These major differences between Egwene’s character in 'The Wheel of Time' show and books will blow your mind 

Egwene al'Vere's portrayal in Amazon's adaptation of The Wheel of Time is a significant departure from her character in Robert Jordan's novel series of the same name. The changes refashion her role, agency, and relationships, inviting the viewers to look at her from a fresh perspective.

Created by Rafe Lee Judkins, The Wheel of Time series has made significant changes in the on-screen adaptation to carve Egwene's character in great detail. The visual medium is a perfect canvas for the showrunners to portray their creativity.

Let's dive deep into major differences.

Here are some major differences between Egwene’s character in The Wheel of Time show and books

In the books, Egwene is not a candidate for the Dragon Reborn, and the role is left reserved for Rand, Mat, and Perrin. The showrunners change this in the adaptation and expand the possibility to include Egwene and Nynaeve, meaning any individual among the five from the Two Rivers. This adjustment improves the mystery surrounding the Dragon's identity and also places Egwene at the centre of the narrative from the beginning.

Secondly, Egwene is younger than her male counterparts in the books. However, the adaptation portrays all characters in their early twenties, illustrating a more mature storyline and even a romantic relationship between Rand and Egwene. This also contrasts with he kind of innocent connection they have in the novel. The showrunner's choices have added more intrigue and depth to the narrative.

The makers changed the treatment and added new scenes for Egwene in The Wheel of Time

Egwene's time as a damane is passive, with her rescue orchestrated by numerous people in the novel. Egwene's experience is just as traumatic, but most of it happens offscreen. She’s trained by multiple sul’dam, with Renna being one of them. Instead of directly showing the torture, Jordan uses Egwene’s reflections and conversations to convey the horrors.

While in the adaptation, Egwene's sul’dam, Renna, personally and brutally tortures her, pushing her to the point where she has to accept her collar and can no longer imagine resisting. A key moment is when she finally pours a glass of water for Renna without thinking of the pitcher as a weapon to resist. This scene showcases how the incident crushed her will.

In addition to this, the series introduces a rite of passage where Egwene is initiated into the Women's Circle by being submerged in a river. This is not part of the books. This addition symbolises her transition into adulthood and sets the tone for her journey ahead.

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The Wheel of Time indeed explores her ambitions and internal conflicts better than the book. Her desire to become an Aes Sedai and her competitive nature are more pronounced in the show. This nuanced portrayal further adds layers to her character, highlighting her drive and the struggles she is dealing with.

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