Delve into the captivating world of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series with the novel ‘Feet of Clay’ (1996). This article will offer you an insight into the underlying themes, the humor, and the uniquely engaging storytelling style of this novel, helping you determine if it aligns with your reading preferences. Whether you are an ardent fan of fantasy novels, a lover of satire, or someone who enjoys intriguing detective stories, ‘Feet of Clay’ has something for everyone. Read on to find out if this is the next book you need to add to your reading list.
What’s the Plot of Feet of Clay (1996)?
Feet of Clay is a fantasy novel by Terry Pratchett, part of his Discworld series. The story revolves around Commander Sam Vimes of the Ankh-Morpork City Watch as he attempts to solve three mysteries. The first mystery involves a series of murders where two old men have been poisoned. The second one is about the poisoning of the Patrician, Lord Vetinari, who is slowly being killed by a mysterious toxin. The third mystery is the appearance of golems (creatures made from clay that are used for labor) around the city who are behaving in strange ways, including one that seems to have gone rogue.
As Vimes and his diverse team unravel the threads, they discover a plot to overthrow Lord Vetinari. It turns out that the golems have been used by a secret society, called the “Unique and Supreme Lodge of the Elucidated Brethren of the Ebon Night,” to make new golems, one of which is intended to replace the Patrician. Vimes and his team manage to foil the plot, save the Patrician, and bring the murderers to justice. The story combines elements of mystery, fantasy, humor, and social commentary, and explores themes like power, prejudice, and the idea of what makes someone or something human.
Main Characters
Feet of Clay, written in 1996 by Terry Pratchett, is part of the Discworld series and features several key characters.
1. Sam Vimes: As the Commander of Ankh-Morpork City Watch, Sam Vimes is the protagonist of the story. He is an experienced, shrewd, and cynical policeman with a strong sense of justice. Despite his gruff exterior, he cares deeply about his city and its inhabitants.
2. Carrot Ironfoundersson: A tall, muscular human who was raised by dwarves, Carrot Ironfoundersson is a Captain in the City Watch. He is known for his simplistic outlook on life and his unwavering belief in the good nature of people. His inherent charisma and leadership skills often help to resolve complex situations.
3. Angua von Überwald: Angua is a werewolf and the only female member of the City Watch. She is in a relationship with Carrot. Her werewolf abilities are frequently useful in solving cases, and she often acts as a moral compass for the team.
4. Detritus: A troll who serves in the City Watch, Detritus is extremely strong and durable but not very intelligent. However, he has a kind heart and is always willing to put himself in harm’s way to protect others. His character often provides comic relief.
5. Cheery Littlebottom: Cheery is a dwarf and the Watch’s first forensic alchemist. Though born female, Cheery chooses to live as a male, as is typical for dwarves in Discworld. This character is key to the plot, as Cheery’s knowledge of alchemy helps the Watch solve the mystery of the poisoned Patrician.
6. Lord Vetinari: The Patrician of Ankh-Morpork, Lord Vetinari is the city’s ruler. He is known for his cunning, strategic mind and his ability to manipulate people and events. In Feet of Clay, Vetinari is poisoned, and his illness is a central part of the plot.
7. Dorfl: An important character in the plot, Dorfl is a golem who gains self-awareness and freedom. His role raises questions about the nature of free will and individuality in the Discworld universe.
These characters, with their unique personalities and backgrounds, add depth, humor, and intrigue to the storyline of Feet of Clay.
Main Themes of Feet of Clay (1996)
Feet of Clay delves into a variety of themes that meticulously intertwine the narrative. The most prominent theme is the exploration of power and its misuse. The book delves into how the privileged misuse their authority to oppress the less fortunate. This is explicitly seen through the portrayal of the golems, created beings denied basic rights and used as tools by their masters.
Another significant theme is identity and self-discovery. The golems, despite being programmed to follow orders, start to develop self-awareness and individuality, questioning their existence and purpose. This theme is also reflected in the character of Vimes, who grapples to understand his new identity as a member of the nobility.
The theme of prejudice and discrimination prominently resonates throughout the book, with both explicit and implicit biases against non-human species like the golems and trolls. Through this, Pratchett critically examines society’s ingrained prejudices and their detrimental impacts.
The book also explores the theme of mortality and vulnerability. Despite the characters’ power and invincibility, their fragility is exposed in their susceptibility to arsenic poisoning. This serves as a reminder of the inherent vulnerability of all beings, irrespective of their power or social status.
Lastly, Feet of Clay delves into the theme of justice, with the narrative intricately revolving around a murder mystery. It highlights the struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by those who are responsible for upholding justice, emphasizing the critical importance of truth and integrity in this pursuit.
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If you enjoyed reading “Feet of Clay” by Terry Pratchett, you might also appreciate other books from the Discworld series, as they share the same sarcastic humor, unique characters, and intricate plotlines.
1. “Mort” (1987): This is another fantastic entry in the Discworld series, introducing the character of Death’s apprentice. It’s full of Pratchett’s trademark wit and wisdom.
2. “Guards! Guards!” (1989): This is the book that introduced the City Watch, the group of characters prominent in “Feet of Clay”. It is full of comedy, satire, and a clever plot.
3. “Thud!” (2005): This is another book in the City Watch sub-series of Discworld. It offers a deeper exploration of the characters introduced in “Feet of Clay”, including fan-favorites like Sam Vimes and Carrot Ironfoundersson.
Outside of the Discworld series, you might also enjoy:
1. “Good Omens” (1990) by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman: This novel combines Pratchett’s humor with Gaiman’s imaginative storytelling, creating a unique tale about the end of the world.
2. “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” (1979) by Douglas Adams: Like Pratchett, Adams combines humor, satire, and science-fiction elements to create a unique and entertaining story.
3. “Going Postal” (2004) by Terry Pratchett: This book revolves around Moist von Lipwig, a con artist turned postmaster in the city of Ankh-Morpork.
4. “The Color of Magic” (1983) by Terry Pratchett: This is the first book in the Discworld series and provides an introduction to the universe’s unique blend of humor, fantasy, and satire.
5. “Neverwhere” (1996) by Neil Gaiman: If you enjoy Pratchett’s blend of humor, fantasy, and social commentary, you might also appreciate Gaiman’s work. “Neverwhere” is a dark, fantastical tale set beneath the streets of London.