magic

[rrrrr]

Is there real magic character in the books? Martin was sort of magic, because he could appear in dreams, but what else?

thanks.

[SoranMBane]

The actual fantasy elements of the Redwall series have always been very muted. In general, the "magic" in this series usually consists of relatively undramatic things like omens, prophetic dreams, ghostly visions, hypnosis, and at least a couple cases of reincarnation. About the most dramatic thing we see happen is the occasional instance of Martin's spirit actually possessing some living creature in order to impart a message (or, in one instance, to finish off a bad guy). Some creatures are definitely more prone to these things than others (such as the Badger Lords, certain seers, or Ublaz Mad Eyes), but there are perhaps even more characters who claim to possess magic powers, but are really just complete frauds (the Marlfoxes, Zwilt the Shade, or pretty much all the other seers). So, magic exists, but it's fairly rare and exclusive.

This is actually kind of interesting to think about; Redwall seems to sit in this weird middle ground, where it has the downplayed mysticism of low fantasy (in fact, arguably even more downplayed than something like Game of Thrones), but with the light tone and black-and-white morality of high fantasy.

[Edraithel]

Who was reincarnated? I haven't reread the series for awhile.

[SoranMBane]

From what I've heard, according to Jacques himself, Martin and Rose were reincarnated as Matthias and Cornflower.

[Edraithel]

Oh ok, I guess that's why I didn't know about it, since it's not mentioned in the books.

[Hickory]

Eh....

Most of the time, it's seer's luck. According to Long Patrol, Midge relies on luck in the first interrogation with Damug, the second is completely different. The only one I think might have a "spiritual connection" is Ermath, the seer for Ruggan Bor. She describes a spirit (vulpuz) in detail, speaks his words, etc, etc.

[redwallgurl]

Mainly magic is perceived as the spirit of Martin the Warrior, but personally I believe it's just someone to look up to and renew their spirits.

[rrrrr]

From what I've heard, according to Jacques himself, Martin and Rose were reincarnated as Matthias and Cornflower.

Yes, it says in Redwall

Am that is => Matthias

[vencelylalas]

i guess yes there's a real magic in books..since some books fiction authors have the power to create their own characters with magical powers

[Luftwaffles]

Mainly magic is perceived as the spirit of Martin the Warrior, but personally I believe it's just someone to look up to and renew their spirits.

I agree, Cluny once said that the sole idea of losing the tapestry with the image of Martin would be enough to destroy the morale and fighting spirit of the Redwallers.  

But that said, I don't think that there's real "magic" in the Redwall universe... nor it would be needed. They seem to do fine with their weapons and strategy.

[Lady Ashenwyte]

i guess yes there's a real magic in books..since some books fiction authors have the power to create their own characters with magical powers

An author can do anything they want with their characters.

Mainly magic is perceived as the spirit of Martin the Warrior, but personally I believe it's just someone to look up to and renew their spirits.

I agree, Cluny once said that the sole idea of losing the tapestry with the image of Martin would be enough to destroy the morale and fighting spirit of the Redwallers. 

But that said, I don't think that there's real "magic" in the Redwall universe... nor it would be needed. They seem to do fine with their weapons and strategy.

Morale is a big factor. A huge army could be routed by a tiny army if they did all they could to destroy their enemy's morale.

[Jetthebinturong]

Mainly magic is perceived as the spirit of Martin the Warrior, but personally I believe it's just someone to look up to and renew their spirits.

I agree, Cluny once said that the sole idea of losing the tapestry with the image of Martin would be enough to destroy the morale and fighting spirit of the Redwallers.  

But that said, I don't think that there's real "magic" in the Redwall universe... nor it would be needed. They seem to do fine with their weapons and strategy.

There is clearly real magic in the series, Martin's spirit talks to people and the badgers have accurate visions all the time

[Izeroth]

Mainly magic is perceived as the spirit of Martin the Warrior, but personally I believe it's just someone to look up to and renew their spirits.

I agree, Cluny once said that the sole idea of losing the tapestry with the image of Martin would be enough to destroy the morale and fighting spirit of the Redwallers. 

But that said, I don't think that there's real "magic" in the Redwall universe... nor it would be needed. They seem to do fine with their weapons and strategy.

There is clearly real magic in the series, Martin's spirit talks to people and the badgers have accurate visions all the time

Indeed. Unless all the Redwallers are hallucinating, magic certainly exists. However, much it is not exactly "traditional" magic, but rather a sort of mystical, spiritual form.

[Captain Tammo]

If the series has any magic, I would say that it's mostly spiritual/mystical. I know Brian said that religion was not a part of the Redwall world, but I would say the magic we see certainly has some religious influence.

[MatthiasMan]

When I think of magic, I think of a magician. So in that sense, yes, and no. In Redwall, I believe they dress up as magicians in order to infiltrate the abbey (correct me if I'm wrong).

But, generally the kind of magic in Redwall is more superstitious. Like omens and prophecies.