“The Last Battle,” by C.S. Lewis is the enthralling finale of the Narnia book series. Carrying the typical enchanting, fantastical-style storytelling prominent in the series, “The Last Battle,” is about a corrupt Ape - who manages to manipulate all of Narnia, except the brave heroes. Every page of the book, readers are kept on the edge of their seats as the stakes grow higher and higher.
The book starts with an opening unlike the previous books - this story begins with an ape and a donkey. As the two navigate through the vivid scenery surrounding them, their personalities are established wonderfully. The use of contrasting themes between the two characters invokes deep emotions for the readers: pity for the donkey and hatred for the ape.
The author makes good use of suspense to add flavor to every scene. As the ape and donkey find a dead lion’s body, the ape’s twisted mind previously established leads to a devious plan that would sow chaos upon The Land of Narnia. The ape, poetically representing the devilish aspects of human nature, forces the poor donkey to act as Narnia’s god and manipulate every unknowing creature.
In the beginning, The Land of Narnia is represented differently from all the previous books. Quiet, humble, and peaceful. Emotive language painting the sight leaves readers solemn as they realize that Narnia is now not the powerful wonder it once was. The contrast of Narnia between all the previous books and this one helps solidify in the readers’ minds that this truly is the finale.
As the lionhearted cast of heroes is formed, a sense of familiarity lingers, as two of the main characters have been featured in previous books. Along with this familiarity is a sense of attachment, solidifying the readers’ anticipation on success. Though, success does not come very easily. The book is a great example of this concept.
Challenge after challenge is thrown upon Eustace, Jill, Jewel, Puzzle, and King Tirian. As a result, the cast forms bonds and the characters are developed naturally. The story becomes increasingly tense as it goes on, keeping the readers in a constant state of thrill and suspense. Several secrets are kept from the readers, producing mystery and wonder.
This book subtly hints at the corruption of human beings, showcasing how deceit and lies run in society smoothly. The contrast between the manipulators and the heroes is prominent, and showcases how sticking to what you believe in, rather than listening to others to appease them, will end up doing more justice. The worst one can do to themselves is to become a puppet for others to toy with. Despite the whole world seemingly turning against the main characters, they fight for what they believe in, because they are confident that what they know is right.
“The Last Battle,” is the perfect ending to the Narnia series, which has never failed to be magical and otherworldly. The morals of the story inspire the readers to believe for themselves and to not be deceived by those around them. The genuine characters are represented so beautifully and naturally, they feel real to the readers. This finale is a love letter to any reader who has enjoyed the series, and as sorrowful as it may be, the perfect goodbye to the wonderful Land of Narnia.
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