What Is a Harper in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves?

Edgin looking up
Credit: Paramount Pictures


Edgin looking up
Credit: Paramount Pictures

In Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, the Harpers are mentioned several times. The bard Edgin shares that he used to be a Harper, and during their quest, he and his team visit a Harper sanctuary. So, what exactly is a Harper in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves?

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Who Are the Harpers in the Dungeons & Dragons Movie?

Edgin smiling and Zia looking at him
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Credit: Paramount Pictures

The Harpers, also known as “Those Who Harp” are a semi-secret organization dedicated to doing good. They promote balance and harmony in the realms and defend the innocent from the forces of evil.

In the Dungeons & Dragons movie, Edgin describes the Harpers as a network of spies who swear an oath to fight tyranny, defend the oppressed, and ask nothing in return.

Although they are an organization, they are anything but organized. Some work alone, while others work in small groups. So, a Harper can have different jobs or priorities but have shared goals.

In Edgin’s case, he eavesdrops on mercenaries, stops bandits in their tracks, and helps bring Thayan Red Wizards to justice.

The Harpers’ lack of formal organization is what makes them a semi-secret society.

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The Harper Code in Dungeons & Dragons Explained

Edgin swearing an oath
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Credit: Paramount Pictures

Harpers stick to their Code, which contains statements on the rules they must follow. The Harper Code states that Harpers must work against wickedness whenever they find it, but they must also be mindful of the consequences of their actions.

The Code also states that they must work to maintain freedom, peace, and balance in the realms and that pride shouldn’t rule their actions. Harpers are also expected not to ask anything in return for their work.

The Harpers are an influential faction, and they have been involved in many world-changing events. Their Code has influenced the shaping of laws in different cities.

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How Does One Become a Harper in Dungeons & Dragons?

Edgin looking at the Harper Code
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Credit: Paramount Pictures

Anyone can become a Harper as the group accepts individuals from all walks of life. The Harpers accept individuals regardless of race, gender, or past, so long as they swear on the Harper Code.

But while the group isn’t strict on who can be a Harper, things are different when it comes to the process of accepting members. Recruits are chosen by the group, with the potential Harper needing sponsorship by a member of good standing and approval of the High Harpers.

A recruit will be given a mission, with silent supervision by a senior Harper. Once successful, the recruit will swear their oath.

A member can quit the organization, but they will always be part of the Harpers because of their oath. As the paladin Xenk tells Edgin in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, “You may have foresworn your oath, but your oath hasn’t foresworn you.”

Harpers still watch over ex-members. Former members can also return to the organization by undertaking an important quest.

It’s clear that Harpers play significant roles in D&D, so it would be nice to see more of them in a Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves sequel.

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