Shevek’s character in The Dispossessed is an intense and complicated hero, with high intellect and a lack of social skills who desires to understand his nature through science. Shevek discovers severe complications as a scientist when he finds it impossible to achieve the initial goal. The world of Urras gave Shevek all resources and freedom to develop a successful theory, which he could not pursue under the collectivistic structure of Anarres.
The author shows that regardless of the occupation, society needs individuality, and freedom of character, allowing for a diverse, progressive community. Anarres oppressed Shevek, deducting the works under the collectivistic idea that nothing belongs to anyone, and everything belongs to everyone: “And the hand that you reach out is empty, as mine is. You have nothing” (Le Guin, 1974). Therefore, power and work can only exist if freedom and individuality are recognized.
The deep-rooted principles of Anarres caused to once idealize the system, suppressing individuality. Thrown into a completely new environment such as Creature, Shevek is curious to discover the new mentality of society. His view of solidarity between planets and their citizens motivates him professionally, as he sincerely wants to feel appreciated. Such hardships are distinctly different from Captain Nemo’s or Traveler’s superficial ones, as they imply a more philosophical sense: “The explorer who will not come back or send back his ships to tell his tale is not an explorer, only an adventurer” (Le Guin, 1974). The inability to adapt to society does not make Shevek a traitor, but a person with a broad worldview and high philanthropic ambitions.
The scene with sexual assault makes the reader reconsider the standard image of a hero, showcasing both the good and vicious sides of a person. The open-minded scientist, intending to change the world for the better, could also be an aggressive rapist who could not calmly perceive a naked woman after alcohol. Vea is portrayed as a tool of manipulation and a product of a utopian society that is not always perfect.
Therefore, Shevek’s character possesses a generalized portrayal that the world cannot be perfect. Despite his high intellectual and philosophic abilities, he still implies a biased worldview and sick nature inside. Thus, the author displays a story of an anarchist saturated in a new environment, unable to fully adapt to utopian beliefs. The novel provokes concerns, implied through the main character, and lets everyone reconsider their worldview.
Reference
Le Guin, U. (1974). The dispossessed: An ambiguous Utopia (1st ed.). Harper & Row.