Aravis (Character) - The Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis

Introduction

Aravis, a pivotal character in C.S. Lewis’s novel The Horse and His Boy, is a young Tarkheena, or a female member of the ruling nobility of Calormen. Her origins are deeply rooted in the aristocratic society of Calormen, where she is the only daughter of Kidrash Tarkaan, a descendant of the god Tash ^[4].

Aravis’s backstory is marked by tragedy and hardship. Her mother died under unknown circumstances, and her older brother was killed in the western wars. Her father’s recent marriage to an unkind woman further complicates her already difficult home life. The final blow comes when her father announces her engagement to Ahoshta Tarkaan, a wealthy and loathsome courtier, prompting Aravis to consider suicide. However, her talking horse, Hwin, persuades her to flee to Narnia instead ^[4].

Aravis is defined by her bravery, intelligence, and loyalty. She is an accomplished storyteller, a skill honed through her noble upbringing, and is adept at riding horses and handling various outdoor skills ^[1][4]%. Her journey and character play a significant role in the narrative, connecting to broader literary traditions such as the strong female protagonists found in works like One Thousand and One Nights and possibly echoing elements of characters like Mulan ^[5].

Role in the Story

Aravis’s storyline is intertwined with that of Shasta, a young boy who is actually the lost prince of Archenland. Together, they embark on a perilous journey from Calormen to Narnia, aided by their talking horses, Hwin and Bree. Aravis flees to escape her arranged marriage, while Shasta seeks to find his true identity and home ^[2][4]%.

During their journey, Aravis and her companions overhear a plot by the Calormenes to invade Archenland and Narnia. This intelligence is crucial, and they must navigate through treacherous landscapes and evade capture to warn the nobles of Archenland. Along the way, Aravis meets her friend Lasaraleen, another Tarkheena, and together they explore the Tisroc’s palace, further uncovering the invasion plans ^[4].

Aravis’s relationships with other characters are pivotal. Her bond with Shasta evolves from initial disdain, given their different backgrounds, to deep respect and eventually love. Her interactions with Aslan, the lion, are significant as well; despite being accused of being unempathetic, Aravis learns valuable lessons about humility and empathy ^[5].

Character Analysis

Aravis is a complex and multifaceted character, embodying both admirable traits and flaws. She is intelligent, well-read, and educated, with a keen interest in outdoor activities such as archery, horse riding, and swimming ^[1]. Her bravery and loyalty are evident throughout her journey, as she never abandons her companions and takes responsibility for her mistakes ^[1].

However, Aravis also has flaws. Initially, she is portrayed as proud and somewhat self-centered, reflecting her aristocratic upbringing. Her decision to drug a slave to facilitate her escape highlights her lack of empathy at the beginning of her journey ^[5]. Yet, through her experiences and encounters, particularly with Aslan, Aravis undergoes significant character development, acquiring humility and sensitivity ^[4].

Aravis’s character is made compelling by her relatability and the depth of her emotional journey. Her transformation from a proud and somewhat isolated noblewoman to a humble and empathetic individual resonates with readers. Her ability to tell stories and her natural survival skills add to her charm and resourcefulness ^[1][4]%.

Themes and Symbolism

Aravis embodies several key themes in The Horse and His Boy. One of the most significant is the theme of transformation and personal growth. Through her journey, Aravis learns to let go of her pride and arrogance, embracing humility and empathy. This transformation is symbolic of the broader Christian themes in the book, where characters must confront their flaws and grow spiritually ^[4].

Another theme Aravis represents is the power of female agency and independence. Despite being from a patriarchal society, Aravis takes bold steps to control her own destiny, fleeing an unwanted marriage and navigating dangerous landscapes. This portrayal connects to broader literary traditions of strong female protagonists and reflects Lewis’s occasional forays into respecting female power and other cultures ^[5].

The character of Aravis also symbolizes the contrast between different cultures and societies. Her background in Calormen, with its strict social hierarchies and arranged marriages, contrasts sharply with the more egalitarian and free society of Narnia. This contrast highlights the themes of freedom, choice, and the importance of personal identity ^[2][4]%.

Cultural Impact

Aravis has had a significant cultural impact since her introduction in The Horse and His Boy. She is one of the few strong female characters in The Chronicles of Narnia, and her portrayal has been both praised and critiqued. Fans appreciate her bravery, intelligence, and the depth of her character development, while some critics argue that her transformation and the societal context in which she is placed reflect certain biases and limitations of Lewis’s time ^[5].

In adaptations and spin-offs, Aravis has been portrayed in various ways, often emphasizing her strength and independence. Her character has influenced other works of fantasy literature, particularly in the depiction of strong female protagonists who navigate complex societal norms and personal challenges.

Critical Reception

The critical reception of Aravis has been varied. On one hand, she is praised for her complexity and the depth of her character development. Critics appreciate how Lewis portrays her transformation from a proud noblewoman to a humble and empathetic individual. Her intelligence, bravery, and loyalty are often highlighted as positive attributes ^[1][4]%.

On the other hand, some critics argue that Aravis’s character is marred by certain biases. Her initial lack of empathy and her actions, such as drugging a slave, have been criticized. Additionally, the fact that she is not born into the "Sons of Adam" and "Daughters of Eve" group has led some to argue that Lewis’s work sometimes fails to fully respect and integrate characters from other cultures on an equal footing ^[5].

Legacy

Aravis’s enduring appeal lies in her multifaceted character and the significant role she plays in The Horse and His Boy. Her story resonates with readers due to its themes of personal growth, female agency, and cultural contrast. As a character, she has inspired other works of fantasy literature and continues to be a subject of discussion in contemporary literary analysis.

Aravis remains relevant in contemporary discussions about female empowerment, cultural identity, and personal transformation. Her character serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, humility, and the power of individual choice. As a part of The Chronicles of Narnia, Aravis continues to captivate audiences with her bravery, intelligence, and the compelling narrative of her journey.