Reading C.S.: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe
August 18th, 2007 | by Scott |Taking a break from literary criticism and apologetics Lewis wrote a fairy tale. The popularity of the first one he wrote would spark a series of 7 books beloved by countless people. The estate of Lewis still receives cards of children thanking C.S. for this series of books.
There is probably no more arresting figure in children’s literature than that of Aslan. He is a compelling portrait of what Christ would look like if he had stepped into the world of Narnia.
A couple of things I appreciated about this book:
–the redemption of the Judas figure, Edmund.
–Aslan’s admission of feeling sadness on his way to his death
–Lucy and Susan’s “feeling” that there was something wrong with Aslan and the need to check up on him.
What jumped out at you? Anything you would like to discuss about this wonderful tale?
Next up: Prince Caspian
2 Responses to “Reading C.S.: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe”
By mommaria on Aug 19, 2007 | Reply
I read this book at a changing point in my life. I had been a Christian for about 2 years and decided to read this series. I was in college, but back home for summer, I think. Anyway, God really used this book and the Aslan/Edmund relationship to really break through to me about fogiving my father for the things he had done. He was an alcoholic/abusive kinda guy who’s words were far worse than the belt which flew freely.
Anyway, I was in my room (which I paid rent for) and reading this book and God showed me that how Aslan forgave Ed was how I was to forgive my dad. Um really.. but but but….
I tell you what. My dad saw a change in me the next day. I turned it over and loved the one who hurt me so. To this day, I’m the only kid with a workable relationship with my father. He is still prickley, but I love him.
The true test was when I “stepped back from God” and my dad said “you act like you used to” Yeah, that will snap one back to reality.
I loved the trust of Lucy and Susan. They did what they were told, even when it meant walking away from what they thought was their dying brother to help another. My analysis of that is plant a seed, walk away and plant another and another. God’s responsiblity to water and grow. They did not see Edmund healed, but they believed Aslan when he warned them others needed them more than Edmund who had already had the elixor from Lucy.
Man…these books are awesome. Thanks for doing them in the original order, btw, I hated when they made the Magicians Nephew first. Took so much of the suprise and splendor away.
By Scott on Aug 20, 2007 | Reply
That is a great story. The Edmund/Aslan relationship is a beautiful one and the one I can most relate to as well.