING: Plot details ahead.
Lan's relationships are complex and multifaceted. His bond with Moiraine is one of the defining aspects of his character, especially in the early books. Their shared mission to find the Dragon Reborn binds them together in a way few others can understand.
His relationship with Nynaeve al'Meara is one of the most poignant romantic subplots in the series. Starting as a reluctant attraction in "The Eye of the World," it evolves into a deep, passionate love. Their courtship is filled with tension, emotion, and profound understanding.
"You have made a place in my heart where I thought there was no room for anything else. You have made flowers grow where I cultivated dust and stones." - Lan Mandragoran (Book 5, "The Fires of Heaven")
Lan's character arc includes several pivotal moments. The Hunt for the Dragon Reborn: Lan's role in the search for the Dragon Reborn is vital, guiding Moiraine in their pursuit, and training Rand in swordplay. Throughout the series, Lan leads in various battles, embodying the principles of leadership and courage. SPOILER WARNING In the latter part of the series, Lan takes up the banner of Malkier, leading a heroic charge against the Shadow. His rallying cry to "Ride for Malkier!" becomes a significant moment in the series.
SPOILER WARNING Lan's story, intertwined with the fall and potential rise of Malkier and his changing relationship with those he loves, reaches a satisfying conclusion that reflects his growth, resilience, and unwavering sense of duty.
Lan Mandragoran's character is a rich tapestry of honor, strength, wisdom, and humanity. His journey is marked by personal struggles, triumphs, love, and the unwavering fulfillment of a duty that shapes not only his destiny but the fate of the world itself. From the wisdom he imparts to the battles he fights, Lan's presence in "The Wheel of Time" is a constant reminder of what it means to be a hero in the face of insurmountable odds. His story, like the mountain he often refers to in his philosophy, stands tall and firm, casting a shadow that looms large over the entire series.
Lan Mandragoran's Raw Power
In the realm of "Raw Power," Lan Mandragoran's attributes are primarily focused on his martial abilities rather than any magical prowess. Within the universe of "The Wheel of Time," magic plays a significant role, but Lan's talents lie elsewhere.
Standing as a formidable warrior, Lan's physical strength, skill with the blade, and the honing of his senses to a near-superhuman level make him one of the most fearsome fighters in the series. His style, following the sword forms, is described as poetry in motion, and his ability to anticipate and react to an opponent's movements is unparalleled.
"He moved like a cat, muscles flowing smoothly and economically under the skin of his arms, his eyes reflecting light like polished stones, their depths frozen." - "The Eye of the World"
Lan's combat abilities have been cultivated since childhood. Trained by some of the best swordmasters, his discipline and mastery of the sword are evident in every duel, skirmish, and battle he engages in. He's often the go-to instructor for other characters in the series, imparting wisdom and techniques that prove vital in their own growth.
Yet, when measured against characters across all of fantasy, especially those with innate magical abilities, elemental control, or god-like strength, Lan's raw power might seem limited. His abilities are rooted in the human realm, albeit at the peak of what a human warrior could achieve.
"I did not come to win. I came to kill you." - "A Memory of Light"
This beautiful yet grim determination is a testament to his power, not just in physical strength but in the mental fortitude that drives him to be the best. It's not about winning for Lan; it's about fulfilling his duty, even at the cost of his life.
In rating Lan Mandragoran's raw power on a scale of 1-10, when considering all of fantasy where characters might wield earth-shattering magical abilities or divine interventions, Lan's rating would be a 6.5. This score is an acknowledgment of his peak human abilities, his absolute mastery of the sword, and his tactical prowess in one-on-one combat scenarios. However, it also recognizes the limitation of his human nature in a broader context where supernatural powers often play a significant role. His raw power lies in the blade, his body, and his mind, honed to perfection but still bound to the realms of human capability.
Lan Mandragoran's Tactical Ability
Lan Mandragoran's "Tactical Ability" is a defining aspect of his character, evident in his approach to battles, duels, and leadership throughout "The Wheel of Time" series. As a seasoned warrior and the uncrowned king of Malkier, Lan's strategic thinking and planning capabilities are exemplary.
"The rose petal floats on water. The kingfisher flashes above the pond. Life and beauty swirl in the midst of death." - "New Spring"
This quote encapsulates Lan's philosophy, which goes beyond mere physical combat. It's about understanding the flow of battle, recognizing opportunities, and adapting to the situation. Lan is often portrayed as a master tactician, not only in personal combat but also in commanding troops and planning large-scale engagements.
His tactical prowess is honed through years of rigorous training and real-world experience. Lan's ability to read his opponents, anticipate their moves, and adapt his strategies accordingly is legendary. His calm demeanor in the face of conflict, coupled with his unwavering focus, allows him to execute his plans with precision.
"There is one rule, above all others, for being a man. Whatever comes, face it on your feet." - "The Eye of the World"
This mantra underlines Lan's approach to conflict. It's not just about winning; it's about facing challenges head-on, with a strategy in place and a determination to see it through.
In one-on-one duels, his tactical acumen shines brightly. He's capable of defeating opponents who might, at first glance, appear more powerful. This isn't just raw skill; it's a combination of understanding, preparation, and execution that sets Lan apart.
Comparing Lan's tactical ability to all fantasy characters across all universes presents a broad spectrum. Yet, within this context, Lan's tactical insight, adaptability, leadership, and execution place him at an 8 on the scale of 1-10.
His tactical ability is remarkable, transcending mere physical prowess to encompass an understanding of warfare that few can match. However, there are characters in other universes with magical insights or divine guidance that might have an edge. Lan's rating reflects a respect for his human limitations but also acknowledges that within those bounds, he excels as one of the greatest tacticians in fantasy literature.
Lan Mandragoran's Influence
Lan Mandragoran's influence within "The Wheel of Time" series demonstrates a unique blend of quiet authority, leadership, and charisma that sways those around him.
"A man who trusts everyone is a fool, and a man who trusts no one is a fool. We are all fools if we live long enough." - "Winter's Heart"
Lan's influence isn't expressed through flamboyant speeches or overt manipulation. Instead, it's his stoic presence, wisdom, and innate sense of honor that inspire loyalty and respect. As the uncrowned king of Malkier and a Warder to Moiraine Sedai, Lan's influence stretches across various cultures and social structures. His unwavering dedication to his responsibilities inspires those around him, making him a natural leader despite his often reserved demeanor.
Lan's ability to lead is seen most prominently in his training of Rand al'Thor and other young warriors, shaping them with wisdom and a finely honed sense of martial artistry. His influence goes beyond mere technique; he instills values, principles, and an understanding of the world that shapes the characters profoundly.
Despite his significant influence within his universe, comparing Lan to all fantasy characters across all universes puts him in context with beings of immense charisma, magical control over minds, or god-like influence. While his leadership and authority are formidable, they are grounded in human capabilities.
Therefore, Lan's influence is rated at a 7 on a scale of 1-10. His leadership, wisdom, and charisma are highly effective within his context, but they don't transcend to the level of magical or divine influence found in some other fantasy universes. Lan's strength lies in his ability to lead and inspire through personal integrity and a deep understanding of duty, rather than through sheer force of personality or supernatural means. His influence is subtle but profound, resonating with those who follow his path and live by his teachings.
Lan Mandragoran's Resilience
Lan Mandragoran, a central figure in Robert Jordan's "The Wheel of Time" series, embodies the trait of resilience to an extraordinary degree. His life is filled with setbacks, injuries, and personal defeats, but his ability to bounce back from these challenges is remarkable.
Lan is the last surviving member of the royal line of Malkier, a kingdom lost to the Shadow. From a young age, he has carried the weight of his fallen homeland, yet he never succumbs to despair. Instead, he becomes a symbol of strength, honor, and determination.
This quote illustrates Lan's unshakeable belief in the fight against the Shadow and his resilience to continue battling against overwhelming odds. He bears physical scars from countless battles but continues to fight without hesitation.
His ability to recover quickly from wounds, both physical and emotional, places him among the most resilient characters in his universe. His undying love for his land, his commitment to his duty as a Warder, and his unbreakable bond with his Aes Sedai, Moiraine, form a core of strength that allows him to face and overcome virtually any adversity.
However, in comparing Lan to all fantasy characters across all universes, it's important to note that some possess supernatural or magical abilities that enable them to recover or regenerate from injuries or defeats in ways that Lan cannot.
Thus, rating Lan's resilience on a scale of 1-10, considering all fantasy characters, yields a score of 7. Lan's resilience is profound, driven by a deep sense of duty, honor, and a warrior's spirit. His ability to overcome setbacks is exceptional within his context, yet does not quite reach the god-like or magical recoveries possible in some other fantasy realms. His resilience, both physical and emotional, stands as a testament to human endurance and determination, making him an enduring symbol of hope and perseverance in his world.
Lan Mandragoran's Versatility
Lan Mandragoran's versatility, as delineated within the character's arc in Robert Jordan's "The Wheel of Time" series, is an aspect that must be scrutinized through multiple lenses. Considering the definition of versatility - the ability to adapt to different situations or challenges and having a variety of powers or skills to draw upon - we observe Lan as a character who exhibits this trait in several respects.
Lan is a master swordsman and considered one of the best fighters in his universe. His skills with a blade are unparalleled, allowing him to adapt to various fighting scenarios. As a leader, he can inspire and rally troops, showcasing adaptability in different strategic situations. Lan's ability to survive in various terrains and situations speaks to his versatility. His knowledge of tracking, hunting, and surviving in the wild make him a resourceful character. Lan can be stoic and unyielding, yet also tender and compassionate, particularly with his wife, Nynaeve. As a Warder, Lan has enhanced physical abilities and a bond with his Aes Sedai, Moiraine. This bond offers unique advantages, such as sensing each other's emotions.
However, when juxtaposed with characters from other fantasy universes who may possess a wider range of magical abilities, shape-shifting powers, or supernatural versatility, Lan's versatility might seem somewhat constrained.
Therefore, on a scale of 1-10, Lan's versatility would be rated at a 7. His adaptability in combat, leadership, survival skills, emotional depth, and unique Warder abilities make him an adaptable and multifaceted character. Yet, he lacks the supernatural or magical elements that might elevate him to the highest tier of versatility across all fantasy universes. His range of skills is impressive within the context of his world but may be considered somewhat limited when compared to the broader spectrum of fantasy characters. His versatility is marked by a human touch, defined by his warrior spirit and personal growth, rather than otherworldly powers.
Lan Mandragoran's Alignment
Lan is the uncrowned King of Malkier, a nation that fell to the Shadow. He is a master swordsman, known for his stoicism, honor, and unbreakable will. As a Warder, he serves his Aes Sedai, Moiraine, with unwavering loyalty, and his bond with her amplifies his already formidable physical abilities. Lan's leadership, combat prowess, emotional depth, and survival skills are central to his character, making him a versatile figure in the series. His love story with Nynaeve highlights his ability to show compassion and tenderness, despite his often unyielding exterior. His journey is marked by a determined fight against the Shadow and an unyielding adherence to his principles and the codes of his fallen nation.
Lan's adherence to the codes of honor and duty that govern the Warders, as well as the traditions of Malkier, clearly define him as lawful. He abides by a strict code of conduct, even when it comes into conflict with his personal desires or emotions. His unwavering fight against the forces of the Shadow, his dedication to protecting others, and his self-sacrificing nature solidify his alignment as good. He stands for justice, integrity, and the welfare of others.
Lan's character, thus, can be described as a fusion of unyielding lawfulness and noble goodness. His actions are driven by a strong sense of right and duty, and he seeks to uphold these even in the face of immense personal and external challenges. Lan Mandragoran's alignment as Lawful Good adds a depth to his character that resonates throughout the series, making him a memorable and cherished figure in the world of fantasy literature. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated character alignment matrix across all planes of existence.
Lan's Trophy Case
PPET Rankings
| Season | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | #37 (of 107) |
Titles & Postseason Results
| Season | Result | All Time Occurence |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Bid (#10 Seed) | 1st |
Overall Conclusion on Lan Mandragoran and Position Across Planes of Existence
Lan Mandragoran, one of the core characters of "The Wheel of Time," stands as an emblem of human resilience, strength, honor, and skill. As we dissect the given categories to form an overall conclusion, his ranking at 7.1 on the universal scale warrants examination.
Lan's physical prowess and mastery in swordsmanship are remarkable. His Warder bond augments his abilities, granting enhanced strength and agility. However, he does not possess magical abilities or supernatural powers that are often seen in other fantasy characters, hence a ranking slightly above average.
Lan's strategic thinking and leadership in battle are exceptional. His experience and wisdom in warfare have allowed him to navigate through complex conflicts and emerge victorious.
Though not a charismatic leader in the traditional sense, Lan's unwavering sense of duty and honor have influenced those around him. His ability to command respect is evident but not as pronounced as others in the fantasy realm.
Lan's mental fortitude and determination define his resilience. His ability to face the harshest of circumstances without flinching, be it the fall of his kingdom or personal loss, demonstrates immense resilience.
Though highly skilled in swordplay and warfare, Lan's skill set does not extend into areas like magic or supernatural abilities. His versatility is thus somewhat limited in comparison to other fantasy characters.
The ranking of 7.1 for Lan Mandragoran is a reflection of his human boundaries. Despite his superhuman strength, resilience, and skill, Lan is not a character imbued with cosmic powers or otherworldly abilities. His distinction lies in his human virtues and an unwavering sense of duty, making him stand tall among mortals but not at par with the god-like beings found in other universes.
In the context of "The Wheel of Time," Lan's ranking fits perfectly, highlighting his position as a warrior and a leader of exceptional caliber but not overshadowing the universe's more potent magical beings.
His score of 7.1 reflects an above-average power level that honors his exceptional human traits without overstepping into the realm of the magical or divine. It's a tribute to a character who inspires not by transcending human limits but by exemplifying the pinnacle of human potential. 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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