How many of us have not tried (more than once) to enter our closet with the desire to find something magical on the other side, like what happened in Narnia, without knowing what it was all about… Christian propaganda?
It is no secret to say that C.S. Lewis, writer of the seven-book series The Chronicles of Narnia, was a devoted Christian; something he captured in his stories with elements of Christianity, analogies, and references, the same that stands out in Andrew Adamson’s films.
It is for this reason that Netflix’s announcement that Greta Gerwig will direct the two new Narnia projects has caused great discontent in social networks, because how is it that she, who stands out for her works with a feminist discourse as Barbie, Little Women, or Lady Bird, now will be involved in a production where religion, which promotes misogyny and is against abortion, is the protagonist.
Far from causing displeasure, we should think that the fact that Greta will be in charge of the films means that the story could take a 360-degree turn until we get something interesting, where all its essence and ideology are reflected. However, it will be something we will only see until they are released.
Now, there is nothing official to prove that Lewis’ objective with The Chronicles of Narnia was to promote Christianity per se since the plot can be understood without having a deep knowledge of the religion, although there are very clear elements that could confirm this theory.
Proof that Narnia is Christian Propaganda
Aslan Is Jesus Christ
That lion with great power in Narnia and that guides the brothers during their adventures, would be the representation of Jesus, since both sacrifice themselves for their own and resurrect, besides having the capacity to offer forgiveness and surrender.
Sin and Redemption
Throughout the movies, we can see scenes of surrender and negative acts, which in religion are considered ‘sins.’ A clear example is when Edmund Pevensie (Skandar Keynes) repents after betraying everyone, including his brothers, by making a pact with the White Witch (Tilda Swinton). Aslan, who would be Jesus Christ, grants him divine forgiveness.
The Creation and the Fall
Some books in the series, such as The Magician’s Nephew and The Horse and the Boy, explore the idea of creation and the fall, recalling the biblical narrative of Genesis. These writings present the story of how Narnia was created and how the entrance of evil and corruption affected the world. Sound familiar?
Sacrifice and Vicarious Redemption
Without a doubt, sacrifice and vicarious redemption, pillars of Christianity, can be seen in several moments of the saga. It is enough to remember the death of Aslan, who later resurrects, just as it happens with Jesus Christ: he sacrifices himself to save the human being from sin and then resurrects to remain at his father’s side.
Good and Evil
If there is one thing we can see over and over again in Narnia (and in Masses), it is the difference between good and evil. In Lewis’ world, it is represented by Aslan and The White Witch, which in religion is the spiritual battle between God and Satan.
Resurrection and Eternal Life
Prince Caspian is called to undertake a journey to the end of the world, a clear metaphor for death and eternal life. He is brought before Aslan, who grants him eternal life. In religion, the one who grants this power is God.
Faith and Trust in the Invisible
Trusting in a supreme being without knowing him is an essential part of Narnia since the brothers must follow his path and risk their lives, even before seeing Aslan, which is related to the purpose of trusting in God, a being that no one sees, but is perceptible.
Sacrificial Love
In the story, we can see several of the characters sacrifice their own lives for the love of their loved ones, no matter what. It is an action that you are taught in religion, to be able to give your life for others, as Jesus did.
Spiritual Rebirth
After each battle, Narnia recovers its peace and tranquility, but this also refers to spiritual rebirth, which is similar to the Christian idea of a new heaven and a new earth, in short, the final restoration.
The Divine Presence in Difficult Moments
Aslan, although he appears only a few times in the story, is also present at key moments. This being that everyone adores appears when they need him, he gives them confidence and strength to face battles that seem to be their end, the same role that God plays in religion.
This story was written in Spanish by Nayeli Párraga in Cultura Colectiva
