Review of Equal Rites: A Discworld Novel

Introduction

Equal Rites is the third book in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series and marks a significant shift in the series’ tone and themes. While the first two books, The Color of Magic and The Light Fantastic, primarily focused on satirizing traditional fantasy tropes, Equal Rites introduces deeper social commentary, particularly concerning gender roles, tradition, and equality. Published in 1987, the novel also marks the debut of one of Discworld’s most beloved characters—Granny Weatherwax, a formidable witch from the mountainous kingdom of Lancre.

Unlike its predecessors, which followed the hapless wizard Rincewind, Equal Rites presents a self-contained story centered on a young girl, Eskarina Smith, who inadvertently inherits the magical staff of a dying wizard and is subsequently expected to become the first female wizard in history. The novel explores her struggles against institutionalized sexism, the tension between wizardry and witchcraft, and the idea that tradition should be challenged when it becomes an obstacle to progress.

Plot Summary

The story begins in the rural village of Bad Ass, where a dying wizard, Drum Billet, arrives in search of the eighth son of an eighth son—destined to be a wizard. However, in a twist of fate, the child he blesses with magic turns out to be a girl, Eskarina "Esk" Smith. Since the male-exclusive nature of wizardry has never been questioned, this creates an unprecedented situation.

As Esk grows up, she begins to display signs of powerful but uncontrolled magic. Realizing that something must be done, the village’s local witch, Granny Weatherwax, takes Esk under her wing. However, Granny soon discovers that witchcraft, which relies on practical knowledge, cunning, and natural magic, is not enough to train Esk’s unique wizarding abilities. This leads them on a journey to Ankh-Morpork, where Esk must prove herself to the rigid hierarchy of Unseen University, the prestigious and male-dominated institution of wizardry.

Upon arriving, Esk faces immediate resistance. Wizards believe that only men can wield magic in a structured way, dismissing Esk’s potential outright. However, through determination, intelligence, and sheer magical talent, Esk eventually breaks through these prejudices. When a catastrophic magical event threatens the fabric of reality, Esk joins forces with a young apprentice wizard named Simon and demonstrates that magic is not inherently gendered—rather, it is about knowledge, skill, and willpower.

By the novel’s end, Esk’s story does not entirely overthrow the system, but it does challenge it. She proves that the barriers separating witches and wizards are not as absolute as tradition suggests, leaving open the possibility of change.

Character Analysis

Eskarina "Esk" Smith

Esk is an unconventional protagonist, especially within the fantasy genre. She is young, determined, and fiercely intelligent, refusing to accept societal expectations that dictate what she can or cannot become. Unlike many classic fantasy heroines, she does not wait for others to validate her abilities—she fights for her right to learn and prove herself.

Her journey is not just about mastering magic but also about challenging a rigid, patriarchal system. She is neither a rebellious firebrand nor a passive victim; she is pragmatic, clever, and willing to learn from both witches and wizards alike. This balance makes her an engaging and relatable character.

Granny Weatherwax

Granny Weatherwax is one of the most iconic figures in Discworld, and her first appearance in Equal Rites immediately establishes her as a force to be reckoned with. She is wise, stubborn, and deeply practical, embodying the essence of headology—a mix of psychological manipulation, experience, and sheer presence that allows her to influence others without resorting to direct magic.

Although she initially believes in traditional gender roles—seeing witchcraft as a woman’s domain and wizardry as a man’s—she gradually changes her stance as she witnesses Esk’s natural aptitude. Granny’s dynamic character development makes her one of the most compelling aspects of the novel.

Simon

Simon serves as Esk’s foil, representing a more traditional, scholarly approach to magic. He is a prodigious talent in theoretical wizardry, but his academic mindset limits his ability to see beyond convention. His character provides an interesting contrast to Esk’s more instinctual and intuitive grasp of magic. Their interactions highlight the novel’s central theme—that knowledge should not be confined by arbitrary traditions.

The Wizards of Unseen University

The faculty of Unseen University represents the deeply entrenched sexism and conservatism within Discworld’s magical establishment. Their refusal to accept Esk is not based on logical reasoning but rather on centuries of unchallenged tradition. However, their portrayal is not entirely villainous; rather, they are depicted as bumbling, self-important, and resistant to change, making them a source of both humor and criticism.

Themes and Social Commentary

Gender and Equality

The most prominent theme in Equal Rites is gender inequality. Pratchett uses the conflict between witches and wizards to explore broader societal issues, such as discrimination, tradition versus progress, and institutional bias. The novel cleverly illustrates how barriers to equality are often upheld not by logic but by long-standing customs that go unchallenged.

Tradition vs. Innovation

Throughout the book, characters struggle with the weight of tradition. Wizards believe that only men can practice structured magic, and witches adhere to their own rigid system of natural magic. Esk and Granny challenge these ideas, demonstrating that true progress comes from questioning outdated beliefs.

The Nature of Magic

Magic in Equal Rites is depicted as a complex force that is not inherently gendered but shaped by how it is taught and understood. The novel suggests that different approaches to magic (structured wizardry vs. intuitive witchcraft) are complementary rather than exclusive.

Education and Gatekeeping

The book also critiques educational institutions that gatekeep knowledge based on arbitrary rules. Unseen University is a parody of real-world academic institutions that resist change and uphold traditions for their own sake rather than for any practical reason.

Writing Style and Humor

Pratchett’s signature wit shines in Equal Rites. The novel is filled with sharp dialogue, clever wordplay, and absurd yet insightful observations about human nature. Compared to the first two books, this one takes a more structured approach to storytelling, with stronger character development and a more cohesive plot.

The humor is still present, but it is less about broad fantasy parody and more about satirical commentary on gender, education, and societal norms. This shift in tone marks the beginning of Discworld’s transition from light-hearted spoof to intelligent, multi-layered satire.

Criticism

While Equal Rites is a strong entry in the series, it is not without flaws. The ending, while satisfying, does not deliver a dramatic upheaval of the system—Esk’s success is more symbolic than revolutionary. Some readers may find the pacing uneven, particularly in the middle of the book when Esk’s journey to Unseen University feels a bit meandering.

Additionally, while Esk is a compelling protagonist, she does not appear in later Discworld novels, which may leave some readers wishing for further development of her character.

Conclusion

Equal Rites is a turning point for the Discworld series, blending humor with social commentary in a way that sets the stage for Pratchett’s later masterpieces. It introduces deeper themes, more nuanced characters, and a stronger narrative structure while maintaining the wit and charm that define Discworld.

Although it does not completely upend the patriarchal system it critiques, it opens the door for change, reflecting the slow but inevitable progress of social evolution. For readers looking for a blend of fantasy, humor, and thought-provoking themes, Equal Rites is a must-read.

Final Rating: 4.5/5