When cultures collide, and innocent bystanders are caught in the middle, how far does the right to hold separate beliefs extend? Does one culture have a right to infringe on those beliefs, if its people are in danger? In "Thud!", through his use of Commander Vimes as a catalyst, Terry Pratchett illustrates his belief that the freedoms of individuals supercede those of cultural identity. Reminiscent of the race riots in our country's history, the trolls …showed first 75 words of 803 total…

…showed last 75 words of 803 total…those with level heads are constantly attempting to keep everyone alive and happy. In this way it is a direct comparison and criticism of our own society. By removing his readers from the situation, and allowing them to be outside observers, Pratchett has managed to portray it in such a way that the problems, and solutions, are clearly visible, while revealing the details of a culture very alien and yet quite similar to our own.