What would Chesterton make of Susan? - Elizabeth Roy

What would Chesterton make of Susan?
Chronicles of Narnia Blog
Elizabeth Roy
4/19

In his writings, G,K. Chesterton repeatedly emphasizes the importance of the moral component in fairy tales. He says, in fact that much of morality and ethics can be learned through fairy tales. Lewis’ writing, particularly in The Chronicles of Narnia, is certainly no exception, as it has a strong moral component. Based on the strong moral themes of The Last Battle, I think it was a mistake for Lewis not to explain the reasons that Susan was not in Narnia. It is clear that it was not simply incidental that Susan was not on the train and did not go to Narnia. Peter says (gravely) that Susan is “no longer a friend of Narnia.” She has committed some sin significant enough that she is no longer a part of Narnia. But why does Lewis not explain what Susan has done wrong? Our goal is obviously supposed to be acting like Lucy, Peter, and the others, so why do we not get a warning about what Susan has done? According to Polly and Jill, she is interested in nothing but nylons, lipstick, and invitations. It is unclear what we are supposed to conclude from this. It seems that Susan has simply grown up. Or, she is in a difficult stage in her life (possibly as a teenager or a young adult) and the other females (Polly, Lucy, and Jill) are better off simply because they are not facing the same time period in their lives. Polly is much older than Susan, and Lucy and Jill appear to be significantly younger. If we can deduce anything from what Lewis says, it may be that Susan has become obsessively self-centered. Perhaps Susan is concerned only with appearances. Regardless, I feel that the story – and the readers – would have benefited from a little more explanation.