Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
As the reason for her diplomatic mission to the Ottoman Empire, Dr. Barlow's eggs are symbolic of mystery and intrigue, and also of life itself, since they are eggs, after all. The value Dr. Barlow places on her eggs is a metaphor for the value Darwinists place on their science, which creates new life forms out of existing life forms. Check out Deryn's first glimpse of the secret cargo:
It took a moment to see into the box's shadows. But as her eyes adjusted, twelve rounded shapes resolved in the soft glow of the wormlamp.
"Ma'am…are those eggs?"
"Indeed they are, and quite close to hatching." Dr. Barlow scratched Tazza's head and let out a sigh. "Or at least, they were. Most are broken. This wasn't the smooth ride you promised me, Mr. Sharp." (24.17-19)
We may be stretching things a bit here, but we think the fragility of the eggs could also symbolize the fragility of Europe's peace and the fragility of Dr. Barlow's diplomatic mission. Do you agree?
Responsibility for the eggs is also the thing that brings Alek and Deryn together—you might even say it hatches their friendship. Used to keeping secrets, it must be a relief for both of them to try to figure out a secret instead. Here's Alek's take on his new Darwinist responsibility:
Alek turned to look at the softly glowing cargo box, wondering what was in the eggs that was so important. What sort of fabricated creature could replace a mighty warship? How could a beast no bigger than a top hat keep an empire out of this war?
"What's inside you?" Alek asked softly.
But the eggs just sat there, not answering at all. (41.44-46)
We may not know what's inside the eggs as this first installment in the trilogy comes to a close, but it's a pretty safe bet that we're going to find out in a later book. So add potential to the list of things these eggs symbolize—though that just might change as the sage unfolds.