"The Subtle Knife" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

Will Parry

Will Parry is one of the main protagonists in "The Subtle Knife." He is a young boy from our world, who becomes a key figure in the parallel universe exploration. Will's role is essential in bridging the gap between Lyra's world and ours.

Lyra Silvertongue

Lyra Silvertongue, also a protagonist, is a young girl from a parallel universe called Lyra's world. She possesses a unique ability to read an ancient device known as an alethiometer. Lyra's journey intertwines with Will's as they both navigate through different worlds.

Lee Scoresby

Lee Scoresby is a supporting character in the story. He is a Texan aeronaut and a friend of Lyra. Lee Scoresby plays a significant role in aiding the protagonists throughout their adventures.

Lord Asriel

Lord Asriel is another supporting character in "The Subtle Knife." He is Lyra's father and a powerful figure who seeks to challenge the authority of the Magisterium.

Mrs. Coulter

Mrs. Coulter serves as the primary antagonist in the novel. She is a charming and manipulative woman who works for the Magisterium. Mrs. Coulter's actions often hinder the protagonists' progress.

Jopari

Jopari, also known as Stanislaus Grumman, is a supporting character with a mysterious past. He possesses knowledge of the Subtle Knife, a powerful artifact that can cut through dimensions.

Serafina Pekkala

Serafina Pekkala is a witch and a supporting character in the book. She aids Lyra and Will in their quest and possesses her own unique powers.

Dr. Mary Malone

Dr. Mary Malone is a scientist from our world who becomes involved in the parallel universe exploration. She plays a crucial role in understanding Dust, a mysterious substance that connects different worlds.

Character Descriptions

Will Parry

Will Parry is a young boy, around 12 years old, with dark hair and a serious expression. He is resourceful and independent, having taken on the responsibility of caring for his mentally ill mother. Will is determined and brave, always putting others' needs before his own.

Lyra Silvertongue

Lyra Silvertongue is a young girl with blonde hair and a mischievous demeanor. She is curious and fearless, often getting herself and others into dangerous situations. Lyra possesses an enchanting charm that allows her to manipulate and persuade those around her.

Lee Scoresby

Lee Scoresby is a middle-aged Texan aeronaut with a rugged appearance. He is skilled in flying his hot air balloon and is known for his loyalty and bravery. Lee has a strong sense of justice and is always willing to help those in need.

Lord Asriel

Lord Asriel is a tall and imposing man with a commanding presence. He has a fierce determination to challenge the authority of the Magisterium and is willing to sacrifice anything to achieve his goals. Lord Asriel is charismatic but also distant and detached.

Mrs. Coulter

Mrs. Coulter is an elegant and beautiful woman with a captivating charm. She is manipulative and cunning, using her charisma to deceive others. Mrs. Coulter is also deeply ambitious, willing to do whatever it takes to maintain her position of power within the Magisterium.

Jopari

Jopari is a middle-aged man with a rugged appearance and a mysterious aura. He is knowledgeable about the Subtle Knife and holds secrets that are vital to the protagonists' mission. Jopari is determined and courageous, willing to face great risks to protect the Knife.

Serafina Pekkala

Serafina Pekkala is a witch with long black hair and a graceful presence. She possesses the ability to fly and has a deep connection to nature. Serafina is wise and compassionate, providing guidance and support to the protagonists throughout their journey.

Dr. Mary Malone

Dr. Mary Malone is a middle-aged scientist with a curious and open-minded nature. She is intelligent and analytical, always seeking to understand the mysteries of the universe. Dr. Malone is empathetic and caring, forming deep connections with the characters she encounters.

Character Traits

Will Parry

• Resourceful
• Independent
• Determined
• Brave
• Selfless

Lyra Silvertongue

• Curious
• Fearless
• Charismatic
• Manipulative
• Mischievous

Lee Scoresby

• Loyal
• Brave
• Just
• Skilled
• Adventurous

Lord Asriel

• Determined
• Charismatic
• Distant
• Sacrificial
• Ambitious

Mrs. Coulter

• Elegant
• Manipulative
• Cunning
• Ambitious
• Charismatic

Jopari

• Mysterious
• Courageous
• Knowledgeable
• Protective
• Determined

Serafina Pekkala

• Wise
• Compassionate
• Graceful
• Connected to nature
• Supportive

Dr. Mary Malone

• Curious
• Open-minded
• Intelligent
• Analytical
• Empathetic

Character Background

Will Parry

Will Parry comes from our world and has had a difficult upbringing. His father disappeared under mysterious circumstances, and his mother suffers from severe mental illness. Will takes on the responsibility of caring for his mother while also trying to uncover the truth about his father's disappearance. His resourcefulness and independence stem from his challenging background.

Lyra Silvertongue

Lyra Silvertongue was raised in the prestigious Jordan College in Oxford in Lyra's world. She grew up as an orphan and was initially unaware of her true parentage. Lyra's background as an orphan and her ability to navigate complex social structures has shaped her curious and fearless personality.

Lee Scoresby

Lee Scoresby is a Texan aeronaut who travels the world in his hot air balloon. He has a reputation for being a skilled and loyal friend. Lee's background as an adventurer and his experiences in various parts of the world have made him a resourceful and brave character.

Lord Asriel

Lord Asriel comes from a noble background and has a complicated relationship with Lyra. He is a powerful figure within the Magisterium and seeks to challenge its authority. Lord Asriel's ambitious nature and desire for power are influenced by his background as a member of the ruling class.

Mrs. Coulter

Mrs. Coulter is a sophisticated and influential member of the Magisterium. Her background as a high-ranking official has granted her access to power and resources. Mrs. Coulter's manipulative and ambitious personality is a result of her privileged upbringing.

Jopari

Jopari, also known as Stanislaus Grumman, has a mysterious background. He is a former shaman and possesses knowledge about the Subtle Knife. Jopari's secretive past and his connection to the powerful artifact shape his character.

Serafina Pekkala

Serafina Pekkala is a witch from the world of the witches. Her background as a witch gives her unique powers and a deep connection to nature. Serafina's wisdom and compassion are influenced by her role within the witch community.

Dr. Mary Malone

Dr. Mary Malone comes from our world and has a background in scientific research. Her curiosity and analytical nature have led her to study the mysteries of Dust and its connection to different universes. Dr. Malone's background as a scientist shapes her inquisitive and open-minded character.

Character Arcs

Will Parry

Will Parry's character arc in "The Subtle Knife" is one of self-discovery and growth. Initially, he is solely focused on protecting his mother. However, as he becomes involved in the parallel universe exploration, Will develops a sense of purpose and learns to harness his bravery and determination. Throughout the story, Will's arc revolves around finding his own identity and becoming a true hero.

Lyra Silvertongue

Lyra Silvertongue's character arc continues from the first book in the series, "Northern Lights." In "The Subtle Knife," Lyra's arc revolves around learning to trust others and understanding the consequences of her actions. She begins to question her own motivations and the impact of her choices on those around her. Lyra's growth is evident as she navigates new worlds and encounters different characters.

Lee Scoresby

Lee Scoresby's character arc in "The Subtle Knife" centers around his loyalty and dedication to Lyra. He becomes deeply involved in the mission to protect Lyra and Will, showcasing his bravery and selflessness. Lee's arc culminates in a pivotal moment of sacrifice, further highlighting his unwavering commitment to his friends.

Lord Asriel

Lord Asriel's character arc in "The Subtle Knife" expands on his role as a catalyst for change. He becomes increasingly determined to challenge the authority of the Magisterium and is willing to make significant sacrifices to achieve his goals. Lord Asriel's arc is driven by his ambition and desire to reshape the world.

Mrs. Coulter

Mrs. Coulter's character arc in "The Subtle Knife" delves deeper into her manipulative nature and the lengths she will go to maintain her position of power. Her arc showcases her cunning and reveals the complexities of her character. Mrs. Coulter's actions have far-reaching consequences, impacting the protagonists and the overall narrative.

Jopari

Jopari's character arc in "The Subtle Knife" revolves around his role as a guardian of the Subtle Knife. He is committed to protecting the Knife and ensuring it is used for the right purposes. Jopari's arc is shrouded in mystery and reveals more about his past, adding depth to his character.

Serafina Pekkala

Serafina Pekkala's character arc in "The Subtle Knife" focuses on her role as a mentor and ally to Lyra and Will. She provides guidance and support, showcasing her wisdom and compassion. Serafina's arc explores her connection to nature and her dedication to the greater good.

Dr. Mary Malone

Dr. Mary Malone's character arc in "The Subtle Knife" centers around her journey from scientist to explorer of parallel universes. She embraces the unknown and challenges her own preconceptions about the nature of reality. Dr. Malone's arc highlights her intellectual curiosity and her willingness to explore new possibilities.

Relationships

Will Parry and Lyra Silvertongue

The relationship between Will Parry and Lyra Silvertongue is at the heart of "The Subtle Knife." Initially, they are strangers from different worlds, but they quickly form a deep bond as they navigate the challenges they face together. Will and Lyra's relationship is characterized by trust, mutual support, and a shared sense of purpose.

Lyra Silvertongue and Mrs. Coulter

Lyra's complex relationship with her mother, Mrs. Coulter, is an important dynamic in the story. Mrs. Coulter's manipulative nature often puts Lyra in danger, but there are moments of genuine connection and affection between them. Lyra's conflicting feelings towards her mother add depth to her character and drive the narrative forward.

Lee Scoresby and Lyra Silvertongue

Lee Scoresby's relationship with Lyra is one of friendship and loyalty. He becomes a mentor figure to Lyra, offering guidance and protection. Lee's unwavering support for Lyra strengthens their bond and showcases the importance of friendship in the face of adversity.

Lord Asriel and Lyra Silvertongue

Lyra's relationship with her father, Lord Asriel, is complicated. While she yearns for his approval and seeks to understand him, Lord Asriel remains distant and focused on his own goals. Their relationship is marked by a mix of admiration, confusion, and a longing for connection.

Will Parry and Jopari

Will's relationship with Jopari is significant as Jopari holds vital knowledge about the Subtle Knife. Jopari becomes a mentor figure to Will, guiding him and providing insight into the Knife's power. Their bond deepens as they navigate dangerous situations together.

Serafina Pekkala and Lyra Silvertongue

Serafina Pekkala serves as a mentor and protector to Lyra. She guides Lyra on her journey and provides emotional support. Serafina's relationship with Lyra highlights the importance of female mentorship and empowerment.

Dr. Mary Malone and the Protagonists

Dr. Mary Malone forms a unique bond with the protagonists, Lyra and Will. She aids them in their quest and offers her scientific knowledge to help them understand the nature of Dust and parallel universes. Dr. Malone's relationship with Lyra and Will showcases the intersection of science and spirituality.

In conclusion, "The Subtle Knife" by Philip Pullman presents a diverse cast of characters with distinct roles, traits, backgrounds, and relationships. The intricacies of their interactions and individual growth contribute to the rich narrative and drive the story forward.