I heartily and respectfully disagree with those who think that Tehanu is a longwinded and boring piece of sentimental crap. From my reading of the first three books, Ged always had complex feelings and fears that were evident to the reader. I don't see how Tehanu is very different, except that Tenar's complexities are thrown into the mix. It is true that Tehanu is a more emotional book than the other three, and maybe that's what makes it repellent. Perhaps it's just that older women out of their prime, stinky old witches, and quiet old men are not very appealing characters for a fantasy story. But this novel weaves together the fantasy of Therru's transformation and the reality of fear, pain, and disappointment. The events that made the strongest impressions on me were:
Ged's recovery from his loss of power.
Sooner or later, everyone loses something that means everything to them. In Ged's case, he realizes that he was a person before his wizardry, and his power does not define him as a human being. He finally understands that he was Sparrowhawk all along, and must pick up his life where he left off at 15. Tenar must also face the same predicament; she must return to being Tenar instead of Goha, a farmer's wife. This theme really had an impact on me, and probably will on other hypersensitive people.
Ged's recovery from his loss of power.
Sooner or later, everyone loses something that means everything to them. In Ged's case, he realizes that he was a person before his wizardry, and his power does not define him as a human being. He finally understands that he was Sparrowhawk all along, and must pick up his life where he left off at 15. Tenar must also face the same predicament; she must return to being Tenar instead of Goha, a farmer's wife. This theme really had an impact on me, and probably will on other hypersensitive people.
Tenar's fear for herself and Therru.
This books is not merely a 200 page diatribe on the evils of men and child abuse, but a perceptive look at the effects of abuse and the anger that women sometimes feel. I live alone in a cabin, which is a risky situation for young women. I have been "stalked" before and I share Tenar's anger at men who think that they can make me fear them. My favorite moment is when Tenar stands at the open door brandishing her knife, because in all her futility, she is not afraid of these men. I always thought guys were lucky because they don't have to worry about getting raped or abused, and maybe this novel will give them insight into the helplessness that some females feel.
Therru's transformation and her interest in Aunty Moss.
Therru, for all her seeming weakness, turned out to be the strongest character. She begins as a beaten, disfigured child; in the end she is still disfigured and shunned by most people, but she has an inner strength that allows her to save Ged and Tenar and overcome evildoers. I find it enchanting that someone so berated and rejected has an inner power so strong. Aunty Moss is another character that teaches an important lesson. Just because someone is unhygienic/disgusting/toothless does not mean they are not kind people. Everyone deserves respect, not just pretty people.
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