The Rule of Names - The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K Le Guin

Introduction

"The Rule of Names" is a short story by the renowned American author Ursula K. Le Guin, first published in the April 1964 issue of Fantastic and later reprinted in various collections, including The Wind’s Twelve Quarters[5].

Ursula K. Le Guin, a pivotal figure in the fantasy genre, is known for her thoughtful and inventive approach to storytelling. "The Rule of Names" is one of her early works that laid the groundwork for the expansive and richly detailed world of Earthsea, a series that would go on to include novels like A Wizard of Earthsea, The Tombs of Atuan, and The Farthest Shore[4].

This story stands out within its genre for its unique exploration of the power of names and the subversion of traditional fantasy tropes. Unlike other fantasy stories where heroes typically vanquish dragons, "The Rule of Names" presents a narrative where the lines between hero and dragon are blurred, and the conventional plot is turned on its head.

Plot Summary

The story is set on Sattins Island, one of the many islands in the Earthsea archipelago. The island is home to a rustic village and a resident wizard named Mr. Underhill, who lives in a cave under a hill. Mr. Underhill is a fat, shy, and largely incompetent wizard who uses simple magic to help the villagers with minor medical and agricultural issues ^[5][2].

The narrative takes a turn with the arrival of a handsome stranger named Blackbeard, who is actually a powerful magician from the distant Archipelago. Blackbeard is on a mission to recover his family’s treasure, which was stolen by a dragon. He believes that Mr. Underhill is the wizard who defeated the dragon and made off with the treasure.

Blackbeard’s confrontation with Mr. Underhill leads to a battle where both characters shapeshift into different forms. Mr. Underhill transforms into a massive dragon, revealing that his true name is Yevaud and that he is indeed the dragon who stole the treasure. Blackbeard, knowing Yevaud’s true name, attempts to control him but ultimately meets his demise at the hands of the dragon ^[2][5].

Following the battle, Birt, a village lad who guided Blackbeard, and Palani, the village schoolmistress, flee the island. Yevaud, now embracing his true form as a dragon, prepares to devour the villagers of Sattins Island. This ending sets a dark and ominous tone, highlighting the dangers of meddling with forces beyond one’s control ^[2][5].

Themes and Symbolism

"The Rule of Names" is deeply imbued with several key themes that are central to the Earthsea series. One of the most prominent themes is the power of names and the mystical properties they hold. In the world of Earthsea, knowing someone’s true name gives one power over them, making the revelation of true names a closely guarded secret ^[1][5].

The story also explores the idea that appearances can be deceiving. Mr. Underhill, who appears as a harmless and incompetent wizard, is revealed to be a powerful dragon. This subversion of expectations challenges the traditional fantasy narrative where heroes and villains are clearly defined ^[1][2].

Another significant theme is the concept of identity and form. Yevaud’s transformation into a dragon highlights the fluidity between human and dragon forms, a theme that is further developed in later Earthsea novels. This blurring of lines between species underscores the complexity of identity and the nature of being ^[2][5].

Cultural Impact

"The Rule of Names" has had a significant cultural impact since its publication. It was one of the early stories that established Ursula K. Le Guin as a major voice in fantasy literature, known for her innovative and thoughtful storytelling.

The story’s influence can be seen in its contribution to the broader Earthsea series, which has been widely acclaimed for its depth and richness. The Earthsea Cycle has inspired numerous other authors and works in the fantasy genre, challenging traditional tropes and encouraging more nuanced and complex storytelling %[4].

The concept of true names and their power has become a staple in fantasy literature, influencing works such as J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series and other magical narratives. The idea that knowing someone’s true name can grant control over them has been a recurring theme in many subsequent fantasy stories and series.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, "The Rule of Names" was well-received by critics for its unique take on fantasy storytelling. Susan Wood noted that Ursula K. Le Guin was already an accomplished writer at the time, expressing valuable insights with grace and humor ^[5].

Over the years, the story has continued to receive praise for its thematic depth and its role in establishing the Earthsea series. Critics have appreciated Le Guin’s skill in subverting common fantasy tropes and her exploration of complex themes such as identity, power, and the nature of names.

However, some critics have noted that the story’s dark ending and the lack of a traditional hero-villain dichotomy might be unsettling for some readers. Despite this, the story remains a significant work in the fantasy genre, celebrated for its originality and depth.

Legacy

"The Rule of Names" has left an enduring legacy in the world of fantasy literature. It is one of the foundational stories of the Earthsea Cycle, a series that has inspired generations of readers and writers.

Ursula K. Le Guin’s work on this story and others in the Earthsea series has influenced a wide range of authors, from George R.R. Martin to Neil Gaiman. The concept of true names and the power they hold has become a part of the fantasy lexicon, appearing in various forms across different works.

The story’s themes of identity, power, and the complexity of human (and non-human) nature continue to resonate with readers today. As a work that challenges traditional fantasy narratives, "The Rule of Names" remains a vital part of the genre’s evolution and a testament to Ursula K. Le Guin’s innovative storytelling.