Small Gods by Terry Pratchett Character Analysis

List of Characters

Brutha - Protagonist

Role Identification

Brutha is the main character and protagonist of "Small Gods." He is a novice in the Omnian church, chosen by the Great God Om to be his prophet.

Character Description

Brutha is a young and simple novice with a remarkable memory. He is often underestimated due to his humble nature and unassuming appearance.

Character Traits

• Devout
• Compassionate
• Humble
• Intelligent
• Determined

Character Background

Brutha grew up in the Omnian church, devoting his life to its teachings. Despite being uneducated, he possesses a remarkable memory, which becomes a crucial aspect of his character.

Character Arc

Brutha's character arc revolves around his transformation from a humble novice to a figure of immense importance in the Omnian church and the world at large. He undergoes a journey of self-discovery and growth, challenging the established beliefs of his religion.

Relationships

Brutha forms a complex relationship with the Great God Om, who initially underestimates him but later comes to rely on his wisdom and guidance. He also develops a mentor-student relationship with Didactylos, a philosopher who challenges Brutha's beliefs.

Om - Deuteragonist

Role Identification

Om is the Great God of the Omnian church, who becomes trapped in the body of a small tortoise due to the lack of belief from his followers.

Character Description

Initially arrogant and disconnected from his followers, Om undergoes a transformation when he becomes trapped in the body of a tortoise. Through this experience, he learns humility and gains a deeper understanding of humanity.

Character Traits

• Arrogant
• Wise
• Witty
• Humble (after transformation)

Character Background

As the Great God, Om had been revered by millions of followers. However, he had become disconnected from the true nature of his believers and the essence of faith.

Character Arc

Om's character arc is centered around his transformation from a proud and disconnected deity to a humble and connected god who learns the true meaning of faith and belief.

Relationships

Om's most significant relationship is with Brutha, whom he initially underestimates but later comes to rely on for guidance and support.

Vorbis - Antagonist

Role Identification

Vorbis is the head of the Quisition, the Omnian church's feared inquisition, and serves as the primary antagonist in "Small Gods."

Character Description

Vorbis is a cunning and ruthless leader who uses fear and manipulation to maintain control within the Omnian church and its followers.

Character Traits

• Ruthless
• Manipulative
• Cunning
• Authoritative

Character Background

Vorbis rose to power through his intelligence and ruthless nature, using fear and manipulation to maintain control and further his agenda within the church.

Character Arc

Vorbis' character arc illustrates the destructive nature of unchecked power and the lengths to which individuals may go to maintain their authority and control.

Relationships

Vorbis has a contentious relationship with both Brutha and Om, as his ruthless methods directly oppose their beliefs and values.

Didactylos - Mentor

Role Identification

Didactylos is a philosopher and a mentor to Brutha, offering guidance and challenging the traditional beliefs of the Omnian church.

Character Description

Didactylos is a wise and insightful philosopher who questions the established norms and challenges Brutha to think critically about his beliefs.

Character Traits

• Wise
• Philosophical
• Critical Thinker
• Rebellious

Character Background

Didactylos has spent his life questioning the status quo and challenging the beliefs of the Omnian church, often at great personal risk.

Character Arc

Didactylos' character arc revolves around his role as a catalyst for Brutha's growth and his unwavering commitment to critical thinking and philosophical inquiry.

Relationships

Didactylos forms a mentor-student relationship with Brutha, guiding him through moments of doubt and challenging him to question the established doctrines of the Omnian church.

Simony - Supporting Character

Role Identification

Simony is a fellow novice in the Omnian church and becomes a close ally and friend to Brutha.

Character Description

Simony is depicted as a loyal and supportive friend to Brutha, often providing companionship and a sounding board for his thoughts and concerns.

Character Traits

• Loyal
• Supportive
• Friendly
• Caring

Character Background

Simony shares a similar background with Brutha, having grown up within the church and devoted his life to its teachings.

Character Arc

Simony's character arc is intertwined with his unwavering support for Brutha and his role in providing emotional support and camaraderie throughout Brutha's journey.

Relationships

Simony shares a close friendship with Brutha, offering unwavering support and camaraderie during their shared experiences within the Omnian church.

In "Small Gods," Terry Pratchett skillfully crafts a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique role and contribution to the narrative. As the story unfolds, the complex relationships and character dynamics drive the plot forward, offering readers a rich and compelling exploration of faith, power, and the human experience.