"In Other Lands" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

"In Other Lands" is a coming-of-age fantasy novel written by Sarah Rees Brennan. The story follows the journey of Elliot Schafer, a sarcastic and clever fourteen-year-old boy, who discovers a hidden world called the Borderlands. Elliot is thrust into a tumultuous world of diplomacy, war, and magical creatures. As the protagonist, Elliot's role is to navigate this new world, uncover its secrets, and grow into a more compassionate and understanding individual.

Character Descriptions

Elliot Schafer

Elliot Schafer is a young boy with unruly hair and a sharp tongue. He possesses a unique ability to see through people's facades and a talent for challenging authority. Elliot is described as tall for his age, with a disheveled appearance that reflects his rebellious nature. He is often seen wearing mismatched clothes and a perpetual smirk. Elliot's physical appearance mirrors his personality, as he is quick-witted, independent, and unafraid to speak his mind.

Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle

Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle, commonly referred to as Serene-Heart, is a member of the Borderlands community. Serene-Heart is described as having golden hair and a gentle demeanor. They possess the ability to communicate with magical creatures and act as a bridge between the Borderlands inhabitants and the humans. Serene-Heart becomes one of Elliot's closest friends and acts as a supportive and calming presence throughout his journey.

Luke Sunborn

Luke Sunborn is a fellow student at the Borderlands and becomes Elliot's love interest. He is described as having a strong and muscular build, with dark hair and a serious expression. Luke is known for his exceptional combat skills and his dedication to protecting the Borderlands. Despite his initial stoic demeanor, Luke slowly reveals a more vulnerable side as his relationship with Elliot deepens.

Serene-Heart's Family

Serene-Heart's family consists of their parents and siblings who live in the Borderlands. While not prominent characters, they serve as a representation of the Borderlands community and their values. Serene-Heart's family members are caring, wise, and deeply connected to the magical world they inhabit. They provide a sense of stability and support for Serene-Heart and act as a catalyst for their growth throughout the story.

The Borderlands Inhabitants

The Borderlands inhabitants are a diverse group of magical creatures and beings living in the hidden realm. They include elves, mermaids, trolls, and various other fantastical beings. Each creature has its unique characteristics and abilities, adding depth and richness to the world created by Sarah Rees Brennan. The Borderlands inhabitants play a crucial role in shaping Elliot's understanding of different cultures and challenging his preconceived notions.

The Alder

The Alder is the main antagonist of the story, a powerful and mysterious figure who rules over the Borderlands. The Alder's true intentions and motivations are initially shrouded in secrecy, making them a compelling and enigmatic character. As the story progresses, Elliot discovers the dark side of the Alder's rule, leading to a conflict that tests Elliot's courage and determination.

Character Traits

Elliot Schafer

• Sarcastic
• Clever
• Independent
• Rebellious
• Observant
• Empathetic (despite his initial facade)
• Quick-witted

Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle

• Gentle
• Wise
• Patient
• Diplomatic
• Open-minded
• Communicative
• Compassionate

Luke Sunborn

• Stoic
• Skilled in combat
• Protective
• Loyal
• Vulnerable (as his relationship with Elliot develops)
• Determined
• Courageous

Serene-Heart's Family

• Caring
• Wise
• Supportive
• Connected to their magical world
• Loving
• Resilient

The Borderlands Inhabitants

• Diverse
• Magical
• Unique characteristics and abilities
• Represent various cultures and perspectives
• Enrich the world-building of the story
• Challenge Elliot's assumptions and biases

The Alder

• Powerful
• Mysterious
• Manipulative
• Authoritarian
• Antagonistic
• Motivations initially unclear

Character Background

Elliot Schafer

Elliot Schafer is introduced as a fourteen-year-old boy who has grown up in a world that doesn't quite understand or accept him. He has experienced rejection and bullying due to his sharp tongue and unconventional behavior. Elliot's background is characterized by a longing for genuine connection and a desire to find his place in the world. When he discovers the Borderlands, it offers him a chance to escape the mundane and embrace his unique abilities.

Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle

Serene-Heart is a member of the Borderlands community, born into a family deeply connected to the magical realm. They have been raised with an understanding and appreciation for the diverse beings that inhabit the Borderlands. Serene-Heart's background provides them with the foundation to navigate the complexities of diplomacy and bridge the gap between the human and magical worlds.

Luke Sunborn

Luke Sunborn hails from a family of warriors who have dedicated their lives to protecting the Borderlands from external threats. His background instills in him a sense of duty and a commitment to defending his home. Luke's past experiences shape his stoic and serious demeanor, but as he forms a bond with Elliot, his vulnerability and desire for connection begin to emerge.

Serene-Heart's Family

Serene-Heart's family carries a long lineage of magical beings who have lived in the Borderlands for generations. Their background provides them with a deep understanding of the magical realm and the responsibilities that come with it. They serve as mentors and guides for Serene-Heart, offering wisdom and support as they navigate their own journey.

The Borderlands Inhabitants

The Borderlands inhabitants have diverse backgrounds, each connected to their respective magical species. Their histories and cultures are shaped by their unique abilities and the challenges they face within the Borderlands. Through their interactions with Elliot, they contribute to his growth by challenging his preconceptions and teaching him valuable lessons about acceptance and understanding.

The Alder

The Alder's background remains mysterious for much of the story. Their rule over the Borderlands is characterized by secrecy and manipulation, leaving the reader to question their motives and origins. As the story unfolds, the Alder's background is slowly revealed, shedding light on their oppressive rule and the impact it has on the inhabitants of the Borderlands.

Character Arcs

Elliot Schafer

Elliot's character arc in "In Other Lands" is one of self-discovery and personal growth. At the beginning of the story, Elliot is guarded and cynical, using sarcasm as a shield against the world. However, as he navigates the new realm of the Borderlands, he begins to question his assumptions and learns the value of empathy and genuine connection. Elliot's arc culminates in a transformative experience that challenges his beliefs and forces him to confront his own biases.

Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle

Serene-Heart's character arc revolves around their role as a bridge between the human and magical worlds. Initially, Serene-Heart is uncertain about their abilities and struggles with the weight of their responsibilities. However, as they befriend Elliot and navigate the complexities of diplomacy, Serene-Heart grows into a more confident and capable individual. Their arc is one of self-acceptance and finding their place within the Borderlands community.

Luke Sunborn

Luke's character arc is closely intertwined with his relationship with Elliot. Initially, he is guarded and closed-off, prioritizing his duty to protect the Borderlands above all else. However, as his bond with Elliot deepens, Luke begins to question his priorities and opens himself up to vulnerability. Luke's arc is one of breaking free from the expectations placed upon him and embracing the possibility of love and genuine connection.

Relationships

Elliot and Serene-Heart

Elliot and Serene-Heart's friendship forms the backbone of the story. Their relationship evolves from initial skepticism to a deep bond built on trust and understanding. Through their interactions, Elliot learns the value of compassion and empathy, while Serene-Heart gains the confidence to embrace their unique abilities and bridge the gap between the human and magical worlds.

Elliot and Luke

Elliot and Luke's relationship begins as a rivalry but gradually transforms into a deep connection and romantic interest. Their interactions challenge both characters to confront their preconceived notions and open themselves up to vulnerability. The relationship between Elliot and Luke highlights the importance of acceptance and the power of love in overcoming barriers.

Elliot and Serene-Heart's family

Elliot's interactions with Serene-Heart's family provide him with a sense of stability and support. They act as mentors, offering guidance and wisdom as Elliot navigates the complexities of the Borderlands. Through these relationships, Elliot gains a deeper understanding of the magical realm and forms connections that help shape his character growth.

Elliot and the Borderlands inhabitants

Elliot's interactions with the diverse inhabitants of the Borderlands challenge his assumptions and broaden his perspective. Through these relationships, he learns to appreciate different cultures and confront his own biases. The friendships he forms with various magical creatures contribute to his personal growth and play a significant role in shaping his character arc.

Elliot and the Alder

Elliot's relationship with the Alder is one of conflict and resistance. As he uncovers the Alder's oppressive rule, Elliot becomes determined to challenge their authority and fight for justice. This relationship serves as a catalyst for Elliot's growth, pushing him to confront his own fears and take a stand against tyranny.

Overall, "In Other Lands" presents a diverse cast of characters who undergo significant growth and transformation throughout the story. Through their relationships and personal journeys, they challenge societal norms, learn the importance of empathy, and navigate the complexities of love and friendship. Sarah Rees Brennan crafts a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of genuine connections.