Friday, February 11, 2011

How could I summarize chapter 3 of A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin?

This chapter, entitled "The School of Wizards", deals principally with Ged's arrival at Roke, his admittance into the school of wizardry, the beginning of his rivalry with Jasper and his friendship with Vetch.


Ged arrives at the Isle of Roke and eventually finds his way to the entrance of the school of wizardry. To enter the door, he has to utter his true name to the door and the doorkeeper which admits him into the school. ONce there he meets the Archmage Nemmerle, the Warder of Roke. The Archmage asks Ged to read the note that Ogion gave him to him, which says that Ogion believes Ged will become the greatest wizard of Gont. The Archmage accepts Ged into the school and Jasper shows Ged around. Jasper's mocking tone sparks off resentment in Ged, but he also meets Vetch, who befriends him. Jasper asks Ged to show them some magic, but he refuses, feeling he knows nothing to show off with, and feels that Jasper is shaming him. Ged begins his studies and works hard and does well. The conflict between Jasper and Ged escalates. In the winter, Ged goes with other students to a tower in the north of the island to Master Namer to learn the true names of objects. As he walks back he befriends an otak - a kind of rat-like animal - who stays with Ged. Back at the school, Jasper casts an illusion to please the Lady of O and her Master who are visiting, and is given praise. Seeing this, Ged is struck with bitter envy thinking he could do better.


Hope that helps! Key factors then to focus on are Ged's pride and how his conflict with Jasper really exacerbates this failing. Also, Ged's natural skill at wizardry, his otak and his friendship with Vetch. Hope it helps and good luck!

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