The Tombs of Atuan: A Deep Dive into Ursula K. Le Guin’s Earthsea Cycle

Introduction

The Tombs of Atuan, the second book in Ursula K. Le Guin’s esteemed Earthsea Cycle, is a fantasy novel that has captivated readers with its richly detailed world, complex characters, and profound themes. First published in the Winter 1970 issue of Worlds of Fantasy and later as a book by Atheneum Books in 1971, The Tombs of Atuan was a Newbery Honor Book in 1972, recognizing its significant contribution to children’s literature.

Ursula K. Le Guin, the author, is renowned for her imaginative and thought-provoking works, and The Tombs of Atuan is no exception. Unlike many fantasy novels of its time, this book stands out for its choice of a female protagonist and its exploration of themes such as gender, power, and faith within a patriarchal society. The novel’s setting, the fictional world of Earthsea, is influenced by Le Guin’s interests in anthropology, Taoism, and various mythologies, including Native American legends and Norse mythology ^[1][4].

Plot Summary

The story of The Tombs of Atuan revolves around Tenar, a young girl born in the Kargish empire, who is taken from her family at the age of five to become the high priestess of the Tombs of Atuan. She is renamed Arha, meaning "the eaten one," and is consecrated to the service of the "Nameless Ones," ancient and mysterious deities associated with darkness, ruin, and madness.

Arha’s life at the Tombs is marked by loneliness and isolation, with her only companions being the eunuch Manan and another priestess named Penthe. She is trained in the lore of the Tombs and the labyrinth beneath them, learning about the treasure hidden within and the attempts by wizards from the archipelago to steal it. Her world is disrupted by the arrival of Ged, the protagonist of A Wizard of Earthsea, who seeks to retrieve the half of a talisman buried in the treasury of the Tombs.

Arha traps Ged in the labyrinth but eventually decides to keep him alive, marking the beginning of her rebellion against her teachings and her growing questioning of her faith in the Nameless Ones. Through her interactions with Ged, Tenar learns more about the outside world and begins to develop a sense of self apart from her role as Arha. The novel culminates with Tenar and Ged escaping the Tombs, which are destroyed in an earthquake, and their journey to Havnor, where they are received in triumph ^[1][2][3].

Themes and Symbolism

The Tombs of Atuan is rich in themes and symbolism that add depth and complexity to its narrative. One of the central themes is the exploration of faith and its implications. The novel contrasts the older religion of the Nameless Ones with the newer religion dedicated to the deified ruler, the Godking, highlighting the tensions between traditional beliefs and the evolving societal structures ^[4].

The character of Tenar embodies the theme of identity and coming-of-age. Her journey from being the isolated and obedient Arha to embracing her true name and identity as Tenar is a powerful metaphor for self-discovery and growth. This transformation is also tied to her exploration of faith and her eventual rejection of the oppressive cult of the Nameless Ones ^[1][2].

The novel also delves into themes of gender and power, particularly within the context of a patriarchal society. Tenar’s role as a high priestess in a male-dominated world highlights the constraints and challenges faced by women in such societies. However, her rebellion and ultimate escape symbolize the potential for women to break free from these constraints and forge their own paths ^[1][5].

Symbolism plays a significant role in the narrative, with the labyrinth beneath the Tombs serving as a metaphor for the complexities and mysteries of life. The contrast between light and darkness is another symbolic element, with Ged’s arrival and his use of light symbolizing the illumination of truth and the dispelling of ignorance ^[3].

Cultural Impact

The Tombs of Atuan has had a significant cultural impact since its publication. The novel’s sensitive portrayal of cultural differences between the Kargish people and the rest of Earthsea has been praised for its anthropological insight. Le Guin’s depiction of Kargish culture, though criticized by some for its perceived critique of patriarchal societies, has been recognized as a nuanced exploration of societal structures and religious beliefs ^[1][4].

The novel’s influence can be seen in various forms of media. For example, the critical moment in which Tenar recalls her true name has been described as influencing works such as Hayao Miyazaki’s 2001 film Spirited Away ^[1].

Critical Reception

The Tombs of Atuan was well-received upon its release, with critics praising the character of Tenar, Le Guin’s writing, and the novel’s exploration of religious themes and ethical questions. The novel was awarded a Newbery Honor in 1972, further solidifying its reputation as a significant work in children’s literature ^[1].

However, the novel has also faced criticism, particularly regarding its treatment of gender. Some scholars have argued that while Le Guin created a strong female protagonist, the novel still operates within a male-dominated framework. This critique has led to ongoing discussions about the representation of women in fantasy literature and the evolution of feminist themes in Le Guin’s work ^[1][5].

Legacy

The Tombs of Atuan continues to be a highly regarded and influential work in the fantasy genre. Its exploration of complex themes such as identity, faith, and gender has made it a staple in many literary curricula and a favorite among readers of fantasy.

The novel’s impact on the Earthsea Cycle is also significant, as it provides a unique perspective on the world of Earthsea through the eyes of a female protagonist. This perspective complements the stories of other characters in the series, such as Ged and Arren, and enriches the overall tapestry of the Earthsea universe ^[1][2].

In conclusion, The Tombs of Atuan is a masterpiece of fantasy literature that continues to inspire writers, publishers, and readers. Its enduring relevance lies in its thoughtful exploration of universal themes and its contribution to the broader literary landscape.