Why Was It Susan's Fault that She Could No Longer Enter Narnia?

Susan's Journey in The Chronicles of Narnia: In the beloved series of The Chronicles of Narnia, by C.S. Lewis, Susan Pevensie embodies a complex character whose struggles with belief and acceptance are deeply intertwined with her experiences during World War II.

Childhood in the Time of War

Susan's early years in the series are marked by the rigors of war. At around 12 years old, when she first enters Narnia, she has already experienced the hardships of being an older sister during wartime. By the time Lucy, Edmund, and Peter locate Narnia, Susan is no longer just a child but a young teenager grappling with the realities of war and the demands of life.

Susan's parents are both away, her father in the war, and her mother working to support the family. As the eldest daughter, Susan is the one who takes on the most responsibility, often at the expense of her childhood. She had no time for play or make-believe, focusing instead on the practical aspects of life. This is why, when Aslan was killed by the White Witch in 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,' Susan could not simply accept the miracle. She needed to understand, questioning how it was possible.

The Impact of Post-War England

Post-war England was a challenging environment for everyone, but Susan faced an additional burden. While Peter gets to attend school with the Professor and Edmund and Lucy are away again, Susan is isolated and sent to live with her parents in America. Here, she falls into a life of American teen culture, losing herself in the glamour and luxury. This time in her life is crucial, as it helps solidify her belief in Narnia or, in her case, causes her to abandon it.

During her time in America, Susan is part of the glitz and glam of teen life, which diverts her attention and interests. This isolation from her siblings and the world of Narnia means that when others are called to return to Narnia in 'The Last Battle,' Susan finds it increasingly difficult to remain connected to the realm.

A Doubting Thomas

Throughout her journey, Susan embodies C.S. Lewis's own struggles with doubt and faith. She is the "doubting Thomas" of the group, questioning and not easily accepting the miraculous. Her experiences, both in Narnia and back in the real world, shape her perspective. As she grows older, her role in Narnia diminishes as she finds herself more focused on teen dramas and lost in the American lifestyle.

When the others are called to the True Narnia after the train wreck, Aslan does not close the door on Susan. Instead, he states that when she is ready to be found, she will be. Susan's story, much like that of Aslan, involves growth and the realization of her true self. She is left to find herself once more, with Aslan's door never fully closed.

Reflection and Modern Significance

Susan's journey in The Chronicles of Narnia reflects the complexities of adolescence and the challenges of transitioning from childhood to adulthood. Her story resonates with readers today, offering insights into the struggles of maintaining faith and belief, especially in the face of adulthood and its challenges. Susan's character serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and accepting the world we live in, whether it be a fantastical realm or our own reality.

For those who read and analyze The Chronicles of Narnia, Susan's character provides a profound and relatable narrative about the process of growing up and questioning the world around us. Her story serves as a reminder of the resilience and the need for faith, not just in the characters of Narnia, but in our own lives.