Nynaeve is a great choice for #1. Notice how she is the one person that Rand always trusts 1) to complement him when he needs to combine with the female half of the source, knowing she'll figure out what's needed, and be steadfast and capable, 2) she sees things his way as to goals and priorities, and 3) Rand never once mistrusts her motives. That pair's relationship is my absolute favorite in the book - no romance needed!
Brechje Bakker what shallow because they repetitive description annoyed me how so? My favourite is Matt Cauthon hands down, Nynaeve did improve under Sanderson once all the braid pulling was reduced.
Was surprised by Moraine's omission, but also in disagreement with his choices for Mat. Character arc, he gets completely wrong at the end, Mat's has incredible character growth, suffering through the dagger poisoning, then getting memories of other man, and keeping his own character in the midst of that is incredibly strong. Also Mat and the one power phobia also morph's his acquisition of the fox head medallion and always doing things far away from his what he feels is safe or sane to help other is noble, but the fact hat he does do it, especially helping the aes sedai he helps is incredible character development and growth and strength, furthermore, Mat ends up being quit responsible, that is a massive change, he just retains his twinkle mischievousness, he goes from always running away and having to be hauled in to actually running into the danger by the end. How Nae'blis can't see this is dumbfounding to me, perhaps Mat just isn't dark enough. I'd shoot his character arc to 13 or 14 minimum. Also uniqueness. Come on.. is his luck all Naeblis could think off and being a rogue trope..firstly, no one, and I mean no one is THAT lucky and how Jordan justifies and gives him is luck is totally a part of his character, making him one very unique rogue., then Mashaadar, the dagger, the memories - and his own natural skill - he is unique as they come despite his trope being such a familiar one, i'tsh ow the trope is executed that is so excellent, it feels fresh and compelling, despite being one of the most common - who does a rogue trope like Mat Cauthon? Rogue, turned General, turned prince - and you only give him a 4 out of 5? No sir, that's a 5/5 out of 5. This imo, takes him to 48/50
Nynaeve is my second favorite character only after Rand. While she's somewhat of an arrogant bully at the start of the series, she really becomes an amazing person by the end of it. She shares the single most monumental event of the series outside of Tarmon Gaidon with Rand, as she's the one person the Dragon Reborn trusted to share that with. She delivered the "will he ride alone?" speech. She's so far from perfect, and that's what makes her victories so satisfying.
The tugging of her braid always pissed me off. I wanted to just snatch her up and strangle her to death. All of them pissed me of them and there respect me because I have the one power shit. Get out of here!
I wish I should smash a LOVE button instead of just the like button! Nynaeve as the number nearly made me jump of off my office chair for joy! I love her character and I feel like she’s doesn’t get the fan love she desires, she goes misunderstood and that’s a damn shame. Nynaeve for best girl in all of fiction!
Moiraine is absent for nearly 2/3's of the series. Her development isnt overly dramatic even counting A New Spring. Her relationship with Lan is unchanging, the only real relationship development we see is between Moiraine and Rand (my absolute favourite relationship in the entire series, and possibly in any book I've ever read) and Moiraine and Eqwene. Moiraine is still one of my all time favourite characters but it IS hard to put her in the top ten when she is absent for most of the series. Her reappearance at Merrilor, in fact the entire Merrilor section felt contrived and poorly executed. It felt like Sanderson just wanted to dump everything he could onto those pages and then move on as as quickly as possible. Padan Fain is the great tragedy of Wheel of Time. Personally I think he should have been part of the Cleansing and died somehow in book 11. He was literally RIGHT THERE in Far Madding right before the cleansing! Cadsuane could have caught him, thus earning her legendary status with some on screen heroics for once. Perhaps Rand could have then used him as a human sieve and pumped the evil of Shadar Logoth through him or something, and he could have dissolved slowly in the process, except for the dagger which gets ends up back in the hole locking a little evil back in the bedrock ready for the next turning. I was always worried that Padan Fain might end up to much like Gholam if he made it to Shayol Ghul and died during the sealing of the bore. Still Brandon Sanderson had 3 extra books and he still couldn't do Fain justice. *sigh*
My only problem with his argument for her though is that for the character arc he gives ger 15 mostly for her staying true to herself while molding herself as she needs (becoming Aes Sedai, etc.) as her goals/values which never really change. Yet, for pretty much the same exact reason he only gives 10 to Mat. You can say the same things about him, he also stays true to himself while molding himself as he needs (becoming general), and he doesn't actually always takes his responsabilities and duties as seriously as he needs at the start compared to the end, I mean he did take the dagger at the beginning, and at the end he's taking initiatives to help. On top of that, while it's an artificial change to his character, the things the dagger do to him ARE part of his character arc and so in the end it's not even right to say he's the same from beginning to end. If that were the case, why is he many people's least favorite character at the beginning of the series and then their favorite later on? I think his bias is what leads him to give 15 to his personal favorite character for very simiar reasons to the one for which he gives only 10 to Mat...
@@BradJames83 No, she grew power hungry and believed she was the person who was supposed to check Rand's power and it was a ridiculous and idiotic thing to believe.
To consider a character change, you must consider what the character's thoughts and beliefs were about their world and environment, not simply circumstances. Mat's changing circumstances made him realize that while he has seen adventure, adventure isn't as glamorous or as fun as he originally thought. He learns that nobles aren't all bad, which is kind of a prejudice he holds earlier in the series. He forces others to look at things in a new way, because he is able to bridge the gap between the common folk and the high born. He also forces some stubborn women to learn to be more humble when he saves them and they fail to thank him time and again. Early in the series, Mat would skip responsibility if he could get away with it back in Emond's Field and he starts that way on the adventure, but he certainly takes it on less and less reluctantly. I think the major change is learning that adventure, heroes, and the world are not all that glamorous or fun. I also think obtaining the memories of great captains and fighters from ages past had an impact on him, but it's subtle. It's the difference between being a kid and growing up. On the surface, what we get, is the growth of Mat over time. Perrin and Rand change in much the same way, but their catalysts were much more dramatic than Mat's. Theirs felt to me scarier, while Mat's even though he's a leader in battle, seemed always to have an edge of fun, which is why I think you don't see the change.
Absolutely agree with this. Also I think because Mat consistently underestimated *himself* so much, even more so than Perrin, the readers often do so too. In Carhien he wants to escape responsibility by just running away from an important battle. Before the start of the Last Battle he 'escapes' responsibility not because he wants to run away, not because he refuses to do work: he works quite hard in all kinds of ways, training new recruits etc - he just refuses to compromise his principles by ordering execution just because that's what the Seanchan culture would expect of him. I think Mat has an enormous character arc but also remains true to his core self from within, very similar to Nynaeve actually
The “Alternate Wheel of Time Ending” whiteboard in the background is so meta and funny because for someone who doesn’t get the joke it must sound like complete nonsense.
1. Matrim Cauthon 2. Rand al'Thor 3. Demandred (I know he has no PoV chapters but fighting him is what made Memory of Light so compelling for me) 4. Lan Mandragoran 5. Perrin Aybara 6. Moiraine Damodred 7. Rodel Ituralde 8. Thomdril Merrilin 9. Lanfear 10. Verin Mathwin Mine is pretty different from yours...
I think you might be missing something about Fain. It seemed to me, with all Rand’s talk of destroying the Dark One, that Fain was being set up by the Pattern to “ascend” as a new DO since the pattern can’t survive without one. Once Rand settled one sealing and not destruction, and then did that, Fain was no longer needed in the Pattern. I think that was the reason he was ended so anti-climatically. That’s just my 2¢. Great video as always.
Nynaeve is my favorite character, followed by Verin I think. I also liked Pevara and Androl. Pevara was unusual for a red and Androl was uniquely powerful while still being weak. He also had a good head on his shoulders.
An Aviendha question and comment: 1. What will she do with the unexpected doting servant acquired during the Last Battle as a results of the Compulsion Rebound? 2. NB. If her children were conceived after Rand's body swop then genetically they will not be related to Elaine's children by Rand. The same will apply to any children had by Min.
No Moiraine? Her character arc is amazing. Her role is crucial. Crucial! Her interactions with other characters is some of the best. Her exchanges with Thom in Tear remind me of Francie and John in To Catch A Thief. Her whole image is cool Aes Sedai control but she’s a puppet master riding a bull in a hurricane. She is THE best character in the series. Rand, Nyneave, Egwene, Perrin, Matt and even Thom not only wouldn’t be alive but would not be the people they became without her influence. With LAN’s input she showed them what was required of them at every level to survive and succeed. Great work on the list but I feel Moiraine has been slighted. You honestly think Fain is better than THE Aes Sedai? I find that staggering. The greatest servant the Westlands ever had. Anyway. It’s all just opinion. Love the channel Cheers
Birgitte and Matt are always my runaway two favorites. Imo no character has as strong a relationship between major characters that we actually get to see play put on page (instead of just hearing about) than Matrim Cauthon. He gets at least one major scene with just about every significant character besides Avienda (and even then we got a few minor scenes on thier way to Salidar just to kind of see how it plays out as well as her role in bringing Elayne around to met her debt to him and treat him better). If I had to create a list of my 10 favorite character interactions, Mat is easily in 6 of them.
I just finished a memory of light and I love your videos, amazing work ! Nynaeve is also my favorite character and I'll definitely miss her ! Thanks for the great content ! :)
Plus #1 has one of the best, most tear filling, shout out “hell yeah” conversations in the books - Master Aldragoran? You were pointed out to me as a merchant with a wide correspondence by pigeon. How may I help you, Aes Sedai? You wish me to send a message for you via my pigeons? It will be my pleasure. A message to each merchant you correspond with. Tarmon Gai’don is coming soon. That is nothing to do with me, Aes Sedai. I’m a merchant. But I will send your message. Do you recognize this? (He gasps) I recognize it. My name is Nynaeve ti al’Meara Mandragoran. The message I want sent is this. My husband rides from World’s End toward Tarwin’s Gap, toward Tarmon Gai’don. Will he ride alone? (He trembles) I will send your message, my Lady, but it has nothing to do with me. I am a merchant. Malkier is dead. Dead, I tell you. Lan told me once that Malkier lives so long as one man wears the hadori in pledge that he will fight the shadow, so long as one woman wears the ki’sain in pledge that she will send her sons to fight the Shadow. I wear the ki’sain, Master Aldragoran. My husband wears the hadori. So do you. Will Lan Mandragoran ride to the Last Battle alone? (He starts laughing, shaking, crying) He will not, my Lady. I cannot stand surety for anyone else, but I swear to you under the Light and by my hope of rebirth and salvation, he will not ride alone. (She starts to turn away-) May I offer you wine, my Lady? My wife will want to meet you. Thank you, Master Aldragoran, but I have several more towns to visit today, and I must be back in Tear tonight. (He stares after her in confusion) (The room is silent) Well, Managan, Gorenellin, do you still remember who you are? Do you remember your blood? Who rides with me for Tarwin’s Gap? Managan: The Golden Crane flies for Tarmon Gai’don. Gorenellin: The Golden Crane flies for Tarmon Gai'don! (Aldragoran laughs) The Golden Crane flies for Tarmon Gai’don!
I was going to amend your list slightly and argue why Min was not on it but then you put my all time favorite at the top so I decided to let it go. ;-) As for her status as Aes Sedai, I almost feel she embidies the true intent of the role as "servant to all". I think she'll be vital in the restructuring of the channelers post MoL, when men can once again be allowed to channel openly without fear. Though I would say that Min and Nynaeve plays a big part in Rand not getting worse than he gets at the end.
Yes I agree, Nynaeve is intelligent, strong personality, brave, kind, firm, loyal, passionate. Explosive character, but honest and straight forward. Not afraid to show love to Len and all close and dear to her.
I disagree that Matt Cauthon doesn't change through the book. Matt learns responsibility through the series, he learns to care for others, he becomes less greedy, and much more cultured. His natural intelligence is gradually revealed through the series. I would consider Matt to be one of the most insightful in the series. He just keeps the best of it to himself. I struggle with Sanderson's interpretation . Matt may choose course language but there is never any written indication (except Sanderson's own) that Matt is illiterate. Matt even talks about his favourite books, not yo mention the memories of the extremely educated people he now has access to. I would accept a shifting writing style as he moved through different people's memories, much like he and Fain do in their speech.. Matt is very smart. Sanderson can't tell the difference between a Rogue and Imbecile.
I cannot believe Perrin made the list. After his arc in going back to his village (in book 3 - I think?) he essentially became more and more of a love sick puppy until his sole motivation was his ridiculous toxic relationship with Faile. His arc went from a promising 10/10 to 2/10. From an interesting premise of a character, to a one-note overpowered bore. I cannot stress this enough, how Jordan romanticized his abusive, toxic relationship with Faile. Personal preference aside, he really is not original at all. He is a typical gentle giant blacksmith. Talking to wolves - again, how is that original exactly?
I agree. Plenty of other books have talking to wolves / transforming into a wolf; the Belgariad and Mallorean for example. Also as you say the gentle giant blacksmith is very common in fantasy. Every time he said 'Nothing matters except Faile' I wanted someone to punch him in the face, then punch him again just to make sure he got the message. He goes from fairly sensible to not caring if the world ends as long as he gets her back. I think Faile was the problem character, the whole Cha Faile thing was just stupid.
Only recently discovered your channel. Great work man. This is probably the first of your lists I really disagree with completely, but it isn't suprising since most of this one is a matter of opinion. Perrin, for example, wouldn't even make my top 10. I do love Nynaeve at #1 though, love her character arc and development so much.
Ignoring everything else Mat was my favourite character. I always wanted to read more about him and yet he got less chapters than the rest. There is something about being morally that same country lad , albeit a rascal, thrown amongst danger, royalty, holders of magic and the fact that he stays himself that I love. He is a bad ass even when kinda freaking out. He kills very early on in the books and it doesn’t seem to weigh on him like it does Perrin and Rand. Plus, the amount of weird stuff that happens to him, his memories etc would generally mess someone up but he’s not very introspective so he just carries on. He saves Nynaeve and Egwene a few times and they never really thank him and still treat him like an idiot. Yet he loyally carries on doing it. I was disappointed in his relationship with Tuon. I wanted there to be a bit more love or more passion but it was more luck brought them together and kept them that way.
Mat evolved from a selfish child to a hero. Id say his arc was pretty significant. RJ definitely ran him through the gamut of tropes. It was great to see him start as an immature trickster, then evolve toqards that reluctant hero trope and then finally fall into that brilliant tactician and leader.
Haven't even watched yet and expecting heated debate... creating good characters was one of Jordan's deepest strengths imo.... even minor characters, like the frog faced Simion, who's brother was lostt to the wolves in The Dragon Reborn was well written and interesting.... as minor a character as there is... Yet still a good, distinct, well written character. Good characters are arguably what Jordan did best.
Great list and video. Agree with most. I think Min was a better character, or at least just as good of a character as Aviendha, but I understand you had to make a list of 10 with soo many good characters. I would love to eventually see a video on Min's visions and what each one ended up meaning.
This was so fun to watch! I love the system you came up with and your explanations for your rankings. I don’t think rand would be so high up on my list personally. I just feel like once we get past the beginning of the series I felt fairly distanced from him and like I didn’t understand him as well as I did the other characters. I loved who got your number 1 spot - wasn’t expecting that!
Fun list , like your reasoning behind character.. I disagreed with placement of some but thats the beauty of this series , so many characters , so much development , people will be naturally drawn to different characters. 10. Verin.. when she reveals herself to egwene is one of my favorite moments.. 9. Thom merrilin 8. Lan 7. Lanfear 6. Egwene, once shes in the white tower and her abilities suppressed yet still triumphs made me love her character and couldnt wait to get back to her. 5. Nynaeve . Haaaaaattted her the first third of this series and she slowly grew into one of my favorites. 4. Fain. I'm in the minority here but I liked his ending , looking unstoppable but something as simple as Matt being immune brings him down with ease. If he was the main antagonist I'd have been pissed but it's almost comical how easily he ended up being disposed of 3. Perrin never got bored with Perrin, I loved that even though rand is essentially a god , Perrin ends up becoming the most powerful character in the series with his master of the wolf dream. 2. Rand, his slow progressive dive Into insanity and his overcoming of it to become zen rand was beautiful. 1.Matt , I agree with your assessment on his growth as a character but outside the first 2 books there was noone I was more excited to get back to than matt the entire series.
I really appreciate that you not only went for who you liked best but used these categories. It's a great list imo (though it differs quite a bit from mine) and my first two are the same =P I loved how you described Nynaeve
Love the "Olver elected Dragon Reborn" thing, but I've always thought Olver was Gaidal Cain... As for Graendal being the most interesting Forsaken, I agree completely. All of the Forsaken to survive the first few books were very intresting, with the exception of Moghedien. Honestly, when Moghedien was introduced as "The Spider" I was very excited to see her in action. We never actually got to see that, though. She just appeared out of nowhere, fought Nynaeve, and then her character for the rest of the series boiled down to "I hate Nynaeve" As for Mat, I agree he's the most interesting character in the series. While complaining about how boring Crossroads of Twilight was, I remarked, "Except for Mat. Robert Jordan could write Mat watching paint dry and it would still be interesting"
IMO Min should be a top 10, mostly cause of how ”normal” she is. Except for her title as Doomseer, she’s quite normal, And that’s what I love about her. And also what Rand loves about her. She’s a breath of fresh air, for us as readers and for Rand. She was often quite literally his lifeline to sanity, without her he would’ve collapses a long time ago, I’m sure of it. And yes I know her role is almost only to be Randa wife and biggest supporter, but I loved it cause that’s exactly what Rand needed. He didn’t need anybody powerful who could do anything he wished in the blink of an eye, he needed someone to talk to, someone who treats him like Rand, not dragon reborn. And that’s what she did. Also her seeing ability is crucial to the plot ofc, but just her character overall is amazing imo, she’s soo pure and kind. And also funny. Most of all that she just doesn’t care that Rand is the dragon reborn, like everybody else does. She’s life one of the biggest reasons to Randa development, if we only talk about character on character influence. She’s definitely not top 5, but in my list top 10 because of how unique she is and how important she was to Rands development
I'd still put Rand 1, but Nynaeve is an easy top two for me as well. I love her so bloody much. Light! I must say that she didn't reach such high esteem in my mind until at earliest my first reread. When you reread understanding who Nynaeve is and what her core motivations are it completely changes the way you perceive her. She stopped being annoying and was more humorous and relatable in the first half of the series. One significant thing I just realized is that Nynaeve and Rand brought me to tears, especially with audiobook rereads, more times than any other characters by quite a bit. Ok this is my 3rd edit, but I want to comment on the whole list too. For the most part I'd have all the same characters as you. Elan/Ishammael/Moridin would replace Graendal as my lone forsaken, and he may be a bit higher. Also, I may have to kick Aviendha out for Lan. Otherwise I think we have very similar perspectives.
I understand about liking different characters more during the rereads. I've always loved Nynaeve and Egwene later in the books, but after a reread, my love and appreciation for Elayne skyrocketed and she is still in my top 10 today. Many don't like her for her noble attitude, but I think she was not only written very well, but comes off as a really strong and capable woman who isn't afraid to face adversity for the sake of her responsibilities or her friends.
Padan Fain certainly deserved a more epic end due to just how terrifying he was to both the light and shadow (let's not forget), but as you mentioned Sanderson finished the books and maybe he just didn't have what he needed to work in a better conclusion. He had 3 books, extensive notes apparently, but Jordan wasn't here anymore to consult. Sadly.
Great list. I would have included an allegorical category though. Like Mat's "a guy could get killed in there" or Rand's "death is lighter than a feather, but duty is heavier than a mountain". Just 5 points though or Lini might tie with Siuan and beat the best characters.
I agree with you about Perrin and Fail’s relationship. It is my personal favorite relationship in the books and I felt more joy when they got married then at any point in any relationship with any other characters.
My only complaint with this video is I would argue Egwene's relationship with everyone in the White Tower that develop from book 11 on should have bumped her relationship score up imo. The way she mentors and supports the novices/accepted, the way she slowly makes those above her respect her, everything.
I always felt the love story between Nyneave and Lan to be very forced. "I love you." "I can't love you" "you saved my life, let's get married!" "Kay."
Even if Branson Sanderson struggled with writing Mat, I think the character voice was much more distinctive in Brandons part. He did a fantastic job with that.
Mat is a completely different man than the boy that left the Two Rivers. He goes from being the one who sneers at heroes and constantly and deliberately shirks responsibility to begrudgingly, but consistently, stepping up when needed eventually becoming the 2nd or 3rd man to be mentioned in the ballad of the Last Battle. I have no idea how you're marking him down for character arc
The characters like Elaida and Egwene were 'touched' by the evil that possessed Padan Fain. Which Fain talks about in one of his point of view chapters.
Great list! This really made me want to reread the series... so many great characters, and Nynaeve might be my favorite fictional character of all time.
Nae'blis you don't know how much I believe in your character assessment!! I would definitely put nynaeve in the first spot too......I absolutely adore her!!
Had to pause the video to say I completely agree about Verin. I roleplayed an Aes Sedai for a while in Second Life, way back when I think, only through book 5 was out, and played a member of the brown solely because, even then, Verin was an intriguing character. Back to watching.
Love that Nynaeve is number 1 - she has always been my absolute favourite character and I can't wait to see how she is portrayed in the TV series. Great list :)
Very interesting list! I just thought when talking about Verin's relationships, you would mention her relationship with Tomas, her Warder. A bit of a missed opportunity, but I guess some things can slip one by.
If I've read the series once I'd have probably cursed you about Nynaeve's first position; but having read it several times for me she's the #1 character as well - she's the only person from book 1 to book 14 to stand her ground regardless of the consequences and protect the people she loves. However not including Moiraine, taking in account her enormous influence on the majority of the other main characters I would say is a miss
For a moment I thought you'd omit Nynaeve for Bela... /s Anyway, I agree with a lot of stuff here, and you had some great insights about the characters that I seldom hear, like with how just because a character falters in judgment, they aren't badly written but rather human. The difference between that and simply poor twists (like you say, Egwene not talking to Rand) is important. I also liked how you treated my favourite, Aviendha; I love her to bits but unfortunately she has a secondary role through most of it, serving as part of other plots rather than her own. Finally, for me it's also kind of obvious that a few characters suffered as Brandon Sanderson took over. Now don't get me wrong, I really think he was a good choice for the most part, and his passion was obvious, but I think he just either knew too little about some character plans or things fizzled out. Many of the small critiques and inconsistences that I have, come from the final books. That said, I am also a big fan of slower writing, and RJ certainly had that quality to his writing to a larger degree.
I agree with the assessment of Sanderson's writing. I think he did a fine job overall and I wasn't disappointed in the overall story, but he did let me down with some characters and the incredibly fast-paced writing style. The characters that he ruined most for me were Mat and Aviendha. He just didn't seem to capture their voices in the same way. I'm about to reread the last few books so I'll get another closer look at it to see if I still feel that way or if there are others I also am disappointed in. Those were the two that instantly struck me though.
Ok, so I get the choices for sure. I think if I was throwing out my own list, I might end up dropping Graendal, Verin, Egwene(maybe). I might have shot for Logain, Androl, Loial. Taim was pretty fantastic as well. I just finished the series and loved the damn thing. Thanks.
See there are so many great characters it is hard to really even narrow them down. Moirane, Gaul, Hopper and twenty five more...I would end with fifteen tenth spots.
About Padan Fain. I think that his role was clearly completed. He is owner of separate dark power. Evil, dark, but separated to the DO. End his role in this history was to make Rand understand how to clean Saidin. Both dark powers was killing each other inside Rand. It's very similar to the power of Light. One Source - two different powers - Saidin and Saidar. Darkness had the power of DO and power of Shadar Lagoth.
I would have found a place for faile, (sp) I know I'm probably the oddball there, but to me she is everything I like about a woman. Strong, intelligent, willfull, pretty. She reminds me of my sister's.
Oh wow - for me Faile is one of the very few characters in any book when I often caught myself shaking my head at her sheer unwillingness to accept others' opinions/points of view... the Faile/Perrin relationship is also a headscratcher to me. Having said that this is probably due to my real-life people preference:-) As a point of interest... Who did you find the most annoying?
Perin for me gets MUCH lower points. 5 for Arc, 10 for uniqueness, 3 for story (He appears A LOT, but basically does nothing and helps the forces of Light in 0 ways.It's like he's a side quest), 5 for relationships and 0 for entertaining.He is the main thing that made reading the series so slow for me. He should not be on this list. Egwene should never get anything more than 7 for entertaining. You said this WOULDN'T be just your personal favorites, but then you just proceeded to name your personal favorites. IMO: Mat > Rand > Nynaeve > Graendal > Egwene > Lanfear > Aviendha > Thom > Moridin > Cadsuane
Egwene defending the White Tower was one of my most favorite moments in the entire series. My biggest problem with her (and Rand) was that they never talked; they just confronted each other. If they had gone all Two Rivers, most of the latter books could have been avoided.
1.) Rand -His arc is beautiful and was entertaining throughout the entire series. Particularly his depression and descent into madness. The slog, as sloggy as it was, always picked up in the few and far between Rand chapters. 2.) Nynaeve - Arguably the second best developed character and consistent character throughout the series, she was always true to her nature. Tempermental, but wise, aggressive but caring, and actually cared for and aided Rand in a way no one truly did, even when Rand was dangerous. When Moraine dragged him away from Two Rivers, she protested it. When Egwene or Elayne were childish, Nynaeve scorend her. When Rand was a dumbass, she let him know it. Lan and her relationship are hilarious. Her Aes Sedai trial in book 13 sold the deal for me. 3.) Perrin/Mat -These two vacillate to me. From books 1-3, Perrin without a doubt. I felt Mat's dagger arc was a bit boring, but after book 3 or whenever he was healed, Mat shot right up. He was relatively consistent throughout the slog, and did the most of all the characters in my opinion, and also was, at least to me, the focus in those books. Books 11-13 also feature Mat's story heavily, especially related to Moraine, the Gholam, and he's finally interacting with Perrin again. Perrin, on the otherhand, has a few more ups and downs and is less of a consistent character. His goodness and reliability in 1-3 and his relationship with Elayne were highlights, as was his gradual change into a warrior and leader in books 3 and 4 and 5, especially beloved when he defends the Two Rivers. After the Wells, he doesn't do much in my opinion. When Faile is kidnapped, he meanders about looking for her for around 3 or so books, and even after that he doesn't do much until the Children of the Light, and then it's another tedious Wolf-Dream grind until he forges his hammer and gets shit done. Mat and Perrin then both fall in together in ranking, but I think Mat and his devious and rebellious nature, particularly towards Egwene, Elayne and Nynaeve when they are being arrogant bitches puts him above Perrin. 4.) Lan/Moraine -These two go hand in hand, though seeing as Moraine dissapears for like 8 books I'd say Lan takes the cake. He's a character that foreshadows Rand, yet Lan embraces that side. He's our first introduction to a warder, radiates lethality, and never ceases to steal the mind of the reader when mentioned. He and Rand's reunion when Rand sees Nynaeve again was some damn fun reading, and his Golden Crane arc in the last two books is also good. It's unfortunate he's not in the books more, as he also dissapears for a bit. He and Nynaeve are an oddly perfect match. Moraine on the other hand is a mysterious and excellent character that is in the series from its infancy, and her impact is lasting. She introduces so many arcs, the One Power, etc. that it's hard not to appreciate her, despite the hatred she was shown from an early stage, in the later books when Rand is coming out of his madness. She just came back in book 14 so I'm excited. 5.) Gareth Byrne/Tam -He gives off Dalinar Kholin vibes, he is similar to Tam as he is a rock of sorts as a character, very dutiful, serious, and honorable, and represents the best qualities of most people in the series. He and Siuan are funny, even though most of his arc was dragged out over the slog. 6.) Aviendha/Elayne/Egwene -At times these characters are great, at times they are not. I never truly have enjoyed Egwene besides a point of relationship with Rand, which fizzled out unexpectedly as the series progressed. Before meeting Aviendha, and way after Elayne, I still expected Egwene and Rand to marry. It was hinted at a LOT in the early novels and reciprocated, and it just fizzled out. I especially didn't like her stupidity when dealing with Rand, or the slog arcs. Her sabotage of the White Tower was interesting, as is her dynamics with the TOWER Aes Sedai and the Forsaken. The Wise Ones were also pretty neat. Aviendha on the other hand was interesting from start to finish. The clash of cultures between Rand and her Aiel ways was fascinating, and their eventual love and somewhat lorebreaking gate-way-to-seanchan-even-though-you-didnt-know-there-was-a-continent-there was fun. I felt her arc was stalled with the bowl of winter and subsequent stories, but then her return and becoming a Wise One was great. She faded from what seemed to be a Faile-like prominent character to almost a Gareth-Bryne level side character which is dissapointing. Elayne serves as a royal tie to Rand, a connection to Thom, a humor to Mat, and all around is interesting. Her slog arc was boring as all hell and I don't even remember it. 7.) Ishamael -The overall antagonist besides Lews Therin, representing the worst of him, and forced to endure the wheel for eternity alongside him. His arc from overshadowed Elan --> Logical, not evil Forsaken --> Mad, hateful, evil Forsaken --> Cold, tired and nihilistic Forsaken was great. 9.) Lews Therin Teramon -He's not fleshed out enough for me to truly love him, but his interactions with Rand and general story is fucking amazing. I would not mind you sharing my head, were you not so blatantly mad.
I was so happy with your number one pick. I hated her at the beginning, but absolutely loved her by the end. Maybe hate is too strong of a work. But, you understand.
I think you should do some "Character Assassinations" critiquing WOT characters both Light and Dark sides in the WORST possible light. (NOT criticising the writing style, because that's been done, but attacking the Characters themselves as if they were a politician you dont like 🤣)
I like how the EF5 are almost perfectly matched D&D characters. Mat is a Rogue, Perrin is a cross between a Druid and a Barbarian, and Rand plays an amalgamation of several, though probably most notably a Paladin, but with elements of Sorcerer and Monk as well.
I definitely bump Aviendha and Graendal for Moiraine and Lan... assuming New Spring material qualifies for this list...otherwise they may not have enough POV moments. And my own personal favs that might bump Verin are Min or Cadsuane, but I’m not sure if they could really hang if I put them to your test
Wolf Dream (and many of the early dream segments in general are often boring for me) and i dont dislike Faile, its not her that makes Perrin chapters boring, its Perrin moaning about EVERYTHING that makes those chapters boring to read.
Graendal: I think her point of views actually subtracted from her character over all. Like this we have the sinful yet mastermind character that would have been better with more mystery. Aviendha: I love her back and forth with Rand, but that doesn't make up for the fact that she can be quite exhausting. Her relationship with Elayne is mostly because they are the two of his three that were thrown together for an extended amount of time and it is the biggest problem I have with the three of them; Min just doesn't get that many interactions with them. Fain... I loved and I hated him. He definitely has ups and downs as a character thanks to his writing. I don't know if I would put him on my Top 10, but not higher than 8. Thom: He is great, without a doubt. But I have a feeling that he is partially overrated. I loved his character and he is very important. He makes my list, but doesn't get into the Top 3. Verin: She is a surprisingly strong and important character and has so many quality moments, that I can not not include her. I disliked her writing at times, but I can't hate her. Mat: He gets higher for me. His character arc is surprisingly flat, all things considered, but his overall personality and relationships get him into my Top 3. Perin: I want to include him in my Top 3. I feel him, as the other two ta'veren, on many levels. The only problem is the chase for Faile and because of the wall further down, I have to put him on Number 6 instead of the planned 5. Egwene: Her biggest flaw, as much as I hate Gawyn, can't keep her from my Top 3. (I actually like her relationship with Rand, including that moment.) Rand: I was going through depression while reading much of Wheel of Time and felt him on way too many levels. I can't keep him from Number 1. Nynaeve. Her relationship with Lan felt forced in the beginning, but she developed so freking much. I want to throw her into my Top 3 too, but then I have four in there and am repulsed by the idea of putting a tie on Number 4. So it's a tie on Number 3 with a Number 1 and 2. My choice instead of Graendal, and personally higher than Aviendha, is Min. I love her and my biggest complaint is that she is not given the chance to develop a proper relationship with the other two. That moment after Falme (was it?) where Elayne comes in and asks "You too?" is basically everything we get until Rand is bonded to all three, iirc. I don't recall much with Aviendha, but I think they would have developed a good relationship given the time to do so. They are both very strong willed women, despite what you might think during Min's time with Cadsuane because who can stand up to Cadsuane, and basically forces Rand to just admit his feeling for Min to himself. He tries very much to control himself, but before and during their ordeal to Dumai's Wells, he cannot deny that part of him anymore. And after Dumai's Wells when she had all reason to walk away from what Rand created with the Asha'man and what she had to go through thanks to him, she stays and does her best to help him. Not with politics or battleplans, but with himself and his destiny. I really get when people say that her part is not that substantial when compared to someone like Thom, but without her, Rand would have fallen much, much deeper earlier and it is because of her presence that we got Rand at his worst, which is one of the honestly most crucial parts of his influence on the world. For that time he is what everyone fears him to be. For that time he is but one push away from forsaking the Light. For that time we are doubting him the most and I for one was kind of waiting for him to tip over. But he was also at his most effective during this time. He did so many things that I was waiting for in previous books and then he went about them with this cold and calculative demeanor, it was chilling. That wouldn't have happened if not for Min.Killing Tam could had a similar effect, but that would have been done by Cadsuane and probably wouldn't have pushed him to the True Power. And yes, she is my Number 5. Honestly, everyone from Number 2 to 5 is interchangeable. My personal bias puts Min at Number 2, but Egwene and Nynaeve have more development and Mat is just the lovable asshole with a heart of gold you feel bad for not including in the higher echelons.
Nynaeve is a great choice for #1. Notice how she is the one person that Rand always trusts 1) to complement him when he needs to combine with the female half of the source, knowing she'll figure out what's needed, and be steadfast and capable, 2) she sees things his way as to goals and priorities, and 3) Rand never once mistrusts her motives. That pair's relationship is my absolute favorite in the book - no romance needed!
They are truly family.
so true
La W sorry all that braid pulling ruined Nynaeve for me.
@@abigailslade3824 Really? that is a bit shallow... But to each their own I guess. Who is your personal favourite?
Brechje Bakker what shallow because they repetitive description annoyed me how so? My favourite is Matt Cauthon hands down, Nynaeve did improve under Sanderson once all the braid pulling was reduced.
Meh, Moiraine deserved a top ten spot more than Fain did. Other than that pretty good choices.
That is exactly what I was thinking.
@@michaelh9649 p0pp
Was surprised by Moraine's omission, but also in disagreement with his choices for Mat. Character arc, he gets completely wrong at the end, Mat's has incredible character growth, suffering through the dagger poisoning, then getting memories of other man, and keeping his own character in the midst of that is incredibly strong. Also Mat and the one power phobia also morph's his acquisition of the fox head medallion and always doing things far away from his what he feels is safe or sane to help other is noble, but the fact hat he does do it, especially helping the aes sedai he helps is incredible character development and growth and strength, furthermore, Mat ends up being quit responsible, that is a massive change, he just retains his twinkle mischievousness, he goes from always running away and having to be hauled in to actually running into the danger by the end. How Nae'blis can't see this is dumbfounding to me, perhaps Mat just isn't dark enough. I'd shoot his character arc to 13 or 14 minimum.
Also uniqueness. Come on.. is his luck all Naeblis could think off and being a rogue trope..firstly, no one, and I mean no one is THAT lucky and how Jordan justifies and gives him is luck is totally a part of his character, making him one very unique rogue., then Mashaadar, the dagger, the memories - and his own natural skill - he is unique as they come despite his trope being such a familiar one, i'tsh ow the trope is executed that is so excellent, it feels fresh and compelling, despite being one of the most common - who does a rogue trope like Mat Cauthon? Rogue, turned General, turned prince - and you only give him a 4 out of 5? No sir, that's a 5/5 out of 5. This imo, takes him to 48/50
Nynaeve is my second favorite character only after Rand. While she's somewhat of an arrogant bully at the start of the series, she really becomes an amazing person by the end of it. She shares the single most monumental event of the series outside of Tarmon Gaidon with Rand, as she's the one person the Dragon Reborn trusted to share that with. She delivered the "will he ride alone?" speech. She's so far from perfect, and that's what makes her victories so satisfying.
And she showed during her testing to the Amyrlin and the 7sisters what it actually means to be Aes Sedai :)
Then Nynaeve tugged her braid.
The tugging of her braid always pissed me off. I wanted to just snatch her up and strangle her to death. All of them pissed me of them and there respect me because I have the one power shit. Get out of here!
But I did like nynaeve . She just pissed me off so much.
Finally im not second on of your lists
Nae'Blis.
Yoooo 😂
Brilliant
I wish I should smash a LOVE button instead of just the like button! Nynaeve as the number nearly made me jump of off my office chair for joy! I love her character and I feel like she’s doesn’t get the fan love she desires, she goes misunderstood and that’s a damn shame.
Nynaeve for best girl in all of fiction!
Yeah, Nynaeve was a good choice for Number 1.
No moraine hurts my soul
Same. Surprised me. She just missed the list honestly.
I was actually pretty ok with her not being on the list.
Moiraine is absent for nearly 2/3's of the series. Her development isnt overly dramatic even counting A New Spring. Her relationship with Lan is unchanging, the only real relationship development we see is between Moiraine and Rand (my absolute favourite relationship in the entire series, and possibly in any book I've ever read) and Moiraine and Eqwene.
Moiraine is still one of my all time favourite characters but it IS hard to put her in the top ten when she is absent for most of the series. Her reappearance at Merrilor, in fact the entire Merrilor section felt contrived and poorly executed. It felt like Sanderson just wanted to dump everything he could onto those pages and then move on as as quickly as possible.
Padan Fain is the great tragedy of Wheel of Time. Personally I think he should have been part of the Cleansing and died somehow in book 11. He was literally RIGHT THERE in Far Madding right before the cleansing! Cadsuane could have caught him, thus earning her legendary status with some on screen heroics for once. Perhaps Rand could have then used him as a human sieve and pumped the evil of Shadar Logoth through him or something, and he could have dissolved slowly in the process, except for the dagger which gets ends up back in the hole locking a little evil back in the bedrock ready for the next turning.
I was always worried that Padan Fain might end up to much like Gholam if he made it to Shayol Ghul and died during the sealing of the bore.
Still Brandon Sanderson had 3 extra books and he still couldn't do Fain justice. *sigh*
I almost thought you're number 1 was going to be Bela! I'm with you on Nynaeve. Well done ;)
My only problem with his argument for her though is that for the character arc he gives ger 15 mostly for her staying true to herself while molding herself as she needs (becoming Aes Sedai, etc.) as her goals/values which never really change.
Yet, for pretty much the same exact reason he only gives 10 to Mat. You can say the same things about him, he also stays true to himself while molding himself as he needs (becoming general), and he doesn't actually always takes his responsabilities and duties as seriously as he needs at the start compared to the end, I mean he did take the dagger at the beginning, and at the end he's taking initiatives to help.
On top of that, while it's an artificial change to his character, the things the dagger do to him ARE part of his character arc and so in the end it's not even right to say he's the same from beginning to end. If that were the case, why is he many people's least favorite character at the beginning of the series and then their favorite later on?
I think his bias is what leads him to give 15 to his personal favorite character for very simiar reasons to the one for which he gives only 10 to Mat...
Love Nynaeve. I just wish she would have put Egwene back in her place.
Egwene was Amyrlin. Nynaeve had to defer to her.
@@BradJames83 Egwene grew arrogant and chaotic
@@IchibanOjousama No, she knew exactly how to lead.
@@BradJames83 No, she grew power hungry and believed she was the person who was supposed to check Rand's power and it was a ridiculous and idiotic thing to believe.
@@FolkSHADE Indeed.
To consider a character change, you must consider what the character's thoughts and beliefs were about their world and environment, not simply circumstances. Mat's changing circumstances made him realize that while he has seen adventure, adventure isn't as glamorous or as fun as he originally thought. He learns that nobles aren't all bad, which is kind of a prejudice he holds earlier in the series. He forces others to look at things in a new way, because he is able to bridge the gap between the common folk and the high born. He also forces some stubborn women to learn to be more humble when he saves them and they fail to thank him time and again. Early in the series, Mat would skip responsibility if he could get away with it back in Emond's Field and he starts that way on the adventure, but he certainly takes it on less and less reluctantly. I think the major change is learning that adventure, heroes, and the world are not all that glamorous or fun. I also think obtaining the memories of great captains and fighters from ages past had an impact on him, but it's subtle. It's the difference between being a kid and growing up. On the surface, what we get, is the growth of Mat over time. Perrin and Rand change in much the same way, but their catalysts were much more dramatic than Mat's. Theirs felt to me scarier, while Mat's even though he's a leader in battle, seemed always to have an edge of fun, which is why I think you don't see the change.
This is spot on! As well - Mat's loyalty to his associates is second to no one, even the compulsion of pure evil couldn't curb.
Absolutely agree with this. Also I think because Mat consistently underestimated *himself* so much, even more so than Perrin, the readers often do so too. In Carhien he wants to escape responsibility by just running away from an important battle. Before the start of the Last Battle he 'escapes' responsibility not because he wants to run away, not because he refuses to do work: he works quite hard in all kinds of ways, training new recruits etc - he just refuses to compromise his principles by ordering execution just because that's what the Seanchan culture would expect of him. I think Mat has an enormous character arc but also remains true to his core self from within, very similar to Nynaeve actually
"Alternate WOT ending"?! I see what you did there Mr. Blis.
The “Alternate Wheel of Time Ending” whiteboard in the background is so meta and funny because for someone who doesn’t get the joke it must sound like complete nonsense.
1. Matrim Cauthon
2. Rand al'Thor
3. Demandred (I know he has no PoV chapters but fighting him is what made Memory of Light so compelling for me)
4. Lan Mandragoran
5. Perrin Aybara
6. Moiraine Damodred
7. Rodel Ituralde
8. Thomdril Merrilin
9. Lanfear
10. Verin Mathwin
Mine is pretty different from yours...
No Telmanis?😭
That is a good list, about what I would have put down.
1. Rand
2. Siuan
3. Loial
4. Tam
5. Thom
6. Noal
7. Birgitte
8. Moraine
8. Androl/Logain
9. Perrin
1o. Mat
Bonus: Verin, Hopper, Ruarhc.
I think you might be missing something about Fain. It seemed to me, with all Rand’s talk of destroying the Dark One, that Fain was being set up by the Pattern to “ascend” as a new DO since the pattern can’t survive without one. Once Rand settled one sealing and not destruction, and then did that, Fain was no longer needed in the Pattern. I think that was the reason he was ended so anti-climatically. That’s just my 2¢. Great video as always.
Couladin069 the way fain died was perfectly set up from the very first book, Matt is even told no one is as protected from Fains powers as he is.
Nynaeve is my favorite character, followed by Verin I think. I also liked Pevara and Androl. Pevara was unusual for a red and Androl was uniquely powerful while still being weak. He also had a good head on his shoulders.
Nynaeve is #1 yes and Pevara was the best Red
An Aviendha question and comment: 1. What will she do with the unexpected doting servant acquired during the Last Battle as a results of the Compulsion Rebound? 2. NB. If her children were conceived after Rand's body swop then genetically they will not be related to Elaine's children by Rand. The same will apply to any children had by Min.
No Moiraine?
Her character arc is amazing. Her role is crucial. Crucial! Her interactions with other characters is some of the best. Her exchanges with Thom in Tear remind me of Francie and John in To Catch A Thief. Her whole image is cool Aes Sedai control but she’s a puppet master riding a bull in a hurricane. She is THE best character in the series. Rand, Nyneave, Egwene, Perrin, Matt and even Thom not only wouldn’t be alive but would not be the people they became without her influence. With LAN’s input she showed them what was required of them at every level to survive and succeed.
Great work on the list but I feel Moiraine has been slighted.
You honestly think Fain is better than THE Aes Sedai? I find that staggering. The greatest servant the Westlands ever had.
Anyway. It’s all just opinion. Love the channel
Cheers
10.) Gaul
9.) Min Farshaw
8.) Moiraine Damodred
7.) Birgitte Trahelion
6.) Rodel Ituralde
5.) Verin Mathwin
4.) Rand al'Thor
3.) Perrin t'Aybara
2.) Nynaeve al'Meara
1.) Mat Cauthon
Birgitte and Matt are always my runaway two favorites. Imo no character has as strong a relationship between major characters that we actually get to see play put on page (instead of just hearing about) than Matrim Cauthon. He gets at least one major scene with just about every significant character besides Avienda (and even then we got a few minor scenes on thier way to Salidar just to kind of see how it plays out as well as her role in bringing Elayne around to met her debt to him and treat him better). If I had to create a list of my 10 favorite character interactions, Mat is easily in 6 of them.
I just finished a memory of light and I love your videos, amazing work ! Nynaeve is also my favorite character and I'll definitely miss her ! Thanks for the great content ! :)
those background posters are always worth a smile...
I'd have liked to have seen Elaine's baby's born
Plus #1 has one of the best, most tear filling, shout out “hell yeah” conversations in the books -
Master Aldragoran?
You were pointed out to me as a
merchant with a wide correspondence
by pigeon.
How may I help you, Aes Sedai? You
wish me to send a message for you via
my pigeons? It will be my pleasure.
A message to each merchant you
correspond with. Tarmon Gai’don is
coming soon.
That is nothing to do with me, Aes
Sedai. I’m a merchant.
But I will send your message.
Do you recognize this?
(He gasps)
I recognize it.
My name is Nynaeve ti al’Meara
Mandragoran. The message I want sent
is this. My husband rides from World’s
End toward Tarwin’s Gap, toward
Tarmon Gai’don. Will he ride alone?
(He trembles)
I will send your message, my
Lady, but it has nothing to do
with me. I am a merchant. Malkier
is dead. Dead, I tell you.
Lan told me once that Malkier lives
so long as one man wears the hadori
in pledge that he will fight
the shadow, so long as one woman
wears the ki’sain in pledge that
she will send her sons to fight the
Shadow.
I wear the ki’sain, Master Aldragoran.
My husband wears the hadori.
So do you. Will Lan Mandragoran
ride to the Last Battle alone?
(He starts laughing, shaking, crying)
He will not, my Lady. I cannot
stand surety for anyone else, but
I swear to you under the Light
and by my hope of rebirth and
salvation, he will not ride alone.
(She starts to turn away-)
May I offer you wine, my Lady?
My wife will want to meet you.
Thank you, Master Aldragoran, but I
have several more towns to visit today,
and I must be back in Tear tonight.
(He stares after her in confusion)
(The room is silent)
Well, Managan, Gorenellin,
do you still remember who you are?
Do you remember your blood?
Who rides with me for Tarwin’s Gap?
Managan: The Golden Crane flies
for Tarmon Gai’don.
Gorenellin: The Golden Crane flies
for Tarmon Gai'don!
(Aldragoran laughs)
The Golden Crane flies
for Tarmon Gai’don!
I was going to amend your list slightly and argue why Min was not on it but then you put my all time favorite at the top so I decided to let it go. ;-) As for her status as Aes Sedai, I almost feel she embidies the true intent of the role as "servant to all". I think she'll be vital in the restructuring of the channelers post MoL, when men can once again be allowed to channel openly without fear.
Though I would say that Min and Nynaeve plays a big part in Rand not getting worse than he gets at the end.
Yes I agree, Nynaeve is intelligent, strong personality, brave, kind, firm, loyal, passionate. Explosive character, but honest and straight forward. Not afraid to show love to Len and all close and dear to her.
rewatched, one of your best works
I disagree that Matt Cauthon doesn't change through the book. Matt learns responsibility through the series, he learns to care for others, he becomes less greedy, and much more cultured. His natural intelligence is gradually revealed through the series. I would consider Matt to be one of the most insightful in the series. He just keeps the best of it to himself.
I struggle with Sanderson's interpretation . Matt may choose course language but there is never any written indication (except Sanderson's own) that Matt is illiterate. Matt even talks about his favourite books, not yo mention the memories of the extremely educated people he now has access to. I would accept a shifting writing style as he moved through different people's memories, much like he and Fain do in their speech..
Matt is very smart. Sanderson can't tell the difference between a Rogue and Imbecile.
I cannot believe Perrin made the list. After his arc in going back to his village (in book 3 - I think?) he essentially became more and more of a love sick puppy until his sole motivation was his ridiculous toxic relationship with Faile. His arc went from a promising 10/10 to 2/10. From an interesting premise of a character, to a one-note overpowered bore. I cannot stress this enough, how Jordan romanticized his abusive, toxic relationship with Faile.
Personal preference aside, he really is not original at all. He is a typical gentle giant blacksmith. Talking to wolves - again, how is that original exactly?
I agree. Plenty of other books have talking to wolves / transforming into a wolf; the Belgariad and Mallorean for example. Also as you say the gentle giant blacksmith is very common in fantasy. Every time he said 'Nothing matters except Faile' I wanted someone to punch him in the face, then punch him again just to make sure he got the message. He goes from fairly sensible to not caring if the world ends as long as he gets her back.
I think Faile was the problem character, the whole Cha Faile thing was just stupid.
I have no idea how I've missed this video? Thanks for a great video, Nynaeve is one of my absolute favorites too!
Only recently discovered your channel. Great work man. This is probably the first of your lists I really disagree with completely, but it isn't suprising since most of this one is a matter of opinion. Perrin, for example, wouldn't even make my top 10. I do love Nynaeve at #1 though, love her character arc and development so much.
Ignoring everything else Mat was my favourite character. I always wanted to read more about him and yet he got less chapters than the rest. There is something about being morally that same country lad , albeit a rascal, thrown amongst danger, royalty, holders of magic and the fact that he stays himself that I love. He is a bad ass even when kinda freaking out. He kills very early on in the books and it doesn’t seem to weigh on him like it does Perrin and Rand. Plus, the amount of weird stuff that happens to him, his memories etc would generally mess someone up but he’s not very introspective so he just carries on. He saves Nynaeve and Egwene a few times and they never really thank him and still treat him like an idiot. Yet he loyally carries on doing it. I was disappointed in his relationship with Tuon. I wanted there to be a bit more love or more passion but it was more luck brought them together and kept them that way.
Mat is the best.
I love your
videos man. I’ve been reading WOT for the past 12 years and it’s always good to see someone promoting the community.
Thank you! I appreciate you watching!
Mat evolved from a selfish child to a hero. Id say his arc was pretty significant. RJ definitely ran him through the gamut of tropes. It was great to see him start as an immature trickster, then evolve toqards that reluctant hero trope and then finally fall into that brilliant tactician and leader.
Haven't even watched yet and expecting heated debate... creating good characters was one of Jordan's deepest strengths imo.... even minor characters, like the frog faced Simion, who's brother was lostt to the wolves in The Dragon Reborn was well written and interesting.... as minor a character as there is...
Yet still a good, distinct, well written character.
Good characters are arguably what Jordan did best.
Great list and video. Agree with most. I think Min was a better character, or at least just as good of a character as Aviendha, but I understand you had to make a list of 10 with soo many good characters. I would love to eventually see a video on Min's visions and what each one ended up meaning.
This was so fun to watch! I love the system you came up with and your explanations for your rankings. I don’t think rand would be so high up on my list personally. I just feel like once we get past the beginning of the series I felt fairly distanced from him and like I didn’t understand him as well as I did the other characters. I loved who got your number 1 spot - wasn’t expecting that!
Fun list , like your reasoning behind character.. I disagreed with placement of some but thats the beauty of this series , so many characters , so much development , people will be naturally drawn to different characters.
10. Verin.. when she reveals herself to egwene is one of my favorite moments..
9. Thom merrilin
8. Lan
7. Lanfear
6. Egwene, once shes in the white tower and her abilities suppressed yet still triumphs made me love her character and couldnt wait to get back to her.
5. Nynaeve . Haaaaaattted her the first third of this series and she slowly grew into one of my favorites.
4. Fain. I'm in the minority here but I liked his ending , looking unstoppable but something as simple as Matt being immune brings him down with ease. If he was the main antagonist I'd have been pissed but it's almost comical how easily he ended up being disposed of
3. Perrin never got bored with Perrin, I loved that even though rand is essentially a god , Perrin ends up becoming the most powerful character in the series with his master of the wolf dream.
2. Rand, his slow progressive dive Into insanity and his overcoming of it to become zen rand was beautiful.
1.Matt , I agree with your assessment on his growth as a character but outside the first 2 books there was noone I was more excited to get back to than matt the entire series.
Love your list. Absolute beauty of the books is we all love all these characters lol
I really appreciate that you not only went for who you liked best but used these categories. It's a great list imo (though it differs quite a bit from mine) and my first two are the same =P I loved how you described Nynaeve
10. Lan
9. al'Lan Mandragoran
8. King of Malkier
7. Nynaeve's husband
6. Lan
5. Moirane's first warder
4. Dai’Shan
3. Lan
2. Tai’Shar Malkier!
1. LAN!!
**honorable mention - Mandarb
You missed the Lord of the Seven Towers
Love the "Olver elected Dragon Reborn" thing, but I've always thought Olver was Gaidal Cain...
As for Graendal being the most interesting Forsaken, I agree completely. All of the Forsaken to survive the first few books were very intresting, with the exception of Moghedien. Honestly, when Moghedien was introduced as "The Spider" I was very excited to see her in action. We never actually got to see that, though. She just appeared out of nowhere, fought Nynaeve, and then her character for the rest of the series boiled down to "I hate Nynaeve"
As for Mat, I agree he's the most interesting character in the series. While complaining about how boring Crossroads of Twilight was, I remarked, "Except for Mat. Robert Jordan could write Mat watching paint dry and it would still be interesting"
YES I also think Olver is Gaidal Cain. There would've been so much potential for spinoffs if this book series instead of GoT would be filmed by HBO..
Glad I wasn't the only person who thinks he's Gaidal Cain
I totally agree with you about the breaking the seals thing between Egwene and Rand it was the one thing about her that felt inconsistent to me too!
Glad to see Nynaeve at number 1. She is the Best!
IMO Min should be a top 10, mostly cause of how ”normal” she is. Except for her title as Doomseer, she’s quite normal, And that’s what I love about her. And also what Rand loves about her. She’s a breath of fresh air, for us as readers and for Rand. She was often quite literally his lifeline to sanity, without her he would’ve collapses a long time ago, I’m sure of it. And yes I know her role is almost only to be Randa wife and biggest supporter, but I loved it cause that’s exactly what Rand needed. He didn’t need anybody powerful who could do anything he wished in the blink of an eye, he needed someone to talk to, someone who treats him like Rand, not dragon reborn. And that’s what she did. Also her seeing ability is crucial to the plot ofc, but just her character overall is amazing imo, she’s soo pure and kind. And also funny. Most of all that she just doesn’t care that Rand is the dragon reborn, like everybody else does. She’s life one of the biggest reasons to Randa development, if we only talk about character on character influence. She’s definitely not top 5, but in my list top 10 because of how unique she is and how important she was to Rands development
Next Top Ten video: The 10 best things Mat does (but it has 300 entries)
would watch a top 10 mat moments :p
I'd still put Rand 1, but Nynaeve is an easy top two for me as well. I love her so bloody much. Light! I must say that she didn't reach such high esteem in my mind until at earliest my first reread. When you reread understanding who Nynaeve is and what her core motivations are it completely changes the way you perceive her. She stopped being annoying and was more humorous and relatable in the first half of the series.
One significant thing I just realized is that Nynaeve and Rand brought me to tears, especially with audiobook rereads, more times than any other characters by quite a bit.
Ok this is my 3rd edit, but I want to comment on the whole list too. For the most part I'd have all the same characters as you. Elan/Ishammael/Moridin would replace Graendal as my lone forsaken, and he may be a bit higher. Also, I may have to kick Aviendha out for Lan. Otherwise I think we have very similar perspectives.
I understand about liking different characters more during the rereads. I've always loved Nynaeve and Egwene later in the books, but after a reread, my love and appreciation for Elayne skyrocketed and she is still in my top 10 today. Many don't like her for her noble attitude, but I think she was not only written very well, but comes off as a really strong and capable woman who isn't afraid to face adversity for the sake of her responsibilities or her friends.
Padan Fain certainly deserved a more epic end due to just how terrifying he was to both the light and shadow (let's not forget), but as you mentioned Sanderson finished the books and maybe he just didn't have what he needed to work in a better conclusion. He had 3 books, extensive notes apparently, but Jordan wasn't here anymore to consult. Sadly.
He played the role of the Necromancer.
I appreciate the GOT trolling in the background :-)
Michael Ziegler lolz. Imagine reading 14 books to get to that ending 2 chapters from the last page... 🤔
Great list. I would have included an allegorical category though. Like Mat's "a guy could get killed in there" or Rand's "death is lighter than a feather, but duty is heavier than a mountain". Just 5 points though or Lini might tie with Siuan and beat the best characters.
I agree with you about Perrin and Fail’s relationship. It is my personal favorite relationship in the books and I felt more joy when they got married then at any point in any relationship with any other characters.
Your alternate ending board made me LOL so damn hard
Bela had better be on this list.
Edited because of autocorrect changing Bela to Beta. Pfft.
My only complaint with this video is I would argue Egwene's relationship with everyone in the White Tower that develop from book 11 on should have bumped her relationship score up imo. The way she mentors and supports the novices/accepted, the way she slowly makes those above her respect her, everything.
Blood and bloody ashes Perrin before Mat!!! I´m gonna riot! Edit: Good, my queen is on the top!!!!
Thom Merrilin's intro in TEotW will always be one of my favorites of any character introductions in a story.
How RJ/Sanderson wrapped up Fain's plot line was absolutely frustrating. So much potential to end in such a weak way.
Had to be done. Fain was OP as fuck and had to be dealt with but couldn't be seen as big a threat as The Dark One.
It made perfect sense Matt was the only one who could stand against him even his picking up the knife was lucky.
I always felt the love story between Nyneave and Lan to be very forced. "I love you." "I can't love you" "you saved my life, let's get married!" "Kay."
Even if Branson Sanderson struggled with writing Mat, I think the character voice was much more distinctive in Brandons part. He did a fantastic job with that.
Mat is a completely different man than the boy that left the Two Rivers. He goes from being the one who sneers at heroes and constantly and deliberately shirks responsibility to begrudgingly, but consistently, stepping up when needed eventually becoming the 2nd or 3rd man to be mentioned in the ballad of the Last Battle. I have no idea how you're marking him down for character arc
And giving Perin a full one, despite him more or less not changing in the least.
I totally agree with you concerning Verin, Perrin and Egwene.
The characters like Elaida and Egwene were 'touched' by the evil that possessed Padan Fain. Which Fain talks about in one of his point of view chapters.
Great list! This really made me want to reread the series... so many great characters, and Nynaeve might be my favorite fictional character of all time.
Nae'blis you don't know how much I believe in your character assessment!! I would definitely put nynaeve in the first spot too......I absolutely adore her!!
Had to pause the video to say I completely agree about Verin. I roleplayed an Aes Sedai for a while in Second Life, way back when I think, only through book 5 was out, and played a member of the brown solely because, even then, Verin was an intriguing character. Back to watching.
great idea for the playlists!! im currently finishing the last book for the first time
Love that Nynaeve is number 1 - she has always been my absolute favourite character and I can't wait to see how she is portrayed in the TV series. Great list :)
Me at the beginning of the video: "I bet Nynaeve wins #1"
Me when you announce Rand as #2: "Knew it!"😏
Very interesting list! I just thought when talking about Verin's relationships, you would mention her relationship with Tomas, her Warder. A bit of a missed opportunity, but I guess some things can slip one by.
If I've read the series once I'd have probably cursed you about Nynaeve's first position; but having read it several times for me she's the #1 character as well - she's the only person from book 1 to book 14 to stand her ground regardless of the consequences and protect the people she loves. However not including Moiraine, taking in account her enormous influence on the majority of the other main characters I would say is a miss
He rated Moraine on the same scale and I guess her total score was below 41.
For a moment I thought you'd omit Nynaeve for Bela... /s
Anyway, I agree with a lot of stuff here, and you had some great insights about the characters that I seldom hear, like with how just because a character falters in judgment, they aren't badly written but rather human. The difference between that and simply poor twists (like you say, Egwene not talking to Rand) is important. I also liked how you treated my favourite, Aviendha; I love her to bits but unfortunately she has a secondary role through most of it, serving as part of other plots rather than her own.
Finally, for me it's also kind of obvious that a few characters suffered as Brandon Sanderson took over. Now don't get me wrong, I really think he was a good choice for the most part, and his passion was obvious, but I think he just either knew too little about some character plans or things fizzled out. Many of the small critiques and inconsistences that I have, come from the final books. That said, I am also a big fan of slower writing, and RJ certainly had that quality to his writing to a larger degree.
I agree with the assessment of Sanderson's writing. I think he did a fine job overall and I wasn't disappointed in the overall story, but he did let me down with some characters and the incredibly fast-paced writing style. The characters that he ruined most for me were Mat and Aviendha. He just didn't seem to capture their voices in the same way. I'm about to reread the last few books so I'll get another closer look at it to see if I still feel that way or if there are others I also am disappointed in. Those were the two that instantly struck me though.
Aviendha is such a bitch tho
Bela has wings, shits fire, burns Tar Valon to the ground. Also, Olver is elected Dragon Reborn?!
That's not how the story goes!
(That's why it's an alternate ending)
Tom seventh? Well, that made me be one of those four for whom everyone wonders who they are.
Ok, so I get the choices for sure. I think if I was throwing out my own list, I might end up dropping Graendal, Verin, Egwene(maybe). I might have shot for Logain, Androl, Loial. Taim was pretty fantastic as well. I just finished the series and loved the damn thing. Thanks.
See there are so many great characters it is hard to really even narrow them down. Moirane, Gaul, Hopper and twenty five more...I would end with fifteen tenth spots.
About Padan Fain. I think that his role was clearly completed. He is owner of separate dark power. Evil, dark, but separated to the DO. End his role in this history was to make Rand understand how to clean Saidin. Both dark powers was killing each other inside Rand. It's very similar to the power of Light. One Source - two different powers - Saidin and Saidar. Darkness had the power of DO and power of Shadar Lagoth.
Loyal IS THE BEST CHARACTER NO DEBATE😤
Excited to see Matt in the show. Oh, you sweet summer child.
Very interesting ideas although my own grading would be much different. Really enjoy your material.
Really great list, man. I agree with most of it.
I would have found a place for faile, (sp) I know I'm probably the oddball there, but to me she is everything I like about a woman. Strong, intelligent, willfull, pretty. She reminds me of my sister's.
Oh wow - for me Faile is one of the very few characters in any book when I often caught myself shaking my head at her sheer unwillingness to accept others' opinions/points of view... the Faile/Perrin relationship is also a headscratcher to me.
Having said that this is probably due to my real-life people preference:-)
As a point of interest... Who did you find the most annoying?
My only disagreement is Matt's story arch score. I'd have given him at least 13 if not a full 15. But I understand your perspective
What music are you using for your intro? I’ve tried finding it but can’t. Haha.
Matt Cauthon hands down, Tigranes, Thom, Moiraine, Verin, Cadsuane, Birgitte, Loial, Noam, Satelle, Min.
Nynaeve is my favorite, also.
At the very end when egwane gets the flame of tarvalon it did sort of become a bit of a Mary Sue.
Perin for me gets MUCH lower points. 5 for Arc, 10 for uniqueness, 3 for story (He appears A LOT, but basically does nothing and helps the forces of Light in 0 ways.It's like he's a side quest), 5 for relationships and 0 for entertaining.He is the main thing that made reading the series so slow for me. He should not be on this list.
Egwene should never get anything more than 7 for entertaining.
You said this WOULDN'T be just your personal favorites, but then you just proceeded to name your personal favorites.
IMO: Mat > Rand > Nynaeve > Graendal > Egwene > Lanfear > Aviendha > Thom > Moridin > Cadsuane
The whiteboard quotes are always amazing
Egwene defending the White Tower was one of my most favorite moments in the entire series. My biggest problem with her (and Rand) was that they never talked; they just confronted each other. If they had gone all Two Rivers, most of the latter books could have been avoided.
To be fair Rand did try to talk to her towards the end she just wouldn't listen.
Egwene is my least favorite character
@@fluffypenguins Why? How can Faile not be your least favorite character?
@@rogaineablar5608 Faile is down towards the bottom of my list as well but I honestly just want to strangle egwene most of the time during the series
You made a list with 10 entries for Nynaeve!? Just kidding. That would be my list.
Rand reigns supreme for me; none of the other characters even come close.
1.) Rand
-His arc is beautiful and was entertaining throughout the entire series. Particularly his depression and descent into madness. The slog, as sloggy as it was, always picked up in the few and far between Rand chapters.
2.) Nynaeve
- Arguably the second best developed character and consistent character throughout the series, she was always true to her nature. Tempermental, but wise, aggressive but caring, and actually cared for and aided Rand in a way no one truly did, even when Rand was dangerous. When Moraine dragged him away from Two Rivers, she protested it. When Egwene or Elayne were childish, Nynaeve scorend her. When Rand was a dumbass, she let him know it. Lan and her relationship are hilarious. Her Aes Sedai trial in book 13 sold the deal for me.
3.) Perrin/Mat
-These two vacillate to me. From books 1-3, Perrin without a doubt. I felt Mat's dagger arc was a bit boring, but after book 3 or whenever he was healed, Mat shot right up. He was relatively consistent throughout the slog, and did the most of all the characters in my opinion, and also was, at least to me, the focus in those books. Books 11-13 also feature Mat's story heavily, especially related to Moraine, the Gholam, and he's finally interacting with Perrin again. Perrin, on the otherhand, has a few more ups and downs and is less of a consistent character. His goodness and reliability in 1-3 and his relationship with Elayne were highlights, as was his gradual change into a warrior and leader in books 3 and 4 and 5, especially beloved when he defends the Two Rivers. After the Wells, he doesn't do much in my opinion. When Faile is kidnapped, he meanders about looking for her for around 3 or so books, and even after that he doesn't do much until the Children of the Light, and then it's another tedious Wolf-Dream grind until he forges his hammer and gets shit done. Mat and Perrin then both fall in together in ranking, but I think Mat and his devious and rebellious nature, particularly towards Egwene, Elayne and Nynaeve when they are being arrogant bitches puts him above Perrin.
4.) Lan/Moraine
-These two go hand in hand, though seeing as Moraine dissapears for like 8 books I'd say Lan takes the cake. He's a character that foreshadows Rand, yet Lan embraces that side. He's our first introduction to a warder, radiates lethality, and never ceases to steal the mind of the reader when mentioned. He and Rand's reunion when Rand sees Nynaeve again was some damn fun reading, and his Golden Crane arc in the last two books is also good. It's unfortunate he's not in the books more, as he also dissapears for a bit. He and Nynaeve are an oddly perfect match. Moraine on the other hand is a mysterious and excellent character that is in the series from its infancy, and her impact is lasting. She introduces so many arcs, the One Power, etc. that it's hard not to appreciate her, despite the hatred she was shown from an early stage, in the later books when Rand is coming out of his madness. She just came back in book 14 so I'm excited.
5.) Gareth Byrne/Tam
-He gives off Dalinar Kholin vibes, he is similar to Tam as he is a rock of sorts as a character, very dutiful, serious, and honorable, and represents the best qualities of most people in the series. He and Siuan are funny, even though most of his arc was dragged out over the slog.
6.) Aviendha/Elayne/Egwene
-At times these characters are great, at times they are not. I never truly have enjoyed Egwene besides a point of relationship with Rand, which fizzled out unexpectedly as the series progressed. Before meeting Aviendha, and way after Elayne, I still expected Egwene and Rand to marry. It was hinted at a LOT in the early novels and reciprocated, and it just fizzled out. I especially didn't like her stupidity when dealing with Rand, or the slog arcs. Her sabotage of the White Tower was interesting, as is her dynamics with the TOWER Aes Sedai and the Forsaken. The Wise Ones were also pretty neat. Aviendha on the other hand was interesting from start to finish. The clash of cultures between Rand and her Aiel ways was fascinating, and their eventual love and somewhat lorebreaking gate-way-to-seanchan-even-though-you-didnt-know-there-was-a-continent-there was fun. I felt her arc was stalled with the bowl of winter and subsequent stories, but then her return and becoming a Wise One was great. She faded from what seemed to be a Faile-like prominent character to almost a Gareth-Bryne level side character which is dissapointing. Elayne serves as a royal tie to Rand, a connection to Thom, a humor to Mat, and all around is interesting. Her slog arc was boring as all hell and I don't even remember it.
7.) Ishamael
-The overall antagonist besides Lews Therin, representing the worst of him, and forced to endure the wheel for eternity alongside him. His arc from overshadowed Elan --> Logical, not evil Forsaken --> Mad, hateful, evil Forsaken --> Cold, tired and nihilistic Forsaken was great.
9.) Lews Therin Teramon
-He's not fleshed out enough for me to truly love him, but his interactions with Rand and general story is fucking amazing. I would not mind you sharing my head, were you not so blatantly mad.
I was so happy with your number one pick. I hated her at the beginning, but absolutely loved her by the end. Maybe hate is too strong of a work. But, you understand.
I think you should do some "Character Assassinations" critiquing WOT characters both Light and Dark sides in the WORST possible light. (NOT criticising the writing style, because that's been done, but attacking the Characters themselves as if they were a politician you dont like 🤣)
Yes! Of course Nynaeve!
I like how the EF5 are almost perfectly matched D&D characters. Mat is a Rogue, Perrin is a cross between a Druid and a Barbarian, and Rand plays an amalgamation of several, though probably most notably a Paladin, but with elements of Sorcerer and Monk as well.
rand’s incredible skill with the sword would make him more of a fighter than a monk imo
My favorite is Mat, but I agree that Nynaeve is totally the best character. I don't like her in some books and love her in others.
how can you not like her, best girl
I definitely bump Aviendha and Graendal for Moiraine and Lan... assuming New Spring material qualifies for this list...otherwise they may not have enough POV moments. And my own personal favs that might bump Verin are Min or Cadsuane, but I’m not sure if they could really hang if I put them to your test
Androl Genhald. Nuff said.
Wolf Dream (and many of the early dream segments in general are often boring for me) and i dont dislike Faile, its not her that makes Perrin chapters boring, its Perrin moaning about EVERYTHING that makes those chapters boring to read.
Another excellent one! Bravo!
100% agreed about Nynaeve. What a wonderful, strong, flawed but kick ass character.
Yes! Nynaeve is my favorite.
Graendal: I think her point of views actually subtracted from her character over all. Like this we have the sinful yet mastermind character that would have been better with more mystery.
Aviendha: I love her back and forth with Rand, but that doesn't make up for the fact that she can be quite exhausting. Her relationship with Elayne is mostly because they are the two of his three that were thrown together for an extended amount of time and it is the biggest problem I have with the three of them; Min just doesn't get that many interactions with them.
Fain... I loved and I hated him. He definitely has ups and downs as a character thanks to his writing. I don't know if I would put him on my Top 10, but not higher than 8.
Thom: He is great, without a doubt. But I have a feeling that he is partially overrated. I loved his character and he is very important. He makes my list, but doesn't get into the Top 3.
Verin: She is a surprisingly strong and important character and has so many quality moments, that I can not not include her. I disliked her writing at times, but I can't hate her.
Mat: He gets higher for me. His character arc is surprisingly flat, all things considered, but his overall personality and relationships get him into my Top 3.
Perin: I want to include him in my Top 3. I feel him, as the other two ta'veren, on many levels. The only problem is the chase for Faile and because of the wall further down, I have to put him on Number 6 instead of the planned 5.
Egwene: Her biggest flaw, as much as I hate Gawyn, can't keep her from my Top 3. (I actually like her relationship with Rand, including that moment.)
Rand: I was going through depression while reading much of Wheel of Time and felt him on way too many levels. I can't keep him from Number 1.
Nynaeve. Her relationship with Lan felt forced in the beginning, but she developed so freking much. I want to throw her into my Top 3 too, but then I have four in there and am repulsed by the idea of putting a tie on Number 4. So it's a tie on Number 3 with a Number 1 and 2.
My choice instead of Graendal, and personally higher than Aviendha, is Min. I love her and my biggest complaint is that she is not given the chance to develop a proper relationship with the other two. That moment after Falme (was it?) where Elayne comes in and asks "You too?" is basically everything we get until Rand is bonded to all three, iirc. I don't recall much with Aviendha, but I think they would have developed a good relationship given the time to do so. They are both very strong willed women, despite what you might think during Min's time with Cadsuane because who can stand up to Cadsuane, and basically forces Rand to just admit his feeling for Min to himself. He tries very much to control himself, but before and during their ordeal to Dumai's Wells, he cannot deny that part of him anymore. And after Dumai's Wells when she had all reason to walk away from what Rand created with the Asha'man and what she had to go through thanks to him, she stays and does her best to help him. Not with politics or battleplans, but with himself and his destiny. I really get when people say that her part is not that substantial when compared to someone like Thom, but without her, Rand would have fallen much, much deeper earlier and it is because of her presence that we got Rand at his worst, which is one of the honestly most crucial parts of his influence on the world. For that time he is what everyone fears him to be. For that time he is but one push away from forsaking the Light. For that time we are doubting him the most and I for one was kind of waiting for him to tip over. But he was also at his most effective during this time. He did so many things that I was waiting for in previous books and then he went about them with this cold and calculative demeanor, it was chilling. That wouldn't have happened if not for Min.Killing Tam could had a similar effect, but that would have been done by Cadsuane and probably wouldn't have pushed him to the True Power. And yes, she is my Number 5. Honestly, everyone from Number 2 to 5 is interchangeable. My personal bias puts Min at Number 2, but Egwene and Nynaeve have more development and Mat is just the lovable asshole with a heart of gold you feel bad for not including in the higher echelons.