A Wizard of Earthsea

Most of the characters in A Wizard of Earthsea are dark-skinned. Discuss the impact of this, especially in the context of a novel first published in 1968.

The ocean and the weather play a huge role in the lives of the people who live in Earthsea. Discuss the symbolism of the ocean, the weather, and other natural forces at various points in the novel.

Knowledge (or the lack thereof) is a major theme in this novel. Explore the various implications of this idea in any of the forms that it takes.

Ged comes from a very poor village, and this has an effect on the choices he makes and the ways he presents himself. Discuss the sociocultural implications of Ged’s class and how it affects him throughout the novel.

Ged is often shown to use both magical and practical skills on his journey through Earthsea. Analyze the importance of the inclusion of both magic and mundane labor, as exemplified in the various boats Ged travels on.

Various characters discuss different types or disciplines of magic throughout the novel, such as the magic of humans, the magic of dragons, and the ancient magic of the Terrenon. Discuss these different types of magic and power and what they imply, individually or as a whole.

Ged would not have been able to complete his quest without help from his friend, Vetch, or from his mentor, Ogion. What does A Wizard of Earthsea assert about the importance of relationships and other people as a whole?

The ocean, and therefore the boats the characters use to traverse the ocean, are integral to the story. Discuss the different boats Ged travels in over the course of the novel and analyze the significance of their origins, appearances, and names.