Theme Of Acceptance In A Wizard Of Earthsea

Usually, in literature, authors will utilize the exploration of power and pride, to later traverse the idea of knowledge and patience. Typically, an eager chase of power without any general knowledge or patience would eventually lead to a frightful demise. Ursula K. Le Guin uses foreshadowing, archetypes, and internal conflict to convey the theme of acceptance in, “A Wizard of Earthsea”.

Initially, foreshadowing in “A Wizard of Earthsea”, was made apparent by the omniscient third-person point of view. In the novel, Jasper, a side character, foretells that “Even foolery is dangerous, in the hands of a fool.” (52, Ursula K. Le Guin). This statement would be later applied in the story of the main character, Ged, who would eventually release a treacherous shadow into the land of Earthsea. The initial summoning of the shadow would foreshadow that Ged would go through a series of hardships and transformations, which would end up creating acceptance in Ged’s life. Another instance of foreshadowing in

The “shadow” in the novel, demonstrates the “creature of nightmares” archetype. As Ged sought power, he fortuitously,” …[lit] a candle [that] [cast] a shadow”. (51, Ursula K. Le Guin). This quote demonstrates the archetype of the “creature of nightmares”, by the main character’s consequential actions, as these actions further led Ged to acceptance of his own self. Another archetype further used in the novel is the “hermit”. The “hermit” archetype is portrayed by Ogiod, Ged’s master. In the novel, Ogiod lectures Ged that to seek power would lead to many dangers and that Ged, “... must know the price that is to pay”(27, Ursula, K. Le Guin). This quote, in particular, displays the “hermit” archetype, showing Ogiod’s wisdom and experience. As Ged progressed, through the story and reached a mental roadblock, without the teachings of Ogiod, Ged wouldn’t be able to find acceptance in