Divergent is a dystopian young adult novel series by author Veronica Roth. The series is set in a society divided into five factions, each upholding a distinct virtue. The protagonist, Tris Prior, must decide her place in this divided society and navigate the trials of her choice.
The series’ key themes revolve around identity, choice, and consequence, delivered through fast-paced plots and complex characters. The story is a thrilling blend of adventure, romance, and self-discovery, making it a favorite among young adults.
All the Divergent Books in Order
- Divergent (2011)
- Insurgent (2012)
- Allegiant (2013)
- Four: A Divergent Collection (2014)
- We Can Be Mended (2017)
summary of every book
Divergent (2011)
“Divergent” introduces us to a dystopian Chicago, where society is divided into five factions, each representing a different virtue: Abnegation (the selfless), Candor (the honest), Erudite (the intelligent), Amity (the peaceful), and Dauntless (the brave). The story follows Beatrice “Tris” Prior, born into Abnegation, but who feels she doesn’t fit in.
At sixteen, everyone must choose their faction. During her aptitude test, Tris learns she is Divergent, equally suitable for Abnegation, Dauntless, and Erudite. This discovery puts her life in danger, as Divergents are considered threats to society.
Ignoring the danger, Tris chooses Dauntless and enters their rigorous initiation process. She befriends fellow initiates and forms a romantic relationship with her mentor, Four. Tris excels in her training, but her Divergent nature allows her to surpass her peers, particularly in mental challenges.
Meanwhile, she discovers a plot by Erudite and traitorous Dauntless to overthrow the Abnegation-led government. In the climax, Tris and Four, who is also Divergent, stop the plan, but not before many lives are lost.
Insurgent (2012)
“Insurgent” continues the story immediately after the previous book’s events. Tris, Four, and their allies find temporary sanctuary with Amity, but trouble follows them. Haunted by her mother’s death and guilt for killing her friend, Tris struggles to be a leader. The book centers on the ongoing struggle against Erudite’s tyranny.
The factionless (those who failed initiation or left their factions) emerge as a significant force in this book, led by Four’s mother, Evelyn.
Erudite leader Jeanine Matthews needs a Divergent to open a mystery box from the city founders, which she believes will help her solidify her control over the city. Tris, being a powerful Divergent, is captured and tested with simulations.
Eventually, she opens the box, revealing a message from the city’s founders that their society was an experiment, and Divergents are proof it has succeeded.
Allegiant (2013)
“Allegiant” takes Tris, Four, and their friends beyond the city walls. They discover the Bureau of Genetic Welfare, which oversees the city’s experiment from outside. They learn the city was intended to produce genetically “pure” individuals (Divergent) over time, as the outside world is genetically “damaged.” The faction system was a means of attempting genetic purification.
However, the Bureau manipulates memory serums to control dissent inside the city, planning to reset it after the shocking revelations. Tris and her friends decide to confront the Bureau. The climax sees Tris sacrificing herself to release a memory serum on the Bureau, ensuring the city’s freedom.
Quick Fact: The book ends with the city inhabitants learning the truth, and the faction system is disbanded in favor of a Council representing all city residents.
Four: A Divergent Collection (2014)
“Four: A Divergent Collection” is a companion book consisting of four prequel stories following Four’s character (Tobias Eaton). The first, “The Transfer,” covers his Choosing Day when he leaves Abnegation for Dauntless. “The Initiate” covers his Dauntless initiation. “The Son” shows his time as a new member of Dauntless and his discovery of corruption within its ranks.
Finally, “The Traitor” overlaps with events from “Divergent” and gives us his perspective of Tris’s initiation.
We Can Be Mended (2017)
“We Can Be Mended” is a short epilogue released as part of the ‘Carve the Mark’ series, also by Veronica Roth. It provides a glimpse into the life of Tobias Eaton five years after the events of “Allegiant.”
To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of the Divergent series, it’s best to read the books in the order they were published. This way, the storyline progressively unfolds, deepening your understanding and emotional connection with the characters.
In what order do I watch Divergent?
The Divergent series was adapted into a series of films released by Summit Entertainment. The movies should be watched in the following order:
- Divergent (2014)
- Insurgent (2015)
- Allegiant (2016)
Is there 4 movie in the Divergent series?
Regarding your second question, no, there isn’t a fourth movie in the Divergent series. The original plan was to adapt the final book, “Allegiant,” into two films, following a trend set by other young adult franchises like “Harry Potter,” “The Hunger Games,” and “Twilight.” The first part, “Allegiant,” was released in 2016.
The second part, which was supposed to be titled “Ascendant,” was initially scheduled for a 2017 theatrical release.
Why is there no 4th Divergent movie?
However, due to the underwhelming box office performance and mixed critical reception of “Allegiant,” plans for the fourth movie were canceled. Instead, it was announced that the series would conclude with a TV movie followed by a spin-off television series, but, this plan also did not come to fruition.
The decision not to move forward with the fourth film disappointed many fans looking forward to seeing the conclusion of Tris and Four’s story on the big screen.
What are the five factions in the Divergent series, and what virtues do they represent?
The society in the Divergent series is divided into five factions, each representing a different virtue. These are Abnegation (the selfless), Candor (the honest), Erudite (the intelligent), Amity (the peaceful), and Dauntless (the brave). Each faction upholds and lives by its respective virtue, shaping its lifestyle, responsibilities, and roles in society.
Who is the protagonist of the Divergent series, and what makes her unique?
The protagonist of the Divergent series is Beatrice “Tris” Prior. She’s unique because, during her aptitude test, she discovers that she is Divergent, meaning she does not fit into just one faction but exhibits qualities of multiple ones specifically Abnegation, Dauntless, and Erudite.
This is a rare and dangerous status in her society, making her a target but also equipping her with extraordinary abilities that prove crucial to the storyline.
What is the dangerous secret that Tris discovers about her society in the first book?
In the first book, “Divergent,” Tris uncovers a plot led by the Erudite faction, in alliance with some Dauntless members, to overthrow the Abnegation-led government. They plan to use a mind-control serum on Dauntless soldiers to execute the coup, marking the beginning of violent conflict and upheaval in their society.
What is the purpose of the mystery box in “Insurgent”?
The mystery box in “Insurgent” is a device that contains a message from the founders of the city. Erudite leader Jeanine Matthews believes that the box will help her consolidate control over the city. When Tris eventually opens it, they discover that their society was an experiment by the founders, and the Divergents are proof the experiment has been successful.
What major revelation occurs when Tris and her friends go beyond the city walls in “Allegiant”?
When Tris, Four, and their friends venture beyond the city walls in “Allegiant,” they encounter the Bureau of Genetic Welfare. The Bureau reveals that their city was part of an experiment to produce genetically “pure” individuals, or Divergent, as the outside world is “genetically damaged.” The faction system was a means to this end.
What does “Four: A Divergent Collection” cover?
“Four: A Divergent Collection” is a set of four short stories written from the perspective of the character Four, whose real name is Tobias Eaton. The stories serve as a prequel to the main trilogy, providing an insight into Four’s life before Tris.
The stories cover his decision to leave Abnegation for Dauntless, his initiation into Dauntless, his discovery of corruption within the faction, and his perspective of Tris’s initiation.
Why was there no fourth movie in the Divergent series?
Despite the initial plan to adapt the final book, “Allegiant,” into two movies, the fourth film, titled “Ascendant,” was never produced. The reason was the underwhelming box office performance and mixed critical reception of the third film, “Allegiant.”
Instead, it was announced that the series would conclude with a TV movie and a spin-off television series, but as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, these plans have not been realized.
What is the primary setting of the Divergent series?
The Divergent series is primarily set in a dystopian version of Chicago. The city is divided into five factions: Abnegation, Candor, Erudite, Amity, and Dauntless. The layout of the city reflects this division, with each faction inhabiting a distinct part of the city. Later in the series, the setting expands beyond the city’s boundaries.
Veronica Roth wrote the Divergent series. Through her novels, she explores several themes, such as the struggle of individuality versus conformity, the power of choice, the consequences of secrecy and revelation, and the complexity of identity and belonging.
How does Tris Prior’s character develop throughout the series?
Tris starts as an uncertain and uncomfortable teenager in her home faction, Abnegation. Through her journey, she evolves into a brave, independent, and resilient young woman, adapting to life in Dauntless. Tris grapples with issues of identity, loyalty, courage, and love, eventually even making the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good in “Allegiant.”
Why is Divergent seen as a threat in the society depicted in the Divergent series?
Divergents are seen as threats because they don’t fit neatly into one faction; they embody qualities of multiple factions. This makes them unpredictable in a society that values predictability and order. Divergents are also immune to the simulation serums that factions use for various purposes, making them harder to control.
What role does Four play in the Divergent series?
Four, whose real name is Tobias Eaton, is a central character in the Divergent series. Initially, he’s Tris’s mentor during her Dauntless initiation. As the series progresses, he becomes Tris’s love interest and a significant ally. He’s also revealed to be Divergent and plays a crucial role in resisting the oppressive forces within their society.
What is the significance of the message in the mystery box revealed in “Insurgent”?
The message in the mystery box is significant as it reveals the truth behind the faction system and the city’s purpose. It confirms that their city was designed as an experiment by the Bureau of Genetic Welfare to repair genetic damage in humans and produce genetically “pure” Divergent. This revelation drastically changes the course of the series.
What does the cancellation of the fourth Divergent movie signify about the success of book-to-film adaptations?
The cancellation of the fourth Divergent movie underlines the uncertainties and challenges of book-to-film adaptations. Despite a strong start, the Divergent series couldn’t maintain its momentum at the box office. It shows that success in the book market does not always guarantee success in film.
Several factors could influence this, such as deviation from the source material, casting decisions, or market saturation for certain genres.
In conclusion, the Divergent series, both the books, and films, offers a compelling exploration of a dystopian society, vibrant characters, and thought-provoking themes. Despite the unfortunate turn of events with the movie adaptations, the series remains a cornerstone of young adult dystopian literature.
Veronica Roth’s imagination and storytelling prowess have provided readers with a rich narrative that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.