"Goliath" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In the book "Goliath" by Scott Westerfeld, the main protagonists are Alek and Deryn. Alek is a young prince, while Deryn is a commoner who disguises herself as a boy to serve in the British Air Service. They both play central roles in the story and drive the narrative forward. Additionally, there are several supporting characters who contribute to the development of the plot and the main characters.

Character Descriptions

Alek

Alek is a courageous and determined young prince who finds himself caught in the middle of a war. He is described as having dark hair, a strong build, and a regal presence. Alek is intelligent and resourceful, using his knowledge of engineering and strategy to navigate dangerous situations. Despite his privileged upbringing, he is humble and caring, always seeking to do what is right.

Deryn

Deryn, initially disguised as a boy named Dylan, is a skilled airman in the British Air Service. She is adventurous, quick-witted, and fiercely loyal. Deryn has a slender build and a mischievous smile. She is passionate about flying and dreams of becoming a respected aviator. Deryn's determination and bravery are evident as she faces numerous challenges, balancing her secret identity and her desire to prove herself.

Dr. Nora Barlow

Dr. Nora Barlow is a renowned scientist and a member of a secret organization. She is kind-hearted and intelligent, with a strong sense of duty. Dr. Barlow is depicted as having gray hair and a thoughtful demeanor. She plays a crucial role in the story, providing valuable scientific knowledge and guidance to the main characters.

Count Volger

Count Volger is Alek's loyal advisor and protector. He is a middle-aged man with a stern expression and a military background. Count Volger is fiercely dedicated to Alek's safety and often takes on a fatherly role. He is highly skilled in combat and strategy, making him a valuable asset to the protagonists.

Captain Hobbes

Captain Hobbes is the commander of the British airship Leviathan. He is a seasoned officer with a weathered appearance and a no-nonsense attitude. Captain Hobbes is respected and admired by his crew, known for his strong leadership and tactical expertise. He provides guidance and support to Deryn throughout her journey.

Tesla

Tesla is a brilliant inventor and scientist who plays a significant role in the development of advanced technology. He is depicted as eccentric and enigmatic, with wild hair and a charismatic personality. Tesla's inventions, such as the Tesla cannon, have a profound impact on the outcome of the story.

Klopp

Klopp is a loyal member of Alek's retinue and serves as his personal engineer. He is described as short and stocky with a cheerful disposition. Klopp's mechanical skills are invaluable, as he helps maintain and repair the various machines used by the protagonists. He adds a touch of humor to the story and serves as a trusted friend to Alek.

Character Traits

Alek

• Courageous
• Intelligent
• Resourceful
• Humble
• Caring

Deryn

• Adventurous
• Quick-witted
• Loyal
• Determined
• Brave

Dr. Nora Barlow

• Kind-hearted
• Intelligent
• Thoughtful
• Dutiful

Count Volger

• Loyal
• Protective
• Skilled in combat and strategy
• Fatherly

Captain Hobbes

• Strong leadership
• Tactical expertise
• Respected by the crew

Tesla

• Brilliant inventor and scientist
• Eccentric
• Enigmatic
• Charismatic

Klopp

• Loyal
• Cheerful
• Skilled in mechanics
• Humorous

Character Background

Alek

Alek is the son of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Following the assassination of his parents, Alek becomes a target of political intrigue and must go into hiding. His background as a prince gives him a unique perspective on the war and the responsibilities that come with his position.

Deryn

Deryn comes from a humble background and is determined to prove herself as a capable airman. She disguises herself as a boy to join the British Air Service, facing the challenges of maintaining her secret identity while navigating the male-dominated world of aviation.

Dr. Nora Barlow

Dr. Nora Barlow is a respected scientist and a member of a secret organization dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge. Her background in research and exploration provides her with a wealth of knowledge and expertise that aids the main characters throughout their journey.

Count Volger

Count Volger has a military background and has served as Alek's advisor and protector since his birth. His loyalty to Alek stems from a deep sense of duty and a desire to safeguard the future of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Captain Hobbes

Captain Hobbes has a long history of service in the British Air Service and is known for his expertise in commanding airships. His background as a seasoned officer makes him a respected figure among his crew and a valuable mentor to Deryn.

Tesla

Tesla is a renowned inventor and scientist, known for his groundbreaking discoveries and inventions. His background in electrical engineering and physics gives him the knowledge and skills necessary to create advanced technology that influences the outcome of the story.

Klopp

Klopp's background as an engineer and mechanic makes him an essential member of Alek's retinue. His skills and expertise in maintaining and repairing machinery play a crucial role in the success of the protagonists' mission.

Character Arcs

Alek

Alek's character arc revolves around his journey from a sheltered prince to a brave leader. He starts the story as someone who seeks safety and shelter, but as the events unfold, he learns to take responsibility and make difficult decisions for the greater good. Alek's arc is marked by his growth in confidence, leadership, and his willingness to sacrifice for the cause.

Deryn

Deryn's character arc focuses on her struggle to maintain her secret identity while proving herself as a capable airman. Throughout the story, she faces numerous challenges and obstacles that test her loyalty, bravery, and determination. Deryn's arc is defined by her self-discovery, as she learns to accept herself and embrace her true identity.

Dr. Nora Barlow

Dr. Barlow's character arc centers around her role as a scientist and her journey to protect and advance scientific knowledge. She starts as a knowledgeable and dedicated scientist, but as the story progresses, she becomes more involved in the conflict and takes on a more active role in helping the protagonists. Dr. Barlow's arc highlights her growth as a character and her commitment to using her expertise for the greater good.

Count Volger

Count Volger's character arc revolves around his loyalty to Alek and his development as a father figure. He starts as a stern and protective advisor, but as the story unfolds, he becomes more emotionally invested in Alek's well-being. Count Volger's arc showcases his growth in understanding and his willingness to put his own life on the line for Alek's safety.

Captain Hobbes

Captain Hobbes' character arc focuses on his role as a leader and mentor to Deryn. He starts as a no-nonsense captain, but as the story progresses, he develops a deeper bond with Deryn and becomes more invested in her success. Captain Hobbes' arc highlights his growth as a character and his willingness to adapt to new circumstances.

Tesla

Tesla's character arc centers around his role as an inventor and his desire to use his creations for the betterment of society. He starts as an eccentric and enigmatic figure, but as the story unfolds, he becomes more involved in the conflict and uses his inventions to aid the protagonists. Tesla's arc highlights his growth as a character and his commitment to using his genius for the greater good.

Klopp

Klopp's character arc revolves around his role as a loyal friend and engineer. He starts as a cheerful and skilled mechanic, but as the story progresses, he becomes more emotionally connected to Alek and the cause. Klopp's arc showcases his growth in loyalty and his willingness to go above and beyond for his friends.

Relationships

Alek and Deryn

Alek and Deryn share a strong bond throughout the story, rooted in their shared experiences and mutual respect. They start as strangers but quickly develop a deep friendship and trust. Their relationship evolves from a partnership to a genuine connection, with hints of romantic feelings. Their interactions showcase their support for one another and their unwavering loyalty.

Alek and Dr. Nora Barlow

Alek and Dr. Barlow develop a mentor-student relationship as she guides him through the complexities of the conflict and the scientific world. Dr. Barlow's wisdom and knowledge provide Alek with valuable insights and advice, helping him navigate the challenges he faces.

Alek and Count Volger

Alek and Count Volger share a close and loyal relationship, with Count Volger serving as Alek's advisor and protector. Their relationship is characterized by trust and respect, with Count Volger guiding Alek through his journey and providing support in times of crisis.

Deryn and Captain Hobbes

Deryn and Captain Hobbes have a mentor-mentee relationship, with Captain Hobbes serving as her commanding officer and a source of guidance. Captain Hobbes recognizes Deryn's potential and encourages her to prove herself as a skilled airman. Their relationship is marked by mutual respect and a shared passion for flying.

Deryn and Klopp

Deryn and Klopp share a friendship based on trust and camaraderie. Klopp's mechanical skills and cheerful personality make him a valuable companion to Deryn, and their playful banter adds levity to the story. They support each other throughout their journey, relying on their shared experiences and loyalty.

The relationships between the characters in "Goliath" contribute to the overall development of the plot and the growth of the protagonists. The bonds they form and the challenges they face together shape the narrative and drive the story forward.