Coming of Age Quotes in Eragon

As soon as we meet him, we learn that Eragon is on the young side of maturity. Still, sixteen = manhood? What do you think of that idea? Perhaps one grows up faster when there are Shades and Urgals lurking about…

As difficult as it is for Eragon to deal with, the death of his family is really what sets him on the road to maturity. For most of us, things aren't so drastic, but it's an inevitable stage in the process of growing up. We have to leave home and forge our own way in the world, much like Eragon does.

When Eragon uses his magic to blast the Urgals and defend Brom, it's a sign of his growing maturity. Like it or not, part of growing up for our hero is his ability to use his powers to combat evil.

Oh, Eragon. When will you learn? Brom's instructions don't take hold overnight. Eragon goes through a slow, often difficult process to learn how to act as a Rider. Learning to use his powers wisely is one of the most important challenges for him as he comes of age.

The sparring sessions between Eragon and Brom are lessons in how to fight with a sword, sure, but there's something more to them. As Eragon starts to hold his own against his master, we see that his powers are maturing, just like Eragon himself.

Good thinking, Eragon. Before, he'd just rush off into battle, firing magic bolts until he passed out from the effort. Eragon's increased caution shows that he is maturing. He's thinking more carefully about when to fight and when to run away so he can live to fight another day.

Aha! More signs of maturity from our man Eragon here. Sure, it would feel much better to blast the slave market in Dras-Leona into itty bitty smithereens, but what purpose would that serve? The mature Eragon is able to see the big picture. If he restrains himself, he'll stay a free man and will be better able to destroy Galbatorix's forces once and for all.

We like this newly cautious, mature Eragon. He's more like a chess master now, rather than a dull, magic-firing instrument. His strategy and big-picture thinking mean that he can save his friend, rather than get bogged down in a pointless fight—even if it is with those jerkface Ra'zac.

Here we see Eragon at last embracing the identity he's destined for. It's a sign of his maturity that he's now confident in who he is and is able to take ownership of his powers, and the responsibilities that come with them.

In some ways, you can argue that this is the climax of the novel. Sure, it was cool when Eragon killed Durza, but his journey to maturity really comes to a close with this realization. He has at last become his own man, able to stand on his own. As he realizes in this moment of reflection, Eragon has truly become a Dragon Rider.