Natalie Prior

Natalie Prior: A Complex and Influential Character in the Divergent Series

Introduction

Natalie Prior, a pivotal character in Veronica Roth’s Divergent series, is the mother of the protagonist Tris Prior and her brother Caleb. Born as Natalie Wright, she is originally from Milwaukee, another experimental city of the Bureau of Genetic Welfare, rather than Chicago as initially believed ^[2].

Natalie’s backstory is marked by tragedy and resilience. At the age of 16, she escaped from Milwaukee after her mother killed her father, and she was subsequently taken in by the Bureau. The Bureau’s leader, David, fell in love with her, and she was sent to Chicago to protect Divergents from Erudite’s extermination efforts. Here, she was integrated into the Dauntless faction under a fabricated identity, later transferring to Abnegation where she met and married Andrew Prior ^[2].

Natalie’s defining traits include her bravery, intelligence, and a deep commitment to protecting others. As a Divergent herself, she embodies the complexities and strengths of individuals who do not fit neatly into one faction. Her role in the narrative is crucial, as she not only influences Tris’s journey but also plays a significant part in the broader plot involving the Bureau and the factions.

Role in the Story

Natalie Prior’s storyline is intertwined with the central themes of the Divergent series. Initially presented as a selfless Abnegation member, her true origins and mission are gradually revealed. She was sent to Chicago to prevent the Erudite from eliminating Divergents and had been secretly working to save many Divergents, including Amar and George, by relocating them to the Bureau ^[2].

Her relationship with Tris is particularly significant. Natalie’s love and protective instincts drive many of her actions, and her conversations with Tris provide insight into the dangers and complexities of the faction system. For example, she explains to Tris that Divergents are feared because they cannot be controlled, highlighting the inherent threat they pose to the established order ^[5].

Natalie’s decisions are often driven by her desire to protect her family and the Divergent community. Her marriage to Andrew Prior and their transfer to Abnegation were strategic moves to blend in and gather information while continuing her mission. Her ultimate sacrifice in the first book underscores her commitment to these causes and has a profound impact on Tris’s character development.

Character Analysis

Natalie Prior is a multifaceted character whose personality, motivations, strengths, and flaws make her both compelling and relatable. Her bravery and selflessness are evident in her willingness to risk her life to protect others. She is intelligent and resourceful, having managed to navigate the complex faction system while keeping her true identity hidden.

One of her key motivations is the protection of her family and the Divergent community. This is driven by a deep sense of responsibility and love, as seen in her interactions with Tris and Caleb. Her strength lies in her ability to adapt and make difficult decisions, often putting the needs of others before her own.

However, Natalie also has flaws that make her more human. Her secrecy and the weight of her mission often isolate her, creating tension within her family. Her past experiences, particularly the trauma of her childhood, have shaped her into a cautious and sometimes distant figure.

Throughout the series, Natalie’s character undergoes significant development, particularly as her backstory is revealed. This adds depth to her character, making her more than just a supportive mother figure but a complex individual with her own narrative arc.

Themes and Symbolism

Natalie Prior embodies several key themes in the Divergent series. One of the most significant is the theme of freedom and the danger of a controlled society. As a Divergent, she represents the unpredictability and creativity that such societies fear and seek to eliminate. Her actions and sacrifices highlight the importance of individuality and the need for freedom from oppressive systems ^[5].

Another theme she symbolizes is the power of love and sacrifice. Her love for her family and her willingness to risk everything to protect them are central to the narrative. This theme is particularly evident in her final moments, where her sacrifice serves as a catalyst for Tris’s growth and the broader plot.

Natalie also represents the theme of identity and belonging. Her journey from Milwaukee to Chicago, and her transitions between factions, illustrate the challenges of finding one’s place in a society that values conformity. Her story underscores the idea that true identity cannot be confined by societal expectations.

Cultural Impact

Natalie Prior has had a significant cultural impact, particularly among fans of the Divergent series. Her character has been praised for her strength, intelligence, and selflessness. In the film adaptations, Ashley Judd’s portrayal of Natalie Prior was well-received, bringing the character to life in a way that resonated with audiences ^[2].

Her influence extends beyond the series itself. Natalie Prior’s character archetype—the strong, protective, and intelligent female figure—has inspired other works in young adult literature and media. Her story has also contributed to broader discussions about individuality, freedom, and the importance of family and sacrifice.

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences have generally praised Natalie Prior’s character. Her complexity and the depth of her backstory have been highlighted as strengths of the series. Reviewers have noted that her character adds a rich layer to the narrative, making the world of Divergent more nuanced and engaging.

However, some critics have argued that her character could have been further developed, particularly in the earlier books. Despite this, her impact on the story and her influence on Tris’s character have been widely acknowledged.

Legacy

Natalie Prior’s enduring appeal lies in her multifaceted character and the significant role she plays in the Divergent series. Her story continues to resonate with readers and audiences, particularly in contemporary discussions about individuality, freedom, and the importance of family.

Her legacy extends to inspiring other characters and storylines in young adult literature and media. The themes she embodies—such as the power of love, the danger of controlled societies, and the importance of individuality—remain relevant and compelling.

In conclusion, Natalie Prior is a pivotal character whose influence on the Divergent series and beyond is undeniable. Her complex personality, significant role in the narrative, and the themes she represents make her a memorable and impactful figure in contemporary literature.