MC

Scythe_full_novel

SCYTHE

  • Author: Neal Shusterman

  • Genre: Dystopian Fiction

Dedication

  • For Olga (Ludovika) Nødtvedt: A faraway fan and friend.

Part One: Robe and Ring

Key Themes

  • Both innocence and guilt coexist in humanity. Gleaning is described as a necessary moral act, and it highlights the complexity of morality.

  • Gleaning vs. Killing: The terminology differentiates the act of taking lives as a service rather than punishment.

  • Scythes are considered sacred figures providing a societal service, thus garnering both respect and fear.

The Gleaning Journal of H.S. Curie

  • Importance of documenting deeds and emotions related to gleanings to preserve societal morals.

  • Humanity's emotions: remorse, regret, and sorrow are emphasized as essential human components.

Introduction of Citra Terranova

  • Scene introduction with Citra encountering a scythe for the first time, illustrating societal fear and reverence.

  • Family dynamics: Citra’s family reacts with shock and dread upon the visitor’s arrival.

  • Scythe Faraday arrives, revealing the interaction between the scythe and Citra’s family.

Scythe Faraday's Character

  • Portrayed as both ominous and dignified.

  • Uses culinary preferences as a way to disarm the family’s tension while he is present.

  • Introduces the themes of mortality, empathy, and the social contract surrounding gleaning.

Citra and Rowan's Relationship

  • Contrast: Citra is outspoken and confrontational, while Rowan is more reserved and empathetic.

  • Dynamic shifts as they both contend with the implications of becoming scythes and the mortality of others.

Training as Scythe Apprentices

  • Rigorous regimen: Physical training, martial arts, and weapon handling alongside academic knowledge about human nature and ethical considerations.

  • Scythe's Commandments: A strict moral code accompanying the role, promoting the tenants of non-bias and the sanctity of life.

Quota of Gleanings

  • Each scythe is required to perform a set number of gleanings annually, aiming to maintain societal balance and offer mercy through death.

Key Events

  • First Gleaning: The human experience of death is scrutinized through the eyes of Rowan and Citra, highlighting the emotional toll of their education.

  • Human connection: The meaningful interactions, such as providing comfort to those being gleaned, reflect on empathy and morality.

Scythes as Figures of Legend

  • Portrayal of scythes and their unique responsibilities in a post-mortal society, setting up complex relationships between power, morality, and the value of life.

The Gleaning Experience

  • Descriptive accounts of various gleanings elaborate on the emotional and ethical complexities involved, with Scythe Faraday as a guiding force.

  • Citra and Rowan's personal reflections illustrate their internal struggles with the idea of taking lives.

Conclusion

  • The narrative raises questions about morality, the necessity of death in an immortal world, and the heavy burden that comes with being a scythe.

  • Both students must grapple with their identities and moral philosophies in a society that has starkly redefined life and death.

In Chapter One of "Scythe," the story begins with Citra Terranova encountering a scythe for the first time. This moment highlights the societal fear and reverence that people have towards these figures. Citra's family is shocked and dreadfully reacts upon the arrival of Scythe Faraday. As the scene unfolds, Scythe Faraday is portrayed as both ominous and dignified, using culinary preferences to disarm the family's tension. The chapter introduces key themes, such as the coexistence of innocence and guilt, and sets the stage for the exploration of mortality, empathy, and the social contract surrounding the act of gleaning.