Abstract

Many C.S. Lewis scholars have studied displays of positive Christian symbolism in Lewis’ work of children’s fantasy, The Chronicles of Narnia, but very little scholarship has focused on characters that oppose the positive representations of Christianity in the novels. This project analyzes the theological importance of Calormenes, the Witch figure, and Telmarines, finding Calormenes represent the religious lost, the Witch figure represents Lilith and Satan the Tempter, and the Telmarines represent an atheistic worldview.

The project also addresses criticisms of Lewis’ representations of antagonists in the Chronicles as racist. Many scholars have noted the ethnocentrism present in Lewis’ descriptions of Calormenes as a Middle-Eastern people. The essay analyzes this criticism acknowledging the racism of Lewis’ times that influenced his writing, while also recognizing that theological racism is an allegation of which Lewis is not guilty. Uncovering the theological significance of these characters will give Christian and literary scholars insight into the Chronicles’ presentation of the un-Christian – who they are, how they deviate from Christianity and what Lewis believes their fate will be.

Semester/Year of Award

Spring 2013

Mentor

Christopher J. Neumann

Mentor Department Affiliation

English and Theatre

Access Options

Restricted Access Thesis

Document Type

Bachelor Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelor's

Department

Teaching, Learning, and Educational Leadership

Department Name when Degree Awarded

Curriculum and Instruction

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