The Divergent series by Veronica Roth has captivated millions with its thrilling dystopian themes, but one character stands out among fans—Tobias “Four” Eaton. His layered personality, emotional struggles, and impactful relationship with protagonist Tris Prior have made him an unforgettable part of the trilogy. This article delves into Four’s background, relationships, and development throughout the series, answering popular questions readers and viewers have about him.
Who Is Tobias Eaton in the Divergent Series?
Tobias Eaton, known as “Four,” is a member of the Dauntless faction, where he serves as a mentor for initiates. His nickname, “Four,” originates from his remarkable ability to face his fear simulations, having only four fears—a rare trait that sets him apart in this world of divided virtues. As the son of Marcus Eaton, a high-ranking member of the Abnegation faction, Four’s early life is marred by emotional and physical abuse, leaving deep scars and driving his decision to leave his family behind.
What Makes Four a Complex Character?
Tobias represents the struggle between societal expectations and individual identity. Unlike many Dauntless members, who thrive on reckless behaviour, Four embodies quieter and more calculated bravery. His goal isn’t to display raw strength but to navigate his fears and emotions wisely. As Four tells Tris, he doesn’t want to be limited to a single identity—brave, selfless, intelligent, or kind—but aims to embody all these traits. His struggle reflects the series’ broader theme of rejecting rigid labels and embracing personal growth.
Four’s romantic relationship with Tris Prior evolves significantly throughout the books. Initially hesitant to express his feelings due to the risks involved, he later becomes a crucial partner in Tris’s journey, showing the importance of mutual trust and emotional support in a world fractured by power struggles.
What Role Does Four Play in the Plot?
Throughout the Divergent series, Four is a critical ally to Tris, guiding her through the Dauntless initiation process and later standing by her side as she uncovers dangerous plots against Divergents—those who do not fit neatly into any single faction. His technical skills and experience as a mentor make him essential to the rebellion against corrupt leadership within Dauntless and Erudite.
His internal battle with fear manifests not only in the simulations but also in the real world, where he confronts his father and faces betrayal within the Dauntless hierarchy. These experiences underscore his development as someone who learns to reconcile his past while forging a new path forward.
What Happens in Four: A Divergent Collection?
Four: A Divergent Collection by Veronica Roth delves into the backstory of Tobias Eaton—later known as Four—and sheds light on pivotal moments that shape him before and during the events of the Divergent series. This anthology of four interconnected novellas offers readers insight into his experiences with different factions, his strained relationships, and the challenges he faces as both an initiate and a leader in Dauntless.
The Transfer
This section explores Four’s early life in the Abnegation faction. Raised by his abusive father, Marcus Eaton, Tobias struggles with fear and isolation. During his aptitude test, he unexpectedly demonstrates traits of multiple factions, revealing his Divergent nature. Seeking freedom from Marcus, Tobias makes the bold decision to leave Abnegation for Dauntless during the Choosing Ceremony, marking the start of his transformation into Four.
The Initiate
Once in Dauntless, Tobias faces gruelling initiation tests designed to expose his greatest fears. He impresses his instructor, Amar, with his low number of fears—only four—earning him the nickname “Four.” During his initiation, he meets other key characters like Eric, an Erudite transfer who later becomes his rival. As Tobias navigates his new faction, he grapples with embracing courage while leaving behind the meekness he adopted under his father’s control.
The Son
This novella deals with Four’s complicated relationships, particularly with his estranged mother, Evelyn, who was presumed dead. Evelyn reveals her affiliation with the factionless, hinting at future conspiracies involving power struggles between factions. This section also exposes Four’s growing suspicion of the Erudite leader, Jeanine Matthews, and her manipulative influence over Dauntless, which adds tension to his leadership ambitions. Ultimately, Four distances himself from both Evelyn and his father, forging his own identity within the Dauntless faction.
The Traitor
Set during the events of Divergent, this part presents the story from Four’s perspective, offering new insights into his budding relationship with Tris Prior, the series’ protagonist. It captures his inner conflict as he uncovers a plot involving Jeanine Matthews and Dauntless leaders to invade Abnegation. Four wrestles with the responsibility of protecting Tris while dealing with his mother’s ambitions to gain influence through the factionless. His role as an instructor allows him to monitor developments behind the scenes and navigate the precarious alliances forming between factions.
FAQs
Why is Tobias called Four?
He earned the nickname “Four” because his fear simulation test revealed only four fears—a remarkably low number for anyone in Dauntless. This becomes a defining part of his identity.
What are Four’s fears?
His fears are: heights, confinement, shooting an innocent person (symbolized by his father), and vulnerability in personal relationships, especially with Tris.
What is Four’s relationship with Tris?
Four and Tris develop a deep and complex relationship. Their bond is built on trust and shared values, but it also faces challenges due to the dangers surrounding them and their differing approaches to difficult decisions.
How does Four evolve over the series?
Four’s character arc involves confronting his traumatic past and learning to embrace emotional openness. He starts as a guarded individual but gradually learns to rely on others, particularly Tris, for emotional support.
What faction did Four originally belong to?
Four was born into the Abnegation faction, known for selflessness. However, he transferred to Dauntless to escape his abusive father and redefine himself.
Does Four have a role beyond the books?
Tobias Eaton is also featured in Roth’s Four: A Divergent Collection, which provides additional backstory and insights into his perspective during key events in the trilogy. These stories offer fans a deeper look into his character beyond what’s shown in the main series.
The Impact of Four’s Character on Fans and the Series
Four’s multidimensional personality makes him one of the most memorable characters in the Divergent series. His journey resonates with readers as it explores themes of fear, identity, and personal growth. Fans appreciate his realistic flaws and emotional depth, which add to the relatability of his character.
The romance between Four and Tris also plays a pivotal role in driving the narrative forward, blending action and emotional connection. The couple’s dynamic is a favorite topic among fans, as it highlights the importance of partnership and communication even in the most challenging situations.
Conclusion
Tobias “Four” Eaton is much more than a fearless hero; he is a character who embodies the complexity of human emotions and relationships. His development from a traumatized boy to a brave yet emotionally vulnerable man offers readers a compelling arc filled with personal battles and moments of triumph. The character’s presence adds depth to the Divergent series, making it not just a survival story but also about self-acceptance and the courage to redefine oneself.
For those seeking further insights, the Four: A Divergent Collection offers a more intimate glimpse into his world, enriching the understanding of his motivations and actions throughout the series. Fans continue to celebrate Four for his bravery, emotional depth, and ability to overcome personal demons in a fractured society.
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