City of Bones Theme of Duty

Many occupations feel bound by a sense of duty: soldier, policeman, firefighter. And Shadowhunter. Jace & Co. live by the Shadowhunter Law. These aren't your silly mortal laws about not stealing, not killing, and not embezzling money from the non-profit charity you run. These are Laws with a capital L. Laws that govern the fate of this universe, and maybe one or two others. Pesky demons always seem to be breaking these Laws. The Laws also govern the lives of those bound to them, making for some excellent conflict and drama in City of Bones.

Questions About Duty

  1. What purpose does the Shadowhunters' Law serve?
  2. How do the Laws affect the actions of Jace and the other Shadowhunters?
  3. If Shadowhunters are so bound by these Laws, how are Valentine and others able to break them so easily?