Unraveling Lara Croft’s Quest: What She Seeks in Rise of the Tomb Raider

In Rise of the Tomb Raider, Lara Croft isn’t just tomb raiding for kicks. She is driven by a profound personal mission: to validate her late father’s research on the mythical Divine Source, a powerful artifact said to grant immortality. Haunted by his discredited work and subsequent suicide, Lara embarks on a perilous journey to prove his theories were correct and uncover the truth behind the legend of Kitezh, a lost city said to be touched by the Divine Source. Her quest is intertwined with both a desire for redemption for her father and a need to understand her own legacy within the Croft family’s history of exploration and discovery.

The Weight of a Legacy: Lara’s Motivations

Lara’s journey in Rise of the Tomb Raider is far more emotionally resonant than a simple treasure hunt. The core of her motivation is rooted in the complex relationship she had with her father, Lord Richard Croft. His obsession with the Divine Source led to his ostracization from the academic community and ultimately, to his tragic death. Lara, initially skeptical, begins to uncover evidence suggesting his research wasn’t the delusion it was portrayed to be. This fuels her determination to clear his name and understand the secrets he dedicated his life to uncovering.

The organization known as Trinity, a secretive and powerful force, also seeks the Divine Source. This adds a layer of urgency to Lara’s quest. She recognizes the danger of the artifact falling into the wrong hands and the potential for catastrophic consequences if Trinity’s ambitions are realized. Therefore, her search becomes not only about personal validation but also about protecting the world from a powerful and ruthless enemy. The game explores the tension between Lara’s personal vendetta and her growing responsibility to prevent Trinity from exploiting the Divine Source for their own nefarious purposes. This moral dilemma elevates the story beyond a typical adventure, imbuing it with depth and complexity.

Kitezh: The Heart of the Mystery

The legend of Kitezh, the invisible city said to be submerged beneath a frozen lake in Siberia, serves as the primary geographical and historical focus of Lara’s search. According to legend, Kitezh was saved from Mongol invaders by being submerged into the Svetloyar Lake, remaining invisible to those who are impure of heart. The city is believed to hold the key to the Divine Source and is the ultimate destination of Lara’s expedition.

Discovering Kitezh is not merely about finding a lost city; it’s about understanding the nature of the Divine Source and the people who protected it for centuries. Lara delves into the history of the Prophet of Constantinople, a key figure in the Kitezh legend, and learns about the city’s connection to the Orthodox Christian faith. This historical context adds a layer of intrigue to the game, exploring the intersection of myth, religion, and historical events.

FAQs: Delving Deeper into Lara’s Quest

What exactly is the Divine Source?

The Divine Source is a mythical artifact said to grant immortality and potentially other supernatural abilities. Its true nature and origin remain shrouded in mystery throughout the game, but it is consistently depicted as a powerful and coveted object.

Why is Trinity so interested in the Divine Source?

Trinity seeks the Divine Source to further their own agenda of global domination. They believe it holds the key to unlocking unimaginable power, which they intend to use to reshape the world according to their vision.

How does Lara’s father’s research tie into all of this?

Lara’s father, Lord Richard Croft, dedicated his life to researching the Divine Source and the legend of Kitezh. His work was ridiculed by the academic community, leading to his disgrace and suicide. Lara’s quest is largely driven by a desire to vindicate his research and uncover the truth he sought.

Who is Ana and what role does she play in the story?

Ana is a complex character with a close connection to Lara’s father. Initially presented as an ally, she is later revealed to be a member of Trinity and a key antagonist. Her motivations are tied to her own ambitions for power and her complicated history with the Croft family.

What challenges does Lara face in her search?

Lara faces numerous challenges, including navigating treacherous environments, battling Trinity forces, solving ancient puzzles, and deciphering historical clues. She also grapples with internal struggles, such as the emotional burden of her father’s legacy and the moral implications of her actions.

What kind of skills does Lara use to overcome these challenges?

Lara utilizes a wide range of skills, including combat, stealth, puzzle-solving, and exploration. She is a highly skilled archaeologist, linguist, and survivalist, capable of adapting to diverse environments and overcoming formidable obstacles.

How does Rise of the Tomb Raider differ from previous Tomb Raider games?

Rise of the Tomb Raider places a greater emphasis on character development and emotional storytelling. While previous games focused primarily on action and adventure, this installment delves deeper into Lara’s motivations, relationships, and internal struggles.

What is the significance of the Siberian wilderness setting?

The harsh and unforgiving Siberian wilderness serves as a metaphor for Lara’s internal struggles and the challenges she faces. It also provides a visually stunning and immersive backdrop for the game’s action and adventure.

How does the game explore themes of faith and religion?

Rise of the Tomb Raider incorporates religious and mythological elements through the legend of Kitezh and the Prophet of Constantinople. The game explores the power of faith, the nature of belief, and the intersection of religion and history.

Does Lara have any allies who help her on her journey?

Yes, Lara is assisted by a local man named Jacob, a member of an ancient order dedicated to protecting the Divine Source. He becomes a valuable ally, providing guidance, support, and crucial insights into the history of Kitezh.

What is the relationship between Lara and Jacob like?

Lara and Jacob develop a deep and respectful bond throughout the game. They share a common goal of protecting the Divine Source, and they learn to trust and rely on each other in the face of adversity.

How does Lara change as a result of her experiences in Rise of the Tomb Raider?

Lara undergoes significant character development throughout the game. She becomes more confident, resourceful, and determined. She also learns to embrace her destiny as a tomb raider and protector of ancient artifacts.

What is the overall message or theme of the game?

Rise of the Tomb Raider explores themes of legacy, redemption, faith, and the pursuit of truth. It also examines the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of protecting cultural heritage. The game subtly explores themes of teaching and learning, fitting well with the goals of the Games Learning Society.

What does Lara ultimately discover about the Divine Source?

Without giving away too many spoilers, Lara discovers that the Divine Source is not what she initially believed it to be. She comes to understand the true nature of immortality and the responsibilities that come with wielding such power.

How does the ending of the game set up future installments in the Tomb Raider series?

The ending of Rise of the Tomb Raider establishes Lara as a seasoned and confident tomb raider, ready to face new challenges and explore new mysteries. It also hints at the existence of other powerful artifacts and organizations, setting the stage for future adventures. You can find out more at GamesLearningSociety.org.