The Witcher and Philosophy

The Witcher and Philosophy
Author: Matthew Brake
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
Total Pages: 279
Release: 2024-09-20
Genre: Philosophy
ISBN: 1394168756

Embark on a revealing philosophical journey through the universe of The Witcher “If I'm to choose between one evil and another, I'd rather not choose at all,” growls the mutant “witcher,” Geralt of Rivia. Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher books lay bare the adventures of monster hunters like Geralt, who seek to avoid humanity's conflicts and live only for the next kill and the coin that comes with it. But Geralt's destiny is complicated by his relationship with a powerful sorceress, Yennefer of Vengerberg. When he connects with a displaced princess, Ciri, Geralt lands right in the middle of the political conflicts of the Continent, which is endangered by Nilfgaard, a domineering southern kingdom that threatens to conquer the world. Part of the Blackwell Philosophy and Pop Culture series, The Witcher and Philosophy brings on twenty-seven philosophers to test their mettle against werewolves, the bruxa, strigas, vodyanoi, and kikimora; their work addresses the phenomenally popular books, three standalone Witcher video games, and the hit Netflix streaming show. These authors pass on their fascination with all manner of horror and sorcery: the mutations that make Geralt and others witchers, the commonalities between the Continent and post-apocalyptic settings, the intricacies of political power and scandal in the world of The Witcher, and reflections of our own world's changing views on race and gender that might offer hope—or portend a grim future. Engaging and accessible, The Witcher and Philosophy considers key themes and questions such as: Who is human, and who is a monster? Can Geralt afford to stay neutral? What kind of politics do sorceresses engage in? How many universes converge on the Continent? If we stare long enough into the abyss, does it stare back into us? Silver or steel? “Destiny is just the embodiment of the soul's desire to grow,” says Jaskier the bard, proving himself to be a natural philosopher. The tales of The Witcher remind us that our lives are a play written by both choice and destiny. And it is your destiny to read and be inspired by The Witcher and Philosophy.

Queen of Zazzau

Queen of Zazzau
Author: J.S. Emuakpor
Publisher: Afrocentric Books
Total Pages: 490
Release: 2018-11-20
Genre: Fiction
ISBN:

African history as you've never read it before. A warrior queen. A capricious god. A kingdom hanging in the balance. As foreign invaders close in on her kingdom, Amina must prove herself worthy of the crown. She is the only thing standing between her people and their downfall. Caught in a web of prophecies and intrigue, she must defend Zazzau, but cannot do so if she wants to prevent the future that was foretold. Unwilling to be the plaything of gods or men and determined to take control of her own destiny, she seeks out the god of war himself. But is her future already written or can she choose her own fate? And can she protect her kingdom, no matter what price she must ultimately pay? Captivating and sensual, Queen of Zazzau chronicles the journey of real-life West African queen, Amina of Zazzau. Through a rich tapestry of African history, folklore, myth, and magic, the story brings a legendary woman to life. Beloved of the gods or cursed by their attentions, Amina struggles not only to protect her people, but to maintain her humanity in the wake of destruction. To become the savior that her kingdom needs. If you enjoy epic adventures and strong female characters, Queen of Zazzau is a must-read. ★★Winner of the 2020 NC Author Project★★ Mature content

Blood of Elves

Blood of Elves
Author: Andrzej Sapkowski
Publisher: Orbit
Total Pages: 333
Release: 2009-05-01
Genre: Fiction
ISBN: 0316073717

Andrzej Sapkowski’s New York Times bestselling Witcher series has inspired the hit Netflix show and multiple blockbuster video games, and has transported millions of fans around the globe to an epic, unforgettable world of magic and adventure. For over a century, humans, dwarves, gnomes, and elves have lived together in relative peace. But that peace has now come to an end. Geralt of Rivia, the hunter known as the Witcher, has been waiting for the birth of a prophesied child. The one who has the power to change the world for good—or for evil. As the threat of war hangs over the land and the child is pursued for her extraordinary powers, it will become Geralt’s responsibility to protect them all. And the Witcher never accepts defeat. Join Geralt of Rivia; his beloved ward and the child of prophecy, Ciri; and his ally and love, the powerful sorceress Yennefer as they battle monsters, demons, and prejudices alike in Blood of Elves, the first novel of The Witcher Saga. Witcher story collections The Last Wish Sword of Destiny Witcher novels Blood of Elves The Time of Contempt Baptism of Fire The Tower of Swallows Lady of the Lake Season of Storms (stand alone) Hussite Trilogy The Tower of Fools Warriors of God Light Perpetual Translated from original Polish by Danusia Stok

Books Are Weapons

Books Are Weapons
Author: Siobahn Doucette
Publisher: University of Pittsburgh Press
Total Pages: 338
Release: 2018-03-07
Genre: History
ISBN: 0822983192

Much attention has been given to the role of intellectual dissidents, labor, and religion in the historic overthrow of communism in Poland during the 1980s. Books Are Weapons presents the first English-language study of that which connected them—the press. Siobhan Doucette provides a comprehensive examination of the Polish opposition’s independent, often underground, press and its crucial role in the events leading to the historic Round Table and popular elections of 1989. While other studies have emphasized the role that the Solidarity movement played in bringing about civil society in 1980-1981, Doucette instead argues that the independent press was the essential binding element in the establishment of a true civil society during the mid- to late 1980s. Based on a thorough investigation of underground publications and interviews with important activists of the period from 1976 to 1989, Doucette shows how the independent press, rooted in the long Polish tradition of well-organized resistance to foreign occupation, reshaped this tradition to embrace nonviolent civil resistance while creating a network that evolved from a small group of dissidents into a broad opposition movement with cross-national ties and millions of sympathizers. It was the galvanizing force in the resistance to communism and the rebuilding of Poland’s democratic society.

Andrzej Sapkowski's The Witcher: A Grain of Truth

Andrzej Sapkowski's The Witcher: A Grain of Truth
Author: Andrzej Sapkowski
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Total Pages: 64
Release: 2022-06-21
Genre: Comics & Graphic Novels
ISBN: 150672695X

Geralt’s encounter with a beast reveals the truth behind fairy tales in this graphic novel adaptation of Andrzej Sapkowski's original short story. Geralt takes a short cut down a beaten path, where he makes a grim discovery of two corpses. Backtracking their trail, he’s led to a derelict mansion secured with elevated walls and a gate—mysterious and ramshackle, yet adorned with a rare elegance Geralt could not ignore. He is met with the mansion’s owner—not quite human, but a beast with the faculties of a man. With Geralt unfazed by his monstrous appearance and displays of aggression, the beast invites him inside. A kind but wary host, he shares stories of his family, his life . . . and his curse. If the weight of his misdeeds could condemn him to the body of a beast—a retribution spoken of only in fairy tales, could there be another grain of truth in these tales of fantasy—one that could help him elude his fate and lead him to salvation? This graphic novel is the first in a series of adaptations from Sapkowski's acclaimed short story collection The Last Wish! Script adaptation by Jacek Rembiś (Frostpunk) with art by Jonas Scharf (Bone Parish, War for the Planet of the Apes).

Game of Thrones and Philosophy

Game of Thrones and Philosophy
Author: Henry Jacoby
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
Total Pages: 320
Release: 2012-02-23
Genre: Philosophy
ISBN: 1118206053

An in-depth look at the philosophical issues behind HBO's Game of Thrones television series and the books that inspired it George R.R. Martin's New York Times bestselling epic fantasy book series, A Song of Ice and Fire, and the HBO television show adapted from it, have earned critical acclaim and inspired fanatic devotion. This book delves into the many philosophical questions that arise in this complex, character-driven series, including: Is it right for a "good" king to usurp the throne of a "bad" one and murder his family? How far should you go to protect your family and its secrets? In a fantasy universe with medieval mores and ethics, can female characters reflect modern feminist ideals? Timed for the premiere of the second season of the HBO Game of Thrones series Gives new perspectives on the characters, storylines, and themes of Game of Thrones Draws on great philosophers from ancient Greece to modern America to explore intriguing topics such as the strange creatures of Westeros, the incestuous relationship of Jaime and Cersei Lannister, and what the kings of Westeros can show us about virtue and honor (or the lack thereof) as they play their game of thrones Essential reading for fans, Game of Thrones and Philosophy will enrich your experience of your favorite medieval fantasy series.

Steelflower

Steelflower
Author: Lilith Saintcrow
Publisher:
Total Pages: 412
Release: 2019-02-12
Genre:
ISBN: 9781950447008

Kaia Steelflower, assassin and thief, has picked the wrong pocket.

The Degree of Progressivism Among Arkansas Public School Superintendents

The Degree of Progressivism Among Arkansas Public School Superintendents
Author: Ann E. Witcher
Publisher:
Total Pages: 120
Release: 1996
Genre: Education
ISBN:

This book discusses attitudes of Arkansas public school superintendents toward education in light of two opposing viewpoints: essentialism and progressivism. The study provides a comparative analysis of the essentialist and progressive schooling process and the role of the administrator. It also looks at the implications for working with adminstrators for educational change. Information is collected regarding (a) opinions about the need to restructure Arkansas schools and (b) factors contributing to/or inhibiting local restructuring efforts. The survey response rate was 78%, and the author concludes that there does not appear to be a great extent of progressivism among superintendents in this study. Witcher argues that, based upon the results of this study, Arkansas educational reformers may need to examine their methods for promoting change. This book will appeal to those persons enrolled in programs for educational administration and leadership, courses in educational foundations, and anyone interested in working with school superintendents (and other personnel for educational change).

Graduate School Commencement

Graduate School Commencement
Author: University of Minnesota. Graduate School
Publisher:
Total Pages: 80
Release: 1995
Genre:
ISBN: