Pyramids - Discworld Book 7

Synopsis

Teppic, trained as an assassin, inherits his father's kingdom complete with ancient pyramids whose magic begins to warp reality itself. He must untangle myth from reality to save his kingdom from oblivion.

Book Overview

In Pyramids, Terry Pratchett explores the remote desert kingdom of Djelibeybi, a land perpetually frozen in ancient traditions, ruled by the dictates of rituals and customs passed down for generations. Teppic, the novel’s young protagonist, has been sent to Ankh-Morpork to train at the renowned Assassin’s Guild, acquiring modern skills and pragmatic ideas that sharply contrast with the stagnation back home. Upon his father’s sudden death, Teppic returns to assume the throne, bringing with him the influence of foreign experiences and progressive thinking.

Teppic soon realizes that Djelibeybi is stuck—not just culturally, but literally—trapped by powerful magical forces emanating from the kingdom's iconic pyramids. These ancient structures, built with vast resources and mystical precision, have distorted reality itself, holding the kingdom in a perpetual state of historical inertia. As Teppic attempts to reform and modernize, he finds himself up against entrenched priesthoods, deeply ingrained rituals, and powerful mystical energies that resist any notion of change.

Thematically, Pyramids is a sharp satire of tradition, religion, and cultural stagnation. Pratchett challenges the reverence given to ancient customs simply because they are old, urging readers to question blind obedience to tradition at the expense of rational progress. The novel humorously yet thoughtfully explores the intersection of religion, authority, and tradition, showing how cultural narratives can entrap societies, limiting their capacity for adaptation and innovation.

While largely a standalone novel within the Discworld canon, Pyramids enriches the reader’s understanding of Pratchett’s world by expanding its cultural geography and history. Its setting—a parody of Ancient Egypt and its elaborate funeral rites—provides ample opportunity to parody real-world historical obsessions with death, the afterlife, and monuments to immortality. Through Teppic’s struggle to reconcile his assassin’s pragmatism with his royal duties, Pratchett underscores the tension between personal growth and societal expectations, cleverly critiquing the folly of unquestioned adherence to outdated ideologies.

Principal Characters

Teppic
Teppic, the protagonist of "Pyramids," is a young prince of the desert kingdom of Djelibeybi who has been trained as an assassin in Ankh-Morpork. He is caught between the ancient traditions of his homeland and the modern, pragmatic skills he has acquired, leading to a humorous and insightful exploration of identity and duty. Teppic's journey is significant as it challenges the rigid structures of his society and highlights the absurdities of unquestioned traditions.
Appears in 1 bookView Details
Dios
Dios is the high priest of the kingdom of Djelibeybi, serving as the chief advisor to the Pharaoh and the true power behind the throne. He is a staunch traditionalist, dedicated to maintaining the ancient customs and rituals of the kingdom, often to the detriment of progress and change. His unwavering adherence to tradition and his manipulative control over the Pharaohs make him a pivotal figure in the events of 'Pyramids,' where his actions and beliefs are both challenged and unraveled.
Appears in 1 bookView Details
Ptraci
Ptraci is a young handmaiden who becomes an unexpected ruler in the kingdom of Djelibeybi. Her character is marked by a blend of naivety and surprising wisdom, often displaying a unique perspective on the world that challenges traditional norms. Ptraci's significance lies in her ability to adapt and thrive in situations that would overwhelm others, showcasing a blend of innocence and cunning that is both endearing and formidable.
Appears in 1 bookView Details
You Bastard
You Bastard is the greatest mathematician on the Discworld, a camel with an extraordinary ability to perform complex calculations in his head. Known as the "Greatest Mathematician in the World," he plays a crucial role in the book 'Pyramids' by assisting the protagonist, Teppic, in navigating the desert and solving intricate problems. His intelligence and unique skills make him a significant and humorous character, showcasing Pratchett's love for blending the absurd with the intellectual.
Appears in 1 bookView Details
Dil The Embalmer
Dil the Embalmer is a meticulous and somewhat morbid character who takes great pride in his work preserving the dead in the ancient kingdom of Djelibeybi. Known for his dry wit and dedication to his craft, Dil plays a crucial role in the events of 'Pyramids' as he navigates the peculiarities of life and death in a land where the two often overlap. His significance lies in his embodiment of the Discworld's unique approach to death, blending humor with the macabre.
Appears in 1 bookView Details