In The High King, the fifth and final book of the Chronicles of Prydain series by Lloyd Alexander, readers join the protagonist Taran, also known as the Assistant Pig-Keeper, on a high-stakes adventure. Taran is entrusted with the vital task of rallying an army to challenge Arawn Death-Lord, the ruler of Annuvin, who seeks to conquer all of Prydain.
The narrative opens with the return of Taran's friend and guide, Prince Gwydion, bearing the news of the theft of the magical sword Dyrnwyn, the only weapon potent enough to overcome Arawn. It has been stolen by a treacherous warlord, Magg, who has sided with Arawn. Then, Taran, joined by Princess Eilonwy, the bard Fflewddur Fflam, and other companions, sets off on a perilous journey to retrieve the sword and face their adversary.
Throughout the novel, Taran shows immense growth as a leader. As the story unfolds, he faces numerous trials that test his courage, wisdom, and integrity. He is also confronted with painful sacrifices that further develop his character. He must cope with the loss of friends, particularly when one of his closest companions, Gurgi, sacrifices his life to enable Taran to use Dyrnwyn against their foes.
The ending of The High King is both dramatic and satisfying. Taran successfully retrieves Dyrnwyn and defeats Arawn. Yet, the victory comes at a cost, with Gurgi's sacrifice and the resultant grief. The death of the seemingly invincible Arawn marks the end of an era in Prydain, leaving Taran with the opportunity to rebuild a peaceful kingdom.
Alexander's narrative style is able to sustain tension and maintains a fast pace. The storyline is filled with cliff-hanging moments, unexpected twists, and heartbreaking losses that keep readers engaged. Taran's evolution from a simple pig keeper to a leader showcases Alexander's adept handling of character development. The portrayal of Taran's struggles, especially his decision-making in crises, underscores his human vulnerability, making him relatable.
