Exploring Commonly Accepted Plot Holes in The Wheel of Time Series

The The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan is one of the most extensive and beloved epic fantasies of recent decades. However, as with many complex works of fiction, it is not without its share of plot holes. This article will explore some of the commonly accepted plot holes in the series and how readers have interpreted them.

The Literacy of Emond's Fielders

One of the most frequently cited plot holes involves the literacy of the Emond's Fielders. These individuals live in a predominantly agrarian society where, for the most part, they have limited access to books and formal education. Yet, nearly all of them are literate. This stands in stark contrast to the reality of many agrarian societies in history, where literacy rates were much lower. Here are some interpretations and common explanations for this phenomenon:

Background and Cultural Context

The Wheel of Time series is set in a world that bears similarities to various historical and cultural settings, but it is not a direct representation of any particular historical period. In the context of the fictional world of The Wheel of Time, literacy could be a result of the unique social, political, or cultural dynamics that exist within Emond's Field and the surrounding region. For example:

Education by the Wisdom: Nynaeve, the Wisdom of Emond's Field, plays a crucial role in the instruction of her community. Dominance of the Wisdom: In the villages, the Wisdom is often revered and holds significant influence, maybe due to her role as a healer and educator. Her teachings might have reached nearly all the children. Mentorship by Egwene: As Egwene, with her family's ties to the community’s leadership, is also educated, she may have passed this knowledge to younger members of the village.

Common Reader Interpretations

Many readers of the series have their own theories to explain this seemingly anachronistic literacy rate:

Centralized Education: The Emond's Fielders might have a centralized or communal form of education that was efficient and widespread, perhaps funded or supported by the local government or Wisdom. Books and Knowledge: The plot might include the existence of books and knowledge that are not readily observable to the reader, such as secret libraries or scrolls. Historical Fiction: Jordan acknowledged in interviews that he drew inspiration from various historical and literary sources, and that the world of The Wheel of Time might not strictly adhere to real-world historical accuracy.

Elayne Learning the Bonding Wave

Another commonly discussed plot hole involves Elayne, a character who is a Wise One in training. The Bonding Wave, a powerful earth magic, is a significant part of the world of The Wheel of Time. Many readers wonder how Elayne, who is not mentioned as being particularly trained or knowledgeable in earth magic, could suddenly learn to Bond the earth. Here are some potential explanations:

Life-or-Death Scenarios

During times of great crisis, characters in the Wheel of Time often exhibit sudden growth in their abilities. This can be attributed to the duress and urgency of the situation:

Natural Skills Emerging: Elayne, like many characters in The Wheel of Time, might have a latent skill that emerges under pressure. Her inherent aptitude for certain aspects of earth magic might have come to the fore in a life-threatening situation. Training and Experience: Even without explicit training, Elayne could have gained practical experience through observing and assisting other Wise Ones, especially during significant events like the sealing of the Dark One's prison. Supporting Characters: Other characters, such as Mat, might have subconsciously taught Elayne through their actions and presence, allowing her to Bond the earth without formal instruction.

Authorial Intent

Robert Jordan’s intent, as revealed in interviews and letters, was to create a world where magic (channeling) is a natural and universal ability. Readers might interpret the sudden Bonding of Elayne as a natural progression of her character and her connection to the land of the Seanchan. This could be seen as a way to emphasize the interconnectedness of the characters and their environment:

Mystical Forcing: The c?ng force (magic) within the Seanchan, which is part of their culture, might have compelled Elayne to learn the Bonding Wave in order to protect her people or prevent a larger disaster. Muidershine Influence: The stone Muidershine, a powerful earth magic relic, might have played a role in Elayne's sudden ability, acting as a catalyst or trainer for her.

Suggestions for Further Exploration

While these explanations attempt to address the plot holes, the world of The Wheel of Time invites further exploration. Readers and fans of the series often engage with the work through fan fiction, academic analysis, and discussions on forums and social media. These efforts not only help to address perceived plot holes but also deepen the understanding and appreciation of the world, characters, and themes:

Fan Fiction and Discussion

Fan fiction and online discussions are great resources for addressing plot holes and driving fan engagement. Here are a few suggestions on how to explore the series further:

Writing Fan Fiction: Create fan fiction that explains the literacy of Emond's Fielders or the sudden Bonding of Elayne. This can help you understand the deeper intricacies of the world and the characters. Podcasts and Videos: Participate in or create podcasts or videos that discuss these plot holes and other aspects of the series. This can help engage with the community and improve your understanding of the material. Writing Essays and Reviews: Write essays or reviews that delve into the themes and literary techniques used by Jordan. This can help enrich your appreciation of the series and improve your analytical skills.

The Wheel of Time series is a vast and complex work of fantasy literature, and its many plot holes invite you to engage with the text in a deeper and more interactive way. By exploring these holes and the interpretation of them, you can enhance your love for the series and the broader field of fantasy literature.