“The strength of fantasy is the strength of the Self.” – Ursula K. Le Guin, Do-it-Yourself-Cosmology

In 1948, Robert Graves argued that ancient civilizations worshipped what he called the Triple Goddess. Her archetype likened the phases of the moon and seasons of the year to the stages of womanhood. Aspects of the Triple Goddess echoed throughout various ancient mythologies. Is the same true of modern fantasy?

This thought-provoking essay considers Ursula K. Le Guin’s celebrated Earthsea novels as an example of the Triple Goddess archetype. Exploring Tenar’s journey of self-awareness and self-discovery across the series, Susan Dillon proposes that Tenar is the Triple Goddess of Earthsea.

A fascinating read for any fan of Le Guin’s work!