The Tombs of Atuan

Style and Technique

Ursula Le Guin's novel «The Tombs of Atuan» is distinguished by its unique style, which combines elements of fantasy and philosophical prose. The language of the work is rich and expressive, allowing the reader to immerse themselves deeply in the atmosphere of the Earthsea world. Le Guin uses symbolism and metaphors to convey complex ideas and themes such as freedom, identity, and power. The narrative structure is linear but includes elements of flashbacks and reflections, adding depth to the characters and their inner world. The author masterfully creates tension and intrigue, gradually revealing the mysteries and secrets of the Tombs to the reader. Literary devices such as contrast and parallelism are used to highlight the changes in the main character Tenar and her journey to self-discovery. Overall, Le Guin's style and technique in this novel contribute to creating a rich and multi-layered narrative that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.