YMMV / Under the Oak Tree

• Alternative Character Interpretation: Riftan's POV introduces many.
  • Is Riftan truly in love with Maxi, or has he just latched onto the concept of her? His affection for her began in childhood not due to any significant interactions but simply because she was there. If his life hadn't been so unpleasant it's unlikely he would have noticed her at all, much less develop a lifelong obsession. Furthermore, he is deeply uncomfortable with Maxi's interest in learning magic and actively despises her attempts to perform her duties as the Lady of Anatol. If all he ever liked about her was that she was a refreshing presence during his difficult childhood and none of her choices as an adult, it can be argued that the version of her he is in love with doesn't exist.
  • Riftan's more unhealthy behaviors regarding sex and boundaries are arguably the result of childhood sexual abuse. There are many references to women trying to seduce or force themselves on Riftan despite his adamant refusal, the first example shown when he was only sixteen. While his size and strength made it easy to physically defend himself, the timeline still implies that adults were sexually harassing him as young as fourteen years old. It's mentioned that many of their attempts involved removing their clothing or sneaking into his bed without his consent, even if he was never actually assaulted Riftan was likely adversely affected by their behavior.
  • Many of the character traits Riftan showcases that are normally found in the romance genre are given a darker lens when you consider them symptoms of mental illness. His possessiveness, explosive anger, and high libido are severe enough that they cross the boundary into dysfunction. Even his prowess on the battlefield is shown to be less a product of bravery and more a self-destructive disregard for his own safety. And when considering that his mother is implied to exhibit the same symptoms, it introduces the possibility that his condition was inherited from her.
• Ensemble Dark Horse: Take your pick.
  • Ruth is loved for his sassy tongue, boyish good looks in the comic, hilariously manipulative manner, and being a genuine friend to Max under his crusty exterior.
  • Sir Hebaron, big strong ginger-haired Papa Bear that he is, is probably the fan-favorite of Riftan's knights, and gets much fangirling whenever he appears.