For about three thousand years Aes Sedai have been at the top of the totem pole, but that's ok, because as far as they're concerned they'll just bend the world to their will and keep on marching... Oh wait, couple problems there.
The Black Ajah aside, I think one of the White Tower's biggest hangups is the term "wilder." Anyone not initiated with the Tower is clearly less than someone who is. It's been mentioned serveral times in this thread already--they're victims of their own propoganda. The Sea Folk and Wise Ones aren't so impressed, though.
Now the Oath Rod. In my last re-read, not sure which book, one of the dialogues between the Forsaken included, "Do they bind themselves like criminals?" and on a related note is Semirhage's choice to join the Shadow instead of accepting either "binding" or severing. As far as I can tell the Oath Rod was used to control criminals in the AoL. The fact that Aes Sedai "need" to swear the oaths merly creates the perseption that they are dangerous and need to be regulated. Wise Ones and Windfinders don't have this problem.
Their false sence of importance doesn't help them, either. You'd think they'd all be willing to serve the Dragon Reborn until the last battle has come and gone, but no, THEY have to win/lead/fight the last battle. With one hand behind their backs, no less. Oh, a little more honey in the tea, Rand.
White Tower/General Aes Sedai stupidity
in Wheel of Time Books
Posted
For about three thousand years Aes Sedai have been at the top of the totem pole, but that's ok, because as far as they're concerned they'll just bend the world to their will and keep on marching... Oh wait, couple problems there.
The Black Ajah aside, I think one of the White Tower's biggest hangups is the term "wilder." Anyone not initiated with the Tower is clearly less than someone who is. It's been mentioned serveral times in this thread already--they're victims of their own propoganda. The Sea Folk and Wise Ones aren't so impressed, though.
Now the Oath Rod. In my last re-read, not sure which book, one of the dialogues between the Forsaken included, "Do they bind themselves like criminals?" and on a related note is Semirhage's choice to join the Shadow instead of accepting either "binding" or severing. As far as I can tell the Oath Rod was used to control criminals in the AoL. The fact that Aes Sedai "need" to swear the oaths merly creates the perseption that they are dangerous and need to be regulated. Wise Ones and Windfinders don't have this problem.
Their false sence of importance doesn't help them, either. You'd think they'd all be willing to serve the Dragon Reborn until the last battle has come and gone, but no, THEY have to win/lead/fight the last battle. With one hand behind their backs, no less. Oh, a little more honey in the tea, Rand.
I know I'm forgetting something, but oh well.