A Wizard of Earthsea

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“Mapping the Hero’s Journey”

In this activity, students will analyze Ged’s journey through the lens of the monomyth and compare this iteration to another iteration of their choice.

In A Wizard of Earthsea, Le Guin blends many genres and familiar story structures. For example, she includes the monomyth but subverts elements to question traditional concepts of power and heroism, inviting reflection on what the genres really offer. For this activity, you will map Ged’s journey and the journey of another hero of your choice. Then, create an infographic that compares the two iterations of the monomyth. Which story better illustrates the hero’s journey? As you contemplate this question, complete the following steps:

• Make a brief list of heroes from all media forms you enjoy, including films, video games, and graphic novels. Which character do you like best, and which journey can you easily map on your own?
• Using the stages of the monomyth as a guide, map out the parts of Ged’s journey that fit each stage and then map out the journey of your chosen hero.
• Consider your criteria for determining which story is the better iteration. Which story most obviously explores each stage? Which archetypes are included, and what does the journey reveal about universal ideas such as heroism or power?
• Determine how your finished product will convey the journey of each character while also comparing them and drawing a clear judgment.
• Create your infographic using a medium approved by your teacher, whether digital, physical, or using mixed media.

Present your work to the class and explain your choices carefully. Infographics may be posted for public display.

Teaching Suggestion: Students may benefit from a brief discussion of possible hero stories to explore prior to beginning the activity. While graphic organizers may help students identify each stage of the hero’s journey, you might choose to model the mapping of Ged’s journey through the monomyth first while students take notes. Alternatively, you could practice mapping Ged’s journey with the whole class or guide them in small groups before students map their chosen stories individually.