Reading Corner: The Last Battle by C.S. Lewis
By Savannah Logan
The Last Battle, the seventh and final installment of C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia series, is a profound and deeply moving conclusion that brings the saga of Narnia to a powerful close. In this book, Lewis masterfully explores themes of truth, loyalty, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, presenting them in a way that resonates with both young readers and adults alike.
The story begins with a sense of foreboding, as Narnia faces its darkest hour. An ape named Shift, driven by greed and cunning, deceives a simple-minded donkey named Puzzle into wearing a lion’s skin, thus impersonating the great Aslan. This deception leads to a chain of events that plunges Narnia into confusion and despair. Shift, taking advantage of Puzzle’s disguise, manipulates the Narnians into believing that Aslan has returned and that he supports the alliance with the Calormenes, a neighboring nation with a dubious reputation. The once-peaceful land of Narnia is thrown into chaos, as tyranny and injustice take hold.
Amidst this turmoil, we are reintroduced to King Tirian, the last king of Narnia, who is both brave and noble, embodying the virtues that have long been associated with the true rulers of Narnia. With the help of Eustace Scrubb and Jill Pole, two children from our world who had previously visited Narnia, Tirian sets out to uncover the truth and rally those who remain loyal to Aslan. Their journey is fraught with danger, betrayal, and heartbreak, as they face enemies both known and hidden. The narrative builds toward the titular “last battle,” a confrontation that will determine the fate of Narnia forever.
What makes The Last Battle stand out is not just its engaging plot but also its philosophical and theological undertones. Lewis delves into the nature of belief and deception, highlighting how easily truth can be twisted and manipulated. The presence of false prophets, the challenge of discerning genuine faith, and the importance of staying true to one’s principles, even in the face of overwhelming opposition, are central themes that resonate throughout the book.
The characters are well-developed, with King Tirian standing out as a tragic yet heroic figure, embodying the spirit of Narnia’s past glories. Eustace and Jill, who have matured since their last adventures, play crucial roles, demonstrating courage, loyalty, and resourcefulness. Even the villains, such as Shift and the Calormene leader Rishda Tarkaan, are portrayed with a complexity that adds depth to the narrative, making the conflict more compelling.
The climax of the book is both breathtaking and poignant, as Narnia is brought to its ultimate end. Lewis does not shy away from depicting the sorrow and loss that accompany such an end, yet he simultaneously offers a vision of hope and renewal. The final chapters, set in Aslan’s Country, provide a powerful allegory for the afterlife and the Christian belief in the promise of a new creation. Here, Lewis’s narrative reaches its emotional zenith, offering readers a vision of a world where joy is eternal, and where the trials and tribulations of the old world are left behind.
The Last Battle is a fitting conclusion to the Chronicles of Narnia, encapsulating the series’ core messages of faith, redemption, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It is a book that challenges readers to reflect on their own beliefs, the nature of truth, and the power of hope. While the story is set in a fantastical world, its themes are universal and timeless, making it a valuable read for anyone, regardless of age.
In the end, The Last Battle leaves a lasting impression, not only as the closing chapter of a beloved series but as a profound exploration of the human condition and the eternal battle between darkness and light. C.S. Lewis’s masterful storytelling, combined with his deep philosophical insights, ensures that The Last Battle will remain a cherished classic for generations to come.
