Themes/Symbolism
The Martyr:
When Kelsier sacrifices himself at the end of the book while fighting the Lord Ruler, and subsequently seems to come back from the dead by having a kandra impersonate him, it acts as a catalyst to spur the people into action against the system.
The Wise Mentor:
Kelsier also acts as a sort of guide for Vin, giving her the benefit of his years of experiences and practical knowledge.
The destined hero:
It is constantly foreshadowed that Vin will have a bigger role to play in the defeat of the Lord Ruler than she realizes, from her ability to pierce copperclouds to the fact that her allomancy is so extremely powerful in the first place.
