The False Prince

Carthyan history and lore play an essential role in The False Prince. To become Prince Jaron, the boys must understand the historical roots and struggles of the country. From diplomatic relations with neighboring countries like Avenia, to the regent system that advises the king’s court, the boys learn the customs and practices that have colored Carthya. Their history lessons show Carthya’s political situation and place in the world: “Fortunately for us, few cities in Carthya can be considered major, so it [is] easy to learn them. Unfortunately for Carthya, their contributions to the country are equally unimpressive” (83).

These lessons also foreshadow the reason Jaron goes into hiding as Sage: “‘Mistress Havala said that Eckbert was a peaceable ruler, at all costs. Carthya has avoided war for generations’” (205). It is later revealed that Eckbert is even willing to send away his own son to avoid war. The development of a rich country lore supports the plot and the theme of patriotism that run through the book.

The story world of The False Prince is riddled with violence. From the opening chapters, it is clear that Sage and his fellow orphans are subjected to regular physical harm: “His laughter [is] quickly followed up with a kick to my back that chase[s] my breath away.