Dissecting Dragons: Episode 228: Identity Crisis - The Quest for Self Knowledge in Speculative Fiction

One quest all of will at some point take part in, is the quest for our own identities. Whether this is something consciously undertaken or subconsciously sought, the narrative of who we are as individuals is a human quest. It's not then surprising that a lot of fiction reflects this; the classic hero's journey is, at its core, the search for identity, for a place in the world. This week the dragons delve into just why this is such an appealing aspect to add to a narrative. What exactly is identity in narrative terms? How does it put pressure on a plot? And what are some of the best ways this trope is used? On the slab this week - Trickster's Choice by Tamora Pearce, The Traitor Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson, The Last Unicorn by Peter S Beagle and many more.

 

Title Music: Ecstasy by Smiling Cynic