In The Last Battle, the lion's skin symbolizes the perversion of truth and authority. Shift, an ape, discovers a lion's skin and persuades Puzzle, a simple and trusting donkey, to wear it. This deceitful act is designed to convince the Narnians that Puzzle is Aslan, the deity-like lion who rules over Narnia, thereby granting Shift manipulative control over the land. While Aslan's presence in Narnia traditionally symbolizes justice, divine wisdom, and redemption, the fraudulent use of his likeness represents the antithesis of these values. Shift's exploitation of the lion's skin illustrates the dangers of authority wielded by those who lack authenticity, showing how symbols of power can be misused to mislead and manipulate. This misuse of Aslan's likeness not only leads to the destruction of Narnia but also serves as a poignant critique of the ways individuals in power can use religious iconography as tools of deception.
The Lion’s Skin Quotes in The Last Battle
“You look wonderful, wonderful,” said the Ape. “If anyone saw you now, they’d think you were Aslan, the Great Lion, himself.”
“That would be dreadful,” said Puzzle.
“No it wouldn’t,” said Shift. “Everyone would do whatever you told them.”
“But I don’t want to tell them anything.”
“But you think of the good we could do!” said Shift. “You’d have me to advise you, you know. I’d think of sensible orders for you to give. And everyone would have to obey us, even the King himself. We would set everything right in Narnia.”