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The Child and the Shadow by Ursula Le Guin [pdf]

Posted: 2025-03-30 15:49:19

Ursula K. Le Guin's "The Child and the Shadow" explores the crucial role of integrating the shadow self for healthy psychological development. Le Guin uses the fairy tale of "The Shadow" by Hans Christian Andersen to illustrate how denying or repressing the shadow leads to alienation and unhappiness. She argues that the shadow, representing our darker impulses and less admirable qualities, must be acknowledged and accepted as part of the whole self. Through consciousness and acceptance, the shadow can be integrated, leading to wholeness, maturity, and the ability to connect authentically with others. This process, though potentially frightening, is essential for living a full and meaningful life.

Ursula K. Le Guin's essay, "The Child and the Shadow," delves profoundly into the intricate relationship between the conscious self and the shadow self, drawing heavily upon Jungian psychology. Le Guin commences by establishing the universality of the shadow, that hidden aspect of our personality which contains the qualities we repress and deny. She articulates that while the shadow is often perceived negatively, as a repository for undesirable traits, it is, in actuality, an integral and indispensable component of the whole psyche. Ignoring or suppressing it leads to an incomplete and ultimately unhealthy sense of self.

Le Guin meticulously unpacks the process of shadow integration, explaining how it is a continuous journey, not a single destination. This journey, she argues, begins in childhood with the gradual differentiation of the "I" from the surrounding world. As the child develops, societal pressures and parental expectations begin to shape their understanding of acceptable and unacceptable behaviors, leading to the repression of those aspects deemed undesirable. These repressed qualities coalesce into the shadow, which can manifest in various ways, such as projection onto others, recurring nightmares, or unexplainable anxieties.

The essay emphasizes the crucial role of storytelling and myth in understanding and integrating the shadow. Le Guin elucidates how fairy tales, in particular, often depict the shadow as a monster or a villain, providing a safe space for children to confront and explore these darker aspects of themselves symbolically. These narratives, according to Le Guin, offer a valuable framework for grappling with the complexities of human nature and ultimately accepting the shadow as part of the self. She posits that through engaging with these archetypal narratives, children can begin to develop a more nuanced understanding of their own inner landscape.

Furthermore, Le Guin explores the concept of the "helping animal" archetype, often found in fairy tales and mythology, which she interprets as representing the instinctual wisdom residing within the unconscious. This figure, she suggests, can guide the individual towards wholeness by facilitating communication between the conscious and shadow selves. This connection to the instinctive and intuitive part of the self is presented as crucial for achieving psychological balance.

Le Guin expands upon the idea of shadow projection, explaining how we often attribute our own disavowed qualities to others. This projection, she argues, can lead to prejudice, conflict, and a general inability to form authentic connections. By becoming aware of our projections, we can begin to reclaim these disowned aspects of ourselves and integrate them into our conscious awareness, thus fostering greater self-acceptance and compassion for others.

In conclusion, "The Child and the Shadow" offers a rich and insightful exploration of the shadow self, its development, and its significance in the journey towards wholeness. Le Guin skillfully weaves together psychological theory, literary analysis, and personal reflection to provide a compelling argument for the necessity of embracing the shadow as an integral part of the human experience. She champions the idea that by acknowledging and integrating our shadow, we not only achieve a more complete understanding of ourselves, but also cultivate a more compassionate and empathetic connection with the world around us.

Summary of Comments ( 11 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43525079

HN users discuss Le Guin's essay on the shadow self, largely agreeing with her premise of integrating rather than suppressing the negative aspects of personality. Several commenters appreciate the Jungian perspective and explore the idea of the shadow as a source of creativity and authenticity. Some discuss the practical challenges of integrating the shadow, noting the societal pressures to conform and the difficulty in accepting uncomfortable truths about oneself. The danger of projecting the shadow onto others is also highlighted, as is the importance of self-awareness in navigating these complexities. A few commenters mention the relevance of Le Guin's essay to current societal issues, such as political polarization. Overall, the comments reflect a thoughtful engagement with Le Guin's ideas.

The Hacker News post titled "The Child and the Shadow by Ursula Le Guin [pdf]" contains several comments discussing the linked essay. Many users praise Le Guin's writing and insights into Jungian psychology, particularly her exploration of the shadow self.

One commenter appreciates Le Guin's ability to make complex psychological concepts accessible to a wider audience, highlighting her clear and engaging prose. They specifically mention how she effectively explains the process of integrating the shadow, a key aspect of Jungian thought.

Another commenter draws a parallel between Le Guin's essay and her fiction, noting how the themes of integration and acceptance present in "The Child and the Shadow" also appear in her novels, like A Wizard of Earthsea. They argue that this consistency demonstrates the depth of Le Guin's understanding and her commitment to exploring these ideas through different mediums.

Several comments focus on the practical implications of Le Guin's insights. One user discusses how understanding the shadow self can lead to greater self-awareness and improved interpersonal relationships. They mention the importance of acknowledging and accepting one's own flaws and negative tendencies rather than suppressing or projecting them onto others.

Another commenter reflects on the societal implications of shadow work, suggesting that a wider understanding of these concepts could lead to a more compassionate and tolerant society. They propose that recognizing the universality of the shadow could help to reduce prejudice and conflict.

Some users share personal anecdotes about their own experiences with shadow work, often mentioning how Le Guin's essay resonated with them on a personal level. They discuss the challenges and rewards of confronting their own shadow selves and the impact this process has had on their lives.

A few comments offer further resources on Jungian psychology for those interested in learning more. These include links to other articles, books, and websites related to the topic.

Overall, the comments reflect a strong appreciation for Le Guin's essay and its insightful exploration of the shadow self. Users praise her clarity, depth, and ability to connect complex psychological concepts to everyday life. The discussion also highlights the practical applications of these ideas for personal growth and societal improvement.

Ogres Are Cool

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Posted: 2025-03-15 03:28:39

Colin Burrow's "Ogres Are Cool" argues that ogres, far from being simply monstrous, embody complex and often contradictory cultural anxieties. From their ambiguous origins in folklore to their modern depictions in children's stories and film, ogres reflect evolving societal fears about the other – encompassing foreignness, wildness, and the blurring of human/animal boundaries. The ogre's cannibalism, a defining characteristic, taps into primal fears of consumption and the violation of social taboos, while simultaneously offering a perverse fascination with transgression. Ultimately, the enduring appeal of the ogre lies in its capacity to embody these anxieties in a figure that is both terrifying and strangely compelling.

Colin Burrow's essay, "Ogres Are Cool," published in the London Review of Books, embarks upon a comprehensive exploration of the ogre's enduring presence within the tapestry of folklore and literature. He meticulously dissects the etymology of the word "ogre," tracing its origins back to the figure of Orcus, the Roman god of the underworld, and ultimately connecting it to the Hungarian "ogur," referencing a Turkic people historically associated with barbarism. Burrow posits that this etymological lineage imbues the ogre with a primal, almost elemental, association with fear and the unknown, effectively positioning the ogre as a symbolic representation of the external threats perceived by settled communities.

The essay further elucidates how the ogre archetype has metamorphosed throughout literary history. Burrow meticulously examines the ogre's depiction in various literary contexts, commencing with the medieval chansons de geste and continuing through the fairy tales of Perrault and the Grimm brothers. He notes the consistent portrayal of ogres as monstrous figures, often characterized by their immense size, grotesque appearance, and insatiable appetite, frequently, and most disturbingly, for human flesh. This cannibalistic tendency, Burrow argues, further cements the ogre's position as a figure of abject terror, embodying the primal fear of being consumed, both literally and metaphorically, by forces beyond human control.

However, Burrow's analysis transcends a simple cataloging of ogreish traits. He delves into the complex and often contradictory roles ogres play within these narratives. While acknowledging the ogre's predominantly negative portrayal, he also observes a certain degree of ambiguity, a potential for complexity within the monstrous facade. He highlights instances where ogres exhibit unexpected moments of vulnerability, even tenderness, suggesting a potential for redemption, or at least, a recognition of their inherent humanity, however deeply buried beneath layers of barbarity.

Burrow's examination extends to contemporary manifestations of the ogre in popular culture, referencing examples such as Shrek to illustrate how the figure has been reinterpreted and, in some cases, rehabilitated. He argues that the enduring fascination with ogres stems from their capacity to embody our deepest anxieties about the unknown, about the "other," while simultaneously offering a canvas onto which we can project our own complex and often contradictory desires and fears. In conclusion, Burrow's essay offers not merely a history of the ogre, but a profound meditation on the enduring power of monsters in the human imagination, demonstrating their capacity to evolve and adapt across cultures and time periods, reflecting our ever-shifting relationship with the world and the shadows that lurk within it.

Summary of Comments ( 9 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43369739

HN users largely agree with the author's premise that ogres are experiencing a cultural resurgence, moving away from purely monstrous depictions. Several commenters highlight Shrek as the pivotal turning point, making ogres sympathetic and even heroic. Some discuss the etymology of "ogre," linking it to Hungarian and historical figures like Attila the Hun. Others explore the shifting portrayals of ogres in various media, from Tolkien to Dungeons & Dragons, noting their complex and sometimes contradictory nature (brutal yet family-oriented). A few users push back, arguing that ogres have always had a multifaceted presence in folklore, predating Shrek. There's also a brief discussion of other "monster" rehabilitations in popular culture.

The Hacker News post "Ogres Are Cool" (linking to a London Review of Books article of the same name) generated a modest discussion with 15 comments. Several commenters engage with the premise of the article, which, based on the comments, seems to explore the evolving portrayal and cultural significance of ogres.

One commenter appreciates the author's exploration of how ogres, initially figures of terror, have become somewhat sympathetic figures. They highlight the shift from ogres being purely monstrous to their portrayal in works like "Shrek" where they possess relatable qualities and struggles. Another commenter picks up on this thread, mentioning George MacDonald's "The Princess and the Goblin" and suggesting that perhaps ogres have always held a more nuanced position in folklore than solely being objects of fear.

The discussion also touches upon the nature of folklore and mythology. One commenter remarks on the fluid nature of such stories, highlighting how they adapt and change across cultures and over time. This malleability, they suggest, is what allows figures like ogres to be reinterpreted and recontextualized.

A couple of comments offer further reading suggestions related to folklore and mythology, pointing to other analyses of fairy tales and monstrous figures. One commenter even draws a parallel to Tolkien's orcs, suggesting that they, too, underwent a similar shift from purely evil beings to more complex characters with their own motivations, particularly in the works of Tolkien's son, Christopher.

There's a brief tangent about video game representations of ogres, with one commenter mentioning how they're often portrayed as brutes or cannon fodder. Another commenter contrasts this with the nuanced portrayal of ogres in the tabletop role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons, suggesting that their depiction there allows for more complex interactions and character development.

Overall, the comments section reflects a general agreement with the article's premise and explores the evolving cultural understanding of ogres. The commenters delve into the adaptable nature of folklore, comparing different portrayals of ogres in literature and gaming, and reflecting on the shift from pure monster to more complex and sometimes sympathetic figure. The discussion remains relatively focused on the topic, without significant digressions or disagreements.

The Meter, Golden Ratio, Pyramids, and Cubits, Oh My

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Posted: 2025-02-28 17:15:04

The blog post explores the interconnectedness of various measurement systems and mathematical concepts, examining potential historical links that are likely coincidental. The author notes the near equivalence of a meter to a royal cubit times the golden ratio, and how this relates to the dimensions of the Great Pyramid of Giza. While acknowledging the established historical definition of the meter based on Earth's circumference, the post speculates on whether ancient Egyptians might have possessed a sophisticated understanding of these relationships, potentially incorporating the golden ratio and Earth's dimensions into their construction. However, the author ultimately concludes that the observed connections are likely due to mathematical happenstance rather than deliberate design.

This blog post delves into a fascinating, albeit speculative, exploration of the potential interconnectedness between various metrological systems, specifically the meter, the Egyptian royal cubit, and the mathematical concept of the Golden Ratio, often denoted by the Greek letter phi (Φ). The author embarks on a journey to examine the historical development of the meter, tracing its origins back to the French Revolution and its initial definition as one ten-millionth of the distance from the North Pole to the Equator along a meridian passing through Paris. This geodetic definition, the author posits, might hold a hidden connection to ancient Egyptian metrology.

The post introduces the Egyptian royal cubit, an ancient unit of length approximately equal to 0.5236 meters, and highlights its purported relationship with the dimensions of the Great Pyramid of Giza. The author suggests a possible link between the pyramid's perimeter at its base and the circumference of the Earth, scaled by a factor related to the number of days in a year. This connection, the author argues, could imply that the ancient Egyptians possessed a sophisticated understanding of geodesy and metrology, potentially surpassing even that of the 18th-century French scientists who defined the meter.

Further fueling this intriguing narrative, the author brings the Golden Ratio into the equation. Phi, an irrational number approximately equal to 1.618, is known for its aesthetic properties and its appearance in various natural phenomena. The author explores the potential relationship between the meter, the royal cubit, and phi, suggesting that the meter might have inadvertently inherited a connection to the Golden Ratio through its geodetic definition and the presumed geodetic knowledge embedded within the Great Pyramid's dimensions. This implication, though lacking definitive proof, raises the possibility that the seemingly arbitrary length of the meter might possess a deeper, more ancient significance, resonating with the mathematical harmonies observed in nature and possibly echoing the advanced metrological understanding of ancient civilizations.

While acknowledging the speculative nature of these connections, the author invites readers to consider the possibility of a hidden thread linking seemingly disparate elements across millennia, suggesting that the meter, far from being a purely arbitrary unit of measurement, might be subtly intertwined with ancient wisdom and the fundamental mathematical principles governing the universe. The post concludes with an open-ended invitation to further explore these intriguing connections, encouraging readers to ponder the potential historical and mathematical implications of these interwoven concepts.

Summary of Comments ( 13 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43207962

HN commenters largely dismiss the linked article as numerology and pseudoscience. Several point out the arbitrary nature of choosing specific measurements and units (meters, cubits) to force connections. One commenter notes that the golden ratio shows up frequently in geometric constructions, making its presence in the pyramids unsurprising and not necessarily indicative of intentional design. Others criticize the article's lack of rigor and its reliance on coincidences rather than evidence-based arguments. The general consensus is that the article presents a flawed and unconvincing argument for a relationship between these different elements.

The Hacker News post titled "The Meter, Golden Ratio, Pyramids, and Cubits, Oh My" has generated a moderate number of comments, most of which express skepticism and amusement at the original article's attempt to connect the meter to the Great Pyramid of Giza via the golden ratio and cubits.

Several commenters point out the historical inaccuracy of the claims. One commenter highlights that the meter's definition has changed over time, initially being related to the Earth's circumference and only later linked to a physical artifact. This debunks the idea of a pre-planned connection to ancient Egyptian measurements. Another commenter mentions the imprecision inherent in measuring the pyramid itself, making any exact correspondence with the meter highly improbable. The variability in historical cubit lengths is also raised, further undermining the argument for a precise relationship.

Another line of discussion centers on the perceived "pyramid inch" and its alleged relationship to British Imperial units. Commenters dismiss this connection as coincidental and highlight the convoluted logic required to arrive at such a conclusion. The tendency to find patterns where none exist is also discussed, referencing the phenomenon of pareidolia.

Some commenters approach the topic with humor, joking about the prevalence of such theories and the fascination with hidden connections. One commenter sarcastically suggests a connection between the size of their foot and the circumference of Jupiter. Another uses the opportunity to plug a book debunking similar historical myths.

A few commenters attempt to engage with the mathematical aspects, discussing the golden ratio and its properties. However, these discussions generally reinforce the skepticism towards the original article's claims, emphasizing the lack of evidence for any meaningful connection.

In summary, the comments on Hacker News largely reject the premise of the linked article. They point out historical inaccuracies, methodological flaws, and the general implausibility of the proposed connections. The overall tone is one of skepticism, occasionally tinged with humor and amusement at the article's attempts to find profound meaning in numerical coincidences.

Seeing Through the Spartan Mirage

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Posted: 2025-02-19 13:54:51

The article "Seeing Through the Spartan Mirage" argues that the popular image of Spartans as disciplined, egalitarian super-soldiers is largely a manufactured myth propagated centuries after their decline. While Spartans certainly emphasized military prowess and had a unique social structure, the reality was far more complex and less romanticized. Their system relied heavily on the brutal subjugation of the helot population, leading to constant fear of revolt and limiting their ability to project power. Furthermore, Spartan society was riddled with inequality, marked by wealth disparities and a powerful elite that manipulated the narrative to their advantage. The article concludes that the romanticized Spartan ideal, perpetuated through selective historical accounts and philosophical idealization, obscures a much darker and less exceptional reality.

The Substack post entitled "Seeing Through the Spartan Mirage" undertakes a comprehensive deconstruction of the popularized, romanticized perception of ancient Sparta, meticulously dissecting the historical realities that lie beneath the layers of myth and legend. The author argues that the prevailing image of Sparta as a bastion of unwavering military discipline, austere living, and egalitarian principles is largely a constructed narrative, propagated through the centuries by a confluence of factors ranging from ancient Athenian propaganda and the idealized visions of later philosophers like Plato to the selective interpretations of modern historians and the pervasive influence of popular culture.

The piece commences by acknowledging the enduring allure of the Spartan mythos, a narrative often centered around the iconic last stand at Thermopylae. However, it swiftly pivots to expose the inherent contradictions and inconsistencies within this idealized depiction. The author delves into the socioeconomic structure of Spartan society, highlighting the deep-seated inequality inherent in the helot system, where a subjugated population of enslaved laborers toiled to sustain the privileged lifestyle of the Spartan citizenry. This dependence on forced labor, the author argues, fundamentally undermines the notion of Spartan self-sufficiency and martial prowess, portraying them not as noble warrior-philosophers but as a ruling class reliant on the brutal exploitation of an underclass.

Furthermore, the essay challenges the popular portrayal of Spartan military invincibility. While acknowledging their formidable military capabilities, the author meticulously catalogs instances of Spartan defeat and strategic blunders, demonstrating that their military record was far from flawless. The piece emphasizes that the romanticized narrative of Spartan military superiority often overlooks the crucial role played by allies and other factors, attributing an undue level of credit to Spartan discipline alone.

The author also critically examines the perceived social equality within Spartan society, revealing that even among the Spartiates themselves, a hierarchical structure existed, with power concentrated in the hands of a select elite. The much-lauded agoge, the rigorous Spartan education system, is reinterpreted not as a system promoting egalitarianism, but as a mechanism for indoctrinating and perpetuating the existing social order. The author suggests that the emphasis on communal living and the suppression of individuality served to solidify the state's control over its citizens.

Finally, the essay explores the historical context in which the Spartan myth developed, tracing its evolution from ancient Athenian portrayals – often motivated by political rivalry – to its romanticized resurgence in later periods. The author argues that the Spartan myth has served various ideological purposes throughout history, being appropriated and reinterpreted to support different political agendas and social ideals. The piece concludes by emphasizing the importance of engaging with the complexities of historical evidence and resisting the temptation to accept simplistic and romanticized narratives at face value. It calls for a more nuanced understanding of Spartan society, one that acknowledges its internal contradictions, its reliance on brutal exploitation, and the constructed nature of its enduring legend.

Summary of Comments ( 32 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43102182

HN users generally agree with the article's debunking of the "Spartan mirage," pointing out that Sparta's system was brutal, unsustainable, and ultimately a failure. Several commenters highlight the hypocrisy of romanticizing a society built on slavery and constant warfare. Some discuss the dangers of idealizing historical societies without acknowledging their flaws, and how this can be used to justify harmful modern ideologies. Others question the reliability of sources on Spartan history, emphasizing the need for critical analysis. A few offer alternative interpretations, suggesting that Sparta's militarism might have been a response to specific geopolitical pressures, not a deliberate choice. The lack of archaeological evidence compared to Athens is also mentioned, further reinforcing the idea of a constructed narrative around Spartan society.

The Hacker News post "Seeing Through the Spartan Mirage" has generated a robust discussion with several compelling comments focusing on various aspects of Spartan society and the article's portrayal.

Several commenters delve into the complexities of understanding historical societies, cautioning against simplistic interpretations. One commenter emphasizes the difficulty of separating fact from fiction in ancient history, highlighting that our understanding is often shaped by limited and potentially biased sources. This commenter also points out that even contemporary accounts might be influenced by political agendas or cultural biases, making objective historical reconstruction challenging. Another emphasizes the importance of understanding the context within which historical events occur and warns against projecting modern values and interpretations onto the past. They use the example of pederasty, noting its prevalence in various ancient societies and suggesting the need to understand its cultural significance within that historical context rather than judging it through a modern lens.

Another thread of discussion emerges concerning the nature of Spartan society, particularly its military focus and social structure. One commenter draws a comparison between Sparta and the Soviet Union, suggesting that both societies were characterized by extreme social control and military prioritization, ultimately leading to their decline. Others discuss the harsh realities of Spartan life, with one commenter describing the Agoge system as a form of "child abuse" and questioning the romantic image often associated with Spartan warriors. This line of discussion highlights the brutality and potential downsides of the Spartan system, challenging the idealized perception of it.

Some commenters engage directly with specific points raised in the article, discussing the reliability of historical sources and the interpretation of archaeological evidence. One points out the article's reliance on Plutarch, arguing that he should be viewed more as a biographer than a historian. They suggest that Plutarch's accounts may have been influenced by his own moral and philosophical perspectives, potentially distorting the historical reality of Sparta. Another commenter raises the issue of archaeological findings, suggesting that physical evidence can offer valuable insights into past societies and may challenge or corroborate textual accounts.

There are also discussions about the article's writing style and approach. Some commenters praise the article's clarity and engaging prose, while others criticize it for potentially oversimplifying complex historical issues. One commenter raises the concern that focusing too heavily on debunking popular myths can overshadow the nuances and complexities of historical understanding.

Overall, the comments on Hacker News provide a diverse range of perspectives on the article and the topic of Spartan society, engaging in critical analysis of historical interpretations, challenging idealized notions, and prompting deeper reflection on the complexities of the past.

Stories with Tag Mythology

The Child and the Shadow by Ursula Le Guin [pdf]

Summary of Comments ( 11 ) https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43525079

Ogres Are Cool

Summary of Comments ( 9 ) https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43369739

The Meter, Golden Ratio, Pyramids, and Cubits, Oh My

Summary of Comments ( 13 ) https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43207962

Seeing Through the Spartan Mirage

Summary of Comments ( 32 ) https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43102182

Summary of Comments ( 11 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43525079

Summary of Comments ( 9 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43369739

Summary of Comments ( 13 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43207962

Summary of Comments ( 32 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43102182