LeGuin Chapters 1-10

    LeGuin presents an epic philosophical and sociological tale through The Left Hand of Darkness, a story about a human male diplomats' mission to a world of androgynous humanoids. The diplomat is named Genly Ai, and journeys to the planet of Gethen in order to convince them to join the planetary collective of humans called the Ekumen. He firsts journeys to the kingdom of Karhide to seek an audience with the King. This meeting is brokered by the prime minister, Estraven, who later renounces his support of Genly's mission and disappears. Nevertheless the meeting goes as planned however the disconnect between the two in regards to their cultures, specifically the unspoken rules and courtesy rites called shifgrethor, causes the King to see sinister layers in Genly's proposal that are not really there. The king refuses, but not before declaring Estraven a traitor for supporting the Ekumen diplomats' mission. Instead of staying in Karhide's capitol, Genly opts instead to venture towards the sister nation of Orgota. Along the way, small Gethenian folk tales are interspersed to give context to certain rules about the world; namely rules related to suicide, incest, and the cult of soothsayers called the Foretellers. This religious cult is the next stop for Genly, who asks them if Gethen will be a part of the Ekumen. The Foretellers answer yes, but their answers are vague and more meant to illicit the realization that it is better to not know any details about the future. Genly continues on to Orgota, while Estraven has worked his way into Orgota's power structure. Genly distrusts him because of their difference in gender politics, and Estraven's behaviour has made Genly believe that Estraven is only looking out for himself, despite Estraven's efforts being an obvious move to promote and protect Genly's mission.

    I find it interesting that a major theme in this novel is not just about gender roles, but also about how people can be so disconnected and ignorant of other cultures and how such interactions play out. The main reason that Genly loses the deal with the King is that he cannot see that the King's understanding of conversation is speech is with the expectation of ulterior motives and grander designs, when in actuality Genly is speaking plainly and honestly about an interplanetary relationship. Estraven's own cultural background makes it impossible for Genly to believe him or trust him, as his perspective of him has been warped by his own insecurities regarding masculinity and his lack of understanding of Gethenian culture.

    What can be said in regards to the novel's themes on cultural differences and ignorance to them?

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