In The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, four siblings, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy, are evacuated to the countryside during World War II and discover a magical land called Narnia inside a wardrobe. There, they encounter talking animals and mythological creatures and must help the majestic lion Aslan defeat the White Witch, who has cast Narnia into an eternal winter.

C. S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe enchants readers with its imaginative world and compelling narrative. Critics praise its rich allegory, memorable characters, and moral lessons. However, some find its Christian symbolism overt and character development lacking. Overall, it's heralded as a timeless, engaging fantasy suitable for all ages.

Readers who enjoy imaginative worlds, classic battles of good versus evil, and rich allegory will find The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis captivating. Fans of J. R. R. Tolkien's The Hobbit and J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone will appreciate its blend of fantasy, adventure, and moral lessons.

Fantastical / Adventurous / Mysterious / Inspirational / Heartwarming

**Lucy Pevensie**  
The youngest of the four Pevensie siblings, Lucy is the first to discover Narnia. Her curiosity and open-mindedness lead her to believe in the magical land and its inhabitants.

**Peter Pevensie**  
The oldest sibling, Peter displays natural leadership and courage. He often settles disputes among his siblings and leads them in their adventures in Narnia.

**Susan Pevensie**  
Second oldest, Susan is caring and practical but often hesitant about Narnia's adventures. She is protective of her siblings and seeks safety and comfort.

**Edmund Pevensie**  
Initially unlikeable and spiteful, Edmund undergoes significant development throughout the story. His journey in Narnia involves betrayal and eventual redemption.

**The White Witch**  
The main antagonist, also known as Jadis, she rules Narnia with fear and keeps it in eternal winter without Christmas. Her power relies on deceit and oppression.

**Aslan**  
A great lion and the rightful King of Narnia, Aslan returns to challenge the White Witch's rule. He represents good and justice and is a guide and protector for the Pevensie siblings.

**Old Professor**  
An elderly man who takes in the Pevensie children during World War II. He is wise and supports them in their belief in Narnia, suggesting he knows more about it than he reveals.

**Mrs. Macready**  
The Professor’s housekeeper, she is not fond of children and prefers them to stay out of her way, contrasting with the accepting nature of the Professor.

**Mr. Tumnus**  
A faun Lucy first meets in Narnia who, despite initial intentions to betray her, ultimately defies the Witch out of kindness and friendship.

**Mr. and Mrs. Beaver**  
Loyal allies of the Pevensie siblings, they provide assistance and information about Aslan and the White Witch, embodying the good inhabitants of Narnia.

**Dwarf**  
A servant of the White Witch, he drives her sledge and is malicious, but also displays occasional doubt about her power.

**Father Christmas**  
Returns to Narnia as the Witch’s magic weakens, providing gifts to the Pevensie children that help them in their struggle against the Witch.

**Maugrim**  
The chief of the White Witch’s secret police, a wolf who attacks Susan and is defeated by Peter.

**Anonymous Wolf**  
A follower of Maugrim, who reports to the Witch about Aslan’s return and is tasked with gathering forces to fight against Aslan.

**Giant Rumblebuffin**  
A giant restored to life by Aslan, who aids the escape from the White Witch’s castle by breaking down its gates.

- C. S. Lewis drew inspiration from three seemingly unrelated influences for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe: an image of a faun carrying an umbrella in a snowy wood, a Queen on a sledge, and a mighty lion.
- Although published first, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is the second book in the chronological order of the Narnia series.
- During its initial release, some critics were skeptical about the book due to its blend of Christian themes and fantasy elements; however, it has since become a beloved classic.

C. S. Lewis

Middle grade

Novel

The Chronicles of Narnia

Fiction

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Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-11

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Chapters 9-11 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 12-14

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Chapters 12-14 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 15-17

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Chapters 15-17 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Character Analysis

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Themes

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Themes

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The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Important Quotes

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The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Essay Topics

Teacher Introduction

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Before Reading

During Reading

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe During Reading

After Reading

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe After Reading

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Before You Read

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