Susan Pevensie (Character) - The Chronicles of Narnia

Introduction

Susan Pevensie is a pivotal character in C. S. Lewis’s renowned series, The Chronicles of Narnia, first introduced in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Created by Lewis in 1950, Susan is the second eldest of the four Pevensie children and plays a significant role in the narrative as a maternal figure, a voice of reason, and a symbol of practicality and kindness.

Born in 1928, Susan is 12 years old when she enters the magical world of Narnia, along with her siblings Peter, Edmund, and Lucy, who are evacuated from London to escape the Nazi air raids during World War II ^[4][5]. Her character is deeply rooted in her practical and sensible nature, often finding herself at odds with the fantastical and unpredictable world of Narnia.

Role in the Story

Susan’s journey in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe begins when she and her siblings are sent to the countryside to live with Professor Digory Kirke. It is here that they discover the magical wardrobe that leads to Narnia. Initially skeptical of Lucy’s claims about Narnia, Susan eventually finds herself drawn into the world, where she must navigate its dangers and wonders.

In Narnia, Susan receives gifts from Father Christmas: a bow with arrows that never miss their target and a magical horn that summons aid when blown. Despite these gifts, Susan is advised to stay out of the battle, reflecting her more cautious and protective nature ^[2][4]. After the defeat of the White Witch, Susan is crowned as Queen Susan the Gentle, a title that reflects her kindness and gentle heart.

In subsequent books, such as Prince Caspian and The Horse and His Boy, Susan continues to play a crucial role, though her character evolves as she grows older. In Prince Caspian, she and her siblings are magically transported back to Narnia, where they must help Prince Caspian reclaim his throne. In The Horse and His Boy, Susan appears as an adult, though her role is less central to the main plot ^[4][5].

Character Analysis

Susan Pevensie is characterized by her practicality, sensibility, and maternal instincts. She often acts as a caretaker to her siblings, especially in the absence of their parents. This maternal role is evident in her cautious and protective behavior, as she prioritizes the well-being and safety of her family over adventurous pursuits ^[1][2].

Her personality is marked by a desire to grow up and assume adult responsibilities, which sometimes puts her at odds with the more imaginative and adventurous aspects of Narnia. Susan’s reluctance to accept the fantastical elements of Narnia stems from her expectation that the world should follow logical and predictable rules ^[1][2].

Despite her practical nature, Susan is kind, gentle, and tender-hearted. Her character serves as a balance to the more impulsive and adventurous traits of her siblings, particularly Lucy and Edmund. However, as she grows older, Susan’s character undergoes significant development, with some critics noting a more negative portrayal in later books, where she is depicted as becoming more worldly and less connected to the magical world of Narnia ^[5].

Themes and Symbolism

Susan Pevensie embodies several key themes and symbolic elements within The Chronicles of Narnia. She represents the theme of practicality and caution, often serving as the voice of reason in a world filled with magic and unpredictability. Her character also symbolizes the transition from childhood to adulthood, highlighting the challenges and changes that come with growing up.

In terms of elemental symbolism, while Susan is not directly associated with one of the four elements (water, earth, air, fire) in the same way as her siblings, her practical and nurturing nature aligns with earthy qualities, such as stability and care ^[3].

Cultural Impact

Susan Pevensie has had a significant cultural impact since her introduction in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. She has been portrayed in various adaptations, including films, television series, and stage productions. Her character has resonated with audiences, particularly young readers, who see in her a relatable figure navigating the complexities of growing up and facing extraordinary challenges.

However, Susan’s character has also been the subject of controversy, particularly in her later depiction in The Last Battle. C. S. Lewis’s decision to exclude Susan from entering Aslan’s country in the final book has been criticized by some as sexist and dismissive of her character’s development. Lewis himself addressed these criticisms, suggesting that Susan’s story was not yet over and that she might still find her way to Aslan’s country in her own time ^[4].

Critical Reception

The critical reception of Susan Pevensie has been varied. Many praise her as a strong, practical, and kind character who adds depth and realism to the narrative. However, her later portrayal has been criticized for being overly negative and dismissive of her earlier character development.

Critics have also analyzed Susan’s role in the context of feminist literature, with some arguing that her character represents a more traditional and conservative view of women’s roles, while others see her as a strong and independent figure ^[5].

Legacy

Susan Pevensie’s legacy in literature and popular culture is enduring. She remains one of the most memorable and relatable characters in The Chronicles of Narnia, symbolizing the complexities of growing up and the importance of practicality and kindness.

Her character has inspired other works and character archetypes, particularly in the realm of fantasy literature. The debate surrounding her later portrayal continues to be a topic of discussion among scholars and fans, ensuring her relevance in contemporary literary discussions.