The “Divergent” series by Veronica Roth captivated readers with its thrilling dystopian world, intense character dynamics, and thought-provoking themes. Among the most debated questions among fans is this: Is Four Divergent? While the answer might seem straightforward to some, it’s a topic that has sparked endless discussions. Let’s explore the definitive answer, dive into the reasons behind the confusion, and uncover the truth about Tobias “Four” Eaton.
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Is Four Divergent? Here’s the Truth
No, Four is not Divergent. At first glance, Four exhibits characteristics that make him appear Divergent, such as his resistance to the mind control serum and his ability to remain aware during simulations. However, as revealed in Allegiant, the third book of the series, Four is not truly Divergent because he is genetically damaged.
This revelation is a pivotal moment in the series. Four’s genetic makeup allows him to display certain abilities similar to those of Divergents, but he does not have the “healed” genes that define a true Divergent. This discovery significantly impacts Four’s identity and how he perceives himself compared to Tris, who is genuinely Divergent.
What Does the Book Say?
To understand why the answer to “Is Four Divergent” is no, let’s turn to the evidence from the books. In Allegiant, Matthew, one of the researchers, explains Four’s genetic makeup in detail. Here’s the critical quote from the book:
“This is the map of Tobias’s genes,” Matthew says. “As you can see, he has the right genetic components for simulation awareness, but he doesn’t have the same ‘healed’ genes that Tris does.”
Matthew further clarifies:
“It means that you are not Divergent. Your genes are still damaged, but you have a genetic anomaly that allows you to be aware during simulations anyway. You have, in other words, the appearance of a Divergent without actually being one.”
This revelation underscores the distinction between Four and Tris. While Tris is truly Divergent due to her healed genes, Four’s abilities are simply the result of a genetic anomaly, not true Divergence.
Why Did Readers Think Four Was Divergent?
If the answer to “Is Four Divergent” is so clear, why did so many readers initially believe he was? Let’s explore the reasons behind this misconception:
1. His Resistance to the Mind Control Serum
In the first book, Divergent, one of the key plot points is the use of a mind control serum to manipulate Dauntless members. Tris discovers that she is immune to the serum due to her Divergent status.
Four, too, resists the serum, leading readers—and even Tris—to believe he is Divergent. When Tris wakes up in the Dauntless dormitory to find everyone under the serum’s influence, she blends in to avoid detection. Four also pretends to be under the serum’s control, but later reveals his awareness by signaling Tris to run.
This resistance to the serum seemed like definitive proof that Four was Divergent. However, as we learn later, his ability to resist the serum is due to his genetic anomaly, not true Divergence.
2. His Awareness During Simulations
Another reason readers assumed Four was Divergent lies in his ability to manipulate simulations. Tobias Eaton earned the nickname “Four” during his Dauntless initiation when he successfully navigated his fear landscape with only four fears—an unusually low number.
His fears include:
- Heights
- Shooting someone
- His father, Marcus Eaton
- Claustrophobia (a result of his father locking him in closets as punishment)
Four’s ability to remain self-aware and control his reactions during simulations led Tris—and readers—to believe he was Divergent. When Four recognizes Tris’s ability to manipulate simulations, it seems to confirm that he shares her Divergent trait.
However, as revealed in Allegiant, Four’s simulation awareness stems from his genetic anomaly, not from being Divergent.
The Impact of the Revelation on Four
Discovering that he is not Divergent profoundly affects Four’s identity and self-perception. Throughout the series, Four grapples with his past, his relationship with his abusive father, and his role in the Dauntless faction. The revelation that he is genetically damaged, rather than Divergent, adds another layer of complexity to his character.
This moment highlights a recurring theme in the Divergent Collection series: the impact of labels and societal expectations on personal identity. For Four, learning the truth challenges his understanding of himself and his place in the world, especially in contrast to Tris, who embodies the qualities of a true Divergent.
Why This Question Matters to Fans
The question “Is Four Divergent” resonates with fans because it touches on some of the series’ core themes: identity, genetics, and the blurred lines between perception and reality. Four’s apparent Divergence played a significant role in the early books, building tension and deepening his connection with Tris.
Veronica Roth masterfully kept readers guessing, only to reveal the truth in the final book. This twist added depth to Four’s character and reinforced the series’ overarching message that people cannot be defined solely by labels or genetic classifications.
Key Takeaways
- Four is not Divergent. His genetic anomaly allows him to resist serums and remain aware during simulations, but his genes are still classified as “damaged.”
- Readers initially believed Four was Divergent due to his abilities and the way the story was structured in the earlier books.
- The revelation in Allegiant adds complexity to Four’s character and underscores the series’ themes of identity and self-acceptance.
Is Four Divergent? Final Thoughts
The answer to “Is Four Divergent” is no—but this fact doesn’t diminish his role as one of the series’ most compelling characters. Four’s journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and the strength to redefine oneself beyond societal labels.
By understanding the truth behind Four’s genetic makeup, fans can appreciate the nuanced storytelling that makes the Divergent series so impactful. Whether or not Four is Divergent, his character continues to inspire readers with his bravery and determination.
So, now you know the definitive answer to the question, “Is Four Divergent?” While he may not possess true Divergence, his actions, abilities, and growth make him an unforgettable part of this beloved series.
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