Therru

Therru is a fictional character introduced in Tales from Earthsea (2006), a Studio Ghibli animated fantasy film directed by Gorō Miyazaki. An original creation for the movie, she is a teenage girl living in a rural settlement who has endured abuse from a guardian figure. Her presence in the story accompanies the journey of Arren, a young prince, and the archmage Ged as they confront a dangerous sorcerer and seek to restore balance to Earthsea.

In the film, Therru is found and protected by Arren after a perilous incident. She becomes an ally to the protagonists and accompanies them on their quest. Her backstory and emotional arc are explored gradually, revealing themes of trauma, resilience, and the capacity for trust and forgiveness. Therru’s character is depicted as strong-willed and compassionate, with a connection to the land and to Earthsea’s magical ecology that underscores the narrative’s emphasis on moral responsibility.

Therru’s role has been discussed in reviews as a focal point for the film’s exploration of healing and empathy, helping to humanize the broader themes of power, guilt, and redemption. Critics have noted that her inclusion adds emotional depth to the adaptation, even as some fans and commentators contrast her portrayal with Le Guin’s source material.

See also: Earthsea, Tales from Earthsea, Tehanu.