Character Analysis Of Merlin In The Crystal Cave

In the book The Crystal Cave by Mary Stewart, the protagonist Merlin realizes that one word of his could frighten men such as Ambrosius. Unlike “normal” people, Merlin is gifted “the sight”. He inherits this from his mother, but she never uses hers to its full potential. Instead, she shuts it out and no longer use it. Until Merlin meets Galapas, he does not understand why he knows certain matters that he should not know. With the help of Galapas and the mystery of the Crystal Cave, Merlin starts to understand “his power”, and he realizes he is destined for more. As more and more people find out about Merlin’s sight, Merlin realizes his words can be more powerful than a sword. Merlin can see the future, and that frightens people. No one knows the future, and it is …show more content…
Merlin can use this information however he pleases. For example, if Merlin can see the future and knows who the future king will be, then he can manipulate the future (to a certain degree). He can give someone a heads up if he knows someone is going to invade a certain kingdom, help prevent an event from occurring, etc. Since he has this advantage, it does not matter the status of a person because they are all fearful of his gift. Another reason why people are scared of Merlin is because nobody can figure him out. He is not the “norm” during this time period. In this time period, men only have two choices. They can either take up a sword and fight or if they refuse to do so, then, they can join the priesthood. Merlin is an oddity. He refuses to do either one of those choice. Merlin is cunning, and (so far) gets himself out of any situation using his brains and not brawn. His words can be more valuable than a sword sue to his quick thinking nature. Lastly, people may be scared of Merlin because of some things he is capable of doing without fear. For example, when Merlin and Cadal are traveling in the woods, Merlin notices a shortcut. Cadal is