The Chronicles of Narniaby C.S. Lewis is one of the most belovedkids' book series, but despite that, they have surprisingly been banned more than once. With themes such as growth, faith, childhood, family, and religion,The Chronicles of Narniatells a compelling story in a creative universe. The first three books inThe Chronicles of Narniawere adapted into movies, and it is worth noting thatThe Chronicles of Narniamovie franchise ended earlyfor various reasons. However, the popular children’s book series will get a second chance at an adaptation sinceGreta Gerwig is slated to run a newChronicles of Narniaadaptation on Netflix.
Asa very popular children’s series, it is inevitable that the books also have many critics:C.S. Lewis' books were so notorious that they have been banned twice since their publication in the 1950s. Of course,The Chronicles of Narniaare not the only books that have been banned—other popular children’s series, such asHarry Potter, also faced book bans. While it’s not a new phenomenon, as book bans still happen today, the reasoning in each case differs.
The Chronicles Of Narnia Books Were Banned In 1990 For Violence, Mysticism, & Gore
The Amount Of Violence & Gore In The Narnia Books Was Not Acceptable At The Time
AlthoughThe Chronicles of Narniais a suitable children’s book series, C.S. Lewis' works were nonethelessbanned in various schools across Howard County, Maryland, for “graphic violence, mysticism, and gore.“These days,The Chronicles of Narniais deemed relatively safe for children—Common Sense Mediaeven finds the film adaptation okay for children despite some violent scenes. There are many battles containing violence throughout the books, and in 1990, some adults deemed it inappropriate for children. However, the argument thatThe Chronicles of Narniais filled with “graphic violence, mysticism, and gore” is certainly a stretch.
C.S. Lewis' Books Were Also Banned In 2005 For Their Religious Symbolism
The Chronicles Of Narnia Were Criticized For Its Use Of Christian Themes
In 2005, many people protestedThe Chronicles of Narniaonce again, specifically because of the series' Christian themes. Although C.S. Lewis did not initially intend to include religion inThe Chronicles of Narnia, he later realized that many aspects of the books come across as Christian regardless. One of the most notable symbols is Aslan as Jesus Christ, but C.S. Lewis vehemently objected to this idea. However,in Florida, Americans United for the Separation of Church and State objected toThe Chronicles of Narniaafter then-governor Jeb Bush selected the first book for children to read,then actively campaigned to have it banned in schools.
It shows that literature is often subjective because no two interpretations are the same; literary analysis often does not consider or care for authorial intent.
Although many Christians resonate with C.S. Lewis' books, there are also Christians who think the opposite. They believeThe Chronicles of Narniabooksshould be censored because they purportedly embrace pagan themes and a heretical interpretation of Jesus/Aslan. It shows that literature is often subjective because no two interpretations are the same; literary analysis often does not consider or care for authorial intent.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
The Horse and His Boy
The Chronicles of Narnia
The Chronicles of Narniais a fantasy franchise based on the seven-book series written by C.S. Lewis between 1950 and 1956. The series is set in the magical world of Narnia, where children from our world are transported to fulfill prophecies, battle evil forces, and restore peace under the guidance of Aslan, a mystical lion. The franchise has seen multiple adaptations, including a BBC television series in the late 1980s, three major Hollywood films between 2005 and 2010, and an upcoming reboot by Netflix, which has generated significant anticipation. The franchise is beloved for its rich allegorical storytelling, blending Christian themes with epic fantasy elements.
