In the “Divergent” movie adaptation, Four, portrayed by Theo James, is 18 years old at the beginning of Tris Prior’s initiation into Dauntless. This age aligns with the age that Dauntless initiates typically leave their faction of origin to join Dauntless, marking a pivotal moment in his narrative and character development.
Understanding Four’s Character and Timeline
Four, born Tobias Eaton, is a central figure in the “Divergent” series. His complex background, internal struggles, and exceptional aptitude make him a captivating character. Understanding his age within the context of the storyline is crucial for appreciating his journey.
The Significance of Faction Selection Age
The age of 16 is a critical year in the “Divergent” universe. At this age, individuals are required to undergo an aptitude test to determine their most suitable faction. Subsequently, they participate in the Choosing Ceremony, where they make the definitive decision about which faction to join. While some remain with their birth faction, others, like Four and Tris, choose to transfer. Four, having left Abnegation two years prior, is older than the new initiates.
Mapping Four’s Life: Abnegation to Dauntless
Tobias Eaton spent the first 16 years of his life in Abnegation, enduring abuse from his father, Marcus Eaton. This experience profoundly shaped his personality and motivations. He subsequently transferred to Dauntless, where he adopted the name “Four,” indicative of his only having four fears in his fear landscape. By the time Tris arrives at Dauntless headquarters, Four has already established himself as a respected instructor and leader within the faction. This gives him a seasoned perspective, making him a mentor figure to the younger initiates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Four
Here are some frequently asked questions to delve deeper into understanding Four and his role in the “Divergent” narrative:
FAQ 1: How Old Was Four When He Left Abnegation?
Four, known as Tobias Eaton at the time, was 16 years old when he left Abnegation and joined Dauntless. This age is consistent with the mandatory Choosing Ceremony that occurs for all sixteen-year-olds in the “Divergent” society.
FAQ 2: Why Did Four Change His Name?
Tobias changed his name to Four to distance himself from his abusive father and to signify the minimal number of fears he possessed, a remarkable feat in the Dauntless faction. The name symbolized a fresh start and an attempt to define himself on his own terms.
FAQ 3: What Makes Four “Divergent”?
Four is Divergent because he shows aptitude for multiple factions during his aptitude test. Specifically, he shows aptitude for Abnegation, Erudite, and Dauntless, meaning he doesn’t neatly fit into any single faction’s values. This makes him a threat to the established order controlled by Jeanine Matthews and Erudite.
FAQ 4: What is Four’s Role in Dauntless Prior to Tris’s Arrival?
Before Tris joins Dauntless, Four is an instructor responsible for training new initiates. He is respected for his skills, strategic thinking, and surprisingly compassionate approach, even within the seemingly ruthless Dauntless environment. He is also secretly investigating irregularities within the faction, adding another layer to his character.
FAQ 5: How Does Four’s Age Impact His Relationship With Tris?
The age difference between Four (18) and Tris (16) contributes to their dynamic. Four acts as a mentor and protector to Tris initially, guiding her through the challenges of Dauntless initiation. However, their relationship evolves into a partnership based on mutual respect, trust, and shared beliefs. The slightly older age of Four allows him to provide guidance and support based on his experience within the faction.
FAQ 6: Does Four’s Age Differ Between the Book and the Movie?
No, Four’s age is consistent between the book and the movie adaptation of “Divergent.” He is 18 years old when Tris arrives at Dauntless in both versions of the story.
FAQ 7: How Does Four’s Abnegation Background Influence His Dauntless Persona?
Four’s Abnegation upbringing, focused on selflessness and humility, clashes with the Dauntless emphasis on bravery and fearlessness. This contrast creates internal conflict within him, allowing him to temper the Dauntless recklessness with a degree of compassion and strategic thinking derived from Abnegation values. He is more mindful of the consequences of actions.
FAQ 8: How Long Has Four Been in Dauntless Before the Events of “Divergent”?
Four has been in Dauntless for two years before the events of “Divergent.” This period allowed him to become a seasoned member, earn the respect of his peers, and become an instructor in the initiation process.
FAQ 9: What is the Significance of Four’s Fear Landscape?
Four’s fear landscape is significant because it reveals the roots of his trauma and the internal struggles he faces. The small number of fears (four, hence his name) does not mean he lacks fear; rather, it demonstrates his strength in confronting and overcoming his deepest anxieties. Facing these fears becomes crucial as the Divergent rebellion unfolds.
FAQ 10: How Does Four’s Personality Develop Throughout the Series?
Four’s personality evolves significantly throughout the “Divergent” series. He transitions from a guarded and somewhat detached instructor to a committed leader and partner. He learns to trust others, confront his past, and embrace his Divergence, making him a complex and compelling character.
FAQ 11: How Does Knowing Four’s Age Add to the Understanding of His Relationship with His Father?
Knowing Four’s age when he left Abnegation adds context to the power dynamic between him and his father. Leaving home at 16 after enduring years of abuse demonstrates his courage and resilience. The fact that Marcus still exerts control over Four later in the series highlights the lasting impact of his childhood trauma.
FAQ 12: What is Four’s Role in the “Insurgent” and “Allegiant” Movies?
In “Insurgent” and “Allegiant,” Four continues to be a vital figure in the fight against Erudite and the subsequent revelations about the true purpose of the faction system. He becomes a leader within the Divergent alliance, working alongside Tris to uncover the truth and ultimately challenge the controlling forces outside of Chicago. His continued growth, coupled with Tris’s, showcases the depth of their relationship.