A Wizard of Earthsea | Topics for Discussion & Projects

A Wizard of Earthsea Suggested Essay Topics

Discuss pride. Is it Ged's pride that causes all his problems? Is the shadow a part of Ged's pride? Is pride always a bad thing? Are there times when pride is appropriate?

Discuss names. Names are important to a lot of cultures. Name one culture that treats names in a similar fashion to this novel. Why is it important to Ged that he not reveal his name to anyone? Why does Vetch tell Ged his real name? Why does the dragon agree to obey Ged after Ged says its name? Why does the shadow stating Ged's name take his powers away?

Explain the importance of Hoeg. What is Hoeg? Is he a pet or a friend? Why does Ged keep the hoeg? Does the fact that the animal stays with Ged say anything about Ged's capabilities? Does the hoeg really save Ged's life the day after Pechvarry's child dies?

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