The Lion, the Witch and the Medieval
The Lion, the Witch and the MedievalThrough its incessant themes, intricate plot structures, heroic characters and mystical settings, the medieval era has made a lasting impression on the world of English literature. Considered as one of the richest periods in English literary history, this era's inestimable contributions to subsequent periods are clearly evident in several writings of the modern times. Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, two of the oldest works in English literature still remain as living testaments of the creativity and ingenuity that stemmed from this era. Both tales are penned with themes such as patriotism and bravery and characters with genuine heroism and chivalry; centuries later, those very forms and ideals remain just as important and applicable to the audience of today. They have all surpassed the vastness of time, now catering to a brand-new audience. This fact is certainly evident in C.S. Lewis' literary masterpiece, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Renowned as a prominent medievalist1, C.S. Lewis exemplifies his skill and versatility in a multitude of literary fields ranging from Christian apologetics, scholarly essays, poetry, science fiction, and even literary criticisms. Ho
The children's coronation-party is complete with gold and wine, just as a medieval ring-giver entertains his royal companions. "Peter, the oldest is a natural leader. Of these traditions, the Arthurian is probably the most important to our appreciation of Narnia. Medieval literature has bewitched and inspired every subsequent era with its matchless brilliance and conspicuously retains its relevance in this modern age. Lucy uses her cordial, a magical gift which she receives from Father Christmas, to heal the wounded following the battle with the Witch's troops. By the end of the novel, the reader is brought back, full-circle, as the children return home through the wardrobe and back to the normalcy of their old house. "Once there were four children whose names were Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy," Lewis begins the novel, inviting the reader, as if for a live-presentation (1). And I shall fulfil that purpose, / prove myself with a proud deed / or meet my death here in the mead-hall" ("Beowulf" 634-8). "Should I waste my time / With Fear? Whether pleasant or wild, / Fate must be put to the test," exclaims a courageous Sir Gawain when King Arthur's court lamented his situation ("Sir Gawain" 563-5). He paints his wonderland with medieval magic in every stroke of the quill; every page is adorned with a myriad of whimsical characters ranging from "[o]gres with monstrous teeth, and wolves, and bull-headed men; spirits of evil trees and poisonous plants" (Lewis 165). Yet in another medieval saga, Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, the hero leaves the security of his homeland in a quest to confront the Green Knight. "All seven of the stories4 are rich in Christian symbolism.
Common topics in this essay:
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Sir Gawain,
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Knight English,
Seek Lucy,
King Arthur,
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Beowulf Scandinavian,
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Acceptance Essays
