The Inner Conflicts In Ursula K. Le Guin's A Wizard Of Earthsea

Inner conflicts can subconsciously manifest themselves into physical hinderances, and create numerous obstacles in one's path. In Ursula K. Le Guin's A Wizard of Earthsea, Ged is an exceptionally talented young wizard who navigates his way through the mystical world he eagerly wishes to master. During a spat with a fellow student at a school for wizards, Ged unintentionally summons a shadow monster that proceeds to torment and harm him in several ways, both objectively and mentally. The danger presented by the shadow is one that Ged single-handedly creates, and must be defeated so that balance can be restored. However, before he can conquer the demon he has created, Ged must conquer the demons within himself. Ged's own inner turmoil creates insecurities, doubts, and fears within him that then lead to external conflicts. Ged's insecurities lead him to act irrationally on several occasions, and unnecessarily create dangerous situations for the sorcerer. He first encounters the shadow while serving as an apprentice to the great wizard Ogion. While trying to prove his prowess in sorcery to a young Serret, who belittles the boy

Le Guin's A Wizard of Earthsea offers an insightful look as to how insecurities can create unnecessary work for oneself. For the longest time, Ged sees the shadow as a destructive entity that wishes only to destroy him, and accordingly fears it. Feeling as though his abilities are severely lacking in the face of this adversary, Ged doubts himself, and most go on several formative quests before he can feel ready to fight his enemy. However, the shadow itself symbolizes Ged's own negative perception of himself. Both are unruly, unrestrained, and unbalanced. When he finally conquers the shadow, Ged does more than just restore balance within the world; he overcomes the ill feelings he holds for himself. While Ged is given the recognition and praise he always desired, the peace of mind and internal balance he achieves is a greater