Goliath (Leviathan, #3) Summary & Key Insights

Scott Westerfeld's Goliath, the third book in the Leviathan trilogy, continues the steampunk-infused World War I alternate history, focusing on the clash between the Darwinist Clanker nation and the genetically-engineered Behemoths of the Republic. The narrative, told from the perspectives of Alek, a Clanker, and Deryn, a Behemoth, maintains its dual viewpoints, further intertwining their destinies and the fate of their warring nations.

The central plot revolves around the desperate race to acquire and utilize the legendary "Leviathan," a colossal airship capable of turning the tide of the war. While the previous books focused on the smaller-scale conflicts and personal journeys of Alek and Deryn, Goliath escalates the stakes to a global level, emphasizing the catastrophic consequences of unchecked ambition and the devastating power of advanced weaponry.

Alek, having escaped the clutches of the ruthless Dr. Barlow and his Clanker forces, finds himself embroiled in a complex political landscape. His loyalty to the increasingly fractured Clanker government is tested as he navigates treacherous alliances and uncovers a conspiracy threatening to unleash a weapon far more destructive than anything seen before. He continues to grapple with his identity, struggling to reconcile his aristocratic background with his burgeoning understanding of the common man's struggles.

Deryn, now a seasoned pilot and invaluable member of the Behemoth air force, faces her own challenges. Her relationship with Alek is tested by distance, mistrust, and the ever-present threat of war. She also contends with the internal conflicts within the Behemoth society, facing prejudice and skepticism about her abilities while simultaneously uncovering secrets about her own family's past. Her courage and sharp intellect remain crucial to the Behemoths' war effort.

The overarching theme of the trilogy continues in Goliath: the destructive nature of war and the importance of understanding and empathy in overcoming deep-seated prejudice. The stark contrast between the technologically advanced Clankers and the bio-engineered Behemoths underscores the potential dangers of both unchecked technological advancement and blind faith in genetic superiority. The characters' personal struggles mirror the larger conflict, highlighting the human cost of war and the difficult choices individuals must make in the face of overwhelming odds.

The book culminates in a breathtaking climax that sees the fate of the war, and indeed the world, hanging in the balance. Alek and Deryn must ultimately confront not only their enemies but also their own internal conflicts to prevent a global catastrophe and find a path towards a fragile peace. The ending leaves a sense of hope tempered by the awareness of the long road ahead in rebuilding a shattered world.