Myth in C. S. Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia.

Abstract

The purpose of this BA thesis is to demonstrate to what extent C. S. Lewis’, J. R. R. Tolkien’s, and, to a lesser degree, the Inklings’ views on myth are represented in Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia. Firstly, an elaborate discussion was provided of the different views and their characteristics and focuses. The views of Tolkien have been compared to Lewis’ views. It is shown that both views are overall similar apart from minor differences in some characteristics and the focus. Then, The Chronicles of Narnia were juxtaposed to Lewis’ views on myth. It is shown that Lewis’ Chronicles are in accordance with his views. Lastly, the Chronicles have been examined in light of Tolkien’s and, to a lesser extent, the Inklings’ views. The conclusion of this discussion is that the Chronicles are in line with Tolkien’s views as well. In the end, it is shown that Lewis’ series contain characteristics of Lewis’ own views on myth and those of Tolkien and the Inklings.