Fate and Free Will Quotes in Eragon

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

Was I meant to have it? He could not answer the question. (4.2)

The question of fate comes in fairly early on in the book. Does Saphira's egg seek Eragon out? Or is his finding the egg purely chance? How might the answer to those questions affect Eragon's sense of purpose on his quest?

Quote #2

It is our destiny to attempt the impossible, to accomplish great deeds regardless of fear. (14.10)

Saphira's great with pep talks. Whenever Eragon's down, she's there to pick him up (or tell him to suck it up). Notice how often in these pick-me-ups she references fate and destiny. Do you think Saphira knows something that Eragon doesn't? Or is she just trying to motivate him?

Quote #3

"The eggs, or rather the infants inside, wouldn't hatch until the person destined to be its Rider came into their presence." (16.9)

Brom explains that Saphira chose Eragon to be her Rider. In that way, Eragon is in fact destined to be her partner. This arrangement acts as a source of strength for both dragon and Rider through the course of the book, but this is especially true for Eragon. Think about it. How would you feel if you knew that you had destiny on your side?