The Rivalry and Duel with Jasper

The escalating conflict between Ged and Jasper that led to the disastrous summoning.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

First Meeting

The Polite Insult The Greeting Jasper, assigned to guide Ged, was excessively polite, which Ged interpreted as mockery. Ged's sullen response set the tone for their relationship. The Cloak of the School Jasper took Ged to get a grey cloak, saying “Now you are one of us.” Ged replied, “Do clothes make the mage?” This early exchange revealed their mutual disdain.

The Challenge on Roke Knoll

The Test of Skill Jasper's Display Jasper and Vetch showed off illusions. Ged, humiliated, claimed he did not play games. Jasper mocked him, asking if he played for money. Ged was left sullen. The Seeds of Rivalry This incident hardened Ged's resolve to prove himself superior. He began to see Jasper as a rival who must be defeated.

The Festival Night Duel

The Open Challenge The Words of Hate During the festival, Jasper taunted Ged, calling him “Sparrowhawk that can't fly.” Ged challenged him to a test of power. Jasper suggested summoning a spirit from the dead. The Fatal Act Ged, driven by pride, performed the summoning. The spell went wrong, and the shadow was loosed. This was the climax of their rivalry, resulting in catastrophe.

The Aftermath of the Duel

The Loser Jasper's Flight Jasper, horrified, hid his eyes during the disaster. He never won his staff and left Roke soon after. He took a minor position in O-tokne, never achieving wizardry. The Irony Ged, though scarred and humbled, eventually became Archmage. Jasper's pride led to his downfall, while Ged's fall led to his true growth.

Ged's first day at Roke

the first day Ged explored Roke

the Long Dance festival, summer of Ged's third year

after the summoning, Jasper's departure