Introduction
"The Farthest Shore" is a fantasy novel written by Ursula K. Le Guin, released in 1972 as the third book in her Earthsea series. This unique follows the story of Archmage Ged, who starts a quest to save the world of Earthsea from a fantastic threat that threatens to throw the world into mayhem. Accompanied by a young prince named Arren, the two heroes should cruise to the farthest uncharted coasts and face a callous enemy.
The Beginning: A Troubled World
As the unique begins, the world of Earthsea remains in chaos. Magic is decreasing, and mages are losing their power. When the Archmage Ged becomes aware of these difficulties, he knows that he should find the source of this disruption and conserve his world. He sets out on a journey throughout the vast oceans of Earthsea, accompanied by Arren, a young prince from the island of Enlad who has actually been sent to Ged for guidance and defense.
The Journey: Facing Storms and Shadows
Ged and Arren set sail from Roke Island, heading west into uncharted waters. Along the way, they come across several threats, including strong storms and tempests, before coming to an island where they discover the bones of a number of dragons. It ends up being clear that somebody has been oppressing dragons and turning them against one another - a grievous crime in Earthsea.
They also make their method to the Kargish lands, where magic is not known or practiced. Ged and Arren face distrust and hostility from the residents, however they handle to win over the Kargish lord with their sincerity and genuineness. Upon leaving, they receive a present of a black sword called 'Orm Embar,' a powerful weapon created by dragons.
Coming Closer: The Farthest Shore
The Archmage Ged and Prince Arren continue to cruise farther west until they finally reach the uncharted lands of Selidor. Here they discover The Farthest Shore, a location where the dead might get in the afterlife. The Farthest Shore is also the burrow of the terrifying dragon Orm Embar, who is gradually being corrupted by the same dark power that is affecting the rest of Earthsea.
The Villain: Chasing Shadows
As the novel progresses, we learn that the source of the world's problems is a man called Cob. Once a magician who sought immortality, Cob has given that become a servant of darkness, obsessed with power. He has actually found a way of taking individuals's souls, lengthening his own life, and casting a shadow of worry and discontent throughout the world. Ged and Arren realize that Cob needs to be stopped before he can do anymore damage.
The Climax: The Siege of the Dry Land
The ending of the novel sees Archmage Ged, Prince Arren, and the dragon Orm Embar engage in an impressive fight versus Cob and his forces on the Farthest Shore. Ged is required to confront his own death: to conserve Earthsea, he needs to relinquish his powers and permit his own body and soul to be damaged. In doing so, he also ensures the destruction of Cob.
Conclusion: A New Beginning
The Farthest Shore ends with a bittersweet triumph. Ged's sacrifice has actually guaranteed that the darkness is defeated, and magic returns to the world, but Ged himself is no longer the Archmage. He has become a simple male, removed of his magical capabilities. Arren, now a hero in his own right, goes on to end up being King Lebannen of Enlad, restoring peace and stability to Earthsea. The novel explores styles of sacrifice, morality, and the cyclical nature of life and death, providing a compelling tale of experience and heroism in a wonderful world.
The Farthest Shore
A former Archmage and his young prince companion search for the cause of a deadly magic-spreading sickness in the Earthsea islands.
Author: Ursula K. Le Guin
Ursula K. Le Guin, celebrated American writer known for her deeply insightful stories in genres like fantasy & science fiction. Discover her quotes, journey, and awards.
More about Ursula K. Le Guin