Understanding C. S. Lewis's Allegorical Conclusions in 'The Last Battle'

C. S. Lewis's 'The Last Battle': An Examination of Allegory, Faith, and Characterization

As a renowned author and Christian apologist, C. S. Lewis imbued his works with deep allegorical meanings, weaving biblical concepts into his fictional tales. One such example is his The Last Battle, an allegory that resonates with the themes of the biblical book of Revelation. In this essay, we will explore why Lewis concluded this way, focusing on the role of Susan, the portrayal of female characters, and the eschatological implications.

Allegorical Interpretation of 'The Last Battle'

'The Last Battle' serves as a symbolic representation of the end of the world and the culmination of the events in the Narnia series. As a metaphor for the apocalyptic vision of Revelation, the story reflects the final battle between good and evil, with God and Satan as central figures on opposing sides.

Warren Motte and Michael Wagar have noted that Lewis's portrayal of Susan as a character who eventually rejects faith and ultimately loses her place in Narnia is a stark commentary on the dangers of apostasy and the potential consequences of losing one's salvation in Christianity. This is reflected in the general belief among many Christian denominations that there is a risk of losing one's salvation, especially by losing faith and rejecting God. Susan's predicament is thus meant to serve as a cautionary tale, particularly for those who may be tempted to stray from the path of grace.

Portrayal of Female Characters and Gender Dynamics

Another aspect that warrants discussion is the portrayal of female characters in the Narnia series. In 'The Last Battle', Susan is particularly scrutinized, and her story is left unfinished, leaving fans to debate her fate for eternity. This decision by Lewis has been interpreted as reflecting the gender dynamics of his time, where women were often portrayed in a more negative light compared to their male counterparts.

The character of Jadis, an embodiment of evil in Narnia, is a powerful and seductive figure, but also a tragic one. Her transformation from an innocent girl to a terrifying witch mirrors the broader societal perception of women as both alluring and dangerous. In The Lost Continent by Charles Cutcliffe Hyne, there is a similar character, the Empress Phorenice, which further emphasizes the recurring theme in literature of 'innocent girls' turning into frightening creatures.

These portrayals suggest that Lewis may have been influenced by the anxiety and stereotypes prevalent in his era regarding women's roles and capabilities. However, it is also worth noting that such portrayals contribute to the rich and complex tapestry of characters in his works, allowing for a deeper exploration of moral and spiritual themes.

Metaphysical Interpretations of 'The Last Battle'

Going beyond the literal narrative, 'The Last Battle' can also be interpreted as a metaphor for the death of the Pevensie siblings and their friends. This interpretation hinges on the idea that Narnia is a manifestation of their faith and belief, which collapses with their passing.

The textual evidence, such as the mention of a sharp jolt and horrendous noise, suggests that the characters may have been transported to Narnia at the moment of their death. This kind of portrayal implies that Narnia serves as a transcendent realm, where faith and belief are more profound and enduring than life on Earth.

Furthermore, the appearance of Tira? to the Friends before their death can be seen as a prophetic sign, reinforcing the idea that the end of Narnia is a metaphor for the death of the Pevensies and their associates. This perspective adds depth to the narrative and invites readers to contemplate the broader spiritual and metaphysical implications of the story.

In conclusion, C. S. Lewis's 'The Last Battle' is a masterful blend of allegory, symbolism, and metaphor. Through Susan's character, he presents a cautionary tale, while the portrayal of female characters reflects the anxieties of his time. The metaphysical interpretations of the story further enrich its meaning, inviting readers to explore the deeper theological and philosophical questions that underpin this beloved series.

Final Thoughts

Despite the complexities and controversies surrounding some of Lewis's choices, 'The Last Battle' remains a powerful and thought-provoking work. As readers, we can engage with these themes and interpretations, finding new meaning and understanding with each rereading.

Credit: The information provided here is based on analysis and research, including re-readings of Narnia and a personal background in being raised as a Christian before growing out of it. It is important to note that the views expressed are personal interpretations and not a suggestion of belief in religious entities.