Kossil in The Tombs of Atuan
Introduction
Kossil is a significant character in Ursula K. Le Guin’s novel The Tombs of Atuan, the second book in the Earthsea Cycle. She is a priestess of the God-king in the Kargish lands, a theocratic society that is distinct from the rest of the Earthsea archipelago. Kossil’s origins are rooted in the rigid and patriarchal culture of the Kargad empire, where she serves as a high-ranking priestess in the Tombs of Atuan.
Kossil’s defining traits include her ruthless ambition, her disdain for the young priestess Arha (later known as Tenar), and her cynical view of the Nameless Ones, the deities worshipped in the Kargish lands. Her role in the narrative is pivotal, as she represents the oppressive and corrupt aspects of the Kargish religious hierarchy.
Kossil’s character also connects to broader literary traditions by embodying the themes of power, corruption, and the struggle between tradition and individual freedom. Her portrayal reflects Le Guin’s critique of rigid societal structures and the dangers of unchecked power.
Role in the Story
Kossil’s storyline is deeply intertwined with that of Arha, the young priestess of the Tombs of Atuan. From the beginning, Kossil is depicted as Arha’s primary rival and adversary. She views the Tombs as a forgotten relic and sees Arha as a threat to her own power and influence within the Kargish religious hierarchy [1][3].
Kossil’s journey is marked by her relentless pursuit of power and her attempts to undermine Arha’s position. She is intensely hateful towards Arha and sees her as a naive and vulnerable target. When the wizard Ged is discovered in the undertomb, Kossil seizes the opportunity to use this situation to her advantage, forcing Arha to swear that she will sacrifice Ged to the Nameless Ones [1][5].
Kossil’s relationships with other characters are strained and manipulative. She has a particularly antagonistic relationship with Arha, whom she despises for her youth and perceived weakness. Her interactions with Manan, Arha’s eunuch servant, are also significant, as she uses her authority to manipulate him into digging a false grave, further complicating Arha’s situation [1][5].
The key events involving Kossil include her discovery of the false grave, her confrontation with Arha, and her ultimate failure to maintain her power over the Tombs. When Arha and Ged escape, Kossil’s plans are foiled, and her influence begins to wane [1][5].
Character Analysis
Kossil’s personality is characterized by her ruthlessness, cunning, and deep-seated ambition. She is a master manipulator who uses her position and influence to achieve her goals, often at the expense of others. Her motivations are driven by a desire for power and control, which she believes can only be maintained by eliminating any threats to her authority.
Despite her formidable presence, Kossil has significant flaws. Her cynicism and lack of genuine faith in the Nameless Ones undermine her own legitimacy and contribute to her downfall. Her inability to understand or empathize with Arha’s growing doubts and questions about the Kargish faith further isolates her and makes her more vulnerable to the changes that are occurring within the Tombs [1][3].
Kossil’s development throughout the novel is minimal, as her character serves more as a foil to Arha’s growth and transformation. However, her interactions with Arha and Ged reveal the depths of her corruption and the emptiness of her faith. This contrast highlights the themes of the novel, particularly the tension between blind faith and genuine belief, and the importance of questioning established traditions [1][5].
Themes and Symbolism
Kossil embodies several key themes in The Tombs of Atuan. She represents the corrupting influence of power and the dangers of blind faith. Her character symbolizes the rigid and oppressive aspects of the Kargish society, which is depicted as a theocracy that relies on fear and control rather than genuine spiritual belief.
Kossil’s role also underscores the theme of identity and the struggle for individual freedom. Her attempts to suppress Arha’s growing awareness and independence serve as a backdrop for Arha’s journey towards self-discovery and liberation from the constraints of her role as the high priestess of the Tombs [1][2].
The symbolic significance of Kossil extends to her relationship with the Nameless Ones. Her lack of faith in these deities and her use of them as a tool for maintaining power highlight the emptiness and superficiality of the Kargish religious practices. This critique reflects Le Guin’s broader commentary on the nature of faith, power, and the human condition [1][3].
Cultural Impact
Kossil’s character has had a significant cultural impact within the context of fantasy literature. She represents a type of villain that is both nuanced and compelling, embodying the complexities of power and corruption. Her portrayal has influenced the depiction of similar characters in other works of fantasy, highlighting the importance of complex and multidimensional antagonists.
In terms of fan reception, Kossil is often seen as a formidable and memorable antagonist. Her ruthless ambition and cunning nature make her a compelling figure, and her interactions with Arha and Ged are pivotal moments in the narrative. While there have been no direct adaptations of The Tombs of Atuan into other media, Kossil’s character would likely be a central figure in any such adaptation, given her significant role in the story [1][5].
Critical Reception
Critics have generally praised Kossil as a well-crafted and complex character. Her role in the narrative is seen as crucial to the development of Arha’s character and the exploration of the themes of power, faith, and identity. Reviewers have noted that Kossil’s character adds depth to the story, making the world of Earthsea more nuanced and realistic.
Some critics have also highlighted the feminist undertones in Kossil’s portrayal, particularly in her relationship with Arha. Kossil’s attempts to suppress Arha’s independence and individuality reflect broader societal issues related to gender and power. This aspect of her character has been praised for its thought-provoking commentary on these themes [2][5].
However, there have been some varying interpretations of Kossil’s role. Some readers view her as a one-dimensional villain, while others see her as a more complex figure whose actions are driven by a combination of ambition and desperation. These differing perspectives reflect the richness and complexity of Le Guin’s character development [1][3].
Legacy
Kossil’s enduring appeal lies in her complexity and the themes she embodies. As a character, she represents the darker aspects of human nature and the corrupting influence of power. Her legacy extends beyond the Earthsea Cycle, influencing the portrayal of antagonists in fantasy literature and highlighting the importance of nuanced character development.
In contemporary discussions, Kossil’s character remains relevant as a symbol of the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of questioning established traditions. Her portrayal continues to inspire authors and creators, serving as a model for complex and compelling antagonists.
Kossil’s impact on popular culture is also evident in her influence on the broader fantasy genre. Her character archetype—the ruthless, cunning, and power-hungry antagonist—has been replicated in various forms of media, from literature to film and television.
In conclusion, Kossil is a pivotal character in The Tombs of Atuan, embodying themes of power, corruption, and the struggle for individual freedom. Her significance within the narrative and her broader cultural impact make her a compelling and enduring figure in the world of fantasy literature.
