dæmons

In Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials," dæmons are external representations of a person's inner self, typically taking the form of an animal. They symbolize a person's character, emotions, and inner thoughts, serving as a constant companion and reflection of their true nature. Dæmons are unique to each individual, capable of changing form in childhood but settling into a specific form at maturity. They act as a window into one’s inner world, representing personal identity, feelings, and moral compass within the story’s universe.