How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Often Raffin [sat at Randa's table], though Randa spoke over him and never cared to hear what he had to say. (7.57)
We know that Randa isn't speaking to Raffin at the beginning of the book because Raffin has inadvertently dyed his hair blue, which Randa thinks is "appalling behavior for the son of the king" (6.11). But it sounds like Randa doesn't spend a lot of time talking with, or listening to, his son. Why do you think that is? Do you think they have a typical father-son relationship? Do you think it has anything to do with Randa's masculinity, or his sense of Raffin's masculinity, or any kind of masculinity at all? Why or why not?
Quote #2
"Don't worry, Grandfather. It was only a friendly scuffle."
Tealiff snorted. "A friendly scuffle. You look worse than she does, Po."
Po burst into laughter. He laughed a lot, this Lienid prince. "I've met my match, Grandfather." (9.38-40)
This is one instance in which Po proves himself not to be a stereotypical male. And what, you may ask, does Shmoop think a stereotypical male would do in this situation? Well, whether it's a fair characterization or not, we've heard enough throw-like-a-girl, run-like-a-girl, let's-go-ladies (that last one addressed to a group of boys or men) comments over the years to believe that a stereotypical man might be insulted or humiliated after being beaten by a woman in a physical competition.
Po, on the other hand, doesn't seem bothered at all. He laughs, and his laugh seems genuine. Go figure… and go, Po.
Quote #3
As [Giddon] entered the room and looked from Katsa to Po, his eyes grew dark. He put his hand to his sword. He whirled on Po. "I don't see where you come off fighting Lady Katsa." (9.68)
Here Giddon demonstrates that one role men have been stereotypically expected to play is that of protector, and you know, there's a certain nobility in that. Except when the object of one's protection doesn't ask for, want, or need it. Then it's just annoying. And arrogant.