Ketterley, Andrew (Character) - The Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis

Introduction

Andrew Ketterley, often referred to as Uncle Andrew, is a pivotal and complex character in C.S. Lewis’s The Magician’s Nephew, the sixth published book in The Chronicles of Narnia series. He is the uncle of the protagonist, Digory Kirke, and plays a crucial role in the narrative by initiating the events that lead to the creation of Narnia. Ketterley’s origins are rooted in his family’s history, with claims of a magical heritage from his fairy godmother, which he uses to justify his own magical experiments^[3][5].

Ketterley’s defining traits include his self-aggrandizement, manipulative nature, and a pragmatic approach to magic that is more about proving his own abilities than achieving any benevolent goals. His character serves as a critique of utilitarianism and the misuse of power, reflecting broader literary traditions that caution against the dangers of unchecked ambition and the exploitation of others for personal gain.

Role in the Story

Uncle Andrew’s storyline begins in his study in London, where he has been dabbling in magic, particularly in the use of magical rings that allow travel between different worlds. He tricks his niece, Polly, into touching a yellow ring, causing her to vanish, and then blackmails Digory into following her using another yellow ring and two green rings for their return^[5].

This act sets off a chain of events as Digory and Polly find themselves in the "Wood between the Worlds," a liminal space connecting various universes. Here, they decide to explore another world and end up in the desolate city of Charn, where they awaken the evil witch queen Jadis. Jadis follows them back to London, causing chaos, and eventually, they all end up in the Wood between the Worlds again, where they inadvertently enter a new, uncreated world that Aslan is bringing into existence through his song^[2][5].

Throughout the story, Ketterley’s relationships with other characters are marked by manipulation and self-interest. He uses Digory and Polly as guinea pigs for his magical experiments and is dismissive of their well-being. His interactions with Jadis are particularly telling, as he is quickly overpowered and enslaved by her, highlighting his lack of true magical power and his cowardice^[3][5].

Character Analysis

Uncle Andrew’s personality is characterized by his arrogance, lack of bravery, and a tendency to prioritize his own desires over the welfare of others. He is a minor magician who overestimates his abilities and is more interested in the prestige and power that magic can bring rather than its actual application for good^[3].

His motivations are driven by a desire for recognition and wealth. When he encounters the newly created world of Narnia, he sees it as an opportunity for commercial exploitation, envisioning the potential for immense profit by bringing scrap iron into the world and watching it transform into valuable objects^[1][2].

Despite his flaws, Ketterley is a compelling character because he embodies the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of prioritizing personal gain over moral integrity. His character serves as a cautionary tale about the misuse of power and the importance of humility and respect for the natural order of things.

Themes and Symbolism

Uncle Andrew’s character is deeply intertwined with several themes in The Magician’s Nephew. He represents the theme of utilitarianism and the dangers of reducing complex and beautiful phenomena to mere utility. His reaction to Aslan’s creation of Narnia, where he sees only commercial possibilities, contrasts sharply with the wonder and awe experienced by the children and other characters^[1][2].

Ketterley also symbolizes the corrupting influence of power and the dangers of playing God. His experiments with magic and his treatment of others as mere subjects for his research highlight the ethical implications of scientific and magical pursuits without moral responsibility.

Furthermore, his character underscores the theme of redemption and personal growth. While Ketterley does not undergo a significant transformation within the book, his eventual realization of his own limitations and the consequences of his actions sets the stage for potential future growth, as hinted at by C.S. Lewis’s note that in his old age, Uncle Andrew became a nicer and less selfish person^[1][2].

Cultural Impact

Uncle Andrew’s character has had a significant cultural impact, particularly in how he reflects and critiques societal values. His portrayal as a self-aggrandizing, manipulative figure has resonated with readers as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the exploitation of others.

In adaptations and spin-offs, Uncle Andrew has been portrayed in various ways, but his core characteristics of arrogance and self-interest have remained consistent. His influence can be seen in other literary and media works that feature characters who embody similar traits, serving as a reminder of the importance of ethical behavior and respect for others.

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences have generally viewed Uncle Andrew as a well-crafted and memorable character. His role in the narrative has been praised for its thematic depth and the way it critiques modernistic tendencies and utilitarianism. However, some critics have noted that his character can come across as somewhat one-dimensional, serving primarily as a foil to the more heroic characters in the story^[1][2].

Despite this, his character has been widely recognized for its literary significance. C.S. Lewis’s ability to lampoon utilitarianism and modernistic tendencies through Uncle Andrew has been particularly commended, as it adds a layer of complexity to the narrative that appeals to both children and adult readers.

Legacy

Uncle Andrew’s enduring appeal lies in his ability to represent timeless themes and cautionary tales. His character continues to be relevant in contemporary discussions about ethics, power, and the responsible use of knowledge. He has inspired other works and character archetypes that explore similar themes, making him a lasting figure in the literary landscape.

His legacy also extends to the broader impact of The Chronicles of Narnia on popular culture. As a part of this beloved series, Uncle Andrew’s character has contributed to the rich tapestry of fantasy literature and continues to influence new generations of readers and writers.