The Shadow Fold
The land of Unsea or The Fold is a dark void that covers a portion of the Kingdom of Ravka of which was summoned by the Darkling. The Fold is occupied by the Volcra, monstrous creatures that feed on human flesh hence renders the dark mass treacherous. It symbolizes the extremes of evil forces when it becomes uncontainable and morphs into an entity much darker. The Volcra were once human beings but the Fold turned them into monsters, which represents the corruption brought on evil.
Light and Darkness
The Kingdom of Ravka is embodied by both powers of light and darkness showcased through the main characters. The Darkling represents the darkness which he summons and utilized to create the Fold before it consumed part of Ravka. The darkness symbolizes the corruption and manipulation that comes with power as exhibited by the Darkling. On the other hand, Alina is the only Sun Summoner known therefore the beacon of hope for the people of Ravka. Alina displays restraint with her power hence light symbolizes the good forces willing to save rather than conquer.
Magic Stag
The magic stag is a significant symbol in the narrative since its antlers are crucial in amplifying the powers of the Summoners. As an amplifier Darkling desires to use the antlers to enslave Alina and conquer the rest of the land. However, Alina shows control by sparing the animal at first sight because she is not power-hungry. Therefore, the stag symbolizes an entity that can either be used for evil or good depending on the character.
Elemental Powers
Among the people of Ravka, there is the elite group known as the Grisha comprising of those with elemental powers. The major conflict in the novel is the search for individuals with abilities thus elemental powers is a motif throughout. The protagonist has the ability to summon the sun whilst the antagonist can summon shadow or darkness. As such, members of the magical elite can manipulate a variety of elements including wind, fire, water, and metal. Alina as the only Sun Summoner becomes a target since she is either a threat or a source of power depending on the pursuers.
Map
Navigation is crucial in the Kingdom of Ravka especially with the existence of the Fold which makes it difficult. The Kingdom is separated by the dark void covering most of the sea hence cartographers such as Alina are significant. Accordingly, maps are vital and a part of this universe as much as they are to the narrative itself. Maps symbolize the journey that Alina takes both literally and metaphorically as she embraces her newfound powers. She has to chart the new territory of being a magical elite within the royal court.
