Religion

Religion is presented as an oppressive force that harbors a true reality at the center of its corruption. The novel begins with Alina stuck inside the White Cathedral under the power of the Apparat. After nearly dying at the hands of the Darkling and being whisked away to the safety of the White Cathedral, the religious sanctuary hidden underground seems like a haven. However, the longer Alina spends inside the White Cathedral, the more the place feels like a prison and the Apparat feels like a cruel captor leading a false congregation.

The Apparat leads a religious cult that is oppressive towards its followers. He leads an entire army of faithful pilgrims who have flocked to him because they believe Alina to be a living Saint, but his leadership of his congregation is shown to be false and self-serving. Alina loses her powers in the previous...