Graceling Lies and Deceit Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

Randa's castle was full of secret inner passageways […]. They were so plentiful that even Randa didn't know all of them—no one did, really, although Raffin had had the mind as a child to notice when two rooms came together in a way that seemed not to match. (9.12)

It's the passageway in Raffin's workrooms that allows Katsa and the Council to keep Prince Tealiff secretly stowed away, and it's because they are able to kidnap him back from Murgon's dungeons and keep him hidden that he ultimately recovers and lives. Just one more example of how secrecy and deception can sometimes be used for good reason and with positive results.

Quote #5

"Don't feel too kindly toward me, Katsa. Neither of us is blameless as a friend." (12.91)

When Po makes this statement we know he's been deceiving her in some way, even if we aren't yet sure how. Does the fact that he essentially owns up to his deception and apologizes for it before he makes clear what he's done soften the blow for the reader? Do you think it makes a difference to Katsa? When someone lies to you, whatever the reason, does it help to know that they feel bad about it? Why or why not?

Quote #6

"What will Randa do to you?" Giddon asked.

"Whatever he does," Oll said, "we'll support you."

"No," Katsa said. "You won't support me. I must be on my own in this. Randa must believe that you and Giddon tried to force me to follow his order, but couldn't." (13.59-61)

What do you think: is this deception necessary? Why or why not? What would happen if Katsa, Oll, and Giddon went to Randa as a united front and told him point blank that they wouldn't carry out these kinds of missions for him any longer? Could there be any benefit to taking that approach? Explain.