Fate

The main plot of The Beatryce Prophecy, as its title alludes, is inspired by the theme of predestination. The king—along with his counselor and even Brother Edik—believes Beatryce to be destined to usurp him. For this reason, he does all he can to stop her. Beatryce herself believes in the prophecy and behaves according to its wishes for her, never doubting its truthfulness.

The prophecy that so terrifies the king reads as follows: “There will one day come a girl child who will unseat a king and bring about a great change” (66). This prophecy, recorded by Brother Edik in the Chronicles of Sorrowing, is used by the king’s counselor to manipulate the king. In exaggerating the danger that Beatryce presents, the counselor is given the opportunity to enact his revenge against the royal family. He is motivated by resentment towards Beatryce’s mother...