The Keys to the Chronicles: Unlocking the Symbols of C. S. Lewis's Narnia

by Marvin D. Hinten

Book Overview

Most readers of the C. S. Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia know that there is more there than meets the eye. Certain story elements have obvious duel meanings-a second layer below the surface-like the death and resurrection of Aslan the lion. But where does the name Aslan come from? What are other key Bible references in the Chronicles of Narnia? Did Lewis make up the names, or do they have a deeper meaning too? And do even Lewis's own personal feelings...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0805440283
• ISBN13: 9780805440287
• Release Date: October 2005
• Publisher: B&H Books
• Length: 117 Pages
• Weight: 0.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.6" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Mayra Calvani -- TCM REVIEWS

This is another one of the four great books being published by Broadman & Holman this autumn about C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia. Are you a fan of C.S. Lewis' fantasy stories? Have you ever wondered about the hidden meanings in The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe? What does "Aslan" mean and represent? In what way are the Narnia chronicles complex and religious in nature? This little book, written in a reader-friendly manner anybody can understand and enjoy, "unlocks" the riddles within the world of Narnia. The Chronicles of Narnia are children fantasy stories, yet they're so filled with allegories, symbolism and allusions that many scholarly books have been written on the subject. According to Hinten, these stories, as many other great children's stories like Alice and Wonderland and Huckleberry Finn, operate on two levels--one deceivingly simple for children, the other complex and sophisticated for adults, permeated with references to literature, Christianity, linguistics, mythology, and history. The book includes interesting quotes from Lewis about the creation of the Chronicles, especially about The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. At the end of the book there's a brief background about Lewis's life. This book is particularly helpful because, as Hinten, states, Lewis was one of the most allusive writers of the 20th century, but he was also very subtle, so his allusions are seldom overt and can go unnoticed by the average reader. Perfect for Lewis's fans and a must-buy for students, teachers and book clubs, The Keys to the Chronicles is a useful reference work that won't disappoint readers.

A passionate and scholarly work for every reader

I enjoyed reading this book of Marvin D. Hinten very much, in that he presented layers of meanings and allegories in "The Chronicles of Narnia" in a clear and simple yet accurate and scholarly way. With strong background and in-depth research on C.S. Lewis and The Chronicles, he showed a thoroughful works of study that was very convincing. I'm glad that I have this book to accompany "The Chronicles of Narnia", to help me enjoy more the beauty of this famous book.

Excellent

I was amazed as I read this work in the way author Marvin Hinton explains in simple terms the many hidden meanings in the writings of C.S. Lewis. In this work he explains how there is more than meets the eye in Mr.Lewis's writing and shares with the reader what is below the surface of many characters and events; such as the resurrection of Aslan the lion, but that is just the beginning of the many tid-bits that await you between these pages. Outstanding! How did Mr. Lewis come up with the names of his characters and what really is their significance and meaning? Is the Garden of Eden and the journey of mankind akin to what you are reading? Are there mystical and magical names and events, places and people intertwined with Biblical? You'll find out in this book. This is a very in-depth look into the symbols that Mr. Lewis used in his writing and certainly a must have for those who have asked these questions and more. You will find yourself turning pages to find out the answers to your questions. Very well done, easy to read and understand and very informative. Recommended for all serious C.S. Lewis fans. Shirley Johnson Senior Reviewer MidWest Book Review