Kidrash Tarkaan is a significant character in C.S. Lewis’s novel The Horse and His Boy, part of The Chronicles of Narnia series. As the father of Aravis, the protagonist of the story, Kidrash Tarkaan represents the rigid and often oppressive societal structures of Calormen. His character is deeply rooted in the nobility of Calormen, highlighting the complexities of a hierarchical and patriarchal society.
Kidrash Tarkaan is described as a member of the ruling nobility, specifically a Tarkaan, which is a title of high rank in the Calormene Empire [4][2]. His lineage extends back to the Calormene god Tash, emphasizing his prestigious and influential position within Calormene society.
Kidrash Tarkaan’s role in the narrative is primarily through his relationship with his daughter, Aravis. The story begins with Aravis’s distress over her arranged marriage to Ahoshta Tarkaan, a man she despises. Kidrash Tarkaan, driven by his own ambitions and adherence to Calormene customs, insists on this marriage despite Aravis’s strong objections [1][4].
This decision sets off a chain of events as Aravis decides to escape her fate. She devises a plan to flee to Narnia with her talking horse, Hwin, after Hwin intervenes and prevents Aravis from attempting suicide in a desperate bid to avoid the marriage [1][4].
Throughout the novel, Kidrash Tarkaan’s actions and decisions are felt indirectly. His strict adherence to Calormene traditions and his disregard for Aravis’s feelings illustrate the oppressive nature of the Calormene society. This backdrop serves as a contrast to the more liberated and just society of Narnia, highlighting the themes of freedom, choice, and the struggle against oppressive regimes.
Kidrash Tarkaan’s character is defined by his rigid adherence to tradition and his role within the Calormene nobility. He is portrayed as a figure of authority who expects obedience and conformity from his family members. His decision to marry off Aravis to Ahoshta Tarkaan, despite her clear dissatisfaction, reflects his prioritization of social status and family honor over personal happiness and well-being.
Despite his significant influence on the plot, Kidrash Tarkaan remains a somewhat one-dimensional character, seen primarily through Aravis’s perspective. This limited view underscores his role as a symbol of the oppressive societal norms that Aravis and other characters must escape.
Kidrash Tarkaan’s character also highlights the flaws of a patriarchal society where women have limited choices and are often treated as commodities. His actions, though motivated by a desire to maintain family honor and status, demonstrate a lack of empathy and understanding for the emotional and psychological well-being of his daughter.
Kidrash Tarkaan embodies several key themes in The Horse and His Boy. He represents the oppressive nature of rigid societal structures and the dangers of unchecked patriarchal power. His insistence on Aravis’s marriage serves as a critique of arranged marriages and the lack of personal freedom in such societies.
Moreover, Kidrash Tarkaan’s character symbolizes the contrast between the oppressive Calormene Empire and the more just and free society of Narnia. This contrast is a recurring theme in The Chronicles of Narnia, where characters often navigate between different worlds with distinct moral and social landscapes.
Kidrash Tarkaan, as a character, has had a significant impact on the cultural perception of The Chronicles of Narnia. He is part of a broader narrative that critiques authoritarian regimes and highlights the importance of personal freedom and choice.
In adaptations and spin-offs, Kidrash Tarkaan’s character is often portrayed as a stern and unyielding figure, reinforcing his role as a symbol of oppressive authority. His presence in the story serves to underscore the themes of rebellion and the quest for freedom that are central to the narrative.
Critics and audiences have generally viewed Kidrash Tarkaan as a necessary figure in the narrative, highlighting the harsh realities of life in Calormen. His character has been praised for adding depth to the story by illustrating the complexities and challenges faced by characters like Aravis.
However, some critics have noted that Kidrash Tarkaan’s character is somewhat one-dimensional, serving primarily as a foil to Aravis’s journey rather than a fully fleshed-out character in his own right. This critique underscores the broader literary tradition of using secondary characters to highlight the main protagonist’s journey and struggles.
Kidrash Tarkaan’s legacy in The Chronicles of Narnia is that of a symbol of oppressive authority and the rigid societal norms that characters must navigate. His character continues to resonate with readers and audiences, particularly in discussions about personal freedom, choice, and the critique of patriarchal societies.
In contemporary discussions, Kidrash Tarkaan’s character remains relevant as a representation of the ongoing struggles against oppressive regimes and the importance of individual rights and freedoms. His role in The Horse and His Boy has inspired other works and character archetypes that explore similar themes of rebellion and the quest for freedom.
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