Steelheart

Steelheart shares many plot similarities to another well-known Sanderson work, Mistborn: The Final Empire. Identify similarities and differences between these plots and how they address themes surrounding oppressive tyrants.

How does the novel’s four-part structure define miniature narrative arcs within the overall plot, and what is the purpose of each?

Sanderson has three “laws of magic,” one of which states that “the limitations of a magic system are more interesting than its capabilities” (“Sanderson’s Laws of Magic.” The Coppermind – 17th Shard, 4 Jan. 2021). How does Sanderson incorporate this law in Steelheart, and how does it affect the plot and characters?

How do Epics and the Reckoners compare in their organizational structure and societal impact? What are the thematic implications of their similarities?

Compare Prof’s and Megan’s reasons for hiding their abilities and how each relates to how they believe the world should operate.

How do David and Megan’s preferences toward handguns or rifles reflect their core motives and assumptions?

Does Steelheart’s governance reflect the values of a patriarchal society? Use details from the novel to explain why or why not.

The novel takes place in dystopian Chicago. Choose three cultural details that emphasize the “otherness” of David’s world, and describe their effect on the novel’s atmosphere.