English Literature - I

Project Report

“The Chronicles of Narnia”

Submitted by:
 Javeria Khalid BSE221001
 Malik Hamza BSE221044

Submitted to: Ma’am Asma Naz

Dated: 6th June 2023
“THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA”

The lion the witch and the wardrobe

 ABSTRACT
"The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is a beloved fantasy movie
that captivates audiences with its magical world and timeless themes. This literary project report
delves into the intricate layers of symbolism and narrative depth embedded within the film.
Through a meticulous analysis of its characters, settings, and overarching plot, this report aims to
unveil the profound messages and allegorical significance that make "The Lion, the Witch, and
the Wardrobe" a work of literary brilliance.

The report begins by exploring the central characters and their symbolic representations. As the
four Pevensie siblings venture into the enchanting land of Narnia, they embody different aspects
of human nature and virtue. By examining their individual journeys, the report highlights how
their personal growth mirrors the archetypal hero's journey and represents virtues such as
courage, loyalty, and sacrifice.

Furthermore, the report delves into the symbolism behind the magical settings in Narnia. From
the wintry realm ruled by the White Witch to the majestic presence of Aslan the Lion, each
location serves as a metaphorical landscape that reflects deeper themes and moral dilemmas. The
project investigates how the contrasting environments of Narnia act as catalysts for character
development and contribute to the overarching themes of good versus evil, redemption, and the
power of faith.

In addition to exploring the symbolism, the report also analyzes the narrative structure and
thematic elements of the movie. It examines the themes of temptation and redemption as
portrayed through Edmund's character arc, shedding light on the consequences of selfishness and
the potential for personal transformation. The religious undertones present in the narrative are
also explored, drawing parallels between the story of Narnia and Christian allegory.

Finally, the report concludes by highlighting the enduring impact of "The Chronicles of Narnia:
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" on both literature and popular culture. It acknowledges
the resonance of its themes and the universal appeal of its messages, making it a timeless
masterpiece that continues to enchant audiences of all ages.
Through a comprehensive analysis of the movie's symbolism, narrative structure, and thematic
depth, this literary project report offers a profound understanding of "The Chronicles of Narnia:
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe." It celebrates the film's ability to transport viewers to a
world where imagination intertwines with profound philosophical questions, leaving a lasting
impression on the collective imagination.
Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 Background and Overview

"The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is a timeless fantasy
adventure film directed by Andrew Adamson that captivates viewers with its magical world and
engaging narrative. The story revolves around four siblings, Lucy, Edmund, Peter, and Susan
Pevensie, who stumble upon a wardrobe that acts as a portal to the mystical land of Narnia. Their
journey takes them on a quest to overthrow the tyrannical rule of the White Witch, where they
encounter various characters and face numerous challenges that test their courage, loyalty, and
moral integrity.

1.2 Genre

"The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" falls within the genre of fantasy and adventure. It
combines elements of magic, mythical creatures, and a heroic quest, immersing the audience in a
fantastical realm.

1.3 Story Overview

The movie centers around the Pevensie siblings' discovery of the enchanting land of Narnia
through a wardrobe in their guardian's house. As they explore Narnia, they learn of its plight
under the rule of the White Witch, who has plunged the land into an eternal winter. Guided by
the wise lion, Aslan, the siblings join forces with the inhabitants of Narnia to defeat the Witch
and restore peace and harmony to the realm.

Chapter 2: Character Analysis

2.1 Main Characters

2.1.1 Lucy

Lucy serves as the protagonist, embodying innocence, curiosity, and unwavering faith. Her initial
discovery of Narnia through the wardrobe sets the adventure in motion, and her pure heart and
trust in others contribute significantly to the story's progression.

2.1.2 Edmund

Initially portrayed as selfish and deceitful, Edmund represents the flawed human nature
susceptible to temptation. He undergoes a transformative journey of redemption and plays a
pivotal role in the story, highlighting the potential for growth and change in even the most
misguided individuals.

2.1.3 Peter
Peter embodies courage, leadership, and the protective nature of an older sibling. Throughout the
story, he emerges as a brave and resilient leader, guiding his siblings through their trials and
embodying the qualities of a true hero.

2.1.4 Susan

Susan is portrayed as intelligent, practical, and nurturing. Her resourcefulness contributes to the
group's survival and success, highlighting the importance of intellect and adaptability in
challenging situations.

2.1.5 Faun

A magical creature, the Faun befriends Lucy and provides support and guidance during her
initial encounters in Narnia. The Faun symbolizes the potential for friendship and alliances even
in the most unexpected places.

2.1.6 The Witch

The Witch serves as the primary antagonist, representing evil, cruelty, and the abuse of power.
She seeks to maintain control over Narnia and eliminate anyone who opposes her, embodying
the struggle between good and evil.

2.1.7 Aslan

Aslan, the majestic lion, symbolizes goodness, courage, sacrifice, and redemption. He serves as
the true ruler of Narnia, representing a Christ-like figure and playing a crucial role in the
liberation of the land from the Witch's tyranny.

2.2 Character Analysis

The main characters collectively undergo significant character development throughout the story.
Each character possesses unique strengths, weaknesses, and growth arcs that contribute to the
overall narrative and theme. The dynamic interactions and conflicts between the characters
highlight the complexities of human nature and the potential for personal growth and
redemption.

2.2.1 Protagonist:
Lucy, Edmund, Peter, and Susan collectively serve as the protagonists, each displaying
unique strengths, virtues, and growth throughout the story.
2.2.2 Antagonist:
The Witch assumes the role of the antagonist, embodying wickedness, manipulation, and
the desire for control.

Chapter 3: Setting, Motif, and Symbolism

3.1 Setting

Narnia serves as the

primary setting for the
story, a magical realm
accessible through the
wardrobe. The land is
depicted as a wintry
landscape perpetually
frozen under the Witch's
rule. The contrasting
environments, from the
snowy forests to the majestic Stone Table, contribute to the atmosphere and symbolize the
ongoing battle between good and evil.

3.2 Motif

The motif of the wardrobe acts as a gateway between the ordinary world and the fantastical
realm of Narnia. It represents the possibility of escape, discovery, and transformative
experiences. Additionally, the motif of winter and the eventual arrival of spring symbolize the
restoration of hope, rebirth, and the triumph of good over evil.

3.3 Symbolism

"The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is rich in symbolism, enhancing the depth and meaning
of the story. The wardrobe symbolizes a threshold between reality and the magical world,
representing the transformative power of imagination and the capacity for extraordinary
experiences. Aslan symbolizes Christ-like attributes such as sacrifice, redemption, and
resurrection. The Stone Table symbolizes the ultimate test of faith and the triumph of good over
evil, signifying the pivotal moment in the story's resolution.

Chapter 4 : Themes

4.1 Key Themes

4.1.1 Good vs. Evil

The battle between the forces of good and evil is a central theme in the film, highlighting the
moral choices individuals must make in the face of temptation and oppression. It explores the
concepts of right and wrong, the consequences of one's actions, and the importance of standing
up against injustice.

4.1.2 Loyalty and Betrayal

The story delves into the consequences of loyalty and betrayal within relationships, emphasizing
the importance of trust, forgiveness, and redemption. It explores the complexities of human
nature and the potential for growth and change, even after making grave mistakes.

4.1.3 Redemption and Forgiveness

"The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" showcases the transformative power of redemption and
the capacity for forgiveness, even in the face of past wrongdoings. It emphasizes the importance
of personal growth, second chances, and the ability to overcome one's flaws and contribute to
positive change.

Chapter 5: Foil and Conflict

Lucy and Edmund serve as foils to each other. Their differing reactions and choices in Narnia highlight
their contrasting character traits, moral dilemmas, and personal growth.

5.1.1 Lucy

Lucy Pevensie embodies unwavering faith, trust, and a pure heart. From the moment she steps
into Narnia through the wardrobe, she wholeheartedly believes in the existence of the magical
world and its inhabitants. Lucy's innocence and open-mindedness allow her to form a deep
connection with Narnia and its inhabitants, particularly with the faun, Mr. Tumnus. Her
unwavering faith and trust in the goodness of others inspire those around her and serve as a
guiding light throughout their journey.
5.1.2 Edmund

Edmund Pevensie, on the other hand, initially succumbs to temptation and displays traits of
selfishness and deceit. Driven by his desire for power and recognition, Edmund is easily swayed
by the White Witch's manipulations. He betrays his siblings and aligns himself with the Witch,
endangering the entire mission to free Narnia from her tyranny. However, Edmund's journey
serves as a transformative arc, where he realizes the consequences of his actions and seeks
redemption. His transformation highlights the potential for growth and the capacity for change
within individuals.

5.2 Conflict
"The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" presents two significant conflicts that drive the
narrative and challenge the characters' resolve.

5.2.1 Internal Conflict (Edmund)

Edmund faces an internal conflict driven by his own desires, temptation, and lack of self-control.
Initially, he allows himself to be swayed by the White Witch's promises of power and authority,
betraying his siblings and endangering the mission to free Narnia. Edmund's internal conflict
revolves around his struggle with selfishness, the consequences of his choices, and his eventual
realization of the need for redemption and forgiveness. Through his journey, he learns the
importance of selflessness, loyalty, and the power of personal transformation.

5.2.2 External Conflict

The external conflict in "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" centers around the struggle
against the White Witch's oppressive rule and her minions. The Pevensie siblings and the
inhabitants of Narnia find themselves pitted against the Witch's forces, which seek to maintain
control over the land and eliminate anyone who opposes her. This external conflict manifests in
battles, quests, and the overall mission to overthrow the Witch and restore peace and harmony to
Narnia. The external conflict represents the larger battle between good and evil, where the
characters must overcome adversity and work together to achieve victory.

Chapter 6 : Climax

6.1 Aslan's Sacrificial Death

The climax of "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" revolves
around the profound and emotional moment of Aslan's sacrificial death.

6.1.1 The Prophecy Fulfilled

As the Pevensie siblings and their allies prepare for the final battle against the White Witch, they
come to learn of an ancient prophecy. It foretells that a willing victim, a son of Adam, will offer
their life in exchange for the treacherous Edmund, ensuring the defeat of the Witch's reign.

4.1.2 The Stone Table

Amidst the snowy landscape of Narnia, Aslan, the majestic lion and true ruler of the land,
willingly submits himself to the Witch's forces. He is taken to the Stone Table, a sacred place of
power. There, the Witch condemns him to death, asserting her authority and belief that she has
triumphed over good.

6.1.3 The Sacrifice

In a moment of profound selflessness and love, Aslan allows the Witch to carry out his
execution. The characters, filled with grief and despair, witness the heart-wrenching scene as the
Witch's minions mercilessly take Aslan's life. His noble sacrifice becomes a symbol of
redemption, love, and the triumph of good over evil.

6.1.4 The Impact

Aslan's sacrificial death leaves the characters and the audience devastated, yet it also ignites a
spark of hope and resilience within them. His sacrifice carries profound significance, not only in
the story but also in its allegorical representation. It symbolizes Christ-like attributes such as
sacrifice, redemption, and resurrection, showcasing the power of selflessness and the ultimate
victory of good over evil.

Chapter 7 : Resolution

7.1 The Ultimate Sacrifice and Triumph

The resolution of "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" brings
together the culmination of the characters' journeys and the triumph of good over evil. It is
through a series of selfless acts and sacrifices that the resolution unfolds.

7.1.1 Aslan's Sacrifice

At the climax of the story, Aslan, the majestic lion and true ruler of Narnia, willingly sacrifices
himself on the Stone Table. He offers his life as a substitution for Edmund, who had fallen under
the Witch's influence. Aslan's sacrificial act echoes themes of redemption and forgiveness,
showcasing his embodiment of Christ-like attributes. His sacrifice becomes the turning point in
the battle against the Witch and represents the ultimate act of love and selflessness.
7.1.2 The Defeat of the Witch

As a result of Aslan's sacrifice, the White Witch believes she has secured her victory. However,
she underestimates the deeper magic present in Narnia. When Aslan returns to life, he leads the
charge against the Witch's forces, resulting in her defeat. The triumph over the Witch represents
the victory of good over evil, highlighting the resilience and courage of the characters in the face
of adversity.

7.2 Personal Growth and Redemption

The resolution of the story goes beyond the defeat of the Witch. It encompasses the personal
growth, redemption, and transformation of the characters.

7.2.1 Edmund's Redemption

Edmund, who had initially succumbed to the Witch's temptations, undergoes a profound
transformation through his experiences in Narnia. After witnessing Aslan's sacrifice and
understanding the consequences of his actions, Edmund seeks redemption. He joins his siblings
in the battle against the Witch and plays a pivotal role in her defeat. Edmund's journey of
redemption emphasizes the capacity for change, forgiveness, and the importance of second
chances.

7.2.2 The Pevensie Siblings' Triumph

The resolution also highlights the growth and triumph of the Pevensie siblings as a collective
unit. Peter, Susan, Lucy, and Edmund each demonstrate courage, resilience, and leadership
throughout their journey in Narnia. They learn to trust one another, embrace their individual
strengths, and work together to overcome challenges. The resolution showcases their
development as individuals and their united effort in restoring peace and harmony to Narnia.

7.3 Restoration and Return

Following the defeat of the Witch and the personal growth of the characters, the resolution
encompasses the restoration of Narnia and the return of the Pevensie siblings to the real world.

7.3.1 Restoration of Peace

With the Witch defeated, Narnia is freed from her oppressive rule. The land begins to thaw, and
the perpetual winter gives way to the arrival of spring. The restoration of peace and harmony in
Narnia symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the renewal of hope.

7.3.2 Return to the Real World

After their transformative journey, the Pevensie siblings must bid farewell to Narnia. They return
to the real world, forever changed by their experiences. The resolution portrays their growth,
resilience, and the lessons they have learned, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Chapter 8 : Relevance to current era

8.1 Relevance

"The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" continues to be relevant in the current era. Its themes
of courage, sacrifice, standing up against oppression, and the triumph of good over evil resonate
with contemporary audiences. The enduring appeal of fantasy and escapism also provides a
means of exploration and a break from the realities of daily life. The film serves as a reminder of
the timeless moral lessons and values that are applicable in any era.
Chapter 9: Conclusion and Moral

9.1 Conclusion

"The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" invites audiences into a
world of magic, adventure, and profound moral lessons. The story's ultimate moral is the power
of love, redemption, and the triumph of good over evil. By embracing courage, loyalty,
forgiveness, and personal growth, individuals can overcome their flaws, contribute to positive
change, and restore harmony in their lives and the world around them.

By analyzing the various elements of characterization, setting, motifs, conflicts, and themes
within "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," we gain a deeper appreciation for its enduring
literary and cinematic significance. The film's ability to resonate with audiences across
generations is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the timeless moral lessons it
imparts. It serves as a reminder of the importance of virtues and the potential for personal growth
and redemption in the face of adversity.