Rhysand’s character development in theA Court of Thorns and Rosesbooksby Sarah J. Maas is a source of contention. Often, it is an omission that provokes dark theories, like Rhys' trauma from Under the Mountain not being adequately addressed when compared to the Archerons' trauma. Because of this, there are several theories that Rhysand, beneath the facade of the benevolent community builder of Velaris layer and the fearsome Court of Nightmares ruler exterior, is truly evil after all.
This is not the onlywild Rhysand theory amongACOTARreaders. If Maas went in this direction with Rhys' character, one of themost powerful characters inA Court of Thorns and Roses,it would put a lot of readers in a headspin and change the nature of the story in futureACOTARbooks.However, other readers muse that it would explain a lot of inconsistencies about his characterand redeem perceived hypocrisies about Feyre.
A Court Of Thorns & Roses' Evil Rhysand Theory Explained
This Wild Rhys Theory Is Not Without Good Points
“Evil Rhysand” theories, such as those outlined onReddit,suggest that Rhys might not be as good-intentioned as he appears. While many readers are taken in by his charm and unwavering loyalty to Feyre, these theories propose a darker side to his character.One prominentACOTARtheory posits that Rhysand is a master manipulator who uses his power and influence to control others,including Feyre, for his own gain. Rhysand’s kindness and generosity, according to this view, are merely a carefully crafted facade designed to win trust and manipulate those around him.
While his actions often seem altruistic, they may serve a larger, more sinister purpose.
Another theory suggests that Rhysand possesses a hidden agenda, perhaps connected to the ancient history of the Night Courtor a desire for ultimate power; he would have had to react very carefully to other characters' suggestions that he claim the title of high king inA Court of Silver Flamesto not reveal it if this was his goal all along. While his actions often seem altruistic, they may serve a larger, more sinister purpose. This theory often hinges on the ambiguous details he reveals about his history.
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Some readers also believe that Rhysand’s past trauma has left a lasting impact, potentially warping his personality and leading to hidden darkness or a deep-seated desire for revenge. This could manifest in subtle acts of control, a willingness to sacrifice others for his own ends, or a more pronounced tendency towards violence. It’s important to note that these theories are just speculations. However, exploring these alternative interpretations adds a layer of depth to the series, encouraging readers to question their assumptions about Rhys' character.
Sarah J. Maas Could Have Pulled Off Evil Rhysand During The Original ACOTAR Trilogy
The Ship Has Sailed On Including This Twist In ACOTAR
While this theory would make for a great twist onA Court of Thorns and Roses’Rhysand, Maas has now given Feyre and Rhys their happy ending after many trials and tribulations. If she was going to go down a darker path with the couple, she would have laid the groundwork and probably completed this arc in the original trilogy.While Rhysand is morally gray, he has a clear redemptive arc between the first book andA Court of Mist and Fury,the latter being acommon favorite out of the series. It wouldn’t make sense to undo this effort now.
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Rhys is one of the most important characters in the A Court of Thorns and Roses books, and this lovely artwork captures key aspects of his character.
Yet things could have gone drastically differently: Feyre, despite her flaws, isACOTAR’s ideal High Ladywho sees the best in people. She was spirited away to the Fae realm by Tamlin and believed she was in love because he showed her kindness, which trapped her in a role she didn’t want and had to be rescued from in agreat moment inA Court of Mist and Fury. Feyre’s being taken from one controlling situation to another by taking advantage of her good nature would certainly have been a dark turn, but it was never characterized that way.
It’s Too Late For A Court Of Thorns & Roses To Upend Rhysand & Feyre’s Relationship
Rhys & Feyre Endured A Lot To Start Their Life Together
However, if Maas introduced another Rhysand twist, while it would explain some concerns, it would nonetheless disappoint readers now. Despite some key valid complaints, such as withholding information Feyre has had to forgive, and questions regarding the Night Court’s obscene wealth,Rhys and Feyre’s relationship inACOTARis well-liked. It would also cast a sickening light onA Court of Mist and Fury,arguably one of the strongest books. Maas set up their romance so well that another twist would feel cruel. Furthermore, the couple now share a child, which would only make it worse to reveal Rhys has always been terrible.
Blindsiding readers by making them question their good faith in any of the well-established characters would not be a smart move.
It is also questionable what the point would be. Maas has clearly shifted the focus to other characters in the Inner Circle, with points of view highlighting Feyre’s older sisters, Nesta and Elain. There has also been a lot of build-up with conflicts with other Prythian courts, and the greater evil the entire country must face. Blindsiding readers by making them question their good faith in any of the well-established characters would not be a smart move narratively.ACOTARis a huge series that demands time and emotional investment, so the decision would be nonsensical.
There’s Still 1 Way That Evil Rhysand Could Happen In Future ACOTAR Books
Maas Could Utilize ACOTAR’s Frightening Magical Items
If Evil Rhysand were to happen in a future book, it would have to be a new threat influencing Rhysto turn evil. A consistent threat in theACOTARbooksis that power can be used or misused immensely. Artifacts like Briallyn’s crown are a significant danger inA Court of Silver Flamesbecause of the power of its influence. Cassian manages to resist this because of how Briallyn’s demands were worded, but such ancient artifacts have been used as a weapon throughout the series, with the Cauldron being another huge threat in the wrong hands.
10 Things You Missed About Rhysand In A Court Of Thorns & Roses
Rhysand from A Court of Thorns and Roses is a complicated character, with some of his most important qualities coming through in subtle moments.
Rhysand shows some fallibility inA Court of Silver Flames,with his determination to find a solution to Feyre’s dangerous pregnancy causing him to be deceitful. He also displays a fierce protectiveness of his mate and unborn child during the book, even threatening to kill Nesta. This goes a long way to thoughtfully portray a complex character, rather than putting him on a pedestal. This being said, it will be interesting to see how Rhysand’s family unit may make him ruthless to exterior threats in the next installment ofA Court of Thorns and Roses.
A Court of Thorns and Roses
2015
A Court of Mist and Fury
2016
A Court of Wings and Ruin
2017
A Court of Frost and Starlight(novella)
2018
2021
A Court of Thorns and Rosesbook #6
