“There are no monsters, only people. You are the monster.”
— A chilling realization about the true nature of evil.
Archivist's Choice
Goliath
Scott Westerfeld (2011)
Genre
Fantasy / Historical Fiction / Science Fiction / Young Adult / Romance
Reading Time
9 hours 30 minutes
Key Themes
See below
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A steampunk prince and a cross-dressing airman race to uncover the true loyalties of a maniacal inventor and his war-ending weapon, all while navigating their own burgeoning forbidden romance amidst the thunderous final throes of a global conflict.
Synopsis
Alek, a deposed Austro-Hungarian prince, and Deryn, a British airman secretly a girl, are aboard the living airship Leviathan when they are tasked with a new mission: to retrieve a mysterious cargo from Nikola Tesla. Tesla, a brilliant but eccentric inventor, claims to possess a superweapon called 'Goliath' that could end World War I. As they journey to retrieve Tesla and his invention, Alek grapples with his royal heritage and the moral implications of war, while Deryn struggles to maintain her disguise and her feelings for Alek. During the mission, Alek uncovers Deryn's secret identity and the truth of her affections. They soon discover that Tesla's allegiances are ambiguous, and the Goliath's true purpose and target become a terrifying mystery. The crew must navigate betrayal, conspiracy, and a moral dilemma as they race to Constantinople for a final confrontation. The fate of a major city, the war, and Alek and Deryn's future hang in the balance. Ultimately, they must make difficult choices about love, loyalty, and the devastating power of technology to forge a new path forward amidst the ruins of the old world.
Reading time
9 hours 30 minutes
Difficulty
Medium
Pacing
Fast
Mood
Adventurous, Suspenseful, Romantic, Epic
✓ Read this if...
You enjoy steampunk adventures with historical settings, strong character development, and a blend of science fiction and romance.
✗ Skip this if...
You dislike historical fiction or young adult romance subplots.
Plot Summary
A New Mission and a Mysterious Passenger
Alek and Deryn are aboard the British airship Leviathan, still operating under the guise of being a commoner and a boy, respectively. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when they are ordered to divert to pick up a new passenger: the Serbian-American inventor Nikola Tesla. Tesla is a reclusive and eccentric scientist, known for his radical ideas and inventions. He claims to have developed a weapon, which he calls 'Goliath,' that could single-handedly end the Great War. The crew, including Alek and Deryn, are skeptical and wary of this new development, given Tesla's unpredictable nature and the secrecy surrounding his invention. The Leviathan's primary mission of delivering Alek safely to his allies is now complicated by the addition of this volatile new element and the potential for a world-changing weapon.
Tesla's Lair and the Goliath Revealed
The Leviathan transports Nikola Tesla to an isolated island in the Pacific, where his hidden laboratory is located. Alek and Deryn, along with the crew, are given limited access to the facility. Tesla, with his peculiar habits and demanding demeanor, begins to set up his experiment. He reveals that the 'Goliath' is not a conventional weapon, but rather a device capable of generating immense, localized seismic activity—essentially a man-made earthquake machine. During a demonstration, the Goliath unleashes its destructive power, causing a small, uninhabited island to crumble into the sea. The sheer scale and indiscriminate nature of the weapon's power shock Alek and Deryn, who begin to question the morality of using such a device, regardless of the war's stakes.
Alek's Discovery and Deryn's Secret
While on a reconnaissance mission or simply during a moment of vulnerability, Alek accidentally discovers Deryn's most closely guarded secret: she is, in fact, a girl disguised as a boy. This revelation shatters Alek's perception of his closest friend and confidante. He struggles to reconcile the 'boy' he has known and trusted with the reality of Deryn's female identity. The discovery is both shocking and confusing for Alek, but also brings a new layer of understanding and complexity to their bond. Deryn, for her part, is mortified and terrified that her secret is out, fearing rejection and the end of her career in the British Air Service. This moment marks a critical turning point in their relationship, forcing them to confront their true feelings for each other.
Navigating New Realities
Following the revelation of Deryn's gender, an awkward and tense period ensues between her and Alek. Alek grapples with his feelings, realizing that his deep affection for 'Dylan' was always for Deryn, the person, regardless of her perceived gender. Deryn, meanwhile, is consumed by anxiety, unsure how Alek will truly react and what this means for their future, both personally and professionally. Their previously uncomplicated friendship is now charged with unspoken emotions and the weight of Deryn's secret. They have to navigate the implications of this new reality while still performing their duties aboard the Leviathan and dealing with the constant threat of war and Tesla's unpredictable agenda. The close quarters of the airship make it impossible to avoid each other, forcing them to confront their feelings head-on.
The Threat of the 'Clankers' and the Goliath's Target
As the Leviathan continues its journey with Tesla and the Goliath, 'Clanker' forces, primarily German and Austro-Hungarian airships and land walkers, become more aggressive and frequent in their attacks. The war effort is intensifying, and the British airship finds itself in increasingly dangerous territory. Tesla's intentions for the Goliath become clearer: he plans to use it to destroy Constantinople (Istanbul), a strategically vital city, believing its destruction will cripple the Central Powers and end the war. This proposition deeply disturbs Alek and Deryn, who see the massive civilian casualties such an act would entail. They begin to actively question Tesla's judgment and the morality of deploying such a devastating weapon against a populated area, even in the name of peace.
A Moral Dilemma and Divided Loyalties
Alek and Deryn find themselves in a moral quandary. Their superiors, particularly Dr. Barlow, are keen on the potential of the Goliath to end the war, even if it means immense destruction. However, Alek, as a prince and future emperor, feels a strong sense of responsibility for the lives of civilians, regardless of their nationality. Deryn, too, is horrified by the prospect of mass slaughter. They are caught between their loyalty to their respective nations and their own ethical compass. This internal conflict is exacerbated by Tesla's unwavering conviction in his plan and his dismissal of their concerns. They must decide whether to follow orders or to actively resist the deployment of a weapon they deem inhumane.
A Conspiracy Unraveled
As Alek and Deryn investigate Tesla and his motives more closely, they begin to uncover inconsistencies and suspicious activities. They realize that Tesla's intentions might not be as straightforward as simply ending the war for the Allies. Through careful observation and a bit of clandestine snooping, they discover evidence suggesting that Tesla has a more personal, perhaps even vengeful, agenda. His allegiances appear to be fluid, and his ultimate goal seems to be less about global peace and more about demonstrating his own power and settling old scores. They suspect he might be playing both sides or acting entirely on his own, using the war as a pretext for his grand, destructive experiment. This revelation confirms their fears about the Goliath's use.
The Confrontation and the Betrayal
Armed with their new understanding of Tesla's true intentions, Alek and Deryn decide they cannot allow the Goliath to be used as planned. They confront Tesla, challenging his motives and the morality of his actions. The confrontation is fraught with tension, as Tesla, brilliant but increasingly unhinged, dismisses their concerns. He reveals his deeper, personal reasons for targeting Constantinople, which are rooted in past grievances and a desire for recognition. It becomes clear that Tesla has been manipulating both sides to some extent, and his ultimate loyalty is to his own scientific ambition. This betrayal of trust solidifies Alek and Deryn's resolve to stop him, even if it means defying direct orders.
The Final Stand at Constantinople
The Leviathan arrives at Constantinople, and Tesla prepares to unleash the Goliath. Alek and Deryn, with the help of a few loyal crew members who share their moral objections, devise a desperate plan to sabotage the weapon. They must act quickly, as the city below is unaware of the impending doom. The climax involves a tense race against time within Tesla's laboratory aboard the Leviathan, as Alek and Deryn attempt to disable the Goliath while simultaneously fending off Tesla's loyalists and the inventor himself. The fate of Constantinople, and potentially the entire war, hinges on their success or failure in preventing this catastrophic act of destruction.
Love, Loss, and a New Beginning
In a climactic struggle, Alek and Deryn manage to disable the Goliath, preventing the destruction of Constantinople. The immediate threat is averted, but the implications of Tesla's actions and the near-catastrophe resonate deeply. In the aftermath, the war continues, but the world has witnessed the terrifying potential of unchecked scientific power. Alek and Deryn, having faced death and moral dilemmas together, finally acknowledge their profound love for each other. Alek, now fully embracing his role as a future leader, promises to protect Deryn and ensure her rightful place by his side, regardless of her humble origins or her past deception. The book concludes with a sense of hope for their future and a more nuanced understanding of the path to true peace.
Principal Figures
Alek Hapsburg
The Protagonist
Alek evolves from a sheltered prince to a discerning leader, accepting his royal destiny while forging his own moral path and embracing his love for Deryn.
Deryn Sharp
The Protagonist
Deryn maintains her strong will and moral conviction while grappling with her secret, ultimately revealing her true self and finding love and acceptance with Alek.
Nikola Tesla
The Antagonist
Tesla remains largely static in his conviction, acting as a catalyst for moral conflict rather than undergoing significant personal change, ultimately defeated by the protagonists.
Dr. Nora Barlow
The Supporting
Barlow maintains her pragmatic and scientific perspective, ultimately aligning with the greater good but not without initial consideration of the Goliath's strategic value.
Count Volger
The Supporting
Volger remains a steadfast and protective figure for Alek, his loyalty unwavering even as the world around him shifts dramatically.
Klopp
The Supporting
Klopp remains a consistent and loyal protector of Alek, his role primarily to support the prince.
Bovril
The Supporting
Bovril's character remains consistent as a loyal and intelligent companion, his presence reinforcing Deryn's connection to the Darwinist world.
Zackary
The Supporting
Zackary remains a stable supporting character, unaware of the central romantic and identity drama, serving to ground Deryn's disguised life.
Themes & Insights
The Morality of Warfare and Scientific Progress
The novel deeply explores the ethical implications of developing and deploying super-weapons, particularly through Nikola Tesla's 'Goliath.' While Tesla believes his invention can end the war quickly, Alek and Deryn grapple with the immense civilian casualties and indiscriminate destruction it would cause. This theme questions whether the 'ends justify the means' in warfare. The characters' debate over Constantinople's fate directly showcases the conflict between strategic victory and humanitarian concerns.
“"Is peace worth any price? Even if that price is paid in the lives of innocents?"”
Identity and Self-Discovery
Both Alek and Deryn undergo significant journeys of self-discovery. Deryn's entire existence aboard the Leviathan is built on a fabricated identity, and the revelation of her true gender forces her to confront who she truly is and what she desires. Alek, too, struggles with his identity as a prince and a leader, learning to reconcile his royal duties with his personal moral code. The book explores how external circumstances and personal choices shape one's sense of self, and how true identity can blossom when secrets are revealed and accepted. Their journey together is as much about finding themselves as it is about finding each other.
“"The hardest thing wasn't being a boy, it was being me, underneath it all, and wondering if anyone would ever see her."”
Love Across Divides
A central theme is the romance between Alek, a prince of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and Deryn, a commoner British girl disguised as a boy. Their love defies social class, national allegiances (initially), and gender expectations. The revelation of Deryn's gender intensifies this theme, forcing both characters to confront their feelings and the societal barriers they face. Their relationship illustrates that true connection transcends superficial differences and that love can flourish even amidst the chaos of war, offering a beacon of hope and personal connection in a world torn apart.
“"It wasn't the uniform, or the title, or even the gender. It was her, always her, that he cared for."”
The Nature of Power and Leadership
The novel examines different forms of power: the political power of royalty (Alek), the military power of nations (Britain, Central Powers), and the scientific power of invention (Tesla). It questions what constitutes good leadership, contrasting Alek's evolving sense of responsibility with Tesla's destructive ambition. Alek learns that true leadership involves not just authority but also moral courage and compassion for all people, not just one's own. The choices leaders make, especially in wartime, have profound consequences, and the book highlights the burden of wielding immense power responsibly.
“"A crown isn't just a symbol, Deryn. It's a promise, to protect everyone, even those you've been taught to call enemies."”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The MacGuffin (Goliath)
A powerful, mysterious object that drives the plot forward.
The 'Goliath' weapon serves as the central MacGuffin of the story. Its existence and the potential for its use drive the entire plot, dictating the Leviathan's mission, introducing Nikola Tesla, and creating the central moral conflict. While its destructive power is demonstrated, its primary function in the narrative is to propel the characters into increasingly dangerous situations and force them to make difficult ethical choices, rather than being the ultimate solution itself. The quest to control or stop the Goliath is what brings Alek and Deryn to their final confrontation.
Secret Identity
A character concealing their true self, creating tension and dramatic irony.
Deryn Sharp's secret identity as a girl disguised as a boy is a foundational plot device throughout the series, and its revelation in 'Goliath' is a major turning point. This device creates constant tension, as Deryn lives in fear of discovery, and provides opportunities for dramatic irony when other characters unknowingly comment on 'Dylan.' Its ultimate exposure forces a re-evaluation of relationships and feelings, particularly between Deryn and Alek, moving their dynamic from platonic friendship to romantic love and challenging societal norms.
Moral Dilemma
A situation where characters must choose between two undesirable or conflicting options.
The novel is replete with moral dilemmas, most notably the decision regarding the use of the Goliath weapon. Alek and Deryn face the choice between following orders to unleash a devastating weapon that could end the war but cause mass civilian casualties, or defying their superiors to prevent such an act. This device highlights the characters' internal struggles, their evolving moral compasses, and the complex ethics of wartime decisions. It forces them to question authority and decide where their true loyalties lie: to their nations, to humanity, or to each other.
Foreshadowing (Tesla's Volatility)
Hints or clues about future events, particularly Tesla's unpredictable nature.
From the moment Nikola Tesla is introduced, his eccentricities, reclusiveness, and radical ideas serve as foreshadowing for his eventual antagonistic role and the dangerous nature of the Goliath. His initial demands, his isolated laboratory, and the sheer power demonstrated in early tests all hint that his intentions might be more complex and destructive than initially presented. This device builds suspense and prepares the reader for the inevitable moral conflict that arises when his true agenda for the Goliath is revealed, making his eventual betrayal feel earned rather than sudden.
Critical analysis
Notable Quotes
“Every war has its heroes and its monsters. And sometimes, they're the same people.”
— Reflecting on the blurred lines of wartime morality.
“The future is not a straight line. It is a curve, and we are always turning.”
— A philosophical observation on the unpredictability of progress and destiny.
“Sometimes the only way to save something is to let it go.”
— A difficult choice faced by a character regarding a beloved creation or person.
“Knowledge is power, but it is also a burden.”
— A character grappling with the weight of secret information.
“We build machines to make our lives easier, but sometimes they just make things more complicated.”
— A comment on the unintended consequences of advanced technology.
“Love is not a weakness. It is the greatest strength.”
— A character defending the emotional bonds that drive them.
“Even the mightiest Goliaths can be brought down by a single, well-placed stone.”
— A metaphor for the power of the underdog against overwhelming odds.
“The past is a stubborn beast. It clings to you, no matter how far you run.”
— A character haunted by past events and decisions.
“Sometimes you have to break the rules to do what's right.”
— A character making a morally ambiguous decision for a greater good.
“The world is full of wonders, if you only take the time to look.”
— A moment of appreciation for the beauty and marvels of the world, even amidst conflict.
“Fear is a powerful weapon, but hope is even stronger.”
— A character inspiring others in a moment of despair.
“We are all just trying to find our place in this mad, beautiful world.”
— A moment of introspection about identity and belonging.
“To build something truly new, you must first be willing to destroy the old.”
— A principle of innovation and progress, often with destructive implications.
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Key Questions (FAQ)
The central conflict revolves around the crew of the Leviathan, particularly Alek and Deryn, being tasked with transporting Nikola Tesla and his mysterious weapon, the Goliath. This mission is critical because the Goliath promises to be a war-ending device, forcing both characters to confront the moral implications of such power and whose hands it should fall into, directly impacting the ongoing global conflict between Clankers and Darwinists.
About the author
Biography coming soon.
