Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane

Central to the novel’s world-building, names and nicknames symbolize the power of language in shaping perception. The Underland has its own terminology, which categorizes creatures and reflects its distinct culture. For instance, “Overlanders” refers to regular humans who live above ground, while “Underlanders” are the pale-skinned, purple-eyed people native to the Underland. Other creatures likewise have unique names: “crawlers” for cockroaches, “fliers” for bats, “gnawers” for rats, “shiners” for fireflies, and “spinners” for spiders. These names enrich and inform the plot and the inhabitants’ prejudices, immersing Gregor in an unfamiliar society where language plays a crucial role in shaping identity and social hierarchy. Gregor and other Overlanders must learn and adapt to these names.

Nicknames thematically link to The Impacts of War, Violence, and Prejudice. The various species hold strong biases and hierarchical views: Some—like the cockroaches—are deemed lesser by others, so many don’t listen to the cockroach Temp. Gregor notes the tension: “It had been an effort for all the different species […] to be cohabiting in two boats. In one boat, it was getting nasty” (165). Slang terms aren’t just casual identifiers but tools for categorization and, at times, dehumanization. Calling rats “gnawers” rather than “rats” creates emotional distance, making it easier for other species to view them as enemies rather than equals. This division is evident when Gregor’s group is willing to sacrifice Twitchtip in the whirlpool scene. Many see her as just another “gnawer,” unworthy of trust or rescue, despite her individuality. This demonstrates how language can reinforce prejudice, deepen divisions, and even justify mercilessness and violence.

Beyond worldbuilding and conflict, names hold personal significance for characters. Gregor isn’t only called “Overlander” but also “Warrior,” a title from the prophecies that defines his destiny. When his fierce combat abilities emerge, Twitchtip calls him a “rager,” a term unique to the Underland that describes an unstoppable, instinct-driven fighter. Having a name for his abilities gives Gregor a new sense of identity, moving him from confusion to understanding. Since he’s naturally peaceful and empathetic, Gregor struggles against these titles, which thrust him into a role he never chose but can’t escape. These names symbolize fate and self-discovery, as Gregor grapples with who he is versus who the Underland expects him to be.