Wrought of Silver and Ravens of Magic Made: Unraveling the Symbolism and Allusions in Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse

In Leigh Bardugo's enchanting Grishaverse, symbolism and allusions dance together, enriching the narrative with layers of meaning and depth. Two prominent motifs that permeate this fantastical world are silver and ravens, each carrying significant symbolism that shapes the characters' journeys and the destiny of the realm.

Silver: A Multifaceted Symbol of Purity and Protection

Wrought of Silver and Ravens (Of Magic Made Book 1)

by E.J. Kitchens

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3990 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	518 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

From the intricate filigree of jewelry to the gleaming weapons of Grisha warriors, silver holds a multifaceted symbolism in the Grishaverse:

• Purity and Innocence: Silver is associated with purity and innocence, representing the untainted, idealistic nature of certain characters. Alina Starkov, the Sun Summoner, is often depicted adorned with silver to emphasize her virtuous nature and her role as a beacon of hope.
• Protection and Warding: Throughout history, silver has been believed to possess protective powers. In the Grishaverse, silver weapons are used to ward off evil spirits and creatures. The Grisha utilize silver thread in their keftas to protect themselves from dark magic.
• Wealth and Status: In the Grishaverse, silver also signifies wealth and status. The members of the wealthy and influential Lantsov family are known for their opulent silver adornments.

Ravens: Messengers of Wisdom and Magic

With their enigmatic black plumage and haunting calls, ravens are deeply woven into the fabric of the Grishaverse:

• Wisdom and Insight: Ravens are associated with wisdom and insight, often serving as messengers or guides for the characters. The Darkling, a powerful Grisha, summons ravens to deliver messages and gather information.
• Mystery and Prophecy: Ravens are often connected to the unknown and the supernatural. They appear in dreams and visions, hinting at secrets and future events. Their presence can foreshadow both danger and opportunity.
• Magic and Power: In the Grishaverse, ravens are also associated with magic and power. The Bone Saints, a group of Grisha sorcerers, utilize raven bones in their rituals and spells.

Silver and Ravens Intertwined: Shaping the Characters' Destiny

In the Grishaverse, the symbolism of silver and ravens is not isolated but rather intertwined, shaping the characters' destinies and the fate of the realm:

• Alina Starkov: As the Sun Summoner, Alina is both protected by silver (her Grisha kefta) and connected to ravens (her ability to summon light). Her journey is a balancing act between her pure nature and the dark forces she must confront.
• The Darkling: The Darkling manipulates both silver and ravens to further his own ambitions. He wears a silver kefta to conceal his true nature and summons ravens to intimidate and control others.
• The Fold and the Unseen World: The Fold, a barrier of darkness that divides Ravka, is associated with ravens and the unseen world. Silver is used to protect against its dangers, highlighting the struggle between good and evil.

Allusions to History and Mythology

Bardugo's use of silver and ravens draws upon a rich tapestry of historical and mythological allusions:

• Silver in Folklore: In various cultures, silver has been associated with purity, protection, and the moon. These beliefs are reflected in the Grishaverse's symbolism.
• Ravens in Norse Mythology: In Norse mythology, ravens were Huginn and Muninn, the messengers of the god Odin. Their presence in the Grishaverse echoes these ancient stories.
• The Raven King: The Darkling's title as the Raven King draws inspiration from Celtic mythology, where the Raven King is a powerful and enigmatic figure often associated with darkness and mystery.

In Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse, the symbolism of silver and ravens weaves a intricate tapestry of meaning, shaping the characters' journeys and the destiny of the realm. By drawing upon historical and mythological allusions, Bardugo enriches the narrative with layers of depth and resonance. Through these symbols, she explores the eternal themes of purity and protection, wisdom and mystery, and the delicate balance between good and evil.

As readers immerse themselves in the Grishaverse, they not only witness the adventures of compelling characters but also delve into a world where every detail holds significance. The symbolism of silver and ravens guides them along this journey, offering insights into the characters' complexities and the overarching tapestry of destiny.

Wrought of Silver and Ravens (Of Magic Made Book 1)

by E.J. Kitchens

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3990 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	518 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE