Arsheesh in The Chronicles of Narnia
Introduction
Arsheesh is a significant character in C.S. Lewis’s novel "The Horse and His Boy," which is part of the renowned series "The Chronicles of Narnia." He is a fisherman who lives in southern Calormen, a vast and harsh empire south of Narnia and Archenland. Arsheesh is notable for his role as the adoptive father of the main character, Shasta, although their relationship is marked by cruelty and neglect rather than love and care.
Arsheesh’s origins and backstory are intertwined with the broader narrative of the book. He is depicted as a harsh, violent, and greedy individual who treats Shasta poorly, reflecting the darker aspects of human nature and the societal hierarchies of Calormen [3][5].
Role in the Story
Arsheesh’s storyline is pivotal in the initial stages of "The Horse and His Boy." He is introduced as a poor fisherman who has taken in Shasta, a boy he found as a baby in a washed-up boat. However, Arsheesh’s treatment of Shasta is far from paternal; he overworks and beats Shasta when he is in a bad mood [1][2].
The narrative takes a significant turn when a Tarkaan, a Calormene nobleman, visits Arsheesh’s hut and demands hospitality. Arsheesh, recognizing the Tarkaan’s status, bows obsequiously and offers him the best of his meager provisions. During this visit, the Tarkaan expresses interest in buying Shasta as a slave, which Arsheesh pretends to object to but is actually negotiating for a higher price [2][3].
This event sets off the chain of events that leads to Shasta’s escape with Bree, the Tarkaan’s talking horse. Arsheesh’s actions, though driven by greed and a desire for material gain, inadvertently propel Shasta towards his true destiny and the adventure that unfolds in the story.
Character Analysis
Arsheesh’s personality is defined by his cruelty, greed, and obsequiousness towards those in higher social classes. He is a product of the harsh and hierarchical society of Calormen, where the lower classes are often treated with disdain and exploitation. Despite his cruel nature, Arsheesh plays a crucial role in Shasta’s early life, bringing him up healthy and strong, albeit in a loveless environment [3].
Arsheesh’s motivations are primarily driven by self-interest and a desire for financial gain. He has no qualms about selling Shasta into slavery, highlighting the lack of empathy and compassion in his character. This contrasts sharply with the compassionate and benevolent character of Aslan, who represents a higher moral authority in the story [4].
Despite his flaws, Arsheesh’s character serves to underscore the themes of neglect, abuse, and the consequences of a society that values material gain over human well-being. His presence in the narrative also highlights Shasta’s resilience and the transformative power of kindness and compassion, which Shasta experiences through his journey with Bree and other characters.
Themes and Symbolism
Arsheesh embodies several themes that are central to "The Horse and His Boy." One of the most significant themes is the contrast between the harsh, hierarchical society of Calormen and the more egalitarian and compassionate world of Narnia. Arsheesh’s behavior and the societal norms he adheres to symbolize the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of a system that prioritizes power and wealth over human dignity [3].
Another theme is the concept of fatherhood and what it means to be a good parent. Arsheesh’s failure as a father figure to Shasta is juxtaposed with the true fatherly love and care that Shasta eventually finds with King Lune, his biological father. This contrast underscores the importance of genuine love, care, and responsibility in parenting [3][5].
Cultural Impact
Arsheesh, as a character, has contributed to the broader cultural impact of "The Chronicles of Narnia." His portrayal as a cruel and greedy figure serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of empathy and compassion.
In adaptations and spin-offs, Arsheesh’s character has been depicted in various ways, often emphasizing his harsh treatment of Shasta and his role in setting off the events of the story. These portrayals have helped to reinforce the themes of the book and have made Arsheesh a memorable, if not likable, character in the Narnian universe.
Critical Reception
Critics and audiences have generally viewed Arsheesh as a necessary but unsympathetic character in the narrative. His cruelty and greed are seen as reflective of the darker elements of human society, and his role in the story is often praised for its realism and impact on the plot.
However, some critics have noted that Arsheesh’s character is somewhat one-dimensional, serving primarily to highlight the virtues of other characters like Shasta, Bree, and Aslan. Despite this, his presence is acknowledged as crucial to the development of the story and the themes it explores [2][3].
Legacy
Arsheesh’s legacy in "The Chronicles of Narnia" is that of a cautionary figure, illustrating the consequences of a life driven by greed and cruelty. His character has inspired discussions about parenting, societal hierarchies, and the importance of compassion and empathy.
In contemporary discussions, Arsheesh’s character can be seen as a reflection of ongoing issues such as child abuse, neglect, and the exploitation of the vulnerable. His portrayal serves as a reminder of the need for kindness, understanding, and responsible behavior towards others.
