The Chronicles of Narnia primarily revolves around the Pevensie siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—who rise to prominence as the kings and queens of Narnia. Their journey begins in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, a classic fairy tale that showcases Lucy Pevensie’s accidental discovery of Narnia, leading to the subsequent arrival of her siblings. Guided by the majestic lion Aslan, they undertake a quest filled with bravery and honor to liberate Narnia from the oppressive rule of the White Witch.
C.S. Lewis offers a captivating twist on traditional storytelling by positioning the Pevensies as co-rulers, with Peter serving as the High King. The series portrays their reign as Narnia’s golden age, as they are celebrated as legendary figures upon each return to the land. However, with fresh adaptations on the horizon, such as Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Netflix film, there’s speculation about how these narratives might tackle the siblings’ de-aging during their departures from Narnia. As previous adaptations lacked the opportunity to explore this nuance, fans are eager to understand the significance and duration of their rule within the lore of Narnia.
When & How The Pevensies Became The Rulers Of Narnia
According To The Prophecy, The Pevensies Were Destined To Rule After Freeing Narnia
The Pevensies’ entrance into Narnia appears serendipitous, yet they arrive at a crucial juncture marked by prophecy. It is foretold that four children of Adam and Eve would overthrow the White Witch and ascend the thrones of Cair Paravel. Together, they play a vital role in ending the Long Winter, culminating in Aslan crowning them in the year 1000 of Narnian history. Although their rapid rise to power may seem abrupt, their pivotal significance within Narnian mythology makes this conclusion an organic fit for the saga.
The Pevensies Were Kings & Queens Of Narnia For 15 Years
The Golden Age Of Narnia Lasted For 15 Years — Before The Kings & Queens’ Sudden Disappearance
While the film adaptation of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe necessitated a time jump, the novel delves deeper into the Pevensies’ tenure, with The Horse and His Boy set during their reign. Over a span of 15 years, the Pevensies encounter remnants of the White Witch’s followers, with Peter engaging in a brief conflict against Giants. Additionally, they work to restore Narnia’s alliance with adjacent Archenland and navigate familial challenges, such as Susan’s suitor from Calormen.
This era represents a flourishing and serene chapter in Narnia’s history, with the Pevensies primarily occupied with governance alongside trusted advisors like the Beavers and Mr. Tumnus. They enact laws and navigate courtships, particularly for Susan and Lucy, which marks this period as a time of happiness and stability. The juxtaposition between this idyllic reign and the later mysterious disappearance of the Pevensies underscores the impact of their eventual departure.
Why The Pevensies’ Reign Ended & What Happened After
Once Again, The Pevensies Traversed Worlds By Accident
Now adults, the Pevensies embark on an adventure in pursuit of the elusive White Stag, a magical being believed to grant wishes. During this pursuit, circumstances lead them to become separated and ultimately discover the lamp-post— the gateway back to their world. Compelled by a mix of nostalgia and an innate draw to home, they traverse the wardrobe and revert to childhood, a transition that brings a touch of lightheartedness amid their unexpected return to the mundane.
The siblings would later navigate the challenges of adulthood after the turmoil of World War II, attending boarding school and reconnecting with their parents. This period coinciding with the year 1015 is recognized as the onset of Narnia’s Dark Age, marked by uncertainty as the Narnians yearn for their absent monarchs. Following a brief era of a tenuous dynasty—highlighted by the solitary figure of Queen Swanwhite II—anarchy eventually prevails until the Telmarines seize control, setting the stage for the events of Prince Caspian.
The golden years ushered in by the Pevensies were brief, serving as a mere prelude to their legendary status in Narnia’s annals. Despite their absence, the Pevensies’ legacy lingers, illustrating how their collective journey forged a memorable chapter in Narnian history. Ultimately, as noted in The Last Battle, humanity’s connection to Narnia endures with the understanding that the Pevensies were summoned during pivotal moments—revealing a land that thrived in their tenure yet faced challenges in their absence.