Were there more than 13 Forsaken?
The answer to the question of whether there were more than 13 Forsaken is yes, during the War of Power, there were dozens of Forsaken leading the armies of the Shadow, although over time, the term “Forsaken” came to refer specifically to the 13 most powerful among them who were caught in the sealing of the Bore and imprisoned with the Dark One. These 13 Forsaken, including Ishamael, Lanfear, and Demandred, were the most prominent and powerful servants of the Dark One, each with their own unique abilities and strengths that made them formidable opponents in the struggle against the forces of good.
Introduction to the Forsaken
The Forsaken are central to the mythology of The Wheel of Time, serving as the primary antagonists and embodying the power and menace of the Shadow. Understanding the Forsaken and their roles is crucial to grasping the complexity of The Wheel of Time series.
Who are the Forsaken?
The 13 Forsaken are: Demandred, Ishamael, Lanfear, Mesaana, Semirhage, Balthamel, Aginor, Asmodean, Rahvin, Sammael, Be’lal, Graendal, and Moghedien.
FAQs about the Forsaken
1. How many Forsaken are there in The Wheel of Time?
There were originally dozens, but the term Forsaken refers specifically to the 13 most powerful.
2. Who was the strongest Forsaken?
Ishamael, or the Betrayer of Hope, is considered the most powerful and dangerous of the Forsaken.
3. What is the order of the Forsaken?
The Order of the Forsaken is not directly related to the hierarchy among the Forsaken themselves but refers to guardians of the remains of the Brotherhood’s old kingdom.
4. Did any Forsaken survive?
Yes, several Forsaken survived, including Demandred, Semirhage, and Aran’gar (the reincarnation of Balthamel).
5. Which Forsaken were resurrected?
Some dead Forsaken have been resurrected in new bodies, including Osan’gar (the reincarnation of Aginor) and Aran’gar (the reincarnation of Balthamel).
6. Is Selene a Darkfriend?
Yes, Selene is revealed to be Lanfear, one of the Dark One’s most powerful servants.
7. Is Ishmael the Dark One?
No, Ishamael is one of the Forsaken and the strongest lieutenant of the Dark One, not the Dark One himself.
8. Which Forsaken trained Rand?
Asmodean taught Rand some useful things, although he was not a very good teacher.
9. How powerful are the Forsaken?
The Forsaken are far more powerful than the Aes Sedai, possessing forgotten weaves and abilities.
10. How did Rand switch bodies?
Rand switched bodies with Moridin during the Last Battle due to their mental link.
11. How did Moiraine lose her power?
Moiraine’s link to the True Source was severed by the Dark One.
12. Are the Seanchan evil?
The Seanchan are considered villains due to their practice of enslaving girls who can channel.
13. Is Rand more powerful than the Forsaken?
Rand’s power can rival that of the Forsaken, especially as he develops his abilities.
14. Who is the real Dragon Reborn?
Rand al’Thor is the reincarnation of Lews Therin as the Dragon Reborn.
15. Is Mazrim Taim a Forsaken?
Mazrim Taim was named M’Hael by Moridin and acted as a Forsaken, but his origins and true nature differ from the original 13 Forsaken.
The Forsaken play a pivotal role in the epic saga of The Wheel of Time, embodying the Dark One’s power and the eternal conflict between good and evil. Their complex characters, unique abilities, and pivotal roles in the story make them fascinating subjects of study for any fan of the series.