I Shall Wear Midnight - Discworld Book 38

Synopsis

Tiffany Aching faces suspicion and hostility as witches fall under public distrust. She must confront dark forces and societal fears.

Book Overview

In I Shall Wear Midnight, Tiffany Aching, now a young adult witch, faces growing suspicion, hostility, and fear from her community, fueled by an ancient and malevolent presence known as the Cunning Man. This supernatural entity thrives on prejudice, fear, and bigotry, manipulating communities into persecution and violence against outsiders—particularly witches. Tiffany must confront both this supernatural enemy and the societal hysteria it provokes, relying on her inner strength, moral clarity, and empathy.

The novel thoughtfully explores themes of bigotry, mob mentality, and societal fear, emphasizing the dangers of ignorance, intolerance, and suspicion. Tiffany’s personal experiences symbolize the historical persecution of marginalized individuals, critiquing how easily societies scapegoat outsiders during times of anxiety and uncertainty. Her struggle against the Cunning Man embodies the fight against societal darkness—fear, hatred, and ignorance—emphasizing compassion, courage, and moral integrity.

Tiffany’s internal growth continues, deepening her emotional and psychological maturity. Her confrontation with prejudice and intolerance highlights the necessity of empathy, rationality, and courage in combating societal injustice. Granny Weatherwax and Nanny Ogg’s mentorship underscores themes of intergenerational wisdom, responsibility, and solidarity.

As a pivotal installment in the Tiffany Aching sub-series, I Shall Wear Midnight profoundly deepens thematic explorations of morality, responsibility, and societal prejudice. Tiffany’s character growth, moral courage, and compassion resonate powerfully throughout Discworld, positioning the novel as one of Pratchett’s most insightful and socially relevant works.

Principal Characters

Tiffany Aching
A young witch from the chalk country who first displays her abilities as a child. Practical, intelligent, and possessing First Sight and Second Thoughts, she develops into a powerful witch under Granny Weatherwax's guidance. Her adventures form the core of the young adult Discworld novels.
Appears in 5 booksView Details
Preston
Preston is a young, earnest guard in the service of the Baron of the Chalk, who becomes a close ally and friend to Tiffany Aching. His role in 'I Shall Wear Midnight' is significant as he provides both practical support and a grounding presence for Tiffany during her trials. Preston's intelligence, kindness, and open-mindedness make him a refreshing and reliable character in the Discworld universe, embodying the potential for change and understanding in a world often resistant to both.
Appears in 1 bookView Details
Roland
Roland is the heir to the Barony of the Chalk, a young man who finds himself entangled in the magical and often perilous world of witches. Initially portrayed as somewhat naive and sheltered, Roland grows into a more mature and understanding character, especially through his interactions with Tiffany Aching. His significance lies in his evolving relationship with Tiffany, which highlights themes of growth, responsibility, and the bridging of different worlds.
Appears in 2 booksView Details
Letitia Keepsake
Letitia Keepsake is a young woman from a wealthy family, who initially appears to be a typical spoiled aristocrat but reveals unexpected depth and kindness. Her role in 'I Shall Wear Midnight' is significant as she becomes an ally to Tiffany Aching, the young witch, and helps bridge the gap between the upper class and the common folk. Letitia's character development highlights themes of growth, understanding, and the breaking of social barriers in the Discworld universe.
Appears in 1 bookView Details
Nac Mac Feegle
The Nac Mac Feegle, also known as the Wee Free Men, are a clan of tiny, blue-skinned, kilt-wearing pictsies known for their fierce warrior spirit, love of drinking, and penchant for thievery. They play a crucial role in assisting young witches like Tiffany Aching, often serving as her protectors and allies in her adventures. Their significance in the Discworld universe lies in their unique blend of humor, bravery, and loyalty, often providing comic relief while also demonstrating profound wisdom and courage.
Appears in 3 booksView Details
The Cunning Man
The Cunning Man is a malevolent spirit and a manifestation of pure hatred and intolerance, seeking to eradicate witchcraft and those who practice it. He embodies the fear and suspicion that can arise in communities, making him a formidable adversary for Tiffany Aching. His presence in the Discworld universe highlights the dangers of unchecked prejudice and the power of collective fear.
Appears in 1 bookView Details

Auxiliary Characters

Granny Weatherwax
The most powerful witch on the Discworld, known for her formidable willpower, sharp intellect, and mastery of "headology" (practical psychology). Although stern and intimidating, she's a force for good who believes strongly in personal responsibility.
Appears in 10 booksView Details
Nanny Ogg
A jovial, earthy, and sociable witch who's the matriarch of the large Ogg clan. Despite her seemingly carefree personality, she's extremely shrewd and nearly as powerful as Granny Weatherwax. Known for her bawdy humor, love of drinking, and inappropriate songs.
Appears in 7 booksView Details