Ged's Education at the School for Wizards

Ged's years at Roke, his rivalry with Jasper, and the disastrous summoning that loosed the shadow.

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Arrival at Roke

The Storm and the Light Passing the Roke-Wind Ged's ship was caught in a storm and nearly driven off course, but Ged saw a light that he knew was Roke. He guided the ship to Thwil Bay, passing through the storm into clear air. This was his first test of navigation by magic. The Doorkeeper's Trial At the School, the Doorkeeper refused him entry until he spoke his true name. Ged hesitated, but finally said “Ged,” and the door opened. A shadow seemed to follow him in, foreshadowing his future.

Meeting the Archmage

The Fountain Court Nemmerle's Welcome Ged was brought before the Archmage Nemmerle, an ancient, white-clad man. In that moment, Ged understood the language of the bird and the water, feeling himself a word spoken by sunlight. The moment passed, but it was a glimpse of true unity. The Raven's Omen Nemmerle's raven spoke in Osskilian, a phrase Ged did not understand. The Archmage mumbled and smiled, then left. Ged was assigned a student guide, Jasper, who would become his rival.

First Lessons and Rivalry

The Masters and the Studies Learning Illusion Ged studied with the Master Windkey, Master Herbal, Master Hand, and others. He excelled in illusion, but his pride made him contemptuous of the simpler arts. He quickly became known as the quickest student, but also arrogant. Jasper's Mockery Jasper, a polished nobleman's son, constantly belittled Ged. Their rivalry grew. On Roke Knoll, Jasper challenged Ged to show his skill, and Ged, humiliated, boasted that Gontish wizards do not play games. He swore to prove himself.

The Year in the Isolate Tower

The Master Namer Kurremkarmerruk's Lessons Ged was sent to the Isolate Tower to study with the Master Namer. He learned the true names of countless places, things, and beings. The Master's words about the Balance and the limits of power sank deep into Ged's understanding. The Otak Hoeg On his way back south, Ged found a wild otak that chose to accompany him. The creature, called Hoeg, became his loyal companion. This event marked a turning point: Ged began to appreciate the value of silent companionship.

The Challenge and the Summoning

The Festival Night The Duel of Words During the Long Dance festival, Ged and Jasper's rivalry erupted. Jasper taunted Ged, and Ged challenged him to a test of power. Jasper suggested summoning a spirit from the dead, and Ged, driven by pride, agreed. The Loosing On Roke Knoll, Ged began the Spell of Summoning. He called the spirit of Elfarran, but instead of a spirit, a shapeless shadow-beast burst through the rent and attacked Ged, tearing his face and shoulder. The Archmage Nemmerle arrived and drove the shadow away, but at the cost of his own life.

spring, after the voyage from Gont

immediately after entering the School

first months at Roke

Ged's second year at Roke (winter)

summer after the Long Dance, Ged's third year