The Value of Friendship Theme Analysis

Throughout The Last Battle, the value of friendship stands as a beacon of hope amidst the chaos engulfing Narnia. The bonds formed between the characters not only offer emotional support but also serve as the foundation for their resistance against the forces threatening to destroy Narnia. One of the relationships at the heart of the novel is between King Tirian and Jewel the unicorn. Tirian and Jewel have been friends for as long as either of them can remember and are always by one another’s side. When Tirian runs into trouble with the Calormenes early in the novel, Jewel helps him escape, and when Jewel is in trouble in combat, Tirian rushes to his side. Furthermore, when Jewel and Tirian are not in immediate danger, they provide one another with companionship and emotional support. Before the final battle, they each talk about how much the other means to them, which gives them the strength to face Rishda’s forces. In other words, friendship is not a light commitment in this novel, but rather a serious bond, which ties two individuals together for life.

Friendship is also the tool through which those on the wrong side of the battlefield are brought into Aslan’s good graces. For instance, Jill befriends Puzzle the donkey and informs him of the error of his ways. Because of Jill, Puzzle realizes that Shift only pretended to be his friend. Jill and the other Narnians show Puzzle what real friendship is by treating him with respect and aiding him whenever necessary. In sharp contrast to the friendships depicted on the Narnian side are the false bonds created by the Calormenes and doubters of Aslan. For instance, Rishda’s behavior in and out of battle demonstrates that he is only looking out for himself. He hardly cares when Ginger the cat goes missing, and he is willing to send his men to die as long as he gets power and vengeance in the end. In other words, Rishda is profoundly selfish, and, in the end, his selfishness is his downfall, as he ends up in the hands of Tash. Ultimately, through the portrayal of authentic friendships and their juxtaposition with superficial allegiances, Lewis illustrates that the value of true companionship is not merely in the comfort it provides but in its capacity to uplift individuals morally, emotionally, and spiritually.