Table of contents:

Dan Brown is known for utilizing a specific formula in his writing that has become his signature style. This formula incorporates several key elements that contribute to the fast-paced and suspenseful nature of his novels.

1. Central mystery:

First and foremost, Brown’s formula includes a gripping and high-stakes premise or central mystery.

a) In “Digital Fortress,” the premise centers around a groundbreaking encryption algorithm created by Ensai Tankadothat, if released, could cripple the intelligence community.

b) In “Deception Point,” the central mystery revolves around the discovery of an extraordinary meteorite that contains evidence of extraterrestrial life.

c) In “The Da Vinci Code” the central mystery revolves around a hidden secret that could potentially shake the foundations of Christianity. It involves the search for the Holy Grail and the truth about the nature of Jesus Christ.

d) In “Angels & Demons” the premise revolves around a threat to the Vatican and the potential destruction of the Catholic Church by a secret society known as the Illuminati.

e) In “The Lost Symbol” the central mystery centers around the whereabouts of a mythical Masonic pyramid that holds a powerful secret.

f) In “Inferno” the premise involves the location of the virus that can destroy the human population.

g) In “Origin”: The central mystery revolves around a scientist’s discovery that could answer humanity’s most profound questions about its origin and future.

2. Main protagonist supported by a secondary protagonist:

The second key formula of Dan Brown’s writing is a protagonist supported by a secondary protagonist, essentially one male and one female. Robert Langdon is the male protagonist in five of Dan Brown’s novels supported by Vittoria Vetra in “Angels and Demons”, Sophie Neveu in “The Da Vinci Code”, Katherine Solomon in “The Lost Symbol”, Sienna Brooks in “Inferno” and Ambra Vidal  in “Origin”.

In other two non-Langdon novels, the main protagonist is female, supported by male protagonist. In “Digital Fortress” the main character is Susan Fletcher supported by David Becker and in “Deception Point” the main character is Rachel Sexton supported by Michael Tolland.

In Brown’s novels, the secondary protagonist plays a significant role in the story. Here are some details about this dynamic:

Complementary Skills: The secondary protagonist typically possesses skills or expertise that complement those of the main character. They bring a different perspective, knowledge, or set of abilities that aid in deciphering clues, solving puzzles, or navigating challenging situations.

Emotional Support: The secondary protagonist serves as a source of emotional support for the main character. They provide encouragement, friendship, and sometimes act as a confidant or sounding board for the protagonist’s thoughts and ideas.

Dialogue and Banter: The interactions between the main protagonist and the secondary protagonist often involve engaging dialogue and banter. This adds depth to their relationship and showcases their unique personalities and perspectives.

Committed Partnership: The secondary protagonist is typically deeply committed to the main character’s mission or cause. They share a common goal and work together as a team, facing obstacles and danger alongside the protagonist.

Character Development: The secondary protagonist often undergoes their own character development throughout the story. They may have their own personal growth arcs, challenges, or secrets that contribute to the overall narrative.

Dynamic Relationship: The relationship between the main protagonist and the secondary protagonist is dynamic and evolves over the course of the story. They may start as strangers or have a pre-existing connection, but their bond strengthens as they face the challenges together.

Collaborative Problem-Solving: The main protagonist and the secondary protagonist often engage in collaborative problem-solving. They pool their knowledge, skills, and resources to overcome obstacles, uncover secrets, and decipher complex puzzles.

Overall, we can say that the inclusion of a secondary protagonist enhances the protagonist’s journey, adds depth to the story, and allows for compelling character dynamics. Their presence enriches the narrative and contributes to the overall excitement and intrigue of Dan Brown’s novels.

3. Secret Societies:

Dan Brown’s novels often feature hidden and secret societies that play crucial roles in the story. Here are some examples of such societies from his works:

The Illuminati: In “Angels & Demons,” the Illuminati is a secret society that seeks revenge against the Catholic Church. They are known for their scientific knowledge and use of symbols, and their actions create a sense of mystery and intrigue throughout the book.

The Priory of Sion: The Priory of Sion is a secret society featured in “The Da Vinci Code.” It is believed to be a centuries-old organization that guards the Holy Grail and holds hidden knowledge about the true nature of Jesus.

The Freemasons: The Freemasons are a real-world secret society that plays a significant role in “The Lost Symbol.” In the novel, they are portrayed as keepers of ancient wisdom and symbols, with a history of influencing the course of events.

Opus Dei: In the novel “The Da Vinci Code”, Opus Dei is depicted as a controversial and secret Catholic organisation. It is a profoundly devout Catholic sect that has recently been the subject of controversy due to reports of brainwashing, coercion, and a potentially lethal practise known as corporal mortification.

The Consortium: The Consortium is a secretive and powerful organization involved in covert operations and manipulating political events. It operates behind the scenes and is driven by its own agenda, adding suspense and intrigue to the plot. These hidden and secret societies are often shrouded in mystery, possess esoteric knowledge, and have their own agendas, making them integral to the plots of Dan Brown’s novels. They add a sense of intrigue, suspense, and historical depth to the narratives, creating a captivating reading experience.

4. Government Organizations:

Dan Brown often weaves government organizations into the fabric of his novels, adding an element of political intrigue and power dynamics to the stories. Here are some examples of government organizations featured in his books:

Central Intelligence Agency (CIA): The CIA appears in Dan Brown’s novel “The Lost Symbol”. The agency’s involvement adds a layer of espionage and intelligence operations to the plots.

The Office of Security (OS):  The Office of Security is portrayed as a covert agency in Dan Brown’s novel “The Lost Symbol,” in charge of assuring the security and protection of key dignitaries and high-ranking government officials. The Office of Security (OS), keeps an eye on every CIA employee for improper conduct, money laundering, sale of secrets, stealing of classified technologies, usage of illegal torture methods, etc.

National Security Agency (NSA): In “Digital Fortress,” the NSA plays a significant role as the protagonist battles against the agency’s code-breaking capabilities and secretive operations.

National Reconnaissance Office (NRO): The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) creates, buys, launches, and manages cutting-edge space-based reconnaissance and surveillance systems that gather and disseminate intelligence to strengthen U.S. security. This organization plays a vital role in “Deception Point”.

Delta Force team: Delta Force is a distinguished tier one special mission unit within the U.S. military, entrusted with executing the most intricate, covert, and perilous missions under the directives of the President of the United States and the Secretary of Defense. This elite force operates with absolute impunity, shielded from legal repercussions. The majority of Delta’s assignments involve classified operations, further highlighting their utmost secrecy and exclusivity. In “Deception Point” This Govt. Organization has a key role in the story.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): It is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for the country’s civilian space program and for aeronautics and aerospace research. The whole story of “Deception Point” revolves around NASA.

World Health Organisation (WHO): The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established in 1948, the WHO’s primary objective is to promote the attainment of the highest possible level of health for all people.In “Inferno” WHO, Director, Dr. Senskey has a key role in the story.

European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) : It is an agency of the European Union (EU) whose mission is to strengthen Europe’s defences against infectious diseases It covers a wide spectrum of activities, such as: surveillance, epidemic intelligence, response, scientific advice, microbiology, preparedness, public health training, international relations, health communication etc. In “Inferno” through out the whole story, The SRS team (Surveillance and Response Support Unit) of ECDC is chasing Langdon and Siena.

The Central Directorate of the Judicial Police (DCPJ): In “The Da vinci Code” there is DCPJ which has national and territorial responsibility for investigating and fighting serious crime.

Swiss Guard: They feature prominently in “Angels & Demons,” where their involvement adds a unique dimension to the plot.This is a highly trained security force responsible for protecting the Vatican City and the Pope.

The Guardia Real (GR): In “Origin,” The Guardia Real, also known as the Spanish Royal Guard is portrayed as a government organization responsible for maintaining order and protecting high-profile figures in Spain, including the royal family.

These government organizations bring elements of power, secrecy, and conflict to the narratives, often serving as both allies and adversaries to the protagonists as they navigate the intricate plots of Dan Brown’s novels.

5. Historical Facts:

Dan Brown’s novels are renowned for their incorporation of historical facts and details, which add depth and authenticity to the stories. Here are some examples of historical facts and details found in different novels by Dan Brown:

“The Da Vinci Code”: This novel delves into the history of art, religion, and secret societies. It explores the concept of the Holy Grail and presents theories surrounding the life of Jesus Christ. Historical details include the symbolism in Leonardo da Vinci’s artwork, the history of the Knights Templar, and the significance of ancient symbols like the pentacle and the Fibonacci sequence.

“Angels & Demons”: The novel takes readers on a thrilling journey through the history of the Illuminati, a secret society believed to have been active during the Renaissance period. It explores the architecture and symbolism of Rome, including famous landmarks like the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Pantheon. Historical details about the Illuminati’s involvement with science, art, and religion are woven into the story.

“The Lost Symbol”: This novel uncovers the history and secrets of Freemasonry, a fraternal organization with a rich historical background. It explores symbols, rituals, and traditions associated with Freemasonry, as well as the influence of prominent historical figures like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.

“Inferno”: Drawing inspiration from Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy,” the novel explores the history, art, and literature of Florence, Italy. Historical details include references to Dante’s works, famous Renaissance figures such as Botticelli and Machiavelli, and the architectural marvels of Florence, like the Palazzo Vecchio and the Baptistry.

“Origin”: This novel delves into the intersection of science and religion, touching on historical events and figures such as Darwin’s theory of evolution, the conflicts between religion and science, and the works of influential philosophers and scientists like Friedrich Nietzsche and Richard Dawkins.

These are just a few examples of how Dan Brown incorporates historical facts and details into his novels, providing readers with a fascinating blend of fiction and reality. His meticulous research and attention to historical accuracy contribute to the immersive and educational experience of his stories.

6. Art and culture:

Dan Brown’s novels are known for their meticulous attention to art and culture, weaving in details that enhance the narrative and provide a rich backdrop for the story. Here are some examples of art and culture details found in Dan Brown’s novels:

“The Da Vinci Code”: This novel delves deeply into the art and symbolism of Leonardo da Vinci. It explores iconic works such as “The Last Supper” and “Mona Lisa,” highlighting their hidden meanings and enigmatic elements.

“Angels & Demons”: The novel explores the architecture and art of Rome, with a particular emphasis on the Vatican and its renowned collection of masterpieces. Brown describes the intricate details of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and other significant locations, as well as the historical and cultural importance of sculptures and paintings by artists like Bernini and Raphael.

“The Lost Symbol”: This novel incorporates various symbols and artistic elements related to Freemasonry. It explores the architecture of Washington, D.C., including the symbolism embedded in famous landmarks such as the Washington Monument and the Capitol. The novel also delves into the mystical properties of ancient symbols and their connection to the hidden mysteries of the past.

“Inferno”: The novel highlights the works of Dante Alighieri, Botticelli, and other renowned artists. The art and cultural details provide a backdrop to the story and enhance the protagonist’s quest for hidden clues and messages.

In “Origin”: This novel features art and cultural references related to modern and contemporary art as well as the architectural land marks of Antoni Gaudi.

These examples demonstrate how Dan Brown integrates art and cultural details into his novels, enriching the reading experience with vivid descriptions, historical context, and intriguing connections between art and history.

7. Symbols:

Symbols play a significant role in Dan Brown’s novels, often serving as clues or keys to unraveling mysteries. Some common symbols found in his novels include:

The Rose: In “The Da Vinci Code,” the rose symbolizes the Holy Grail and the divine feminine.

The Illuminati Diamond: In “Angels & Demons,” the Illuminati diamond represents the four elements and is used as a sign of the Illuminati’s presence.

The Fibonacci Sequence: In “The Da Vinci Code,” the Fibonacci sequence, a mathematical pattern, is used to reveal hidden messages and connections.

The Masonic Square and Compass: In “The Lost Symbol,” the Masonic square and compass symbolize the search for enlightenment and the hidden mysteries of the Masonic order.

The Vitruvian Man: Featured in “The Da Vinci Code,” the Vitruvian Man by Leonardo da Vinci represents the harmonious relationship between man and the universe.

The Octagon: In “Inferno,” this symbol is used. In Christianity, the number eight represented rebirth and re- creation. The octagon served as a visual reminder of the six days of God’s creation of heaven and earth, the one day of Sabbath, and the eighth day, upon which Christians were “reborn” or “re-created” through baptism. Octagons had become a common shape for baptistries around the world.

These are just a few examples of the symbols that appear in Dan Brown’s novels. Symbols are used to add depth, intrigue, and layers of meaning to the stories, engaging readers in deciphering their significance within the plot.