# The Zhar-Ptitza Bird — Figures of Earth character guide

> The Zhar-Ptitza Bird in Figures of Earth by James Branch Cabell.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Zhar-Ptitza

**First appearance:** 0019-xi-magic-of-the-apsarasas

## Who they are

A magical firebird that Manuel must capture as part of a quest.

## In the story

### [VII: The Crown of Wisdom](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/figures_of_earth_se/chapters/vii-the-crown-of-wisdom)

Mentioned as the source of the legendary feather that confers wisdom, though the feather sold is actually from a goose.

### [XI: Magic of the Apsarasas](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/figures_of_earth_se/chapters/xi-magic-of-the-apsarasas)

The oldest and wisest bird, who advises Manuel to consult King Helmas and dismisses human ambitions.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/figures_of_earth_se/characters/the_zhar_ptitza_bird
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/figures_of_earth_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/figures_of_earth_se/characters