The enchanting world of The Wheel of Time showcases an array of diverse characters, each harboring their unique stories and challenges. Among them stands Liandrin, played by Kate Fleetwood, a Red Ajah member. While she might never ascend to the status of a hero, Liandrin’s journey weaves a tale beyond her actions, which occasionally sided with the Light.
Liandrin’s duties as a Red Ajah had her ensuring men wielding the power were kept in check. Even if this sometimes led her to overstep boundaries, as seen when she took it upon herself to gentle Logain, portrayed by Álvaro Morte. Her reason? She believed it was the best course to protect her fellow Aes Sedai from the looming threat he posed.
Yet, Liandrin’s motives and choices weren’t always aligned with others, especially Moiraine, played by Rosamund Pike. Their differences were evident when Moiraine alerted the Red Ajah after Mat, acted by both Barney Harris and Dónal Finn, refused to proceed into the Waygate. True to her nature, Liandrin acted swiftly, ensuring Mat was detained.
Unearthing Liandrin’s Depths
Despite her apparent ruthlessness, the TV adaptation of The Wheel of Time delves deeper into Liandrin’s background, revealing layers of her character not explored in Robert Jordan’s original work. A significant revelation comes in the form of her elderly son (Vladimír Javorský), which stands in stark contrast to the Red Ajah’s notorious disdain for men. This unexpected twist paints Liandrin in a new light, portraying her as someone caught between her duties and a mother’s love, rather than a mere antagonist.
Season 2 Revelations and Twists
As Season 2 unfolds, Liandrin’s involvement in Nynaeve’s (Zoë Robins) training takes a central role. Her unique approach in harnessing Nynaeve’s latent power earns her the reluctant trust of the White Tower. But it’s her secret rendezvous with an elderly, ailing man that reveals her most vulnerable side. Contrary to Nynaeve’s expectations, instead of harming him, Liandrin displays a touching moment of care and helplessness, a testament to her concealed maternal instincts.
Later, in a heart-to-heart with Nynaeve, Liandrin shares the bittersweet experience of watching her loved ones age, a painful reality she faces due to her extended lifespan granted by the One Power. Her enduring love for her son and the agony of witnessing his impending demise provide a clearer understanding of her motivations.
Liandrin: Not Just Black and White
But while these revelations humanize her, they don’t absolve her of her darker actions. Her allegiance to the Black Ajah and service to the Dark One cast a shadow over her character. Liandrin’s continuous manipulations, especially towards Nynaeve, Min, Mat, and others, underscore her self-serving nature, even if she seems to prioritize her family.
A notable instance is her deceit involving Mat and Min. While she makes Mat believe his friends have abandoned him, she tricks Min into working for the sinister Forsaken, Ishamael, portrayed by Fares Fares. These manipulations highlight her readiness to use anyone as a pawn for her objectives.
The Significance of Liandrin’s Evolution
The Wheel of Time’s adaptation offers a nuanced perspective on Liandrin’s character, enriching her narrative beyond the books. Instead of a straightforward antagonist, she emerges as a complex individual with reasons that might make her actions, if not excusable, at least understandable. By delving into her past and introducing a powerful motivation – her love for her son – the series provides a deeper context for her choices, crafting a villain who is, in many ways, shaped by her circumstances.
Conclusion
While the vast universe of The Wheel of Time teems with threats and mysteries, characters like Liandrin remind us that sometimes, understanding a person requires looking beyond their deeds. As the series progresses, it promises more nuanced tales of its characters, inviting viewers to delve deeper into their journeys every Friday on Prime Video.
