Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novels are renowned for their blend of humor, heartwarming moments, and hair-raising adventures, largely attributed to Pratchett’s exceptional character development. Each character is imbued with relatable flaws and vulnerabilities, making them resonate with readers. Even the most beleaguered souls find a semblance of joy and peace by the conclusion of their journeys, illustrating the profound human experience interwoven in these tales.
Across the 41 Discworld novels, along with numerous short stories and supplementary works, several characters emerge as ideal candidates for protagonists in a potential TV adaptation of Discworld. Although various adaptations have been attempted over the years, they have only scratched the surface of the rich narrative tapestry that Pratchett crafted. The following ten characters stand out as perfect choices for leading roles, provided the right creative vision is applied by the showrunners.
10
William de Worde
First Appears In: The Truth (2000)
William de Worde, Ankh-Morpork’s determined investigative journalist, first graced readers’ pages in 1994’s The Discworld Companion and made his full official debut in 2000’s The Truth. As the estranged son of a Lord in Ankh-Morpork, William unwittingly assumes the role of editor for the Disc’s inaugural newspaper. His journey unfolds as he uncovers a web of intrigue, ultimately thwarting a conspiracy aimed at framing the city’s Patrician, Lord Vetinari, for murder. This narrative arc not only showcases his journalistic prowess but also highlights the chaotic nature of the city.
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These ten moments combine the profound and the absurd in the way only Sir Terry could, giving us a uniquely sideways glance at human nature.
De Worde?s narrative potential is immense, particularly within a series that explores Ankh-Morpork?s eccentric modernization. His journey in The Truth serves as a lens through which the audience can witness a city grappling with the complexities of establishing a free, albeit imperfect, press. Furthermore, his character reappears in later novels, notably when he takes on the role of a war correspondent in Borogravia during the events of Monstrous Regiment, further expanding his story arc.
9
The Unseen University Faculty
First Appear In: The Light Fantastic (1986)
At the heart of Ankh-Morpork, the Unseen University stands as the premier institution for arcane studies, and its faculty members are characterized by their eccentricities?each one is more peculiar than the last. Early narratives, such as The Light Fantastic, highlight the darkly humorous reality that many wizards are elderly, leading to a cutthroat atmosphere where promotions are often achieved through subtle assassinations, giving a sinister twist to the real-world saying, “publish or perish.” Over time, later novels portray these wizards with a more comical lens, emphasizing their absurdity.
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Senior Faculty Members of the Unseen University |
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Position |
Name |
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Archchancellor |
Mustrum Ridcully |
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Bursar |
A. A. Dinwiddle |
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Dean |
Henry Porter |
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Senior Wrangler |
Horace |
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Chair of Indefinite Studies |
Unknown |
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Lecturer in Recent Runes |
Unknown (not Arnold) |
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Head of Inadvisably Applied Magic |
Ponder Stibbons |
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Egregious Professor of Cruel and Unusual Geography |
Rincewind |
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Head of the Department of Post-Mortem Communications |
Dr. John Hicks |
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Librarian |
Dr. Horace Worblehat |
The Unseen University offers a rich tapestry of stories ripe for adaptation. The 2008 adaptation of The Colour of Magic by Sky One, featuring Tim Curry as the scheming wizard Trymon, serves as an excellent foundation. The wizards play pivotal roles in many subsequent novels, presenting ample opportunities to depict their absurdities and eccentricities in a new series.
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Former Archchancellors of the Unseen University |
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Name |
|
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Galder Weatherwax |
Eaten by the Luggage |
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Ymper Trymon |
Thrown off the Tower of Art |
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Virrid Wayxygoose |
Killed by an errant magical staff |
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Alberto Malich |
Trapped forever as Death’s butler |
Notably, the wizards play significant roles in Soul Music, where they exhibit unexpected adolescent angst due to the influence of the Music With Rocks In, which poses a threat to the stability of the Disc. Unseen Academicals further explores the Unseen University, answering the intriguing question of what occurs when an orangutan becomes the goalie of a rugby team filled with nerdy old wizards.
8
Rincewind
First Appears In: The Light Fantastic (1986)
The ever-anxious Rincewind stands out as one of the Disc’s most humorous yet cowardly protagonists. No other character can match Rincewind’s speed when it comes to evading danger, showcasing Discworld‘s unique blend of absurdity and heartfelt narratives as he journeys to distant lands like Foureks and Howondaland. His experiences highlight the series’ ability to weave comedy with genuine emotion.
Rincewind’s character was featured in the 2008 adaptation of The Colour of Magic, which vividly portrayed his frantic survival during the plots of the first two Discworld novels?an excellent performance by David Jason that perfectly captured Rincewind?s fearful nature. His ongoing adventures throughout the series provide a captivating basis for a potential show that emphasizes his remarkable escapades across the Disc.
7
Polly Perks
First Appears In: Monstrous Regiment (2003)
