A Wizard of Earthsea Chapter Summary & Analysis - Chapter 4, The Loosing of the Shadow Summary

Chapter 4, The Loosing of the Shadow Summary

In the spring, Vetch and Jasper become sorcerers and move on to study with the Master Patterner, so Ged does not get to see them very much. Ged is fifteen now, still studying lesser spells rather than the High Arts that he so desperately wants to learn. His skills have become fodder for gossip in the school and the otak that has become his friend is often gossiped about as well. Ged is still trying to get the Masters to teach him more than they are allowed and finally convinces the Master Changer to do so.

During the summer, there are two holidays, one right after the other, so the school allows the children to celebrate both nights. On one of these nights, Ged is in a courtyard with Vetch and some other boys, playing games with their magic spells and enjoying each other's company. Jasper comes into the courtyard...
(read more)