The Heart of Manhood and Heroism in Taran's Characterization Tanya Strydom 8th Grade

“Most of us are called on to perform tasks far beyond what we believe we can do. Our capabilities seldom match our aspirations, and we are often woefully unprepared. To this extent, we are all Assistant Pig-Keepers at heart.” (Alexander, 1964, p2)

Lloyd Alexander wanted to teach an important lesson, and he did so through writing the Prydain Chronicles. The Book of Three follows the journey of Taran as he grows from Assistant Pig Keeper to a hero of Prydain, learning valuable lessons on the way. It is a dramatic, carefully woven tale, which keeps the reader riveted, while at the same time giving something serious to ponder. It is a story about heroes and manhood. It answers the question: what makes a hero? It is not appearance, and it is not a lack of fear. It is more than that. A true hero stands for what matters, displays courage even when full of fear, and is humble enough to recognise his own weaknesses. Lloyd Alexander successfully uses characters, action, and dialogue to demonstrate the true nature of a hero. Later in the series, the idea of manhood is expanded further, as the main character, Taran, grows older, but the foundation is firmly built in this story.

In demonstrating the nature of a hero, the story follows...