Part II Domestic Life in Narnia

Part II Domestic Life in Narnia
By Duncan Rize

C. S. Lewis cunningly depicts images that relate to domestic live and social issues in a real world setting. Such issues seem further emphasized by their direct parallel to biblical teachings. Further, through the use of symbolism and subtle connotations, Lewis addresses the social issues that affect domestic life in contemporary society and further suggests the solution to such issues by using biblical imagery.

First, Lewis addresses the issue of betrayal and notes how evil influences can be truly closer than one thinks. For instance, the character of Edmund, who betrays his friends and allies himself the witch, Queen Jadis, suddenly realizes how much trouble he is in when he witnesses her turning people into stone. Interestingly, the symbolism behind a scene can be identified in the fact that Lewis is stressing the importance of remaining true to one’s word, true to one’s alliances, and steering clear of evil influences. Even more interesting is the direct parallel with this scene and the depiction of the temptation of Eve in the Garden of Eden.

Just as Edmund falsely believed in Queen Jadis, Eve believed in the cunning words of the serpent who tempted her to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. What’s more, this scene depicts the true friendship between God and his people, that was violated by man’s betrayal; a betrayal that took the form of disobedience in God’s law. Interestingly, Edmund’s sudden realization of what he has become and will he will have to endure is akin to what Adam and Eve realized after they had eaten the forbidden fruit. Finally, on a deeper level, Lewis silently suggests that the acts of betrayal, of deceit, of lying and evil have a significant affect on the happiness of one’s domestic life.

Lewis had an ability for writing symbolically and such a talent has made his tales well loved by children throughout the world. Yet, the greatest ability that Lewis possessed was not the mere use of symbolism in narrating a tale, but the ability to weave real-life issues of domestic life and societal issues that affect happy domestic living. Finally, Lewis, through the use of biblical imagery, subtly offers the solution to such issues; the use of biblical imagery suggests that the bible and its teaching can help alleviate such toiling issues—with a faith in God and His laws, one can truly find happiness in their domestic and social life!

Duncan Rize loves the writings of C.S. Lewis and works with the marketing group at www.LearningByGrace.org. Learning by Grace manages of a number of internationally known online K-12 academies including www.TheGraceAcademy.org, www.TheJubileeAcademy.org, www.TheMorningStarAcademy.org and www.TheNarniaAcademy.org . This article is © 2005 ELRN, Inc. and may be quoted in whole or part as long as the author (Duncan Rize) and source (www.TheNarniaAcademy.org) are credited.

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