The Iron Trial

Jasper is initially characterized as an antagonist. How is this characterization challenged and disrupted as the story progresses? How does this shifting characterization contribute to Call’s own character development?

Call takes Constantine Madden’s Magisterium wristband and Alastair Hunt’s note before Master Rufus can see it. How does this decision shape the rest of the narrative? How might the narrative have progressed differently if Call had not taken the wristband and note?

How does Call’s disability become a strength at the Magisterium? How does this unexpected advantage tie into the broader theme of Friendship and Belonging?

Which elements of Drew’s characterization were red herrings? Which elements were clues as to his true identity? How do the authors’ use of these clues and red herrings contribute to the narrative’s tension?

Should Alastair have killed Call, as Sarah instructed him to? Justify your answer using textual evidence.

How does the physical space of the Magisterium illustrate the duality of magic as an immense power that mages can harness for good or evil? Compare and contrast different spaces in your answer.

Havoc is a Chaos-ridden wolf puppy who seems to be inherently good. Does Havoc operate as a symbol for Call himself? If so, what does this symbol reveal about Call? If not, why not?

For readers of Harry Potter, do the similarities between the two texts constitute unoriginality by Black and Clare, or does The Iron Trial present a unique take on magical schooling? Use textual evidence to support your analysis.