Assassin’s Apprentice by Robin Hobb (1995) Summary of the Book
Assassin’s Apprentice, the first novel in Robin Hobb’s Farseer Trilogy, was published in 1995. It follows the life of a young noble, FitzChivalry Farseer, who is the illegitimate son of Prince Chivalry. Fitz is taken in and raised by his grandfather, King Shrewd, and his aunt, Lady Patience, as well as the court fool, Burrich. He is trained to become an assassin, and sets off on a quest to prove himself and discover his true identity.
Plot Summary
FitzChivalry Farseer is the illegitimate son of Prince Chivalry, who was disowned by the King. After his mother’s death, Fitz is taken in by King Shrewd and his court, who raise him as their own. He is trained as an assassin, and as he grows up Fitz begins to understand the harsh realities of life as a member of the royal court. He is sent on a mission to the Mountains, accompanied by Burrich, the court Fool, and Lady Patience, his aunt. He discovers more about his family and his true identity, and eventually returns to court with the knowledge that he is the rightful heir to the throne.
Main Teachings
Assassin’s Apprentice is a story of self-discovery, as Fitz learns more about his true identity and place in the world. It is also a story of loyalty and friendship, as Fitz forms close bonds with Burrich and Lady Patience. The novel also explores the theme of power and its corruptive nature, as Fitz is forced to make difficult choices in order to protect his family and friends. Finally, the novel is a story of resilience, as Fitz must overcome his troubles and find a way to survive in the harsh world of the royal court.
Interesting Facts
- The novel was originally published as a stand-alone novel, but was later re-released as the first book in the Farseer Trilogy.
- The novel was adapted into a six-part television mini-series in 1997.
- The novel was included in the list of 100 best fantasy novels of all time by The Guardian.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Assassin’s Apprentice about?
Assassin’s Apprentice is a novel by Robin Hobb, first published in 1995. It follows the life of a young noble, FitzChivalry Farseer, who is the illegitimate son of Prince Chivalry. Fitz is taken in and raised by his grandfather, King Shrewd, and his aunt, Lady Patience, as well as the court fool, Burrich. He is trained to become an assassin, and sets off on a quest to prove himself and discover his true identity.
How many books are in the Farseer Trilogy?
The Farseer Trilogy is a series of three novels written by Robin Hobb, which includes Assassin’s Apprentice, Royal Assassin, and Assassin’s Quest. The trilogy follows the life of FitzChivalry Farseer, a young noble who is trained to become an assassin.
Who wrote Assassin’s Apprentice?
Assassin’s Apprentice is a novel written by Robin Hobb, first published in 1995. It is the first novel in the Farseer Trilogy.
What is the main theme of Assassin’s Apprentice?
The main themes of Assassin’s Apprentice include self-discovery, loyalty and friendship, power and its corruptive nature, and resilience. Fitz must learn more about his true identity and place in the world, form close bonds with those around him, and overcome his troubles to survive in the harsh world of the royal court.
What are some interesting facts about Assassin’s Apprentice?
Some interesting facts about Assassin’s Apprentice include that it was originally published as a stand-alone novel, but was later re-released as the first book in the Farseer Trilogy. The novel was adapted into a six-part television mini-series in 1997, and was included in the list of 100 best fantasy novels of all time by The Guardian.