The Legacy (Forgotten Realms: Legacy of the Drow, #1; Legend of Drizzt, #7) Summary & Key Insights

R.A. Salvatore's The Legacy, seventh in the Legend of Drizzt series and the first in the Legacy of the Drow trilogy, marks a significant shift in focus from Drizzt Do'Urden's personal journey to a broader exploration of the impact of his actions and the legacy he’s inadvertently created. The narrative primarily centers on Zaknafein Do'Urden, Drizzt's father, whose story unfolds through flashbacks interwoven with the present-day adventures of a young drow, Artemis Entreri's protégé, and a contingent of Drizzt's friends.

The present-day plot follows the escalating conflict between the drow city of Menzoberranzan and the surface world. A powerful drow matron, Matron Malice, seeks to expand her power base, and her actions threaten both the surface dwellers and the uneasy peace Drizzt has fostered. This conflict serves as the backdrop for the introduction of a new generation of drow characters, forcing them to confront the legacy of their race and the choices of their predecessors. Among these is Jarlaxle, a charismatic drow mercenary, whose loyalty remains ambiguous but plays a crucial role in the unfolding events.

Simultaneously, the narrative delves into Zaknafein’s past, illuminating his life within Menzoberranzan, his complex relationship with his family, and his struggle against the deeply ingrained prejudices and brutality of his society. We witness his early days, his forbidden love for a noble drow, and the events that ultimately led to his estrangement from his clan and his eventual departure from the Underdark. Zaknafein's story reveals the origin of Drizzt's internal conflicts and explains the weight of his legacy.

The overarching theme is the cyclical nature of violence and prejudice, particularly within the drow society. It explores the possibility of breaking free from a toxic inheritance and the challenges faced by individuals who strive to defy the norms of their oppressive environment. While Drizzt's actions have had a profound impact on the Underdark, the story reveals that his escape and rebellion haven't eradicated the systemic problems. The book subtly critiques the limitations of individual heroism, showing that even significant acts of defiance can't instantly solve deeply entrenched societal issues.

The Legacy skillfully interweaves the past and the present, revealing the long-term consequences of choices made generations ago and setting the stage for a larger conflict that will further test Drizzt's commitment to peace and the fate of those caught in the crossfire of drow politics. The novel highlights the enduring impact of family legacy, both positive and negative, and the ongoing struggle for redemption and change within a society resistant to both.