Relationships
Which two animals host the children for their first full meal in Narnia?
Mr. and Mrs. Beaver.
Who is Aslan according to the Beavers’ explanation?
The great Lion, the true King of Narnia, and the one who will end the Witch’s reign.
What moral failing does Edmund display by sneaking away?
Disloyalty to family and pursuit of selfish desire.
What does the Stone Table symbolize in these chapters?
The Ancient Law, the Order of the World.
Definition: A formal announcement of what will happen in the future; a foretelling of events (Chapter 8).
Prophecy
What task do the Beavers say they must do immediately after dinner?
Leave quickly to meet Aslan at the Stone Table.
What new understanding of himself drives Edmund to seek the White Witch?
His desire for power and more Turkish Delight, combined with jealousy of Peter.
How do the Beavers show moral courage during the meal and planning?
They risk their lives to hide and guide the children.
What symbolic meaning does the frozen river carry?
The Witch’s power to paralyze nature and life.
Definition: Having a sly, secretive, or underhanded nature; deceitful in action or character (Chapter 9).
Cunning
Why do the Beavers trust the children when they first meet?
They have heard from Mr. Tumnus and believe the prophecy that two Sons of Adam and two Daughters of Eve will help defeat the Witch.
Why does hearing about Aslan’s name affect each child differently?
It stirs joy and courage in Peter, Susan, and Lucy, but guilt and fear in Edmund, reflecting their inner states.
What ethical principle underlies Mr. Beaver’s insistence on immediate departure rather than waiting for Edmund?
Protecting the greater mission and the prophecy outweighs one person’s convenience.
The lamp-post is briefly mentioned again. What larger idea does it represent in Narnia?
A beacon to find your world and the enduring light of hope.
Definition: A feeling or expression of scornful amusement; a mocking or contemptuous laugh (Chapter 9).
Jeer
How does Edmund’s relationship with his siblings change during these chapters?
When he secretly leaves to join the White Witch he is betraying their trust.
What does the Beavers’ allegiance to Aslan reveal about their identity in Narnian society?
They see themselves as subjects of the true King and members of the prophesied resistance.
How is temptation portrayed when Edmund approaches the Witch’s house?
He rationalizes betrayal through imagined rewards, showing moral weakness.
Why is the snowstorm significant when the group escapes the Beaver house?
It signifies the Witch’s attempts to hinder destiny and maintain eternal winter.
Definition: Something that foreshadows a future event, often seen as a sign of good or evil to come (Chapter 10).
Omen
What role does the prophecy about the four thrones at Cair Paravel play in shaping the Beavers’ relationship with the children?
It convinces them the children are destined to rule Narnia and lead the resistance against the Witch.
How do these chapters shape the children’s emerging identities as future rulers of Narnia?
They accept responsibilities beyond personal survival: they are preparing to act as leaders.
Explain how the prophecy itself functions as a moral guide for the characters’ decisions.
It frames the struggle as a fight for justice and rightful rule, shaping their sense of duty.
How does the mention of Aslan’s breath and spring thaw function symbolically?
It foreshadows renewal, rebirth and liberation.
Definition: Excessive or insatiable desire for wealth or possessions; extreme greed (Chapter 9).
Avarice