Major Themes
As a character, Morgan's primary role is as the protector of the House of Haldane. Even before he is born, his parents dedicate their son to the service and protection of the Haldane line, and that theme is the most recurring element of the character's personality. His fierce loyalty to the Haldane kings stems not just the common fealty of a noble to his liege lord, but also the personal affection he bears toward both Brion and Kelson. Just as Brion serves as an older brother, friend, and mentor to Morgan during his youth, Morgan fills those same roles for Kelson, protecting and guiding the young king into adulthood in the same way that Brion once did for him. Even after Kelson matures into a strong and confident king, he still relies on Morgan's advice more than anyone else's, rarely disagreeing with the Deryni duke's counsel.
A secondary theme is Morgan's own maturation process. During the Chronicles of the Deryni trilogy, he is somewhat brazen and cocky, deliberately cultivating a sinister aura and mysterious reputation that elicits feelings of fear and distrust from those who do not know him. Although he does not flaunt his powers, he never hides what he is, almost daring people to challenge him. However, as the series progresses into the Histories of King Kelson trilogy, a slightly older and wiser Morgan has begun to modify his methods slightly. He is no longer quite so quick to draw a sword, having become more experienced and facile in the methods of diplomacy. He is calmer and more patient, rarely letting his emotions get the better of him, and he has stopped intentionally developing an enigmatic reputation. In addition, Morgan gets married and starts a family of his own, which adds more facets to his growing maturity. Nevertheless, his dedication to the Haldane line remains strong and undiminished.
Read more about this topic: Alaric Morgan
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